Developing a core cardio-oncology nursing curriculum: the cardio-oncology nursing education programme

Background Cardio-oncology is a relatively new speciality that bridges oncology and cardiology to address patients’ multifaceted healthcare needs and the cardio-oncology nurse is central as part of the cardio-oncology care pathway. The International Cardio-Oncology Society (ICOS) Nursing Research Group undertook an international survey of learning needs in an assessment survey. The results from 329 respondents showed a strong desire to learn more about cardio-oncology and their interest in formal learning programs that would lead to certification.1 Purpose Based on the survey, the aim was to develop a core cardio-oncology nursing curriculum. Methodology A working group was established to explore the development of a curriculum, identify and agree content with the appropriate modules along with specific aims and objectives. The group also identified subject experts to create the content for each module. Results Based on this feedback, a core curriculum was developed in conjunction with a cancer center (Cardio-Oncology Nursing Education [CONE] Program). The CONE program consists of 20 modules covering all aspects of cardio-oncology nursing including cardiac medications and cardio-oncology, cardiotoxicity of targeted therapy, end-of-life care and patient education. 2 Each invited expert video-recorded their session and provided questions for their module. Conclusion With the risk of cardiotoxicity during and after cancer treatment, the main role of the cardio-oncology nurse is to recognise, assess, manage and treat any signs and symptoms of cardiovascular complications. Nurses working in cardio-oncology need to have the necessary knowledge and skills to manage this population as people survive cancer treatment and live with CVD and CONE aims to provide this knowledge and hopefully ultimately improve patient outcomes in cardio-oncology.