Generous support from Monaro Committee for Cancer Research (mcCr) is making a tangible difference in the lives of patients at the Cooma Oncology Unit.
Established in 1997, mcCr has raised over $1 million through fundraising events and generous donations. mcCr’s latest contribution to the Oncology Unit include a state-of-the-art ultrasound machine and consult room chairs with armrests.
“We are so grateful for mcCr’s support, with out them or unit would never have been established” said Erin Dwyer, Nurse Unit Manager of the Oncology Unit.
“Their generosity allows us to improve the service we provide to patients.”
The new ultrasound machine is at the heart of a pilot project led by Erin and Tracey Hobbs, Oncology Clinical Nurse Consultant, aimed at improving care for patients with Difficult Intra Venous Access (also known DIVA).
“DIVA refers to challenges encountered when attempting to establish intravenous (IV) access in patients,” explained Erin. “This occurs when veins are hard to locate, small, fragile, or deep beneath the skin, making successful cannulation difficult.”
“Cannulation challenges are particularly common in oncology patients due to factors like frequent treatments, chemotherapy-related vein damage, and other comorbidities.”
“Ultrasound-guided cannulation provides real-time imaging of veins, enabling clinicians to locate suitable veins more accurately, even if they are deep or difficult to feel.”
“For patients with compromised veins, multiple failed attempts to insert a cannula can be distressing and painful. Ultrasound reduces the number of attempts, minimising distress, and discomfort for patients,” Erin explained.
In some cases, effective peripheral cannulation using ultrasound can reduce the need for invasive central lines like PICCs or ports, which carry additional risks.
“It will also help us with earlier identification of patients in whom a PICC line or central access is unavoidable,” added Erin.
The purchase of chairs with armrests was driven by patient feedback. A patient highlighted the difficulty of getting in and out of standard chairs, prompting the unit to invest in the new seating.
“These chairs have made it much easier for our less physically well patients to attend clinic,” Erin explained. “Armrests reduce the risk of falls or accidents, especially for elderly patients or those recovering from surgeries or treatments that impact their balance.”
Donations to mcCr go directly toward initiatives that enhance patient care and comfort.