Revising the blueprint for the AOCN Examination using a role delineation study for advanced practice oncology nursing
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S C McMillan1, K B Heusinkveld, J A Spray
1University of South Florida College of Nursing, Tampa, USA.
Purpose/Objectives:
To conduct a role delineation study of advanced oncology nursing practice as a basis for the blueprint for the Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse (AOCN) Examination.
Design:
Descriptive and comparative.
Sample:
A group of 802 Oncology Nursing Society members comprised of 258 oncology nurse practitioners (NPs), 235 oncology clinical nurse specialists (CNSs), and 309 baccalaureate-prepared oncology nurses.
Methods:
A pilot survey was mailed to a small group to allow refinement of the survey instrument. The survey then was mailed to a total sample of 2,400.
Main Research Variables:
Frequency and importance to practice of 121 survey items as well as whether each item reflected an entry-level skill. Survey items were divided into five major domains: (a) Direct Caregiver, (b) Consultant, (c) Administrator/Coordinator, (d) Researcher and (e) Educator.
Findings:
Direct Caregiver domain was weighted most heavily (63%), followed by Educator (18%), Consultant (10%), Administrator/Coordinator (5%), and Researcher (4%). Most of the items were identified as entry-level skills, and fewer than 10% of the items differentiated between CNS and NP respondents.
Conclusion:
The blueprint for the AOCN Examination reflects entry-level advanced practice oncology nursing and is appropriate for both CNSs and NPs in oncology.
Implications For Nursing Practice:
Examinees, consumers, and employers can have confidence that the AOCN Examination will be based on a blueprint that was revised to reflect current oncology nursing practice and, therefore, is valid for its purpose.
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