Oncology Nurse Career Overview
What is oncology nursing? Oncology nurses specialize in caring for individuals with cancer. 
The role of an oncology nurse can be both demanding and fulfilling, especially as advancements in cancer treatments continue. Oncology nurse positions involve taking care of patients as part of a team led by oncologist physicians or nurse practitioners (NPs). They may also supervise nursing assistants.
Education Duration
2-4 years
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Job Outlook
There is a 7% growth in employment opportunities in this field from 2019 to 2029.
Average Earnings
The average earning potential is $74,090.
Requirements
Source: PayScale
Roles of an Oncology Nurse
The responsibilities of oncology nurses include:
1. Monitoring patient progress and updating their records.
2. Administering treatments prescribed by physicians and NPs.
3. Educating patients about treatment and how to prevent cancer recurrence.
4. Facilitating communication between patients and physicians.
5. Providing emotional and psychological support to patients and their families.
Key Skills:
– Empathy
– Communication
– Collaboration
– Continuous learning
Where Oncology Nurses Work
Oncology nurses primarily work in:
1. Hospitals:
They care for inpatients and outpatients, assist with treatments and operations, and monitor patient progress.
2. Standalone Facilities:
In these settings, they facilitate communication with primary care providers, update health records, educate patients and families, and prepare patients for discharge.
3. Hospice Care:
Oncology nurses in hospice care facilities assist terminal patients, administer palliative treatments, and provide psychological support.
Why Pursue a Career in Oncology Nursing?
Oncology nursing can be emotionally rewarding but also challenging, particularly in pediatric oncology. As cancer care advances, employment opportunities in this field are increasing, with salaries often surpassing national averages.
Advantages:
– The ability to assist patients and their families during their most critical times.
– High levels of trust and respect in communities.
– Above-average salaries.
Disadvantages:
– Emotional stress.
– Blame from families for negative outcomes.
– A higher risk of burnout.
Becoming an Oncology Nurse
To become an oncology nurse, you should:
1. Graduate with a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) or an associate degree in nursing (ADN).
A BSN takes four years to complete, while an ADN requires two years. Many employers demand either a BSN or for a nurse with an ADN to acquire a bachelor’s within a certain period.
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN exam to receive registered nursing licensure.
This national exam covers various aspects of nursing, including conditions, treatments, patient psychology, communication, and legal/ethical issues.
3. Gain experience in oncology nursing practice.
After two years as an RN and 2,000 hours of oncology work, you can apply for certification as an oncology certified nurse (OCN).
4. Enhance your job prospects by becoming an OCN.
While not mandatory for entry-level oncology nurse positions, certification can be advantageous.
5. Advance your career with a graduate degree.
A lot of oncology nurses pursue advanced certifications, such as becoming an oncology nurse practitioner, by earning a master of science in nursing (MSN).
Specializations and Certifications in Oncology Nursing
Pediatric Oncology Nurse
Certified pediatric oncology nurses focus on caring for children and teenagers who have cancer. They not only provide medical treatment but also offer emotional support to the young patients and their families.
Pediatric Hematology Oncology Nurse
These nurses specialize in treating children with diseases like leukemia and other blood-related cancers. They often administer chemotherapy, which is a type of treatment for these conditions.
Breast Care Nurse
Breast care nurses play a crucial role in supporting patients during their breast cancer treatment journey. They also educate patients about ways to prevent the recurrence of breast cancer.
Blood and Marrow Transplant Nurse
Blood and marrow transplant nurses help patients who need transplants, guiding them through the preparation process, administering transplants, monitoring their progress, and educating them about their ongoing care needs.
How Much Do Oncology Nurses Earn?
Oncology nursing jobs, much like other nursing positions, provide salaries that are higher than the national average. On average, an oncology nurse can earn around $76,332. In 2019, the top 10% of registered nurses (RNs) received a median salary of over $111,200.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that RN employment will grow faster than the average, increasing by 7% from 2019 to 2029. As the U.S. population ages and cancer rates are expected to rise, oncology nurse jobs are likely to remain in demand.
Find Salary Data by State
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become an oncology nurse?
Becoming an oncology nurse typically requires two years to earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or four years to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). To become an Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN), at least two years of RN experience is needed, although entry-level oncology nurse positions may not necessarily require certification.
Do oncology nurses get paid more than other nurses?
Oncology nurse jobs offer an average annual salary of approximately $74,090, which is nearly on par with the median salary for all nurses at $73,300. However, the salary for oncology nurses can vary depending on factors such as experience, certification, geographic location, specialization, and more.
What career advancement opportunities are available for oncology nurses?
Oncology nurses can advance in their careers by becoming oncology nurse practitioners. This typically involves earning a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and passing a certification examination. Nurse practitioners in oncology often earn higher salaries and take on more significant responsibilities in patient care.
What types of questions are on the OCN exam?
The OCN examination focuses on the aspects of oncology care that nurses are most likely to provide, including early detection, symptom and pain management, and understanding the psychological impact of a cancer diagnosis. It is a three-hour multiple-choice test.
Resources for Oncology Nurses
– Oncology Nursing Society (ONS):
ONS is an organization with over 35,000 members. It offers opportunities for professional development and continuing education. ONS also publishes newsletters and a scholarly journal and provides scholarships and grants to its members.
– Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC):
ONCC is responsible for developing and administering eight oncology nurse credential programs. Additionally, it approves continuing education programs for credit and has established a code of ethics for oncology nurses.
– Association of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses (APHON):
APHON offers education and professional development opportunities. They provide a mentoring program, conduct research, publish evidence-based practice guidelines, and administer grants to support the field of pediatric hematology/oncology nursing.
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