Early Phase Licensed Practical Research Nurse

Tennessee Oncology, one of the nation's largest, community-based cancer care specialists, is home to one of the leading clinical trial networks in the country. Established 1976 in Nashville, Tennessee Oncology's mission remains unchanged: To provide access to high-quality cancer care and the expertise of clinical research for all patients, at convenient locations within their community and close to their home. Our growing network of physicians and locations is based on this mission. Tennessee Oncology is committed to advancing both the science of detection and targeted treatments, and to making these advances available to every patient. We believe caring for cancer patients is a privilege.

Why Join Us? We are looking for talented and highly-motivated individuals who demonstrate a natural desire to support the meaningful work of community oncologists and the patients we serve.

Job Description:

A research clinical position providing patients with direct safe, quality care throughout their treatment and disease process under the direction of the MD or NP/PA (provider) and or the oversight of a direct supervisor.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Measures patient height, weight, and vital signs.
• Reviews and verifies research con-medication log for accuracy and enters updates in the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) at each encounter.
• Reviews health histories and other assigned historical information with the patient since the last visit and updates in the EMR at each encounter.
• Completes all required research questionnaires and enters data in the EMR if required.
• Assists with research telephone triage by screening Monday Board messages and returns phone calls at the direction of the provider under supervision adhering to approved protocols/ decision making trees/ algorithms.
• Assists with provider performed procedures/exams/acts as a chaperone (i.e., bone marrow biopsies, skin biopsies, etc.)
• Manages IV therapy access devices per TO policy, procedure, standards, including accessing and deaccessing implanted ports, after competency validation, under the supervision of a RN.
• Assists in the treatment room with research patient port access, intravenous access, vital signs, ECGs, research lab kits and comfort rounds, assigning/cleaning chairs, etc.
• Conduct and coordinate pharmacokinetic studies, including the collection of biological samples such as blood, urine, and saliva for pharmacokinetic analysis.
• Label, receive and process samples (blood, urine, tissue ect.) for clinical trials per specific protocol guidelines to include logging samples into and out of the department.
• Accesses and flushes research patient implanted ports, after competency validation, under supervision
• Collects research laboratory specimens (blood, urine, sputum. nasal/oral swabs after competency validation
• Maintains required certification in Good Clinical Practice, Human Subjects Protections, and biological shipping training.
• Monitor and ensure patient compliance with investigation medications, providing education and support as needed.
• Verifies accuracy of or works collaboratively with front office staff to schedule research appointments and or arrange referrals at the direction of a provider under supervision.
• Stocks exam rooms, treatment room and other clinical areas to meet daily needs.
• Prepares and maintains supplies and equipment for clinic.
• Informs direct supervisor of clinic needs and concerns related to the work environment.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary team, including researchers, clinicians, and pathologists to ensure efficient operations and high-quality research output.
• Participates on committees as requested.
• Attends all mandatory in-services and meetings.
• Completes all required/assigned training, continuing education, and competency validations on time.
• Adheres consistently with TO and GHCR policies, procedures, standards.
• Consistently role models TO code of conduct, mission, and values
• Performs other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of medical terminology and anatomy.
• Familiarity with research, oncology regulations, policies, and functions
• Knowledge of equipment, supplies, and materials needed for medical treatment.
• Understanding of basic laboratory procedures including preparation and screening.
• Knowledge of infectious disease management and control and safety standards.
• Skills in reading and following written and verbal medical orders.
• Skill in handling several tasks simultaneously.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers and patients' population.
• Always communicates positively and constructively.
• Demonstrates a respectful and professional manner while maintaining confidentiality.
• Ability to empathize with patients and families and deal with grief and difficult patient interactions.
• Ability to collaborate with health care team to provide care for each patient.
• Ability to cope with death and dying.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Current state LPN License.
• Oncology experience in an outpatient facility preferred.
• Research experience preferred.
• Minimum of one year LPN experience required. May be waived with the approval of the EDONS
• ONS Oncology Basics (introduction) chemotherapy course required within 6 months of hire then every two years.
• Current TO approved BLS provider card.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Physical Activity Required

Amount of time

None

Less than 1/3
(Occasionally)

1/3 to 2/3
(Frequently)

More than 2/3
(Regularly)

Standing

X

Walking

X

Sitting

X

Fingering or manual dexterity

X

Repetitive finger motion

X

Lifting or exerting force

Up to 50 pounds

X

Reaching or stretching

X

Climbing or balancing

X

Crouching or stooping

X

Speaking

X

Hearing

X

Seeing (with correction)

X