How to Get RNC-LRN Nurse Certification
Did you know that approximately 10% of newborns require help to begin breathing at birth? The Low-Risk Neonatal Intensive Care Nursing (RNC-LRN) certification is a professional credential for nurses specializing in providing care to low-risk newborns — those who aren’t critically ill but may require monitoring for conditions like mild jaundice or feeding challenges. As an LRN nurse, you’ll be uniquely equipped to provide this vital care, ensuring these little ones get the best start in life.
With over 3.6 million babies born in the U.S. each year, you can find great use for this certification. In this guide, we’ll explain what the certification is, outline the steps to get it, and highlight the benefits of having it.
LRN Nurse Certification: Snapshot
- Eligibility: You’ll need a current RN license, 2 years of specialty experience (2,000 hours), and proof of employment in the specialty within the past 2 years.
- Preparation: Review the candidate guide, study the topics listed in the test outline, use practice tests, and consider investing in a recent reference text.
- Application process: Set up an online account, submit your application for the chosen certification type, and wait for the eligibility letter.
- Exam: Your exam will have 175 questions, and you’ll have 3 hours to answer them.
- Cost: The exam fee is $325.
- Renewal: You’ll need to renew every 3 years.
What Is RNC-LRN Certification?
RNC-LRN stands for Registered Nurse Certification in Low-Risk Neonatal Nursing. It is a professional credential for neonatal nurses who specialize in caring for low-risk newborns. It’s awarded to experienced nurses who meet certain eligibility requirements and pass an exam from the National Certification Corporation (NCC).
What exactly will you be tested on? The exam outline includes four main knowledge areas, each focusing on specific topics related to the specialty:
- General assessment includes topics like maternal risk factors and gestational age assessment.
- Assessment and management of pathophysiologic states covers topics like gastrointestinal and neurologic system disorders.
- General management consists of topics like pharmacodynamics, acid-base balance, and infection control.
- Professional issues include topics like legal considerations and ethical principles.
LRN Nurse Certification Requirements
So, how can you add these prestigious letters to your name? Let’s dive into the key steps you need to take to get certified.
1. Meet Eligibility Requirements
Your first step is to meet the eligibility requirements to sit for the exam. Before you apply, ensure you complete the following tasks on your checklist:
- Have an active, current, and unencumbered RN license in the U.S. or Canada.
- Accumulate 24 months of specialty experience with at least 2,000 total hours. This can include direct patient care, education, administrative work, or research.
- Provide proof of employment in the specialty within the past 24 months.
2. Prepare for the Exam
Your next step is to hit the books. Here are some important NCC-recommended resources to help you prepare for the exam:
- RNC-LRN study guide
- NCC guide to testing methods
- Registration catalog
- RNC-LRN practice questions
- Recent reference texts
To make your preparation more effective, it’s helpful to set SMART goals — goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and timely. This can help you stay focused and track your progress as you prepare for the exam.
3. Submit Your Application
Next, set up an online NCC account and submit your application for the certification. You’ll need to upload proof of your license, education, and experience. Once approved, you’ll get an email with instructions to schedule your exam. You’ll have 30 days to pick a date within a 90-day window.
4. Pay the Exam Fee
Planning your budget for the certification process is essential so you can prepare for the exam without added financial stress. Here are a few key costs to consider:
- Exam: $325
- Practice test: $35
- Reference materials: Up to $100, depending on the textbook chosen
5. Pass the RNC-LRN Exam
What can you expect on test day? Here’s a snapshot of your exam experience:
- You’ll take the test either at a PSI testing center or from home with live remote proctoring.
- You’ll have to answer 175 multiple-choice items (150 are scored and 25 are unscored).
- You’ll have 3 hours to complete the exam.
- There’s no fixed passing score — your result will simply say pass or fail.
6. Maintain the Certification
Wondering what it takes to maintain your certification? You’ll need to renew it every three years, and here’s how you can do it:
| Option 1 | Option 2 |
|---|---|
To renew your certification through continuing competence assessment:
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To renew your certification through an alternate maintenance option:
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Frequently Asked Questions: LRN Nurse Certification
Is the RNC-LRN exam difficult?
The exam’s difficulty level is subjective, but the pass rate of 79% shows that many nurses successfully earn this credential. Focusing on the key exam topics and practicing with study materials will help improve your chances.
What do I do if I fail the exam?
You can retake the test, with a limit of two attempts each year. Just keep in mind that after each try, you’ll need to wait 90 days before applying again. Use that time to review the topics in the content outline to boost your chances of success.
How do I verify my NCC credential?
To send verification directly to your employer’s email, simply complete the online verification form on the NCC website. Alternatively, your employer can check your certification status independently by filling in the online request.
Are NCC certifications recognized nationally or internationally?
Licensed registered nurses in the U.S. and Canada are eligible for NCC certifications. If you’re considering international travel nursing or looking for work opportunities in Canada, this certification can be useful.
What are the benefits of LRN nurse certification?
This RNC-LRN nurse certification offers several benefits for nurses specializing in neonatal care:
- Higher pay: Many healthcare employers offer higher salaries to certified nurses due to their specialized skills.
- Improved patient care: The certification helps nurses stay up to date with best practices and standards of care in low-risk neonatal nursing.
- Promotion opportunities: It can open doors to new job opportunities, promotions, or leadership roles in your facility, such as becoming a nurse supervisor.
- Enhanced professional credibility: The certification provides validation of your skills and knowledge, distinguishing you as an expert in your field.
Related Certifications
Want to explore more credentials? Here are some additional certifications you might find interesting:
- Registered Nurse Certification in Inpatient Obstetric Nursing (RNC-OB)
- Registered Nurse Certification in Neonatal Intensive Care (RNC-NIC)
- Registered Nurse Certification in Maternal Newborn Nursing (RNC-MNN)
- Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP)
- Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB)
- Pediatric Emergency Assessment, Recognition, and Stabilization (PEARS)
- Emergency Nursing Pediatric Course (ENPC)
- S.T.A.B.L.E. certification
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