Oncology Nurse Practitioner Job Description
Introduction to Job Description
This job description for the Oncology Nurse Practitioners was developed by the Nurse
Practitioner Special Interest Group (SIG) of the Oncology Nursing Society in 1996. It is
a compilation of many ONP job descriptions and it is intended to be used only as a
template for developing a personal job description, not in its entirety.
I.
Administrative
A. Establishes goals and objectives for his/her area in congruence with the
assigned department’s goals and objectives on an annual basis. Target dates
for implementation and evaluation of goals are established.
B. Participates in review and revision of job descriptions, policies, and
procedures.
C. Ensures that development and intradepartmental policies, procedures, and
standards of care are maintained and assists in interpreting these for patients
and visitors.
D. D. Promotes philosophy of employer and acts as a role model and resource
person for staff.
E. Ensures and maintains patient/family confidentiality at all times.
II.
Clinical
A. Assesses the physical and psychosocial status of clients by means of
interview, health history, physical examination, and diagnostic studies.
B. Recognizes deviations from normal in the physical assessment. Works in
collaboration with a physician in formulating treatment plans for health
problems and follow-up.
C. Writes prescriptions for medication, blood products based upon laboratory
results, routine diagnostic and follow-up studies, therapeutic measures, and
post-discharge care in accordance with written practice protocols.
D. Determines eligibility of patients for entry into clinical trials based on
findings.
E. Requests written consultation from physicians and other healthcare
professionals to ensure appropriate and quality patient care.
F. Interprets and evaluates findings of studies/tests.
G. Relays appropriate information regarding patient care to the collaborating
physician.
H. Administers therapeutic measures and obtains specimens as prescribed.
I. Evaluates the quality of care provided and recommends changes for
improvement.
J. Initiates appropriate actions to facilitate the implementation of therapeutic
plans that are consistent with the continuing healthcare needs of the client.
K. Dictates follow-up letters to referring physicians with summaries of treatment,
response, and plan.
L. Maintains provision of preventive health services (e.g. screening, risks
assessment, immunizations, PAP smears, self-breast exam).
M. Dictates or writes patient history, admissions, care plans, progress, and
discharge notes.
N. Interacts with program assistants and data managers for optimal patient care.
O. Assists in the management of family dynamics and coping mechanisms during
acute and chronic phases of patient care.
P. Conducts or participates in daily multidisciplinary rounds and ensures
appropriate and quality care for assigned patient.
Q. Provides on-call coverage.
R. Performs patient triage and determines the urgency of physician’s evaluation.
S. Provides symptom management for side effects related to oncologic treatment.
III.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
I.
J.
Skills Required
Effective verbal and written communication skills to communicate with
diverse populations, including physicians, employees, patients, and families.
Leadership skills to direct others toward the successful treatment of patients.
Analytical skills to evaluate patient status and healthcare
procedures/techniques and to monitor quality of care.
Fiscal skills to monitor and control costs and revenue.
Willingness to learn and remain flexible in the changing healthcare
environment.
Ability to assist staff in times of crisis or emergency.
Ability to conceptualize, develop, and implement new ideas or systems.
Ability to exercise sound judgment and discretion while performing duties.
Ability to meet with the public outside the institution and efficiently market
and promote cancer treatment.
Ability to determine work priorities, assign work, and insure proper
completion of work assignments.
IV.
Communication
A. Establishes relationships with professional and/or other health-related groups
within the community.
B. Shares clinical expertise with professional and supportive personnel.
C. Documents and reports care in an accurate, timely manner using appropriate
forms and records.
D. Works effectively with others. Collaborates with other health disciplines to
ensure continuity and quality of care.
E. Uses interpersonal skills to work productively with all levels of hospital
personnel.
V.
Self-Development and Professional Responsibility
A. Makes a significant and sustained contribution to the nursing profession
through publishing, committee involvement, educational media development
or scientific inquiry, or use of creative approaches to enhance quality of care.
B. Demonstrates professionalism and accountability.
C. Maintains clinical and administrative expertise through formal and informal
programs.
D. Demonstrates expertise in patient care.
E. Maintains current knowledge of healthcare techniques and practices by
participating in workshops, seminars, and professional organizations.
VI.
Research
Applies current concepts and findings from research and/or studies to practice.
Initiates change in clinical practice based on current concepts and findings.
Participates in multidisciplinary research activities.
Functions as a principal investigator or co-investigator for nursing research
protocols.
E. Participates in journal club.
A.
B.
C.
D.
VII. Continuous Quality Improvement
A. Identifies, analyzes, and resolves patient care problems to foster significant
improvement in patient care.
B. Participates in intradisciplinary continuous quality improvement activities on
an ongoing basis.
C. Demonstrates a commitment to improving the quality of care provided to
patients.
VIII.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
IX.
Qualifications
License and current registration to practice in state.
Graduate from a registered NP program.
Master’s degree in nursing.
One full-time year of post-licensure clinical nursing experience.
Privileges or eligibility to apply.
Education
A. Patient
1. Educates patients and families about the disease process and treatment.
2. Provides information to patients and families related to symptom
management and psychosocial response to the diagnosis of cancer and
related treatment.
B. Staff/Student
1. Identifies the learning needs of nursing/medical staff and students and
implements appropriate educational programs.
2. Provides formal and informal education to staff in oncology care.
3. Uses local, regional, and national forums to educate other professionals
about advanced practice roles and issues-related care.
4. Precepts graduate nursing students.
5. Participates in the development of educational materials for patients and
healthcare providers.
C. Community
1. Provides consultation to lay groups and other healthcare professionals in
the community.
X.
Reimbursement
A. Varies per institution and state.
XI.
Case Management
A. Leads family conferences.
B. Coordinates care for complex patients through multidisciplinary team.
C. Coordinates, attends, and positively endorses cancer rehabilitation meetings.
XII. Policy Adherence
A. Adheres to standard policies for infection control, fire, safety departments.
B. Attends mandatory in-services related to hospital and departmental policies
and conforms to state and federal regulations.
C. Complies with the hospital attendance guidelines regarding timeliness of
notification, and promptness in reporting for duty.
D. Practices within the legal boundaries of nurse practitioner. Understands
responsibilities, communication, and authority lines.
E. Composes standard policies/procedures for specialty areas and uses
standardized procedure guides to practice.
The Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) does not assume responsibility for the opinions
expressed and information provided by authors or by Special Interest Groups (SIGs).
(Rev. 1/04)