As a registered nurse (RN), you already hold a position of respect, influence, and significance in the medical community. You are on the front lines of patient care, providing critical services that make a difference in people’s lives every day. But what if there’s a way to expand your skills, increase your career options, and even enhance your income potential?
One opportunity to consider is becoming a Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing (BCEN) Certified Transport Registered Nurse (CTRN).
Understanding the CTRN Certification
The BCEN CTRN certification is a specialized credential for nurses who transport patients across the healthcare continuum. It includes patient transport by air and ground, which may be across different medical facilities or from emergency scenes to hospitals. The certification confirms that you possess the in-depth knowledge, skillset, and confidence to deliver exceptional care during these critical transports.
Why Get Certified as a CTRN?
- Specialized Knowledge: As a CTRN, you’ll receive specialized training in various aspects of patient transport, including aviation and surface transport safety, patient assessment and stabilization, and management of environmental and transport stressors. This knowledge will be indispensable in your role as a transport nurse and could mean the difference between life and death for patients in critical conditions.
- Enhanced Employability: The CTRN certification can significantly enhance your employability. Due to their proven competency in this field, many healthcare facilities and emergency medical services prefer or require CTRN-certified nurses for their transport teams. The certification could open doors to previously unavailable jobs and help you secure a more favorable position within your organization.
- Higher Earning Potential: With advanced certification, nurses often find they’re eligible for higher pay rates. As an RN, becoming a CTRN may increase your salary, as it proves your dedication to continued learning and specialized skills. According to PayScale, CTRN-certified nurses earn an average of 5-10% more than their non-certified counterparts.
- Professional Credibility: BCEN certifications are highly respected in the medical community. Earning your CTRN certification lends credibility to your professional profile and demonstrates your commitment to providing high-quality patient care during medical transport.
- Continuing Education: Certification requires ongoing education to maintain your status, encouraging lifelong learning. This continuous learning will help you stay updated on the latest practices and procedures in patient transport and make you a valuable resource for your peers and junior nurses.
How to Become a CTRN
Becoming a CTRN requires commitment, dedication, and a passion for providing top-notch patient care. To qualify, you must:
- Be an RN with at least two years of experience in critical care or emergency nursing
- Pass the CTRN certification exam, which covers various aspects of transport nursing. The BCEN offers numerous resources, including study materials and practice exams, to help you prepare.
As a nurse, you have already proven your dedication to the well-being of others. By becoming a BCEN Certified Transport Registered Nurse, you can expand your capacity to provide critical care, increase your job opportunities, and enhance your earning potential.
