At the start of this page, you’ll find a button that provides full access to the Inpatient Obstetric Nursing (RNC-OB) practice test. Immediately below, access to a comprehensive practice test is available, which is perfect for a thorough review. These tests are essential for demonstrating your skills, pinpointing areas that require enhancement, and refining your study strategy.
To enhance your preparation, particularly in areas that demand additional attention, we’ve created specialized quizzes. These quizzes are carefully crafted to focus on distinct sections of the RNC-OBCEN exam, ensuring a concentrated and productive study experience.
Inpatient Obstetric Nursing (RNC-OB) Domain Exams
The Inpatient Obstetric Nursing (RNC-OB) exam is a certification offered by the National Certification Corporation (NCC) aimed at evaluating the competency of nurses in the obstetric, labor, and delivery setting. This certification is recognized as a mark of excellence in the field of obstetric nursing. The exam covers a broad range of topics within five key domains, each with its own set of topics and allocated percentage of the total questions. The exam is designed to test the nurse’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in providing care to the pregnant patient, the fetus, and the newborn.
Exam Domains and Breakdown:
Domain 1: Complications of Pregnancy
- Percentage of Exam: 29%
- Key Topics: Includes but is not limited to hypertensive disorders, diabetes, infectious diseases, and obstetric emergencies like hemorrhage.
Domain 2: Fetal Assessment
- Percentage of Exam: 18%
- Key Topics: Fetal heart rate monitoring, ultrasonography, biophysical profiles, and the interpretation of results indicating fetal distress or well-being.
Domain 3: Labor and Birth
- Percentage of Exam: 35%
- Key Topics: Labor management, pain management, induction and augmentation of labor, and immediate care of the newborn.
Domain 4: Recovery, Postpartum, and Newborn Care
- Percentage of Exam: 15%
- Key Topics: Postpartum complications, lactation support, newborn assessment and care, and family education.
Domain 5: Professional Issues
- Percentage of Exam: 3%
- Key Topics: Ethics in obstetric care, patient rights, documentation, and interprofessional collaboration.
| Exam Domain | % of Exam | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|
| Complications of Pregnancy | 29% | Hypertensive disorders, diabetes, infectious diseases, obstetric emergencies |
| Fetal Assessment | 18% | Fetal heart rate monitoring, ultrasonography, biophysical profiles |
| Labor and Birth | 35% | Labor management, pain management, induction/augmentation of labor, immediate newborn care |
| Recovery, Postpartum, and Newborn Care | 15% | Postpartum complications, lactation support, newborn assessment and care, family education |
| Professional Issues | 3% | Ethics in obstetric care, patient rights, documentation, interprofessional collaboration |
Additional Important Information
- Preparation and Resources: Candidates are encouraged to review the NCC’s official study materials and practice exams. Textbooks, peer-reviewed journals, and continuing education courses specific to obstetric nursing are also beneficial.
- Exam Format: The RNC-OB exam is usually computer-based, consisting of multiple-choice questions. The exact number of questions can vary, but candidates should prepare for a comprehensive examination that tests across all domains.
- Eligibility: Eligibility requirements typically include a current RN license and a specified amount of work experience in inpatient obstetric nursing.
- Recertification: Certification is valid for a certain period, after which nurses must recertify to demonstrate ongoing competency in the field.
Inpatient Obstetric Nursing (RNC-OB) Exam Breakdown
The Inpatient Obstetric Nursing (RNC-OB) Exam is a specialized certification exam designed for registered nurses who wish to validate their expertise in obstetric nursing, particularly within an inpatient setting. This certification is offered by the National Certification Corporation (NCC) and recognizes the knowledge and skills necessary to provide the highest quality of care for pregnant women, their newborns, and families during the antepartum, intrapartum, postpartum, and neonatal stages.
Exam Breakdown
- Eligibility: Registered Nurses with a current license in the United States or Canada. There are also requirements for work experience and educational background that need to be met.
- Content: The exam covers a wide range of topics within obstetric nursing, including but not limited to:
- Maternal factors affecting the fetus and newborn
- Fetal assessment during labor
- Labor and delivery management
- Complications of pregnancy
- Postpartum care
- Newborn care
- Format: The test is usually computer-based, consisting of multiple-choice questions. Candidates are given a specific amount of time to complete the exam.
- Preparation: Preparation resources include textbooks on obstetric nursing, online courses, and practice exams. Some organizations also offer review courses specifically designed to prepare nurses for the RNC-OB exam.
How to Become RNC-OB Certified
To become Inpatient Obstetric Nursing (RNC-OB) certified, you need to follow a series of steps, which generally involve meeting eligibility requirements, preparing for and passing the certification examination, and maintaining your certification. This certification is offered by the National Certification Corporation (NCC), a widely recognized organization for obstetric, neonatal, and women’s health nursing certifications. Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieving your RNC-OB certification:
- Meet Eligibility Requirements:
- Licensure: You must have a current, unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license in the United States or its territories.
- Experience: You need to have worked a minimum number of hours in the specialty area within the last 24 months. The specific hour requirements can vary, so it’s important to check the latest criteria on the NCC website.
- Prepare for the Examination:
- Study Materials: Utilize the study materials and resources provided by the NCC, which include detailed content outlines, reference lists, and practice tests. These materials are tailored to the specific content of the exam.
- Review Courses: Consider enrolling in review courses or workshops that focus on inpatient obstetric nursing. These can be found through professional nursing associations or continuing education providers.
- Apply for the Examination:
- Application: Complete the application process through the NCC website. This involves filling out your information, detailing your work experience, and paying the examination fee.
- Scheduling: Once your application is accepted, you’ll receive instructions on how to schedule your exam. The NCC uses computer-based testing at various locations.
- Take the Examination:
- The exam is designed to test your knowledge and skills in inpatient obstetric nursing, covering a broad range of topics relevant to the specialty.
- Maintain Your Certification:
- Continuing Education: You’ll need to engage in continuing education (CE) activities to maintain your certification. The NCC requires a specific number of CE hours in your specialty area over a three-year maintenance cycle.
- Renewal: Submit your CE achievements along with your renewal application and fee to the NCC before your certification expires.
Our Experience Teaching RNC-OB Candidates To Pass The Exam
At Career Employer, the creation of our Inpatient Obstetric Nursing (RNC-OB) practice tests has been an extraordinary journey, filled with both notable successes and formidable challenges. Driven by the wide array of topics covered in the exam, we aimed to meet the diverse needs of our learners.
We have meticulously tailored our approach to guarantee that each student is thoroughly prepared to achieve excellence in the exam. Our dedication to delivering an all-encompassing educational experience is evident in the extensive and detailed nature of our practice materials, underscoring our commitment to the success of our students.
Teaching Inpatient Obstetric Nursing, which leads to RNC-OB (Registered Nurse Certified in Inpatient Obstetrics) certification, involves guiding nurses through a comprehensive curriculum designed to enhance their knowledge and skills in obstetric nursing care. From a lecturer’s perspective, the primary goal is to prepare nurses not only to excel in patient care within the inpatient obstetric environment but also to successfully pass the RNC-OB certification exam. This certification is highly regarded and demonstrates an advanced level of knowledge and expertise in obstetrics nursing.
Curriculum Development and Teaching Strategies
- Core Content: The curriculum should cover all key areas of inpatient obstetric nursing, including prenatal care, labor and delivery, postpartum care, neonatal care, and complications in obstetrics. It’s essential to stay updated with the latest guidelines from authoritative bodies like AWHONN (Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses) and ACNM (American College of Nurse-Midwives).
- Evidence-Based Practice: Lecturers must incorporate the latest research and evidence-based practices into their teaching. This not only ensures that the nursing care provided is of the highest quality but also prepares students for the evidence-based questions on the certification exam.
- Interactive Learning: Engaging teaching methods, such as case studies, simulations, and interactive discussions, can enhance learning outcomes. These methods help students apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios, which is critical in obstetrics nursing where quick decision-making and hands-on skills are essential.
- Assessment and Feedback: Regular assessments, both formative and summative, help in monitoring progress and providing constructive feedback. Practice exams should be included to familiarize students with the format and types of questions they will encounter on the certification exam.
Resources for Lecturers and Students
- AWHONN and ACNM Guidelines: Essential for staying current with the standards of obstetric and neonatal care. Their websites offer resources, position statements, and clinical practice guidelines.
- NCC (National Certification Corporation): The organization that administers the RNC-OB certification exam. Their website provides detailed information on exam content, study materials, and practice questions.
- Simulation Labs: High-fidelity simulation labs offer invaluable hands-on experience with realistic obstetric scenarios, helping to build confidence and competence in clinical skills.
- Online Learning Platforms: Utilize online courses and webinars that focus on inpatient obstetric nursing. These can supplement classroom learning and offer flexibility for students.
- Professional Journals: Encourage students to read professional journals related to obstetrics and neonatal care. This habit helps in staying informed about new research and developments in the field.
At Career Employer, the development of our Inpatient Obstetric Nursing (RNC-OB) practice tests is the culmination of relentless effort from a team of specialists, each endowed with an abundance of knowledge and years of experience in preparing candidates for the RNC-OB examination. Their profound insight has led over a thousand obstetric nurses to success in their RNC-OB certification endeavors, with a keen emphasis on the intricate requirements of medical assistants.
Our team is comprised of seasoned experts, all of whom boast at least a decade of dedicated experience in obstetric nursing. This ensures that our practice materials are not just designed by the leading minds in the industry but are also incredibly effective in preparing candidates for triumph in their certification efforts. Our steadfast commitment to excellence guarantees that individuals utilizing our resources will be comprehensively prepared and poised with confidence to meet their certification goals.
Effective Study Strategies and Methods
For those preparing for the Inpatient Obstetric Nursing (RNC-OB) exam, a comprehensive and strategic approach to study is essential. Here are some effective study strategies and resources to help you excel in the exam:
Study Strategies
- Understand the Exam Structure: The RNC-OB exam covers a wide range of topics, including Complications of Pregnancy, Fetal Assessment, Labor and Birth, Recovery, Postpartum and Newborn Care, and Professional Issues. Knowing the structure and content focus can help you allocate your study time more effectively.
- Use Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs): Engaging with MCQs that cover various cognitive difficulty levels and clinical need science topics can enhance your test-taking skills and reinforce your understanding of the material. StatPearls, for example, offers a rich database of MCQs linked to PubMed indexed review articles related to the RNC OB® Examination.
- Leverage Digital Resources: Online platforms offer a variety of learning formats, from e-courses and live video streaming to digital flashcards and full practice tests. These resources not only cover the core topics but also provide strategies for effective studying and test-taking.
- Practice with Review Courses: Participate in review courses that provide a comprehensive overview of inpatient obstetric nursing. These courses, available from providers like Nurse.com and Nurse Builders, offer structured content, practice questions, and insights into enhancing clinical nursing practice.
- Engage in Continuous Learning: After passing the exam, remember that continuous education is required to maintain your certification. The NCC Maintenance Program offers the necessary continuing education every three years, ensuring your nursing practice knowledge remains current.
By utilizing these strategies and resources, you can better prepare for the RNC-OB exam and enhance your knowledge and skills in inpatient obstetric nursing.
Cost
| Description | Cost |
|---|---|
| Exam Fee | USD 325 |
| Study Material – Review Book | USD 59.95 |
| Study Material – Study Cards | USD 44.95 |
| Review Course Online | USD 199 |
| Exam Prep Course | USD 149.99 |
The cost of obtaining the Inpatient Obstetric Nursing (RNC-OB) board certification involves several components, from exam fees to study materials and preparatory courses. Here’s a breakdown based on the information gathered:
Exam Fees:
- The application fee for the computer-based testing is USD 325, which includes a USD 50 non-refundable application submission cost and a USD 275 testing fee. Additionally, incomplete applications may incur a USD 30 reprocessing fee.
Eligibility Requirements:
To apply, you must have a current, active, and unencumbered RN license in the U.S. or Canada, at least 24 months of specialty experience with a minimum of 2000 hours, and employment in the specialty within the last 24 months.
Study and Preparation Costs:
- StatPearls offers a review designed to help you maximize your score, featuring over 541 multiple-choice questions linked to detailed explanations and articles.
- Nurse.com provides an RNC-OB certification review course online for USD 199, covering key topics and including practice questions.
- Nurse Builders has various study aids including a review book for USD 59.95, study cards for USD 44.95, and a guide for nursing certification exams for USD 9.95. They also offer a comprehensive review course with live video streaming options, priced at (price not provided but typically ranges).
- PESI offers an exam prep course valued at over USD 299.99 for a promotional price of USD 149.99, which includes up to 10.25 CE hours. This intensive course covers a wide range of topics relevant to the exam.
- Mometrix provides an online prep course with access to a study guide, flashcards, full tests, and bonus guides to help manage test anxiety and study strategies. The course aims to give a comprehensive overview of the test material, although the specific price for this service was not provided.
Post-Exam Fees:
There might be additional costs associated with maintaining your certification over time, such as fees for continuing education units (CEUs) required for recertification. However, these fees can vary widely depending on the provider and the number of CEUs you need.
It’s important to note that prices for study materials and courses can vary and may change over time. Additionally, investing in multiple study resources can enhance your preparation but will also increase your overall costs. Always check the latest information directly from the providers’ websites or contact them for the most up-to-date pricing and offerings.
Reliable Study Materials and Resources
To prepare for the Inpatient Obstetric Nursing (RNC-OB) certification exam, there are several comprehensive resources available online that cater to various learning styles, including study guides, practice questions, and review courses. Below are some of the best resources you can use:
- Springer Publishing Exam Prep: Springer Publishing offers a range of RNC-OB® exam prep materials, including a study guide and a 6-month subscription to certification practice Q&A. They also provide a 7-day free trial with free inpatient obstetric nursing practice questions to gauge your preparation level .
- Nurse.com: Offers an Inpatient Obstetric Nursing (RNC-OB) Certification Review Course that is designed to fit your schedule and includes the latest best practices and inpatient OB certification practice questions. The course covers essential topics such as Antepartum Care and Evaluation and Intrapartum Labor and Birth, among others.
- StatPearls: Provides a question bank designed to help maximize your score on the Inpatient Obstetric Nurse Certification Exam. It features multiple-choice questions based on the National Certification Corporation® topics, customizable practice questions, and detailed explanations to aid in understanding.
- Nurse Builders: Offers study aids like the latest edition of Practice Questions for Inpatient Obstetric Nursing Certification Review Book and Review Study Cards. Their courses provide a comprehensive review based on the inpatient obstetric nursing exam content outline, enhancing both exam success and clinical practice.
- National Certification Corporation (NCC): Provides detailed information on eligibility requirements, the application process, and testing details for the Inpatient Obstetric Nursing certification. Their resources are essential for understanding the specifics of the certification process.
- PESI.com: Offers an intensive online Inpatient Obstetric Certification Review Course that covers various topics, including maternal factors affecting the fetus, infectious diseases, pregnancy risks, labor and birth, and newborn care. This course is aimed at providing a thorough review of inpatient obstetric care and includes an exam prep course with practice tests.
Each of these resources provides unique benefits to your exam preparation process, from practice questions and in-depth study materials to comprehensive review courses. Depending on your learning style and the areas you need to focus on, you might find one or more of these resources particularly useful. It’s a good idea to explore each option to determine which ones will best suit your preparation needs.
Tips for Exam Day
To excel on the Inpatient Obstetric Nursing (RNC-OB) exam, there are several key strategies and resources you can utilize to ensure you’re fully prepared for exam day. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the preparation process and optimize your performance on the exam.
Exam Overview
The Inpatient Obstetric Nursing exam is a critical step for registered nurses seeking to earn the RNC-OB credential, showcasing their expertise in the field. The exam is structured into five sections: Complications of Pregnancy, Fetal Assessment, Labor and Birth, Recovery, Postpartum and Newborn Care, and Professional Issues, with questions covering a broad range of topics from maternal complications to legal and ethical issues in obstetric nursing.
Preparation Strategies
- Understand the Exam Format and Content: Familiarize yourself with the exam structure, including the types of questions asked and the subjects covered. The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions, including 25 unscored questions, and is administered over a three-hour period without breaks.
- Utilize Practice Questions and Prep Courses: Engage with practice questions and take advantage of prep courses. Mometrix offers a comprehensive online Inpatient Obstetric Nursing Prep Course that includes review lessons covering every topic, practice questions, electronic flashcards, and full-length practice tests. This prep course is designed to cater to every type of learner, whether you prefer visual learning, reading, or learning by practice.
- Review Key Topics and Content Areas: Focus on the main content areas outlined in the exam, including complications of pregnancy, fetal assessment, labor and birth, postpartum and newborn care, and professional practice issues. Resources like StatPearls offer a question bank designed to help you achieve top scores by covering National Certification Corporation® topics thoroughly .
- Manage Your Time and Stress: Effective time management and stress reduction are crucial. Arrive at the testing center or log in for your remote proctored exam early. Ensure you meet all technical requirements for online exams, including having a compatible computer setup with a webcam and microphone, and a stable internet connection.
- Develop a Study Plan: Create a study plan that allows you to cover all topics systematically. Incorporate breaks and review sessions into your plan to reinforce learning and prevent burnout.
- Take Care of Yourself: Prioritize your physical and mental health in the days leading up to the exam. Get adequate sleep, eat healthily, and engage in stress-relieving activities to ensure you are in the best possible condition on exam day.
By following these strategies and utilizing available resources, you can increase your chances of passing the Inpatient Obstetric Nursing exam and advancing your nursing career. Remember, the key to success is thorough preparation, practice, and self-care.
Post-Exam: Next Steps
After completing the Inpatient Obstetric Nursing (RNC-OB) exam, there are several strategies and steps you can take to continue your professional development and prepare for the results:
- Review and Reflect: Start by reflecting on the exam experience. Consider areas where you felt strong and areas where you faced challenges. Some online courses offer post-test assessments to help identify these areas, like the detailed performance reports and practice questions based on the National Certification Corporation® topics provided by StatPearls. This can guide your future learning efforts or preparation if you plan to retake the exam or pursue additional certifications.
- Engage in Continuous Learning: Enroll in comprehensive review courses that cover key aspects of inpatient obstetric nursing. Nurse.com offers a certification review bundle that includes courses on antepartum care, management of intrapartum complications, postpartum patient care, and professional issues among other topics, all of which can be valuable for reinforcing your knowledge and keeping you up-to-date with the latest best practices.
- Practice with Additional Questions: Access to a variety of practice questions and simulations can be beneficial. Springer Publishing, for instance, provides a digital access subscription that includes detailed RN practice questions and rationales to gauge your preparedness for the exam day. This can be an excellent way to keep your skills sharp and ready for real-world application or future exams.
- Join Intensive Review Courses: Consider joining intensive review courses that span over a few weeks and offer a comprehensive curriculum, such as the 4-week intensive course offered by Dynamic Test Prep. These courses are designed to cover everything from the fundamentals of obstetric nursing to professional issues, providing a detailed review along with strategies to tackle the exam’s unique format.
- Utilize Varied Learning Resources: Look into courses like those offered by PESI, which include video sessions, an inpatient obstetric course manual in PDF format, additional study tools, and online practice tests. This variety of resources can cater to different learning styles and help ensure a thorough understanding of the subject matter.
- Explore E-Learning Platforms: Platforms like Mometrix offer prep courses that include e-guides, flashcards, full tests, and bonus guides with study and test-taking strategies. This can be an effective way to reinforce your knowledge and address any areas of weakness through a self-paced, structured study plan.
Remember, the post-exam period is a critical time for growth and development. Using these strategies can help you leverage your exam experience toward becoming a more knowledgeable and confident inpatient obstetric nurse.
References
- “National Certification Corporation (NCC).” NCC, n.d., https://www.nccwebsite.org/.
- “Nurse Inpatient Obstetric RNC.” StatPearls, StatPearls Publishing, n.d., https://www.statpearls.com/boardreview/Nurse-Inpatient%20Obstetric%20RNC.
- “RNC-OB Exam.” Mometrix University, Mometrix Test Preparation, n.d., https://www.mometrix.com/university/rncob/.
- “2022 Inpatient Obstetric Nursing RNC-OB Certification Review E-Course.” Nurse Builders, n.d., https://ecourses.nursebuilders.net/courses/2022-inpatient-obstetric-nursing-rnc-ob-certification-review-e-course.
- “Inpatient Obstetric Nursing Certification Review.” Nurse Builders, n.d., https://nursebuilders.net/inpatient-obstetric-nursing-certification-review/.
- “Inpatient Obstetric Nursing RNC-OB Certification Review.” Nurse.com, n.d., https://www.nurse.com/ce/inpatient-obstetric-nursing-rnc-ob-certification-review.
- “RNC-OB Exam Prep.” Springer Publishing Company, n.d., https://www.springerpub.com/examprep/nursing/rn/rncob.
- “Obstetric Nursing Certification Prep Course.” PESI, n.d., https://catalog.pesi.com/sales/hc_c_001279_obcertprep_organic-35618.
- “RNC-OB Certification: Everything You Need to Know.” Career Employer, n.d., https://careeremployer.com/nursing/specialized/rnc-ob-certification/.
- “Inpatient Obstetric Nursing.” National Certification Corporation, n.d., https://www.nccwebsite.org/certification-exams/details/2/inpatient-obstetric-nursing.
- “Inpatient Obstetrics Test.” Test Prep Review, n.d., https://www.testprepreview.com/inpatient-obstetrics-test.htm.
- “Inpatient Obstetric Nurse Practice Test.” Mometrix Academy, Mometrix Test Preparation, n.d., https://www.mometrix.com/academy/inpatient-obstetric-nurse-practice-test/.
- “What specialty did you decide to settle in as a nurse?” Reddit, 17 Jan. 2013, https://www.reddit.com/r/nursing/comments/16m6uro/what_specialty_did_you_decide_to_settle_in_as_a/.
- “Inpatient Obstetric Nurse Certification RNC-OB.” Dynamic Test Prep, n.d., https://dynamictestprep.com/pages/inpatient-obstetric-nurse-certification-rnc-ob.
- “How to Pass the Inpatient Obstetric Nursing Exam.” YouTube, uploaded by Mometrix Test Preparation, n.d., https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zW41Insvp4U.
- “LD Nurses, what’s it really like working in your specialty?” Reddit, 18 Aug. 2022, https://www.reddit.com/r/Nurses/comments/wjaits/ld_nurses_whats_it_really_like_working_in_your/.
- “Study Tips for the Inpatient Obstetric Nursing Exam.” YouTube, uploaded by Nursing Study Buddy, n.d., https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ibcJ8219n4U.
- “RNC-OB Study Guide 2023-2024: Review Book with Practice Test Questions for the Inpatient Obstetric Nursing Exam.” Amazon, n.d., https://www.amazon.com/RNC-OB-Study-Guide-All-Depth/dp/B0CP9JD1VY.
