STATEMENT OF NEED/TARGET AUDIENCE

Medical oncology, particularly breast cancer, is one of the most rapidly advancing and developing fields of medicine. The constant emergence of new systemic agents, new indications for existing agents, novel therapies, clinical trials and research data demands that oncology nurses remain dedicated to continuing education in order to offer their patients the best care possible. This program provides nurses with access to the most up-to-date research developments in breast cancer and the opinions of oncology nurses and clinical investigators with experience and expertise in the field. This information can be effectively translated into everyday management decisions.

PURPOSE STATEMENT

To present the most current research developments in breast cancer and to provide the perspectives of medical oncologists and oncology nurses on the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer.

EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES FOR THIS ISSUE OF BREAST CANCER UPDATE  FOR NURSES

• Discuss the clinical implications of emerging clinical trial data in breast cancer, and apply this information to strategies in the (neo)adjuvant and metastatic settings.
• Evaluate the benefits and risks of endocrine therapy for the treatment of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, and integrate this information into clinical practice.
• Describe the benefits and risks of various chemotherapeutic agents and regimens in the adjuvant and metastatic settings, and discuss this information with patients.
• Counsel appropriately selected patients about the risks and benefits of biologic agents in the adjuvant and metastatic settings.
• Implement strategies, including supportive care measures and patient education, to minimize and manage toxicities secondary to systemic therapies.
• Determine the value of genetic assays and computerized risk models for predicting a patient’s risk of breast cancer recurrence and the benefit of adjuvant therapy.
• Explain the psychosocial and emotional needs of caregivers, patients and their loved ones, and prepare management strategies that encompass care for the patient as a whole.

ACCREDITATION STATEMENTS

This educational activity for 2.8 contact hours is provided by Research To Practice during the period of April 2008 through April 2009.

Research To Practice is an approved provider of continuing nursing education by the New Jersey State Nurses Association, Provider Number P215-01/07-10. NJSNA is accredited by the ANCC Commission on Accreditation.

Provider Approval is valid through January 31, 2010.

HOW TO USE THIS CNE ACTIVITY

This is an audio CNE program. This website contains CNE information, including learning objectives, faculty disclosures, a Post-test and an Educational Assessment and Credit Form, as well as links to relevant abstracts and full-text articles.

To receive credit, participants should read the learning objectives and faculty disclosures, listen to the audio program and complete the Post-test and Educational Assessment and Credit Form online. A statement of credit will be issued only upon completion of the Post-test, with a score of 70 percent or better, and the Educational Assessment and Credit Form. Your statement of credit will be mailed to you within three weeks or may be printed online.

This program is supported by educational grants from Abraxis BioScience, AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP, Genentech BioOncology and Genomic Health Inc.

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