The medical field is more competitive than it seems, especially when everyone aims to boost their credentials. The question is, how do you showcase them?
It’s important to know how to list nursing credentials to bring in effective outcomes. Moreover, it makes you appear more reliable as a professional.
So, here’s a quick guide on how to display them and a few more helpful tips!
Why You Should Display Nursing Credentials
Before you get started, you might wonder, should you display your nursing credentials? While they add to your expertise, it usually only comes into play once you let others know about it.
Here are a few reasons to keep in mind:
Showcases Your Expertise at a Glance
It’s important for people to know your qualifications and skills as a medical professional. Listing your nursing credentials is one way to give them the gist at a glance.
This way, they can determine your level of expertise without having to go through all your papers and certifications. Moreover, it lets them know your specific practice.
Presents Achievements
Your nursing credentials let you present your achievements in the field without going overboard. Through this, you can prove your value as a professional, all the while feeling more confident about where you are.
It’s a great way to show other people how dedicated you are to your profession. At the same time, you can use it to let them know your participation in different activities related to your field.
Makes Employment Easier
Listing your nursing credentials makes it easier for employers to secure you a position that fits your expertise. Moreover, you can be placed at a higher rank among other applicants, depending on how much you have to offer.
When you list them correctly, employers can easily review your details without going through your entire resume. It’s also convenient for them when it comes to processing your application and renewing your license.
Confirms Professionalism
Having a list of your nursing credentials creates an accurate picture of who you are as a professional, especially to other people. This way, you can open yourself to bigger opportunities in the field.
Moreover, patients and clients can feel at ease knowing you meet specific standards of your practice. So, they are likely to rely on and trust in you more.
Boosts Potential Income
You can potentially increase your income when you display your credentials the right way. It’s because your certifications and licenses add to your credibility and skill level. So, employers tend to base your pay on this.
Fulfills Legal Necessities
It’s vital to display your nursing credentials on medical documents and forms due to legal needs. It serves as a sign that you are licensed to perform specific duties and tasks for the practice.
How to List Nursing Credentials in the Right Order
When it comes to listing nursing credentials, you must follow the standard format, which most healthcare facilities and professionals recognize. According to the American Nurses Credentialing Center, the list should be based on the following order:
- Degree: This refers to your highest earned degree from a university or institution. Be sure you only write it as an abbreviation.
- License: This is a requirement of being a nurse since it confirms your practice is legal and you meet the given standards.
- State Designation: This is similar to a license but refers to advanced practices you can perform specifically in the state you’re from or registered in.
- National Certification: These are titles awarded to nurses according to their practice or expertise, usually from organizations.
- Awards and Honors: Keep in mind that the awards and honors you include are relevant to your nursing profession. Any recognition beyond this can still be included but put at the end of your list.
Additional Tips to Consider
Aside from knowing how to list nursing credentials the right way, there are a few more things to keep in mind when you put them on display. This includes the following:
Pick the Most Relevant
You can spend all day listing as many credentials as you want, all the way from degrees to certifications. Even so, it’s important to pick out the most relevant ones. These should also show your level as a registered nurse.
Keep in mind that no matter how many you include, it can make or break your application, especially if they all have a different focus. Try to focus on those that help you build your image as a professional with deep knowledge and skill in the practice.
Follow the Proper Format
You want to be extra sure you’re following the right format when listing your nursing credentials. Doing so helps ensure you comply with the needs of healthcare facilities.
At the same time, it helps other professionals understand your expertise quickly, mainly because the format is the standard most of them follow.
Know the Right Time
Although it’s best to list your credentials, there are instances where you don’t necessarily need to. As much as possible, pay close attention to the right time to list them. A few moments include when you write notes for medical records, sign prescriptions, or adjust patient forms and charts.
Note that the nursing credentials you include can also vary based on what’s necessary or relevant. Say if it’s for occupational documents, you need to include your license and state designation. But if it’s for testimonies or journals, you might have to follow a different format.
Consider Listing Multiple
You want to learn how to list other disciplines correctly, especially when you have multiple certifications or licenses. For some of these, you can add them according to your preference. But generally, you want to start with those related to nursing before you move to the rest.
In Closing
Learning how to list nursing credentials is a great way to showcase your level of expertise, experience, and professionalism. Not only does it help you when it comes to finding the perfect job, but it also gives other people a clear idea of your skill set and reliability when it comes to your practice.
