RNC exam?

EricJRN, MSN, RN · Jun 23, 2006

I haven't taken it because I'm a NICU rookie, but here's a link to get you started.

http://www.nccnet.org/public/pages/index.cfm?pageid=111

prmenrs, RN · Jun 23, 2006

I've taken it. I got my RNC, but then let it lapse. It wasn't too terrible. They tell you what % of questions will be in which areas: development, pathophysiology, drugs, research (as in how to do it) and so forth.

If you take Merenstein (or another basic book) and a highlighter or 2, and start in on it, a chunk each day, you ought to do very well.

You can't take it til you've completed 2 years, and your supervisor has to fill out a form verifying your employment. It costs to even send in the application, and if you haven't had enough experience, they will keep the application fee, and send your papers back to you.

A lot of hospitals pay more for certification, so it's worth it.

Bailarina · Jun 23, 2006

Thanks for the info! i have 3 years experience and my hospital will reimburse for the exam plus give a TINY bit more pay hourly so I figured it's worth it. I want to take my time studying for it the rest of this year and hopefully take it next year. Thanks so much for the website and great information about the exam.:wink2:

LaNICUnurse · Jun 24, 2006

I took it at 3 years and didn't pass. I didn't study enough.

I took it again last year after 13 years of NICU, and studied, and passed. I didn't think it was so hard this time. However, I do think the extra NICU experience helps alot. This time, my hospital had a week class to help study.

Study is the key.

Good luck.

tommy'smom · Jun 24, 2006

I took the exam last year and passed. The best book I found was Core Review for Neonatal Nursing (not sure of the author). Get the compainion book with extra questions (they are a very good prep) The exam was not too bad just study hard and you will do fine.

slu_rn · Jun 24, 2006

Where I work, the exam is offered once a year on site. It gives the nurses an opportunity to study together etc. I haven't taken it yet because I"m still too new, but this system seems to work out well for us. :)