Pediatric oncology nursing in Latin America and the Caribbean: scope of practice

Keywords

pediatric oncology - oncology nursing - scope of practice - guideline

Introduction: Cancer is one of the leading causes of death from disease in children and adolescents worldwide. In Latin America and the Caribbean, childhood and adolescent cancer care is highly heterogeneous, as health systems, resources, care processes, and health outcomes vary considerably among the different countries in the region. One of the main pillars of the CureAll Americas framework is strengthening centers of excellence and promoting training and good practices within the health workforce, especially among pediatric oncology nurses.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to identify, systematize, and consolidate available evidence on the scope of pediatric oncology nursing practice in Latin America and the Caribbean based on essential core competencies to incorporate them into clinical practice, teaching, and research.

Methods: A scoping review was undertaken following the JBI recommendations in order to find the best evidence for pediatric oncology nursing practice. Patient- and family-centered care and the conceptual model of competencies for teenagers and young adults with cancer, developed by the Teenage Cancer Trust, were used as the theoretical foundations for systematizing the recommendations.

Results: The process of creating competencies for nurses caring for adolescents and young people with cancer was based on six domains: 1) clinical and supportive care; 2) education and research; 3) engagement, advocacy, and promotion; 4) interprofessional team and the journey of the child or adolescent with cancer and their family; 5) leadership and professional development and 6) development of health services and policies.

Conclusions: This research compiles and systematizes recommendations to support pediatric oncology nursing practice centered on caring for children and adolescents with cancer, as well as their families. It can also be used by institutions, professional associations, managers, and public policymakers to help establish essential competencies for pediatric oncology nursing practice in Latin America and the Caribbean

Corresponding author: Luís Carlos Lopes-Júnior (e-mail: [e-mail]).

 

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No conflict of interest has been declared by the author(s).

Publication History

Article published online:
06 May 2025