I’ve Just Passed My FNP Certification Exam, Now What?

Congratulations on passing the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) certification exam through American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). This is a significant milestone and a key step in the transition from student to practicing FNP.

After passing the FNP certification exam, many wonder about the next steps. How do you prepare for licensure and employment? Continue reading to learn more about navigating the professional responsibilities of the newly certified FNP.

Obtain State Licensure as an FNP

After passing your FNP certification exam, the next step is to apply for an advanced practice nurse practitioner (APRN) license in your primary state of residence or where you intend to work. This application is sent to the State Board of Nursing, and you must also hold a current/active registered nurse (RN).

During this process, you must show proof of graduation from an accredited FNP program, the FNP board certification results, consent to a background check, fingerprints, and any other documents that the state you are licensing in may require. This process may also be associated with processing fees, so be prepared to contact your state board of nursing for additional information.

Find Employment

Now, it is time to find a job. First, you must update your resume to include your graduation from an FNP program and the fact that you are a board-certified FNP. You can also update your information on LinkedIn, professional nursing organization websites, and job boards like Indeed. Next, you must determine your desired practice setting, such as a clinic, hospital, or urgent care, and the population you wish to serve. Once you know the type of job you seek as an FNP, research potential employers and submit applications.

Start Practicing as an FNP

Once you have a job, you officially start your practice as an FNP! This is an exciting time, yet it can be overwhelming as well. Be sure to review the scope of practice laws in your state of practice to ensure you are compliant and understand your role and responsibilities in delivering patient care.

As a new graduate FNP, continuing to learn and grow your skills and knowledge through mentorship opportunities with experienced FNPs and participation in professional development activities, including webinars, conferences, and workshops, is essential. Online resources, such as UpToDate, can ensure you use the most up-to-date evidence-based practices.

Maintain Professional Development, Certifications, and Licensure

Whether your certification is through the AANP or the ANCC, you must renew every five years, and the renewal of your RN and APRN state license is every two years. Fortunately, in most states, you can use the continuing education completed to maintain certification to renew your state licenses.

The AANP and ANCC have specifics regarding the type of continuing education needed every five years. For example, the AANP requires 100 hours of continuing education, with 25 hours in pharmacology. Due to the number of hours required, it is important not to procrastinate and have a method to keep track of continuing education completed.

Attending networking events, conferences, and webinars can earn you continuing education credits. Joining professional organizations, such as the AANP or your state NP associations, will also provide opportunities for continuing education. It is important to complete credits in topics that interest you and apply to your daily practice.

Enjoy your new career as an FNP. It is essential to keep growing and adapting. Medicine is dynamic and everchanging, so continuing your education and using resources to ensure up-to-date practices are utilized is critical. Be proud of the accomplishments you have achieved and your ongoing contribution to the healthcare system.

Author
Recent Posts

Kasee Wiesen

Kasee Wiesen, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, is a Family Nurse Practitioner and freelance writer. She has a passion for education at the bedside and in the classroom and has been a nurse educator for more than ten years.