Qualifications/Skills of an Oncology Nurse

How can you become an oncology nurse?

A registered nurse looking to become an oncology nurse must first graduate from an accredited nursing school, then pass the NCLEX exam, and finally get their state license as a RN.

Once you are an RN, you can start to pursue a career as an oncology nurse. It is essential that you gain some clinical experience --preferably in the oncology unit. This could include oncology mentorship or internship programs. Once you have the appropriate qualifications and skills outlined above, then you can further your career with certifications and additional continuing education. 

Becoming a certified oncology nurse can help you to earn more money and advance your career.

Certification for oncology nursing is currently offered by the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC). This organization offers a variety of certifications for oncology nurses.

• Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN®)
• Certified Pediatric Hematology Oncology Nurse (CPHON®)
• Certified Breast Care Nurse (CBCN®)
• Blood & Marrow Transplant Certified Nurse (BMTCN®)
• Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP®)
• Advanced Oncology Certified Clinical Nurse Specialist (AOCNS®)
• Certified Pediatric Oncology Nurse (CPON®)
• Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse (AOCN®)

Learn more about each certification and you can decide which one applies to your particular area of practice. For example, you might start with an OCN certification, then pursue a more specialized certification later. 

You can also take courses and attend conferences to boost your knowledge base, which will, in turn, drive your career as an oncology nurse forward. You can always access these opportunities through the Oncology Nursing Society. Additionally, Travelnursing.com’s partners offer opportunities for free CEs that you can complete on your own time at no charge. 

Read More About Oncology Travel Nursing Salary and Requirements from the link below.