New Grad wants to be an Oncology RN

[FromNH2VAwherenext]

I will be graduating in May 2008 with a BSN (God willin' and the creek don't rise!). From the jobs I've located so far in oncology, it seems that they require 3 years of prior med/surg or inpatient RN experience. I don't have that experience; however, I can't discount the fact that I was an outpatient scheduling secretary for a major cancer ctr in NH for pts on clinical trials. I am at least familiar with the names of various chemos; what to look for in labs (i.e. WBCs, plts, etc.). Is anyone aware of any hospitals in the nursing compact that are willing to train a highly motivated, critical thinking new grad? Thanks in advance.

[Katie91]

Thanks for the tips for starting my oncology job. Yes, I'll definitely bring my heart! I'm really hoping my psych experience will help. I am still worried about how I'll adjust. I will need to do end-of-life care, and that is going to be very different.

I don't know about going so far as to pray with anyone, though. I will certainly encourage my patients to use, and help them obtain, whatever spiritual resources they want. I will have to think about it, but right now I cannot see myself participating. Regardless of hospital policy. I'm sure nurses have differing views on this issue.

Hi chessie9,

Prayer is such a personal thing. And no, you shouldn't do it if you're uncomfortable with it, and you should ALWAYS ask the pt's or families permission before you pray with them, or it can turn out to be a real awkward situation!

End of life issues, just like some psych issues I'm sure you've encountered, are oftentimes heart-wrenching for us nurses. The nurse who doesn't show any emotion simply has no business being a nurse any longer. But you chose to be an oncology nurse for a reason ~ you'll be just fine and you'll instinctively know what to do. Always trust your gut.

:wink2:

[bugbugrn]

Hi Everyone,

I am currently working as an RN on a rehab unit in a local hospital. Although I love my job, my heart is set on working as an oncology nurse. The truth is that that oncology/hematology was my main reason to pursue nursing. I had a personal experience at a very young age where I was a recipient of a BMT. Ever since then, even after graduating with a bachelor's in biology, i wanted to change my career and get more involved in healthcare and being able to contribute to society.

I am currently enrolled in a BSN program, so my options will broaden. Meanwhile, I want to get some experience with infusion and become chemo certified. Does anyone have any advice on how I could do something like that?