Oncology NP

[brittney140]

I'm currently in an associate's nursing program and while I love it and have always wanted to be a nurse, I'm quickly learning that this kind of nursing is not exactly what I want to do.

I'm very interested in becoming an NP, with a specialty in oncology. I'm just curious as to what the scope of practice is with this specialty...as far as diagnosing, treating etc. goes.

Also, will getting an associate's degree first hinder my chances of getting in? I was planning on applying to a BSN program immediately after graduation from this program. Is this a good idea? I wanted to go straight through but, I'm wondering if experience will be more beneficial, maybe before the BSN or after?

Thanks in advance!

[zenman]

You might want to check out UABs Palliative Care Nurse Practitioner program.

[butch228]

I'm a new NP ..about a year out since graduation. I originally thought of becoming an onc NP, I even did clinical rotation thru a Oncology Hosp.

Anyways, most Oncology NP positions want at least 2 years experience of working in oncology..usually as a oncology staff nurse. and most Oncology RN positions want you to have a least 1-2 yrs experience of working on med-surg floor.

Oncology NPs order chemotherapy..in my state , the attending physician will write the initial chemo dose..then subsequent cycles, Onc NP will write those. Essentially, they follow the patient thru the chemo/radiation process and the follow up. NPs are involved in ordering tests, labs, doing bone marrow biopsies, ordering meds.

My advice would be to work as an RN on a oncology flr, to familarize yourself with chemo, the disease process and the type of patients you'll be encountering.

Good luck.