[Tara G]

Hello,

I am looking for some information on oncology specialization in nursing. I will start the LPN program in the fall but have completed all the prerequisits for both the LPN and RN programs so plan to do them back to back. My grandmother died of melanoma and was hospitalized in My parents home the year before she died. I remeber and deeply admire the nurses who came and gave her care. I would like to be a part of such a team. Any constructive help or advice would be much appreciated.

Thank You
Tara

[efiebke]

First off, I want to welcome you to "Allnurses.com". I see that this is your first post!

So sad to read about your grandmother passing away. It seems, though, that she died surrounded by her loving family members and caring nurses.

You may want to try out this particular web site:

Oncology Nursing Society

Hopefully there will be information there that might help answer your questions and prepare you for career's future.

Ted

[pugluvnrn]

Hi!
I took the CPON (Certified Pediatric Oncology Nurse) exam last year. I believe the the same requirements are in place for the adult- You need to be an RN for at least 2 years and 2 years of Oncology experience. I had only been an RN for 3 years when I took the test.
It was HARD but my test had alot of growth and development as well as late effects that you probably won't get if you take the adult test.
It was MUCH harder than the boards but it was made easier by a review class and we formed study groups. It's about $300 to take but usually your hospital will pay for it. I started studyinbg about 3 months before I took it. You know, it was the one of the best things I ever did- the knowledge has really increased my ability to do teaching to the families.
Good Luck!