Pamela Laszewski, RN, OCN
Pamela Laszewski, RN, OCN, Clinical Leader of Radiation at the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, will receive the notable 2017 Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) Excellence in Radiation Therapy Nursing Award during the Annual ONS Congress May 4–7, 2017, in Denver. The award was created to recognize and support excellence in radiation therapy nursing and is granted to members of the Oncology Nursing Society who have been nominated by another member.
“I am very pleased to receive this distinguished award and for what it represents—excellence in nursing,” Ms. Laszewski said. “I’ve dedicated many years to caring for patients, and it’s my privilege to care for Karmanos’ patients. I am truly humbled to be selected for this award.”
Award criteria require the potential recipient be a registered professional nurse; have at least 2 years of oncology nursing experience; be a recognized expert in the field of radiation oncology (ie, through publications, presentations, research, peer review); have made a significant contribution to one or more of the following areas related to radiation oncology: professional/patient education, clinical practice, and /or nursing research; and serve as a role model for other radiation oncology nurses.
Researcher and Mentor
Ms. Laszewski has been an oncology nurse for 28 years and a radiation oncology nurse at Karmanos for the past 19 years. She currently serves as President of the metro Detroit Oncology Nursing Society.
She also has worked as a leader on a research project funded by the Oncology Nursing Foundation studying patients with head and breast cancers and their adherence to prescribed skin care while receiving radiation therapy. The project has changed the way skin care adherence is viewed by radiation oncology nurses across the country.
In addition, Ms. Laszewski has served as a mentor for many radiation oncology nurses at Karmanos, encouraging them to receive their certifications, to take part in research projects, and to publish their research. ■
