What is the role of telehealth in oncology nursing practice?

The role of telehealth in oncology nursing practice is primarily to provide access to care and ongoing support remotely. This approach has become increasingly important in enhancing patient care, especially for individuals who may have difficulty attending in-person appointments due to geographic, financial, or health-related barriers. Telehealth enables nurses to conduct assessments, monitor symptoms, educate patients, and provide emotional support without requiring them to travel, thereby improving convenience and continuity of care.

While performing physical examinations remotely may seem like a possibility, the comprehensive assessment and physical examination often require in-person contact to accurately evaluate a patient’s condition. Similarly, administering chemotherapy infusions online is not feasible as such treatments require direct supervision and management in a clinical setting to monitor for any immediate side effects or complications. Lastly, telehealth is not designed to replace in-person consultations entirely; rather, it complements them by offering an additional means of communication and support, ensuring that patients receive quality care in a flexible manner.