If you decide to go into a specialized area of nursing, you'll
need to complete additional educational requirements. Most
specialties require additional post-baccalaureate training, as
well as the completion of a test. Since these requirements differ
from state to state, check with the state board of nursing.
Registered nurses are required to pass the National Council
Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses, or NCLEX-RN® Exam.
This exam is given to all parts of the United States and tests
minimum competency on the knowledge and activities of an
entry-level nurse.
For nurses that are board certified by ANCC (American Nurses
Credentialing Center) or by nursing specialty associations,
continuing education along with a specified number of practice
hours is mandatory for recertification. This information can be
obtained at ANCC�s website and at the websites of the specialty
associations by which you are certified.