How many CE hours do New Jersey RNs need for license renewal?
New Jersey RNs must complete 30 contact hours of continuing education during the two-year period preceding renewal, under N.J.A.C. 13:37-5.3. The 30 hours must include at least 1 hour on prescription opioid drugs (effective June 1, 2020). Up to 15 excess hours can be carried over to the next biennial period. A hardship waiver is available if requested at least 90 days before the renewal date.
What is the mandatory opioid CE requirement for New Jersey RNs?
Effective June 1, 2020, all New Jersey RNs and LPNs must complete 1 contact hour of CE on prescription opioid drugs per biennial renewal. The content must include alternatives to opioids for managing and treating pain, and the risks and signs of opioid abuse, addiction, and diversion. This hour counts toward the 30-hour total.
What types of CE count toward New Jersey RN renewal?
N.J.A.C. 13:37-5.3(d) specifies 16 approved credit methods. Most commonly: ANCC-accredited CE programs (employer courses acceptable if ANCC-approved), academic coursework (5 contact hours per credit), published nursing works, professional presentations, research, and preceptorship (10 hours per 100 preceptor service hours). All CE must be approved by an ANCC-accredited credentialing agency.
Is New Jersey part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)?
Yes. New Jersey is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact. A nurse whose home state is New Jersey can hold a New Jersey multistate license and practice in other NLC states, and a nurse holding an active, unencumbered multistate license issued by another NLC member state has a privilege to practice in New Jersey under that license. A nurse renewing a New Jersey RN license must still meet New Jersey's CE requirements at each biennial renewal.
Where can I get information about my New Jersey RN license renewal?
New Jersey RNs can access CE and renewal information through the NJBON CE FAQ at https://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/nur/pages/continuing-education-faq.aspx and the main Board website at https://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/nur. The Board conducts audits and license verifications through the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs.