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.
- Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP®) – role-specific advanced certification for the nurse practitioner in adult oncology
- Advanced Oncology Certified Clinical Nurse Specialist (AOCNS®) – role-specific advanced certification for nurses who practice in the role or roles of the clinical nurse specialist in adult oncology
- Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse (AOCN®) – advanced certification in adult oncology nursing, first offered in 1995 and now available only for renewal by those who currently hold the credential
New Eligibility Pathways for AOCNP® and AOCNS® certification will take effect in 2013. Learn more to discover if you will be eligible for advanced certification.
Role Study of the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse in Oncology – Read the Summary Report of the study that formed the basis of role-specific advanced certification for Nurse Practitioners and Clinical Nurse Specialists 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.