RN student looking for info on DDNA

[loveDDRN]

hello everyone! i was wondering if anyone knew anything about getting a cddn certification. i am currently an rn student living in ny state planning to graduate in may 2011. i have worked with individuals with disabilities for almost 10 years and love it.i really want to specialize in this field and am having a difficult time navigating my way through it ~so any information is surely welcomed! i read on the ddna website that you must have 4,000 hours of experience as an rn working with this population of individuals before sitting for the exam. after i graduate would it be best for me to start working right away with an agency that is specific to helping people with disabilities and working my way up to getting the certification or is it better to get the 'hospital experience' first? my ultimate goal is to become a np and work specifically with this population. it seems wise to obtain cddn certification... or am i being mislead? is it difficult to get hired within these agencies as a *new* rn? thank you to any information provided! it is greatly appreciated.

[bcems134]

Not yet a student, and apparantly I have alot to learn because I don't even know what DDNA is.

Developmently Disabled Nurse Assistant?

Director of the Department Nurses of Aide?

I don't know, help me out here...

[loveDDRN]

Im sorry I mistyped. DDNA is the developmental disabilities nursing association.

Certification in Developmental Disabilities Nursing (CDDN) is the certification im referring too "To be certified means that you are competent in your chosen field and have a recognized level of achievement. You understand and comply with the standards of your professional organization, live by those standards professionally, and set an example of excellence. Certification attests to your knowledge in your chosen specialty area of nursing practice. Certification provides a way to demonstrate your experience, competence, and proficiency beyond that required for nursing licensure. As a nurse practicing in the field of developmental disabilities, certification also documents that you possess special knowledge and gives you access to expanded career opportunities and advancement. As a certified nurse, you also benefit the profession of nursing, the specialty of developmental disabilities, and the people for whom you care." (off the DDNA website)

However, I have worked for numerous companies in NY who do not require this certification. I just wanted to know more about it because it sounds like a great thing to have (especially if you are interested in going into this field)

thanks for responding:)

[CBsMommy]

I think if working with the developmentally disabled is where you want to be, I would suggest foregoing the hospital experience and just start with one of those agencies and work your way toward that certification. Even if it's not required, it's a good thing to have and will stand out on your resume. Good luck and what an AWESOME path to choose!