• A E Lewis.
• Inpatient Medical Oncology Unit, Cancer Center of the Greater Baltimore Medical Center in Maryland, USA.
• Oncol Nurs Forum. 1999 Jul 1; 26 (6): 1065-9.

Purpose/ObjectivesTo understand the necessity of providing a mechanism for staff bereavement that promotes stress reduction and enhances job longevity in the oncology nursing work environment and to describe the implementation of one such program.Data SourcesJournal articles and on-site resources.Data SynthesisPersonnel conflicts, job dissatisfaction, and workplace burnout caused by constant patient loss are common in oncology nursing. The work setting must offer support for staff to deal with these conflicts to prevent burnout and decrease dissatisfaction. This can foster a sense of understanding among colleagues and provide support mechanisms for closure and acceptance of perpetual patient loss.ConclusionConflicts, dissatisfaction, and other sources of burnout must be contained so that oncology nurses remain in their vital roles. The potential for long-term professional fulfillment and improved quality of nursing care for patients and their families is increased by implementation of support mechanisms.Implications For Nursing PracticeEducating colleagues about the multifaceted role of the oncology nurse can increase the staff's awareness of the need for support. Implementation of a program to reduce the stressors that oncology nurses encounter will encourage improved care delivery.

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