How Continuing Education For Nurses Benefits Employers and Employees
Nurses Benefits Employers and Employees
Continuing education for nurses is a vitally important part of being a nurse. Many states require that all nurses complete certain hours of continuing education or they can lose their nursing license. Further, completing additional education can boost an employee’s salary and pay grade. Further, it shows the employer that the nurse is dedicated to their work, which can be a positive factor when asking for a raise or promotion.
Continuing education for nurses can help nurses enhance their skills and keep current with evidence-based practices. This can lower their risk of legal issues and increase their earning potential. Further, continuing education can help nurses increase their personal satisfaction by reinvigorating their interest in the profession. Many continuing education courses are available on a variety of topics, and nurses can choose topics that interest them the most.
The cost of continuing education for nurses can be quite high, but there are also many free courses available. Some states require nurses to attend classes in person, while others offer online courses that can be completed on a schedule that works for them. Whether you choose to take online classes or attend a live class, you can expect to spend less than $100 for most of these courses. If you are working at a large hospital, you may be able to get CEUs from them. However, you need to check with your employer to ensure that they offer these programs.
Continuing education is a vital part of nursing practice. Many states mandate that nurses continue their education in order to maintain their licenses. In some cases, nurses may need to demonstrate their continuing competency to obtain a Magnet hospital or pursue a certain specialty. Therefore, continuing education for nurses is a wise investment that will benefit employers and employees alike.
How Continuing Education For Nurses Benefits Employers and Employees
In addition to enhancing a nurse’s resume, continuing education can increase their reputation in the field. The renewed knowledge can help solidify a nurse’s role as a source of trusted advice. Further, it establishes the nurse’s credibility as a role model for other nurses. And, many states require their nurses to take CEU courses. So, why not make the most of it?
Continuing education for nurses is essential to keep abreast of the latest trends in nursing. This is because nurses are expected to be lifelong learners. Continuing education for nurses also helps nurses to become nurse educators. However, the shortage of nurses has led to a shortage of nurse educators. Although most schools of nursing prefer MSNs and PhDs, nurses with a BSN or equivalent can still find work as an educator in an LPN/LVN program, nurses aid programs, or even home health aide programs.
In terms of pay, continuing education allowances range between $1,000 and $2,000 and are provided to nurses by employers. This money covers travel expenses to and from the conference, registration fees, lodging, and meals during the conference. Consequently, a $2,000 allowance should be enough to cover the cost of most conferences in the continental United States.
Free RN CEUs are available through hospital systems and some online educational sites. Each state’s nursing board has its own specific requirements for approving CEUs, so it is important to check with your state board before choosing a course. You can also take classes at a local university or even take an online course.