At the beginning of this page, you will discover a button that grants complete access to the Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) practice test. Directly beneath it, there is another option to engage in a detailed practice test designed for an exhaustive review. These tests are vital for showcasing your abilities, identifying areas that need improvement, and fine-tuning your study approach.
To further boost your preparation, especially in topics that demand more focus, we have created specialized quizzes. These quizzes are meticulously designed to concentrate on specific elements of the OCN exam, providing a focused and effective study session.
Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) Domain Exams
The Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) exam is structured around six primary domains, each covering specific aspects of oncology nursing.
Here’s a breakdown of these domains.
Domain 1: Care Continuum
- Percentage of Exam: 19%
- Focus: Focuses on the full spectrum of cancer care, from prevention and early detection to end-of-life care, including survivorship and rehabilitation.
Domain 2: Humanities
- Percentage of Exam: 17%
- Focus: Covers the fundamental duties and considerations in oncology nursing, including standards of practice, ethical issues, and patient advocacy.
Domain 3: Treatment Modalities
- Percentage of Exam: 19%
- Focus: Involves understanding the various treatment options available for cancer care, such as surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and newer targeted therapies.
Domain 4: Oncology Nursing Practice
- Percentage of Exam: 17%
- Focus: Covers the fundamental duties and considerations in oncology nursing, including standards of practice, ethical issues, and patient advocacy.
Domain 5: Care Continuum
- Percentage of Exam: 19%
- Focus: Focuses on the full spectrum of cancer care, from prevention and early detection to end-of-life care, including survivorship and rehabilitation.
Domain 6: Psychosocial Dimensions of Care
- Percentage of Exam: 12%
- Focus: Addresses the psychological, social, and behavioral dimensions of cancer diagnosis and treatment, emphasizing support mechanisms, counseling, and communication with patients and their families.
| Exam Domain | % of Exam | Exam Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Care Continuum | 19% | Focuses on the full spectrum of cancer care, from prevention and early detection to end-of-life care, including survivorship and rehabilitation. |
| Oncology Nursing Practice | 17% | Covers the fundamental duties and considerations in oncology nursing, including standards of practice, ethical issues, and patient advocacy. |
| Treatment Modalities | 19% | Involves understanding the various treatment options available for cancer care, such as surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and newer targeted therapies. |
| Symptom Management and Palliative Care | 21% | Focuses on managing the physical and emotional symptoms associated with cancer and its treatment, including pain management and palliative care strategies. |
| Oncologic Emergencies | 12% | Deals with the recognition and management of emergencies that are unique to oncology patients, such as neutropenic fever, tumor lysis syndrome, and spinal cord compression. |
| Psychosocial Dimensions of Care | 12% | Addresses the psychological, social, and behavioral dimensions of cancer diagnosis and treatment, emphasizing support mechanisms, counseling, and communication with patients and their families. |
Key Points to Note:
- Total Questions: The OCN exam typically consists of 165 multiple-choice questions, of which 150 are scored and 15 are unscored pretest questions used for exam development purposes.
- Duration: The exam is 3 hours long.
- Eligibility: Candidates must meet specific educational and professional experience requirements, including having an RN license and a minimum of 1000 hours of adult oncology nursing practice.
Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) Exam Breakdown
The Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) exam is a specialized certification for registered nurses, emphasizing their expertise in adult oncology nursing. To qualify, candidates must have an active RN license in the U.S., Canada, or U.S. territories, at least 2,000 hours of adult oncology nursing practice, two years of experience as an RN, and at least 10 contact hours of oncology continuing education within the three years prior to application.
- Eligibility Requirements:
- Active RN license in the U.S., Canada, or U.S. territories.
- Minimum of 2,000 hours in adult oncology nursing practice within the past four years.
- At least two years of RN experience within the past four years.
- At least 10 contact hours of oncology continuing education within the past three years.
- Exam Details:
- Consists of 165 multiple-choice questions.
- Covers topics such as scientific basis for practice, treatment modalities, symptom management, psychosocial care, oncologic emergencies, and survivorship.
- Duration of the exam is three hours.
- Results are provided on the same day.
- Preparation Resources:
- Review courses and educational bundles provided by the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS).
- Study guides, practice tests, and other learning materials focused on exam content.
- Certification Benefits:
- Enhances professional credibility.
- Demonstrates mastery of specialized oncology nursing knowledge.
- Additional Information and Resources:
- Detailed information on the certification process, guidelines, and more can be found on the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC)
- For courses and educational materials.
How to Become an Oncology Certified Nurse
To become an Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN), you will need to meet specific eligibility criteria and pass an exam administered by the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC). Here are the general steps to achieve OCN certification:
- Education and Licensure: You must have an active, unencumbered RN license.
- Experience: You need at least two years of full-time experience as a registered nurse, including at least 2,000 hours of adult oncology nursing practice within the past four years. This experience can include clinical nursing practice, nursing administration, education, research, or consultation in oncology.
- Professional Development: You must have completed a minimum of 10 contact hours of continuing nursing education in oncology or an academic elective in oncology nursing within the three years prior to applying for the exam. At least five of these hours must be accredited nursing continuing education.
- Examination: Once you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply to take the OCN certification exam. The exam tests your knowledge and skills in areas such as oncology disease processes, treatments, symptom management, and psychosocial dimensions of care.
- Application: You can apply for the exam through the ONCC website. The application includes submitting your nursing license information, employment history, and proof of your professional development.
- Preparation: To prepare for the exam, consider using study materials like review courses, practice tests, and study guides offered by various professional organizations and education providers.
- Taking the Exam: After your application is approved, you will schedule and take the exam at an authorized testing center.
- Recertification: OCN certification is valid for four years. To maintain your certification, you must meet the ONCC’s recertification requirements, which include continuing education and professional development.
Our Experience Teaching Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) Candidates To Pass The Exam
At Career Employer, the development of our Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) practice tests has been a remarkable journey marked by significant achievements and challenges. Motivated by the wide array of topics covered by the exam, we aimed to cater to the unique needs of our learners.
Our method has been carefully crafted to ensure that each student is fully prepared to excel in the exam. Our commitment to providing a comprehensive educational experience is demonstrated through the extensive content and meticulous attention to detail in our practice materials, highlighting our dedication to the success of our students.
Teaching oncology nurses involves a combination of specialized knowledge, clinical expertise, and educational skills. Here’s an overview of what it takes to effectively teach oncology nurses:
1. Specialized Knowledge in Oncology
- Medical Knowledge: A deep understanding of cancer biology, pharmacology, and treatment modalities is essential. This includes knowledge about various types of cancers, their progression, treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery, and emerging therapies such as immunotherapy and targeted treatments.
- Nursing Skills: Proficiency in oncology-specific nursing skills, such as managing side effects, administering chemotherapy, pain control, and palliative care.
2. Clinical Experience
- Hands-on Experience: Clinical experience in oncology settings is crucial. This allows instructors to share real-world insights and practical examples with their students, enhancing theoretical teachings with practical applications.
- Continuing Education: Staying updated with the latest research, treatment innovations, and clinical practices through continuing education and professional development.
3. Educational Skills
- Curriculum Development: Ability to design and update curricula that meet the educational standards and requirements for oncology nursing certifications like the Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN).
- Teaching Methods: Utilizing a variety of teaching methods including lectures, seminars, hands-on clinical training, simulations, and case studies to cater to different learning styles and ensure comprehensive learning.
- Assessment and Evaluation: Developing and implementing effective assessment tools to measure learning outcomes and ensure that the nurses meet the required competency standards.
4. Soft Skills
- Communication: Effective communication skills to clearly convey complex information and provide supportive feedback.
- Empathy: An empathetic approach is crucial, as oncology nursing often involves dealing with emotionally challenging situations.
- Leadership and Mentorship: Providing leadership and mentorship to help nurses not only gain skills but also develop confidence in their clinical abilities.
5. Professional and Ethical Responsibilities
- Ethics: Upholding high ethical standards and teaching nurses about the ethical considerations in oncology care, including patient confidentiality, informed consent, and end-of-life care.
- Advocacy: Encouraging nurses to advocate for the best interests of their patients, which is particularly important in oncology, where treatment decisions can significantly impact patient quality of life.
6. Research Involvement
- Engagement in Research: Instructors may also be involved in oncology research, contributing to new knowledge and improvements in cancer treatment, which can directly feed into teaching and enrich the curriculum.
Combining these elements effectively prepares oncology nurses to handle the complexities of their role with competence and care, ultimately improving outcomes for cancer patients.
At Career Employer, our Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) certification practice tests are the result of the dedicated efforts of a team of experts, each bringing a wealth of experience and specialized knowledge to prepare candidates for the OCN exam. Their deep expertise has enabled over 1,000 oncology nurses to achieve their OCN certifications, with a focused approach tailored to the unique needs of oncology nursing nurses.
Our team consists of seasoned professionals, each with more than a decade of specialized experience in oncology nursing. This wealth of experience ensures that our practice materials are not only crafted by leading authorities in the field but are also highly effective in equipping candidates for success in their certification pursuits. Our unwavering commitment to excellence guarantees that users of our materials are thoroughly prepared and confident in achieving their certification goals.
Effective Study Strategies and Methods
Preparing for the Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) exam requires a strategic approach to studying. Here are several effective strategies and resources to help you succeed:
- Structured Review Courses: Consider enrolling in review courses like the Mometrix OCN Prep Course, which offers detailed lessons on topics ranging from the biology of cancer to symptom management and palliative care. The course includes video lessons, study tips, and specific strategies for answering questions and pacing yourself during the exam.
- Practice Questions: Utilizing resources like StatPearls can be incredibly beneficial. They provide a vast database of practice questions covering various topics that will be on the exam, helping you understand the format and types of questions to expect.
- Comprehensive Study Guides: Guides such as the Mometrix OCN Study Guide include not just content review but also test-taking strategies like intelligent guessing and ways to tackle test anxiety, which can make a significant difference in your performance.
- Online Forums and Community Insights: Engage with online communities, such as the forums on allnurses.com, where you can gain insights from other nurses who have taken the OCN exam. These forums often share personal study tips and motivational stories.
- Official Resources: The Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) offers various resources including books like the “Core Curriculum for Oncology Nursing,” which is aligned with the exam content and offers in-depth material on cancer treatment and nursing care. The ONS website also provides specific courses aimed at preparing for the OCN exam.
- Mock Exams and Practice Tests: Use practice tests to familiarize yourself with the exam format and to identify areas where you need further study. Free practice tests are available through resources provided by the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC), which can be a crucial part of your preparation.
- Review Programs: Participate in comprehensive review programs like the ones offered by MD Anderson, which cover a broad spectrum of oncology nursing topics. These programs are designed to enhance your knowledge and increase your chances of passing the exam.
By integrating these resources and strategies into your study plan, you can effectively prepare for the OCN exam and increase your chances of success. Remember, the key is to study smart, make use of the various preparatory materials available, and engage with the community for support and guidance.
Cost
| Description | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Fee (Non-member) | USD 420 | For non-ONS/APHON members |
| Exam Fee (Member) | USD 300 | Discounted for ONS/APHON members |
| International Testing Fee | USD 75 | Additional fee for international locations |
| Review Course (Virtual) | USD 100 – USD 130 | Cost varies by membership and organizer |
| OCN Review Bundle | Approx. USD 200 | Includes multiple courses, 180 days access |
| Practice Exams | USD 50 – USD 100 | May be included in some courses |
The total cost of obtaining the Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) certification encompasses several fees, including application costs, exam fees, preparation and review courses, and post-exam fees for maintaining the certification.
- Exam Fees:
- For non-members of the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) or Association of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses (APHON), the exam fee is USD 420.
- For members of ONS or APHON, the fee is reduced to USD 300.
- Additionally, there is a USD 75 fee for international testing locations.
- Preparation and Review Courses:
- Various review courses are available which can vary significantly in cost. For instance:
- A review course provided by the Boston ONS Chapter costs between USD 100 for members and USD 130 for non-members.
- Other review courses, such as the Virtual Interactive OCN Review, charge around USD 100 regardless of membership status.
- The OCN Certification Review Bundle from the Oncology Nursing Society, which includes multiple courses, provides 180 days of access for around USD 200.
- Various review courses are available which can vary significantly in cost. For instance:
- Study Materials and Practice Exams:
- The cost for additional study materials and practice exams can vary:
- Some organizations offer free practice tests while others may charge. For instance, practice exams are sometimes included in the cost of review courses, while standalone practice exams or additional study materials can range from USD 50 to USD 100 or more.
- The cost for additional study materials and practice exams can vary:
- Post-Exam Fees:
- Maintaining the certification typically involves completing continuing education units and potentially paying renewal fees every four years. Specific costs can vary but continuing education courses may cost anywhere from USD 50 to several hundred dollars depending on the provider and the number of contact hours provided.
- Other Possible Costs:
- Some candidates may also incur costs related to travel and accommodation if they choose to attend in-person review courses or take the exam at a location far from home.
In total, the cost for obtaining and maintaining the OCN certification can range from approximately USD 500 to over USD 1,000 when accounting for all potential fees and expenses involved.
Reliable Study Materials and Resources
To effectively prepare for the Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) certification exam, several online resources are available that offer comprehensive study materials, review courses, practice questions, and digital books. Here’s a list of recommended resources:
- ONCC Website (Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation):
- Offers a detailed overview of the OCN exam including a test content outline and preparation tips.
- Provides a range of review courses and practice tests.
- Explore specific resources like the OCN Certification Review Bundle which includes courses on cancer prevention, detection, treatment, symptom management, and professional practice issues in oncology nursing. Access is provided for 180 days post-purchase.
- Springer Publishing:
- Springer offers several valuable resources including the “Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) Review” book, which can be accessed digitally for up to 6 months.
- They also provide a practice question and answer book with a free trial, and a full range of preparation materials.
- Mometrix Test Preparation:
- Mometrix provides an OCN Study Guide, which includes tips on tackling exam questions effectively and managing test anxiety.
- They offer a money-back guarantee if you’re not satisfied with the guide, underscoring their confidence in the material’s quality.
- Oncology Nursing Society (ONS):
- ONS hosts a variety of educational materials including the “Core Curriculum for Oncology Nursing”, a comprehensive resource that reflects the most current research evidence and guidelines.
- They also offer courses and webinars that focus on specific areas of oncology nursing.
Tips for Exam Day
To excel on the Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) exam, consider the following tips and resources:
- Understand the Exam Structure: The OCN exam consists of 165 multiple-choice questions to be completed in three hours. Familiarize yourself with the primary content areas such as Symptom Management and Palliative Care, Care Continuum, Treatment Modalities, Oncology Nursing Practice, Oncologic Emergencies, and Psychosocial Dimensions of Care.
- Use Practice Questions: Leverage resources like StatPearls, which offers a vast array of practice questions and a pre-test to help you identify your strong and weak points. This will enable you to focus your studies more effectively and gauge your readiness for the actual exam.
- Review Materials: Consider using comprehensive study guides from publishers like Springer Publishing and Mometrix. These guides often include practice questions, exam tips, and flashcards that cover essential topics and offer test-taking strategies.
- Take Practice Tests: Regularly taking practice tests can help ease test anxiety by familiarizing you with the format and types of questions you will encounter. The ONCC offers both free and paid practice tests that reflect the exam’s difficulty and style.
- Learn Effective Test-Taking Strategies: Resources such as Mometrix’s study guides provide insights on intelligent guessing, time management, and avoiding common pitfalls on multiple-choice exams. Knowing how to approach the exam tactically can significantly impact your performance.
- Prepare Mentally and Physically: Ensure you get a good night’s sleep before the exam day and maintain a healthy diet. Mental readiness is just as crucial as your academic preparation. Some guides also include sections on managing test anxiety, which can be particularly beneficial if you tend to get nervous during exams.
Post-Exam: Next Steps
After completing the Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) exam, your next steps involve several strategic approaches to ensure both professional growth and success in future endeavors:
- Reflect on the Exam Experience: Use reflection to assess your performance and identify areas for improvement. This involves reviewing the exam content, understanding the areas where you excelled, and recognizing the topics that were challenging. A structured post-exam reflection can significantly enhance your learning and preparation for any future certifications.
- Assess Learning Needs: Look back at the test blueprint and your exam performance to pinpoint specific areas for further study or improvement. This will help you tailor your ongoing education and professional development activities more effectively.
- Engage in Continuous Learning: The field of oncology nursing is constantly evolving, so staying updated with the latest research, treatments, and care protocols is crucial. Engage with resources such as online courses, webinars, and publications from credible organizations like the Oncology Nursing Society. These platforms often offer specialized courses and materials that can deepen your knowledge and skills in oncology nursing.
- Network and Seek Mentorship: Participate in forums, join nursing societies, and attend workshops or conferences. Networking with other oncology professionals can provide insights, mentorship, and opportunities for collaboration. Connecting with peers through online forums specifically for oncology nurses can also be a valuable way to share experiences and seek advice.
- Plan for Recertification: Start planning for your recertification early by tracking your continuing education credits and staying informed about any changes in recertification requirements. This proactive approach will help you manage your professional credentials without last-minute rushes.
- Well-being and Self-care: It’s important to manage your own stress and well-being. Techniques such as mindfulness, regular physical activity, and balanced nutrition can enhance your personal and professional life, helping you perform better in high-stress nursing roles.
By following these strategies, you can maximize the benefits of passing the OCN exam and set a solid foundation for ongoing professional development and success in oncology nursing.
References
- Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation. “Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN).” ONCC, https://www.oncc.org/oncology-certified-nurse-ocn.
- Oncology Nursing Society. “Prepare for Certification.” ONS, https://www.ons.org/develop-your-career/prepare-certification.
- Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation. “Get Certified.” ONCC, https://www.oncc.org/get-certified.
- Mometrix. “OCN Practice Test.” Mometrix Test Preparation, https://www.mometrix.com/academy/ocn-practice-test/.
- Vivian. “OCN Certification.” Vivian, https://www.vivian.com/certifications/ocn/.
- Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation. “Certification Manual 2022.” ONCC, April 2023, https://www.oncc.org/sites/default/files/2023-04/certificationmanual2022.pdf.
- Test Prep Review. “Oncology Certified Nurse.” Test Prep Review, https://www.testprepreview.com/oncologycertifiednurse.htm.
- Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation. “Resource Center.” ONCC, https://www.oncc.org/resource-center.
- Mometrix University. “OCN.” Mometrix Test Preparation, https://www.mometrix.com/university/ocn.
- StatPearls. “Nurse Oncology (OCN).” StatPearls Publishing, https://www.statpearls.com/boardreview/Nurse-Oncology%20(OCN).
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- MD Anderson Cancer Center. “OCN Exam Review Course.” Cloud CME, https://mdanderson.cloud-cme.com/course/courseoverview?p=5&eid=24645.
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- Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation. “Review Courses.” ONCC, https://www.oncc.org/review-courses.
- Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation. “Test Dates, Application Deadlines, and Fees.” ONCC, https://www.oncc.org/test-dates-application-deadlines-and-fees.
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