Idaho State University-Meridian’s Susan Tavernier receives Oncology Nursing Society Award

Idaho State University-Meridian assistant nursing professor Susan Tavernier is the 2015 recipient of the Oncology Nursing Society State-of-the-Science Lectureship Award.

Tavernier, Ph.D., RN, will accept the award during the opening ceremonies of the ONS Annual Congress April 23-26 in Orlando, Florida.

The award entitles the recipient to present a synthesis of peer-reviewed research on a particular topic to the ONS membership. Tavernier, who has 30 years of oncology nursing experience, will address cancer-related distress.

Her 90-minute presentation will include an overview of current research on the topic, including her own studies. Tavernier has authored two book chapters on cancer-related distress and published findings about exploring barriers to the adoption of distress screening in the clinical oncology setting. Her doctoral dissertation touched on the quality of life of cancer patients.

Distress encompasses more than the physical aspect of cancer and its treatment—it can include mental, behavioral, emotional, social and spiritual components, explained Tavernier. For example, is the patient worried about finances, work or family issues?

If not managed, stress can affect the overall health of a patient and may result in lower levels of adherence to treatment, lower quality of life and increased depression and anxiety. A patient may not be as likely to take medications or may want to stop treatment sooner.

Tavernier, who joined ISU in August 2013, is coordinator of the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at the ISU-Meridian Health Science Center. She has presented her research at numerous national conferences and also published in peer-reviewed journals.

Tavernier is a peer reviewer for the Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing and Qualitative Health Research. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Whitworth University in Spokane, Washington; a Master of Science in Nursing from Loyola University of Chicago, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing from University of Utah.

Founded in 1975, the Oncology Nursing Society is a professional association of close to 38,000 members committed to promoting excellence in oncology nursing and the transformation of cancer care.