The RN Navigator functions as an advocate, interpreter, educator and counselor to department oncology patients; and has expertise in cancer case management. S/he coordinates patient care throughout the continuum in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team. The RN Navigator serves as a liaison throughout the facility and in the community regarding resources for individuals diagnosed with cancer.

Patient Care
* Demonstrates knowledge, skill, and coordination to provide nursing care and guidance to the cancer patient from initial diagnosis through survivorship.

* Performs functions of assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating care.

* Demonstrates a strong emphasis on rapid response and assessment for newly diagnosed patients.

* Responsible for outreach efforts to establish and maintain relationships with key staff; physicians, floor and office nurses, radiology, laboratory, social services, medical oncology and support staff.

* Demonstrates ability to interpret laboratory, imaging and other diagnostic data.

* Demonstrates extensive knowledge of Case Management concepts for chronic illnesses and treatment options.

* Supports the patient during difficult decision-making periods.

* Assists in coordination of end of life care for the patient and acts as a patient advocate.

* Implements corrective actions based on the recognition of patient's condition.

* Functions as part of the multi-disciplinary team to ensure continuity of care and concerns.

* Documents assessments, interventions and progress.

 
Communication
* Serves as a liaison throughout the facility and in the community regarding resources for individuals diagnosed with cancer.

* Assists patients in understanding their diagnosis, treatment options, and the resources available (educating eligible patients about appropriate clinical research studies and technologies).

 
Event Participation
* Participates in Cancer Center sponsored community health screenings and events.

 
Compliance/Safety
* Responsible for reporting any safety-related incident in a timely fashion through the Midas/RDE tool; attends all safety-related training programs; performs work in a safe manner; monitors work environment for possible safety issues and ensures others are also performing work in a safe manner.

* Stays current and complies with state and federal regulations/statutes and company policies that impact the employee's area of responsibility.

* If required for the position, ensures all certifications and/or licenses are up-to-date and valid prior to expiration dates.

* Completes all company mandatory modules and required job-specific training in the specified time frame.

* Access only the appropriate clinical information on patients she/he is navigating.

Education
Graduate from an Accredited School of Nursing- Required

RNs hired on or after 7/1/2016: Must graduate from a BSN program within 6 years of hire into an RN position.
Existing Staff RNs: RNs hired before 7/1/2016 are not mandated to have a BSN, but are encouraged to pursue a BSN degree.

MSN- Preferred

Certification & Licensures
Active, unrestricted, Arizona RN License or valid, participating compact license- Required

BLS (American Heart Assoc.)- Required

National Oncology Nursing Society Membership- Required within 1 year of hire

The following ONS certifications/education pertinent to clinical field of employment by December 31st of the year following date of hire.

Medical Oncology = OCN, AOCN or AOCNS – Preferred OR
Earn 12 cancer-related continuing education nursing contact hours per calendar year – Required

Breast Oncology = CBCN – Preferred OR
Earn 12 cancer-related continuing education nursing contact hours per calendar year – Required

Radiation Oncology = ONS/ONCC Radiation Therapy Certificate – Preferred OR
Earn 12 cancer-related continuing education nursing contact hours per calendar year - Required

Experience
3-5 years experience as an RN in Oncology field- Preferred

Healthcare is a rapidly changing environment and technology is integrated into almost all aspects of patient care. Computers and other electronic devices are utilized across the organization and throughout each department. Colleagues must have an understanding of computers, and competence in using computers and basic software programs.