Have you heard "nursing certification" over and over, but aren't sure what it really means?
you are not alone!
Everyone seems to expect NP students and new nurse practitioners to understand the credential, but few actually do.
Let me introduce you to the basics of nursing licensure and show you specifically what you are responsible for and what your employer is responsible for!
Take a deep breath, I understand you!
In this video you will learn:
- Practical Definition of Nursing Credentials
- Which credentials allow you to act as an NP
- what you are responsible for and the timetable you must follow
- Employer Aspects of the Nurse Credentialing Process and How It Affects the Start Date Calendar!
Speaking of conditions: if you want my handNP Survival Kit–download now！
Keep scrolling if you likedocumentEverything in this NP credential review is about the credential.
What is a Nursing Credential?
We're going to start with the basics today because the term credential is something we hear and use a lot. But as a new nurse practitioner or NP student, you may not know exactly what that means.
I'm going to break it down into some very understandable terms and steps so that by the end of this article you'll have a better understanding of what's going on and what to do next because the new example if you want Something, can you refer to it when this problem comes up again?Download My NP Credentials Cheat Sheet.
So what are credentials?
Generally speaking, credentialing means that you are qualified to be a nurse. There are a lot of things to do to complete the certification processThaiYou are personally responsible.
Your employer supports a different set of certification steps. We'll get to that later, but first I'll start with what you need to do to get certified.
What are the different components of nurse certification?
First thing on the list of credentials: Nursing school graduation!
Yes, this may seem obvious, but I get a lot of questions from NP students and new NP grads about the exact sequence of operations that need to be done before, during, and after NP graduation. i cover everythingGraduation timeline in this blog post.so yes, you have to go to NP school first. You graduate with an MSN or DNP, which basically gets you educated and licensed to serve on a nursing board.
so this is the firstelementCertificate, I guess you could say it's your diploma or transcript.
But the second thing that is just as important, if not more important, is your board.
If you are in NP school, you are writing a specific paper and preparing for a specific board exam. When you accept these prompts and complete or pass them, you will receive an official certificate. This is really the first important checkbox for getting credentials. This means you are board certified and are considered a board certified nurse by the certifying agency.
It may be helpful to think of each element of the credential as an umbrella. Board accreditation is national. There is no status specific to board certification. Everyone, no matter what state they live in, if they are in the United States, they are tested by a specific certifying agency. Whether you are in New York or California, if you are an FNP, you must take one of two NP exams.
Another credential is your state license.
After you graduate and get your plate, you can apply for a state nursing license. Some states are different now and are handled differently. That's why some states refer to it as the APRN or Advanced Practice Nurse, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse License. This is a general term because whilesoybeansFor "nurse practitioners," I should really say that our RNM and RNA colleagues fall under this advanced practice nursing umbrella.
Therefore, from a state perspective, this credential element varies from state to state. You will need to contact your board of nursing to find out who is considering you for licensure in your state.
In New York City, I was an APRN, and while I was working in Ohio, I was licensed as a CNP or Certified Nurse Practitioner. Therefore, this step is important to contact the Nursing Board. Some states combine nurses with RN licensure, while others do not. And in some places you like, like in California, you have to apply for an additional registration number to be able to rewrite. So this authentication step is at the state level and is tied to your license.
Another part of your credentials that you are usually responsible for is the National Provider Identification Number, or NPI.
Your NPI is issued at the federal level and adds you to a national list of providers such as physicians, advanced practice providers, etc. This part of their certification process is administered by CMS, which is the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid, which is actually an insurance.
So if you work in a clinic that pays cash, technically yes, you can work out without it. But most likely, you work at a medical facility that is billed by insurance. If so, you must obtain your NPI number and give it to your employer.ICredentials are over and they have your registration number.
If you plan to prescribe this drug, you will need another federal license: your DEA number.
DEA stands for Drug Enforcement Administration, and this document proves your consent to the prescription, medication, etc. Reserve. You will want to acquire this license if this will be part of your practice. If your employer is willing to pay for it, great news! Because right now, as of 2020, a three-year license costs $731. So it's something you'll probably need from most suppliers, most NPS will require it, but there's very little chance your employer will pay for it, in which case if you're a recent graduate and you know Your employer will pay. You can arrange a refund for this.
If you do the process yourself, the advantage is that it can be done entirely online.
Well, that sums up the certificate steps you will be responsible for as an NP graduate. You can:
- NP school graduate
- Sit on your board (and get certified when you pass!)
- Apply for State License
- Then number your NPI
- And may apply for a DEA license.
What parts of the certificate will my employer handle?
Now your employer gives you another page of certificates. so these are the stepsthemMost of the time it's done for you.
The first process they will go into is basically becoming a legitimate care insurance company.
What the employer will do on your behalf is identify all the documents they need from you and pass all of this information on to the major insurance companies they bill you. That way, when you see patients, they can collect money for the patients you see because you are a registered provider with that insurance company. So, as far as credentials go, that's the first big thing that happens on the employer's side.
The employer's certification also includes medical malpractice insurance records.
This should also be a conversation you have with your employer. Do you offer malpractice insurance? Is this the benefit of your job? What else do you need besides the malpractice coverage they offer?
If you will be seeing patients in a hospital, another aspect of the employer certificate is to help you gain the privileges of the hospital's medical staff.
Even though you are licensed, certified, and registered with various insurance companies, each hospital has a process that allows you to become an approved provider within that hospital. This allows you to receive patients under the terms of the Medical Personnel Regulations. I warn youperhapsLong process even if you already have an NP license. Even if you change jobs in the same state and are registered with all of these insurance companies, this can be a lengthy process.
It's good to know what's going on behind the scenes at your employer. That way, you won't be surprised if the authentication process is often lengthy.
Can I start working before I qualify?
NoticeNoThat certificate doesn't always stop you from working. Once licensed and certified, you can legally work as a nurse. However, you may not be able tobill.This is what it looks like. Let's say you have a planning instruction period of one or two months. Even if employer certification is not complete, your employer may tell you to start! because you are allowedWorkAs an NP and may settle with another provider during orientation.
Pooh. I hope this clarifies what an NP certificate is. It makes you feel more comfortable with certain responsibilities.
Now that you have a better understanding of credentials, download my freenurse emergency kit.This includes a summary and glossary of all the different elements of the Nursing Certificate that we cover today. And a schedule of what to do before, during, and each month after graduation!
FAQs
What is the easiest nursing certification to obtain? ›
Of all the nursing certifications, LPN or LVN programs are the quickest and most convenient options. Because training can be completed at a hospital, vocational technical school, community college and even online, LPN/LVN programs are ideal for students who work or have other obligations.
What are the 5 nursing certifications? ›- Acute/Critical Care Nursing (CCRN) ...
- AIDS Certified Registered Nurse (ACRN) ...
- Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN) ...
- Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) ...
- Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN)
Emergency nursing is considered one of the most difficult fields of nursing, and certification in this specialty is highly desirable.
Are nursing certifications worth it? ›Increase Recognition and Respect
Certification demonstrates that a nurse has proven their competence and distinguished themselves within their specialty — two qualities that are appreciated by everyone from supervisors and administrators to peers and patients.
The fastest way to become an RN is through an RN diploma program, which can be completed in as little as a year. While completing this program does not lead to a degree, it does make the individual eligible to take the NCLEX and earn their RN license.
What is the fastest you can become an RN? ›ADN and Related Programs
The way to become an RN with the lowest level of education is to go through an associate's degree in nursing or ADN program. Most ADN programs are two years long and are held at community colleges. There are numerous options to choose from, including part-time and full-time programs.
One of the shortest certification programs is the certified nursing assistant (CNA) training program. Some CNA programs last as little as 12 to 18 weeks. Others may offer up to one year of training. The requirements of your state and the program you attend can affect the specific length of attendance.
What are the 4 A's in nursing? ›As a systematic process for change, this article offers the AACN's Model to Rise Above Moral Distress, describing four A's: ask, affirm, assess, and act. To help critical care nurses working to address moral distress, the article identifies 11 action steps they can take to develop an ethical practice environment.
What is the lowest GPA for nursing? ›While most nursing schools set their minimum GPA requirements at 3.0, there are accelerated nursing programs out there that accept students with 2.7 and 2.8 GPAs. Keep in mind that this doesn't mean you'd receive a lesser nursing education with these programs.
What is the hardest job as a nurse? ›The most stressful nursing jobs include ICU nurse, ER nurse, and NICU nurse. In these roles, nurses work in an intense environment with high stakes. They manage emergency situations and care for critically ill patients. Other stressful nursing jobs include OR nursing, oncology nursing, and psychiatric nursing.
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.
Which accreditation is best for nursing? ›The two most prominent nursing accreditation agencies are the ACEN, a subsidiary of the National League for Nursing, and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), a division of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN).
What percentage of nurses are certified? ›The proportion of nurses with specialty certification varied widely by hospital. In the average Magnet hospital, over half (51%) of nurses were certified compared to only 34% of nurses in non-Magnet hospitals.
Is a certified nurse better than a registered nurse? ›When comparing an RN and a CNA, the scope of work varies. RNs have more autonomy to do their jobs compared with CNAs, who are assistants to RNs and other medical providers. CNAs have a more limited scope and work under supervision, but they alleviate the workload of others, allowing for better overall patient care.
What state has the easiest Nclex? ›There is no “easy” state to take the NCLEX. The NCLEX is a national exam administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). Because it's national, the NCLEX will be the same regardless of what state you choose to take it in. Check out the comprehensive NCLEX prep review that I recommend.
What states have unlimited Nclex attempts? ›- Alabama.
- Arizona.
- Arkansas.
- California.
- Connecticut.
- Idaho.
- Iowa.
- Kansas.
Nursing schools are highly selective, and their admissions process is just as rigorous as any medical school. Nursing is a rewarding, well-paying and coveted career, with plenty of opportunities for growth and continuing education, so the competition for applicants is high.
How much do most RN make an hour? ›| Years of experience | Per hour |
|---|---|
| 1 to 2 years | $52.87 |
| 3 to 5 years | $55.49 |
| 6 to 9 years | $57.49 |
| More than 10 years | $64.28 |
Nursing is a fantastic career, no matter what age you are. When you think of nursing school, you likely envision young people 18–24, but there are actually many nurses who don't get their RNs until their 30s, 40s, or 50s! You're not too old just because you're older than the average student.
Is 40 too old to become a RN? ›Despite the increased educational requirements for becoming a full registered nurse, becoming a nurse at 40 is not at all too late. You also don't need to wait until you are an RN to enter and work in the field (which you can enter in a matter of months).
What is the highest paid certified nurse? ›
What is the highest-paid nurse? Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists! Earning $195,610 annually, CRNAs earn significantly more than any other type of nurse or nursing specialty.
Who are the highest to lowest paid nurses? ›- Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse – $120,000.
- General Nurse Practitioner – $118,000.
- Critical Care Nurse – $118,000.
- Certified Nurse Midwife – $114,000.
- Informatics Nurse – $102,000.
- Clinical Nurse Specialist – $95,000.
- Nurse Educator – $82,000.
- Legal Nurse Consultant – $81,000.
What Are the Levels of Nursing? There are five levels of nursing: Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Registered Nurse (RN), Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
What is the hardest nursing semester? ›Without question, the most difficult semester for me was the last semester of my junior year in nursing school. I attended a 4-year BSN program, and that particular semester included three classes that were very content-heavy, as well as the corresponding clinical hours for those classes.
Can I study nursing in USA for free? ›To combat the region's nursing shortage, the University of Rochester Medical Center and School of Nursing today announced an innovative program to provide a tuition-free nursing education for 33 students per year, with the first cohort expected to enroll in Fall 2023.
What are the minimum requirements for nursing? ›- A graduated Bachelor's degree.
- Official transcript of records (grade list)
- GPA scores.
- A resume with relevant experience in the field of Nursing.
- Letters of recommendation from past teachers or employers.
- Recommender's contact information.
- A letter of motivation or personal essay.
Paramount among these are the "3Cs": consistency, continuity, and coordination of patient care.
What are the 8 C's in nursing? ›These caring elements can be described as: Compassion, Competence, Confidence, Conscience, Commitment, Courage, Culture and Communication.
What are the 6 C's in nursing notes? ›The 6 Cs – care, compassion, courage, communication, commitment, competence - are a central part of 'Compassion in Practice', which was first established by NHS England Chief Nursing Officer, Jane Cummings, in December 2017.
Can I be a nurse with a 2.5 GPA? ›Yes, it is possible to get into a nursing program with a 2.5 GPA. Many programs accept students with a lower GPA. It may take some extra work from you, though, especially if you are applying to a school that typically requires a higher GPA.
What state is the easiest to become a nurse? ›
- Maine: 1-2 weeks.
- Maryland: 2-3 days.
- Missouri: 2 weeks.
- Nevada: 1-2 weeks.
- North Carolina: 1-2 weeks.
- North Dakota: 1-2 weeks.
- Texas: 2 weeks.
- Vermont: 3-5 business days.
GPA requirements vary from school to school, and some early admission nursing programs require an even higher GPA of at least 3.8 or higher (weighted or unweighted). In general, you can expect that any highly competitive nursing program will have a high GPA requirement for applicants.
Which nurses have the most burnout? ›Critical care nurses suffer the highest rates of burnout.
This is mainly due to the nature of the job, as critical care nurses work specialize in the emergency department (ED) and intensive care unit (ICU). As such, their work environment is constantly fast-paced, meticulous, and demanding.
Institutional Nurses
These nurses administer more basic care and typically don't have to work long hours and overnight shifts, so this field of nursing tends to be low-stress. Even with less excitement, these nurses find fulfillment in providing basic and family care to those in need.
Improved Confidence and Morale
Board-certified nurses report improved confidence in their work, according to the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN). They also experience better morale and job satisfaction. Certification validates their knowledge and dedication to their profession.
Nursing is the nation's largest healthcare profession, with nearly 4.2 million registered nurses (RNs) nationwide. Of all licensed RNs, 84.1% are employed in nursing. The federal government projects that more than 203,000 new registered nurse positions will be created each year from 2021-2031.
What are the benefits of Cmsrn? ›The CMSRN exam validates the expertise and knowledge of the medical surgical nurse and promotes medical-surgical nursing as a unique specialty. The CMSRN credential recognizes that the highest standards of medical surgical nursing practice have been achieved.
Can you take the NCLEX without going to an accredited nursing school? ›In order for nursing graduates to be eligible to take the NCLEX, the U.S. nursing regulatory model dictates that the new nurse must show evidence of graduating from a nursing regulatory body that is an approved nursing program.
What accreditation do most hospitals use? ›The Joint Commission has been accrediting hospitals for over 70 years.
Can you take the NCLEX if your school loses accreditation? ›Students who graduate from a unaccredited program lose the ability to transfer their credits to another school or attend a graduate program. It also means they will not be able to sit for the NCLEX and cannot become a registered nurse.
What is the most educated 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 average age of a nurse? ›Average Age Of Nurses
The average age of a registered nurse in the United States is 44, though this may change as the demand for nurses increases.
California contains the most professionally active registered nurses in the U.S. with 337,738 RNs, according to a ranking from the Kaiser Family Foundation.
What is the highest nurse position? ›Understanding the Hierarchy of Nursing. Chief Nursing Officer (CNO): The CNO, sometimes referred to as the chief nursing executive (CNE), is at the top of the pyramid. This position usually works under the CEO of the hospital or agency and has administrative and supervisory roles.
What is the easiest nursing class? ›- Social Sciences (Intro Psychology, Sociology, etc.)
- Humanities.
- Intro to Speech (or Communication)
- English Composition.
- History.
- Using Information Technology.
| Degree | Program Length |
|---|---|
| LPN/LVN (Diploma or Certificate) | 1 year |
| Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) | 2 years |
| Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) | 4 years |
| Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) | 2 years |
So, you know from the data above that the CCRN exam is likely harder than the NCLEX. Now, you need to know how to be among the 79% that pass each year. Get your experience. The best way to increase your odds of passing your exam is to have sufficient experience working in critical care.
Is PCCN worth it? ›A: PCCN certification helps you maintain an up-to-date knowledge base of care of acutely ill adult patients. In addition to providing you with a sense of professional pride and achievement, PCCN certification reinforces the special knowledge and experiences required for progressive care nursing.
What is the hardest in nursing? ›- Pathophysiology. In this course, students learn how different anatomical systems work and how diseases or injuries affect these systems. ...
- Pharmacology. ...
- Medical Surgical 1 (also known as Adult Health 1) ...
- Evidence-Based Practice.
- Follow the nursing exam study guide. ...
- Focus on the material covered in class. ...
- Think in terms of action, not facts. ...
- Form a study group. ...
- Skim-read first. ...
- Use outside sources. ...
- Know your learning style. ...
- Use downtime as study time.
What state has the cheapest nursing school? ›
The most affordable nursing schools in the US are Oklahoma City University, Florida State University, and University of West Georgia. Our list of affordable nursing programs covers bachelor's, master's, and doctorate programs that will help advance your career in nursing or healthcare.
Where is the cheapest to study nursing? ›Norway. Norway comes in first as the cheapest in the world to pursue a nursing degree since most Norwegian public institutions do charge tuition fees. The best part? All international students qualify for this benefit.