How to Become a Certified Emergency Nurse

An emergency nurse must complete advanced certification in the field.

Becoming an certified emergency nurse requires several steps. A registered nurse license is required to obtain the clinical emergency nurse experience required to register for the emergency nurse certification examination. To obtain a registered nurse license, the student must complete a Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN), an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a diploma in nursing. The time required to complete these programs varies.

Instructions

1. Choose one of the three degree programs that can lead to obtaining a registered nurse license. The BSN option combines liberal arts coursework with professional nursing courses. Completing a BSN may lead to greater career opportunities and higher salaries, particularly at an advanced professional level. A BSN is also a requirement for admission to graduate programs in nursing.

2. Choose an ADN or diploma program if you want a program that lasts only two or three years. ADN programs are offered at community colleges, and diploma programs are offered at teaching hospitals. Accelerated programs exist for an ADN to obtain a BSN.

3. Submit an application to your state health board and to the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to register for the registered nurse examination. The state board reviews candidates' academic and personal background, including a criminal background check and verification of academic credentials.

4. Schedule a test date after you receive clearance from the state board and notice of authorization to test from the NCLEX. Order test preparation materials for the six-hour examination from Pearson, the NCLEX official distributor of National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN) test preparation materials. A passing score on the exam is required to obtain a registered nurse license.

5. The Board of Certified Emergency Nurses (BCEN) recommends two years of registered nurse experience and 1,000 hours of experience in an urgent or emergent care setting before seeking certification as an emergency nurse. Any stipulations or restrictions on your registered nurse license may disqualify you from receiving certification as an emergency nurse. To remove such restrictions submit appropriate explanatory letters and supporting documentation to the BCEN in a request for special consideration.

6. Register for the emergency nurse certification examination after you have received clearance from the BCEN. As of 2010, the cost of registration is $220 to $370, depending upon membership status to various nursing associations. Passing the exam provides certification for five years. For recertification after that time has elapsed, you must pass the certification examination again or complete continuing education coursework.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Registered Nurses
• Board Certification of Emergency Nurses: Eligibility Requirements
• National Council of State Boards of Nurses: Registration