Breast Care Nurse Practicum

The Breast Care Nurse Practicum (BCNP) is an initiative of the Westmead Breast Cancer Institute (NSWBCI) in collaboration with The College of Nursing. The BCNP program incorporates the Specialist Breast Nurse Competency Standards recommended by the National Breast Cancer Centre 2005.

Westmead BCI uses a multidisciplinary approach to decision making, support and care, implemented through partnerships with relevant specialists, individuals and organisations.

The clinical program is conducted over one week at Westmead BCI to provide registered nurses who are caring for women with breast cancer access to multi-specialty health professionals, information and state of the art coordinated care. Participants are provided with a study workbook, resources and a certificate of attendance.

The practicum provides professional development for breast care nurses or the specialist breast nurse.

Program outlines:

• Diagnostic and assessment procedures
• Patient centred, multidisciplinary approach to treatment, care and support
• Attendance at patient clinics and specific treatments (XRT, surgery, chemotherapy)
• Care coordination of patients with specific conditions such as seromas, lymphoedema, wounds and ongoing treatments
• Role of the Specialist Breast Nurse and the 5 Domains of of Practice
• Assessment and treatment of Oncological emergencies.