What are the basic requirements to become an oncology nurse?
GB & VM: An oncology nurse must be a graduate of a nursing program and licensed as an RN. Q: Some oncology nurses have additional certifications, such as oncology certified nurse (OCN) and advanced oncology certified nurse (AOCN). What do these certifications mean and what are the requirements? GB & VM: Certification validates a nurse’s qualifications and knowledge in a defined area of nursing. It is a voluntary process and granted by a nongovernmental agency. Certification signifies that a nurse has developed specialty knowledge beyond the entry level. A candidate for certification must meet specific eligibility requirements for experience as an oncology nurse and pass a multiple choice test. The options for certification in oncology nursing are: OCN, AOCN, advanced oncology certified nurse practitioner (AOCNP), advanced oncology certified clinical nurse specialist (AOCNS), certified pediatric oncology nurse (CPON), and new in 2009, certified breast care nurse (CBCN). Q: What are some
