Profession

Member Input: The Challenge of Staffing in Ambulatory Infusion Settings

nurse staffing models, nurse–patient ratios, chemotherapy staffing
CJON 2018, 22(2), 225-227. DOI: 10.1188/18.CJON.225-227

The Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) has conducted several member surveys that included questions about staffing but has not established nurse–patient ratios, given the number and complexity of variables that must be considered. The 2016 ONS member survey showed that staffing was the most frequently cited challenge in the practice setting. With the implementation of ONS Communities in 2017, members have the opportunity to network and connect about issues. Staffing in chemotherapy infusion centers has been a frequent topic.

AT A GLANCE

  • With the transition of treatments to the ambulatory setting, determining staffing has become a critical factor in developing ambulatory infusion and chemotherapy centers.
  • Results from the 2016 ONS member survey indicated that appropriate staffing levels are a pressing challenge for ONS members in practice. 
  • To date, no standard staffing model or nurse–patient ratio exist for ambulatory infusion and chemotherapy centers.
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