[RN_2_B_5/2004]

Hi there!!

I am in the process of interviewing for a new grad position within a Oncology/Hematology Floor. My interview is with the nurse manager of that floor on February 3rd.

I would like to request some help with what questions to ask during the interview. Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

I have had some recent experience with CA, my father currently has brain cancer, my step-mom had breast CA 3 years ago, and my grandmother died from pancreatic ca 5 years ago. I truly loved everything the oncology nurses have done for all three of them and could really see myself in that role as a nurse.

Also, could you give me a picture of what your typical day in an inpatient oncology/hematology unit is like.

Thank you and God Bless!!

Jenn

[efiebke]

It seems like you have the foundation for a great interview: motivation. I shared my family's history with cancer. My grandmother, who was a devoted LPN, was one motivating force for me becoming a nurse. Her death from metastatic breast cancer, and witnessing the wonderful care she received from the oncology and hospice nurses, was my motivating force to becoming an oncology nurse (many years ago).

What was it like working on a busy hematology/oncology (and BMT) floor? Busy! Lots of chemo. Lots of vomiting. Lots of people fighting for their lives. Lots of opportunities to provide caring nursing for oncology patients and their families.

Oncology nursing was a very rewarding time in my life. I still work in this field on a per diem basis. Will probably return to it full-time later in my career.

Good luck!

Ted

[RN_2_B_5/2004]

I interviewed on the 3rd of February and it went so well, I felt so comfortable , like it was meant to be. They called me on the 6th and offered me the position, which I very happily accepted, 32hrs/wk pm & noc.

I am still a nursing student and will not start my new job until May 24th. I have alot to learn still and welcome any suggestions on becoming better prepared for my new job on a 36 bed inpatient oncology/hematology unit, there is also a 5 chair outpatient infusion/chemo center that is staffed by the RN's on the inpatient unit.

Are there any books out there that might help me prepare?

Any other suggestions from those of you who have worked onc/hem?

Thaks again!!