Want to take your registered nursing career a step further? Specialize in geriatric nursing and give back.
Many nurses seek certification in geriatric nursing for a variety of personal and professional reasons, from a personal desire to care for the elderly to the chance to work providing care in nursing homes.
Geriatric nurses care for older people in a variety of environments. The field is one that is likely to see a continued need for skilled professionals over time, especially with an aging baby boomer population. Nurses with family members or friends suffering from dementia may also seek the specialized knowledge of how to provide care for this condition.
Reply! can help you determine if you meet the requirements for a career in geriatrics and find geriatric nursing classes available in your area.
Geriatric nursing is a specialized field of registered nursing practice. This means that only those who have completed RN studies may begin the process of seeking certification. Certification is overseen by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and has very specific requirements. The requirements for geriatric nursing certification include:
- Current license to practice as an RN.
- Two years of licensed RN practice.
- 2,000 hours of work in gerontology in the last three years.
- 30 hours of continuing education in the last three years.
Learn geriatric nursing skills. Find local and online nursing classes now!
Many different options exist for those ready to seek certification in geriatric nursing. Traditional classroom options offer hands-on training that can help nurses learn exactly how to perform common duties and care for specific conditions in a safe and controlled environment. Online classes enable nurses to schedule training around their needs for added flexibility. Geriatric nursing training is available through:
- Local medical schools.
- Trade schools and some colleges.
- Online courses designed for test preparation.
- Combination schools that offer both online and in-person instruction.
While many schools may openly provide information on tuition and class prices, there are many other potential costs to consider when looking for training in this field. Some of these may not be immediately apparent. Costs above and beyond tuition may include the purchase of:
- Required books.
- Materials and components for lab work.
- Computer hardware able to use rendering programs.
- Specialized software for online courses.
- Future expenses, like exam fees.
A career in geriatric nursing can be a fulfilling way to make the most of your nursing license. The field is constantly evolving as new care techniques and technologies develop. Geriatric nurses are likely to be in demand for some time to come.
Certification ensures that your patients can feel safe and secure with the knowledge that you have proven your abilities on a professional level. It can also lead to the potential for advancement in your career as a nurse or provide options for further specialization within the field. In a hospital or other structured setting, certification may be an important factor in the determination of wages and financial reimbursement for services.
When you're ready to pursue your career in geriatric nursing, keeping this information in mind helps to prepare you for the road ahead.
Photo credit: jamelah. Second photo credit: Jason. Tabarias. Third photo credit: Through Painted Eyes. All photos via Compfight CC.