Passed the CEN exam today!

Published

Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.

I realize 2 years of RN experience is recommended before taking the CEN exam, but I just couldn't wait any longer! :D I've been a paramedic since 2003, and I've been working in the ED since 2005, but less than one year as an RN (my "anniversary" is in July). I took the CEN today and passed, by a comfortable margin, too. Woo hoooo! I'm so happy!!

Specializes in ER.
I realize 2 years of RN experience is recommended before taking the CEN exam, but I just couldn't wait any longer! :D I've been a paramedic since 2003, and I've been working in the ED since 2005, but less than one year as an RN (my "anniversary" is in July). I took the CEN today and passed, by a comfortable margin, too. Woo hoooo! I'm so happy!!

:yeah: so how was it? That's on my list to do (within a year). Congratulations!!!!! Does your facility pay you more for that cert?

Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.

I get a "bolus of cash." :D It was about what I expected -- I took the ENA practice exam (the 150-question one), and the flavor was similar. I actually did a little better on the real thing! :)

Specializes in Emergency Dept, M/S.

Congratulations!!

That is on my list within the next year or two.

Specializes in ER.

that's great you are compensated. That is not done where I work - for any certification, not even having your BSN. That is important - and an important consideration when I move to my next job.

Specializes in ER.

Congrats Lunah! My boss is already trying to get me to take the CEN! I told her to please let me focus on the CPNE first!!

Specializes in icu/er ccrn.

good deal...i have sort of been studying prn on the side..what material did you use as your main study material.

Specializes in LTC, Acute Care.

As if there was any doubt.

Congrats, Lunah!

Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.
good deal...i have sort of been studying prn on the side..what material did you use as your main study material.

I had a bunch of stuff ... borrowed some MedEd audio CDs from a coworker -- there are 14 CDs in the set, very comprehensive. I also listened to the Laura Gasparis Vonfrolio CDs (imagine CEN review taught by Fran Drescher of "The Nanny" ... seriously, that's what she sounds like, and she is HILARIOUS). I also did a lot of sample questions from the Lippincott Q&A book, too. Plus I just did an ER fellowship in October-December of this past year, and we did a lot of ENA-developed online learning modules and readings from the Sheehy book, so that was a very solid foundation.

Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.
that's great you are compensated. That is not done where I work - for any certification, not even having your BSN. That is important - and an important consideration when I move to my next job.

I don't think I'll get anything for completing my BSN (I'm working on it), but it's more just for me than anything right now. :) I thought it would be somewhat silly to have three Associates degrees (AKA my "Masters in Indecision"), and no Bachelors degree of any kind. LOL

Specializes in ED, Flight.
Specializes in Emergency.

Congrats!!

Like c-diff phil, I've been kinda studying. How much time did you actually put into studying before taking the exam?

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