U.S. Oncology, a cancer-care firm based in Houston, is hosting a national nursing symposium for oncology nurses.

"Leading the Way in Cancer Care: Latest Advancements in the Clinical Setting," will be held July 26-27 in Hollywood, Fla., and will offer oncology nurses an opportunity to learn about new technologies and care skills.

Pearl Moore, CEO of the Oncology Nursing Society, will speak on the future of oncology nursing, and a number of other speakers will address key nursing topics, such as breast cancer treatment, new drugs, genetics, side-effect management and reimbursement. In addition, nurses will learn more about being a leader in their work environment, public-policy activities that directly affect oncology care and legal documentation of patient care.

"As an oncology nurse, I look forward to the opportunity of having hundreds of my colleagues in one room to discuss topics relevant to our field of work," said Dianne Richardson, associate director of clinical operations for US Oncology, host of the symposium. "I think nurses who attend, along with their practices and patients, will greatly benefit from increased awareness of issues facing oncology professionals, including the critical nursing shortage."

The Oncology Nursing Society's Approver Unit has approved this educational event for 12 contact hours. The symposium is made possible through unrestricted educational grants from Amgen and Ortho Biotech.

US Oncology is affiliated with more than 860 physicians operating in over 460 locations, including 77 outpatient cancer centers, in 28 states.