Published Jan 1, 2009
dsanto3
101 Posts
Hello,
I am an LPN just passed NCLEX in September and work at a facility that does not offer CE credits. I would like to earn credits by going on Medscape and taking tests and then printing out the certificates. I would like to know (I am in NJ) if I need 30 credits over 2 years and the test I am taking says it's valid until December of 2009, would I still be able to use it when I need it?
Thanks,
d
NRSKarenRN, BSN, RN
10 Articles; 18,930 Posts
) if I need 30 credits over 2 years and the test I am taking says it's valid until December of 2009, would I still be able to use it when I need it?
Yes!
"Test is valid until Dec 31st 2009" usually means one is able to take the test exam associated with the article up to the end of December 31,2009. Afterwards, article is valid for information purposes only. CE Certificate is good to count for CE activity in the year awarded.
EG Course certificate granted April 4, 2005 not applicable to 30 CE credits needed for licensure from April 1st 2007 to April 31st 2009.
Thank you very much. Will BON notify me when my hours are due or is it my responsibility to remember? Do I send them the certificates by mail? Not sure how this works.
Are there other places I can obtain hours? Thanks so much and Happy New Year!
Some states require that you post cources taken on a specifice website. PA/NJ requires that you keep a them personall in a floder ---randomly will notify members to submit certifiates to the board. Some boards in Canada now requiring a detailed portfolio.
My health system participates in Med Page Today . They keep track online of CE courses I've taken and I get montly list or can printout entires years CE for my file.... since they are mostly physician geared, also do nursing CE's too. Medscape nurses on of my favorite places along with ANA.
caliotter3
38,333 Posts
If you don't keep track of your certificates online, make certain you do keep copies of your certificates for the minimum time required. In my state you are to keep certificates for four years. I was audited one time and had to produce copies of my certificates in response to a letter from my board. You also should check with your board to find out if you are required to have CE for your first renewal. In my state, newly licensed persons do not need CE for their first renewal. Just something to be aware of, if it applies to you. :wink2: