Do I have to tell anyone I’m taking the test?
We encourage you to discuss national certification with your nursing leadership, so that they can encourage and support you! However, you do not have to tell anyone you’re taking the test, unless you want to receive reimbursement prior to taking the test, in which your manager and the Center for Nursing Excellence will know your test date (required on the form).
Can I have more than one certification?
Yes! We encourage you to obtain the national certifications that make the most sense given your leadership level and specialty. However, UAMS only reimburses the examination fee of 1 exam.
What if I don’t pass?
It can be very discouraging not to pass the national certification exam the first time. However, many knowledgeable, experienced nurses have been faced with not passing the first time, and most nurses pass the second time they sit for the exam. At the end of the day, sometimes it’s how well you take a test. Check out some resources for test-taking strategies here.
What is the general process for getting reimbursed for the exam fee?
- Choose a certification applicable to your specialty/role
- Visit the website of the accredited body that offers the certification
- Apply for the certification
- Complete Certification Reimbursement Form
- Send to CNE
- Receive reimbursement in approximately 4 weeks
How do I study?
Give yourself 12 weeks to prepare for the exam. Some certifications have online review courses you can participate. Other nurses prefer to self-study. There are Certification Review Guides and Q/A review books. See your nursing leadership for study materials and ideas.
What do I do after I pass?
Congratulations! You passed your national certification! Email your official notification of certification (has issue and expiration date on it) to your nursing leadership and CenterforNursingExcellence@uams.edu. This can be a screen shot, picture, or pdf. Your manager will complete the process for your pay increase and the CNE will have a special gift and new Nationally Certified RN hang tag for you.