Advanced Practice

The role of the advanced practice nurse in oncology continues to evolve. ONCC recognizes the importance of certification to advanced practice oncology nurses, and has collected a variety of resources for that may be helpful to nurses who are in an advanced practice role, or considering becoming an oncology advanced practice nurse.

Certification

ONCC has three advanced oncology nursing certification credentials.

New Eligibility Pathways for AOCNP® and AOCNS® certification. Determine if you are eligible for advanced certification.

Role Studies – Read the summary reports of the Role Study of the Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP®) and Advanced Oncology Certified Clinical Nurse Specialist (AOCNS®) that formed the basis of these advanced certifications in adult oncology.

State Recognition of Oncology Certification – Use this quick reference table to determine which states recognize the AOCN®, AOCNP®, and AOCNS® credentials

Regulation – Learn about the latest developments in proposed regulation of APRNs in the Consensus Model for APRN Regulation. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing provides concise and user-friendly information about the new model for APRN regulation, including a short video.

The Role of Advanced Practice Nurses in Oncology Care – “Advanced practice oncology nurses provide leadership to improve outcomes for patients with cancer and their families by increasing healthcare access, promoting clinical excellence, improving patients' quality of life, documenting patient outcomes, and increasing the cost-effectiveness of care.”  Read more of the Oncology Nursing Society’s position on the Role of Advanced Practice Nurses in Oncology Care.