What does an Oncology Nurse do?

Oncology Nurses serve as a crucial part of a patient’s cancer care team, often coordinating the treatment and services the patient receives. They typically work in hospitals and outpatient care centers where patients receive cancer treatments. In hospital settings, they might help with surgery prep, patient education and coordination of other cancer treatments. In outpatient care centers, Oncology Nurses typically help with treatments such as chemotherapy and infusions while monitoring patients’ vitals. Some Oncology Nurses also work in Oncologists’ offices to educate patients and administer some treatments. An Oncology Nurse works closely with individual patients and often becomes a constant for the patient, which can provide comfort and consistency.

Oncology Nurse skills and qualifications

Being an Oncology Nurse requires several prerequisite skills and qualifications, including:

• Ability to adapt quickly to changing situations
• Providing a safe space for patients undergoing cancer treatments
• Strong communication skills to explain treatments to patients and share information with Physicians
• Collaboration to work well with other care providers
• Ability to build relationships with patients
• Attention to detail to notice changes in patients
• Strong understanding of cancer treatments and research to support patients
• Willingness to advocate for patients

Oncology Nurse experience requirements

To pursue Oncology Nurse careers, candidates typically start as an RN with at least a year of experience in nursing. They also need to gain clinical experience in oncology during that time. Some facilities prefer more than a year of RN experience and more extensive oncology experience before hiring a candidate as an Oncology Nurse.

Oncology Nurse education and training requirements

All Oncology Nurses start out by earning either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). While both options result in the candidate becoming an RN, many facilities prefer applicants with a BSN. They must also pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a licensed RN. Candidates must then work as an RN while gaining experience in cancer care. This can occur through clinical practice in the oncology field or through coursework and training.

Oncology Nurses can also become certified through the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC). The organization offers several certification options, including Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN), Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse (AOCN) and Certified Pediatric Oncology Nurse (CPON). Many of the certifications require a minimum number of hours working as an RN and specifically in oncology. When hiring, you might look for a candidate who already has an oncology certification, or you might hire someone with less oncology experience who eventually wants to earn their certification.

Job description samples for similar positions

If you’re looking for job descriptions for other related positions, consider these options:

• Nurse Practitioner
• Nursing Assistant
• Intensive Care Unit Nurse
• Home Health Nurse

Oncology Nurse job description FAQs

What is the difference between an Oncology Nurse and a Registered Nurse?

Oncology Nurses are Registered Nurses, but they specialize in cancer-related treatments and patient care. Registered Nurses often work with a variety of patients who might have different health conditions or injuries. Both types of Nurses provide general patient care and education while collaborating with Physicians and other healthcare team members.

What should you look for in an Oncology Nurse resume?

When evaluating resumes, look for extensive experience in oncology settings. A candidate with continuing education or other coursework in cancer-related topics can be an asset to your organization. Someone who is already an Oncology Certified Nurse has more extensive experience and can begin working quickly with their existing knowledge.

What qualities make a good Oncology Nurse?

Oncology Nurses should be able to deal with seeing very sick patients regularly, and they should be able to handle the death of people they grow close to during the treatment process. They need empathy and compassion to support patients who are going through one of the most difficult times of their lives. Having a passion for helping cancer patients and doing regular research in cancer treatments can also be beneficial for Oncology Nurses.