Oncology NP

[meilia]

Hi there! I'm interested in becoming an oncology NP and will begin a direct entry NP program this fall. I have 3+ years experience as a patient care tech on an oncology/BMT unit. I plan to find a job in oncology nursing once I am an RN to gain bedside experience as I complete my NP program. My question is what track may be the best prep to being an oncology NP--FNP, acute care or primary care? Any job descriptions I read don't specify an NP focus. I've talked to NPs who are FNPs and adult NPs who went into the cancer field. But I am curious what the trend may be there days when places are looking to hire oncology NPs--are they more interested in someone with FNP/primary care or acute care training? Thanks in advance!

[Swellz]

This can be very facility-dependent. Check with the health systems in your surrounding area and see what they are looking for.

[OncologyCat, BSN, RN]

I’m working inpt onc so the two inpt NPs we have on the unit were both trained as Adult-Gero NP. I think in the outpt cancer clinic or infusion clinic FNPs could be more popular, but again it can be facility-dependent

[np830]

Facility and state-dependent. If you ask me, I'd go for ACNP as onc patients I see are sick patients, not well patients coming in requiring BP med adjustment (unless, well, Avastin). ACNP will also open you up to onc ED and onc inpatient opportunities. This isn't to say you can't see onc patients as an ANP, but you may find that you're better trained going the other route.