CPI certification needed / new grad

[MiamiPsychNurse]

I am a recent nursing graduate applying for psychiatric nursing jobs. Many recruiters have told me my application will not be considered with out CPI certification. So many of these classes are offered through your employer; however since I am unemployed and need this class to be considered for a job I seem to be in an impossible spot. I was able to find one class offered for $600. Is this reasonable? Could any one offer any advice as to how better economically attack this issue. Thanks!!!

[xenogenetic]

I'm not sure how Florida works (noticing your screen name I just assume you are located in Florida), but it's really unusual for a psych employer to require you be already certified in the behavior modification technique that they choose to implement. There are so many of them (TCI, CPI, CSS, BMS, etc.) that it would be unrealistic to expect applicants to possess them all. Usually they will hire you and then send you to the training during the first few weeks of orientation while on the job.

[linsmirn]

Hey Im also from florida and most places that are looking for experienced psych nurses want you to already have your CPI. Which is silly because once they hire you they have you take a CPI course. Where Im about to start working in Nov my employer is paying for it. But since you are a new grad like me they shouldnt expect you to already have it.

[Whispera, MSN, RN]

Is it a requirement or a suggested thing? Truly, facilities have specific programs they use for crisis intervention and CPI might not be the one they favor. Could you find out who the nurse manager is and talk to him or her directly about it (as well as talk about your passionate desire to work in the facility)? I'm all for jumping past HR whenever possible so you don't end up in the pile of applications....

[bobygirl]

$600 for a CPI class is very expensive for someone who is looking for a job!

[Wabi Sabi, BSN, RN]

That's odd that they would require you to have it before getting a job. I got mine after I accepted a job and it was paid for by the employer.

[aloevera]

yes, that is very odd indeed.......My employer offers the course yearly with no charge to us........it is required, but I did not have it when I first got my job.

Must be different from state to state..........that $80 online course sounds like the way to go !!

Good Luck..........you will love psych nursing !!

[Whispera, MSN, RN]

I don't think an online course would give you what you need most...the actual practice doing things you might need to do!

[IdrilRN, BSN, RN]

Wow, that sounds unusual! I interviewed for a job on Monday that uses CPI. I have Nappi and Pro Act from two different places I worked which were 20 min apart. Each place likes their own thing I guess.

[RMartin MSN RN BC]

I am a Nurse in Utah Trying to get a travel Psych Nurse Job in California but to even be considered they require a CPI Certification. I contacted CPI and they are teaching and certifying here in Utah for 1500.00 to 4000.00 talk about high way robbery. I took a CPI Course with one of my jobs but it has since expired how does a none employee get certified cheaper than that, so I can work Psych in California. CPI seems like they are monopolizing Psych nursing and can charge out of line prices to people who do not get certified through a hospital or care system. Any Ideas for getting certified cheaper than 1500.00-4000.00 in Utah

[Orca, ADN, ASN, RN]

Every psychiatric employer I have ever worked for has trained me in their chosen method of behavior management after employment. I have never been expected to already have the training at the time of hire.

[tanyaayiyi55]

Where can I find a CPI CLASS for less than $1000.00.I live in Phoenix Az. Anyone know?

Curious Tanya