February 7, 2025#WeAreNorthern
Tuesday, 4 February was World Cancer Day. Today we are pleased to profile Bethany Wallach, Clinical Nurse Educator – Haematology/Oncology.
Q: Can I have your coffee order first, please, Beth?
A: Small oat cappuccino! A must have to start the day!
Q: What is the role of a Clinical Nurse Educator in the cancer space?
A: As a Clinical Nurse Educator, my role is to support and train staff in providing exceptional care for cancer patients, including administering chemotherapy treatments. I also assist in developing training programs, implementing new treatment protocols, and creating educational content and policies. A big part of my role involves mentoring new graduate nurses and undergraduate students, helping them become the best nurses they can be.
Q: What satisfaction does your role give you?
A: I love the challenge that comes with this role — whether it’s problem-solving, staying updated on advancements in cancer care, or finding new ways to educate staff. Teaching and mentoring are particularly rewarding, as I get to help shape the future of nursing. I also enjoy working within multi-disciplinary teams, engaging with different stakeholders, and creating resources that enhance knowledge and patient care. Most of all, I love the opportunity to continuously develop my own knowledge and research in the cancer field, allowing me to stay at the forefront of new treatments and best practices.
Q: What are your plans in this role for 2025?
A: Firstly, ensuring all staff members in the cancer sector complete the Anti-Cancer Drug Administration Course (ADAC). Also expanding training for handling and administering cytotoxic drugs hospital-wide, assisting with the implementation of new cancer treatments at Northern Health and providing more training around the management of Central Venous Access Devices (CVAD) to ensure best practices in patient care.
Q: What are the best things about working at Northern Health?
A: Without a doubt, the culture and the people. It’s a supportive, collaborative environment where everyone is committed to making a difference. I’ve also felt incredibly supported by the education team, who have helped me develop and grow into my role. Their guidance has been invaluable in shaping my journey as a Clinical Nurse Educator.
Q: How do you occupy yourself outside of work?
A: I love spending time in my garden, reading, knitting, and playing video games. I also enjoy listening to music, hanging out with my dog Winnie, and spending quality time with my husband.
Q: What is something not many people know about you?
A: I have a keen interest in history, especially revolutions, and will happily discuss them at length. One day, I’d love to write my own book!
Q: Who is a famous historical figure who has influenced you and why?
A: Without a doubt, Virginia Hall! She was an incredibly intelligent and courageous woman who refused to let her disability or gender stand in her way. Despite numerous obstacles, she became one of the most effective undercover spies of World War II. She coordinated critical missions, and orchestrated daring rescues of captured agents from heavily guarded prisons. Her resilience and passion inspire me to continue to push past obstacles that seem unachievable, and to transform what seem like personal deficits and insecurities, into strengths.
