CBCN - Certified Breast Care Nurse

The Certified Breast Care Nurse (CBCN) certification is a specialized credential for registered nurses who focus on the care of patients with breast health concerns. Administered by the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC), the CBCN certification recognizes a nurse's expertise in providing comprehensive care to individuals with breast cancer and other breast health issues. This certification is designed for nurses who are committed to advancing their knowledge and skills in breast care nursing, emphasizing patient education, support, and coordination of care.

A current, active RN license and a minimum of 12 months of experience in breast care nursing within the past 3 years are typical prerequisites.

Completion Time: 3 hours

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

Double Take option: additional $100, must be paid when registering for initial exam. Allows a candidate to retest once if they don't pass, without paying the full test fee again.

Exam Format

The CBCN exam includes 165 multiple-choice questions (125 scored, 40 unscored) covering a wide range of topics related to breast care nursing, including breast cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, survivorship, and end-of-life care.

Topics also include patient assessment, symptom management, psychosocial support, and professional performance.

A passing score is determined by the percentage of correct answers in each section.

Eligibility criteria include an RN license, specified hours of practice in breast care nursing, and continuing nursing education in oncology. The application process involves submitting documentation of professional experience and educational qualifications.

If unsuccessful on the exam, candidates can reapply following ONCC’s reexamination policies.

CBCN certification must be renewed every 4 years. Renewal involves completing continuing education in oncology nursing and paying a recertification fee.

There are three options for renewal:

Option 1: Practice hours + Professional Development (Points)

• Applying before September 15, 2025 - $240 for ONS/APHON members and $360 for non-members

• Applying by October 15, 2025 (Final Deadline) - $340 for ONS/APHON members and $460 for non-members

Option 2: Practice hours + Successful Testing

• Apply by September 15, 2025 - $300 for ONS/APHON members and $420 for non-members

Option 3: Points + Successful Testing

• Applying before September 15, 2025 - $400 for ONS/APHON members and $520 for non-members

• Applying by October 15, 2025 (Final Deadline) - $500 for ONS/APHON members and $620 for non-members

Continuing education requirements include specific hours of nursing education related to oncology and breast care.

Detailed records of these activities must be maintained and submitted for the recertification process.

For the most current and detailed information regarding Certified Breast Care Nurse certification, including application guidelines, exam schedules, study materials, and renewal processes, it is advised to refer directly to the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC) website.

ONCC provides a range of study materials, including a detailed test content outline, bibliography, and sample questions. Additional resources may include review courses, textbooks, and continuing education programs in oncology nursing.

After obtaining CBCN certification, nurses may pursue further certifications in oncology nursing or other specialized areas of nursing.

The ONCC also offers the following:

• Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN)

• Certified Pediatric Oncology Nurse (CPON)

• Certified Pediatric Hematology Oncology Nurse (CPHON)

• Blood and Marrow Transplant Certified Nurse (BMTCN)