CEUs Work For Nurses
If you’re a nurse, you might be wondering how CEUs work. While many nursing unions and large hospitals offer continuing education courses, you can also find independent continuing education providers online. Most CEs are affordable and allow you to study whenever it suits you, which is especially helpful for nurses who are already overloaded with their hectic schedules. Also, solo online learning ensures that you can study without distractions.
Continuing education is available in many forms, but not all courses are approved as nursing CEUs. Many healthcare professionals take courses that do not qualify, such as CPR or advanced life-saving courses. Many states have specific standards regarding what can and cannot be considered “continuing education” and can’t count towards Nurse CEUs. For instance, in New York, nursing professionals must complete courses on identifying and reporting child abuse, infection control, and pain management. In Michigan, one hour of pain management education is required.
Conferences are also great opportunities to network with other nurses and learn new things. You’ll hear from renowned nursing experts and attend breakout sessions that are interactive and educational. Besides, attending a conference is fun – you can travel while you’re earning CEUs. Some of these events offer fun nights in new cities and nice hotel accommodations. MER also lists the schedule of conference offerings. They’ll also help you find free CE courses.
How Do CEUs Work For Nurses?
If you’re a nurse looking for continuing education credits, you’ll find that CEUs are essential. Taking continuing education hours helps you stay current on important changes in healthcare and keep your license current. However, you’ll need to be diligent in choosing the courses and topics you take to earn your CEs. By taking advantage of these opportunities, you’ll be well-prepared for the future. This will make your job easier and make your career more successful.
After becoming licensed, you must complete a specific number of CEs. Most states require new nurses to complete a specified number of hours of continuing education. However, some states require that all nurses complete some CE to remain licensed. In California, for example, new RNs must take at least thirty contact hours of HIV/AIDS CE every two years in order to remain licensed. RNs, however, can opt to complete their CEs over the next two years.
CEs can be obtained in many ways. Some are free, while others are part of a subscription. You can also purchase a single course or subscription. Just remember to find a provider with an ANCC-accredited program. The courses must also be vetted. Then, you can renew your license or choose another service. During this time, you should keep records of all your CE hours. If you’re unsure about whether you’ve completed the CE requirements, you can always contact the nursing association and ask about the specific requirements.