Integrative Oncology Training Programs for Staff

A goal of the Wellness and Integrative Oncology Program is to reach as many people as we can through innovation and teamwork.

By training more trusted, passionate, and skilled staff members, we can expand the number of locations where we bring integrative care.

We offer 2 ambassador training programs in nursing and nutrition.

The Nurse Ambassador Program

The Nurse Ambassador program combines learning and hands-on integrative care in a cancer setting.

The program:

• Helps people manage their symptoms and wellness.
• and documents symptoms and experience.
• Offers nurse support and group sharing of training.

Cancer nurses focus on people in treatment, clinic, and inpatient units, improving their experience, symptoms, and quality of life through:

• Aromatherapy.
• Breathing techniques and meditation.
• Hand and foot massage.
• Seated yoga.

After you finish training, you'll offer these integrative therapies at the chair or bedside of cancer patients.

How can I apply to the Nurse Ambassador program?

To apply for the Nurse Ambassador program, you must:

• Be an RN.
• Work in a cancer setting.
• Be in good standing with UPMC and your current supervisor.

The Nutrition Ambassador Program

The Nutrition Ambassador program combines education, evidence-based research, and lifestyle nutrition at the bedside. Registered dietitians in any health specialty will learn tools to expand their practice and explore a more holistic approach.

As a Nutrition Ambassador, you'll teach people — 1-on-1 — diet and lifestyle techniques to manage symptoms and improve their quality of life. We define this as "lifestyle nutrition."

What is lifestyle nutrition?

Lifestyle nutrition is a framework for how food plays a role in helping to prevent and manage illness in real life and in real time. It takes a team approach to care and customizes the interaction between people in our care and dietitians.

Through lifestyle nutrition, we:

• Offer guidance on specific diets and supplements to manage symptoms, side effects, and improve quality of life.
• Address the growing questions people with cancer and their caregivers have as they wade through vast amounts of food and nutrition information from various sources.
• Help highlight the importance of a healthy weight, as obesity is quickly overtaking tobacco as a key driver of complex diseases.

How can I apply to the Nutrition Ambassador program?

Training by our lead lifestyle dietitian will be both didactic and hands-on.

To apply for the Nutrition Ambassador program, you must be:

• A registered dietitian.
• In good standing with UPMC and your current supervisor.

Learn More About Our Ambassador Training Programs

If you would like more information about the ambassador training programs in nursing and nutrition, email Angela at zaccagniniam@upmc.edu.