Status of pediatric oncology nurses to achieve global standards: the sample of Türkiye

Abstract

Objective: This study’s purpose is to investigate the achievement of baseline standards for pediatric oncology nursing care in Türkiye. Materials and Methods: The research was carried out with nurse administrators in 41 pediatric oncology clinics between March and May 2022. Data were collected by an 'Information Form' and ‘Baseline Standards for Pediatric Oncology Nursing Care’. Results: Most of the clinics did not meet the first standard related to staffing based on patient acuity. It was found that 80.5% of the clinics that applied formalized education in pediatric oncology clinics, and they met the second standard related to formalized orientation. Most of the clinics (92.7%) had continuing education and training and they met the third standard. Most of the clinics (82.9%) met the fourth standard related to multidisciplinary teamwork. Nearly half of the clinics met the fifth and sixth standards. Conclusion: It was revealed that there are not many specialist nurses working in the clinics, that the nurse-to-patient ratio is relatively high, and nurses do not receive sufficient financial support for research. Institutions and societies must create strategies that specify pediatric oncology nurses to the achievement of baseline standards.