At the start of this page, you’ll find a button that offers full access to the Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) practice test. Right below that, there’s an opportunity to engage with a comprehensive practice test aimed at thorough review. These tests serve as crucial tools for demonstrating your skills, pinpointing areas for improvement, and refining your study strategy.
To enhance your preparation further, particularly in topics that require additional attention, we’ve developed specialized quizzes. These quizzes are carefully crafted to focus on particular aspects of the CEN exam, ensuring a targeted and efficient study experience.
Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Domain Exams
The Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) examination is a comprehensive test designed to certify nurses who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and abilities essential for the practice of emergency nursing. The exam is structured around several core domains that reflect the challenges and competencies required in the emergency department.
Below, I’ll break down these domains:
Domain 1: Cardiovascular Emergencies
- Percentage of Exam: 20%
- Focus Areas: Assessment and management of patients with acute coronary syndromes, shock states, and other cardiovascular conditions.
Domain 2: Respiratory Emergencies
- Percentage of Exam: 16%
- Focus Areas: Management of patients with airway obstruction, respiratory infections, pulmonary embolism, and other respiratory conditions.
Domain 3: Neurological Emergencies
- Percentage of Exam: 16%
- Focus Areas: Care of patients with strokes, seizures, headaches, and other neurological emergencies.
Domain 4: Gastrointestinal, Genitourinary, Gynecology, and Obstetrical Emergencies
- Percentage of Exam: 21%
- Focus Areas: Management of emergencies related to the gastrointestinal tract, renal system, and reproductive system including pregnancy-related emergencies.
Domain 5: Psychosocial and Medical Emergencies
- Percentage of Exam: 25%
- Focus Areas: Addressing psychiatric emergencies, abuse, and medical emergencies not covered in other sections.
Domain 6: Maxillofacial, Ocular, Orthopedic and WoundEmergencies
- Percentage of Exam: 21%
- Focus Areas: Treatment of injuries and emergencies related to the face, eyes, musculoskeletal system, and wounds.
Domain 7: Environment and Toxicology Emergencies, and Communicable Diseases
- Percentage of Exam: 15%
- Focus Areas: Management of poisoning, overdoses, bites, stings, communicable diseases, and environmental emergencies.
Domain 8: Professional Issues
- Percentage of Exam: 16%
- Focus Areas: Legal and ethical considerations, evidence-based practice, patient safety, and other professional issues relevant to emergency nursing.
| Exam Domain | % of Exam | Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Cardiovascular Emergencies | 20% | Assessment and management of patients with acute coronary syndromes, shock states, and other cardiovascular conditions. |
| Respiratory Emergencies | 16% | Management of patients with airway obstruction, respiratory infections, pulmonary embolism, and other respiratory conditions. |
| Neurological Emergencies | 16% | Care of patients with strokes, seizures, headaches, and other neurological emergencies. |
| Gastrointestinal, Genitourinary, Gynecology, and Obstetrical Emergencies | 21% | Management of emergencies related to the gastrointestinal tract, renal system, and reproductive system including pregnancy-related emergencies. |
| Psychosocial and Medical Emergencies | 25% | Addressing psychiatric emergencies, abuse, and medical emergencies not covered in other sections. |
| Maxillofacial, Ocular, Orthopedic, and Wound Emergencies | 21% | Treatment of injuries and emergencies related to the face, eyes, musculoskeletal system, and wounds. |
| Environment and Toxicology Emergencies, and Communicable Diseases | 15% | Management of poisoning, overdoses, bites, stings, communicable diseases, and environmental emergencies. |
| Professional Issues | 16% | Legal and ethical considerations, evidence-based practice, patient safety, and other professional issues relevant to emergency nursing. |
Other Important Information
- Total Number of Questions: The CEN exam consists of 175 questions, of which 150 are scored and 25 are unscored pretest questions.
- Exam Duration: Candidates have 3 hours to complete the exam.
- Preparation Resources: It’s vital to review the official ENA (Emergency Nurses Association) guidelines, participate in review courses, and utilize practice tests. Specific textbooks, online courses, and peer study groups can also be invaluable resources.
- Certification Period: The CEN certification is valid for four years, after which recertification is required either through continuing education or by re-examination.
Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Exam Breakdown
The Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) exam is a specialized certification for nurses who wish to demonstrate their expertise in the field of emergency nursing. Administered by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing (BCEN), the CEN certification is designed to validate a nurse’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in emergency care beyond the basic RN licensure.
Breakdown of the CEN Exam:
- Content Areas: The CEN exam covers a wide range of topics that are essential for effective emergency nursing. These areas include but are not limited to:
- Cardiovascular emergencies
- Respiratory emergencies
- Neurological emergencies
- Gastrointestinal, genitourinary, gynecology, and obstetrical emergencies
- Psychosocial and medical emergencies
- Maxillofacial, ocular, orthopedic, and wound emergencies
- Environment and toxicology emergencies
- Shock and multisystem trauma
- Professional issues related to emergency nursing
- Format: The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions, of which 150 are scored and 25 are pretest questions that are not scored. Candidates have three hours to complete the exam.
- Eligibility: To sit for the CEN exam, candidates must hold a current, unrestricted RN license in the United States or its Territories. Although there are no specific clinical practice requirements, it’s recommended that candidates have at least two years of experience in emergency nursing.
- Preparation Resources: There are several resources available for nurses preparing for the CEN exam:
- BCEN’s Official Website: Provides comprehensive information about the exam, including the Candidate Handbook, exam content outline, eligibility criteria, and application process. BCEN Official Website
- Review Courses: Many organizations and educational institutions offer review courses designed to prepare nurses for the CEN exam. These courses may be offered online or in person.
- Practice Tests: Practice tests can help candidates familiarize themselves with the format of the exam and the types of questions asked. BCEN offers practice exams on their website.
- Study Guides and Books: There are several study guides and books available that are specifically designed to help candidates prepare for the CEN exam. These resources often include comprehensive reviews of the content areas, practice questions, and test-taking strategies.
- Peer Study Groups: Joining a study group with fellow nurses who are also preparing for the CEN exam can provide support, resources, and motivation.
- Certification Period: The CEN certification is valid for four years. To maintain the certification, nurses must meet the renewal requirements set by BCEN, which can include continuing education, retaking the exam, or a combination of both.
- Benefits of CEN Certification: Earning the CEN certification can lead to increased recognition, career advancement opportunities, and potentially higher salaries. It demonstrates a commitment to the profession and a high level of expertise in emergency nursing.
How to Become CEN Certified
Becoming a Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) involves a series of steps designed to ensure you possess the knowledge and skills necessary for emergency nursing. The Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing (BCEN) outlines the certification process which includes eligibility verification, application submission, exam preparation, and finally, taking and passing the CEN exam.
Here’s a brief overview of the steps to becoming CEN certified:
- Set Up Your BCEN Account: First-time users need to create an account on the BCEN website. If you’re returning, simply log in with your existing credentials.
- Check Your Eligibility: You must hold a current, unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license in the United States, a US Territory, Canada, Australia, or have an equivalent RN license. While it’s recommended to have at least two years of experience in emergency nursing, it’s not a mandatory requirement.
- Fill Out Your Application: Through your BCEN Account, you’ll access the application form for the CEN certification.
- Submit Application & Pay: You’ll need to pay the exam fee via credit card, company check, or ECheck/ACH. Immediate processing is available for electronic payments.
- Get Approved: After processing your application and payment, BCEN will send you an exam eligibility email, which includes important information about your 90-day test window and how to schedule your exam.
- Schedule Your Exam: You can choose to take the exam at a testing center or through Live Remote Proctoring. It’s crucial to schedule your exam within your eligibility period.
- Prepare For Your Exam: BCEN offers a range of study materials and practice exams to help you prepare. Allocating time daily for exam prep is recommended.
- Take the Exam: Arrive at your chosen testing location or log in for Live Remote Proctoring 30 minutes before your scheduled exam time with a valid form of identification.
- Get Your Results: Your score will be displayed immediately upon completion of the exam. You’ll also receive an email with your score report.
In case of an unsuccessful attempt, you will receive guidance from BCEN on reapplying for future exams.
For detailed information on each step, including eligibility criteria, exam fees, discounts, study materials, and more, visit the official BCEN website sections on the certification process, eligibility, CEN exam fees & discounts, and study and prepare for the CEN exam.
Our Experience Teaching CEN Candidates To Pass The Exam
At Career Employer, the creation of our Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) practice tests has been an extraordinary journey, filled with both accomplishments and hurdles. We were driven by the diverse range of topics encompassed by the exam, aiming to meet the distinct needs of our learners.
Our approach has been meticulously developed to guarantee that each student is thoroughly prepared to succeed in the exam. Our dedication to offering an all-encompassing educational experience is evident in the extensive coverage and careful attention to detail in our practice materials, underscoring our commitment to the success of our students.
Teaching the Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) certification from a lecturer’s perspective involves a complex, rewarding process that requires a deep understanding of emergency nursing principles, as well as the ability to effectively convey this knowledge to nurses aiming to elevate their professional qualifications. Here’s an overview of this perspective, focusing on key areas such as curriculum development, teaching methodologies, and resource utilization.
Curriculum Development
Developing a curriculum for the CEN certification involves identifying the core competencies required for emergency nursing. This includes understanding the Body of Knowledge outlined by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing (BCEN), which covers areas such as trauma, cardiology, orthopedics, neurology, and pediatrics, among others. Lecturers must stay updated with the latest in clinical practice guidelines, emergency procedures, and emerging trends in emergency care to ensure the curriculum remains relevant and comprehensive.
Teaching Methodologies
Lecturers must employ diverse teaching methodologies to cater to various learning styles. This includes lectures, hands-on simulations, case studies, and group discussions. The use of simulation labs is particularly crucial in emergency nursing education, as it allows students to practice clinical skills in a controlled, realistic environment, thereby enhancing their decision-making and critical thinking skills. Incorporating technology, such as virtual reality and online learning platforms, can also enhance the learning experience, providing flexibility and access to a wealth of resources.
Resource Utilization
A variety of resources are essential to support the teaching and learning process:
- Textbooks and Journals: Essential texts like “Sheehy’s Manual of Emergency Care” and access to journals such as the Journal of Emergency Nursing provide foundational knowledge and insights into current practices and research.
- Online Resources: Platforms such as the Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) offer courses, webinars, and a plethora of resources tailored to emergency nursing education. The BCEN website also provides study materials, practice exams, and detailed information about the CEN exam itself.
- Professional Networks: Encouraging students to engage with professional organizations and networks can provide additional learning opportunities and insights into the profession.
- Peer Learning: Facilitating study groups and peer learning sessions can be beneficial for students to share knowledge, discuss complex scenarios, and develop collaborative skills important in emergency settings.
Challenges and Solutions
Teaching CEN certification courses comes with its set of challenges, such as keeping up with rapid advancements in emergency care and addressing the diverse learning needs of students. Lecturers must be committed to continuous learning and adaptability. Furthermore, fostering a supportive learning environment that encourages questions, critical thinking, and practical application is crucial for student success.
At Career Employer, our Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) certification practice tests are the culmination of efforts by a devoted team of experts, each contributing a rich background and extensive expertise in preparing candidates for the Certified CEN exam. Their profound knowledge has paved the way for over 1000 emergency nurses to secure their CEN certifications, with a tailored focus on the specific requirements of medical assistants.
Our team is composed of seasoned professionals, each boasting over a decade of specialized experience in emergency nursing. This ensures that our practice materials are not just created by leading experts in the field but are also highly effective in preparing candidates for success in their certification endeavors. This commitment to excellence ensures that users of our materials are well-equipped and thoroughly prepared to meet their certification goals with confidence.
Effective Study Strategies and Methods
To effectively prepare for the Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) exam, leveraging a combination of resources and study strategies tailored to the unique demands of emergency nursing certification is crucial. Here’s a concise guide based on the most helpful web pages and online forums.
Key Resources and Study Guides:
- BCEN’s Official Resources: The Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing (BCEN) offers a wealth of study materials directly aimed at the CEN exam, including a preparation checklist, content outline, sample questions, and a comprehensive reference list. These resources are designed to guide candidates from the initial application through to scheduling and taking the exam. BCEN also provides a practice exam and an online review course to simulate the testing environment and cover essential topics in emergency nursing.
- Mometrix University CEN Study Guide: This guide stands out for its blend of video content, text-based guides, flashcards, and a substantial number of practice questions. Mometrix is particularly noted for its detailed content depictions and outline format that facilitates easier understanding of complex topics. The platform accommodates various learning styles by offering visual aids, reading materials, practice tests, and progress tracking. It promises a balanced and comprehensive preparation experience, with satisfaction guaranteed or the option for a refund within the first week.
- Review Courses: Several courses have been highlighted for their effectiveness in preparing candidates for the CEN exam. For instance:
- The Dooey CEN Review Course is praised for its extensive resources, expert guidance, and flexibility in learning options.
- Solheim Enterprises offers a video-focused study guide with insights and examples pertinent to emergency nursing. Its courses are renowned for engaging content delivered through high-quality video lectures.
- The Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) provides interactive modules, downloadable study notes, and practice tests, with a focus on networking opportunities and career advancement.
Study Strategies:
- Customize Your Approach: Tailor your study plan to fit your learning style, whether you learn best visually, through reading, repetition, or practice. Utilize resources like videos, flashcards, and practice questions to cover all aspects of the exam content.
- Practice, Practice, Practice: Make the most of the practice exams and questions available through these resources. Simulating the exam environment can significantly enhance your test-taking readiness.
- Engage with Online Forums and Communities: Platforms such as the Emergency Nurses Association offer opportunities for networking and learning from peers who are also preparing for the CEN exam. Engaging in discussions and study groups can provide additional insights and moral support.
By integrating these resources and strategies into your study plan, you’re setting a solid foundation for success on the CEN exam. While each candidate’s preparation journey will be unique, starting with a comprehensive understanding of the exam content and structure, supported by high-quality study materials and an adaptive study strategy, will significantly enhance your chances of achieving certification.
Cost
| Item | Cost (Non-Member/Member/Military) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Exam | USD 380 / USD 285 / USD 195 | Retest Cost: USD 200 |
| BCEN Test Assurance | USD 450 / USD 355 / USD 265 | Allows a second attempt within a year |
| MedEdSeminars CEN Exam Review | USD 169 | 1-year access |
| ENA’s CEN Online Review Course | USD 160 / USD 200 | 15 contact hours |
| Mometrix Online CEN® Prep Course | Varies | 1200+ practice questions |
The cost of obtaining the Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) board certification varies depending on several factors, including exam fees, study materials, and review courses. Here’s a breakdown based on the most relevant sources:
Exam Fees
- Initial Exam Cost: USD 380 for non-members, USD 285 for ENA (Emergency Nurses Association) members, and USD 195 for military discounts.
- Retest Cost: USD 200 for those needing to take the exam again.
- BCEN Test Assurance: An additional option costing USD 450 for non-members, USD 355 for ENA members, and USD 265 with military discount, which allows a second attempt at the exam if the first attempt is unsuccessful within a year.
Study and Training Costs
- CEN Exam Review Course by MedEdSeminars: This course, taught by Jeff Solheim, MSN, RN, CEN, CFRN, FAEN, TCRN, costs USD 169 and provides access for an entire year. It includes 11 modules with PowerPoint presentations, handouts, and short tests.
- ENA’s CEN Online Review Course: Offered by the Emergency Nurses Association, this comprehensive review course costs USD 160 for members and USD 200 for non-members. It includes 12 interactive modules with guided videos, over 200 pages of downloadable review handouts, and practice tests.
- Mometrix Online CEN® Prep Course: Provides a detailed course with 1200+ practice questions, lesson reviews, and test-taking strategies. Although the exact price wasn’t mentioned, the course offers a structured study plan and a guarantee with a 7-day money-back policy.
Additional Resources
There are also various books and manuals available for purchase that can aid in study preparation. Prices for these materials can vary widely depending on the publisher and where you purchase them from.
Summary
In total, the cost to prepare and take the CEN exam can range significantly based on the study materials you choose, whether you opt for exam assurance, and if you qualify for any discounts. It’s also important to factor in the potential cost of retaking the exam if necessary. Considering these expenses is crucial for anyone planning to pursue the CEN certification, as it represents a significant investment in your professional development and career in emergency nursing.
Reliable Study Materials and Resources
To prepare for the Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) certification exam, several high-quality resources are available online that cater to different learning styles and needs:
- Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing (BCEN) offers various study resources, including a comprehensive review course called “Essentials of Emergency Nursing.” This course is designed to align with the CEN exam content outline and does not offer an unfair advantage since it was created independently of the CEN certification exam development. More details can be found on BCEN’s website.
- Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) provides the “CEN Online Review Course,” which includes 12 interactive modules with guided videos, over 200 pages of downloadable review handouts, and a test preparation strategy module. This course aims to cover all topics relevant to the CEN exam, developed by practicing certified emergency nurses, ensuring a broad and in-depth preparation material.
- Pocket Prep’s BCEN CEN® Exam Prep features 1,000 study questions with detailed explanations and a high user satisfaction rating. This app identifies your weak spots and offers various quiz types to enhance your learning, including a mock exam to simulate the test day experience.
- Rosh Review offers a CEN Certification Exam Qbank with 500 board-style questions, detailed explanations, and teaching images. It also provides personal analytics to track your progress and identify areas for improvement, helping you focus your study efforts more efficiently.
- Mometrix’s Online CEN® Prep Course covers a wide range of topics, including cardiovascular and respiratory emergencies, neurological emergencies, gastrointestinal, genitourinary, gynecology, and obstetrical emergencies, as well as mental health and medical emergencies. This course offers in-depth content with specific lessons on various emergency nursing topics.
These resources offer a mix of paid and free options, with a variety of formats from self-paced online courses to interactive Qbanks and apps, catering to different learning preferences. It’s a good idea to explore each option to find the best fit for your study habits and areas of focus.
Tips for Exam Day
For those preparing for the Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) exam, here are some tips and resources gleaned from various sources to help you on exam day:
- Use a Question Bank (Qbank): A Qbank is a database of multiple-choice questions designed to simulate the format and content of the CEN exam. The Rosh Review Qbank, for example, includes detailed explanations with every question, helping you understand why an answer is correct or incorrect, which can be a powerful tool in identifying your weak areas (known as “unknown unknowns”). Through consistent use, you can uncover most of your blind spots in the exam topics.
- Review Courses and Study Materials: Consider signing up for review courses that might even offer Continuing Education Units (CEUs). Some hospitals might offer these courses, or you can find them online. The ENA’s CEN Online Review Course and Mark Boswell’s videos have been recommended by nurses who have passed the exam. The BCEN practice tests are also highly recommended as they closely mimic the real exam’s format, giving you a solid idea of what to expect.
- On the Day of the Exam: Arrive at the exam center early to allow yourself time to settle in. Make sure to bring two valid forms of ID. During the exam, focus on the questions at hand, and remember the test-taking strategies you’ve learned during your preparation. It’s also important to manage your time effectively, ensuring you have enough time to thoughtfully consider each question.
- After the Exam: If you find that you did not pass the CEN exam, don’t be discouraged. Assess the areas where you need improvement and consider adjusting your study plan. Many resources offer extended subscriptions or additional support to help you pass on your next attempt.
- Practice, Practice, Practice: The more practice questions you do, the better. This not only helps you become familiar with the exam format but also helps reinforce the content knowledge. Be sure to review the rationales for each question, as understanding why an answer is correct or incorrect is key to mastering the content.
Remember, the goal of the CEN exam is to assess your knowledge and skills in emergency nursing. By systematically addressing your weak areas, practicing with questions that mimic the real exam, and utilizing review courses and materials, you can increase your chances of passing the CEN exam.
Post-Exam: Next Steps
After completing the Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) exam, there are several post-exam strategies and next steps you can take to further enhance your skills and career in emergency nursing.
Engage with Comprehensive Review Courses:
- Consider enrolling in specialized review courses like the one offered by Dooey, which includes:
- 350 flashcards to master key concepts.
- Over 1,000 practice questions covering a wide spectrum of emergency nursing topics.
- 5 full-length practice tests to assess readiness and simulate the exam experience.
- 180 comprehensive lessons covering the entire CEN exam curriculum.
- 12 months of access for flexible learning at your own pace.
Reflect on Your Exam Experience:
- Use tools like the Post-Exam Reflection Worksheet provided by The Learning Center at Washington University to:
- Reflect on your study and test-taking strategies.
- Identify areas for improvement and reinforce strengths.
- View exams as part of an ongoing learning process to build on your knowledge and skills.
Explore Educational Resources and Courses:
- Look into resources available through ENA University, which offers:
- A dynamic learning platform for all stages of your emergency nursing career.
- Access to industry partner education and evidence-based emergency nursing resources.
- Courses and materials designed to enhance professional development.
By following these strategies, you can maximize your learning and professional growth in emergency nursing post-exam.
References
- “Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing.” BCEN, https://bcen.org/cen/.
- “Certification Process | CEN.” BCEN, https://bcen.org/cen/the-certification-process/.
- “Emergency Nurses Association (ENA).” ENA, https://www.ena.org/.
- “Study and Prepare for the CEN Exam.” BCEN, https://bcen.org/cen/study-and-prepare/.
- “Best CEN Study Guides.” Crush the USMLE Exam, https://crushtheusmleexam.com/best-cen-study-guides/.
- “CEN Exam – Study Guide.” Mometrix University, https://www.mometrix.com/university/cen.
- “Certification Cost | CEN.” BCEN, https://bcen.org/cen/cost/.
- “How to Study for the CEN.” BossRN, https://bossrn.com/how-to-study-for-the-cen/.
- “ENA’s CEN Online Review Course.” Emergency Nurses Association University, https://enau.ena.org/Listing/ENA-s-CEN-Online-Review-Course-874.
- “CEN Review Course.” BCEN, https://bcen.org/cen-review-course/.
- “BCEN CEN Exam.” Pocket Prep, https://www.pocketprep.com/exams/bcen-cen/.
- “CEN Exam.” Rosh Review, https://www.roshreview.com/cen/.
- “Top 15 Questions About the Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Exam – QBanks.” Rosh Review, https://www.roshreview.com/blog/top-15-questions-about-the-certified-emergency-nurse-cen-exam-qbanks/.
- “CEN Study Tips.” AllNurses, https://allnurses.com/cen-study-tips-t658183/.
- “How to Increase Your Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Exam Score.” Rosh Review, https://www.roshreview.com/blog/how-to-increase-your-certified-emergency-nurse-cen-exam-score/.
- “CEN Exam in 7 Days.” Reddit, https://www.reddit.com/r/nursing/comments/13kjys2/cen_exam_in_7_days/.
- “CEN Review Course.” Dooey, https://dooey.org/product/cen-review-course/.
- “Post-Exam Reflection Worksheet.” Washington University in St. Louis, https://ctl.wustl.edu/learningcenter/resources/post-exam-reflection-worksheet/.
- Emergency Nurses Association University, https://enau.ena.org/Listing/66d29c4c-e32a-416a-a196-5b60b49413c8.
- “Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Exam.” YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sOMI2JB-wLs&pp=ygUkY2VydGlmaWVkIGVtZXJnZW5jeSBudXJzZSAoY2VuKSBleGFt.
- “CEN Nurses.” Reddit, https://www.reddit.com/r/EmergencyRoom/comments/v1g7h4/cen_nurses/.
- YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j0WB2LLchu8.
