CMSRN or RN-BC

I have already chosen to take the CMSRN. It just makes more sense to me, especially paying the membership fee to get free CE's and a cheaper test price. I don't think employers care one way or the other (mine doesn't, a Level 1 Magnet trauma/teaching hospital). I have found that a lot of people don't know what the RN-BC stands for...definitely not our patients. One of my co-workers said she only chose the RN-BC because its offered by the ANCC and she's a brand w%@*e. Nope, I'd rather go with the extra benefits and save my hard-earned money and chose the certification that is just as respected as the other but offers me more! I'm planning to take the CMSRN in August...cross your fingers!!!

I have two certifications, one CMSRN and BC-NE. Both organizations have membership plans that offer free CEUs and I do belong to both and to support my CMSRN the AMSN organization offers many more options. Magnet accepts both equally although RN-BC or in my case BC-NE comes from the same organization as the certifying Magnet Program = ANCC. Just a word......both tests are equally difficult, they don't give certifications away. You earn them!!!! Good Luck to you.

We have both certs on our floor. Our job offered a study program for either test and they said it was up to us what we wanted to do. Both are Magnet approved..blah blah..

I chose CMSRN because I get more and it's a heck of a lot cheaper to join!

ya, i noticed that the rn-bc is through the ancc which i THOUGHT was a big deal! i really loveee med surg and i want to get certified, i'm trying to make up my mind too. i've taken a practice test which just seemed like stuff i know from work or school.

I have never seen a difference in either certification. My badge says RN-C, not even CMSRN.

The test is fairly involved. Some questions super easy and others make you scratch your head.

what resources do you guys recommend to read for CMSRN test?

I have the same question.Is there anybody who can help me with CMSRN reference book or website practice test? i want to study and get prepared.

Thank you

I have the same question.Is there anybody who can help me with CMSRN reference book or website practice test? i want to study and get prepared.

Thank you

The Medical Surgical Nursing Certification Board website and the Academy of Medical Surgical Nurses have great resources and suggestions.

On ‎11‎/‎24‎/‎2014 at 10:36 PM, Libo said:

what resources do you guys recommend to read for CMSRN test?

@Libo I just took the CMSRN test last month (02/2019) and I used the Lippinocot Cert Review text. Search Amazon for the ISBN: 978-1496387332. There are lots of used copies for sale on there. It's a great review book that is broken down into sections based on body system and has lots of bullet points. I basically did the review questions at the end of every section and went back and read more about the stuff I wasn't too clear on. At the end of the book there is a full length practice exam (150 Q's).

I also used the PocketPrep app on iphone for some more practice questions. I passed the exam on my first try. Good luck!