Fall Into Better Health and Financial Practices

As the air turns crisper and we to move into autumn, it is important to remember to take care of both our physical health and our mental well-being. Although the flu shot might not be in the forefront of everybody’s mind this season, it remains vital that oncology nurses continue to receive their regular immunizations to keep themselves and their patients healthy and strong. Our Nurse’s Note addresses the importance of vaccinations for oncology nurses, and our feature story examines the ethical considerations of mandating the COVID-19 vaccine in health care spaces.

With the change of weather and holidays right around the corner, saving and spending become more top of mind. Our Medical Economics section offers insight into the holistic approach of applying positive psychology to financial planning to discover your unique blueprint for well-being in life.

As always, our Medical World News section keeps you up-to-date on the most relevant FDA approvals in oncology treatment. In this issue, we highlight belumosudil (Rezurock) and dostarlimab-gxly (Jemperli). In addition, in our Clinical Insights section, read about the latest updates in renal cell carcinoma and the importance of personalized screenings in breast cancer.

As oncology care continues to become more complex, the value of a nurse practitioner degree increases. Transitioning from RN to NP, however, can be difficult. In this issue’s APP column, Oncology Nursing News® takes a look at the hematology/oncology nurse practitioner fellowship at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center and how advanced practiced fellowship programs help provide the training that new nurse practitioners need to excel.

Amid seemingly endless change, one thing remains constant: the oncology nurse’s dedication to patients. In this issue, we recognize the accomplishments of 2 extraordinary nurses in our Oncology Nurse Champion section: Christina Kirk, RN, MSN, AOCNP, of UCI Health Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, and Amelia Mercer, BSN, RN, CBCN, OCN, of Rush University Cancer Center.

And finally, our cover story offers strategies that pediatric oncology nurses can use to help reduce fear and anxiety in children and adolescents with cancer. From explaining certain procedures involving medical equipment like a stethoscope to using play therapy or meditation techniques to calm emotions, oncology nurses play a pivotal role in anticipating and reducing stressors for this patient population.

As always, thank you for your service—and for reading.

Mike Hennessy Sr

Chairman and Founder

MJH Life Sciences™