2024 Edition
CEN Test Guide
| The CEN Test Summary
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|---|---|
| What: An exam for nurses looking to reinforce special knowledge and experience in the field of emergency nursing. | |
| Who: Individuals with licensure equivalent to an RN are eligible to take the CEN. | |
| Where: The CEN exams is administered at PSI testing sites in major metropolitan areas across the United States. | |
| When: The CEN is offered Monday-Friday, year-round. | |
| How: The CEN exam tests individuals on knowledge and skills relevant to emergency care. | |
| Type: 175 questions multiple choice questions | |
| Why: CEN certification credits an individual with the special experience and knowledge required for emergency nursing. | |
| Time: Three hours | |
| Language: English | |
| Preparation: Take practice tests and review text books. | |
| Cost: There is a fee to take the test | |
The Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) exam, trademarked by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing (BCEN), tests an individual's understanding and skills in the field of emergency nursing. The purpose of CEN certification is to provide a means of measuring the attainment and application of emergency nursing knowledge that is necessary to function at a proficient level. CEN certification encourages continued education for emergency nurses and formally recognizes them for their ability to meet the requirements of the CEN exam.
In order to be eligible to take the CEN exam, a candidate is required to have a current, unrestricted nursing license or certificate equivalent to a registered nurse (RN) in the United States. Although not required, it is further recommended that an individual have at least two years experience in emergency room nursing.
Before being able to take the exam, one must first request an application from the BCEN. Upon approval from the BCEN, qualified applicants will receive a handbook and authorization letter, which will allow the individual to schedule an exam date.
CEN certification lasts for four years.
Test Content and Preparation
The CEN exam consists of 175 multiple choice questions, 150 of which are scored. There are ten sections to the CEN exam:
- Cardiovascular Emergencies
- Respiratory Emergencies
- Neurological Emergencies
- Gastrointestinal, Genitourinary, Gynecology, and Obstetrical
- Mental Health Emergencies
- Medical Emergencies
- Musculoskeletal and Wound Emergencies
- Maxillofacial and Ocular Emergencies
- Ulcerations and Keratitis
- Professional Issues
A candidate needs a score of 70% to pass.
When preparing for the CEN, it is important that one be very familiar with test content. Study guides, text books, practices tests and practice problems are useful resources to utilize. Also, prior to taking the CEN exam, an individual should be comfortable with computer orientation. Knowing how to answer questions electronically will help to eliminate any confusion with the CEN computer-based testing system.
Want additional help preparing for the CEN? Check out our CEN Directory to find helpful study aids.
