Starting a new job in Oncology

[Central WI RN]

After being an RN only a short time (less than 2 years - medical floor) I am taking a job in outpatient medical oncology. I am very excited and of course want to be the best oncology nurse I can be. What advice do you experienced oncology nurses have for me that will help me make this transition and give the best patient care possible.

Thanks - I appreciate all your advice.

[happynurse1]

hi there..i am a bmt/oncology nurse. i work in bmt but have done some oncology...only inpatient. my best advice to you is be patient and caring. these patients are going thru so much. but they so appreciate you and all you do. when you are hurried and tired and wanting to get home, someone will need you to reassure them. just stop and take the time to listen. they have so many questions. you will need to keep yourself up to date on the latest information and advances because they will know them! these patients are so informed about their health and how things are going for them. teach them to question and keep a copy of all their blood counts. they need to know when their wbc and platelets drop. teach them when to avoid fresh flowers, fresh fruits, etc. the importance of good hygiene and staying away from sick people. make sure that their nausea is under control and they have no pain. notice when their hair grows back and tell them how good they look..that is so important to them. good luck!! oncology is wonderful!! and you grow to love your patients!