Oncology Nursing Day in Canada Date in the current year: April 1, 2025

Oncology nurses are specialized registered nurses who care for patients with cancer and those at risk of developing cancer, meeting their needs throughout their disease, from screening to end-of-life care. They can work in a variety of healthcare settings (physician offices, outpatient clinics, hospitals, cancer centers, nursing homes, hospices, etc.) and have a variety of subspecialties such as surgical oncology, radiation oncology, pediatric oncology, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, hematology, etc.

During their treatment, oncology patients interact with nurses probably more than with their physician, turning to them for medical care and emotional support, so oncology nurses are always at the forefront of cancer diagnosis, treatment, care and research. They may have a variety of duties and responsibilities, depending on their specialty, work setting, and patient needs, such as:

• Performing various assessments and tests
• Monitoring a patient’s condition, managing symptoms and administering medications
• Helping patients manage the side effects of chemotherapy and other treatments
• Educating patients, their families and caregivers about the process of cancer treatment, rehabilitation and palliative care, if needed
• Assessing and addressing a patient’s emotional and mental needs
• Taking medical histories and maintaining clinical records
• Collaborating with physicians, other members of the nursing team, health care aides, therapists, social workers, technologists, administrative staff, and other professionals involved in the care of patients with cancer

To become an oncology nurse in Canada, one must first earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) and become a registered nurse (RN). Additional certification, such as the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) Oncology Nursing Certification, may enhance professional credentials. Advanced practice roles, such as nurse practitioners specializing in oncology, require further education at the master’s level.

The demand for oncology nurses is steady due to Canada’s aging population and rising cancer rates. Nurses in this field must stay abreast of evolving cancer treatments and technologies while providing compassionate, patient-centered care.

Oncology Nursing Day (OND) in Canada was established by CANO/ACIO (Canadian Association of Nurses in Oncology/Association canadienne des infirmières en oncologie), a national organization dedicated to advancing oncology nursing through education, research, practice, collaboration, advocacy, and leadership. Its primary purpose is to celebrate the expertise, dedication, and invaluable contribution of oncology nurses across Canada to the national health care system.

To celebrate Oncology Nursing Day, CANO/ACIO and other stakeholders organize various professional events such as seminars and webinars, conferences, awards ceremonies, and more.