This course is an update of the disease sites information in the Foundations of Oncology Nursing Practice – on demand (FOND) course, which covered breast, lung, colorectal and prostate cancer. If you have completed Foundations in Oncology Nursing Practice prior to 2025, do not take this course unless you wish to review an updated version of the previous disease site content.

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers diagnosed in Canada. Fortunately, it is also one of the most preventable cancers. With screening programs across Canada, colon cancer and rectal cancer are being diagnosed at earlier stages and outcomes are significantly better than just a few decades earlier. This course will introduce you to colorectal cancer epidemiology, pathology, screening, diagnosis, and treatment, covering the foundational knowledge you need to provide nursing care to patients with colorectal cancer and their families. This online course will build on what you learned in Foundations of Oncology Nursing Practice or Cancer Care Basics.

Course Objectives

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Describe the gross anatomical features of the colon and colon wall 
• Describe pathogenesis of colorectal cancer (CRC)  
• Discuss risk factors that are associated with developing CRC 
• Describe the main prognostic factor associated with CRC 
• Explain Canadian CRC screening recommendations for low vs. high-risk individuals 
• Describe signs & symptoms suspicious for CRC  
• Describe the general diagnostic pathway for CRC 
• Explain the treatment of CRC (surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy) based on cancer stage, gene mutation, and tumour location 
• List the recommended follow-up activities post-treatment for CRC

Course Syllabus

This course consists of two self-directed eLearning modules and a case quiz.

The quiz consists of a case study where you will apply your knowledge to the care of a patient living with colorectal cancer. The quiz is open-book consisting of 10 questions. You must answer 7/10 questions correctly to achieve a passing grade is 70%. Two attempts are provided.

Although you can complete the various components of the course at your own pace, the course must be completed within 6 weeks from the time you register for the course.

Download the full Course Syllabus.

Eligibility

Available to all regulated health care professionals working along the cancer care continuum.

Payment must be received before you have access to the course. For more information, please visit our Cancellation & No Show Policy.

Participants can pay for this course online with a credit card, or send a cheque to: