Many health professionals are involved in the care of children with cancer. Each person serves a valuable role in coordinating their care.
Attending Physician: A doctor that specializes in the care of children diagnosed with cancer. The primary responsibility of the attending physician is to develop a treatment plan and oversee the care.
Fellow: A doctor who has completed medical school and a pediatric residency, and is now receiving specialty training in pediatric hematology/oncology/BMT.
House Officer/Resident: A doctor who has completed medical school and is now receiving specialty training in pediatrics.
Clinical Nurse Specialist/Nurse Practitioner: A nurse who has completed a master's program and specialty training in caring for children with cancer. This person is responsible for the medical and nursing care of the child.
Nurse: The person at the bedside who provides daily nursing care and teaching.
Child Life Specialist: A person who has special training in child development, including how children react to illness and being in the hospital. This person can help children understand the medical world, and develop positive coping strategies.
Social Worker: A person who is trained to help the family and child cope with illness and hospitalization through counseling, support groups, financial assistance information and resource referral.
Chaplain: A person who is trained to offer spiritual care, support and prayer according to each family’s individual needs.
Nutritionist: A person who will follow the child's weight and nutritional needs. The nutritionist will also help to provide teaching and support when the child goes home.
Pharmacist: The pharmacist is responsible for preparing medications and nutritional support.
Physical Therapist: A person who works with the child to maintain a level of fitness through strength and endurance exercises.
Psychiatrist: A doctor who is available to help the parents and child cope with the feelings of anger, fear, depression and hope that may be experienced during this time.
Psychologist: A person with a master’s degree who is available to help the family and child cope with feelings of anger, fear, depression and hope that may be experienced during this time. This person may also be specially trained to perform tests to evaluate learning problems that may be associated with the disease or its treatment.
School Teacher: A teacher who works in the hospital to help the child keep up with school work during the hospital stay. The teacher can also keep in touch with the child’s teacher at home, to assist in coordinating learning services throughout the cancer experience.