Jennifer L West, RN, BSN, ONN-CG, CCRC, CCRC

Hello, my name is Jennifer West. I am a clinical trial oncology nurse navigator at UF Health. I earned my associates degree in nursing from Santa Fe College, followed by my bachelors in nursing from the University of South Florida. In addition, I am recognized as a certified clinical research coordinator, and I am a proud member of the Association of Clinical Research Professionals.

My professional journey began with my nursing career, where I quickly learned I gravitated toward the intensity and challenges of the intensive care unit, or ICU. Over the span of 10 years, I dedicated myself to the critical care units, such as the surgical ICU or the cardiovascular ICU. Although I was working night shifts at this time, my colleague Dr. Thomas Beaver encouraged me to switch to normal shifts to keep myself busy during the day. This led me to delve into the realm of research, working alongside Dr. Beaver and his remarkable team from Denmark. The closure of that study left me yearning for more, so I transitioned to the UF Health Cancer Institute's Solid Tumor Research Office, where I gained invaluable experience working with an exceptional team. Subsequently, I joined the McKnight Brain Institute to research glioblastoma multiforme alongside Dr. Erin Dunbar.

After this experience, Alison Ivey, a former colleague, reached out to inform me of an opening for a GI nurse navigator. Although initially hesitant when offered the position as a GI nurse navigator, I embarked on this new journey, which has spanned a decade of fulfillment. Recently, I've transitioned into a clinical trial nurse navigator role, merging my expertise in nurse navigation and research coordination.

Each day entails engaging with patients, discussing their disease journey and navigating obstacles to facilitate their access to clinical trials. I also screen patients and align clinic schedules with potential enrollment opportunities.

Working for the UF Health Cancer Institute allows me to be deeply intertwined in the lives of cancer patients. Being their advocate, beacon of hope and source of encouragement during their darkest moments is incredibly fulfilling.

I prioritize staying up to date on the latest advancements through conferences, memberships in professional organizations like the Academy of Oncology Nurse and Patient Navigators (AONN+) and maintaining my clinical research certification with the Association of Clinical Research Professionals.

My perfect day off involves quality time with my husband of 29 years, lounging by our pool, reflecting on our journey together and cherishing the blessings life has bestowed upon us.

In essence, my career has been a tapestry of diverse experiences, each contributing to my growth as a nurse and a person dedicated to improving the lives of others.