Clinical nurse specialist

The clinical nurse specialist for children’s cancer/paediatric oncology is Julie Eaton.

 Julie's role is to provide constant support to each patient and their family as the care pathway is followed. She will walk your child and you through each step of the journey, and is dedicated to providing a personal service. Julie is also there to provide relevant written information on your child's condition, to explain their treatment, and to answer any questions they or you may have. She works in partnership with ward staff to ensure that, where appropriate, referrals to other services, such as local community cancer and palliative care teams, are made.

Julie also visits and liaises with schools to ensure that your child's educational and emotional needs are met as closely as possible. She educates teachers on what to expect from a child suffering with cancer, in terms of how they will behave, look, think and feel, and with regards to being watchful and aware of their condition throughout the day, i.e. spotting warning signs that they might be feeling tired or ill.

Through Julie, you will be able to access:

• Up to date clinical information, for example through discussion, or through distribution of patient information leaflets and booklets

• Practical advice and answers to your questions

• Emotional support

• Referral to other services (if appropriate) such as to community groups

• Advice on how to obtain Surgical appliances if necessary.

You can also discuss a variety of issues (depending on their relevancy to you) including:

• Surgery

• Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy

• Other Support Services including social services, home and hospice care

• Emotional and Psychological support and counselling

• Symptom Management

• Fatigue Management

• Employment, benefits/financial entitlement, driving and holiday travel

• Help with Adaptations for the Home/Environmental Aids

• Medications

Julie also runs a Bereavement Support Group and can make home visits if necessary.

Julie works four days a week, and is available to speak to either by phone or in person on these days. An answer machine service is available for when she is not in; if you leave a message she will return your call as soon as possible.

Contact Information
Direct Telephone: 01782 552748 / 552749(answer machine service available for when Julie is out of the office)Email: julie.eaton@uhns.nhs.uk