A member of Niagara Health System’s Oncology department is the first Niagara nurse to achieve one of the highest designation levels by de Souza Institute. A leader in cancer care excellence, de Souza Institute provides ongoing educational support and career counselling to more than 6,000 oncology nurses across Ontario.
Tammy Powell, a registered nurse at Niagara Health System’s Walker Family Cancer Centre, plays an important role in achieving the organization’s main priority - safe and quality care. “My patients hold a piece of my heart and I’ve had the opportunity to support them through their cancer journeys for 25 years now,” says Tammy. “People are diagnosed with cancer every day, and showing support, love and care can make their time that much easier. I am honoured to be able to provide the best quality care possible, by applying the advanced knowledge and expertise developed through de Souza Institute.”
Tammy received de Souza Nurse Associate level designation, an ideal designation for RNs and RPNs who care for patients living with or at risk of developing cancer. “de Souza nurses are symbolic of oncology nursing excellence and we are proud to recognize Tammy as the first oncology nurse in Niagara to receive one of these unique designations from de Souza Institute,” says Dr. Mary Jane Espien, Director of de Souza Institute.
Tammy first enrolled in a de Souza course in 2010, and through dedication, commitment and time management, she completed her last course in 2014. She plans to continue her education and work towards achieving the next level, which is a full de Souza Nurse Designation.
“Niagara patients are receiving high-quality cancer care by nurses who are dedicated and committed to our patients,” says Derek McNally, NHS’s Executive Vice President of Clinical Services and Chief Nursing Executive. “This is the perfect time for us to thank these nurses for seeking ongoing educational development and striving towards excellence in oncology nursing. We are ecstatic to have nurses like Tammy on our team.”
About de Souza Institute: Established in 2008, de Souza Institute in partnership with University Health Network, Cancer Care Ontario and funded by Ontario’s Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, provides ongoing educational support, professional development and career counselling to nurses caring for cancer patients and families.The de Souza Institute is the latest standard in cancer care nursing excellence. Nurses with de Souza designations are recognized by employees, patients and families, policymakers, and the public as well-regarded healthcare professionals possessing strong communication and leadership skills. They are also known as lifelong learners providing nursing excellence in psychosocial care.
Media contact:
Steven Gallagher, Communications Specialist
905-378-4647, ext. 43879. Steven.gallagher@niagarahealth.on.ca
