What Does an Oncology Nurse Do?
Oncology nurse jobs involve caring for patients as part of a team led by oncologist physicians or nurse practitioners (NPs). They may also supervise nursing assistants. Key skills and responsibilities for oncology nurses include:
Primary Responsibilities
- Monitoring patient progress and updating patient records
- Administering treatment prescribed by physicians and NPs
- Educating patients on treatment and preventing recurrence
- Facilitating patient-physician communication
- Providing emotional and psychological support to patients and families
Key Skills
- Empathy
- Communication
- Collaboration
- Continual learning
Where Do Oncology Nurses Work?
Oncology nurses primarily work in hospitals, standalone cancer treatment facilities, hospice care facilities, and physician's practices.
Hospitals
Oncology nurses in hospitals work with inpatients and outpatients, assist with treatments and operations, and monitor patient progress.
Standalone Facilities
In standalone facilities, these nurses facilitate communications and update health records with primary care providers, educate patients and families, and prepare patients for discharge.
Hospice Care
Oncology nurses working in hospice care facilities assist terminal patients, administer palliative treatments, and support patients psychologically.
Why Become an Oncology Nurse?
Oncology nurse jobs can be both emotionally rewarding and stressful, especially for pediatric oncology nurses. However, as cancer care continues to improve, oncology nursing presents more rewarding opportunities for employment. Salaries for these nurses typically rank above national averages.
Advantages to Becoming an Oncology Nurse
Disadvantages to Becoming an Oncology Nurse
How to Become an Oncology Nurse
Concentrations and Certifications
Pediatric Oncology Nurse
Certified pediatric oncology nurses care for children and adolescents who have cancer. They also provide treatment and emotional support for patients and families.
Pediatric Hematology Oncology Nurse
Pediatric hematology oncology nurses specialize in treating children with leukemia and other cancers that affect the blood. They often administer chemotherapy.
Breast Care Nurse
Breast care nurses support patients during breast cancer treatment and help to educate them on preventing recurrences.
Blood and Marrow Transplant Nurse
Blood and marrow transplant nurses help patients prepare for transplants, administer transplants, monitor progress, and educate patients on their ongoing needs.
How Much Do Oncology Nurses Make?
Oncology nursing jobs, like nursing jobs in general, pay above the U.S. average, with an average salary of $85,936, according to Payscale data as of November 2025. In 2024, the highest paid 10% of all RNs earned a median salary of more than $135,320.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects RN employment to grow faster than average, increasing 5% from 2024-2034. With cancer rates projected to increase as the U.S. population ages, oncology nurse jobs will likely keep pace.
Resources for Oncology Nurses
Frequently Asked Questions About Oncology Nurses
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