Are you a nurse looking for career advancement in geriatric nursing? With the aging population, the need for qualified and experienced geriatric nurses is growing. But with advancements in technology, geriatric nursing is becoming even more challenging. To stay ahead of the curve, you need to get certified in geriatric nursing to ensure that you have the skills and knowledge needed to provide the best care possible to your patients. Certification in geriatric nursing will give you an edge in the job market, as employers are increasingly looking for nurses who have specialized training in geriatric care.
In this article, we'll explore the benefits of certification in geriatric nursing and how it can help advance your career.
Advantages of Certification
Earning a geriatric nursing certification can provide a range of advantages for those looking to advance their career in the medical field. Becoming certified offers job security, increased earning potential, and greater access to promotions. It also helps to validate an individual's knowledge and skills in the field and demonstrates their commitment to their profession.The qualifications and requirements for becoming a certified geriatric nurse vary by country or region. Generally, individuals must have completed a nursing program approved by the relevant governing body and have at least two years of experience working in a geriatric care setting. Additional requirements may include passing an exam or completing additional training courses.
Certification provides greater job security
.Individuals with certification are more likely to be hired and retain their position during times of economic downturns. They may also be eligible for higher salaries than non-certified professionals.
It also increases their chances of promotion
, as many employers value certification when considering applicants for higher positions.Finally, certification helps validate an individual's knowledge and skills
.It demonstrates to employers that an individual has the necessary expertise to excel in the field.
Qualifications and Requirements
In order to become certified in geriatric nursing, individuals must first meet a certain set of qualifications and requirements. Generally, these include having a valid and unrestricted RN license in the state of practice, along with a minimum of two years of nursing experience in geriatric care. Additionally, applicants must have completed 30 hours of continuing education related to geriatric nursing within the past three years.Applicants are also required to pass the exam administered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). The exam is divided into two parts: the written portion and the clinical simulation. The written portion consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as gerontological nursing care, end-of-life care, and interdisciplinary team management. The clinical simulation section involves completing various tasks related to geriatric nursing, such as providing patient assessment and care or responding to various scenarios.
Once an individual has fulfilled all the qualifications and requirements for certification, they can apply for certification through the ANCC. The application process typically involves submitting transcripts, proof of RN licensure, a current resume/CV, and any other documentation required by the ANCC.
Steps to Becoming Certified
Steps to Becoming Certified in Geriatric NursingIn order to become certified in geriatric nursing, there are several steps that must be taken. These include completing an accredited nursing program, obtaining a license to practice in the state where the certification is being sought, obtaining the necessary experience, and taking an exam to become certified.Each of these steps will be discussed in more detail below. First, those looking to become certified in geriatric nursing must complete an accredited nursing program. This program can either be completed at a college or university or through a distance learning program. Once the program has been completed, students will then need to obtain a license from the state in which they are seeking certification. In some states, students may also need to pass a criminal background check before they are eligible for licensing. Next, those seeking certification in geriatric nursing will need to obtain the necessary experience.
Typically, this involves working as a registered nurse in a geriatric setting for at least one year. After this experience has been obtained, individuals can then take an exam in order to become certified. The exam typically consists of both written and practical components. Finally, once the exam has been successfully completed, individuals will then be eligible for certification. Depending on the state, individuals may need to pay a fee and submit additional paperwork in order to receive their certification.
Once certification is obtained, individuals will then be able to work as a geriatric nurse with the added benefit of being able to provide specialized care for elderly patients.
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