What Are Nursing CEUs?
Nursing CEUs
CEUs, or continuing education units, are credits that nurses can use to update their knowledge and skills. Some CEUs are free, while others are part of a subscription or paid-per-course platform. Regardless of the source, CEUs must be approved by a recognized organization and are often state-approved. Some healthcare organizations offer CEUs for free for their employees, and nurses may be eligible for tax deductions on these courses.
Nurses must continually update their licenses, including specialty licenses, in order to stay in good standing. This is where CEUs can come in handy. These hours can also be used to network with other RNs and acquire new skills. While completing Free CEUs for Nurses is important, nurses should choose their topics carefully. Some of the most worthwhile courses will include evidence-based guidelines and topics that will help them practice better and make more money.
Continuing education requirements for nurses are set by state boards of nursing. RNs must satisfy the CEU requirements of their respective states in order to maintain their licenses. This is because nursing is an ever-changing field and nurses need to keep their knowledge up to date. Most states require nurses to complete nursing CEU requirements every two years. Those with BSNs and above are expected to meet these requirements. However, CEU courses are not always free. You may be able to find low-cost or free courses to fulfill the requirements of your state.
What Are Nursing CEUs?
Nurses who wish to renew their licenses must complete at least 20 hours of continuing education in their field every two years. If they fail to do so, they must obtain Board-approved national nursing certification. Continuing education requirements vary by state, with some states requiring a minimum of 50 hours per year, while others have no such requirement. A nurse must meet all three of these requirements to stay in good standing. These hours will count towards a minimum of 50 hours per renewal period.
The first licensing period for a nurse will vary, and can be as short as six months or as long as 29 months. During the first renewal, most CEU requirements are waived, but there are targeted requirements, such as those for forensic evidence collection. If you have a full-time job as a nurse, you may wish to take some nursing continuing education to keep your license in good standing. But make sure you are careful to follow your state’s requirements, or you may face the consequences.
Continuing education hours are mandatory for RNs and LPNs. They must complete at least 30 hours of approved continuing education every two years. LPNs can also obtain unlimited independent study hours. As long as the hours are approved, the CEUs are worth the cost of the education. So, what is the best way to obtain CEs for nurses? If you are looking to keep your license current, consider taking a course that teaches you about acute respiratory distress syndrome.