Principles of Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapy

Principles of Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapy is organized by The Royal Marsden School and will be held from Feb 25 - Jul 01, 2025.

Course Summary:
Focusing on the evidence base, the module addresses the pathophysiology of cancer, principles of systemic anti-cancer therapy, and the legal, ethical, and safety issues inherent in its use. The module will help the learner to develop the skills to identify and manage the common side effects of SACT, considering the impact of these treatments on the patient’s physical, psychological, and psychosocial wellbeing.

The module aims to provide learners with an opportunity to develop the knowledge and skills required to care for patients with cancer undergoing SACT, through the utilisation of evidence-based practice and current research into the effectiveness of treatment and care.

This module is closely aligned to the RCN/UKONS/HEE (2022) Career Pathway and Education Framework and the four pillars of Advanced Clinical Practice (HEE, 2017) and ACCeND.

All theory will be linked to the outcomes from the UKONS SACT competency passport, however to become clinical competent additional assessment will be required in accordance with your local trust policy.

Learning outcomes:
On successful completion of the module at Level 6 you should be able to demonstrate achievement of the following learning outcomes:

• Critically discuss the mode of action of the major groups of SACT agents – cytotoxic, biological therapies, and hormone therapy
• Evaluate the physiological impact of systemic anti-cancer therapies including chemotherapeutic agents on individuals
• Explore the knowledge and skills required to safely assess, plan, implement and evaluate the care of People Affected by Cancer (PABC) throughout the SACT pathway
• Analyse strategies to prevent, reduce, educate and manage SACT- related toxicities in collaboration with the patient, carers, and the multi-professional team to improve outcomes

On successful completion of the module at Level 7 you should be able to demonstrate achievement of the following learning outcomes:

• Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the biological principles of systemic anti-cancer therapies (SACT) including cytotoxic, hormone, and biological therapies and critically explore their implications for practice
• Critically appraise the physical and psycho-social impact of SACT on the patient and their carers
• Critically analyse the clinical judgement and decision-making skills required to safely assess, plan, deliver and evaluate comprehensive care for People Affected by Cancer (PABC) throughout the SACT pathway
• Critically evaluate and synthesise evidence to inform support, educate and apply management strategies to improve SACT service delivery, patient care and outcomes
• Critically explore the impact of professional roles on SACT service development and patient outcomes within the context of healthcare quality indicators.

Key Topics:

• Pathophysiology of cancer in relation to SACT treatments 
• Professional and legal aspects of SACT administration
• National SACT standards, guidelines, and procedures
• Classification of SACT agents and their mechanisms of action
• Principles of SACT administration, risk management and management of adverse effects
• Holistic assessment of the patient  
• Patient and family experience of SACT and living beyond treatment 
• Patient and carer education and support
• Ethical issues
• Quality of life issues
• Oral SACT therapies