Ready to tackle those nursing CE requirements? Whether you’re on your first renewal or your fifth, here’s what you need to make sure your CE game is strong and that license is up to date.
Know your state’s nursing CE requirements
Before you power through 50 hours of CE and 3 existential crises, make sure it actually counts where you’re licensed.
“I did 30 hours of CE I didn’t need” = a real nurse horror story.
✔ Tip: Look up your BON (Board of Nursing) requirements. Yes, we know—BORED of Nursing.
Take your nursing CE requirements from an approved provider
Your cousin’s YouTube video on wound care? Probably not BON-approved.
“Accredited” is your CE love language.
✔ Tip: Elite Learning is an ANCC-accredited CE provider, has courses written by nurses, and is quick and easy! (Plus, we’ll upload your certificate in 24 hours)
Double check the topic requirements
Many states require specific CE courses, including on topics like:
- 🧠 Mental health/suicide prevention
- 💉 Opioid/pain management
- 🧬 Human trafficking
- 📃 Laws & rules/ethics
Basically, the stuff they don’t cover on Grey’s Anatomy.
✔ Tip: One-size-fits-all courses are rare. Be picky.
Keep records like a nurse with a clipboard
Hold onto your nursing CE certificates for at least 4 years (check your state!).
If it’s not documented, it didn’t happen. Sound familiar?
✔ Tip: Save PDF copies or use a CE tracker app — sticky notes don’t count.
CE deadline = Realer than your patient’s Code Brown
Mark your renewal date in your calendar, tattoo it on your arm, whatever works.
“I thought it was next month” never ends well.
✔ Tip: Set a reminder a few months before your renewal.
Make your nursing CE count for YOUR career goals
Don’t just take any CE course. Pick the topics that help you grow.
Yes, CE can actually be interesting. No, really.
✔ Tip: Want to switch specialties? Use CE to test the waters.
Take breaks. Hydrate. CE responsibly.
You can’t pour from an empty cup, but you can take a CE course with a full one ☕
“Self-care” counts, even if it’s just doing CE in fuzzy socks.
💡 Pro tip: Don’t wait ‘til the last minute. That’s what 12-hour shifts are for.
