CON(C) (CNA) - Certified in Oncology Nursing (C)anada

The Certified in Oncology Nursing (Canada) certification, or CON(C), is designed for Canadian registered nurses specializing in the field of oncology. This certification demonstrates advanced knowledge and expertise in caring for patients with cancer, including understanding of oncology treatments, management of side effects, and provision of supportive care.

Completion Time: 3 hours

Eligibility and Certification Requirements

• Current, active RN license in Canada.

• A minimum of two years of nursing experience, with a substantial portion in oncology nursing.

• Completion of continuing education in oncology nursing.

• Passing the oncology nursing certification examination offered by a certifying body such as the CNA.

Cost: 

Exam application fee: $570 for CNA members, $756 for non-members. Plus remote-proctored exam writing appointment fee to ProctorU: $85, or in-person exam writing appointment fee $110.

Exam Format

The CON(C) examination typically includes 165 multiple-choice questions covering various aspects of oncology nursing, such as cancer pathophysiology, treatment modalities, symptom management, psychosocial support, and ethical issues.

Gain relevant experience in oncology nursing.

Apply for the Certified in Oncology Nursing (Canada) examination through a certifying organization such as the CNA.

Passing criteria for the certification examination will depend on the candidate's performance on a scaled grading model.

Certification in Oncology Nursing requires renewal every 5 years.

Renewal involves completing continuing education credits in oncology nursing and related topics, and paying a recertification fee.

Continuing education for Oncology Nurses may include updates in cancer treatments, new research findings, palliative care approaches, and advances in patient care technologies.

For specific information regarding Certified in Oncology Nursing (Canada), including eligibility criteria, examination details, approved educational programs, and renewal processes, it is recommended to consult directly with the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) or other relevant nursing certifying bodies in Canada. These organizations provide comprehensive resources and standards for nurses specializing in oncology care.

Career Opportunities

Certified Oncology Nurses work in hospitals, cancer treatment centers, outpatient clinics, and hospice care.

They provide care to patients undergoing cancer treatments, support patients and families through the cancer journey, and participate in patient education and advocacy.

The CNA also offers the following certifications:

• Certified Nurse in Critical Care (C)anada (CNCC(C))

• Certified in Nephrology (C)anada (CNeph(C))

• Certified in Cardiovascular Nursing (C)anada (CCN(C))

• Certified in Medical-Surgical Nursing (C)anada (CMSN(C))

• Certified in Pediatric Nursing (C)anada (CpedN(C))

• Certified in Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing (C)anada (CPMHN(C))

• Emergency Nurse Certified (C)anada (ENC(C))

Other related certifications include:

• ONCC Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN)

• ONCC Certified Pediatric Oncology Nurse (CPON)

• ONCC Certified Pediatric Hematology Oncology Nurse (CPHON)

• ONCC Certified Breast Care Nurse (CBCN)

• ONCC Blood and Marrow Transplant Certified Nurse (BMTCN)