The clinical nurse leader role in accreditation of a rural stem cell transplant center

Abstract

In 2020 the National Cancer Institute's annual estimation of newly diagnosed cancer cases was reported at 1,806,590, with 606,520 people expected to die from cancer during the year. In 2017, cancer was the second leading cause of death in the United States. Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant is an intervention used to manage and cure hematologic malignancies, extend life, and improve quality of life. A microsystem assessment was completed for a rural stem cell transplant center located in the western United States to better understand factors associated with deficiencies cited during accreditation renewal process. A Clinical Nurse Leader, certified in oncology nursing, is uniquely positioned to act as an expert clinician within the stem cell transplant center and support attainment of accreditation renewal. Eight accreditation priorities were identified through the microsystem assessment that fall within the expertise of the Clinical Nurse Leader. A color-coded scorecard was investigated, and a draft tool was adapted to link CNL competencies with accreditation standards and deficiencies. The proposed scorecard will help monitor client-based improvement measures and guide accreditation success.