ANCC board certification is a voluntary process that allows registered nurses (RNs) to demonstrate their skills and knowledge to patients, employers, and other healthcare professionals. It is also a way for RNs to advance their careers and earn a higher salary.
Why is ANCC board certification important?
There are many benefits to ANCC board certification, including:
Increased job opportunities:
ANCC-board certified RNs are in high demand in all healthcare settings.
Higher salary:
ANCC-board certified RNs typically earn a higher salary than non-certified RNs.
More credibility with patients and employers:
ANCC board certification shows that an RN has met the highest standards of practice.
Opportunity to advance your career:
ANCC board certification is often required for leadership positions in nursing.
Enhanced professional development:
ANCC board certification can help RNs stay up-to-date on the latest nursing practices and technologies.
Increased job satisfaction:
Many RNs find that being certified increases their job satisfaction.
Who should get ANCC board certification?
ANCC board certification is a good option for RNs who want to:
- Demonstrate their skills and knowledge to patients, employers, and other healthcare professionals.
- Advance their careers in nursing.
- Earn a higher salary.
- Stay up-to-date on the latest nursing practices and technologies.
- Increase their job satisfaction.
How does ANCC board certification work?
To get ANCC board certification, RNs must first meet the requirements of the certification body they want to be certified by. These requirements typically include graduation from an accredited nursing program, current RN license, and a minimum amount of nursing experience. RNs must also pass an ANCC board certification exam.
Types of ANCC board certification
There are three main types of ANCC board certification:
General nursing certification:
This type of certification is for RNs who want to demonstrate their general nursing knowledge and skills.
Specialty nursing certification:
This type of certification is for RNs who want to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in a particular nursing specialty, such as critical care nursing or oncology nursing.
Advanced practice nursing certification:
This type of certification is for RNs who have completed advanced practice nursing education and training.
Requirements for ANCC board certification
The requirements for ANCC board certification vary depending on the certification body. However, most certification bodies require RNs to meet the following requirements:
- Graduation from an accredited nursing program.
- Current RN license.
- Minimum amount of nursing experience.
- Pass an ANCC board certification exam.
How to prepare for an ANCC board certification exam
There are a few things RNs can do to prepare for an ANCC board certification exam:
- Take a review course: There are many review courses available that can help RNs prepare for the exam.
- Study the ANCC board certification exam content outline: The content outline lists the topics that will be covered on the exam.
- Practice answering sample questions: There are many practice questions available online and in review courses.
Taking an ANCC board certification exam
To take an ANCC board certification exam, RNs must register with the certification body they want to be certified by. The exam is offered multiple times throughout the year at testing centers across the United States.
After you pass an ANCC board certification exam
Once you pass an ANCC board certification exam, you will receive your ANCC board certification certificate. You must renew your ANCC board certification every five years by completing continuing education credits.
Renewing your ANCC board certification
To renew your ANCC board certification, you must complete 30 continuing education credits every five years. You can earn continuing education credits through a variety of activities, such as attending workshops, taking online courses, and publishing articles in nursing journals.
Conclusion
ANCC board certification is a valuable credential for RNs who want to demonstrate their skills and knowledge, advance their careers, and earn a higher salary. If you are considering getting ANCC board certification, be sure to do your research and choose a certification body that is accredited and respected.
