Oncology Infusion Nurse Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the modern world of healthcare, the role of oncology infusion nurses has become increasingly significant.

Medical advancements continue to progress, and with each development, the demand for skilled professionals who can administer, monitor, and manage chemotherapy treatments intensifies.

But let’s dig deeper: What’s truly expected from an oncology infusion nurse?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the depth of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the intricate aspects of oncology infusion nursing,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable oncology infusion nurse job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Oncology Infusion Nurse Duties and Responsibilities

Oncology Infusion Nurses specialize in providing chemotherapy and other infusion treatments to patients diagnosed with cancer.

They are responsible for monitoring patients, managing symptoms, and providing emotional support during treatment.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Evaluating the patient’s health status and medical history
• Administering chemotherapy and other medications via intravenous infusion
• Monitoring patient during infusion treatments for reactions and complications
• Collaborating with oncologists and other healthcare professionals to develop a patient-centered plan of care
• Providing education to patients and their families about the infusion process, potential side effects, and self-care strategies
• Supporting patients emotionally, addressing their concerns and fears about treatment
• Assessing and managing side effects and symptoms related to cancer treatment
• Documenting all treatments, observations, and updates in the patient’s medical records
• Keeping up to date with the latest oncology nursing research and applying new knowledge to patient care
• Maintaining the safety, sterility, and cleanliness of the infusion area

 

Oncology Infusion Nurse Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Oncology Infusion Nurse to join our healthcare team.

The Oncology Infusion Nurse will specialize in the administration of medications and therapies through intravenous (IV) infusions to patients diagnosed with cancer.

The successful candidate will be responsible for monitoring patient reactions, educating patients and their families about treatment processes and potential side effects, and providing emotional support.

 

Responsibilities

• Administer chemotherapy and other medication infusions
• Monitor patient responses to treatment
• Educate patients and their families on their treatment plan and side effects
• Coordinate with the multi-disciplinary team to provide holistic care
• Conduct physical assessments, vital signs and symptom management
• Maintain accurate, detailed reports and records
• Adhere to infection-control protocols
• Provide emotional support to patients and their families

 

Qualifications

• Registered Nurse (RN) with a valid nursing license
• Minimum of two years’ experience in oncology nursing
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
• Experience in IV therapy and chemotherapy administration
• Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) certification is preferred
• Comprehensive knowledge of cancer diseases and treatments
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to provide emotional support to patients and their families
• Bachelor’s degree in Nursing

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Oncology Infusion Nurse
• Work Environment: Hospital or outpatient oncology clinic. Requires long periods of standing and patient interaction.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Charge Nurse or Nurse Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $90,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Oncology Infusion Nurse Do?

Oncology Infusion Nurses specialize in providing care for cancer patients.

These nurses work specifically with patients who are undergoing chemotherapy and other infusion treatments.

They are responsible for administering medication, monitoring patient’s reactions to treatment, and educating patients and their families about the process and possible side effects.

Oncology Infusion Nurses work closely with oncologists and other medical professionals to develop and implement treatment plans.

They must also ensure patients’ comfort during treatments and respond to any complications that may arise.

These nurses also play a crucial role in the emotional support of patients and their families, offering comfort and encouragement throughout the treatment process.

In addition to their clinical duties, Oncology Infusion Nurses also conduct research and keep abreast of the latest developments in cancer treatment to provide the best possible care to their patients.

 

Oncology Infusion Nurse Qualifications and Skills

An Oncology Infusion Nurse must possess a variety of skills and qualifications to provide the best care for cancer patients undergoing infusion therapy.

These include:

• Extensive knowledge of oncology and infusion therapy to administer treatments accurately and safely to patients.
• Proficiency in patient assessment to monitor and manage patient’s response during and after infusion therapy.
• Strong interpersonal skills to establish trust and build relationships with patients and their families during a stressful and emotional time.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively convey complex medical information to patients and their families, and to collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals.
• Compassion and patience to support patients who may be dealing with the physical and emotional toll of cancer and its treatment.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills to quickly respond to changes in patient conditions or adverse reactions to treatments.
• Technical skills to handle medical equipment and administer treatments.
• Organizational skills to manage patient care plans, keeping accurate records, and coordinating with other healthcare professionals.

 

Oncology Infusion Nurse Experience Requirements

Entry-level Oncology Infusion Nurse candidates generally require a minimum of 1-2 years of nursing experience, often gained through internships or part-time roles in a clinical setting.

These professionals usually begin by working in general nursing or medical-surgical nursing to gain essential experience and skills.

Specializing in oncology infusion nursing often requires additional certification and training.

This typically involves gaining experience in a chemotherapy infusion setting or a similar environment, where they have the opportunity to familiarize themselves with oncology-specific procedures and treatments.

Candidates with more than 3 years of nursing experience generally have advanced technical skills and a deeper understanding of oncology infusion nursing.

They may be adept at handling chemotherapy drugs, managing patient reactions, and understanding oncology-specific protocols and procedures.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in oncology infusion nursing may have leadership experience and could be prepared for supervisory roles, such as Charge Nurse or Nurse Manager in an oncology department.

These professionals often have extensive experience in patient care, team coordination, and oncology nursing protocol development.

 

Oncology Infusion Nurse Education and Training Requirements

Becoming an Oncology Infusion Nurse requires a bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited nursing program.

Upon graduation, the candidate must pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse) to become a licensed registered nurse.

Registered nurses looking to specialize in oncology may choose to complete an oncology nursing certification program, which provides further specialized training in chemotherapy administration, symptom management, and palliative care.

Certification is optional but can show competence and dedication in the field.

The Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC) provides various certifications including the Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) and Certified Pediatric Hematology Oncology Nurse (CPHON).

Nurses often need at least a year or two of experience as an RN before they can apply for a position as an Oncology Infusion Nurse.

Furthermore, ongoing professional development and continuing education are necessary to keep pace with advancements in cancer treatment and care.

This can include participating in seminars, training programs, and conferences.

Some positions may also require a master’s degree in nursing or a related field, particularly for those interested in leadership or advanced practice roles.

 

Oncology Infusion Nurse Salary Expectations

An Oncology Infusion Nurse earns an average salary of $89,853 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can differ greatly based on certifications, education, experience level, and location of employment.

The scope of the employer, such as private practice versus a public hospital, can also impact the salary range significantly.

 

Oncology Infusion Nurse Job Description FAQs

What skills does an oncology infusion nurse need?

Oncology infusion nurses need extensive knowledge about various types of cancer and the medications used in treatment.

They require excellent communication skills to explain complex medical information to patients and their families.

These nurses should be compassionate and emotionally resilient due to the nature of their work.

They also need strong technical skills for administering chemotherapy and other medications and for operating medical equipment.

 

What qualifications does an oncology infusion nurse need?

A Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing is typically required, along with passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

They should also have experience in oncology nursing and may need to earn specialized certifications, such as Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) or Certified Pediatric Hematology Oncology Nurse (CPHON).

 

What should you look for in an oncology infusion nurse resume?

An oncology infusion nurse resume should showcase a nursing degree, licensure, and specialty certification.

It should also highlight experience in oncology nursing, specifically in infusion therapy.

Look for knowledge of chemotherapy drugs, patient care, and symptom management.

Skills in patient education and emotional support are also important.

 

What qualities make a good oncology infusion nurse?

A good oncology infusion nurse is compassionate, understanding, and patient as they often deal with individuals in distressing situations.

They need to be detail-oriented, meticulous in administering medications, and monitoring patient reactions.

Good communication skills are key for educating patients about treatment and side effects.

They should also be emotionally resilient to cope with the challenges of working with cancer patients.

 

What are the daily duties of an oncology infusion nurse?

An oncology infusion nurse typically starts the day by assessing the health status of cancer patients.

They administer chemotherapy or other infusion treatments, monitor patient reactions, and manage any side effects.

These nurses spend a significant amount of time educating patients and their families about the treatment process.

They also coordinate with doctors and other healthcare professionals to develop and adjust treatment plans.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the crucial role of an oncology infusion nurse.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about administering chemotherapy.

It’s about providing compassionate care and support, one patient at a time.

With our comprehensive oncology infusion nurse job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to step into this rewarding profession.

But why halt your journey here?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your key to precision-crafted job listings or honing your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every patient interaction is a part of the bigger healthcare picture.

Let’s make a difference. Together.

How to Become an Oncology Infusion Nurse (Complete Guide)

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