The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification is the quickest nursing certification in Nevada. This entry-level certification requires completion of a state-approved training program with a minimum of 75 hours of instruction (45 hours classroom education and 30 hours clinical practice). CNA training programs in Nevada can be completed in as little as 6 weeks, with some programs even offering completion in as little as 4 weeks, making it the fastest pathway into the healthcare field. This certification offers a fast track into healthcare without requiring years of schooling or the high costs of a traditional degree and provides an excellent foundation for advancing into more specialized roles.

After completing a BSN degree, the process for obtaining nursing certification involves several key steps:

1. You must submit a completed application to the Nevada State Board of Nursing along with a $105 application fee. You'll need to provide a copy of your diploma or official transcripts and complete a fingerprinting card for a background check.

2. All applications are submitted through the Nevada Nurse Portal, a secure online system where you can apply for licensure, check status, and apply for renewal.

3. You must pass the NCLEX-RN examination to qualify for licensure.

4. For specialized certifications or advanced practice roles, you'll need to determine what type of nursing certification or specialization you want to pursue and meet additional requirements for that specialty.

5. For advanced practice roles, you must complete continuing education requirements - RNs must complete 30 continuing education credits every two years to maintain their license.

Yes, you can obtain certain nursing certificates online, though most require some in-person components:

Nevada Online offers several online nursing certificate programs that can be completed online, allowing students to continue working as they earn their degree. Many online nursing programs still require some in-person clinical hours, internships, or practicums even though the coursework is completed online.

For CNA certification, while some programs offer online components for theoretical knowledge, the clinical skills portion must be completed in person under supervision. For RN to BSN programs, schools like the University of Nevada, Reno offer accredited, innovative programs that can be completed online with flexible scheduling options.

Yes, there are several types of nursing certificates available from the University of Nevada, Reno:

The Nevada State Board of Nursing issues licenses for nurses to practice as registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). The board also recognizes certified nursing assistants (CNAs) by providing them with certificates.

Other nursing certificates include:

• Post-graduate certificates that take less time than a degree but help nurses build niche skills in specializations like psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, nurse leader, nurse educator, and family nurse practitioner.

• The University of Nevada, Reno offers nursing certificate programs in various specialties including Family Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Leader, and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

• The Nevada Nurses Association offers continuing education opportunities in the form of online courses that provide certificates of completion for meeting continuing education requirements.

To obtain a nursing certificate online in Nevada:

1. Research and select from accredited online nursing programs offered by Nevada institutions. Ensure the program is recognized by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

2. Apply through the institution's admissions process and complete all prerequisite requirements.

3. For RN to BSN programs, establish eligibility by having an associate degree from an accredited institution and a nationally accredited nursing program.

4. Complete the required coursework and any clinical requirements.

5. After program completion, apply for your license or certificate through the Nevada Nurse Portal and complete any required examinations.

6. If you have questions about the application process, you can contact the Nevada State Board of Nursing through their message center in the Nevada Nurse Portal or email them at nursingboard@nsbn.state.nv.us.

These online pathways provide flexibility for working professionals while still maintaining the high educational standards required for nursing practice in Nevada.