About the Advanced Practice Nurses at Norris Cotton Cancer Center

What is an Advanced Practice Nurse?

An Advanced Practice Nurse is a registered nurse who has extra education and clinical training that focuses on medical assessment, diagnosis, and treatment within a health care specialty. Therefore, they have a nursing education with some elements of medical education. They also have extra training working with people of all ages who have cancer. In addition, they help patients and families make informed decisions about their healthcare and lifestyle.

View a list of Advanced Practice Nurses at Norris Cotton Cancer Center.

Advanced Practice Nurses must pass a state board exam to practice under their license granted by the State of New Hampshire. This allows them to practice independently at an advanced level under the laws and regulations set by the state. At the Cancer Center, all are certified by the Oncology Nursing Society.

What Services are Provided by Advanced Practice Nurses?

Your Advanced Practice Nurse does a variety of things for you, such as:

• Take your medical history and perform your physical exam
• Organize the treatment plan developed by your oncologist
• Order, perform, and interpret lab work, x-rays, and other tests
• Diagnose and treat medical conditions by prescribing medications or other treatments
• Explain cancer and its treatment and discuss your worries and concerns regarding your illness
• Teach healthy habits and lifestyles to promote quality of life
• Work with VNA/Hospice agencies for care at home
• Design and facilitate cancer support groups and educational programs
• Work with your doctor and other health care providers to give the best possible personal care for you and your family

What Do Advanced Practice Nurses Do Outside of the Clinic?

When your Advanced Practice Nurse is not in the clinic with patients, she/he is working to improve the specialty of oncology in many ways. You may see your Advanced Practice Nurse in:

• Outpatient clinics
• Hospices and nursing homes
• Hospital inpatient units
• Outreach clinics
• Cancer screening and early detection programs

They work to educate other health care professionals about cancer-related care. In addition, they do their own research and participate in research programs with physicians. Advanced Practice Nurses at the Cancer Center are also active legislatively to ensure your best interests are heard by the health care system.