Rose, Pauline, Roach, Michelle, Ngo, Diana, Pradhan, Anisha, Bailey, Eliza, Oataway, Kirsten, Barker, Sylvia, Buxton, Stacey, Hughes, Meg, Macleod, Paula, Jones, Karen, and McErlean, Gemma
Introduction In 2022 the Radiation Oncology Nurses (RON) Specialist Practice Network of the Cancer Nursing Society of Australia completed the first national workforce study of RONs in Australia. Objectives The qualitative component of the study describes responses by the RONs on a range of issues. This data aimed to provide information and personal reflection on topics such as satisfaction with their work, role components, work practices, departmental tasks, education, career progression, and opportunities for advancement. Methodology Researcher-initiated questions sought responses to aspects of the RON role in six distinct categories, plus further comments could be added. The questions explored consistencies, insight, and reflection from the attitudes and perspectives of RONs. Content analysis of the data resulted in seven groups of responses condensed into meaning units and further into codes and themes. Results A total of 140 RONs from both the public and private sectors provided 416 responses. The resultant themes included perceiving the RON role as personally rewarding and satisfying, being able to spend time with patients, providing holistic care, and making a positive difference to patients. RONs reported enjoyment of working with colleagues, autonomy in their work, and satisfaction with the outcomes of their nursing interventions. Conversely, many RONs felt that the role was often undervalued and misunderstood by nursing management and other health professionals. They perceived that many administrative, cleaning, and stock management tasks could be undertaken by other staff. The lack of formal RON education nationally was also considered an issue by many respondents, and career progression was further limited by the lack of opportunities. Conclusion This important study provided valuable insights into the RON role, and perceptions were generally positive. However, many responded that it was a waste of scarce nursing resources to undertake tasks that could be done by other staff. The lack of formal post-graduate RON education nationally was also an issue that many RONs would like to see addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]