Pediatric nurse practitioners specializing with survivors of childhood cancer.

The evolution of the role of the pediatric nurse practitioner in oncology specializing in the care of childhood cancer survivors is described, with certain aspects of the role solidified or expanded and new functions added. The early concept of the role included three interdependent functions: (a) clinician/caregiver, (b) educator, and (c) researcher. The functions of specialty care provider and educator remain strong; the role of researcher has been expanded, and new role components, clinical/program manager and consultant, have been added. The central focus for the pediatric nurse practitioner in oncology is the survivor and family, which is extended to the clinic population and related groups by the blending of the pediatric nurse practitioner and clinical nurse specialist roles. Any role function on behalf of this clinical population should be assumed as necessary to provide comprehensive care.