Tell me about continuing education credits

[JeanettePNP]

I'm a new grad and we were never told anything about CE's during school. So please help me out here...

What, exactly, are continuing education credits used for? Are they a requirement for your job? For renewing your license? How do you know how many CE credits you need, and in what topics? Is there some central database where you keep track of all your CE's? Or do you just file away all your CE certificates? When and where are you asked to show them? Do you put CE's on a resume? How would you list them?

[fuschiared]

I am renewing my license for the first time, i believe first time renewal dont need CE. I am included in the exemption since i passed my nclex in 2007. I just got my license in 2011 when i got here.

[OCNRN63, RN]

If you become certified in a specialty, there may be CE requirements to maintain your certification so you don't have to retake the certification exam.

[nurseprnRN, BSN, RN]

In my fair Commonwealth, when I renew my RN license I have to sign a statement saying 1) I have paid all my taxes, and 2) I have taken my required continuing education (first things first, huh?). They audit some percentage but I need far, far more than that to recertify my various credentials.

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

continuing education is required by my state - 20 hours every 2 years and should be related to your area of practice. Another option is to maintain board certification (such as certified critical care nurse, or certified neonatal nurse). ALthough we do not have to "show" our CE obtained each two years, we do have to sign an affidavit stating we have done it. If we are audited and they learn we lied, then that is fraud and your license is in jeopardy. Who would not want to learn what is current practice? For one thing, there might liability due to ignorance.