Job Description of a Pediatric Oncology Clinical Specialist
While the chances of a child getting cancer are small -- 1 in 330 before age 19, according to the Texas Oncology website -- the threat of this situation is still real. Though the causes of cancers including bone cancer, germ cell tumors, leukemia, and anemia are often unknown, the manner in which these diseases affect children mentally as well as physically varies from the impact they have on adults. In situations when a child becomes severely ill, a specialist is called in to help. Pediatric oncology clinical specialists treat children facing a battle against blood disorders and cancers in cancer treatment centers, hospitals, physician offices and clinics.
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Pediatric Oncology Clinical Nurse Specialist
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A clinical nurse specialist, also known as a CNS or registered nurse, specializes in a specific subdivision of patient care which may include oncology, leukemia and other illnesses. Often acting as a team leader, the clinical nurse specialist works closely with physicians, patients and family members to create an environment that is compassionate and educational, as well as one that demonstrates and promotes a pleasant patient care experience.
Clinical Nurse Educational Path
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Nurses often begin their careers working in physician offices, or as staff members at community hospitals. Those wishing to seek higher levels in the nursing field must obtain additional education. Clinical nurse specialists need to obtain a graduate degree from a clinical nurse specialist program. An associate degree covers a range of nursing disciplines including adult care, geriatric nursing and pediatrics. A bachelor of science in nursing degree, which generally takes four years to complete, focuses on areas including research and nursing theory. Obtaining on-the-job training, and specializing in a particular area of study, setting or body region allows nurses to gain additional knowledge and reach expert status, which is required in clinical nursing. A master of science in nursing (MSN) degree is mandatory to become a clinical nurse specialist.
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Clinical Nurse Job Responsibilities
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Clinical nurse specialists can work in a large patient population or be assigned to a smaller unit where care is needed. They are the experts within the clinical setting who diagnose, treat patients, provide interventions when necessary, and begin the execution of treatments based on reviews of patient assessments. Clinical care nurses interact directly with patients, family members of patients, physicians, other nursing staff members, and organizations to support patient care. They also continuously educate staff members to promote continual quality assurance.
Clinical Nurse Specialist Employment Outlook
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This is a blossoming career field. Job opportunities are expected to increase. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, between the years 2008 and 2018 the nursing field will see job growth of 22 percent. As of October 2010 the salary range for this career averaged $67,000 to $88,000 annually.
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