Nurses delivering compassionate care to patients affected by cancer

Across Monash Health, thousands of nurses provide compassionate, expert care to people affected by cancer. 

The nurses have a profound impact on the patients’ experience, from diagnosis, through treatment, recovery and beyond.

They work in a variety of roles, as Managers, Nurse Practitioners, Registered Nurses and Reseach Nurses to name but a few.

They provide care at locations including Moorabbin Hospital, Monash Medical Centre, Casey Hospital, in the community and in the home.

Today, we spotlight the work of the dedicated nursing team in the paediatric Day Oncology Unit on Reef ward at Monash Children’s Hospital Cancer Centre in Clayton.

Every day they work to create a friendly, safe, and comfortable environment for infants, children and adolescents undergoing treatment and their families.

They administer therapies, co-ordinate care, help manage symptoms and provide patients and their families with education and support.

Nurse Practitioner Kate Vandenberg is the cancer centre’s longest serving nurse.

 ‘It is an incredibly rewarding career, because we get to look after the patients and their families during one of the most challenging experiences of their life,’ said Kate.

 Cancer care is always evolving, making it an exciting area of specialization.

 ‘The field is so dynamic and progressive. There is a lot of research opportunities, and we are able to make a difference with the patient outcomes and their quality of life.’

Graduate Nurse Sarah Seddon applied for a rotation in the cancer centre having been exposed to the environment as a Registered Undergraduate Student of Nursing (RUSON).

‘We are part of such a big multidisciplinary team, including doctors, child life therapists, dieticians, and music therapist. It is great to be a part of,’ said Sarah.

‘I am inspired by the courage and resilience of the kids.’

‘I just show up every day and try and be as present as I can with these families.’

‘If I can put a smile on a kid’s face, if that is by being silly, or making a joke, or singing a song with them, I feel pretty happy at the end of a day.’

We applaud the skill of all our nurses who walk alongside patients with cancer and their families during immensely challenging times. 

We celebrate their knowledge and marvel at their strength.

We, along with the patients and families, are deeply grateful for the care they provide.