BSN or certification in case management first?

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I recently started work with Evercare as a service coordinator and I am looking ahead to what is available for RN positions once I have more experience. We have clinical review nurses, UM nurses, concurrent review nurses, and nurses more involved with case management. I'm not quite sure yet what area interests me but I'd like to prepare myself in the meantime.. case management looks interesting.

I have an ADN and working towards my BSN , with my previous college credits, would take about 18 months.

But I'm wondering..at this point would it make more sense to pursue and finish my BSN or to become certified as a case manager?

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Specializes in multispecialty ICU, SICU including CV.

I don't know why you couldn't do both concurrently. Doing a BSN program is a fairly long time investment (like you said, 18 months) and usually nursing certifications just require that you know the content and can pass the exam. I have CCRN certification and have had other certifications in the past, and I would equate that (as far as level of work) as about the same as studying for a final exam. It's work, but it's not that much work. Perhaps you could do your certification over a summer or a school break (December) or doing a slow semester.

If I were you, that's how I would do it, but how much you want to work/study is up to you. Best of luck!

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Specializes in PICU, NICU, L&D, Public Health, Hospice.

Agree with Missbecky...the two are not mutually exclusive...

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Specializes in med/surg, TELE,CM, clinica[ documentation.

I think you would be wise to do both. I am an ADN with a diploma and a BS in another field. I work as a CM and am looking for a BSN program to start this fall. I also will take CM certification test once I have worked the required hours.

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Thank you...I work full time and have a toddler so time management will come into play..thanks for the responses.

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Specializes in COS-C, Risk Management.

Keep in mind that you have to obtain the required number of practice hours as an active case manager before you can apply for certification. In my opinion, BSN is your best first step and certs come after that.

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good to know..thank you..

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