New RN on Oncology floor

[HNursing]

Hi,

I am new in the oncology floor. I want to know what type of things I need to prepare before I am going there. How long usually the orientation take for oncology floor? How I know that my floor is following their rule for nursing safety as well as patient safety?

Thanks everyone,

[kayleeray]

I hope to one day work in oncology.

Anyways -- check out the oncology forum!

https://allnurses.com/oncology-nursing/

[LiLBena10]

I started in oncology at a cancer hospital in new york city. it was a great experience and what i can share is that you should look to be paired with a preceptor who you are comfortable with... someone with good habits and safe practice who knows his or her stuff! When you're competent and safe you become confident and an expert professional. It is very overwhelming in the beginning, but you'll get the hang of it and be flying solo safely in no time. Check the hospital policy before you do something and look up anything you're unfamiliar with... Plus asked experienced nurses on the unit that you trust questions. You'll be surprised how happy it makes them to be asked... No matter what the stigmas are out there, most nurses do not want to eat their young... they want to see you succeed and patients receive excellent care... so if you're not sure about something ask! All the best!

[CaLLaCoDe, BSN, RN]

I too am fortunate to be a new oncology nurse, an incredible challenge. 2 TIPs I've learned.

1. I read books for laymen on various issues, say dealing with Hodgkin's Lymphoma or breast cancer. Can give you insight as to how to therapeutically help patients through their trial of chemo and rad therapy by giving them a simple understanding of concepts and helpful tips to deal with emotional struggles that accompany them.

2. Look through charts to see what typical orders you would find for a particular diagnosis and follow up with what typical labs are ordered, diagnostics, meds etc. So that, when you have a patient like this yourself, you might have a clearer understanding of what orders to anticipate or what orders to recommend.

3. Join the ONS, the magazine is wonderful!

I think I am looking at 3 years to become an adequate nurse on the oncology floor. I agree with the poster above, never be afraid to ask questions regarding oncology. Especially since it is such a complex field, no one can know all things always. Smartness is the nurse who plays it safe and does collaborative practice.

Good luck to you, regards!

[blondy2061h, MSN, RN]

Tumor Lysis Labs- CMP, Mag, Phos, LDH, UA. Memorize that.