A cancer clinical nurse specialist (CNS) is a qualified nurse, who has specialist skills and knowledge related to a specific type of tumour or specialty, for example in colorectal cancers, palliative care or oncology.
CNSs work as part of a multidisciplinary team (MDT) which manages and delivers diagnostics and treatment.
This team includes tumour site-specific consultants and other specialist staff alongside the CNS.
The CNS’ primary role is to provide specialist support to patients and their family or carers from the time of diagnosis. This may include:
- identifying patients’ needs and concerns through a holistic needs assessment
- creating a care plan
- discussing treatment options
- providing verbal and written information
- managing effects of treatment
- advanced communication skills
- managing distress and other psychological reactions
- providing on-going support throughout the treatment pathway.
All CNSs manage and deliver complex personalised care and support to patients at every stage of the cancer pathway. Some CNSs run nurse-led clinics, for example post-surgery checks or follow-up.
The CNS role has become more diverse over time. To support clinicians and oncologists and increase productivity, other senior specialist nurse roles have developed, such as consultant nurses and advanced nurse practitioners.
Watch our videos to find out more being a CNS.
