Oncology Nursing Assistant at Sanford Health: Delivering Compassionate Care in Bismarck, North Dakota

Are you a compassionate and dedicated individual seeking a rewarding career in healthcare? Sanford Health in Bismarck, North Dakota, is looking for an Oncology Nursing Assistant to join our inpatient team. This role offers the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of patients undergoing cancer treatment, providing essential support and care during a challenging time.

Role Overview

As an Oncology Nursing Assistant, you will be an integral part of the patient care team, working under the supervision of Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) to provide direct patient care and support. Your responsibilities will encompass a wide range of tasks, from assisting with daily living activities to monitoring vital signs and ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for patients. This position requires a high level of empathy, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.

A Day in the Life of an Oncology Nursing Assistant

Each day as an Oncology Nursing Assistant will bring new challenges and opportunities to connect with patients. Here’s a glimpse into what a typical day might look like:

• Assisting with personal hygiene: Helping patients with bathing, grooming, dressing, and toileting.
• Supporting nutritional needs: Assisting patients with eating, meal preparation, and providing necessary hydration.
• Monitoring vital signs: Taking and recording patients' temperature, blood pressure, pulse, and respiration.
• Collecting specimens: Gathering non-invasive biological specimens for laboratory testing.
• Providing emotional support: Offering a listening ear and compassionate presence to patients and their families.
• Maintaining a clean environment: Ensuring patient rooms are clean, organized, and free of hazards.
• Documenting care: Accurately recording patient information and care provided in electronic health records.
• Assisting with mobility: Helping patients with ambulation and transfers.
• Reporting observations: Communicating any changes in patient condition or concerns to the nursing staff.
• Preparing treatment areas: Setting up rooms and equipment for medical procedures.

Why Bismarck, North Dakota?

Bismarck, the capital of North Dakota, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. With a population of around 75,000, Bismarck provides a welcoming community, affordable living, and a high quality of life. The city boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, excellent schools, and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and hunting.

Bismarck is also a growing healthcare hub, with Sanford Health serving as a major employer and provider of medical services in the region. Living and working in Bismarck provides a chance to make a significant impact on the health and well-being of the community.

Career Path for Oncology Nursing Assistants

The Oncology Nursing Assistant role can be a stepping stone to a fulfilling and rewarding career in healthcare. With experience and further education, you can advance to positions such as:

• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA): Obtaining CNA certification can enhance your skills and knowledge, opening doors to more advanced roles and responsibilities.
• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): Completing an LPN program can allow you to provide a wider range of nursing care under the supervision of an RN.
• Registered Nurse (RN): Earning an RN degree can lead to a career as a registered nurse, where you can provide comprehensive patient care and leadership within the healthcare team.
• Specialized Oncology Roles: With additional training and experience, you can specialize in specific areas of oncology nursing, such as chemotherapy administration or palliative care.

Salary and Benefits

The estimated salary range for an Oncology Nursing Assistant in Bismarck, North Dakota, is typically between $32,000 and $48,000 per year. This range may vary depending on experience, qualifications, and certifications. Sanford Health offers a comprehensive benefits package to its employees, including:

• Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Vacation, sick leave, and personal days.
• Holidays: Paid holidays throughout the year.
• Retirement Plan: 401(k) or other retirement savings plan with employer match.
• Life Insurance: Coverage to protect your loved ones.
• Disability Insurance: Short-term and long-term disability coverage.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Tax-advantaged accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Financial assistance for continuing education.
• Employee Discounts: Discounts on various products and services.
• Wellness Programs: Programs to promote employee health and well-being.

Sanford Health Culture

Sanford Health is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees feel valued and respected. We believe in teamwork, collaboration, and providing exceptional patient care. Our mission is to improve the human condition through health, science, and innovation.

As a member of the Sanford Family, you will have access to numerous development and advancement opportunities, allowing you to grow and excel in your career. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

How to Apply

If you are passionate about providing compassionate care to oncology patients and are looking for a rewarding career with a leading healthcare organization, we encourage you to apply for the Oncology Nursing Assistant position at Sanford Health in Bismarck, North Dakota. To apply, please visit our careers website at [Sanford Health Careers Website] and submit your application online.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the qualifications for this position?
   A high school diploma or GED is preferred, and CNA certification is also preferred. If not a CNA in North Dakota, you must be on the North Dakota Department of Health Nurse Aide Registry within four months of hire.
2. What are the main responsibilities of an Oncology Nursing Assistant?
   Your responsibilities include assisting with daily living activities, monitoring vital signs, collecting specimens, providing emotional support, and maintaining a clean environment.
3. What is the typical work schedule?
   This position involves 12-hour day shifts, with a scheduled weekly hours of 36.
4. Is this a union position?
   No, this is not a union position.
5. What is the salary range for this position?
   The salary range is $15.00 - $23.00 per hour.
6. What benefits does Sanford Health offer?
   Sanford Health offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, retirement plan, and tuition reimbursement.
7. What is the career path for an Oncology Nursing Assistant?
   You can advance to positions such as CNA, LPN, RN, or specialized oncology roles with further education and experience.
8. What is the work environment like at Sanford Health?
   Sanford Health offers a supportive and inclusive work environment with opportunities for growth and development.
9. How do I request an accommodation for the online application process?
   If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request an accommodation, please call 1-877-673-0854 or send an email to talent@sanfordhealth.org.
10. Where is the job located?
    The job is located in Bismarck, North Dakota.