Inpatient Oncology Services
The inpatient oncology unit at Mercy Hospital Downtown offers:
- Oncology certified nurses who have knowledge and expertise in caring for patients experiencing the complex problems that can be associated with cancer
- Daily visits from the team of caregivers involved in each patient’s care
- Family accommodations so loved ones can comfortably spend the night
- Family lounge that provides a comfortable place for families to visit away from the bedside
- Art for Healing programs offered regularly on the unit and by request
- Support group that meets on the unit
Specialized Nursing Care
The registered nurses caring for patients here have received Oncology Nursing Certification, a nationally-recognized credential for nurses who complete specialized training in oncology care. They have knowledge and expertise in caring for patients experiencing the complex problems that can be associated with cancer.
Multidisciplinary Rounds
A multidisciplinary team of caregivers visits our patients every afternoon during the week. The team consists of a nurse, a pharmacist, a representative from dietary services, social services, and a case manager, in addition to any family members our patients would like included.
Depending on the patient's individual needs, other care representatives may also participate. We will discuss the plan of care and answer any questions the patients may have. It's important to us that our patients play an active role in their health care
Family Accommodations and Lounge
We recognize the impact a diagnosis of cancer can have on patients, as well as family members. Our inpatient oncology unit was designed in collaboration with hospital staff, physicians, and our Patient and Family Centered Care team with the medical and emotional needs of our patients and their loved ones in mind. Family can be an important part of healing, so our patient rooms can accommodate family members who wish to stay overnight.
The family lounge provides a comfortable place for families with a loved one staying on the unit to visit away from the bedside. A television, magazines, and other items are available for families and patients to use at any time. Refreshments are also available in the family lounge.
Art for Healing
Art for Healing offers patients and their families an opportunity to experience the healing benefits that may come from creative expression. Art for Healing offers programs on the unit weekly.
Mercy Cares Support Group
Mercy Cares is a general support group for our inpatients diagnosed with cancer and their loved ones. The group is led by our Social Services Department and meets weekly on the unit.
Additional Resources
We can assist patients with access to other resources such as nutritional counseling, wound care, genetics education, home health, palliative care, and social services. We can also help identify resources available throughout our community that would benefit our patients, and their families.
Research
The Comprehensive Blood and Cancer Center (CBCC) is part of the UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center's Translational Oncology Research International (TORI) network. This partnership allows our patients early access to the latest clinical trials without having to travel to UCLA.