Hematology / Oncology Nursing

This area of nursing can be heartbreaking and rewarding at the same time. Nurses in this area usually work on a hospital unit and are certified in BLS (Basic Life Support, at the Provider Level), ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) and PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support) if they are working on a children's cancer ward. Nurses on this unit also become certified to administer chemotherapy agents. The nurse must take extra care when working with these agents, as they may be toxic to staff and family members. Special gloves and gowns must be worn. Visitors may be restricted, or an outside perimeter for contact with the patient, established if a cancer drug must be implanted in the patient as well. Sensitivity to tensions created within the patient and family members when a patient has cancer is required for oncology units. Counseling for end of life issues and advanced directives such as a Living Will and Durable Healthcare Power of Attorney are subjects in which the nurse must be well versed.

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