. : New National Award to Recognize Oncology Nurses
Today as communities across Canada celebrate National Oncology Nursing Day through local events, Canadians everywhere are reminded of the critical role that oncology nurses play during all phases of cancer treatment and care.
To help commemorate today’s events and celebrations, the Canadian Association of Nurses in Oncology / Association canadienne des infirmières en oncologie (CANO/ACIO) is pleased to announce the creation of a new, national achievement award.
The Boehringer Ingelheim Oncology Nurse of the Year Award will recognize a CANO/ACIO nurse who hasconsistently demonstrated the highest level of nursing excellence and leadership. To reflect this year’s Oncology Nursing Day theme of “Partners in Care: Advocating for Excellence”, the criteria for the inaugural 2012 award will also place special emphasis on achievement in oncology advocacy.
The addition of Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd. as title sponsor of both Oncology Nursing Day 2012 and the new award highlights the significant role oncology nurses play in our health care system. Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd. believes the work that oncology nurses do on a daily basis is truly inspirational and makes a significant difference in the lives of Canadians with cancer, their loved ones and caregivers, yet they are often under-recognized.
Award nominees will be assessed by a panel of Canadian oncology nursing professionals, and the recipient will be given $5,000 towards their further education and professional development. The nomination process will begin in early May, and the winner will be announced at the CANO/ACIO national conference being held in Ottawa from October 11th to 14th, 2012.
“Our association and our members are honoured by the tremendous amount of support and recognition being shown for our 9th annual Oncology Nursing Day,” says Brenda Sabo, President of CANO/ACIO. “We want all Canadians to know that oncology nurses are advocates for excellence in cancer treatment and care. And while it is indeed satisfying that community leaders and healthcare professionals are taking note of our work, it is our hope that this recognition signifies a crucial understanding that a key component of a world-class health care system is the availability of nurses who specialize in delivering safe and effective oncology programs.”