Oncology Nurse jobs

Purpose and Mission

Oncology nurses are healthcare professionals who manage and administer the care of patients with cancer. These specialists monitor the condition of a patient, administer medicines, as well as develop care plans and symptom management protocols.

The job of an oncology nurse can be stressful, but they are supported by the long-term relationships they can develop with patients and their caregivers.

The primary responsibilities of oncology nurses include direct patient care, consulting, educating patients, research, and management. These trained professionals work closely with doctors and other members of the healthcare team to optimize patient outcomes.

Reports To

Most oncology nurses are employed in hospitals or clinics, and often report to a nursing supervisor or department head. In some cases, oncology nurses may report directly to a doctor leading a patient’s healthcare team.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Although most acute care nurse roles do not involve direct supervisory responsibilities, there are some exceptions, especially relating to training of new ICU nurses. Oncology nurses frequently take on management or administrative roles or move on to become advanced practice nurses.

Qualifications

Oncology nurses are nearly always registered nurses (typically having earned a bachelor’s degree). RNs must have a current Nursing Registration with the AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioners Agency) to work directly with patients.

In most cases, some prior experience in nursing on oncology is necessary to become an oncology nurse. Some general practice nurses choose to take specialized training or earn a certification to move into oncology nursing.

Responsibilities of an Oncology Nurse

The main duties of oncology nursing professionals include:

• Working with other members of the healthcare team to develop individual care plans for cancer patients
• Collaborating with a multidisciplinary healthcare team to share knowledge and improve outcomes
• Helping diagnose, identify and treat cancer-related health issues, including physical therapy and nutrition
• Working with a team to undertake cancer research to improve treatment protocols for cancer patients
• Providing resources to help support patients and their families so they can maintain a positive outlook and good morale
• Educating patients and their families about treatments and side effects
• Monitoring the progress and health status of patients on an ongoing basis
• Documenting responses to medication and other treatments by patients.

Over time, oncology nurses have come to provide a wide variety of services, including direct care, cancer screening and prevention, as well as rehabilitation, palliative and supportive services. Those who specialize in working with children with cancer are called paediatric oncology nurses.