Oncology Registered Nurse

At Mahaska Health the Oncology Registered Nurse provides specialized, comprehensive care to patients receiving cancer treatment in a rural hospital setting. This role supports patients and families throughout the entire cancer care continuum—administering therapies, managing treatment-related symptoms, coordinating multidisciplinary services, and offering compassionate education and emotional support from initial diagnosis through survivorship or palliative care.

Essential Job Functions include but are not limited to: All duties will be performed according to the scope of practice and clinic policy. Monitor physical, emotional, and psychosocial status through interviews, exams, and observations. Deliver chemotherapy, radiation, and other cancer therapies safely and accurately.

Help patients manage side effects like nausea, fatigue, and pain. Explain treatment plans, answer questions, and advocate for patient needs. Collaborate with oncologists, pharmacists, social workers, and other healthcare professionals. Maintain accurate records of patient care, treatment responses, and progress. Provide emotional support to patients and families, often during difficult times.

Assesses and documents physical, psychological, and social dimensions of patients at clinic. Prepares for and assists with office procedures. Documents and reports on adverse effects of medications. Properly documents immunizations and medications. Makes referrals to other providers and facilities as directed by the provider.

Triages and returns phone calls effectively and in a timely manner. Reports test results for patients with instructions from providers in a timely manner. Be flexible and able to multi-task; can work within an ambiguous, fast-moving environment, while also driving toward clarity and solutions; demonstrated resourcefulness in setting priorities and guiding investment in people and systems.

Adhere to all confidentiality policies, including compliance with HIPAA and Mahaska Health training requirements. Maintain a cooperative working relationship with employees, visitors, medical staff, and patients, keeping in mind the person’s unique needs within their age category (refer to Mahaska Health’s Age Specific Standards of Care Policy).

Maintains regular and reliable attendance. Perform other duties as assigned to support patient care, departmental operations, and organizational goals.

Job Responsibilities

A graduate from an accredited school of nursing and currently licensed as a Registered Nurse in the state of Iowa (or) a graduate from an accredited school of nursing and currently licensed as a Registered Nurse able to work in the state of Iowa. Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) credential is required within 3 years of hire.

Prior experience in oncology or acute care settings is preferred. Ability to handle emotionally challenging situations. Required to be current in BLS (Basic Life Support) by the standards of the American Heart Association. Will be required to show proof of having completed Mandatory Reporter course at the time of hire or attend within 6 months of the start date.

Ability to perform the essential work functions of this job, with or without reasonable accommodation. Personal qualities of integrity, credibility, and commitment to the mission of Mahaska Health. The work environment includes, but is not limited to: Routine work inside an active hospital environment, requiring frequent walking, standing, and light physical labor while supporting patients undergoing chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and other oncology treatments.

Occasional exposure to moderate noise levels, cleaning agents, mechanical spaces, or patient care areas, consistent with a rural acute‑care setting. Work across mixed‑acuity units, as rural hospitals often combine oncology care with medical‑surgical or infusion services, requiring adaptability and strong clinical judgment.

Emotional resilience in a community‑based environment, where nurses may care for patients and families they know personally, providing long‑term support throughout the cancer care continuum.