CEN Exam FAQs
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.
The CEN exam consists of multiple-choice questions.
The CEN exam consists of 175 multiple choice questions. Only 150 questions on the test will be scored. The other 15 are used for statistical data and trials for future CEN tests.
You have three hours to complete the CEN exam.
All CEN candidates must register to test through PSI, the national testing vendor for the CEN. Go to the BCEN website to register. You will receive a confirmation email after you have successfully applied for the exam. You may then schedule an exam appointment using the link in your confirmation email or via the dashboard. 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. The CEN is offered on a daily basis, year-round at testing sites across the United States and US territories.
Out of the 150 scored items, candidates must answer 106 items correctly to achieve a passing score on the CEN exam.
All questions on the CEN exam will come from these ten content areas:
- 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
The CEN exam was developed by content experts representing a variety of pediatric emergency, trauma emergency, flight, and transport nursing. They are clinically experienced, trained in test writing and specifically in CEN test writing.
The CEN exam is offered on a daily basis, year-round at PSI testing sites across the United States and US territories.
Emergency nurse supervisors prefer RNs with a CEN. CENs have the latest specialty knowledge and best practices from continuing education.
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, and other types of specialty 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.
Go to the BCEN website to register. You will receive a confirmation email after you have successfully applied for the exam. You may then schedule an exam appointment using the link in your confirmation email or via the dashboard. 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.
Test takers who do not pass the CEN must wait 90 days to retest, and then reregister with PSI and pay the test fee again.
After you complete the CEN exam, you will be instructed to report to test center staff to receive your score report. Scores are reported in person in written form at the testing center, and also immediately sent to you via email. If you test with a Live Remote Proctor will see a PASS or FAIL result on screen upon completion of the CEN exam. You will also receive your results immediately via email.
Yes, a CEN certification is valid for four years. After that, you may apply for recertification. You may recertify by exam, or recertify by continuing education courses.
Practice tests, such as Tests.com's CEN Practice Exam, are a good way to study as it goes over the material you need to know while giving you a chance to practice your test taking skills. Additionally, study guides, text books, class notes, flashcards and videos are important study tools. It is best to use a wide range of test prep to get the most comprehensive coverage of the subject matter.
Tests.com has worked with instructors in nursing to create a CEN Practice Test to help you prepare for the CEN. Tests.com's TestSim online interactive platform allows you to tailor tests to the subjects you want to study and to form tests to fit your study schedule. You can even simulate the actual CEN exam by setting the number of questions and timer to the time period allowed for the actual test. Get experience reading multiple-choice questions and taking timed tests. Tests.com will help you pass your CEN on your way to a successful career as a CEN. Click here for a free CEN Practice Exam.
