CE Hours: The Nurse's Never-Ending Quest
So, you're a nurse in Texas, huh? Welcome to the wonderful world of continuing education (CE) hours. A world filled with endless webinars, online courses, and the constant dread of renewal deadlines. Let's dive into the nitty-gritty.
The Magic Number: 20
Let's get this out of the way: you need 20 contact hours every two years to renew your RN license in Texas. That's right, twenty whole hours of learning about things you probably already know. It's like your brain is a sponge and the Texas Board of Nursing is constantly wringing it out.
More Than Just a Number
But wait, there's more! It's not just about racking up the hours. You also need to cover specific topics. Geriatric care? Check. Human trafficking? Yep, that too. It's like the Board of Nursing is trying to turn you into a super nurse who can diagnose a broken hip, rescue a kidnapped victim, and still manage to pass out medication on time.
How to Survive the CE Grind
Okay, so you know the drill. But how do you actually get through those 20 hours without losing your mind? Here are a few tips:
- Embrace the Online World: There are tons of online courses and webinars out there. You can even earn CE credits while binge-watching your favorite shows (okay, maybe not, but it's a nice thought).
- Find Your Niche: Choose topics that interest you. If you love geriatrics, take all the geriatrics courses. If you're a med-surg guru, dive into those courses.
- Network with Other Nurses: Swap CE recommendations, study together, and commiserate about the whole thing.
- Don't Procrastinate: We all know how that ends. Start early and spread out your CE hours.
FAQ: CE Hour Quick Tips
- How to find approved CE providers? The Texas Board of Nursing website has a list of approved providers.
- How to track my CE hours? Use a spreadsheet or a dedicated CE tracking app.
- How to make CE fun? Find topics you're passionate about, study with friends, and reward yourself for completing courses.
- How to avoid CE burnout? Take breaks, mix up your course formats, and remember why you're doing this: to be a better nurse!
- How to stay motivated? Set realistic goals, break down the CE requirements into smaller chunks, and remind yourself of the importance of continuing education.
Remember, CE hours might seem like a pain, but they're essential for maintaining your nursing license and staying up-to-date in your field. So, embrace the challenge, learn something new, and keep those patients safe!
Disclaimer: This post is intended for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Please consult the Texas Board of Nursing for official CE requirements.