ONS certification has two levels --OCN for general entry level certification, and two advanced practice certifications-- the AOCNS for clinical
nurse specialists, and the AOCNP for nurse practitioners.
Recertification for the general level is every four years, and may be by retest, or CE ( it is 100 hours in 4 years, with the majority of them being oncology
focused (65). Advanced certification required 100 hours with 80 being oncology focused.. Evidence of CE is submtited by completing ONC-PRO log/application in the year of recertification. It is very clear in the recert booklet which are acceptable contact hours an how to get them. We can use, nursing CE, Medical CE, college or academic course (specific nursing courses), as well as writting for a journal, textbook, teaching courses, etc.
Obtaining CE is becoming easier and easier as there are opportunities that are produced by ONS that are Free on the ONS website, as well as webcasts from the congresses, and distance learning courses on WEB CT, all approved and provided by ONS for easy access.
It really shouldn't have to be that difficult to get the recert hours. I need to recert this year, and will have spent almost $1500 for travel, hotel, registration fee, as well as the $150 dollars it cost get 10 recert hours by ce out ot the INS journal. That doesn't include lost wages for time away from work.
Sarah Jones RN, BSN, OCN, CRNI
Oncology Nurse Clinician/Infusion Services Coordinator
Upper Valley Medical Center
T: (937) 440-4827
