Oncology Nutrition Certification
Proper nutrition before, during and after treatment for cancer can significantly affect the recovery of a patient. The healthier a patient's diet is pre-procedure, the easier it is going to be to heal. Patients undergoing procedures may have trouble keeping food down; a specialized nutritionist can provide dietary tips that will help a patient maintain proper nutrition at every stage of the process.
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Oncology Nutritionist Defined
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The oncology nutritionist helps prepare menus for patients with different types of cancer and answers nutritional questions. For example, an individual with neck cancer would receive guidance in preparing a wide variety of liquid foods and smoothies post surgery. An oncology nutritionist generally works in a hospital or other medical facility as part of the oncology team.
About Certification
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The Commission on Dietetic Registration and the Oncology Nutrition Dietetic Practice Group have worked together to create a board certification for experts in oncology nutrition--the Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition (CSO) designation. This certification provides employers and patients with peace of mind regarding the expertise of a dietitian. While not legally required, the majority of job postings prefer that a dietitian have certification.
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Becoming Certified
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Dietitians can become certified by taking the exam offered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). Online study materials provide students with a sense of what knowledge is necessary. Once a student is ready, she can register for the test at the CDR's website. The exam will be available electronically for a three-week period. Recertification is available every five years and does require a dietitian to pass another exam and pay a moderate application fee.
Education and Licensure
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Certification as a dietitian comes after formal education. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a career as a dietitian or nutritionist "usually requires at least a bachelor's degree in dietetics, foods and nutrition, food service systems management or a related area." As well, 33 states require licensure, 12 require statutory certification and one requires registration. Students should determine which state they want to work in before sitting for any exam. Individuals who do not meet state requirements may be able to work in the nutrition field under different job labels.
Study Materials
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The CDR website provides an outline of the exam, detailing the types of expertise required. Topics include: basic knowledge of how nutrition impacts cancer treatment, the impact of family health history on cancer, adequate nutrition levels, efficacy of over-the-counter and botanical supplements, age-specific nutrient needs, nutrition implications of treatments and side effects and much more.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit green for the health image by Cristina Bernhardsen from Fotolia.com
