What Are the Certification and Licensing Variabilities?
Certification and licensing requirements for nurses also exhibit variability. For instance, RNs must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain licensure, but the additional certifications required for specialized roles such as Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) or Pediatric Nurse (CPN) vary based on the specialty. Furthermore, some states have additional requirements for continuing education and periodic renewal of licenses.