Help with oncology route during nursing school

[Starashe, BSN, RN]

I am looking for suggestions from current oncology nurses on things that i can do to look better to an employer in the oncology field. Ideally i'd like to start working with oncology patients right out of school so i'm going to start the process now.

suggestions?

[Kora0880, BSN, RN]

Hello,

Personally I woud suggest looking for an internship or volunteer experience on an ONC floor, or even a clinic. Best yet, would be to work as a PCT/CNA on such ward during school if you think that is mangable for you. You can also attend symposiums and classes offered by your local ONC association, hospitals, etc.

Best of luck

PS So why oncology?

[canadiangradschoolrn]

I would say the same as the above. Complete your placement in Oncology. Work at a summer camp for children with cancer. Volunteer for a cancer unit. You can go for conferences on oncology nursing too.

[kikids]

In addition to the above great suggestions, I would suggest calling the hospitals around you, tell them you are a nursing student and would like the opportunity to shadow a nurse on the oncology floor; if they are hesitant suggest that even if it were for four hours that would be appreciated and it would greatly support your education. (Wear student scrubs when you go) Then you will know for sure if you like the unit plus you can then write to the nurse manager afterwards (find out her name) thanking her for allowing you to spend time on the unit and letting her know you will be in contact again closer to graduation -- this way you will be on her radar.

[dreavt, BSN, RN]

In addition to these good suggestions, I'd suggest joining the ONS (www.ons.org) -- they have a student membership rate, and then you have access to all kinds educational resources, CNE, web-based courses, etc. The membership will look good on a resume, and the CNE, etc. will help give you a good knowledge base -- some of the courses may even be worth listing on a resume and/or happening to mention in an interview. If I'd known about the student membership, I would definitely have joined while still in school.

Good luck!

[BBQvegan]

All excellent suggestions! Also, tell your clinical instructor you are very interested in oncology, and ask if you could be assigned any cancer patients during clinicals. Good luck to you!