Oncology Nursing Certification Review

Oncology Nursing Certification Review is a structured continuing education course designed to support nurses preparing for oncology certification exams and those seeking to strengthen their foundational knowledge in cancer care. Aligned with the content areas covered in nationally recognized oncology nursing certification standards, this course provides an in-depth overview of cancer pathophysiology, evidence-based treatment modalities, symptom management, and the psychosocial aspects of cancer care.

The curriculum is intended for registered nurses working in oncology, infusion centers, radiation therapy units, palliative care, and other cancer care settings. It covers critical content needed for safe, effective, and compassionate oncology nursing practice. Pharmacologic interventions, patient education, and clinical judgment are emphasized throughout the course to support advanced nursing performance and improved patient outcomes.

Topics covered include:

Cancer Pathophysiology and Epidemiology: Overview of cellular biology, tumor classification, staging, and trends in cancer incidence and risk factors.

Treatment Modalities: Mechanisms and clinical application of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and hormonal treatment.

Pharmacologic Considerations: Chemotherapeutic drug classes, safe handling protocols, dosing principles, and management of adverse effects.

Symptom and Side Effect Management: Evidence-based approaches to managing pain, nausea, fatigue, mucositis, neutropenia, anemia, and psychosocial distress.

Oncologic Emergencies: Recognition and initial management of critical conditions such as tumor lysis syndrome, spinal cord compression, and febrile neutropenia.

Psychosocial and Supportive Care: Communication strategies, survivorship care, end-of-life considerations, and addressing the emotional needs of patients and families.

Professional Practice and Certification Domains: Review of the core domains from the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC) exam blueprint, including coordination of care, education, and professional performance.

Completion Requirements:

To receive full CE credit, participants must:

• Register for the course.
• Complete all course modules and assigned readings.
• Pass the post-test with a score of 70% or higher.
• Submit a completed course evaluation.

Optional reference tools include anatomic diagrams, dosage charts, and a digital nerve block checklist.

Important Disclosures:

• Conflict of Interest: Faculty and planners report no relevant financial relationships.
• Commercial Support: This activity received no external commercial funding or sponsorship.
• Non-Endorsement: Accreditation does not imply endorsement of any commercial products or companies.
• Off-Label Product Use: Any mention of off-label drug use is consistent with current clinical guidelines and evidence-based practice.