de Souza Institute celebrates oncology nursing day by launching "Become a de Souza Nurse" campaign

TORONTO, April 3, 2012 /CNW/ - de Souza Institute, an innovative centre of learning dedicated to improving cancer care by supporting excellence in oncology nursing, today launched the "Become a de Souza Nurse" campaign where several nurses caring for patients living with cancer share their incredible stories. Stories shared by the nurses range from personal experience to patient's experience.

"I was diagnosed with cancer. I think that people diagnosed with cancer deserve the best care that a nurse can give." said Nicole a nurse at Health Science North in Sudbury, Ontario.

All the nurses in the campaign are studying or have studied at de Souza Institute. In the campaign video nurses reveal how de Souza education has improved quality of care for patients.

"de Souza Institute has taught us how to manage (chemotherapy side-effects) much, much better." said Inara a nurse at the Ottawa Hospital in Ottawa, Ontario.

To date, over 4000 nurses have participated in de Souza Institute courses and workshops. In just over four years, the Institute has resulted in a 40 percent increase in nurses achieving specialized certification in oncology and hospice palliative care.

"I've heard from many students that they feel empowered and confident after taking courses at de Souza Institute." said Dr. Mary Jane Esplen, Director of de Souza Institute "Courses focus on caring for the patient whether it is pain management or psycho-social needs."

The demand for nurses with specialized skills in cancer care is continuing to grow. Over the next 10 years, Ontario will see a 40 percent increase in the number of people living with cancer. de Souza Institute is helping Ontario to manage this demand.

To hear Nicole and Inara's story and others, visit www.desouzanurse.ca/our-story

About de Souza

Established in 2008, de Souza Institute in partnership with the Princess Margaret Hospital, University Health Network, Cancer Care Ontario and funded by Ontario's Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, provides ongoing educational support, professional development and career counseling to Ontario nurses caring for cancer patients and families.

de Souza Institute is providing nursing excellence by: delivering innovative continuing education and mentorship programs; helping nurses to achieve national certification; funding graduate scholarships to develop tomorrow's leaders, and supporting nurses in self-care and career development.

Shanna Brisebois
647-534-6714
[email protected]