Certification
Certifications, whether required for licensure and employment or not, add value to an RN's role and resume.
They signify the commitment to lifelong learning and the delivery of quality, specialized nursing care.
Why Get Certified?
Earning certification in a specific care area is usually required for licensure as a Registered Nurse and/or APRN. These are typically in the form of board certifications, and usually have the abbreviation "BC" in the title (for example, a board-certified family nurse practitioner is an FNP-BC).
Some specialties don't require certifications, although having one demonstrates that the nurse or APRN has received further education in the care of specific patient populations and is considered an "expert" in the field.
Also, while not always required for licensure, some employers require specific certification depending on their role. Many nurses find that having certification in their specialty of choice only enhances employment opportunities, whether it is a hard requirement or not.
Certification Requirements
Each certification will have its own specific certification requirements, so it's important for nurses to thoroughly research their area of expertise to ensure that they meet the conditions for certification.
An RN degree (sometimes an advanced degree, like an MSN), an unencumbered RN license, a minimum number of direct-care hours in the specialty, and a certification test are usually all required for a nurse to become certified in an area of care.
Nurses should also keep in mind that certification renewals will be required to keep them up-to-date; a certification is usually good for a few years until re-certification is necessary, and may require some continuing education credits and/or clinical practice hours.
FNCB may delay certification conferral if an applicant has an open complaint or investigation. If misconduct is determined, the applicant may be denied certification and currently certified individuals may have their certification suspended and/or revoked. Further, FNCB may report suspension or revocation of certification to employers, legal authorities, state boards, third party payers, and other third parties.
Download the FNCB Certification Handbook (PDF)
Supplemental Applications
Here are the supplemental application forms to download
Recertification
FNCB certification renewal supports professional development since engagement in continuing education and forensic nursing practice are requirements for certification renewal. FNCB certification as a Generalist Forensic Nurse Certified (GFN-C™) or Advanced Forensic
Nurse Certified (AFN-C™) is valid for a period of three years from the date of credential conferral.
Certification Renewal Eligibility Requirements
Renewal applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
1. Hold a current, active, unencumbered RN license in a state or territory of the U.S. or the professional, legally recognized equivalent of the RN license in another country.
2. Be currently certified by FNCB with the credential in which certification renewal is being sought.
3. Meet the renewal requirements for the certification for which applicant is seeking renewal.
4. Submit renewal application with applicable fee.
Please download the Recertification Manual for more information.