Gerontology and ANCC Certification

The American Nurses Credentialing Center is the arm of the American Nurses Association responsible for providing certifications to professionals. The ANCC had granted certification to more than 250,000 nurses from 1990 to March 2011, according to its website. Among its certification programs are three types of credentials for nurses who specialize in gerontology, providing health care to the elderly.

Gerontological NP

Gerontological nurse practitioners independently diagnose and develop treatment plans for elderly patients and can order medical tests and prescribe medication. ANCC certification for gerontological NPs requires a minimum of a master's degree from an accredited gerontological nurse practitioner program. The program must include a minimum of 500 hours of clinical experience and courses in health assessment, pharmacology, pathophysiology, differential diagnoses and health promotion. Candidates must also have a valid registered nursing license. Qualified nurses must pass a certification test to gain the credential.

Gerontological CNS

Gerontological clinical nurse specialist serve as supervisors and consultants to registered nurses who work with gerontological patients. ANCC certification as a gerontological CNS requires a minimum of a master's degree from an accredited clinical gerontology nursing program. Like the NP certification, prospective CNS certificants must have a minimum of 500 hours of clinical training experience with coursework in health assessment, pharmacology and pathophysiology. Nurses must also have a valid RN license and take a written examination.

Gerontological Nursing

Gerontological nursing certification from the ANCC is for registered nurse who work primarily with elderly patients. In addition to a valid RN license, prospective certificants must have at least two years of experience in registered nursing to qualify for the credential. Candidates must also have 2,000 hours of clinical work experience with gerontological patients during the three years prior to applying for the certification. Additionally, candidates need to show evidence of completing at least 30 hours of continuing-education coursework in gerontology during the three years prior to their applications. Passing a written exam is necessary for certification.

Recertification

All three of the ANCC's gerontological nursing certifications remain valid for five years. Prior to the expiration of their credentials, certified nurses must apply to renew their licenses. To qualify for renewal, they must meet a minimum number of practice hours and receive continuing-education credits with the specific number of each varying based upon the type of certification. Nurses who have the necessary continuing education completed but not enough practice hours may renew their licenses by retaking the initial certification examination for their respective specialties.

References

• American Nurses Credentialing Center: About Us
• American Nurses Credentialing Center: Gerontological Nurse Practitioner
• American Nurses Credentialing Center: Gerontological Clinical Nurse Specialist
• American Nurses Credentialing Center: Gerontological Nursing
• American Nurses Credentialing Center: Renewal