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What Does an Oncology Nurse Do?

Oncology nurses work in medical facilities--both hospitals and private clinics--to help patients with pain management, explain procedures and options, and assist doctors. Most oncology nurses are registered nurses (RNs), holding either a bachelor's, associate's, or diploma from a focused oncology nursing degree program.

Because of the wide variety of cancer, there are sub-specialties within oncology, but most oncology nurses maintain an array of knowledge. Oncology nurses can also choose between pediatric oncology, adult oncology, or geriatric oncology.

Education & Training Required to Become an Oncology Nurse

As for any RN, there are options as far as oncology nursing degree programs. An RN can work toward a four-year bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), a two-year associate's degree, or a diploma from a certified nursing program, and each comes with pros and cons. A BSN can lead to better job prospects, but is more expensive and time-consuming. Associate's and diploma programs are quicker and cheaper, but can limit a graduate's options.

Once a student decides to become an oncology nurse, he or she can pursue an online degree program, but generally nursing schools require some real-world experience and practical training. Theoretical classroom work can only take a nurse so far.

Typical Characteristics of an Oncology Nurse

Working with cancer patients can be stressful and intensely emotional, particularly because oncology nurses may have to handle family situations. Fighting cancer is a difficult battle, and oncology nurses are generally tough, caring individuals who understand the difficulties of the field. Because of the nature of oncology, nurses work with patients over an extended period of time, with a wide age-range of patients. It's not only elderly people who get cancer, though many clinics focus on a specific demographic.

High Demand for Oncology Nurses

Because cancer research is a fast-growing field, oncology nurses are in high demand. Registered nurses earn a median annual salary of over $62,000, and can earn significantly more with further education and experience. Oncology is an ever-changing field, so if the idea of a dynamic practice appeals to you, you may be the perfect candidate for an oncology nursing degree program. Be prepared for devastation and triumph, and for a fight whose odds will continue to shift in humanity's favor.