Navigating CE Requirements for RNs in Arkansas

Continuing education (CE) is a vital component of professional development for registered nurses (RNs) in Arkansas. 

It’s designed to help them maintain their licensure and ensure they provide the best possible care. This article gives an overview of the CE requirements for RNs in Arkansas, details the license renewal process, and explains important deadlines that nurses should observe.

CE requirements for nurses in Arkansas

Arkansas RNs are required to complete one of these two options: 

• 15 contact hours of continuing education every two years
• Obtain a nationally recognized certification or recertification during the renewal period. 

The Arkansas State Board of Nursing (ASBN) recognizes various forms of educational activities as valid for CE credits, including workshops, seminars, college courses, and online learning modules.

Acceptable CE providers

The ASBN has an approved list of CE providers, and it’s crucial that nurses choose CE activities that are conducted by these approved providers to count towards their licensure requirements. These providers include recognized healthcare organizations, educational institutions, and professional nursing associations that adhere to specific educational standards.

License renewal process

The process of renewing a nursing license in Arkansas is straightforward and managed online via the ASBN website. Here are the steps involved:

• Log in to the nurse portal: Access the renewal section by logging into the Arkansas Nurse Portal.
• Complete the renewal application: Update any personal information, if necessary, and answer the required questions regarding your practice over the past renewal period.
• Submit CE documentation: Add details about the completed CE activities or provide documentation of a national certification.
• Pay the renewal fee: The renewal fee for RNs is $100, but fees are subject to change.

Nurses are encouraged to keep copies of their CE certificates or proof of national certification for at least four years, as the board may request these documents for verification during audits.

Timelines and important dates

In Arkansas, nursing licenses expire every two years on the last day of the nurse’s birth month. To avoid any disruption in their ability to work, RNs should begin the renewal process several months in advance of the expiration date. The board sends out a reminder to renew, but ultimately, maintaining the license's validity is the responsibility of the individual nurse.

Continuing education ensures that RNs in Arkansas stay knowledgeable about new healthcare practices and technologies and helps them deliver high-quality care. By meeting their CE requirements, nurses adhere to regulatory mandates, advance their professional skills, and enhance their career prospects.