What is a Pediatric Oncology Nurse?

Nurses are often (and appropriately) referred to as heroes in scrubs. But pediatric oncology nurses usually think their young patients are the true superheroes and find it a privilege to care for them. 

Pediatric oncology nurses provide care for children of all ages with hematology disorders, autoimmune disorders, and all types of cancer. 

When a child is diagnosed with cancer, it does not only affect the patient: the whole family is affected and must be supported throughout treatment. It’s probably easy for you to imagine the heartbreak that must come with pediatric oncology nursing. But, it’s important to remember the other side of that coin – the many joyful moments and successes that outweigh the sad times. 

Pediatric oncology nurses enjoy close, trusting relationships with patients and their families. It is an incredibly rewarding job, but one that requires emotional stability and resiliency. 

Pediatric oncology nurses often work in a specialized pediatric hospital unit, or even a children’s hospital. Other work settings include hospices, outpatient clinics, radiation center, or at patients’ homes. 

The Association of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses (APHON) is a professional organization to support pediatric oncology nurses. It formed in the early-to-mid 1970s, at a time when the medical and nursing treatment of pediatric cancers was just beginning to be a recognized specialty. Pediatric oncology care is a rapidly changing field, requiring nurses to be lifelong learners. A professional nursing organization, such as APHON, offers meetings, webinars, conventions and more to help keep their members current in their knowledge base. They also provide many networking opportunities, and other career assistance.

Life of a Pediatric Oncology Nurse

Pediatric oncology nurses combine their interest in cancer treatments with their love of children. They work in both inpatient and outpatient settings commonly performing these types of tasks:

• Assessment of child’s physical and psychosocial needs
• Administer chemotherapy, biotherapy, immunosuppressants, blood/blood products
• Monitor the child for side effects
• Give medication or additional treatments to cope with side effects
• Educate patient’s families about treatments, diet restrictions, infection prevention, etc.
• Emotionally support children and their families

Why Travel as a Pediatric Oncology Nurse

Your skills are needed by children at top facilities across the nation. In addition to the very competitive pay rates that you can earn on assignment as a pediatric oncology travel nurse, you can also enjoy a variety of other benefits. 

Travel nursing can open the door to exciting opportunities. It will help you bolster your nursing resume and make professional connections across the country. As the healthcare landscape shifts, you’ll find yourself well prepared for any changes and it may open options to pursue later in your career. 

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