RNC-MNN Certification: Overview and FAQ
The Registered Nurse Certification in Maternal Newborn Nursing (RNC-MNN) is a specialized credential for nurses working with mothers and their babies during the first six weeks after birth — a critical time that requires expertise in newborn care, postpartum recovery, and breastfeeding support. Earning this certification is a testament of your advanced knowledge and commitment to excellence in caring for new families. Plus, it can open up exciting career paths.
Curious about how to earn MNN certification? Reading this article is the first step on your journey. It covers what this credential is, explains the steps to earn it, and highlights the benefits of having it.
RNC-MNN Certification: Snapshot
- Eligibility: You’ll need a current RN license, at least 2 years of specialty experience (with a minimum of 2,000 hours), and proof of employment in the specialty within the past 2 years.
- Preparation: Make use of the study guide, test outline, current reference materials, and practice tests.
- Application process: Set up an account on the NCC website, complete the required fields, submit your documents, and wait for your eligibility letter.
- Exam: The test lasts 3 hours and contains 175 multiple-choice questions (150 scored and 25 unscored).
- Cost: The fee for the exam is $325.
- Renewal: You’ll need to renew it every 3 years.
What Is MNN Certification?
RNC-MNN is a credential that highlights your expertise in supporting new mothers and their newborns during six weeks after birth in both inpatient and outpatient settings. It’s issued by the National Certification Corporation (NCC), an organization that provides national certification programs for healthcare professionals.
Wondering what the exam will cover? It will evaluate your expertise in five key content areas, each featuring various specialty-specific topics:
| Knowledge area: | Examples of topics: |
|---|---|
| Pregnancy, birth risk factors and complications |
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| Maternal postpartum assessment, management, and education |
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| Newborn assessment and management |
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| Maternal postpartum complications |
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| Newborn complications |
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Steps to Get a MNN RNC Certification
So, how can you earn this prestigious nursing certification? Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting certified.
Step 1: Meet Eligibility Requirements
First, it’s essential to understand the eligibility requirements. Here’s what you’ll need to qualify for the exam:
- A current, active, and unencumbered RN license in the U.S. or Canada
- At least 24 months of specialty experience (2,000 hours) in patient care, education, research, or administration
- Evidence of employment in the specialty within the past 2 years
Step 2: Start Preparing for the Exam
Now that you’re eligible, it’s time to hit the books. Here are some great resources to help you get ready for the RNC-MNN exam:
- NCC study guide
- RNC-MNN practice questions
- NCC testing guide
- Registration catalog
- Recent reference texts, such as Maternal Newborn Nursing by Meometrix
- Study resources listed in the study guide
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Ready to test? Start by creating an account on the NCC website, filling in your details, and uploading all the necessary documents. Once your info is verified, you’ll get an eligibility letter — your green light to test. From there, you’ll have a 90-day window to take your exam.
Wondering what the exam experience will be like? You can take it in one of two ways:
- In-person at a PSI testing center
- Online with live remote proctoring
Step 4: Pay the Exam Fee
While the total cost for the exam can vary depending on preparation resources you chose to invest in, here’s a breakdown to help you plan your budget:
- Exam: $325
- NCC practice test: $35
- Books: Up to $100, depending on which ones you choose
Step 5: Pass the Exam
Curious about what the big day will be like? Knowing the exam details can ease your nerves and set you up for success. Let’s take a sneak peek at what to expect:
- Total questions: 175 (150 scored, 25 unscored)
- Time limit: 3 hours
- Passing criteria: There’s no specific percentage for passing; your results will simply indicate whether you passed or failed.
Step 6: Maintain Your Certification
Every three years, you’ll need to go through the renewal process to keep your credential active. This is key because your certification shows you’re a top specialist in your field. To keep that status, you’ve got to stay updated — medicine keeps evolving, and so should you.
You’ll have two options to renew:
| Continuing competence assessment: | Alternative maintenance: |
|---|---|
Renewal through continuing competence assessment:
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Renewal through an alternate maintenance option:
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What Is a Typical RNC-MNN Salary?
A typical maternity nurse salary in the U.S. is around $71,000 a year. You might earn more or less depending on your experience, work setting, and your degrees, such as ASN or BSN. RNC-MNN credential might help you become a top earner thanks to your specialized skills.
Where you work can significantly affect how much you earn. If you’re aiming for a higher paycheck, consider these top-paying states for RNs:
For more information about salary ranges in your area, check out the latest mother-baby nurse positions near you on IntelyCare.
FAQs: MNN Certification
How difficult is the RNC-MNN exam?
How difficult you find the test will depend on your level of preparation and how well you manage pre-test anxiety. The typical RNC-MNN pass rate is 94%, showing that many nurses successfully receive their credentials if they put in the study time.
What do I do if I fail the MNN RNC exam?
Curious about what happens if you don’t pass your exam? While you won’t get your money back, consider it a stepping stone rather than a stumbling block. You can retake the exam twice a year, with a 90-day waiting period before new attempts — the perfect time to fill in your knowledge gaps.
How do I verify my NCC certification?
You can send verification directly to your employer’s email by filling out the online verification form on the NCC website. Your employer can also request a verification of your certification independently. Here’re the fees to keep in mind:
- Look-up only: $10
- Download a copy: $20
- Email to someone: $30
What additional study resources can I use to prepare for the exam?
To level up your exam preparation, think about incorporating different study resources. Here are some extra tools you might find helpful:
- Explore Quizlet for RNC MNN test questions and flashcards.
- Explore YouTube for test reviews and educational walkthroughs.
- Attend live or recorded webinars focusing on key topics in maternal-newborn nursing.
- Find a nurse who has already passed the exam and can provide study tips.
- Joins professional organizations, such as Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric, and Neonatal Nurses (AWHONN) to stay updated on all the advancements in the specialty.
What are the benefits of MNN certification?
The RNC-MNN meaning goes beyond a simple title; it represents a specialized competency that can significantly impact your nursing career and the quality of care you provide. Here are some key benefits:
- Quality care: Studies have shown that certified nurses often provide higher quality care, helping you boost confidence in your role.
- Promotion potential: Certification can open doors to higher-level positions, such as clinical educator or nursing supervisor.
- Higher salary: Certified nurses often earn higher income and are sometimes offered reimbursement for certification expenses.
- Job opportunities: Certification sets your nursing resume apart in a crowded job market, showing that you have gone above and beyond standard nursing qualifications.
- Knowledge boost: Studying for the exam helps you deepen your knowledge and prepare for complex clinical situations.
Related Certifications
Looking to level up your career with more certifications? These additional credentials may be useful:
- Registered Nurse Certification in Inpatient Obstetric Nursing (RNC-OB)
- Registered Nurse Certification in Neonatal Intensive Care (RNC-NIC)
- Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP)
- Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB)
- Pediatric Emergency Assessment, Recognition, and Stabilization (PEARS)
- Emergency Nursing Pediatric Course (ENPC)
- Basic Life Support (BLS)
- Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)
- Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)
- S.T.A.B.L.E. certification
Ready for a New Exciting Nursing Opportunity?
Whether you’ve earned your RNC-MNN credential or are still on the journey, IntelyCare is here to help you elevate your career. We’ll connect you with quality nursing jobs that best match your skills and preferences. Explore your next opportunity now.