Trends and tasks in oncology nursing in japan

Abstract

Progress in the treatment of cancer has been outstanding, and a nationwide strategic effort has succeeded dramatically, contributing to the early detection of cancer and improving survival rates. However, cancer is still the number one cause of death and is feared as a fatal disease. Problems exist with telling people they have cancer and with providing psychological care. Since cancer treatment itself is so destructive, the role of nursing plays a big part in improving the patient's quality of life. Rapid progress has been made recently in the ability of nurses to take a specialized role in cancer treatment. We can mention, in particular, the role the Japan Oncology Nurses Association has played in bridging the span between clinical work and education, the preference shown to cancer research contributing to progress in nursing research, and the establishment of oncology nursing as a certified specialty and as a specialized field within nursing. Taking this wide view into account, we would like to define future tasks for oncology nursing. © 2001, Japanese Society of National Medical Services. All rights reserved.