Anyone work in outpatient oncology??

[Soneshine]

Hi,

Would like some opinions. I'm very interested in oncology nursing and am thinking of applying for a job at an oncology outpatient center. I'd like to hear from people who have either worked in oncology or have opinions about it! Would like to know the pros and cons- or anything else regarding this area of nursing. Currently I work in med/surg.

Thanks!

[Idon'tcodgerdodge]

I am a new oncology research nurse, about 4 months now. I enroll patients on clinical trials through the NCI (National Cancer Institute). I work next door to an oncology office of 12 doctors. It is an office/chemo unit. The nurses there seem to really love what they do. They are chemo certified, but most of them don't have their OCN yet. It's like a family back there. I'm sure it's a very rewarding job. Is that what you mean? Administering chemotherapy?

[prowlingMA]

I am an MA at an Outpatient Oncology Center. For the RN I think they really like the patients that we treat, usually they are very nice and really know that what we do is helping to make them better or at least ease their pains. You get the hands on use of your skills without the higher echy of the hospital setting. Plus the hours of 8-5 aren't so bad and weekends off is great for most nurses.

It is hectic, emotional, and busy at times, but very rewarding when you see a survivor coming in for their well check ups. We greive those we loose and celebrate the victories.