Nursing 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 nursing board certification important?
There are many benefits to nursing board certification, including:
Increased job opportunities:
Nursing board certified RNs are in high demand in all healthcare settings.
Higher salary:
Nursing board certified RNs typically earn a higher salary than non-certified RNs.
More credibility with patients and employers:
Nursing board certification shows that an RN has met the highest standards of practice.
Opportunity to advance your career:
Nursing board certification is often required for leadership positions in nursing.
Enhanced professional development:
Nursing 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 nursing board certification?
Nursing 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 nursing board certification work?
To get nursing 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 a nursing board certification exam.
Types of nursing board certification
There are three main types of nursing 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 nursing board certification
The requirements for nursing 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 a nursing board certification exam.
How to prepare for a nursing board certification exam
There are a few things RNs can do to prepare for a nursing board certification exam:
- Take a review course: There are many review courses available that can help RNs prepare for the exam.
- Study the nursing 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 a nursing board certification exam
To take a nursing 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 a nursing board certification exam
Once you pass a nursing board certification exam, you will receive your nursing board certification certificate. You must renew your nursing board certification every few years by completing continuing education credits.
Conclusion
Nursing 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 nursing board certification, be sure to do your research and choose a certification body that is accredited and respected.
