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Discussion

CMSRN or CCRN? Both?

What I'd like to know is , is there any relative advantage to getting certification in Med-Surg nursing (CMSRN) or should I just go ahead and try for my CCRN, or better yet, get em' both? I'll have enough relevant experience come January to apply to take the CCRN boards, and I can sit for CMSRN right now, and I'd like to know if either would be helpful down the road.

If it makes a difference I work for the Federal Gov't and I've never seen where they've asked about professional certifications in relation to jobs offered. BSN's are becoming de rigeur in the private sector and I don't see that they confer much of an added advantage, pay or advancement wise. The cost/benefit ratio doesn't seem to be there, especially for older nurses.

I'm not planning on making a move in the near future but I like to act like I'm serious about this profession (I am, actually), just in case anyone's looking.

I plan on staying bedside. Crazy as I am, I like helping real live people get well.

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    I think there is some prestige to CCRN...I have no reason for thinking that way except its better known because it certifies multiple specialties. However, I prefer CMSRN because its specific to med-surg and I like its affiliation with the academy of medical-surgical nurses. I don't know if there is any practical advantage on the job, but I personally plan to be certified for my own personal needs for professional development. I also don't think its wise to do both- they are considered equivalent to each other.

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    I don't know if I would consider them equivalent but you should definitely do the certification appropriate to your unit. If you are a Med surg nurse and you get your CCRN although you may learn the critical acute diagnosis and treatment it doesn't help as the patient will be transferred to critical care if necessary. On the other hand med surg certification will pertain to your practice. I'm not sure ICU is considered med/surg either. I know I am unable to function well on a medsurg floor as a ICU nurse.

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    I don't know if I would consider them equivalent but you should definitely do the certification appropriate to your unit. If you are a Med surg nurse and you get your CCRN although you may learn the critical acute diagnosis and treatment it doesn't help as the patient will be transferred to critical care if necessary. On the other hand med surg certification will pertain to your practice. I'm not sure ICU is considered med/surg either. I know I am unable to function well on a medsurg floor as a ICU nurse.

    Ooops! My bad. I am only realizing this was about CCRN Vs CMSRN. I was thinking ANCC-not CCRN- which certifies multiple specialties including med-surg. I am considering med-surg certification as soon as I complete my masters, and I am debating between ANCC, CMSRN or the Canadian CAMSN. So the topic as I (mis)read it resonated and I found myself responding.Sorry about that- shouldn't be posting in the tired state I was in, lol.

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    From what I understand, CCRN tests include vents and pressors. CMSRN test does not. I would get the certification that is most relevant to your current position. If you are in a telemetry or step down unit, PCCN is also an option.

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    Any certification helps with the federal government. I'm an RN working for the federal government currently. It helps to have on your resume to get selected for interviews as well as it's on of the markers that can help towards annual bonuses.

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