Ellen M. Ralph, RN, BSN, OCN
Ellen M. Ralph, RN, BSN, OCN, is a highly experienced oncology nurse with a distinguished healthcare career spanning more than three decades. Her clinical expertise encompasses oncology, medical-surgical nursing, infusion therapy, case management, home healthcare, and veteran care. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a commitment to providing compassionate, evidence-based care while serving in leadership, educational, and patient advocacy roles.
Ms. Ralph began her nursing career as a Licensed Practical Nurse, gaining valuable experience in long-term care and private-duty nursing before advancing her education and earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Kansas School of Nursing. As a Registered Nurse, she has worked in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, outpatient oncology clinics, infusion centers, and healthcare organizations across several states, building a reputation for clinical excellence and patient-centered care.
A significant portion of her career has been dedicated to oncology nursing. As an Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) since 2011, she has provided comprehensive care to patients undergoing cancer treatment, including chemotherapy administration, patient assessment, vascular access management, patient education, and care coordination. Her extensive oncology experience includes positions with the North Las Vegas VA Medical Center, Healthcare Partners, Arizona Oncology, and the Southern Nevada Healthcare System, where she collaborated closely with physicians, nurse practitioners, and interdisciplinary teams to optimize patient outcomes.
In addition to her clinical expertise, Ms. Ralph has demonstrated strong leadership abilities throughout her career. She has served as a charge nurse, preceptor, care manager, and temporary Assistant Nurse Manager, mentoring nursing staff and helping oversee clinic operations. During her tenure at the North Las Vegas VA Medical Center, she was recognized as Supervisor of the Quarter and played a key role in coordinating infusion services, telehealth initiatives, and comprehensive care for veteran patients.
Currently, Ms. Ralph serves as an independent Registered Nurse contractor with Float Health, providing in-home infusion services, medication education, vascular access care, laboratory services, and chronic disease support. An active member of the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS), she remains committed to advancing oncology nursing practice and improving the lives of patients through compassionate care, professional leadership, and lifelong learning.
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – University of Kansas, School of Nursing, Kansas City, KS
• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) – Johnson County Community College AVTS, Overland Park, KS
• Medical Secretary Training – Rochester Community College, Rochester, MN
• Registered Nurse (RN)
• Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN)
• Biotherapy and Chemotherapy Certified
• Supervisor of the Quarter – North Las Vegas VA Medical Center
• American Nurses Association
• Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) – Member and committee participant
Areas of Specialization/Expertise
- Oncology nursing care and chemotherapy administration
- Infusion therapy (IV antibiotics, IVIG, biologics)
- Port, central line, and PICC line care
- Patient assessment and education
- Medical-surgical nursing
- Case management and care coordination
- Veteran healthcare services
- Telehealth oncology care
- Wound care and dressing changes
- Clinical documentation and EMR charting
- Charge nursing and team coordination
- Preceptorship and nursing education
What do you enjoy most about practicing medicine?
What I enjoy most is simply being present for my patients and helping them get through each step of their cancer journey. I focus on making sure they do not feel overwhelmed or afraid of what is ahead. If they need reassurance, I take the time to support them in whatever way they need, including holding their hand through difficult moments. I often share my own story with patients who are anxious or fearful, reminding them that every journey is different and uniquely their own. I encourage them to maintain a positive outlook and faith, as I believe both can make a meaningful difference in how they cope and heal.
I also make it clear to my patients that there are no “silly” questions—every concern they have is important and deserves an answer. Having personally gone through a breast cancer diagnosis in 2010, I have a deeper understanding of what my patients experience emotionally and physically. I have supported patients through some of their most difficult moments, including those who were told to “get their affairs in order,” and I always remind them that hope should never be taken away. In my experience, until the very end, there is always hope, and I strive to be a source of that encouragement for my patients.