Describing the Value of Specialized Distance Education in Pediatric Oncology Nursing

Abstract

Working as specialists in a changing environment, advanced practice nurses in pediatric oncology (APN-POs) benefit from specific pediatric oncology education. The graduates of a pediatric nurse practitioner pro gram in pediatric oncology completed a survey about their educational experience and its impact on their current practice. This practitioner program included a subspecialty education in pediatric oncology and an early form of distance learning. The respondents' answers parallel a num ber of emerging themes in APN-PO practice and education. Employing distance learning methods in providing subspecialty education holds im portant implications for future APN-PO education and practice and for the health care of communities throughout the country.