How and why to get certified when you are a nurse
Professional development and education are lifelong processes when you’re a nurse. Becoming certified is a great way to develop professionally, advance your career, and become more specialized in your nursing practice. Obtaining a certification sets you apart from your peers in terms of knowledge and specialty by demonstrating your commitment to providing the highest quality care. Many employers encourage their staff to become certified, even offering incentives and higher pay scales.
Many nurses want to become certified but don’t know where to begin. Becoming certified can seem like a complicated process, which is often a deterrent to nurses seeking to obtain a certification. It’s a decision not to take lightly and requires planning and setting aside time to devote to preparation. But look no further - here are all the necessary steps.
Explore certifications.
The first critical step is to visit the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Certification Program site. Here you will find a list of all the available certifications for RNs and APRNs. This step is important, since you may not be eligible for specific certifications. Clicking on a specialty you are interested in will take you to the four step process of confirming pricing and eligibility, the application, submitting education verification documents, and testing options. Study aids, including test content outlines, test reference lists, sample questions with answers, and other helpful links, are listed at the bottom of the certification specialty page.
Visiting the specialty page is a great way to know what this process will entail. Be sure to evaluate the requirements and particularly the renewal information to be sure it aligns with your career and professional goals. Considering your career trajectory will help you narrow down options. Reaching out to your peers in your unit, your education department, and your managers is a great starting point to help you consider and narrow down your specialty. Many organizations will reimburse you for fees associated with certification. Your organization will be able to assist you with these details.
Develop a preparation plan.
After deciding on a certification specialty, be sure to develop your plan for preparing to take the certification exam. Studying can seem extremely overwhelming and even impossible, but do not get discouraged! Take advantage of every resource you have available. The AANC site has a wealth of resources right at your fingertips. Many organizations offer free review courses and other supportive options, so be sure to ask about these resources when checking with your organization.
Creating your personal study plan is another critical step to successfully obtaining your certification. Consider the methods of test preparation that seem to be best for you and follow through with the plan you put in place by setting achievable goals every step of the way.
Take a review class if available.
Consider various study methods such as utilizing a study buddy or group, online resources, reviewing textbooks, and joining an online community.
Be realistic in the timeline completion and your self-expectations.
Pace your studying by taking breaks, changing your study patterns, or breaking up studying into smaller tasks.
Testing options
There are two ways you can take your exam: at a Prometric Test center where a computer is provided or through a remotely proctored internet-enabled location of your choice. These options depend on the exam you are taking. If you choose the remote option, be sure you have a computer with a camera, microphone, and stable internet connection. Verify all computer specifications on the ANCC site and complete the system check to be sure your computer and network will allow testing. Both testing options require scheduling.
The day before and the day of your exam
The night before your exam, eat well and de-stress throughout the day. Getting a good night's rest is also essential. Review the testing link to be sure you have all the necessary items and know where you are going. On exam day, be sure to start on a good note. Eat a light, nutritious breakfast, and check the status of your testing center location. Allow plenty of time to arrive at the testing center to avoid unforeseen issues. Be sure to take any documents you need, including your valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID. If using the remote option, be sure your computer is fully charged and in a perfect location to minimize distractions and interruptions. Take some deep breaths and feel confident as you enter the testing center or are logging into your computer, knowing you have prepared well and know your material.
Feeling well-informed and assured in taking on this process by carefully following through with your preparation plan are critical components of obtaining your nursing certification. Understanding the process and picking the appropriate specialty are also very important.
Once you have received your certification, display your new credentials with pride!