Toxic Clues: An Immunotherapy Investigation

9am – 4pm AWST, 17 June 2026 ‐ 7 hours

Pre Congress Symposiums

This interactive symposium will explore the evolving role of cancer nurses in the recognition and management of immune-related adverse events (irAEs) arising from immunotherapy across different tumour streams. With immunotherapy now a cornerstone of oncology care, nurses are essential to early toxicity detection, patient education, and coordinated response across acute, regional, and telehealth settings.

By the end of this session, participants will:

  1. describe the current immunotherapy landscape and mechanisms of action;
  2. recognise common and uncommon irAEs and their clinical indicators;
  3. apply evidence-based approaches to grading and management;
  4. integrate practical tools to support person-centred nursing care. 

The session will combine keynote insights, systems-based case discussions, and hands-on activities including an “Immunotherapy Toxicity Escape Room” that challenges teams to identify, grade, and manage simulated toxicities under time pressure. 

Participants will enhance their confidence and capability in immunotherapy nursing practice by developing improved clinical reasoning, teamwork, and decision-making skills. They will leave with practical frameworks and assessment tools to support early recognition, timely escalation, and effective patient education—strengthening their role as leaders in the safe delivery of immunotherapy and the optimisation of patient outcomes.

 

Time Topic Speaker
0900 - 0920 Welcome and Housekeeping Michelle Rosano, Melanoma Institute Australia, NSW
0920 - 1010 Immunotherapy Landscape Dr Piyush Grover, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, WA
1010 - 1030 Toxicity Management: Foundations Caitlin Broderick, WA Cancer Network, WA
1030 - 1045 Morning Tea  
1045 - 1145 Deep Dive into Toxicity Management Julie Evans, Wide Bay Hospital & Health Service, QLD
1145 - 1215 Nursing in Action: Practical Tools & Strategies Louise Jackson, Mackay Hospital & Health Service, QLD
1215 - 1245 Lunch  
1245 - 1415 Grey Zones & Real-World Challenges Chair - Shahn Coburn & Laura O’Driscoll, Melanoma Institute Australia, NSW
1415 - 1430 Afternoon Tea  
1430 - 1545 Immunotherapy Escape Room Interactive
1545 - 1600 Wrap up and close Michelle Rosano, Melanoma Institute Australia, NSW