A registered nurse specializing in delivering quality treatment to cancer patients is known as an oncology nurse. As a healthcare professional, oncology nurses takes complete care of cancer patients, right from monitoring their conditions to administering chemotherapy, prescribing medicines, and other treatments. They work together with oncology physicians and other practitioners to diagnose, treat, and offer complete care to patients who have cancer. They perform a wide range of responsibilities including developing care plans, monitoring symptoms, and much more. They mainly work in a sterile hospital setting and in community clinics as when needed.
First of all, a candidate willing to become an oncology nurse needs to become a registered nurse in the state they belong to. He or she will have to complete four years of bachelor’s degree in nursing. Later, they need to undergo an additional two years of master’s degree specializing in the field of oncology to get certified and licensed by their state. Along with acquiring degrees, they need to practice in an oncology department of a hospital. After completing all level of education and training, they will have to apply to get recognized by their respective state as an advanced practice nurse (APN). Once they are certified, then they will qualify for the final certification exam necessary to become an advanced oncology certified nurse practitioner (AOCNP).
