How to become an oncology nurse

How to become an Oncology Nurse

To become an oncology nurse, one must first obtain a degree in nursing and become a registered nurse (RN). Here are the general steps to becoming an oncology nurse:

• Earn a nursing degree: One can become a registered nurse by earning an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing (BSN). Both nursing degrees prepare graduates to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed as an RN. It is recommended to obtain a bachelor's degree, as a BSN degree provides a more comprehensive education.
• Gain nursing experience: Most oncology nursing positions require at least one year of nursing experience in an acute care setting, such as a hospital.
• Obtain certification: Oncology nursing certification is available through the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC). To be eligible for certification, one must meet certain education and experience requirements and pass an exam. Some employers may require or prefer certification.
• Pursue advanced education: An advanced degree, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), can prepare nurses for advanced practice roles, such as oncology nurse practitioner or clinical nurse specialist.
• Gain experience in oncology nursing: Many oncology nurses gain experience through on-the-job training or by participating in continuing education opportunities.
• Join a professional organization: Joining a professional organization can provide networking opportunities, access to education resources, and opportunities to advance the field of oncology nursing.

Certifications
There are several certifications available for oncology nurses, depending on their level of education and experience. These certifications can help oncology nurses demonstrate their expertise and commitment to their patients and their profession. Here are some of the most common certifications:

• Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN): This certification is offered by the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC) and is designed for registered nurses who work directly with cancer patients. To be eligible for the OCN certification, nurses must have at least one year of experience in oncology nursing and have completed at least 1,000 hours of oncology nursing practice within the past two years.
• Certified Pediatric Hematology Oncology Nurse (CPHON): This certification is also offered by ONCC and is designed for nurses who work with children and adolescents with cancer and blood disorders. To be eligible for the CPHON certification, nurses must have at least one year of experience in pediatric hematology/oncology nursing and have completed at least 1,000 hours of pediatric hematology/oncology nursing practice within the past two years.
• Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP): This certification is offered by the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC) and is designed for nurse practitioners who specialize in oncology. To be eligible for the AOCNP certification, nurse practitioners must have a master's degree in nursing, have completed at least 500 hours of advanced oncology nursing practice within the past two years, and have a current certification as a nurse practitioner.
• Certified Breast Care Nurse (CBCN): This certification is offered by the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC) and is designed for nurses who specialize in breast care. To be eligible for the CBCN certification, nurses must have at least two years of experience in breast care nursing and have completed at least 1,000 hours of breast care nursing practice within the past two years.
• Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse (CHPN): This certification is offered by the Hospice and Palliative Credentialing Center (HPCC) and is designed for nurses who specialize in hospice and palliative care. To be eligible for the CHPN certification, nurses must have at least two years of experience in hospice and palliative nursing and have completed at least 500 hours of hospice and palliative nursing practice within the past two years.

Associations
There are several professional associations for oncology nurses that provide education, networking opportunities, and resources to support their practice. Some of the most prominent associations include:

• Oncology Nursing Society (ONS): ONS is a professional association for nurses who specialize in oncology and provides education, research, and advocacy for its members. ONS offers conferences, webinars, publications, and certification programs, including the Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) certification.
• Association of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses (APHON): APHON is a professional association for nurses who work with children and adolescents with cancer and blood disorders. The organization provides education, networking, and resources for its members, including the Certified Pediatric Hematology Oncology Nurse (CPHON) certification.
• American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO): ASCO is a professional organization for physicians and healthcare professionals who specialize in cancer care, including oncology nurses. ASCO provides education, advocacy, and resources to support oncology nurses in their practice.
• Society of Gynecologic Oncology (SGO): SGO is a professional association for healthcare professionals who specialize in gynecologic oncology, including nurses. SGO provides education, research, and advocacy for its members and offers networking opportunities through its annual meeting and regional events.
• Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association (HPNA): HPNA is a professional association for nurses who specialize in hospice and palliative care. The organization provides education, research, and advocacy for its members and offers the Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse (CHPN) certification.