Nurses Need CEUs
Nursing is a constantly changing field, and continuing education is an important part of staying current in the field. Nurses are required by law in most states to complete continuing education. Completing CEUs allows nurses to stay current with the latest information in the healthcare industry and further their careers. Some states even mandate CEUs as a condition for renewal of nursing licenses.
CEUs can be earned in a variety of ways. They can include attending continuing education courses or professional conferences that are approved by the state. Nurses may also take online courses, participate in webinars, or attend clinical workshops. Common areas of continuing education include nursing laws and ethics, clinical topics, conflict management, and pharmacology. Many healthcare organizations offer CEU courses for free or at very low fees. CEUs may also be tax deductible.
CEUs also boost nurses’ reputation. Since nurses spend most of their time interacting with patients, taking continuing education courses establishes them as an authority in their field. Whether you’re looking to advance your career or get a better pay scale, CEUs are an excellent investment. These credits can also help you to determine what Nursing CEUs field suits you best. When looking for a continuing education course, ask the instructor if the course offers CEUs.
Some states require nurses to take certain nursing courses as a condition for licensure renewal. Other states allow nurses to choose their own topics. For example, in New York, nurses must complete courses on infection control, pain management, and child abuse. In Michigan, nurses must complete at least one hour of pain management education every year. These courses may be offered for free or are tax deductible.
Why Nurses Need CEUs
Continuing education units, or CEUs, are based on the education and training nurses receive throughout their careers. Many nurses pursue continued education in order to advance their careers and obtain specializations or certifications. Others pursue these courses as a means to maintain their licenses. Each CEU typically takes about ten hours to complete. Most of these hours can be completed in a classroom or through approved activities.
The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) sets standards for continuing education courses that are acceptable for licensure. These courses are approved by all state nursing boards. Taking ANCC-approved courses increases nurses’ earning potential and ensures they stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the nursing field.
While many nurses may be familiar with the requirements for continuing education, they might not be aware that they are required to complete them in order to renew their license. To fulfill this requirement, RNs must take an approved continuing education course every four years. During their renewal period, the RNs must complete an approved course and keep the grade slips and certificates for four years.
Another way continuing education for nurses can advance a nurse’s career is to inspire them to become nurse educators. While most nursing schools require a PhD or MSN, nurses with a BSN may still find work as a nurse educator for LPN/LVN, nurses aide, or home health nursing programs.