How to become an Onc Nurse?

[bluejays101]

Hi!

I'm very interested in becoming an Oncology Nurse, but I'm not sure the best way to do it, so am looking for any help/advice!

I currently finished a New Grad program and am now full time on a trauma/neurosurgery floor in Ontario. I have never worked or done a placement on an Oncology unit but I recently went through cancer myself, which really peaked my interest in working there.

I see that Canadian colleges have an Oncology nursing program part time, is it worth it? will it help open doors, or is it something to take once finding an Oncology job? Should I get any other certification? and whats the best way to go about looking/applying to jobs? Thanks!!!

[Carol Bush]

First, I highly recommend you take a look at the resources offered through the Oncology Nursing Society. They have some great basics online courses...and of course, their certification is the gold standard. It is a global organization. Many oncology nurses started their career in Med Surg, ICU, Surgery. (I started Med Surg in a rural community hospital, volunteered to start helping the charge nurse coordinate an outpatient clinic with the oncologists when they came 'from the big city'. Fast forward 20 years and I have worked in independent oncology practices, clinical research, complex case management and as a nurse consultant with an NCI Designated Cancer Center. My main point is...look to ONS for evidence based resources, map out a learning plan, be open to caring for cancer patients in your current unit. Look for the top cancer centers or practices in your region, can you develop relationships and spend some time learning about the nursing roles and opportunities in those centers? PS... ONS has a early career membership category. Best Wishes...and keep me posted on your success! - Carol