Washington RNs: Keeping Your License Shiny and Your Skills Sharper Than a Scalpel (Without Giving Up Your Entire Weekend)
So, you're a Registered Nurse in Washington state, saving lives and rocking those scrubs like a fashion icon. But hold on to your stethoscope, because license renewal time is coming! Now, before you break into a cold sweat and dust off your highlighters, this isn't your average back-to-school drill. It's about staying sharp, up-to-date, and proving you're the Nightingale everyone needs.
 |
| How Many Ceus Do Washington Rns Need |
The CE Breakdown: How Many Hours Do You Need, Dude?
Here's the skinny: Washington RNs gotta snag 8 hours of Continuing Education (CE) credits every year to keep their licenses sparkling. That's like, two long movies (or eight episodes of your favorite medical drama, because hey, research!).
Bonus Round: Health Equity Training! Starting in 2026, you'll also need to squeeze in 2 hours of health equity training every renewal period. This means learning how to provide the best care to everyone, regardless of background.
Tip: Don’t skim past key examples.
But Wait, There's More (for Advanced Practice Nurses): If you're an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), you've got a slightly different game. You need a whopping 30 hours of CE every two years, with a focus on your specific area of expertise. Plus, if you're prescribing meds, you'll need an extra 15 pharmacology hours. Basically, you're the Michael Jordan of nursing, so the training needs to match!
Important Note: These are just the CE basics. Be sure to check the Washington State Board of Nursing website (https://nursing.wa.gov/licensing/maintain-license/continuing-competency) for the latest info and any specialty requirements.
Tip: Don’t overthink — just keep reading.
Avoiding the CE Scramble: Keeping Your License Renewal Smooth Like Butter
Let's face it, nobody wants to be scrambling for CE credits at the last minute. Here's how to be a CE pro:
- Plan Ahead: Pick out your CE courses early on. There are tons of online options these days, so you can learn from the comfort of your couch (in your PJs, if you prefer).
- Find Your Niche: Choose courses that interest you and keep your skills sharp. Want to learn about the latest diabetes treatments? Go for it!
- Spread it Out: Don't try to cram all your CE hours into one weekend. Space them out throughout the year to avoid burnout (and information overload).
Remember: Keeping your CE up-to-date is an investment in your career and your patients. It's about staying at the top of your game and delivering the best possible care.
QuickTip: Pay close attention to transitions.
 |
Frequently Asked Questions (Because We Know You Have Them)
How to Find CE Courses?
- The Washington State Board of Nursing website has a list of approved providers (https://nursing.wa.gov/licensing/maintain-license/continuing-competency).
- Many nursing organizations offer CE courses, as do online platforms.
How Much Do CE Courses Cost?
Tip: A slow, careful read can save re-reading later.
- Prices vary depending on the course provider and length. Shop around to find the best deals!
Can I Use Old CE Credits?
- Nope. CE credits typically expire after a certain period, so make sure your chosen courses are within the valid timeframe.
How Do I Report My CE Hours?
- You'll report your hours electronically through the Nursys system.
How Do I Know If My CE Courses Are Approved?
- Check with the course provider to ensure they're approved by the Washington State Board of Nursing.
So there you have it, Washington RNs! Now you can conquer your CE requirements with confidence and keep your license shining brighter than a bedpan in the OR.
 |
