RN CEUs Aren’t Compulsory, But Many Employers Make Them Mandatory
RN CEUs Aren’t Compulsory
Most licenses and certifications require continuing education, and nursing is no exception. Nursing professionals must take a variety of courses to stay current in their field. Many states have requirements for specific topics, such as CPR training or advanced lifesaving courses. Other states require nurses to take courses to maintain their certification, such as CNA courses, in order to remain current. Taking CEUs isn’t compulsory, but many employers will offer incentives for nurses to take them.
To meet the requirements for continuing education, nurses must take courses approved by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), which is recognized by state boards. These courses help nurses stay current in their field and improve their earning potential. They also ensure that they are providing the best care possible to their patients. Because nurses lead such busy lives, it can be difficult for them to fit in continuing education, but there are ways to accommodate the requirements for RNs.
The state Board of Nursing requires nurses to select continuing education activities that meet requirements outlined in Chapter 216 of the California Code of Regulations. RNs are also required to maintain records documenting their attendance. Typically, RNs must keep their records for three licensing cycles. However, if they have completed a course for financial gain, it can only count once during the renewal cycle. Moreover, nurses must keep their grade slips and certificates for four years.
RN CEUs are generally accepted by the state board if they are offered by an accredited institution. However, nurses should check with the board of nursing before enrolling in any CEU course. Generally, the courses must be related to nursing. In addition, the courses must be accredited by the ANCC or another recognized organization. Some healthcare organizations offer free CEUs to their employees.
RN CEUs Aren’t Compulsory, But Many Employers Make Them Mandatory
Nursing is an ever-changing field, so it is imperative to keep abreast of new developments in the field. Completing continuing education shows a dedication to learning. Not only will continuing education help RNs stay current, but it will also develop their knowledge and skills. Many states require RNs and LPNs to take a certain number of CEU courses.
RNs should complete a certain number of CEUs each year to stay current. In addition to the state board requirement, nursing organizations have their own CE requirements. Most certifying organizations require that a portion of their CE programs be peer-reviewed. If you’re unsure of the requirements for CE, check with the organization that provides certification. Some states require a minimum of 24 hours of CE for license renewal every two years.
In addition to the minimum amount of CEUs required by states, RNs also need to take a few hours of continuing education. A minimum of 24 contact hours is required every two years, and ARNPs are required to complete five additional hours. This includes 12 hours of courses in pharmacology and clinical management. These hours may count toward fulfilling the state’s CEU requirement for RN license renewal.
California requires nurses to complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years. They must also pay a renewal fee. In addition to completing the course, nurses must keep a record of their attendance. This record must be kept for at least three consecutive licensing periods. For instance, if you have taken a course that requires forensic evidence collection, you must keep a record of your attendance.
Continuing education for nurses is important for every nurse’s career. All states require nurses to complete a certain number of hours of CE each year to maintain their licenses. Some of these courses may be mandatory, while others are optional. Most states also require specialized nurses to continue their education for their licenses.