For the patient and the patient's family, certification provides assurance the nurse has obtained the knowledge and skill which will enable him or her to competently provide the patient with specialized care.
Certification can strengthen patients' confidence in their caregivers.
To the employer, Oncology Nursing Certification and Advanced Oncology Nursing Certification signify the nurse has met or exceeded rigorous criteria for knowledge and experience, and possesses a measured competency in a demanding practice area. Many employers believe certification provides nurses with an additional layer of knowledge which can enhance their proficiency as caregivers, and recognize nurses who attain the credential as committed to their specialty practice area. For nurses, preparing for the certification examination offers an opportunity to increase their knowledge of cancer and of cancer nursing practice. The OCN , AOCN , and CPON credentials may also enhance career development, by making it easier to progress along the career ladder, opening the door to new job opportunities, or in some cases, increasing earning potential. Nurses who attain Advanced Oncology Nursing Certification are distinguished by the AOCN designation.