Top 11 Rehabilitation Nurse Certifications

Certifications are important for a rehabilitation nurse in the job market because they demonstrate a commitment to continuing education and professional development. Certifications provide evidence that an individual has met the necessary competencies to practice in their specialty area, and can help differentiate a nurse from other applicants when applying for a job. Employers value certifications as proof of knowledge, skills, and abilities within a particular area of practice. Certification also provides recognition for nurses who have achieved excellence in their field, and may lead to increased salary or advancement opportunities.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Rehabilitation Nurses and explain how they can help enhance a rehabilitation nurse's career.

What are Rehabilitation Nurse Certifications?

Rehabilitation nurse certification is a credential that demonstrates a nurse’s specialized knowledge, skills and experience in providing rehabilitation care for patients. This certification is awarded by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and requires nurses to pass an examination. Rehabilitation nurses help patients with disabilities or chronic illnesses to recover functioning, reduce pain and suffering, improve quality of life, and maximize independence. They provide comprehensive care that focuses on physical, psychosocial, educational, vocational and environmental needs in order to achieve the best possible outcomes for their patients.

Having this certification allows nurses to demonstrate their expertise in rehabilitation nursing practice. It also helps them remain current with evidence-based practices in the field of rehabilitation nursing. With this certification, nurses can gain credibility within the healthcare community as well as within the legal system when testifying as an expert witness concerning rehabilitation nursing care. Furthermore, it provides them with career advancement opportunities such as job promotions and leadership roles in the field of rehabilitation nursing.

Pro Tip: Make sure you are familiar with the requirements for rehabilitation nurse certification before beginning the process. Research the organization offering the certification, review their eligibility criteria and make sure to have all necessary documents ready for submission. Additionally, familiarize yourself with any continuing education or other requirements associated with the certification to ensure your certification does not lapse over time.

Related: What does a Rehabilitation Nurse do?

Top 11 Rehabilitation Nurse Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Rehabilitation Nurses today.

1. Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN)

A Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN) is a type of advanced practice nurse who specializes in the care and rehabilitation of individuals with physical disabilities, chronic illnesses, and other health-related conditions. CRRNs provide comprehensive care to help individuals achieve their maximum potential for independent living.

To become a CRRN, nurses must have an active RN license and at least one year of experience in direct patient care in a rehabilitation setting. The certification exam is administered by the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics (ABCOP). The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and takes about four hours to complete.

The cost for the CRRN certification exam is $395 for members of ABCOP or $495 for non-members. Additionally, there is an annual renewal fee of $50 to maintain certification status.

2. Certified Brain Injury Specialist (CBIS)

A Certified Brain Injury Specialist (CBIS) is a professional who has been trained and certified to provide specialized services to individuals with brain injuries. The certification is awarded by the Academy of Certified Brain Injury Specialists (ACBIS).

To become a CBIS, an individual must complete an approved training program and pass the ACBIS certification exam. The training program consists of two parts: a minimum of 15 hours of online coursework and a supervised field experience. The field experience must be completed under the supervision of an ACBIS-approved mentor.

The cost for certification varies depending on the provider, but typically ranges from $400-$800. Certification must be renewed every three years, which requires completion of continuing education credits and payment of renewal fees.

3. Certified Disability Management Specialist (CDMS)

A Certified Disability Management Specialist (CDMS) is a professional who has been certified by the Commission for Case Manager Certification (CCMC) to provide specialized services in disability management. The CDMS credential is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of disability management, which includes case management, return-to-work coordination, and other related services.

In order to become a CDMS, an individual must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass an examination administered by CCMC. To be eligible for certification, applicants must possess a minimum of three years of experience in disability management or case management; have a bachelor’s degree or higher; and complete at least 30 hours of continuing education within the past three years.

The cost for taking the CDMS exam varies depending on whether you are a first-time applicant or a re-applicant. For first-time applicants, the fee is $400 plus applicable taxes; for re-applicants, the fee is $350 plus applicable taxes. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

Once you have successfully passed the exam and met all other eligibility requirements, you will receive your CDMS certificate from CCMC. This certificate is valid for five years before needing to be renewed. Renewal requires completion of at least 30 hours of continuing education in disability management during that five year period as well as payment of an annual renewal fee ($50).

4. Certified Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (CVRP)

Certified Vocational Rehabilitation Professional (CVRP) is a professional designation that recognizes the expertise of individuals who work in the field of vocational rehabilitation. These professionals help individuals with disabilities to develop and maintain meaningful employment. The CVRP credential is awarded by the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC).

To become certified, an individual must meet certain requirements, including completing a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling or a related field, having at least two years of full-time experience providing vocational rehabilitation services, and passing the CRCC’s certification examination.

The process of becoming certified typically takes between six months and one year. The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the individual's educational background and experience, but typically ranges from $500 to $1,000.

5. Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC)

A Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) is a professional who has achieved a high level of expertise in the field of rehabilitation counseling. A CRC works with individuals with physical, mental, emotional, or developmental disabilities to help them achieve their personal and professional goals. The goal of rehabilitation counseling is to help individuals become as independent as possible and lead meaningful lives.

In order to become a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, an individual must first meet certain educational requirements. This includes earning a master's degree in rehabilitation counseling from an accredited university or college, completing at least two years of supervised clinical experience in the field, and passing the national certification exam administered by the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC).

The cost of becoming a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor can vary depending on the individual's educational background and experience. Generally speaking, it may cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 for tuition and fees associated with obtaining a master's degree in rehabilitation counseling. Additionally, there are fees associated with taking the CRCC exam which range from $200-$400 depending on when you register for the exam.

Overall, it typically takes around two years to complete all of the requirements necessary to become a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor.

6. Certified Case Manager (CCM)

Certified Case Manager (CCM) is a credential awarded by the Commission for Case Manager Certification (CCMC). It is the highest level of recognition for case managers and is recognized nationally as a mark of excellence in the field.

The CCM certification requires that an individual demonstrate knowledge and experience in case management practice, and pass a comprehensive examination. The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as case management practice, ethics, health care systems, and professional standards.

It typically takes 6-12 months to prepare for the CCM exam. During this time, individuals should review study materials, attend training sessions or seminars, and take practice tests. There are also online study resources available to help prepare for the exam.

To become certified as a CCM, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements including having at least two years of full-time case management experience within the past five years or three years of part-time experience within the past five years; holding a current license or certification in a health care profession; and passing the CCM exam with a score of at least 70%.

The cost to take the CCM exam is $395 USD for members of CCMC and $495 USD for non-members.

7. Certified Nursing Home Administrator (CNHA)

Certified Nursing Home Administrator (CNHA) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the management and operation of nursing homes. CNHA certification is awarded by the National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB). To become certified, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements, pass a written examination, and complete continuing education credits.

How long does it take to get it? It typically takes about one to two years to complete the necessary requirements for CNHA certification. This includes completing an approved nursing home administrator program, gaining at least one year of full-time experience in a nursing home setting, and passing the NAB exam.

How do you get it? In order to obtain CNHA certification, applicants must first complete an approved nursing home administrator program from an accredited college or university. After completing this program, applicants must then gain at least one year of full-time experience in a nursing home setting. Finally, applicants must pass the NAB exam in order to receive their certification.

How much does it cost? The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the state in which you are applying. Generally speaking, applicants can expect to pay anywhere from $200-$500 for application fees and exam fees combined.

8. Certified Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP-BC)

A Certified Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP-BC) is a nurse practitioner who specializes in the care of elderly patients. GNP-BCs provide comprehensive primary care services to older adults, including assessing and managing acute and chronic conditions. They also focus on preventive care, health promotion, and patient education.

It typically takes two years to become a Certified Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP-BC). To get certified, individuals must have an active RN license and have completed a graduate level program with an emphasis in gerontology or geriatrics. Additionally, they must pass the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s (ANCC) Gerontological Nurse Practitioner certification exam.

The cost of becoming a Certified Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP-BC) varies depending on the individual’s educational background and experience. The cost of the ANCC certification exam is $325 for members of the American Nurses Association or $450 for non-members. In addition to the cost of the exam, individuals may incur additional expenses related to their graduate program such as tuition fees and books.

9. American Board for Occupational Health Nurses Certification in Rehabilitation Nursing (ABOHN-CRN)

The American Board for Occupational Health Nurses Certification in Rehabilitation Nursing (ABOHN-CRN) is a certification program designed to recognize nurses who specialize in the care of individuals with physical, mental, and developmental disabilities. The program is administered by the American Board for Occupational Health Nurses (ABOHN), a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the practice of occupational health nursing.

The ABOHN-CRN certification requires applicants to have an active RN license and at least two years of full-time experience as a registered nurse in rehabilitation nursing. Candidates must also pass an exam that covers topics such as patient assessment, treatment planning, rehabilitation interventions, and professional ethics. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

To get certified, applicants must submit an application form along with supporting documents such as transcripts from their nursing school and verification of their RN license. Once approved, candidates must register for the exam and pay an application fee of $250. After passing the exam, they will receive their official ABOHN-CRN certification.

The ABOHN-CRN certification is valid for five years and can be renewed by completing continuing education credits or retaking the exam.

10. American Nurses Credentialing Center's Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation Nursing Certification (ANCC-CRRN)

The American Nurses Credentialing Center's Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation Nursing Certification (ANCC-CRRN) is a certification for nurses who provide care to patients with cardiac or pulmonary conditions. It is designed to recognize registered nurses who have demonstrated advanced knowledge, skills, and abilities in the specialty area of cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation nursing.

To qualify for the ANCC-CRRN certification, applicants must have a current RN license in their state of practice and at least two years of full-time experience as an RN in the field of cardiac or pulmonary rehabilitation nursing within the last five years. In addition, applicants must complete 30 hours of continuing education related to cardiac or pulmonary rehabilitation nursing within the past three years.

The ANCC-CRRN certification process typically takes 4-6 weeks from the time all required documents are received by the ANCC. After submitting an application, applicants will be notified by email when their application has been approved and they can schedule their exam date. The cost of taking the exam is $350 USD.

11. National Council on Strength and Fitness Clinical Exercise Physiology Certification (NCSF-CEP).

The National Council on Strength and Fitness Clinical Exercise Physiology Certification (NCSF-CEP) is a professional certification for exercise physiologists. It is designed to recognize individuals who have the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to provide safe and effective clinical exercise programming.

The NCSF-CEP certification program consists of two components: a written exam and a practical skills assessment. The written exam covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, nutrition, exercise prescription, and safety/emergency procedures. The practical skills assessment requires the candidate to demonstrate their ability to assess clients’ fitness levels, develop appropriate exercise programs, and administer proper instruction in exercise technique.

It typically takes between three to six months to complete the NCSF-CEP certification process. To get certified, candidates must first complete an approved NCSF-CEP course or equivalent training program. After completing the coursework or training program, they must then pass both the written exam and practical skills assessment with a score of 80% or higher.

The cost of obtaining the NCSF-CEP certification varies depending on the provider offering it. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$1,000 for the entire process (including coursework/training).

Do You Really Need a Rehabilitation Nurse Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual circumstances and career goals. If you are already a registered nurse in good standing, obtaining a Rehabilitation Nurse Certificate may be of benefit to you if you are interested in specializing in rehabilitative nursing. This certificate can provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to care for patients recovering from illness or injury, helping them regain their physical and mental functioning.

Rehabilitation nurses work closely with doctors, therapists, social workers, and other medical professionals to coordinate the best possible care for their patients. As such, it is important that they possess the correct qualifications and certifications in order to perform their job effectively. For this reason, many employers prefer candidates who have obtained a Rehabilitation Nurse Certificate over those without one. It also serves as an indication of advanced training and expertise in the field of rehabilitation nursing.

In addition to providing evidence of specialized knowledge, obtaining a Rehabilitation Nurse Certificate can also help open doors for career advancement. Many employers will look favorably upon someone who has taken the initiative to further his or her education in this way, giving them an edge above others when it comes time for promotions or higher-level positions within the organization.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a Rehabilitation Nurse Certificate depends on your individual goals and circumstances. If you are looking to specialize in rehabilitation nursing and would like to demonstrate your commitment by obtaining a certification that is recognized by employers within the field, then it may be worth considering earning one.

Related: Rehabilitation Nurse Resume Examples

FAQs About Rehabilitation Nurse Certifications

1. What is a rehabilitation nurse certification?

Answer: A rehabilitation nurse certification is a specialized nursing credential that demonstrates the nurse’s knowledge and expertise in providing care to patients with physical, cognitive, or emotional disabilities. It is offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

2. How do I become certified as a rehabilitation nurse?

Answer: To become certified as a rehabilitation nurse, you must first complete an accredited registered nursing program and obtain licensure as an RN. Then, you must pass the ANCC’s examination for Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN).

3. How long does it take to get certified as a rehabilitation nurse?

Answer: The process of getting certified as a rehabilitation nurse typically takes anywhere from 6-12 months depending on your study habits and availability of courses or workshops related to the CRRN exam.

4. What are the benefits of becoming a certified rehabilitation nurse?

Answer: Becoming a certified rehabilitation nurse gives you credibility among other healthcare professionals and employers, allows for greater job opportunities, helps to expand your knowledge base in the field of rehabilitative care, and can lead to higher salaries due to increased specialization within the nursing profession.

5. Is there any continuing education required for maintaining my certification?

Answer: Yes, in order to maintain your certification as a Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN), you must complete 45 hours of continuing education every three years in order to renew your certification.