AOCNP - Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner

The Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP) certification is a professional credential for nurse practitioners who specialize in oncology care. Administered by the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC), this certification endorses a nurse practitioner's expertise in providing advanced care to cancer patients, including assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of cancer and its treatments. The AOCNP certification is designed for NPs who are committed to enhancing their knowledge and skills in oncology nursing, thereby improving patient outcomes.

Completion Time: 3 hours.

Cost: $300 for ONS/APHON members, $420 for non-members.

Exam Format

The AOCNP exam includes 165 multiple-choice questions covering a broad range of topics in oncology nursing, such as cancer prevention, detection, treatment modalities, symptom management, and psychosocial aspects of cancer care.

The exam assesses knowledge and skills essential for advanced practice in oncology nursing.

A passing score is 55 based on a 75-point scale determined by the ONCC.

Certification Requirements

• An active, current nurse practitioner license.

• A Master’s, Postgraduate, or Doctoral degree in nursing.

• Clinical practice experience in oncology nursing.

AOCNP certification requires renewal every 4 years.

Renewal involves completing continuing education credits in oncology and submitting a recertification application with a fee.

Specific CE requirements typically include courses or training related to oncology, advanced nursing practice, and patient care.

Detailed records of these activities must be maintained and submitted during the renewal process.

For authoritative and detailed information on Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner certification, including application guidelines, exam preparation materials, and renewal processes, it is recommended to consult the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC) website. The ONCC provides resources and support for nurses in oncology specialties.

Career Opportunities

AOCNPs work in various settings, including hospitals, cancer centers, outpatient clinics, and private practices.

They play a crucial role in cancer care, research, and education.

The ONCC also offers the following certifications:

• Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN)

• Certified Breast Care Nurse (CBCN)

• Certified Pediatric Hematology Oncology Nurse (CPHON)

• Blood and Marrow Transplant Certified Nurse (BMTCN)