what certifications can a rn get

1. Neonatal Resuscitation (NRP) Nursing Certification.
2. Management of Assaultive Behavior (MAB) Nursing Certification.
3. Acute/Critical Care Nursing (CCRN)
4. AIDS Certified Registered Nurse (ACRN)
5. Certified ICU RN (AACN)
6. Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC) Certification.
7. Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse (AOCN) Certification.

Full Answer

What are the best nursing certifications to obtain?

• Advanced Burn Life Support
• Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support
• Basic Life Support

What is the best certification for nurses?

• American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB)
• American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN)
• American Board for Occupational Health Nurses (ABOHN)
• American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
• American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL)
• Certification Board for Diabetes Care and Education (CBDCE)

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What certifications can a nurse get?

There are several types of advanced certification for nurses, which is detailed below. Nurses can obtain specialty certification in their area of expertise. For example, a pediatric nurse can obtain board certification. A psychiatric nurse may also become board certified.

What are all the nursing certifications?

The National Certification Corporation (NCC) provides certification in the following specialties

• Core certification
• Nurse Practitioner certification
• Subspecialties. NCC offers both initial certification for bedside nurses as well as NPs in the fields of neonatology and women's care.

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What is the highest certification for a nurse?

The highest level of nursing education is the doctoral level. Positions that require doctoral nursing degrees include certain types of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), as well as leadership positions such as chief nursing officer or director of nursing.

What is the easiest nursing certification to get?

Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification is generally seen as the baseline requirement for nurses. This fairly easy certification is valid for two years, and you will need to renew it after that.

What certifications should nursing students get?

19 Best Student Nurse CertificationsCertified Nurse Assistant (CNA) ... Certified Nurse Technician (CNT) ... Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC) ... Certified in Executive Nursing Practice (CENP) ... Certified Dialysis - Licensed Vocational Nurse (CD-LVN) ... Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (NHA) ... Medical-Surgical Nursing (RN-BC)More items...•

Are certifications worth it in nursing?

There are several reasons why nursing certification matters. At the most basic level, certification leads to better job prospects by enhancing professional credibility, validating specialized knowledge, and demonstrating a higher level of clinical competence, all of which can lead to higher salaries for nurses.

What is the next level after RN?

Once you reach the RN level of nursing, more specialized positions open up, such as cardiac care nurse, case management nurse, and flight nurse. To become an RN, you must earn either an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

What Comes After a registered nurse?

What are the different levels of nursing?Certified nursing assistant (CNA) ... Licensed practical nurse (LPN) ... Registered nurse (RN) ... Advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) ... Doctor of nursing practice (DNP) or Doctor of philosophy, nursing.

What certifications look good on a nursing resume?

Top certifications for recent nursing graduatesCertified Wound Treatment Associate (WTA-C) ... Basic Life Support (BLS) ... Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) ... Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) ... Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) ... Certified Life Safety Specialist for Health Care Facilities (CLSS-HC)More items...•

What is the lowest level of nursing?

As the name suggests, CNAs assist nurses with patient admittance and vitals. It is the lowest-level credential related to the nursing field and the quickest point of entry.

What percentage of nurses are certified?

According to a 2018 Nurse.com report, 40% of American nurses are certified.

Why do nurses not get certified?

When asked why they don't become certified, nurses cite the cost, time, lack of organizational incentives, no perceived value and a fear of failure.

Why should RNS get certified?

By becoming certified, nurses validate their expert knowledge and skills and therefore position themselves for appropriate recognition, advancement and a critical sense of confidence and achievement. RN licensure measures entry-level competence.

Is it worth getting Ccrn?

A: CCRN certification helps you maintain an up-to-date knowledge base of acute and critical care nursing. In addition to providing you with a sense of professional pride and achievement, CCRN certification reinforces the special knowledge and experiences required for acute and critical care nursing.

What is the difference between certified and registered nurse?

Difference Between RN and CNA A certified nursing assistant (CNA) provides basic patient care and works under registered nurses. A registered nurse (RN) provides a higher level of patient care and coordination and works under a doctor.

What does RNC stand for in nursing?

RNC = Registered Nurse Certified.

Can I do a certificate in nursing?

So, can you take a certificate in nursing if you did not meet the minimum requirements to pursue a Diploma or a Degree in Nursing? The answer is Yes!

How long does it take to become a nurse?

Earning a nursing associate degree is the fastest, and often the most affordable, path to becoming an RN. ADN programs generally take about two years to complete and prepare you to take the NCLEX licensure exam to become a registered nurse. A BSN degree is typically a four-year program.

What does RN certified mean?

An RN certification is an optional and voluntary speciality nursing certification that a nurse can achieve on their own that represents a standard...

Are nursing certifications worth it?

Nursing certifications are a way to advance your career, show your dedication, and gain advanced education in your field.

What's the lowest degree in nursing?

A CNA is a Certified Nurses Assistant and they are someone who assists a nurse. An LPN could be considered the “lowest” rank of a nurse, although t...

Do Certifications increase salary?

Nursing certifications generally improve the demand for an RN, increasing their earning potential.According to nursejournal.org, board-certified Re...

How to become a Certified Nurse?

To become a Certified Nurse, you need to:- Hold a valid RN, LPN, or APRN license- Meet your preferred nursing certification eligibility requirement...

What are the different levels of Nursing Certifications?

The different types of nursing certifications depend on the nursing specialty, education, and career level.They are:- LPN certification- RN certifi...

What is a Certified Nurse?

A Certified Nurse is a Specialized Nursing Practitioner providing specialized and high-quality nursing services to patients.According to ABNS, nurs...

How to get RN-BC certification?

To get board certified RN certification, you need to:- Hold a valid RN license- Meet the eligibility requirements of the national nursing certifica...

What do I put for certifications on my resume?

According to the American Nursing Association (ANA), list your certification in this order.Highest degree, license, state designation or requiremen...

Why are Nurses not knowledgeable about certifications?

According to Pubmed, most Nurses cite the following reasons as the most significant barrier to not pursuing professional nursing certification:- St...

What is RN-BC certification?

RN-BC certification refers to a board-certified registered nurse who has satisfied a nursing certification body's eligibility, training, and skill...

Why should Nurses be certified?

Professional nursing certification is crucial because it allows the following:- Offer high-quality nursing services- Command higher salaries- Gain...

What is CCRN certification?

Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) certification refers to a specialized nursing certification for RNs who provide critical care nursing service...

What Are Nursing Certifications?

Certification can be as broad as adult/gerontology, or as specialized as pediatric oncology. It's important to note that a nursing certification is different from a post-master's certificate program, where a master's-prepared RN receives the necessary education to enter an entirely new advanced specialty without having to complete an additional full-length nursing program.

What certifications are required for APRN?

Earning certification in a specific care area is usually required for licensure as an APRN. These are typically in the form of board certifications, and usually have the abbreviation "BC" in the title (for example, a board-certified family nurse practitioner is an FNP-BC). Some specialties don't require certifications, although having one demonstrates that the nurse or APRN has received further education in the care of specific patients, and is considered an "expert" in the field. Also, while not always required for licensure, some employers require specific certification depending on their role. Many nurses find that having certification in their specialty of choice only enhances employment opportunities, whether it's a hard requirement or not.

What is required to become a nurse?

An RN degree (sometimes an advanced degree, like an MSN ), an unencumbered RN license, a minimum number of direct-care hours in the specialty, and a certification test are usually all required for a nurse to become certified in an area of care. Nurses should also keep in mind that certification renewals will be required to keep them up-to-date; a certification is usually good for a few years until re-certification is necessary, and may require some continuing education credits and/or clinical practice hours.

What does a certification in nursing mean?

Certifications, whether required for licensure and employment or not, add value to an RN's role and resume. They signify the commitment to lifelong learning and the delivery of quality, specialized nursing care.

How long is a nurse's certification good for?

Nurses should also keep in mind that certification renewals will be required to keep them up-to-date; a certification is usually good for a few years until re-certification is necessary, and may require some continuing education credits and/or clinical practice hours.

Do nurses need certification?

Also, while not always required for licensure, some employers require specific certification depending on their role. Many nurses find that having certification in their specialty of choice only enhances employment opportunities, whether it's a hard requirement or not.

What are the different types of nursing certifications?

Some certifications are based on career level, with specific certifications for Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) holders and other Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN), some for Registered Nurses (RN), some for Certified Nurse Assistants (CNA) and more. Other certifications are based on specialization, like surgery, oncology, pediatrics and others. Your nursing journey will depend on your career goals and interests, and we hope this guide will help you decide which certification is best for you.

What certifications do you need to become a registered nurse anesthetist?

Certified registered nurse anesthetists must complete a nurse anesthesia graduate program accredited by the Council on Accreditation (COA), and pass the certification test administered by the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA).

How to become a CNA without a degree?

You may obtain certification as a CNA without a degree by completing an approved training program and passing a skills exam.

How often do nurse practitioners need to renew their license?

Recertification or renewals vary depending on specialty and may range from every year to every five years.

Why is it important to have a nursing certification?

Nursing certifications ensure that nurses have the requisite education, experience and skills to care for patients and improve health outcomes. Having certain nursing certifications can help you secure a job, prepare for leadership roles and advance your nursing career.

What are the specialty areas for APRN?

Choose from one of four APRN specialty areas: AG-ACNP, FNP, NM/WHNP, or WHNP

What does it mean to be a nurse?

A career in nursing means you’ll have a heavy hand in improving the lives and quality of care for patients across the lifespan. Make sure to do your research and prepare yourself adequately for any certifications you want to obtain.

What is an AIDS certified nurse?

AIDS Certified Registered Nurse (ACRN) - Registered nurses who work directly with patients who are HIV positive or who have AIDS typically obtain this certification. As an AIDS certified registered nurse, or ACRN, you will be responsible for assisting patients with the physical, psychological and social issues that go along with the disease. You will also work to educate their families to ensure that they receive optimal care and support. ACRNs typically work in infectious disease units within hospitals, and many work in specialty clinics. To receive this certification, you'll need at least two years of experience in working with HIV/AIDS patients.

How much does it cost to become an ER pediatric nurse?

It is often required for nurses who work in NICUs and ERs. If so, your employer may cover the cost of obtaining the certification, which is around $300. For that price, you will be able to complete a 16-hour program and come away with a certification that lasts for four years.

What is ACLs in nursing?

Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) - Offered by the AHA, this certification demonstrates that you are capable of participating in or managing a code. Nurses who work in ERs and ICUs are usually required to have this certification, but it can be a great way to boost your marketability. If it's required, your employer will probably pay for it. The course, which costs around $150 and results in a two-year certification, teaches you how to identify different heart rhythms and to identify basic arrhythmia.

How much does it cost to get a neonatal certification?

You can obtain this certification by completing a four-hour course, which typically costs around $140. It may be free if you work in labor and delivery, the neonatal intensive care unit or in another neonatal area, as your employer may pay for it.

How many hours do you need to be an oncology nurse?

However, you won't be eligible to sit for the exam without meeting certain requirements. You must have at least 1,000 hours of experience in oncology within the last 2.5 years of your nursing career.

How much does it cost to take a trauma nursing course?

When it is required, employers usually pay for it. Otherwise, you can expect to pay around $300 to take the course, which runs 16 to 20 hours. In return, you will receive a four-year certification.

What attracted you to nursing?

Like many registered nurses, one of the things that probably initially attracted you to nursing was the promise of exceptional pay. Right out of nursing school, you should be able to get a nursing job that offers a pretty good salary and other benefits. However, if you aspire to move through the ranks and want access to the best positions and most competitive pay, it helps to earn certain certifications.

Why do nurses need to be certified?

First, it helps nurses refine their assessment skills. They can have a higher level of expertise and can recognize unexpected signs and symptoms in their patient population. Next, they are better equipped in developing a plan of care for their patients, using up-to-date interventions to treat them. Also, they are skilled in patient education, which is a huge part of a nurse's workflow. Becoming certified means they need to renew after a set number of years , which helps keep their knowledge base up-to-date in the ever-changing world of healthcare.

Why do nurses need advanced certification?

Earning an advanced certification can improve job prospects as well as lead to a higher pay grade. Employers look for nurses with a high level of knowledge and experience, as well as those who demonstrate initiative to seek educational opportunities.

What is a nurse practitioner?

Nurse practitioners practice under the rules and regulations of the Nurse Practice Act of the state in which they work. NPs can prescribe medication in every state and in the District of Columbia. The degree of independence with which they can prescribe drugs, medical devices (crutches, boots, etc.), or medical services varies from state to state. In many states and the District of Columbia, NPs have what is called " Full Practice Authority " - meaning they can practice independently without physician collaboration or supervision. Many nurse practitioners have their own practices and can be reimbursed by Medicare, Medicaid, or other third parties.

How long does it take to become a nurse practitioner?

Registered nurses looking to advance to nurse practitioners must first start with a bachelor of science degree ( BSN) in nursing. This takes about four years to complete. The minimum degree needed for an entry-level NP is a master’s degree in nursing ( MSN ), which takes an additional two or more years beyond the BSN.

Why are nurses lucky?

Nurses are lucky. Because there are so many facets of healthcare and a variety of care specialties, nurses have a broad range of educational opportunities. Not only can they be employed in a specific care area, but there is also a pretty good chance that there is an opportunity for advanced certification in that field.

Which organization advocates for full practice authority for nurse practitioners?

There are many organizations that advocate for full practice authority for nurse practitioners to include prescriptive privileges, including the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).

Can a nurse deliver a baby?

While RNs who work in labor and delivery might deliver a baby if the doctor doesn't make it into the room fast enough, the only nurses specifically trained and legally allowed to deliver babies are Certified Nurse-Midwives, also known as CNMs. Certified Nurse-Midwives assist at around 8 percent of all deliveries in the United States, according to the American College of Nurse-Midwives. Certified Nurse-Midwives advocate for client-driven birth choices with minimal medical intervention.

Why is it important to get a nursing certification?

Nursing certifications are important for recent graduates of nursing school because they provide a standardized, consistent way to prove your skills to future employers. As a new nursing school grad, you may have minimal work experience, so other credentials on your nursing resume are especially important. By completing nursing certifications as a new graduate, you can fulfill prerequisites for many entry-level nursing roles and showcase your initiative and ambition as a new nurse.

What to do after you graduate nursing school?

Once you graduate from a nursing program, you may start thinking about ways to make your job applications for nursing roles more competitive. Earning certifications for specialty nursing skills and competencies is one popular option for showing potential employers your aptitude for success as a nurse. By understanding which certifications you can earn as a recent graduate, you can make informed decisions about which courses and programs to pursue. In this article, we explain the benefits of earning certifications after you graduate nursing school and share some of the top certifications to consider.

What is ACLS certification?

The ACLS certification is one of the most common requirements for all nursing positions, especially those in hospital environments. It addresses what to do in cardiac emergencies, how to prevent cardiac arrest and best practices for caring for patients after cardiac events. As a new nurse, knowing what to do if a patient has a sudden heart or circulatory problem can help the care team protect their health and minimize damage.