2013 ONS Annual Report Volume 1 | Page 16

xx Oncology Nursing Society Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation The Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC) introduced a new assessment-based method for nurses renewing their oncology certification in 2016 and beyond. In 2013, ONCC launched the Individual Learning Needs Assessment (ILNA) method of renewal. More than 2,700 nurses who recertified in 2012 and 2013 took assessments to determine the content areas in which they need to earn professional development points for their next renewal. The new method ensures that oncology certified nurses are maintaining the breadth of knowledge across all content areas as indicated by their credential. Points are only required in the areas where a knowledge gap is identified according to the assessment results, reducing the total number of points required for most nurses to recertify. REGISTRATION OPENS FOR BLOOD AND MARROW TRANSPLANTATION CERTIFICATION Blood and Marrow Transplantation Certified Nurse (BMTCN™) registration opened in the fall of 2013. Expectations were exceeded, with more than 350 applications received for the inaugural testing window. The examination covers allogeneic and autologous BMT for pediatric and adult populations. Testing began in February 2014. 1,700 ONCC also introduced LearningBuilder, an online certification management tool. LearningBuilder allows nurses to access their personalized learning plan, consisting More than 1,700 nurses accessed their learning plans and began using LearningBuilder in 2013. of the content areas and number of points required for their certification renewal. Certified nurses can use this tool to track their professional development and submit the points for renewal. More than 1,700 nurses accessed their learning plans and began using LearningBuilder in 2013. Looking forward, ONCC will introduce additional functionality of LearningBuilder. The tool has the ability to link to specific continuing education opportunities in a nurse’s required content areas and alert them when a new program becomes available.