Oncology Nurse Certification

As the science of medicine evolves and takes on many specializations, so does the profession of nursing. Nursing now has different areas of specialization and there are specific trainings for each area. One such rapidly increasing area of specialization is oncology nursing.

Cancer is a modern disease that has affected millions of people across the globe. It is no wonder that there is now a specialized area of nursing catering to these patients. Taking care of cancer patients will mean meeting people in a time of great distress and need. A nurse working every day with oncology patients needs to be well trained in the medical aspects of their treatment, as well as with the emotionally difficult task of treating these patients with compassion and understanding. Here are the requirements on how to qualify for an Oncology Nurse Certification:

• A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.
• An active RN (registered Nurse) license that is valid in the location where you want to practice in.
• At least a 1-year clinical experience in the oncology field. You need to have experience in taking care of patients with cancer. Certification requires at least 1,000 hours of practice in an oncology ward.
• Specialized training in oncology and in how to take care of patients in that area. You can also enrol in a masters program and specialize in oncology nursing.
• You can then submit all our credentials to the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC) for approval. You then take a test and see if you qualify for an Oncology Nurse Certification.
• You need to renew your certification every 4 years and you need to take a test again. You also need to have trainings and additional clinical hours in the oncology area.
• You can also get a Pediatric Oncology Nurse Certification if you want take care of children with cancer.
• If you want to further enhance your career in nursing, you can get a Masters Degree Specializing in Oncology and become an Oncology Nurse Practitioner.

Take time and think about different career options in the field of nursing. You can specialize in a specific area in nursing and concentrate on that area. Getting an Oncology Nurse Certification is a wise choice as the need for nurses in that area of specialization is great. You can get a lot of satisfaction from taking care of patients in great need of your emotional support. Train and take up special courses and be on your way to become an Oncology Nurse.