LPN Certification for Alzheimer's
About 76 percent of licensed practical nurses (LPNs) care for patients with dementias, with Alzheimer's being highly represented, according to a survey by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, which directs the licensing of LPNs. And with the number of people with Alzheimer's growing each year, having specialized knowledge in their care will be an important mark of distinction among LPNs. Several organizations offer certifications related to the care of Alzheimer's patients.
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Basics of Certification
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Most certification courses provide at least eight hours of training, giving a comprehensive overview of the disease and how to communicate with and care for individuals with Alzheimer's. Training typically covers topics in dementia, diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, communication, depression, repetitive behaviors, paranoia, hallucinations, wandering, hoarding, aggressive behaviors, pain management, bathing, dressing, toileting, nutrition, ethics, staff support, family support, care planning, pet and horticultural therapies, emergency management, spiritual care, and end of life issues.
National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners
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The National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners offers four certifications for those who serve as caregivers to people with Alzheimer's, including the Certified Dementia Practitioner, which requires extensive special training specifically for Alzheimer's care; the Certified Dementia Care Manager, which equips nurses for managing a unit with patients who suffer from Alzheimer's; the Certified First Responder Dementia Trainer, which is best for emergency room nurses who may be called to care for an Alzheimer's patient; and the NCCDP Alzheimer's Dementia Trainer, which prepares nurses to train others in the care of these patients.
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National Certification Board for Alzheimer's Care
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The National Certification Board for Alzheimer's Care grants the Certified Alzheimer's Caregiver and the Certified Alzheimer's Educator designation. The Caregiver certification is for those who are in direct care of people with Alzheimer's and offers them practical strategies for applying their training in care facilities. The Educator certification is to train the trainers and equip care providers to advocate outside the care facility for Alzheimer's patients.
Prerequisites
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Most accredited certification institutions require that nurses who want this training have work experience in geriatric care. Some require that nurses have some management experience, and all require that licensure be up to date and in good standing.
Reasons to Certify
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Certification is a symbol of excellence and a quality indicator. It helps nurses prove they've been trained in national standards, enabling them to work almost anywhere. Moreover, with the growing Alzheimer's population, it is a mark that separates one nurse from another. Also an indicator of a commitment to continuing education, nurses who get additional certification have smoothed the path to promotion and career advancement.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit nurse on her cell image by Tracy Martinez from Fotolia.com
