How to get into Oncology Nursing

SoldierNurse22, BSN, RN · Mar 27, 2014

Honestly, you may have to work a job in a hospital that you don't particularly enjoy for a few years, then apply to the oncology wards again. Many hospitals will want you to have at least some grasp on the basics of nursing before they add all the oncology stuff on top of it.

Keeping in contact with the hospital you precepted at isn't a bad idea. Did you get to know the manager while you were there? Getting hired really isn't always about what you know, but who you know. Those bonds can be invaluable in a job search.

Also, if you have the flexibility to move, you may be able to find a job in oncology outside of your area, but that all depends on how willing you'd be to move for a job.

OCNRN63, RN · Mar 27, 2014

Have you joined your local chapter of ONS? That could be another way to network. At the very least you can earn CEUs at the chapter meetings.

ky_rn · Mar 30, 2014

I think it also depends on where you live. I also just graduated in December of 2013 and was just hired on as an oncology RN. I have no experience with oncology but let them know that I was willing to learn

cat1235 · Nov 4, 2014

I think it just depends on where you live. I'm sure the ONS thing and the certificate you're completing will look great!!! Those things will definitely increase your chances. I also want to get into oncology nursing. (I graduate in December). I know here in Columbia, SC they hire new grads into oncology. However, I was told by my instructor that they DON'T take new grads into peds oncology which is what I want the most. I'm moving to Vermont though so whatever.

I've also heard of new grads getting into peds oncology in other places, so ... my point is, it really differs from state to state apparently about whether new grads are accepted into oncology. Seems like you have some things on your side though that will help you, and since many states do hire new grads, if you are willing to move out of state, I think you would have a good chance.

rntransition727 · Nov 4, 2014

Move to TN. My hospital will hire, but that unit does much more than oncology. That floor is a cluster...

Jmichael11 · Nov 23, 2014

I've always been interested in Oncology. Getting out of school, the only position I could find after 3 months of searching was at a nursing home, but with 4 months of experience on my I was able to land a position at a big name hospital in oncology, with which I have no experience. I had a lot of experience with ports and PICC lines in the nursing home, which are big things in oncology, so I believe that, and my letters of recommendation really helped me with getting the position.

I wish you the best of luck in getting what you desire. I didn't find LTC rewarding, but helping individuals in a time of crisis I find one of the most fulfilling positions.

DatMurse · Nov 29, 2014

I am currently working in a Medical/oncology unit so I am doing general hospitalization and then jumping into my specialty.

This is something to think about. I am now giving chemotherapy. Many of my patients can have a medical diagnosis and an oncology comorbidity and vice versa.