The Acute Oncology team at Gateshead Health consists of three specialist nurses and two cancer care coordinators. Acute Oncology provides support to cancer patients who are hospitalised and are experiencing complications related to their cancer, treatment of side effects, or have recently been diagnosed.
This dedicated team is committed to enhancing the quality of care for various patient groups, including:
- Acutely unwell adult patients suspected of a new cancer diagnosis
- Acutely unwell adult patients undergoing systemic anti-cancer treatment/targeted therapies and/or radiotherapy
- Acutely unwell adult patients with a cancer diagnosis experiencing acute complications
The team’s primary focus is to ensure timely access to specialised oncology reviews and advice for all cancer patients facing cancer-related emergencies. We work carefully to facilitate crucial communication between our inpatient teams and patients’ oncologists at neighbouring trusts.
Moreover, we serve as the Clinical Nurse Specialists for patients diagnosed with cancer of unknown primary (CUP). This diagnosis can be particularly distressing for patients, and we provide them with nursing support during their treatment. In some cases, we also assist in transitioning patients into palliative or end-of-life care, based on prognosis and patient preferences, always prioritising the holistic needs of our patients.
The services also offer support to patients throughout their diagnostic journey, eventually transitioning them to the specialised tumour group oncology team for ongoing care when reaching a definite diagnosis.
Additionally, they manage a 24-hour advice line guided by the United Kingdom Oncology Nursing Society (UKONS) triage tool, enabling remote patient assessment and determining the most appropriate course of action, including managing symptoms at home. The chemotherapy day unit and Deteriorating Adult and Acute Response Team (DART) support our helpline outside regular working hours and during operational constraints.
Our team is available from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, Monday to Friday, and welcome any concerns regarding our patient groups and are dedicated to providing comprehensive care and support to our patients.
