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Pediatric Oncology Nurse

Pediatric oncology nursing is a particularly challenging specialty. It involves dealing with young patients who have been diagnosed with different types of cancer. Because of this select niche, it requires a complex skill set to deal with. Individuals working as a pediatric oncology nurse need to be compassionate and effective at communicating with their patients, and be proficient at handling the medical equipment needed in treatment of cancer.

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As a pediatric oncology nurse, you are in charge of the care of all the patients within a hospital wing. In addition to administering chemotherapy and maintaining accurate records of their health progress, you are also responsible for the general well being of the patient. Furthermore, you can act as a support system for the family of the patient, explaining the various treatment options to them and ensuring that all the necessary paperwork is being taken care of. You must also be thoroughly aware of the different equipment needed to administer proper treatment to the patients.

Becoming a pediatric oncology nurse
Entering into this career option requires basic training to become a registered nurse. Normally, this involves enrolling into a university's Bachelors of nursing degree. Over the course of your degree – normally 4 years – you are taken through the entire theoretical knowledge required for your career, as well as its practical applications. Your understanding of concepts in human anatomy, physiology and biochemistry will be sharpened. In order to facilitate access to the learning materials, an increasing number of medical institutes are offering part or their entire syllabus online for students. This is a convenient option for individuals who already have a job at the moment or are enrolled in other programs of study. A further option of convenience is to sign up for accelerated programs which cover the entire curriculum of a Bachelor's degree in the course of 2 years. In either case, it is important to sign up for a program which is recognized by the State and is teaching a curriculum that is approved of. Otherwise, your time and money will have been to no avail.

Upon completing your degree program, you will have to take a national licensing exam authorizing you to practice your profession legally. This test is called the National Council Licensure Examination for registered nurses (NCLEX – RN) and must be passed before you can enter employment. Employment opportunities themselves range from working in large public or private hospitals to smaller facilities and cancer treatment center.

However, your career as a pediatric oncology nurse does not end here. In order to continue practicing your profession, you will have to take annual examinations to renew your license. These are mandated by the state and are administered to test your proficiency in your chosen career path. With increased experience under your belt, you can also move up the ladder to more senior positions and start handling a department of qualified nurses under you.

While the field of pediatric oncology nursing is challenging, it places you in a very unique position with a very diverse skill set, allowing you to thrive.

Frequently Asked Question(s)

Q:What is pediatric oncology nursing focused on?

A:Pediatric oncology nursing is concerned with providing care for children who suffer from cancer. These nurses along with the professional training should be good at dealing with kids. The job would include knowledge of cancer treatment processes that would include the administration of chemotherapy and training for helping children cope with the side effects.

Q:How long can an oncology nurse certification take?

A:Duration of an oncology nurse certification varies depending on the type of study you are undertaking. It can last for a few months, a year or at times longer than that. It is only after basic nursing education that you can take an oncology nurse certification as it is more focused and complex. There are various areas of oncology and you need to be updated on the latest knowledge in that area, in this regard these certifications are quite helpful.

Q:What can I expect to study from pediatric oncology nursing schools?

A:Pediatric oncology nursing schools focuses on nursing practices in relation to children who are suffering from cancer. You may get to study human anatomy, physiology, cancer treatments, pediatric nursing concepts, managing symptoms and side effects. Along with clinical nursing you also need to have knowledge of delivering infusion treatments and administration of chemotherapy.

Q:Can you give me some online information about Pediatric Oncology Nurse?

A:If you want to be a pediatric oncology nurse, you will first need to be a registered nurse. It will take around four years to acquire theoretical knowledge as well as practical skills. You can also opt for an accelerated program which covers the entire curriculum of a bachelor's degree in two years. After completing your degree, you will have to take a licensing exam that will allow you to practice your profession.

Q:Can an adult oncology nurse cover pediatric oncology patients?

A:Pediatric oncology is a particularly challenging specialty. Entering into the career requires becoming a registered nurse. This usually involves obtaining a four year long bachelor's degree. Apart from the degree program, candidates are also required to take a national licensing exam. This license needs to be renewed almost every year.

Q:What does a pediatric oncology nurse practitioner do?

A:A pediatric nurse who specializes in oncology basically treats children with cancer. These practitioners specialize in providing primary care to children receiving treatment for cancer. Pediatric oncology nurses can be found working in all kinds of healthcare institutions such as hospitals and clinics. If you want to know more, take a look at our page.

Q:What is the meaning of pediatric nursing in oncology?

A:Pediatric nurses are professionals who treat young children with cancer. Nursing is a broad field that comprises of many different branches as oncology. Individuals who enjoy working with infants and wish to help those suffering from cancer can opt for a career as an oncology nurse. More details can be found on our page.

Q:What are the skills required by a pediatric oncology nurse practitioner?

A:Pediatric oncology nursing is a challenging field. You need several skills to deal with young patients who have been diagnosed with cancer. It is required for pediatric oncology nurse practitioners to communicate effectively and have a compassionate behavior. They also need to be proficient at handling the medical equipment for treatment of cancer.

Q:What will be my duties as a pediatric oncology nurse?

A:As a pediatric oncology nurse, you will be in charge of taking care of all the young patients within a hospital wing. You will be responsible for the general well being of patients, apart from administering chemotherapy and maintaining a record of their health progress. You will also need to work on various equipments to provide proper treatment to patients.

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