Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of healthcare, the focus on Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioners has never been more crucial.

As medical advancements continue to progress, the need for compassionate and knowledgeable professionals to guide our youngest patients through their cancer journey becomes increasingly vital.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to understand the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of pediatric oncology nursing,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive in.

Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner Duties and Responsibilities

Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioners are specialized healthcare professionals who provide care and treatment for children and adolescents with cancer.

They are involved in every stage of treatment, from diagnosis through therapy and beyond.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Evaluating and diagnosing pediatric patients with cancer
• Developing and implementing treatment plans in collaboration with a team of healthcare professionals
• Administering chemotherapy, medications, and other treatments to pediatric patients
• Monitoring and documenting patients’ response to treatment
• Providing education and support to patients and their families regarding diagnoses, treatment plans, and any side effects or complications of treatment
• Conducting regular follow-ups with patients to assess their recovery and general health
• Coordinating with a multidisciplinary team to ensure comprehensive patient care
• Staying updated with the latest advancements in pediatric oncology treatment methods
• Assisting in the management of symptoms and side effects of cancer and its treatment
• Referring patients to other healthcare professionals or services as needed
• Ensuring adherence to pediatric oncology protocols and standards of care

 

Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner to join our team.

In this role, you will be responsible for providing specialized care to children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer, monitoring their condition, administering treatment, and providing support to patients and their families.

The Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner will work alongside a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals and should have a strong understanding of pediatric oncology, chemotherapy protocols, and symptom management.

 

Responsibilities

• Assess patient condition by monitoring vital signs and symptoms
• Administer chemotherapy and other necessary treatments under the direction of a physician
• Provide palliative care and pain management
• Educate patients and families about treatment plans and potential side effects
• Coordinate care with other healthcare professionals
• Document patient progress and update medical records
• Assist with clinical trials and research studies
• Follow safety protocols to prevent or control infection
• Support patients and their families, providing counseling and referrals to social services when necessary

 

Qualifications

• Current state licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN) and Nurse Practitioner (NP)
• Certification in Pediatric Oncology Nursing (CPON) is preferred
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in pediatric oncology
• Experience in administering chemotherapy
• Strong knowledge of cancer diseases, treatments, and symptom management
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to explain complex medical information to patients and families
• Compassionate and patient-focused with strong counseling skills
• Ability to work in a team and coordinate with various healthcare professionals

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner
• Work Environment: Hospital or clinical setting with exposure to infectious diseases. The role may require weekend and holiday shifts.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Oncology or Chief Medical Officer.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $90,000 minimum to $140,000 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 a Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner Do?

Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioners are specialized medical professionals who focus on providing care to children and adolescents with various types of cancer.

They work in collaboration with pediatric oncologists and other healthcare professionals to develop, implement, and evaluate treatment plans for patients.

They often serve as the main point of contact between the healthcare team and the patient’s family, providing information and emotional support.

Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioners carry out a range of medical duties including performing physical examinations, interpreting lab results, managing symptoms, prescribing medication, and administering chemotherapy and other treatments.

They are also responsible for educating patients and their families about the disease, treatment procedures, and possible side effects, and they provide guidance on how to manage symptoms at home.

These nurses play a crucial role in monitoring the patient’s progress and response to treatment, and they make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan as needed.

Besides their clinical duties, Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioners may also be involved in research projects aimed at improving pediatric oncology care and outcomes.

They are committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive care to young patients during their difficult journey.

 

Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner Qualifications and Skills

A Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner should have a specific set of qualifications and skills which include:

• Advanced knowledge of pediatric oncology, including understanding of various types of childhood cancers, chemotherapy treatments, radiation therapy, bone marrow transplant, and related side effects.
• Ability to provide comprehensive healthcare services including assessment, diagnosis and treatment plans for pediatric patients with cancer.
• Strong interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with patients and their families, providing emotional support and education about the disease, treatment options and coping strategies.
• Detail-oriented with the ability to track and monitor patient progress, adjust treatment plans if necessary, and manage multiple patients simultaneously.
• Excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills to make quick decisions in high-stress situations and handle medical emergencies.
• Experience in administering medications, operating medical equipment, and performing procedures related to oncology care.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a team of healthcare professionals, including oncologists, radiologists, and other nurses.
• Strong ethical standards and a commitment to patient confidentiality and providing compassionate, patient-centered care.
• Understanding of palliative care and end-of-life issues in pediatric oncology.
• Physical stamina for long hours, including nights and weekends, and the ability to handle emotionally distressing situations.

 

Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner Experience Requirements

The path to becoming a Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner typically begins with obtaining a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN) and becoming a Registered Nurse (RN).

While it’s not always required, many professionals continue their education to obtain a Master’s Degree in Nursing (MSN), with a specialization in pediatric oncology.

During this time, students gain comprehensive theoretical and practical experience in oncology and pediatrics through coursework and clinical practice.

Upon graduation, they become advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) and often require additional certification, such as the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner certification (PNP) or the Certified Pediatric Hematology Oncology Nurse (CPHON) certification.

At least 1 to 2 years of experience in pediatric nursing or pediatric oncology is generally required for entry-level positions.

This experience can be gained through direct nursing roles, internships, or residencies in pediatric oncology departments.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have developed their technical skills and knowledge in pediatric oncology to include the management of symptoms related to cancer and its treatment, as well as providing emotional support and education to patients and families.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have some leadership experience in their background and may be ready for a managerial or lead position within a pediatric oncology department.

This could involve overseeing a team of nurses, participating in policy development, and contributing to research in the field.

Continuing education and professional development opportunities are also essential to stay updated with the latest advancements in pediatric oncology care.

 

Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner Education and Training Requirements

A Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner generally requires a Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN) from an accredited nursing program, with a specialization in pediatric oncology.

Prior to pursuing a master’s degree, candidates must have a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN) and must be licensed as Registered Nurses (RNs).

The RN license is obtained by passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).

The MSN program typically involves both classroom education and clinical experience in pediatric oncology settings.

The curriculum usually covers areas such as advanced pediatric nursing, pharmacology, physiology, and disease management.

After obtaining an MSN, candidates must become certified as Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (PNP) by passing a certification exam administered by the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB) or the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

For the pediatric oncology specialty, further certification can be obtained as a Certified Pediatric Hematology Oncology Nurse (CPHON) through the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC).

This certification requires additional clinical experience in pediatric oncology and passing the CPHON examination.

Continuing education and recertification are necessary to maintain the nursing licenses and certifications.

Many Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioners also pursue doctorate degrees to advance their knowledge and skills.

 

Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner Salary Expectations

A Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner earns an average salary of $110,076 (USD) per year.

The actual salary can differ greatly based on factors such as years of experience, additional specializations, geographical location, and the type of healthcare facility.

 

Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner need?

Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioners must be registered nurses and have a master’s degree in nursing.

They need to be certified as Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioners, which requires passing an examination.

In addition, they should have clinical experience in pediatric oncology.

 

What are the key responsibilities of a Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner?

A Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner is responsible for the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of children with cancer.

They work closely with physicians and other healthcare professionals to create and manage care plans.

They also provide emotional support to the patients and their families, educate them about the disease and treatment options, and coordinate care services.

 

What skills are important for a Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner?

A Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner should have excellent clinical and decision-making skills.

They should be able to work under pressure and handle stressful situations.

They also need strong communication skills to explain complex medical information to patients and their families.

Compassion, patience, and resilience are other important qualities for this role.

 

Is it challenging to hire a Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner?

Yes, hiring for this role can be challenging due to the specific skill set and qualifications required.

It requires a candidate with extensive experience and knowledge in pediatric oncology, as well as the ability to handle emotional situations.

The healthcare industry often faces nursing shortages, making it more difficult to find qualified candidates.

 

What is the typical career path for a Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner?

Typically, a Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner starts their career as a Registered Nurse (RN).

They then specialize in pediatrics and oncology through advanced education and clinical experience.

After obtaining their master’s degree in nursing and passing the certification exam, they can become Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioners.

With further experience and education, they can advance to managerial or educational roles within the healthcare system.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we delved into the intricate and impactful world of a Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner.

And guess what?

It’s not just about administering treatments.

It’s about delivering compassionate care and hope to our youngest cancer patients and their families, one day at a time.

With our go-to Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to take the next step in your career journey.

But why stop there?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating finely-tuned job listings or crafting your CV to perfection.

Remember:

Every small act of care contributes to a child’s bigger journey of recovery.

Let’s help them fight this battle. Together.

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