Physician Extender at Cancercare SA

Job Purpose

To provide holistic patient-centred nursing care to oncology patients. The Physician Extender performs clinical assessments, assists in coordinating patient care, provides education and emotional support, and ensures compliance with professional standards, legislation, and Cancercare policies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform comprehensive patient history taking and physical assessments.
• Assess, implement, evaluate and document patient care plans.
• Monitor patients throughout treatment and promptly report abnormal findings.
• Provide patient education, counselling and telephone support regarding cancer treatment and symptom management.
• Perform nursing procedures within scope of practice, including wound care, injections and CVAD access and maintenance.
• Coordinate patient appointments, investigations and follow-up care.
• Assist doctors with clinical procedures and patient management.
• Maintain accurate electronic medical records and clinical documentation.
• Collaborate with the multidisciplinary healthcare team to ensure quality patient care.
• Promote patient safety through infection prevention, risk management and compliance with Occupational Health and Safety requirements.
• Participate in Continuous Quality Improvement initiatives.
• Ensure accurate billing, medical aid authorisations and stock control.
• Maintain professional competence through continuous learning and participation in unit academic activities.

Key Competencies

• Excellent clinical assessment skills
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Patient-centred approach to care
• Excellent organisational and time management skills
• Sound clinical judgement and problem-solving ability
• High level of professionalism and attention to detail
• Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team
• Computer literacy (Microsoft Office 365 and electronic medical records)
• Emotional resilience and integrity

Requirements

Minimum Requirements:

Required Minimum Education

• Diploma in Enrolled Nursing
• Current registration with the South African Nursing Council (SANC)
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification

Required Minimum Experience

• Minimum of 2 years' clinical nursing experience in an acute healthcare setting
• Oncology nursing experience will be advantageous