Introduction
A crucial part of the healthcare sector is nursing, and graduates from nursing programs can pick from a wide range of specialties. Oncology, where nurses interact with cancer patients, is one of the most difficult but rewarding fields of nursing (Wazqar, 2019). This article focuses on the statistics and demographics of recent nursing school graduates who choose to work in oncology, the advantages and disadvantages, and the qualifications needed to become an oncology nurse. This study aims to provide a thorough overview of the demographics and statistics of recent nursing school graduates who work in oncology and investigate the advantages and drawbacks of working in the profession. The research also emphasizes the training and licensing specifications needed for those seeking to qualify as oncology nurses.
Statistical and Demographic Data
The Sustainable Development Goals to offer universal health coverage and reduce non-communicable disease mortality by one-third by 2030 depend on the global oncology nurse workforce (Challinor et al., 2020). A study by Alrasheedi et al. (2019) examined the variables affecting existing and future nurses’ intentions to pursue a career in oncology nursing. Intentions to work in oncology by 43.9% of the sample (n=208) showed positivity toward helping those who are dying was one factor that was an important determinant of intent to work in oncology.
Sürücü et al. (2021) discovered in another study that nursing students who pick oncology as their specialty frequently have personal ties to cancer, such as knowing relatives diagnosed with the condition. This shows that choosing to concentrate on oncology was influenced by emotional issues. So far, these statistics highlight the emotional challenges that come with caring for patients with cancer.
Generally, according to Zippia (2023), around 21,652 oncology nurses are working in the U.S., with 91.1% being women and 8.9% being men. The average age of these nurses is 43 years old. Furthermore, research by Kapucu & Bulut (2018) found that 80.6% (n=129) of student nurses said dealing with cancer patients was tough. Patients declining their treatment and interaction issues were among the challenges faced. This clarifies the reason there are so few graduate nurses working in the field of oncology.
Benefits of Working in Oncology
For medical professionals, a career in oncology can be incredibly fulfilling. Firstly, oncology is a continually developing discipline, with new technology and therapies appearing frequently. Oncology specialists in the medical area keep up with the most recent developments and research, which might open up prospects for professional improvement (Chidharla et al., 2022).
Secondly, oncology’s collaborative work environment can offer opportunities to collaborate with and learn from other medical specialists. Thirdly, there is a significant demand for people with the required qualifications due to the expanding need for oncology nurses alongside other physicians specializing in treating cancer patients (Tafjord, 2021). Working in healthcare gives professionals the chance to improve the lives of patients as well as their loved ones, which can be deeply rewarding.
Challenges of Working in Oncology
Working with cancer patients can be emotionally taxing because healthcare personnel often develop close relationships with their patients and their loved ones. Healthcare providers may experience severe emotional distress when they observe patients and families dealing with the psychological and physical repercussions of cancer. The first major obstacle was a sense of connection to patients and difficulty between job and home life, according to a study by Alzoubi et al. (2019).
The second challenge dealt with organizational issues at work, such as a lack of orientation sessions, a paucity of nursing staff and supplies, and nurses’ limited ability to advise patients about their illnesses. Oncology specialists may also have a lot of work to do because cancer treatment frequently necessitates regular appointments and continual monitoring. Long hours and a lot of stress may result from this.
Oncology Nurse Requirements
The requirements for being an oncology nurse include oncology-specific education, licensure, and registered nurse (RN) training. A graduate degree from a nurse practitioner program with a concentration in oncology is required to work as an oncology nurse practitioner. One will acquire knowledge about cancer detection and prevention techniques while enrolled in the NP program. The effects of cancer treatment, as well as its symptoms, are addressed in the courses. Learning how to treat patients at various stages of ailment or recovery is necessary (Coombs et al., 2020).
In addition, training will be provided on how to assist them with pain control, one of the most important aspects of cancer treatment. Although it is not necessarily necessary to be certified to work in oncology, it is frequently favored by companies and can result in more career prospects and greater income. Several oncology nurse certificates are available through the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC). Nurses must satisfy specified academic and experience criteria, as well as pass a certification exam, in order to be certified.
Conclusion
Conclusively, the field of oncology offers nursing graduates a profitable but challenging professional path. Despite the emotional strain that comes with working with cancer patients, there are numerous benefits to working in this field, including the opportunity to improve patient lives and the potential for career progress. Nursing graduates must possess a strong educational foundation, specific training, license, and certification in order to practice in oncology-related occupations. Nursing graduates can succeed in the field of oncology nursing if they are dedicated to continuing their education and providing compassionate care. They have the power to significantly impact the quality of life of patients and their families.
References
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