Category: HCP

The healthcare industry is constantly changing. Best practices change while medical knowledge continuously gets updated. In such a dynamic industry, it is important for Registered Nurses (RNs) to stay on their toes. This is why state governments like Delaware makes RNs renew their license on a periodic basis. The Delaware RN license renewal process is crucial for ensuring that nurses maintain their professional qualifications. This comprehensive guide, optimized for SEO, will walk you through the steps and requirements for renewing your RN license in Delaware in 2023. Whether you’re a seasoned nurse or a recent graduate, understanding the renewal process is vital to keeping your career on track.

Eligibility and Renewal Period

Before embarking on the Delaware RN license renewal journey, it’s crucial to determine if you meet the eligibility criteria. The first thing to consider is the renewal period, which typically spans two years and aligns with your birth month. This means that your renewal cycle starts on the first day of your birth month and concludes on the last day of the month before your birth month. For example, if your birthday falls in July, your renewal period would run from July 1st to June 30th every two years.

Renewal Notification and Importance

The Delaware Board of Nursing makes it easier for RNs to stay on top of their renewal deadlines. Approximately 90 days before your license expiration date, you should receive a renewal notice from the board. This notification is a crucial reminder that allows you to prepare for the renewal process well in advance. Ensuring that your contact information is accurate with the board is essential to receive these reminders, so always keep your details up to date.

Continuing Education Requirements

Delaware places a strong emphasis on continuing education (CE) as part of its RN license renewal process. To meet these requirements, you must accumulate a minimum of 30 contact hours of CE over the two-year renewal period. CE activities must be directly related to the practice of nursing and approved by the Delaware Board of Nursing. This is an excellent opportunity for RNs to stay current with the latest developments in the field and maintain the highest standards of patient care.

Documenting your CE activities is a critical part of the renewal process. Be prepared to provide evidence of your completed CE courses, as the board may request verification of your activities. These records should be retained for at least two renewal cycles in case of an audit. Ensure that the courses you choose align with the state’s requirements to avoid complications during the renewal process.

Criminal Background Check

Delaware law may mandate a criminal background check as part of the RN license renewal process. It’s essential to adhere to this requirement, as a failure to do so could lead to delays or complications in your renewal. The specific details of this background check, including when and how it should be conducted, can vary, so be sure to check the latest regulations from the Delaware Board of Nursing.

Renewal Application and Fees

Thankfully RNs can submit their applications to the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation’s website. The shift to online has made the application process more convenient and expedient than it used to be. When completing the application, you will need to provide information about your current employment status and the CE activities you’ve undertaken.

A critical aspect of the renewal process is the renewal fee. The amount of the fee can change, so it’s essential to check with the Delaware Board of Nursing for the most current fee schedule. Payment can often be made through various methods, including credit card transactions online.

Renewal Deadline and Grace Period

Timing is everything when it comes to RN license renewal. Missing the renewal deadline can result in late fees or even the temporary suspension of your license. However, Delaware typically allows a grace period for renewal. This grace period gives you some extra time to complete the renewal process without incurring severe penalties. Nonetheless, it’s in your best interest to renew your license promptly to ensure uninterrupted practice.

License Verification

After submitting your renewal application, you can typically check the status of your license renewal online. This allows you to confirm that your renewal has been processed successfully. It’s also a valuable tool for verifying your license to potential employers, so ensure that your license status remains up-to-date.

Conclusion

Renewing your RN license in Delaware is a crucial aspect of your nursing career. Keeping your license current ensures that you can continue providing high-quality care to patients and maintaining your professional standing. The Delaware RN license renewal process may seem complex, but by following the guidelines and staying informed about the latest requirements, you can navigate it successfully. Remember that the healthcare industry evolves, and staying informed and compliant is the key to being a successful RN in Delaware. Stay updated, renew on time, and continue making a positive impact on healthcare in the First State.

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To continue practicing as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Alaska, you have to be diligent about periodically renewing your license.  License renewal is not only a legal requirement but also a demonstration of your commitment to maintaining your professional qualifications. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps, requirements, and essential information you need for a successful RN license renewal in Alaska.

Understanding RN License Renewal in Alaska

Renewal Period: In Alaska, RN licenses must be renewed every two years. The renewal period generally begins on your birthday and extends for 60 days following your birthday. Failing to renew within this timeframe can result in late fees or even license suspension.

Continuing Education: Alaska’s Board of Nursing often requires RNs to complete a specific number of continuing education hours to renew their licenses. As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, it was typically around 30 hours every two years. However, these requirements may have changed. Always verify the current requirements from the Alaska Board of Nursing.

License Renewal Fees: Be prepared to pay the renewal fee. The amount can vary, so it’s essential to check the Alaska Board of Nursing’s website for the most up-to-date information on fees and payment methods. Remember that late renewals can incur additional charges.

Online Renewal and Paper Renewal: Alaska offers both online and paper-based renewal options. The online renewal system provides a convenient and efficient way to renew your license, while paper renewal forms can be requested if you prefer a traditional method.

Criminal Background Check: Some states, including Alaska, may require RNs to undergo a criminal background check as part of the renewal process. Ensure you comply with this requirement if it applies to you.

The Step-by-Step Guide to RN License Renewal

Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility

Before proceeding with the renewal process, confirm that you are eligible for renewal. You typically need to have met the following requirements:

• Hold a valid RN license in Alaska.
• Have no unresolved complaints or disciplinary actions against your license.
• Have met the continuing education requirements if applicable.

Step 2: Prepare for Continuing Education

If continuing education hours are required for renewal, plan to complete them well in advance. Consider these key points:

• Find approved courses, workshops, conferences, or online programs that meet the state’s requirements.
• Ensure the courses you choose are recognized by the Alaska Board of Nursing. Always double-check the most recent guidelines on their website.
• Maintain records of your completed education hours and certificates as proof of completion.

Step 3: Check Your License Renewal Date

Your renewal period begins on your birthday, and you have 60 days following your birthday to renew without incurring late fees. Mark your calendar to ensure you don’t miss the deadline.

Step 4: Online vs. Paper Renewal

Alaska offers both online and paper renewal options:

Online Renewal:

Like many states, Alaska has moved to an online RN license renewal process. This shift has made things far more convenient for RNs across the country, and has transformed renewal applications into a stress-free process. :

• Visit the Alaska Board of Nursing’s official website.
• Log in to your account or create one if you don’t already have one.
• Follow the prompts to renew your RN license.
• Pay the required renewal fee using a secure online payment method.
• Verify and update your contact information, including your mailing address and email.

Paper Renewal:

If you prefer a paper renewal form, you can request one from the Alaska Board of Nursing. Follow these steps:

• Contact the Alaska Board of Nursing to request a paper renewal form well in advance of your renewal date.
• Complete the form, including all required information and signatures.
• Mail the completed form, along with the renewal fee (check or money order), to the address provided on the form.
• Ensure the renewal form reaches the board within the designated renewal period.

Step 5: License Renewal Fees

Be prepared to pay the required renewal fee. The fee can vary based on factors like your license type and whether you’re renewing on time or late. Verify the current fee on the Alaska Board of Nursing’s website.

Step 6: Criminal Background Check

At the time of writing,  Alaska required RNs to complete a criminal background check during the renewal process. Ensure you comply with this requirement, which may include fingerprinting and submission of a background check application.

Step 7: Verification of Employment

There is a chance that you may be asked to provide proof of employment, to show that you are in active practice and keeping your skills sharp. Check the specific requirements for Alaska, and be ready to provide documentation as needed.

Renewal Reminders and Best Practices

Here are some additional tips and best practices for a smooth RN license renewal process in Alaska:

• Stay Informed: Licensing requirements and procedures may change over time, so it’s crucial to stay informed about any updates or changes. The Alaska Board of Nursing’s website is the primary source of information. Frequently check for updates and announcements.
• Set Up Reminders: Missing your renewal deadline can have serious consequences, including the potential suspension of your license. Set up reminders well in advance to ensure you submit your renewal application on time.
• Contact the Board: If you have any questions or concerns about the renewal process, don’t hesitate to contact the Alaska Board of Nursing. They can provide guidance and clarification on specific issues.
• Maintain Accurate Contact Information: Keep your contact information up to date with the board. This includes your mailing address and email, as they will use these to communicate with you regarding your license status and renewal.
• Consider Multi-State Licensure: If you hold licenses in multiple states, you might want to explore the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows you to practice in other compact states without obtaining additional licenses.

Conclusion

Renewing your RN license in Alaska is a necessary and straightforward process, provided you plan ahead, meet the requirements, and stay informed about any changes in regulations. As long as you follow the tips and guidelines outlined by this article renewing your RN license should be a breeze. With renewal no longer being a concern, this allows you to continue providing excellent nursing care in the state of Alaska. Remember, the key to a smooth renewal process is to start early and stay informed about the latest requirements and procedures.

Explore Exciting RN Job Opportunities in Alaska at VitaWerks!

Healthcare organizations are run by a variety of people from various backgrounds. Promoting diversity means recognizing and celebrating the different people who make these organizations feel celebrated and seen. Why exactly have facilities placed more of an emphasis on fostering a culture of diversity in the workplace now, more than ever before? And what are the best strategies for promoting and fostering this culture of acceptance? Today, we look to answer all these questions and more.

Why is diversity important?

The healthcare workforce is more diverse than it has ever been. These days, healthcare providers work with patients and co-workers who come from a variety of different cultures, races and beliefs. Diversity in healthcare recognizes these key differences, which includes (but is not limited to):

• Race
• Gender
• Sexual Orientation
• Language and culture
• Age
• Socioeconomic standing
• Religious Beliefs

Promoting diversity means bridging the gap between these different cultures. Our upbringing and backgrounds determine our beliefs and dispositions. By recognizing and celebrating them, facilities make everyone feel more safe and welcome to the healthcare system. Research also shows that facilities with more racial and gender diversity are more likely to outperform less diverse organizations. Naturally, healthcare workers who feel more welcome and comfortable are also more productive. Not only is promoting diversity the right thing to do, it will also pay dividends for the organization as a whole.

How does a facility promote diversity?

Encouraging and hiring a diverse range of applicants will be key to the success of healthcare facilities in the future. While the US population is becoming more diverse by the year, certain demographics remain underrepresented in the healthcare workforce. According to a survey, White nurses make up 80.6% of all nurses, but only 60% of the population.

In comparison, Hispanic, Black and Asian populations have a much harder time finding physicians of the same race. For reference, the Association of American Medical Colleges states that only 6% of physicians are black, compared to 13% of the population. This may seem like a trivial matter, but healthcare is a deeply interpersonal process. Research has shown African American patients are more willing to open up with and trust African American healthcare providers. By having diverse hires, you ensure that patients and co-workers always have an HCP they can truly connect with.

What else can be done?

Everyone on a healthcare staff must know how to handle a number of people from differing backgrounds and beliefs. In recent years, facilities have invested heavily into developing and implementing cultural competency programs that bring the entire staff up to speed. On the face of it, cultural competency is a set of guiding principles that makes HCPs more aware of the importance of culture, how cultural differences affect interactions, and how they can adapt their approach around the perceived differences.  For example: if someone refused further treatment on the grounds of religious regions, strongly insisting or coercing them to accept treatment regardless would be unethical and highly unhelpful.

How is cultural competency promoted?

Cultural competency is promoted with developed training programs, creating a dedicated diversity team for guidance and counsel, and (most importantly) leading by example on the part of the managers. It takes a great deal of investment, but the results are worth it more often than not. When properly implemented, healthcare workers become more effective with navigating these situations and tailoring their approach around them, while maintaining respect for differences in beliefs.

What can happen if diversity is not promoted?

It is a factual statement that bias exists in healthcare, and can cost lives. Seemingly small misconceptions can pile up to create disastrous results. An often cited example is the various false notions that are held of black patients. The idea that they are “more pain tolerant” than other races directly led to them being 22% less likely to receive adequate pain medications, compared to their white counterparts. This is not an act of malice, but rather a series of mistakes that come as a direct result of racist ideas that are deeply ingrained into the social consciousness.

Meanwhile, outward discrimination can prevent minorities from receiving proper health care outright. Many LGBTQ+ individuals recount experiences where life saving medications or treatment have been withheld from them, because of what they identify as. These struggles are not exclusive to black or gay patients either. Many minorities face discrimination or implicit biases from the healthcare systems they are supposed to trust. Promoting diversity is a crucial step towards combating these stereotypes, and ensuring that everyone receives the same level of treatment.

Nurse practitioners have gained prominence over the last couple of years. The comprehensive care services they provide have only increased in demand, especially as an alternative to physician consultation. Becoming a nurse practitioner is a huge investment that requires years of education, and unsurprisingly, the programs themselves can be rather expensive. Though they still are not cheap, online NP programs have risen in popularity as a more cost-effective way to receive your education.

You still want to pick the best and most quality online education, to best prepare you for the rigors of NP work. This article lists the most reputable and highly sought after online NP programs. Though not every quality online NP class is listed, browsing this list will help you get started on your NP journey.

• Georgetown University – Georgetown’s School of Nursing is generally highly regarded, and its NP courses are no exception. Students can enroll for a world-class Family Nurse Practitioner online class that blends online lectures with in-person laboratory work and clinical rotations.
• Vanderbilt University – As one of Tennessee’s most prestigious schools, it is no surprise that Vanderbilt’s School of Nursing is held in such high regard. More specifically, they offer an online Adult-Gerontology NP program for students who want to specialize in that line of work.
• University of Cincinnati – Cincinnati possesses some of the most highly regarded healthcare facilities in the world and their college offerings are just as strong. UC’s online Nurse Practitioner course ranks among the best in the world, and users have the option to specialize in a number of different tracks like Family NP.
• Johns Hopkins University – John Hopkins is well received for its strong healthcare courses in general. Now they offer several different online NP courses that cater to various different specializations, which you can pick based on your priorities.
• University of South Carolina – The Tar Heels have more to offer than one of the best basketball programs in the country. Their Nurse Practitioner offerings are not only world-class, but students can choose from a variety of different specializations. This includes Family NP and Psychiatric-Mental Health NP.
• Ohio State University – The OSU’s storied College of Nursing department offers online lessons. For nurses who aspire to become Family NPs, the OSU’s College of Nursing has a proven track record of excellence and quality across the board.
• University of Alabama- Alabama’s online Masters Nursing offerings are tied for 2nd best in the nation, according to US News. Not only are the programs world-class, but students have the leisure of acquiring recordings of lectures and accessing them at their convenience.
• University of Michigan – The oldest university in Michigan remains one of the most respected educational institutions in the country. Their Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP online course will equip you with the knowledge and training needed to thrive in these fields.
• Duke University – Duke’s medical department is easily one of the most well regarded offerings in the country, and their online NP offering is no exception. Students can choose from a number of specialized NP tracks to guide their learning towards their desired field of choice.

What is the best NP program for me?

There is no “one-size fits all” NP program that best suits everyone. Is location a consideration for you? Do you have a budget limitation? And ultimately, where do you want your career to be in the next few years. These are considerations you must weigh, before you choose your desired NP track. You can also consult with your co-workers, or friends in the industry. NPs in particular will provide you with the insight you need to make the right decision. As long as you research thoroughly, and exercise self-reflection, you will find the online NP program that best suits your ambitions and current needs .

Nursing scholarships provide opportunities to less fortunate nursing students. They are provided the necessary financial assistance to enroll in or participate in their nursing school effectively, without being saddled with the burden of debt associated with loans. With so many scholarships to choose from, the natural inclination is to submit as many different applications as possible. That being said, you definitely want to avoid providing sensitive information to what initially seems like a legitimate operation but turns out to be a scam. To get you started, here are some high profile scholarship programs well worth considering.

Foundation of the National Student Nurses Association (FNSNA) General Scholarship

This scholarship is open to every nursing student who is enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate nursing program that is approved by the state. Though the specific requirements can change from year to year, most scholarships focus on particular areas of nursing. If it is currently applicable to you, you can apply provided that you are a US citizen or an alien with permanent resident status.

Students who win the scholarship are rewarded with $1,000 to $7,500 annually. This amount is used to cover costs related to academics such as books and tuition fees, and any excess is returned to the organization. For more information and to apply, visit their official website here.

Hurst Review Services Nursing AACN Scholarship

If you are enrolled in a school that is part of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), you are eligible for this scholarship. More specifically, you have to be pursuing any sort of professional nursing degree from one of these schools. After applying on January 15 or July 15, two lucky winners have the chance to be awarded a $2,500 grant every year. Applications can be submitted to their official website.

Unigo $10K Scholarship

As the name  implies, winners of the Unigo Scholarship win a one time grant of $10,000 for academic purposes. This scholarship is available for anyone who is 13 years old or older by the time they submit their application. You have to be a legal resident of the US and are currently enrolled in a postsecondary school with the necessary accreditation. Interested applicants can submit their applications online, along with a 250 word essay around the most recent writing prompt.

Army Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP)

Every year, the US Department of Defense provides a hefty scholarship for over 300 students. Highschool seniors and graduates can apply for the chance to win over $250,000 in academic funding along with a medical stipend, courtesy of the DoD. Take note that if you accept this scholarship, you should be prepared to work in the military as a medical officer. This scholarship is provided by all three branches of the military (Army, Navy, Marine) and is available for applicants between the ages of 18 and 45.

A Nurse I Am Scholarship

10 medical students a year are provided with a $3,000 scholarship that covers for associated medical costs, a one year membership with the American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL), and some assistance with additional scrubs and accessories. To qualify, you must be enrolled in an ADN, BSN, diploma, LVN/LPN, or RN-to-BSN class.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently updated its pneumonia vaccine guidelines for infants and young children. HCPs and HCP students alike can expect a number of different facilities to tweak their practice policies as a direct result. Why are these changes so important, and what adjustments may have to be made for HCPs and facilities alike? This article breaks down everything you need to know about the CDC’s most recent suggestions.

What is pneumococcal disease?

“Pneumococcal disease” actually refers to a number of different conditions that are caused by the Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria. This includes (but is not limited to) ear infections, sinus diseases, lung infections, and bloodstream infections. Most seriously, the bacteria can infect the structures surrounding the brain and the spinal cord. This makes the bacteria the leading cause of meningitis among children under the age of 5. Overall there are 100 strains of the bacteria, although only a handful of them actually cause the aforementioned infections.

What changes have been made to the CDC’s vaccine guidelines.

The pneumonia vaccine protects patients from the Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria itself, and all its associated conditions. Per the CDC, pneumococcal disease is attributed to have caused 150,000 hospitalizations on an annual basis. In particular, certain groups of people are more vulnerable to these bacterial infections than others. This includes the elderly, adults with autoimmune conditions and (most relevant for our purposes) children and infants.

To protect younger populations, the CDC has expanded its scope. Now, it recommends that children under from 2 to 23 months of age are allowed to receive the PCV20 variant of the pneumonia vaccine. At the time of writing, these are the current CDC pneumonia vaccine recommendations:

Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine 13 (PCV13) — covers 13 serotypes

Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine 15 (PCV15) — covers 15 serotypes

Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine 20 (PCV 20) — covers 20 serotypes

Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine 23 (PPSV23) — covers 23 serotypes

PPSV23 offers the most coverage but it is considered too dangerous for infants. Instead, children from 2 to 23 months can receive the vaccine with the second best coverage, as of June 2023.

What has changed for HCPs and HCP students?

Understandably, the new guidelines have changed the vaccine protocol for many healthcare providers. This is especially the case if you work in neonatal and pediatric departments, as well as outpatient pediatric clinics (just to name a few.) Though there are no unifying guidelines, HCPs can expect to make the following adaptations:

For one, the vaccine you are given heavily depends on your age, current condition, and Past Medical History. To ensure that children are given the proper and safe vaccine shots, HCPs may be asked to follow a certain procedure in order to collect a young patient’s Past Medical History from their parents or guardians. This includes, but is not limited to, allergies, recent illnesses, chronic illnesses and more. Nurses can also expect to inform and educate parents and guardians on the vaccine. This is usually done through providing vaccine information sheets that contain the most updated information regarding vaccination.

This is a crucial step in combating misinformation and assuaging any doubts a parental figure may have.  Finally, you have to remind and encourage parents for follow up shots or boosters, whenever an update arrives. Each hospital will have their different procedures in this regard, but it will be a necessary step, especially for HCPs who work in neonatal or pediatric settings.

To succeed in healthcare, a good resume will go a long way. Healthcare hiring is quick, competitive and oftentimes brutal. Your resume is your first impression with your prospective facilities, and it has to be a good one. Nowadays, companies simply will not spend a long amount of time looking at someone’s resume, before they have made their decision. They are looking for a precise list of qualifications and skills that best suits their current vacancies. Though it may differ on a case by case basis, most facilities look for a handful of core skills when they are enlisting LPNs, RNs, and CNAs. To get you started on writing an eye catching resume, this guide will highlight some of the most on-demand skills in the healthcare marketplace.

CNA

Communication skills

CNAs have to stay on the same page with their patients, supervisors and fellow HCPs. They need to coordinate their efforts while providing patients with both education regarding their condition and treatment, as well as emotional support during a potentially difficult time in their lives.  This requires a great deal of verbal, nonverbal and written communication skills. Not only should you be able to talk to them with compassion, you also need the empathy and awareness to read between the lines. A good CNA can note their mannerisms and tics, to figure out what they are not saying. From there they can adjust their approach to make the process more comfortable.

Attention to detail

Nonverbal tics are not the only details that CNAs must pay attention to. To be an effective CNA, you need to have an eye for detail no matter what you do. Nurse aides are expected to watch over their patients, and report any sudden changes in condition. Some of these shifts are immediately apparent while others are more subtle, and require both knowledge and a sharp eye to notice.

HCPs may also be asked to hand out medications. In these instances, they are given precise instructions by a physician as to what exactly they have to give out. As a mistake can be fatal at the worst of times, CNAs must pay attention and be sure they are providing the correct dosage, type of medication, and at the right times.

Checking vital signs

On a basic level, every HCP (let alone CNA) must know how to do this. Checking vital signs is the quickest way to monitor a patient’s current condition. You can tell a lot about their status from their breathing, heart rate, blood pressure and more. This is a crucial step with regards to evaluating the effectiveness of the current treatment plan, seeing if there are any sudden changes, and keeping track of the pace of their recovery.

LVN

Clinical skills

Compared to CNAs, LVNs take on a greater deal of clinical responsibility. It is important to list your clinical skills, to highlight your ability to thrive in such a setting. This includes monitoring vital signs, which was mentioned earlier, dressing patient wounds, drawing blood, operating IVs, administering catheters and more. LVNs take on a broad list of responsibilities in the medical workplace, and you need to make it clear that you are ready for them.

Adaptability

Healthcare is a volatile profession. From patient condition, to facility funding and workload, everything is subject to change at all times. This is why HCPs like LVNs have to be calm under pressure. They need to show a capacity to adapt with a changing environment, and stay calm in the middle of high pressure situations. In case they ask you about this point during an interview, be sure you have an example in your mind where you were presented with a high-stress situation, and handled it calmly and appropriately.

Time management

It is not uncommon for LVNs to be tasked with multiple cases at a time. You could be assigned a number of cases or tasks that seem impossible to finish within a single shift. That is why facilities want LVNs with the stamina and time management skills to multitask efficiently, while maintaining a certain level of productivity and composure. As with adaptability, be sure you can draw an example from your prior work experience of you displaying the kind of time management that is needed to succeed in healthcare.

RN

Critical thinking

Registered nurses take on greater responsibilities in clinical settings, compared to their LVN and CNA counterparts. They have a direct hand on creating care plans, evaluating their effectiveness, and making necessary adjustments. While important on all levels of healthcare, it is especially important that RNs possess the critical thinking needed to navigate complex situations and solve difficult medical problems that do not have immediate issues. It is one thing to possess medical knowledge, but it is a different matter entirely to apply it effectively.

Patient and family education

Though briefly mentioned with ‘communication,’ RNs are crucial with providing patient education. They inform both patients and patient families on their current condition and alternative treatment plans, in the simplest and most easy-to-understand terms possible. Medical jargon can be overwhelming at the best of times, so “merely’ simplifying things is a skill unto itself. In addition, RNs need to do all this without overwhelming their patients. Even if they have bad news, it must be given in the gentlest way possible.

EHR Proficiency

More and more, facilities are moving towards digital health records. This makes it easier for RNs to access vital patient information that is securely stored in a cloud server. This is why proficiency with Electronic Health Record (EHR) software will be on high demand in the coming years. You can talk about your general proficiency with EHR, but if you worked with certain EHR software in the past, do not be afraid to list them all on your resume.

Related: Interpersonal Skills: Definitions and Examples

Record-keeping

CNAs are often in charge of keeping records about patients. This will include writing things like the treatment your patient has received, when they received it and how they reacted to it. Being able to keep detailed records will allow doctors and nurses to provide the best care to patients.

In many work environments, you won’t be the only person taking care of a single patient. This makes it especially important that the records kept on that patient are accurate. It will help provide other caregivers with information such as what medications the patient is on. If you’re diligent and detailed in keeping records, this is a good skill to list on your CNA resume.

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On October 16, 2023, Gavin Newsom signed a law that raised the minimum wage of $25 per hour for nurses, for the next several years. Though some officials raised concerns about how it would affect the state budget, consensus was that the positives would far outweigh any perceived negative effects. Nurses risk their lives for the continued safety and health of the population, and they deserve a wage that lets them cover all their living costs. This coincides with a general movement towards increasing minimum wage across different cities in the country. In this new market, it is important for HCPs to maximize their value. Your work matters, and you want to be compensated for what you are worth.

Find shifts through VitaWerks

The VitaWerks app has provided rates at or exceeding $25/hr, long before the new regulations. LVNs, CNAs, and RNs can choose to book shifts with us and build their preferred work schedules. Whether you prefer part time or full time, and no matter what kind of facilities you prefer to work with, VitaWerks offers you the professional freedom to tailor your itinerary based on your preferences.

How does VitaWerks rates compare to the market?

While you create your perfect work arrangement, our staff is working 24/7 to secure the highest possible rates in all of California. We will pair you with per diem shifts and offers that dwarf most standard full time deals, even after the new minimum wage laws. Take your career to the next level, and sign up with VitaWerks now. Maximizing your earning potential has never been easier or more convenient.

Earn additional certifications

The demand for versatile HCPs is only increasing, each passing year. Facilities want nurses and nursing assistants with a wide range of skills and competencies. So much so that they are willing to increase their offers for HCPs who have additional certifications and credentials. Not only does this prove that they have the qualifications needed to contribute to a healthcare setting, it also displays a commitment towards bettering yourself.

What kind of certifications do I pursue?

Not every certification is equally sought after. Some job descriptions will explicitly list what certifications they want out of their applicants, while certain specializations/fields will prefer applicants with certain qualifications as a general rule. For example: if you want to work in critical care units, a certificate in Critical Care Registered Nursing (CCRN) is not required but highly recommended. Do your research and consult with other HCPs before you take up a role, and you should be fine.

Improve your education

Higher degrees do not necessarily coincide with higher compensation. However, they can lead you to better job opportunities, which may lead to better rates in the future. A registered nurse with an associate’s degree may be as valuable as one with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, but most facilities will prioritize the latter. Several studies have even shown a correlation between the quality of HCP education and positive clinical outcomes. Investing in further education such as a Masters’ degree or a Bachelor’s degree may be a costly endeavor, but it will pay dividends if you approach it correctly.

How can I cover the costs?

As you already know, further nursing education is incredibly expensive. Covering the costs will be no easy task, but there are avenues that HCPs can consider. Most local programs are cheaper for in-state applicants, for example. HCPs can also apply for student loans, although it is important to do your research beforehand. You want to be sure that the loan providers have a good reputation and are acting in good faith. You also want to be sure you have the security to pay those loans over a prolonged period of time. These costs add up, but the increased job opportunities and associated rise in compensation will make up for this in the future. Just weigh the pros and cons, before committing yourself to furthering your education.

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