Nursing Continuing Education Requirements

There's no doubt that qualifying as a nurse and obtaining your professional license is an impressive achievement. After all, it takes a significant amount of talent, academic rigor, and discipline to work in healthcare. However, to retain your license and pursue the career you've worked so hard for, you must continue to educate yourself and stay informed of new health developments. In other words, you're expected to continue your education.

In some cases, failing to participate in continuing education modules, or even just forgetting to record your participation, can lead to disciplinary action. And in the most severe cases, you could lose your nursing license – temporarily or permanently.

At the Lento Law Firm, we are committed to ensuring that nurses like you get the legal support and assistance you deserve if you are facing continuing education issues. We know how much your license means to you – call now on 888.535.3686 or reach us online to schedule a meeting to discuss your case.

What Is Continuing Education for Nurses?

When your state board of nursing grants you a license, it means they recognize you hold at least the minimum level of knowledge required to safely practice nursing in the state. However, this does not mean that you are “done” learning. In many ways, qualifying as a nurse and obtaining your nursing license is only the beginning. You are expected to be a lifelong learner, which is where “continuing education” comes in.

What is “continuing education”? Continuing education for nurses is simply post-qualification training. It helps to ensure that nurses remain informed of new healthcare developments and best practices. In other words, it is a process for learning new skills and ensuring that a nurse can provide the safest care based on the most current, up-to-date healthcare standards.

Types of Continuing Education for Nurses

Continuing education for nurses takes many forms. The most common types of continuing education are:

● Conferences: Conferences may last a day, or a few days, and they may involve a blend of lectures, workshops, and scenario-based learning. Nurses may also be invited to speak or present at a conference, which could count towards continuing education.

● Classes: Classes maybe 50 to 60 minutes long and take place either in traditional classrooms or online in virtual classes. They could involve active participation or be more of a lecture-style model.

● Self-study Modules: Self-study modules allow nurses to work at their own pace to complete the workload. They will most likely sit an exam, or test, after completing the module to ensure they have achieved the desired learning outcomes.

● Academic Credits: In some cases, it is possible to use academic credits towards completion of continuing education requirements. This is helpful for nurses who may have completed significant schooling but may be out of time to register for specific continuing education prior to seeking renewal.

● Certification: Some organizations offer certificates in, e.g., medical techniques to prove that a nurse is qualified to perform a procedure.

The types of training you pursue – or are expected to pursue – vary depending on your goals and your level of experience. For example, what's appropriate for a Registered Nurse (RN) may not be necessary for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).

Continuing Education Units vs. Contact Hours: What's the Difference?

These terms are used interchangeably, but it's important to understand the difference.

A contact hour is an hour spent on a continuing education activity. Whereas a continuing education unit (CEU) is several contact hours taken as a whole. So, for example, you might have a continuing education unit of 10 contact hours.

The exact number of contact hours or continuing education units you need to renew your license will vary by state. You must always check with your state board to ensure you have the contact hours you need to complete your continued education.

Why Is Continuing Education Important?

Continuing education for healthcare professionals benefits the wider community. The public can be assured that nurses, doctors, and other healthcare workers have the most up-to-date medical knowledge and are committed to providing the safest, highest standard of care. Specifically, here is why nurses benefit from maintaining their continuing education requirements.

• State nursing boards often require nurses to hold certain qualifications or complete certain amounts of continuing education units to renew their licenses. Without completing these modules, a nurse may be unable to continue working.
• Continuing education exposes nurses to new skills and learning opportunities, which could make them more employable.
• Holding certain credentials allows nurses to pursue specialty care and promotions. Continuing education is, then, a long-term investment in a nurse's career.
• Continuing education equips a nurse with the most advanced healthcare knowledge available. This improves patient learning outcomes and optimizes care across all healthcare settings.
• There may be less risk of exposure to patient complaints or disciplinary action if nurses hold higher qualifications and know how to provide the best possible quality care.

Nurses should consider continuing education to improve their overall job satisfaction. Not only can it open doors to new opportunities, but it puts you in control of your professional future. It empowers you to be the best nurse you can be.

Is Continuing Education Mandatory?

Continuing education is strongly encouraged across all states. However, it is not always mandatory for, e.g., license renewal or securing a job offer. There are three major scenarios when continuing education could be mandatory:

• State-mandated requirements as part of your license renewal process.
• Board-mandated sanctions as part of disciplinary action.
• Job-mandated education to pursue certain jobs or specialties.

State Mandated Requirements

In many states, nursing boards will not renew a license, or they will revoke or suspend a license if continuing education requirements are not met. We'll look at some of these states and examples of their requirements below. However, bear in mind that continued education goes far beyond mere state requirements for renewal. Ongoing education helps you avoid patient complaints, lawsuits, and disciplinary action, because it helps you provide high quality patient care. On the other hand, failing to complete ongoing education and then receiving a complaint or notice of disciplinary action could count against you.

Continuing Education as Disciplinary Action

In some cases, nurses will be ordered to complete certain educational activities or modules as part of disciplinary action against them. This could involve, for example, mandatory training after allegedly performing duties negligently.

Job-Mandated Education

Some hospitals may require nurses to complete certain learning outcomes before they can apply for a job role. Nurses may also be required to undertake ongoing education to work in certain specialties, such as surgery or critical care. This is because medical knowledge is continuously evolving, and your employer or association may wish to confirm your level of competency before allowing you to undertake certain duties.

Who Provides Nursing Continuing Education?

Approved providers offer continuing education modules and programs across the US. You can find approved providers either through your state board of nursing or through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

Nurses should only undertake training that is relevant to them. For example, a nurse might attend a conference that technically awards them three contact hours, but if it's wholly irrelevant to their area of practice, then it may not be counted by the nursing board. This could easily result in issues with renewing a nursing license.

How much does continuing education cost? The costs vary from completely free to hundreds of dollars. What you must pay depends largely on the learning outcomes, the delivery method, and the provider.

Alternatives to Continuing Education

Some states will accept published work, research, teaching hours, academic credits, and even volunteer activities as alternatives to formal continuing education modules. It all depends on the state nursing board. North Carolina, for example, accepts completion of certain projects, or presentations for RNs. And completion of a research project, or authoring part of an academic book, counts towards continuing education for APRNs.

It is not uncommon for nursing boards to overlook activities that should count towards the satisfaction of a nurse's license renewal requirements. The Lento Law Firm Professional License Defense Team will ensure that a nursing board fully considers all evidence presented, including evidence that the nurse completed acceptable alternatives to formal contact hours.

How Do I Prove Completion of Continuing Education?

The proof required varies by state. However, generally, the following types of evidence can be accepted:

• Certificate of completion
• Proof of academic credit completion
• Test or exam results
• Professional feedback, e.g., from a conference presentation

Keep detailed records of all continuing education achievements. Be sure to note down the provider's name, date of completion, and the number of CEUs awarded after the course. A failure to keep adequate records could slow the renewal process or result in a license suspension.

State-Specific Nursing Continuing Education Requirements

Not all states require nurses to undertake certain amounts of continuing education. However, this is always subject to change, and you must check with your nursing board in plenty of time to seek renewal before assuming that you have no obligations.

Many states expect nurses to complete a certain level of continuing education within a given timeframe. This is usually anywhere between two and five years. In some cases, nurses must undertake specific modules in topics such as:

• Chronic pain
• Substance abuse
• HIV/AIDS
• Cultural awareness
• Child abuse mandatory reporter training

The level of education required will vary depending on the nurse level, e.g., RN or LPN. Here are a few examples of states with continuing education requirements.

• Florida:16 contact hours, including training on trafficking, error prevention, and HIV/AIDS.
• New Jersey:Every two years, RNs and LPNs must complete 30 contact hours which include opioid and addiction training.
• New York: Infection control coursework every four years for RNs and LPNs.
• Pennsylvania:For RNs, 30 contact hours are required every two years, including modules in child abuse. For LPNs, two hours of child abuse recognition and reporting at least every two years.
• Texas:20 contact hours for RNs and LPNs every two years, including jurisprudence and ethics training.

How to Check Your Continuing Education Requirements

It depends on who requires you to undertake the continuing education.

If, for example, you're checking your state's requirements, then the most reliable source of information will always be your state's nursing board. You can contact them directly or check their website for the most up-to-date guidance.

If your employer, or prospective employer, requires you to complete certain practical hours or certifications, then double-check the requirements with them. It may be best to have the advice in writing so you can rely on it should they later claim that you did not undertake the correct education.

If you are required to achieve certain learning outcomes or complete specific programs as part of disciplinary action, then confirmation of what is required should be available in writing as part of your disciplinary proceedings.

Common Continuing Education Issues for Nurses

Given how broad “continuing education” is, there are many issues which could arise and lead to disciplinary action or problems with the license renewal process. However, the most common continuing education issues for nurses are as follows.

• Failing to keep sufficiently detailed records of continuing education completed during the relevant period.
• Failing to complete the required number of contact hours or continuing education units prior to renewing a license.
• Disciplinary action stemming from an act of negligence or a failure in patient care, which may have been avoided if the nurse had complied with their ongoing learning obligations.
• Completing units which are irrelevant to the area of practice or to the level nursing qualification held.
• Failing to respond to a nursing board's requests for further information or to concerns around adherence to ongoing learning requirements.
• Being unable to pass or complete a module to the state board's satisfaction.
• Failing to complete remedial programs, which are part of disciplinary action against the nurse.

This is, of course, not an exhaustive list. Any complaint or disciplinary action, for example, could ultimately stem from a failure to fulfill certain learning outcomes. It may only be when a complaint is received that a nurse's lack of continuing education records come to light. If you have a licensing issue, our attorneys can explain whether continuing education requirements may be relevant.

Consequences of Failing to Maintain Continuing Education Requirements

Nurses work extremely hard, and it's easy for continuing education requirements to lapse or be overlooked. However, the consequences for failing to keep pace with ongoing learning obligations – however accidental – can be surprisingly severe.

Disciplinary Sanctions

Nurses may be ordered to complete certain modules, a certain number of contact hours, or specific certifications as part of wider disciplinary action. Or they could be placed on restricted or probationary work duty until they complete certain modules.

Refusal of License Renewal

Should the continuing education issue not be identified until license renewal time, then the board may simply refuse to renew a nurse's license until they complete the relevant modules. This can cause a significant amount of stress and anxiety and could lead to a short period where the nurse is unable to practice.

License Suspension

A nursing board may suspend a nurse's license for a specific period if they have failed to complete certain continuing education requirements. The license may be reinstated if the nurse completes the required modules or programs. However, in the meantime, the nurse is unable to practice, or their practice may be restricted. Ironically, this could lead to even further knowledge or practical skills gaps.

License Revocation

If there are concerns about a nurse's level of knowledge or practical skills, their license may be revoked. Losing a professional license is a grave punishment for any nurse. Although it may be possible to have a license reinstated, the process can take months, and there is often a lengthy period before you can even apply for reinstatement.

Professional Reputation Damage

A nurse who stands accused of failing to complete ongoing education could feel judged by their peers. There may be concerns that the nurse lacks the knowledge they should possess or that they are somehow unreliable, which could lead to strained workplace relationships.

Lack of Career Progression

Any disciplinary action, such as probation, suspension, or revocation, leaves a mark on a nurse's permanent disciplinary record. This could significantly limit a nurse's chances of securing a promotion or reaching their full potential, even if they successfully complete their continuing education requirements going forward.

Mental Health Impact

When a nursing board questions a nurse's ability to practice or to maintain their education obligations, it leads to stressful disciplinary procedures. And even if the matter is handled expediently, with minimal fuss, it can still leave scars. It's not uncommon for nurses to suffer stress, anxiety, or depression after disciplinary action.

Loss of Livelihood

In the most serious cases, such as a failure to comply with disciplinary sanctions, a nurse could lose their ability to practice in multiple states and, therefore, lose their entire livelihood. This could have severe final repercussions for a nurse and their whole family, especially if they are unable to find employment at a similar income level.

Defending Continuing Education Issues

Nursing boards must adhere to the fundamental rules of due process. Every nurse deserves the opportunity to defend themselves and present evidence to either:

• Explain why the nursing board is wrong and why they should not be sanctioned or
• Mitigate the proposed sanctions based on a full and clear explanation.

This means that it is entirely possible – and strongly encouraged – to take every step possible to protect a nursing license. The exact defenses available, of course, depend on the reasons for disciplinary action. In a continuing education context, however, defenses may include:

• Genuine belief that the correct modules were completed
• Following guidance issued by a state nursing board or other authority
• Genuine belief that the organization providing the continuing education was properly accredited

Our Professional License Defense Team can explain which defenses may be available, depending on the exact continuing education problems in your case.

Can My License Be Reinstated if I Meet My Continuing Education Requirements?

The answer is normally yes. If a nurse loses their license due to a continuing education matter, and they remedy the issue identified by the board, then they can usually apply for license reinstatement.

Nurses may wonder if they can continue working while they await license reinstatement. This will depend on the state nursing board policies and the circumstances of the individual case. In some cases, a nursing board may be willing to issue a temporary permit to allow the nurse to work in a restricted capacity until the deficiencies are corrected. The Lento Law Firm Professional License Defense Team will do everything possible to negotiate such an outcome if possible, in the situation.

The License Reinstatement Process

The exact license reinstatement process varies by state. However, across the US, boards follow generally the same procedures. Should nurses wish to reinstate their license after it is suspended or revoked due to a continuing education issue, the steps typically proceed as follows.

• Gather all relevant information, including proof of completing the required continuing education training, and be prepared to send it to the nursing board.
• Check the renewal or reinstatement process for your state. The information required will be available online. Usually, you will be required to complete an online application form and pay a reinstatement fee to have your application considered.
• Double-check that you have completed all the required learning outcomes and met the acceptance criteria before applying. For example, depending on how long you have been inactive, you may require additional refresher courses or certifications, even if you have completed the prescribed continuing education.
• Submit all relevant fees and documentation. You may also be required to submit, in writing, an explanation of what happened and why your license should be reinstated. Our Professional License Defense Team will assist with such matters when you hire us.

The reinstatement process can be cumbersome and time-consuming. In the meantime, unless you have a temporary permit, you are unable to work as a nurse in your state. Every moment counts – contact the Lento Law Firm to handle any nursing license issue as quickly and effectively as possible.

Can I Appeal a Decision to Suspend or Revoke My License?

The short answer is yes. Nurses can, typically, appeal a decision to suspend or revoke a nursing license in the US. All is not lost just because a nursing board moves against you.

The more nuanced answer is that it is inherently complex to appeal a nursing board's decision. And depending on the reasons for the suspension or revocation, you may be required to wait a certain period. It may, in some cases, be very difficult to appeal a revocation – again, it depends on the grounds for the board's decision.

Appealing a decision to suspend or revoke your license based on a perceived issue with a continuing education requirement is challenging but by no means impossible. You will, however, be required to explain the specific grounds on which you are appealing the decision. Suitable grounds include:

• The board failed to consider relevant evidence, e.g., submission of proof of continuing education completion.
• The board did not apply the law or its own procedural rules correctly.
• The decision is manifestly unfair or disproportionate based on the circumstances.

Appeals are not simply another chance to present your side of the story. There must be legal grounds for asking a court to reconsider the board's decision. If you wish to appeal a decision based on an alleged issue with your adherence to your continuing education obligations, then call our Professional License Defense Team to promptly discuss your options.

Do I Need an Attorney to Help With Continuing Education Issues?

It is, of course, understandable if you are considering handling your own continuing education issue. As a talented professional, you are probably sure that you can manage this issue alone. However, even professionals need assistance sometimes – and having an experienced attorney on your side could be the difference between retaining or losing your license.

• Nursing boards are committed to protecting public health. They will not hesitate to discipline nurses for even minor oversights, such as overlooking a continuing education requirement. You require your own representative who is just as committed to protecting your legal interests and rights.
• Each nursing board will have its own dedicated legal counsel. They understand how to apply the relevant laws, rules, and regulations and how to exploit any loopholes or rules that are open to interpretation. Should you hire an experienced attorney, they will use their own knowledge and similar tactics to your advantage.
• Disciplinary procedures are complicated. However, it's often possible to deal with matters expediently if negotiations are handled correctly. The goal is always to avoid formal hearings and lengthy delays. This is the goal you can expect an experienced attorney to work towards.
• Any disciplinary issue is mentally and emotionally draining. Hiring an attorney allows you to focus on rebuilding your career and moving forward rather than dwelling on complex legal processes.

How the Lento Law Firm Can Help

If you have never retained an attorney for a disciplinary or licensing matter before, then you may be unsure what to expect. So, to help, here's why you should retain the Lento Law Firm Professional License Defense Team and what you can expect when you hire us.

• Knowledge: Continuing education requirements and, indeed, nursing disciplinary matters are complex. And the laws around nursing license suspension or revocation can be challenging. However, our attorneys are very familiar with this area of law, and we will apply our knowledge to your strategic advantage wherever possible.
• Experience: The Lento Law Firm Team is highly experienced in handling all professional licensing matters, including nursing license disciplinary issues. We will use our experience to determine your options, negotiate with the relevant parties, and help you make an informed decision for moving forward.
• Commitment: Our attorneys are passionate about what we do. Every client matters to the Lento Law Firm Team. So, when you retain us, you can expect our full support and commitment to your case.
• Diligence: When it comes to licensing matters, we understand that time is precious. There is not a moment to waste. Therefore, you can expect us to be responsive, diligent, and prepared for all eventualities.
• Dedication: Our team cares about what happened to you. We care about helping you preserve the career you have worked so hard for. We are dedicated to helping you resolve disciplinary issues stemming from continuing education matters as quickly and painlessly as possible.
• Compassion: We know how challenging it is to juggle the demands of a professional nursing career and continuing education requirements. Our attorneys will treat you with the respect and compassion you deserve while we fight to help you retain your nursing license.

Nationwide Professional License Defense Team

As a leading nationwide law firm, the Lento Law Firm represents nurses across the US. No matter where you are located or which specialty you work in, we have attorneys waiting and ready to assist you. We represent nurses at every stage of their career in any healthcare setting, including:

• Hospitals
• Clinics
• Outpatient care centers
• Physician's offices
• Nursing homes
• Assisted care facilities

We also represent nurses who work in less conventional settings such as schools and home healthcare settings. Regardless of where you practice, we have the experience to liaise with the relevant nursing boards and disciplinary officers to help negotiate the fairest possible outcome.

Retain the Lento Law Firm Professional License Defense Team Today

For any nurse, a nursing license is priceless. Any threat to a professional license is a threat to your livelihood and your ability to pursue the career you have worked so hard for. And at the Lento Law Firm, our Professional License Defense Team takes such threats seriously.

We understand how passionate you are about your career and how much time, effort, and money you have invested in nursing. If you are dealing with a continuing education issue, then you deserve a chance to defend yourself against any allegations and prove that you have the skills, knowledge, and ability to practice nursing safely. And that's where we can help.

Retain our Professional License Defense Team, and you can expect us to stand by your side and guide you through the entire disciplinary process. Whether this means providing a more thorough explanation of what happened, negotiating with a nursing board, or supplying evidence in your favor, we will do everything possible to secure a favorable outcome based on the circumstances.

Do not leave anything to chance. You must do everything possible to protect your nursing license. To discuss how we can help when we represent you, call 888.535.3686 or reach us online. Retain us, and we will start working on your case right away.