[kaylee_2003]

I applied for a job, went for the interview and got hired 2 days later! I'm now going to be working as an oncology graduate nurse!

[Nurse Angel]

Originally Posted by FromNH2VAwherenext

I will be graduating in May 2008 with a BSN (God willin' and the creek don't rise!). From the jobs I've located so far in oncology, it seems that they require 3 years of prior med/surg or inpatient RN experience. I don't have that experience; however, I can't discount the fact that I was an outpatient scheduling secretary for a major cancer ctr in NH for pts on clinical trials. I am at least familiar with the names of various chemos; what to look for in labs (i.e. WBCs, plts, etc.). Is anyone aware of any hospitals in the nursing compact that are willing to train a highly motivated, critical thinking new grad? Thanks in advance.

I too am a new May grad from a BSN program. I was hired fresh out of school in Kentucky.

[sziq1]

Originally Posted by FromNH2VAwherenext

I was just accepted to a med/surg/tele oncology floor. It's a 42 bed unit among a 300 bed hospital in AZ. I figgered I could get in the med/surg stuff along w/ onc -- the pay is sweet, too. Thanks for everyone's support.

ok so it has been a few months since you started on the oncology floor, tell us that graduate in dec. what you think! Is it what you had expected?

I really like our local outpt chemo unit so I am hoping to start on the oncology floor and get my chemo and onc cert. to begin with and then eventually move to the chemo unit.
Do you like what you are doing? I can apply for the job in 2 weeks so I am hoping to get an interview/job soon!

[Nurse Mama]

I am currently an LPN, graduating with my RN in May 2009. I have always wanted to work in oncology...it is my heart's desire. It looks like new grads might not be the first pick to get jobs on the oncology floor, though. Does anyone have suggestions on where might be a good place to begin with oncology being the eventual goal?
Thank you!!

[FromNH2VAwherenext]

Originally Posted by sziq1

ok so it has been a few months since you started on the oncology floor, tell us that graduate in dec. what you think! Is it what you had expected?

I really like our local outpt chemo unit so I am hoping to start on the oncology floor and get my chemo and onc cert. to begin with and then eventually move to the chemo unit.
Do you like what you are doing? I can apply for the job in 2 weeks so I am hoping to get an interview/job soon!

Well, actually I just started orientation at the beginning of this week. As it turns out, my floor is VERY oncology-related (THANK GOODNESS!). I was hired by phone and the Nurse Manager (Interim) told me it was a hodge-podge of stuff: med/surg/tele/onc. I'll keep ya posted, but so far so good.

[Starashe]

I am currently in nursing school trying to focus on Oncology. I graduate 2010.

I am extremely motivated to get into oncology as soon as i graduate (plan to do my senior practicum in oncology) and was wondering if anyone had any suggestions on specific things to do outside of actual school that would benefit me and my chances in getting into oncology.

I have previously cared for a loved one with leukemia (1.5 years) and walked for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Other than that and working in an ICU for 9mos as a CNA II I have no other experience.

Suggestions?

[sziq1]

So I got an interview on the oncology floor that I want to work on this Friday!!!

Wish me luck!!!

[dani_girl]

If possible see if you can do your management rotation on a oncology floor.. but honestly alot of hospitals will take you fresh out of the gate..
My hospital today (just started this week) talked to all of us new orienters that they like taking new grads into the specialties because they can "grow us" how they want.. and that we have a quick learning curve.. so good luck..
as for extra.. see if you could work as a CNA/PCT on an oncology floor before graduation.. or ask your HR dept (where you want to work) what you should do.. she can tell you.. do it early before your entire class (and that of the schools near you) start flooding her door for info.
good luck

[sziq1]

Well I got it! I interviewed friday with hr and tuesday with the onc floor manager and got an offer friday afternoon!!! I am super excited! Now even more pressure to graduate and pass boards!

[dani_girl]

You will do great!!!