Collaboration: developing each other's thinking
One hallmark of Dana-Farber is a multidisciplinary philosophy that brings various specialists and clinicians together to serve patients and share information on diseases and care. Craig Bunnell, M.D., a medical oncologist specializing in breast cancer, says the benefits of such collaboration are evident.
"We each have information or observations that we share, and this constant exchange of information helps us develop our thinking about what is best for a patient," Bunnell says of his relationship with Anne Elperin, N.P. "Having Anne here greatly improves accessibility and continuity for patients." Bunnell also relies on the input of infusion room nurses, who may see patients frequently and often provide up-to-date information on a patient's condition or state of mind.
"You have to be decisive based on your clinical skills and knowledge of treatment, but compassion can be the true foundation of the patient-nurse relationship."
— Libby Tracey, R.N., Ph.D., AOCN
How nurses interact with physicians and other team members has become increasingly important, notes Tracey. "The focus is no longer on traditional roles, but rather on what is the best outcome for patients and how we can make it happen together," she says.
The role of compassion
Nurses have been redefining themselves since the days of Florence Nightingale,
but one constant has been the nurses' role as compassionate healers.
"Compassion can be expressed in so many different ways," says Tracey, who studied the subject as part of her doctoral thesis. "If you look the patient in the eyes, hold a hand, and say, 'Here's what we're going to do together — tell us what you expect,' that helps form a long, caring relationship.
"That doesn't mean you don't remain objective," she adds. "You have to be decisive based on your clinical skills and knowledge of treatment, but compassion can be the true foundation of the patient-nurse relationship."
From her dual perspective, Sally Ryan comments, "As a patient, I think it is very important to have a nurse who listens to you, not just to what you're saying, but what you're not saying. I need someone to hear me and see me as a whole person."
Richard A. Cantor is known in several capacities at Dana-Farber: trustee, financial supporter (see page 23), and husband of a former patient — his late wife, Phyllis. He recalls how a nurse once described a complex procedure.
"In an overwhelming situation, the nurse was able to explain everything in a way that was both technically correct and understandable," Cantor recalls. "She demystified the procedure and gave us a sense of comfort."
From providing complex treatments to helping family members learn simple tasks, such as lifting a patient or touching someone in pain, Cantor says he often saw and appreciated the contribution of skilled nursing. "I know it may not change the nature of cancer cells," he says, "but that kind of care does make a difference in the overall experience and quality of life for patients and their families."
