RN-BC Certification: Everything You Need to Know
RN-BC certification is a voluntary certification program for registered nurses (RNs) in the United States. It is offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and demonstrates that an RN has met the highest standards of nursing practice.
Why is RN-BC certification important?
There are many benefits to RN-BC certification, including:
- Increased job opportunities: RN-BC certified nurses are in high demand in all healthcare settings.
- Higher salary: RN-BC certified nurses typically earn a higher salary than non-certified nurses.
- More credibility with patients and employers: RN-BC certification shows that a nurse has met the highest standards of practice.
- Opportunity to advance your career: RN-BC certification is often required for leadership positions in nursing.
Who should get RN-BC certification?
RN-BC certification is a good option for RNs who want to demonstrate their skills and knowledge to patients, employers, and other healthcare professionals. It is also a good option for RNs who want to advance their careers in nursing.
How to get RN-BC certification
To get RN-BC certification, you must meet the following requirements:
- Graduation from an accredited nursing program
- Current RN license
- Minimum of one year of full-time nursing experience
- Pass the RN-BC certification exam
How to prepare for the RN-BC certification exam
There are a few things you can do to prepare for the RN-BC certification exam:
- Take a review course: There are many review courses available that can help you prepare for the exam.
- Study the RN-BC certification exam content outline: The content outline lists the topics that will be covered on the exam.
- Practice answering sample questions: There are many practice questions available online and in review courses.
Taking the RN-BC certification exam
To take the RN-BC certification exam, you must register with the ANCC. The exam is offered multiple times throughout the year at testing centers across the United States.
After you pass the RN-BC certification exam
Once you pass the RN-BC certification exam, you will receive your RN-BC certificate. You must renew your RN-BC certification every five years by completing continuing education credits.
FAQs
What is the difference between RN-BC and RN?
An RN is a registered nurse who has graduated from an accredited nursing program and passed the NCLEX-RN exam. An RN-BC certified nurse is an RN who has also met the requirements for RN-BC certification.
How long is the RN-BC certification valid?
The RN-BC certification is valid for five years. To renew your RN-BC certification, you must complete continuing education credits.
How can I renew my RN-BC certification?
To renew your RN-BC certification, you must complete 30 continuing education credits over a five-year period. You can earn continuing education credits through a variety of activities, such as attending workshops, taking online courses, and publishing articles in nursing journals.
Can I get RN-BC certification if I am not a US citizen?
Yes, you can get RN-BC certification if you are not a US citizen. However, you must meet all of the requirements for RN-BC certification, including having a current RN license in the United States.
