Do You Know If Your Nursing Credentials Need to Be Updated?

Obtaining nursing credentials can be an excellent way for a nurse to prove their expertise in a field. Not only do credentials demonstrate knowledge, they also provide a nurse the ability to add those very precious letters to the end of their title. These initials also typically translate into a much higher salary and a world of opportunities. So, what are the top nursing credentials in the industry today, and when and how do they need to be recertified to remain active?

The Top Nursing Credentials

AIDS Certified Registered Nurse (ACRN)

This certification indicates that a nurse has a high level of training in the care of patients who have HIV/AIDS. To qualify to sit for the exam, a nurse needs at least two years of experience working with HIV/AIDS patients.

Recertification Required: Every 4 years

How to Recertify: The ACRN must either re-take and pass the exam or recertify by utilizing continuing education credits.

Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN)

More than 25,000 RNs hold the CPN credential. The CPN exam demonstrates an RN’s knowledge of pediatric nursing beyond the basic RN licensure. The pass rate for those RNs who sit for the exam is 79 percent. Once RNs get the CPN credential, typically 90 percent or greater renew the certification.

Recertification Required: Yearly

How to Recertify: The CPN needs to recertify every year during the open enrollment period between October 1 and January 31. Also, each year, a CPN must have 15 contact hours of accepted activity or participate in a Record Review Year Option.

Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse (AOCN)

As our population ages, AOCNs are needed since most cancers are diagnosed in people aged 55 or older. By 2030, more than one in five adults in the US will be 55 or older. The AOCN certification is a way for nurses to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in cancer care, which can open up a wide range of professional opportunities.

Recertification Required: Every 4 years

How to Recertify: AOCN renewal candidates must hold a current, active, unencumbered RN license. There are three options available to recertify. Option one is a combination of practice hours and Professional Development (ILNA points). Option two is a mix of practice hours and successful testing. Option three is a combination of ILNA points and successful testing.

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

The FNP credential certifies a nurse has clinical knowledge of family and individual care that covers the entire lifespan, which includes prenatal, pediatric, adolescent, adult, and elderly care.

Recertification Required: Every 5 years

How to Recertify: There are two options to renew. Option one allows FNPs to recertify by having a minimum of 1,000 hours of clinical practice and 100 hours of advanced CE (Continuing Education). Option two allows an FNP to recertify by examination.

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

In 2017, there were 49,746 registered nurse anesthetists with 2,437 being newly certified. For first-time CRNA exam candidates, the pass rate was 82.6 percent (in 2017).

Recertification Required: 8-year periods with two 4-year cycles

How to Recertify: In 2016, the CPC (Continued Professional Certification) Program replaced the former recertification program. The CPC is based on eight-year periods comprised of two four-year cycles. Within the CPC program, CRNAs need to earn Class A and Class B credits and take Optional Core Modules (optional in the first four-year cycle; required thereafter/beginning 2020/2021). Also, a two-year check-in is required (the window opened April 3, 2018).

Planning for the Future: Keeping Your Credentials Current

For a nurse, credentials are an investment in their future. Not only do credentials provide nurses with higher salaries, they also have the potential to open many doors to exciting opportunities. Once a nurse obtains a credential, it is essential to ensure this investment of time and money is kept up-to-date. Nurses who hold credentials should be aware of how long their credential is active and what steps they need to take to recertify.

Find Your Next Nursing Job!

If you are a nurse and you want to explore new opportunities where you can use your credentials, contact the experts at National Recruiters. At National Recruiters, we help nurses find the best options for their future. Contact our top healthcare recruiters today to learn more!

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