The Benefits of the Pediatric Nursing Certification (CPN/PED-BC)

Overview of the PED-BC Certification 

Pediatric nursing is a specialized field that requires not only compassion and adaptability but also a deep understanding of the unique healthcare needs of infants, children, and adolescents. For registered nurses looking to showcase their expertise and commitment to this field, obtaining a pediatric nursing certification is an excellent professional milestone.  

The two most recognized credentials are the Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN®), offered by the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB), and the Pediatric Nursing Certification (PED-BC™), provided by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). 

Both certifications serve as formal recognition of a nurse’s advanced knowledge and clinical experience in pediatric nursing. They also enhance credibility, open up new career opportunities, and can lead to increased confidence in clinical decision-making. While both credentials are respected across healthcare settings, each has distinct eligibility requirements and pathways. 

Eligibility requirements 

To be eligible for the CPN® certification, candidates must hold a current, active RN license in the United States, Canada, or a U.S. territory. They must also have completed either 1,800 hours of pediatric clinical practice within the past 24 months or, alternatively, 3,000 hours over the past five years with at least 1,000 of those hours within the most recent 24-month period. 

The PED-BC™ certification requires applicants to have at least two years of full-time practice as a registered nurse, a minimum of 2,000 hours in pediatric nursing within the last three years, and 30 hours of continuing education in pediatric topics during that same timeframe. 

Exam details 

Both certification exams assess core competencies in pediatric care.  

The CPN® exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions, 150 of which are scored, and must be completed within a 3-hour window. It covers areas such as health promotion, management of illness, disease prevention, and the professional role of pediatric nurses. 

The PED-BC™ exam includes 150 questions (125 scored and 25 pretest items), with a 3.5-hour time limit, and tests knowledge in assessment and diagnosis, planning and implementation, evaluation, and broader professional practice. 

Application and renewal 

The application process for either certification is completed online through the respective credentialing body’s website. Nurses must submit verification of licensure and clinical hours, and pay an examination fee, which typically ranges from $300 to $400. Discounted fees may be available to members of affiliated professional organizations. 

The CPN® credential is renewed every three years through a combination of clinical practice, continuing education, and possibly re-examination. The PED-BC™ credential must be renewed every five years and includes completing 75 continuing education hours, of which at least 25 must be in pharmacology, along with evidence of continued professional development and clinical practice. 

Study Guide Tips for the PED-BC™ Exam 

Success on the PED-BC™ exam requires a comprehensive understanding of pediatric nursing principles and the ability to apply them in diverse clinical scenarios. Here are some focused study strategies to help you prepare: 

• Review the Test Content Outline from ANCC to understand the major domains and subcategories that will be tested. 
• Use reputable review books and evidence-based guidelines in pediatric care, especially those that emphasize patient safety, family-centered care, and health promotion. 
• Join a study group to discuss case studies, quiz each other, and reinforce key concepts in a collaborative setting. 
• Set a consistent study schedule, allocating more time to weaker areas and integrating breaks to maintain focus and retention. 
• Take full-length practice exams under timed conditions to build test-taking stamina and identify areas needing improvement. 
• Focus on pharmacology, as 25 of the required 75 CE hours for renewal are pharmacology-specific and medication knowledge is essential to pediatric care. 

Recommended resources 

One highly recommended resource is the self-paced review course offered by Nurse.com: 
Pediatric Nursing CPN/PED-BC Certification Review (Self-Paced) 

This course is designed to align with both exams and includes interactive modules, real-world scenarios, and practice questions, all accessible at your convenience. It’s an ideal way to prepare thoroughly while balancing a demanding work schedule.