As the ISNCC proudly marks its 40th anniversary of global collaboration, we recently hosted a transformative three-day virtual symposium from November 4th to 6th, 2024. This landmark event brought together experts and practitioners from around the world to share their insights and experiences in cancer care.
We are thrilled to present reflections from three of our esteemed members who participated in this momentous occasion. Let's hear from them about their experiences and key takeaways from the symposium.
Participant 1: Airong LU, RN, MSN, Cancer Hospital of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China.
The workshop provided a comprehensive overview of quality improvement, covering essential topics such as SMART goal setting, problem identification, solution testing, and data measurement.It was designed to equip participants with practical tools and methods for implementing quality improvements effectively.
A significant takeaway was the emphasis on creating diverse teams. We learned that team composition should include not only professionals but also patients, families, caregivers, and partners, incorporating a variety of skills, backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives. This holistic approach enhances the effectiveness of quality improvement efforts.The workshop also highlighted practical applications, such as using the IAP2 spectrum for public participation and SMART goals to address nursing adverse events. By identifying specific goals and employing model improvement methods, we can uncover root causes and test solutions. Data measurement allows for monitoring progress and adjusting strategies based on feedback.
The interactive nature of the workshop, featuring sharing sessions and activities, demonstrated how rapid testing and improvement cycles can lead to significant advancements in quality improvement. Overall, it was an enlightening experience that provided valuable practical knowledge.
Participant 2: Doris Machaki, RN, MSN, Aga Khan University- School of Nursing and Midwifery / Oncology Nursing Society of Kenya, Kenya.
Participating as an awardee in this year's virtual symposium was an enlightening experience, despite the late-night hours due to the time difference. The event offered profound insights into the role of oncology nursing and emphasized the significance of patient-reported outcomes (PRO). It became clear that unreported symptoms can lead to unnecessary distress for patients, underlining the critical role of therapeutic communication in oncology care.
Key discussions included quality improvement strategies like root cause analysis and innovations in cancer literacy, crucial for enhancing patient outcomes. The second day shed light on ageism in oncology, revealing the necessity for inclusivity in healthcare. This prompted a commitment to advocate for equitable treatment for all patients, irrespective of age.
Moreover, the symposium highlighted Kenya's progress in cancer literacy through communication guidelines and efforts in pediatric palliative care, demonstrating the importance of continuous education and advocacy. This experience reinforced my dedication to improving cancer care and patient inclusivity in our healthcare systems.
Participant 3: Hoang Thu Phuong, RN, General Medical Oncology Department in Hanoi Oncology Hospital, Vietnam.
The 3-day virtual symposium was an inspiring experience, covering key topics such as Quality Improvement, Supporting System Change, and Reducing the Burden of Advanced Disease. The sessions provided valuable insights into the latest advancements in cancer care, demonstrating practical approaches to improve care quality, enhance patients’ quality of life, and develop innovative support strategies.
I was particularly inspired by the global collaboration displayed by nurses around the world, embodying the spirit of “Leave No One Behind.” ISNCC’s efforts to support cancer nurses from LMIC regions to engage in international conferences play a crucial role in fostering health system development.
A standout was the presentation by Professor Winnie So and Associate Professor Dorothy Chan, who introduced evidence-based tools for early cervical cancer detection. Their culturally sensitive communication strategies, including guidebooks, were especially relevant to overcoming barriers in Eastern contexts. I hope to develop similar tools and expand electronic communication systems to promote early cancer detection in my country and beyond.
