When you see a professional’s name badge, there are often a lot of extra letters and abbreviations included. There are a multitude of variations because there are so many educational programs and certifications available for a professional to take. A standardized way is essential so that it is recognized everywhere for everyone.
The American Nurses Association provides guidance on what is important to include and omit when writing your credentials. You want to include what is pertinent for your position in the nursing field.
Writing Out Credentials
Key components to include when writing out your credentials are: your first and last name, highest degree earned, current licensure, and any specialty certifications that you hold.
Highest Degree Earned
If you are working your way up the nursing ladder, you will put your highest level of education because it is a permanent fixture in your career. Currently I have an Associate’s Degree in Nursing and a Bachelor’s in Nursing so I would put BSN after my name. If you have two of similar degrees but different specialties, you should list the nursing degree first. Such as MSN, MBA.
Nursing Ladder
AD/ADN/ASN –> BS/BA/BSN/ABSN –> MS/MA/MSN/MS-MEPN –> DNP/PhD/EdD/DrPH/DNS
Current State Licensure
There are only two nursing licenses to list here: registered nurse (RN) and licensed practical nurse (LPN).
Nursing Path
CNA (no education) –> LPN/LVN (PN diploma) –> RN (ADN/ASN minimum) –> APRN (MSN/MS-MEPN minimum)
State Designation
Advanced practitioners need to include this differentiation in their credentials. This includes: advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), nurse practitioner (NP), and clinical nurse specialist (CNS).
Specialty National Certifications
Given that there are so many options for certifications, I will not list them all. A few examples of common certifications are: family nurse practitioner – board certified (FNP-BC), critical care registered nurse (CCRN), or registered nurse – board certified (RN-BC). These can be listed in no particular order, though I would opt for alphabetical or in order of when I achieved them.
Awards & Honors
An option if you have it that can be included are awards and honors earned. The Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing (FAAN) is an example of an honor.
Other Certifications
Most prominently included last, would be that of an emergency medical technician (EMT).
My Example
To put it all together, here is what my credentials would look like after I achieve all my career goals:
Kristen O’Brien, MSN-Ed, RN, CNE, CNEcl
MSN-Ed = master’s degree in nursing education
RN = registered nurse license
CNE, CNEcl = certified nurse educator & certified academic clinical nurse educator specialty certifications
How are your credentials written? Let me know below in the comments!
