Nurse Administrator Certifications
- Nurse Executive Certification (NE-BC)
- Nurse Executive, Advanced Certification (NEA-BC)
- Informatics Nursing Certification (RN-BC)
- Certified in Executive Nursing Practice (CENP)
- Certified Nurse Manager and Leader (CNML)
In addition to earning a degree, nurse administrators can also obtain several certifications to enhance their resume and make them more marketable on the job market. Nurse administrator certifications require training that prepares them for upper-management positions in the healthcare industry. Nurse administrators, also referred to as medical and health service managers, are highly trained professionals who have the responsibility of making sure hospitals and similar healthcare facilities run smoothly and in an efficient, cost-effective and safe manner. Nurse administrators not only manger human and financial resources but also oversee the work of the nursing staff and other medical personnel. Here are 5 certifications possible for nurse administrators.
Related resource: Top 20 Online Master’s Degrees in Nursing Administration and Leadership
1. Nurse Executive Certification (NE-BC)
Offered through the American Nurses Credentialing Center, the Nurse Executive Certification tests the skills and knowledge of an RN working in a management position on a daily basis. It also tests the candidate’s ability to efficiently manage an entire unit. The exam consists of 175 questions and must be completed in 3.5 hours. Applicants must have a valid nursing license, at least a bachelor’s degree in nursing and have at least two years of work experience in an upper-level nursing capacity, including teaching or nursing manager. At least 30 hours of continuing education within the previous three years must be completed to maintain certification.
2. Nurse Executive, Advanced Certification (NEA-BC)
Also offered through the ANNC, the Nurse Executive Advanced Certification is an exam for nursing administrators who already have the Nurse Executive Certification. Applicants must have at least a master’s degree, a valid RN license, at least two years of experience working as a nursing administrator in the previous five years, and 30 hours of continuing education unless the candidate has a master’s degree in nursing administration. This 175-question test must also be completed in 3.5 hours.
3. Informatics Nursing Certification (RN-BC)
Healthcare informatics, which is the integration of information technology with healthcare, is very important in the healthcare industry, and nursing informatics specialists play an important role in a healthcare facility. The Informatics Nursing Certification, which is obtained through the ANNC, is a 175-question computerized test that determines the knowledge and skills a nursing administrator has in nursing informatics. To be eligible, the candidate must have a valid registered nursing license, at least a bachelor’s degree in nursing, and at least two years of experience working as an RN. Certification can be maintained by completing 30 hours of continuing education within the previous three years.
4. Certified in Executive Nursing Practice (CENP)
Offered by the American Organization of Nurse Executives (AONE), the Certified in Executive Nursing Practice credential is available to the nursing executive who has a valid nursing license as a registered nurse and at least two years’ experience as a nurse leader if he or she has a master’s degree or four years’ experience if it’s a bachelor’s degree. The test, which is a 175 multiple-choice test, covers the following areas: professionalism and business skills; communication and relationship building; environment; knowledge of the health care environment, and leadership. Certification can be maintained by completing 45 hours of continuing education in this area of study.
5. Certified Nurse Manager and Leader (CNML)
Also offered by the AONE, the Certified Nurse Manager and Leader credential is available to a nurse administrator who has a license to work as a registered nurse and has completed the designated number of hours of experience working as a nursing manager. The number of hours required depends on the degree level the nurse has earned. This 115-question exam focuses on four areas: human resource management, strategic management and technology, financial management, and performance improvement. This certification exam is offered in all 50 states at designated testing sites. Certification must be maintained by completing 45 hours of continuing education.
Nurse administrators are an important part of any hospital or healthcare facility. The success of a healthcare facility, and its nursing staff, is often the result of the hard work and knowledge of the nursing administrator. Earning as many certifications for nurse administrators as possible can make the nurse administrator and asset to the company.