Objective To identify the level and determinants of self-competence in death work among oncology nurses. Methods A total of 356 oncology nurses were surveyed using a general information questionnaire, the Self-Competence in Death Work Scale, Meaning in Life Questionnaire, and Maslach Burnout Inventory. Results They scored (57.83±8.75) points on self-competence in death work, with the emotional subscale score being the lowest.Multiple linear regression showed that meaning in life, personal achievement, funeral experience, whether an impact had induced by participation in care of the newly dead and nearly dead patients, and death education were the main influencing factors (P＜0.05 for all). Conclusion Self-competence in death work among oncology nurses is at a medium level and affected by several factors.Nursing managers should identify the needs of nurses and provide death education for them.