30 Apr 2026

CNSA Communities of Practice: April Wrap Up

Connection, shared experience and practical learning sit at the heart of CNSA’s Communities of Practice. In April, a record six CoPs came together, creating space for cancer nurses across the country to exchange insights, explore emerging challenges and learn from one another in a supportive, peer-led environment.

April Meeting Wrap Up:

Breast Cancer CoP - 8 April 2026

Featuring Dr Kerry Curtis – Node dissection Lymphoedema PIVC insertion: Evidence, recommendations & patient centred care

This session focused on the use of the ipsilateral arm following axillary lymph node dissection, unpacking current ANZCA statements and addressing areas of uncertainty for both clinicians and patients.

Discussions emphasised the importance of evidence-based, patient-centred care, as well as collaboration with organisations such as COSA, ANSGAR and BCNA. The group also explored the role of bioimpedance in lymphoedema management and highlighted the need for consistent education, updated guidance and accessible resources.

Sarcoma CoP - 14 April 2026

The Sarcoma CoP continues to grow, with increasing engagement since its inaugural meeting earlier this year. April’s session focused on strengthening education for sarcoma nurses across Australia.

Key discussions included the development of learning modules, collaborative education opportunities and practical clinical resources. The group also began planning for future initiatives, including education sessions, an annual scientific meeting, and involvement in the CNSA Congress.

Following the meeting, ANZSA shared a sarcoma fact sheet to support members in their clinical practice.

Nurse Educator CoP - 15 April 2026

Featuring Mohini Bhatt – Peter Mac Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapy Administration Credentialling Process

This meeting highlighted developments in cancer nursing education, including updates to the Capability Framework, the Cancer Nursing Education Portal, and credentialling pathways for systemic anti-cancer therapy.

Discussion focused on the implementation and evaluation of the ADAC training program, alongside the importance of foundational knowledge, competency assessment and flexible education delivery.

Next steps include the release of new resources, ongoing refinement of competency tools, and a planned CoP meeting at the upcoming CNSA Congress.

Gastrointestinal CoP - 16 April 2026

Featuring Sophie Hatcher – Pelvic Exenteration Surgery

This session explored the Pelvic Exenteration Service at RPA Hospital, including surgical approaches, patient outcomes and the importance of quality-of-life considerations.

The group also discussed patient management, recovery and pre-operative optimisation, as well as opportunities to improve communication around referrals and follow-up care. Planning is underway for GI-focused education sessions at the CNSA Congress in Perth.

Nurse Management/Executive CoP - 17 April 2026

Featuring Melinda Grimson – Microlearning and Gen Z Nursing: Case Study, ‘Leading in Care’ Program at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse

This discussion focused on engaging and supporting Gen Z nurses within the workforce. Participants explored evolving learning preferences, including the use of mobile technology and interactive formats.

Strategies identified included shorter, more frequent education sessions, increased mental health support, and approaches that support meaningful patient engagement.

Melanoma CoP - 21 April 2026

Featuring A/Prof Ben Smith – When treatment works but patients don’t feel well: understanding the emotional journey

This session addressed the emotional and psychosocial experiences of long-term melanoma patients, particularly when treatment is effective but quality of life remains impacted.

Discussion covered communication, resilience and survivorship care, including insights from the Melcare study and practical approaches for clinicians. The session also highlighted available support resources and future opportunities for collaboration.

Coming up in May:

Rare Cancers CoP

Cassie Turner will be presenting on the ARC (Australian Rare Cancer Portal). This portal is used to refer patients to Rare Cancer Australia. The session will include information on the following: what a strong referral looks like, how nurses can support the referral process, how they can best support patients, and typical timeframes. There will also be a case study to illustrate how it all works.

Date: 1 May 2026
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Meeting Link: Please click here to access the link

Gynaecological Cancers CoP

We will be holding our inaugural meeting of the newly established Gynaecological Cancers CoP Group. Our initial meeting will be held on 18 May 5pm AEST and will feature a presentation by Natalie Williams on GyN Care - an interactive online guidance tool designed to support nurses caring for Australians diagnosed with a gynaecological cancer.

Date: Monday, 18 May 2026
Time: 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM AEST

Meeting Link: Please click here to access the link