An oncology nurse is a type of registered nurse who specializes in the care of cancer patients. Oncology nurses work with patients to provide education and support, as well as coordinate care with other members of the healthcare team. They may also provide guidance to patients and families dealing with a cancer diagnosis.
Oncology Nurse job duties include:
- Providing direct patient care
- Administering chemotherapy and other treatments
- Educating patients and families about cancer and treatment options
- Coordinating care with other members of the healthcare team
- Monitoring patients for side effects and complications
- Providing emotional support to patients and families
- Assisting with cancer research studies
- Advocating for patients' rights and needs
- Coordinating end-of-life care
Oncology Nurse Job Requirements
An oncology nurse is a registered nurse who has specialized training in caring for cancer patients. They must have a minimum of a bachelor's degree in nursing, although many oncology nurses have a master's degree. They must also be certified in oncology nursing by the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation. Oncology nurses typically have several years of experience working in a hospital setting before becoming an oncology nurse.
Oncology Nurse Skills
- Cancer
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation
- Biology
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Pharmacology
- Medical Terminology
- Patient Education
- Emotional Support
- Advocacy
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How to become an Oncology Nurse
An Oncology Nurse is a registered nurse who specializes in the care of cancer patients. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Oncology Nurses must be able to provide emotional support to patients and their families, as well as educate them about their disease and treatment options.
To become an Oncology Nurse, one must first obtain a nursing degree from an accredited institution. Once you have your degree, you must then pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain your nursing license. After that, you can pursue a specialty certification in oncology nursing through the ONCC (Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation).
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