Confused about APRN options in Oncology

PNW~NP · Jan 17, 2016

I am currently an FNP student, but I have been an oncology nurse for 13 years and plan to continue in oncology when I complete my program. There are a few NP programs that have specialty certifications in oncology (Duke and Yale both have one I believe), but this is in addition to obtaining your FNP.

My suggestion is to get several years of experience in oncology as an RN before going on to get your APRN. Although it is not a requirement for all NP programs, it will likely be necessary when searching for a job in a specialty such as oncology. It will also be of benefit to you and your patients.

Oncology NPs work alongside the Oncologist. The NPs in my practice see patients for side effect management, round on patients in the hospital and see patients for toxicity checks and chemotherapy dose adjustments between appointments with their Oncologist (among other things).

I would also highly recommend getting your Oncology Nursing Certification (OCN) once you are working in oncology (you have to have 1000 hrs in oncology to take the certification exam).

If you decided to get your APRN you can get your Advanced practice OCN (AOCN) certification.

I would also do some more research on the roles and job descriptions of NP and CNS to help you decide which route is best for you.

First step after graduation, try to get a job in either outpatient or inpatient oncology, obtain your OCN, and work towards your BSN.

Hope this helps:)

Trauma Columnist · Jan 17, 2016

Moved to student NP forum

theStephmonster · Jan 18, 2016

I am currently an FNP student, but I have been an oncology nurse for 13 years and plan to continue in oncology when I complete my program. There are a few NP programs that have specialty certifications in oncology (Duke and Yale both have one I believe), but this is in addition to obtaining your FNP.
My suggestion is to get several years of experience in oncology as an RN before going on to get your APRN. Although it is not a requirement for all NP programs, it will likely be necessary when searching for a job in a specialty such as oncology. It will also be of benefit to you and your patients.
Oncology NPs work alongside the Oncologist. The NPs in my practice see patients for side effect management, round on patients in the hospital and see patients for toxicity checks and chemotherapy dose adjustments between appointments with their Oncologist (among other things).
I would also highly recommend getting your Oncology Nursing Certification (OCN) once you are working in oncology (you have to have 1000 hrs in oncology to take the certification exam).
If you decided to get your APRN you can get your Advanced practice OCN (AOCN) certification.
I would also do some more research on the roles and job descriptions of NP and CNS to help you decide which route is best for you.
First step after graduation, try to get a job in either outpatient or inpatient oncology, obtain your OCN, and work towards your BSN.
Hope this helps:)

This was very helpful, thank you so much! I really appreciate your time in helping me understand where to start. :)