CDDN - Certified Developmental Disabilities Nurse
- Cost: Current DDNA members: $250 for a group exam (conference exam
- network/affiliate scheduled exam
- etc.) or $150 for a local testing center exam (at a local Prometric Testing Center). An additional sitting fee will be charged by Prometric
- Renews: Every 2 years
COURSE FORMAT
About
The Certified Developmental Disabilities Nurse (CDDN) certification is a professional credential for nurses who specialize in caring for individuals with developmental disabilities. Administered by the Developmental Disabilities Nurses Association (DDNA), this certification recognizes a nurse's expertise in providing comprehensive care to individuals with developmental disabilities across the lifespan. The CDDN certification is designed for RNs who are involved in assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of healthcare services for individuals with developmental disabilities in various settings.
Completion Time: 2 hours
Course Format
Exam Format
The group exam is held once per year at DDNA’s Annual Education Conference.
The CDDN exam is a computer-based exam that includes multiple-choice questions covering a range of topics related to developmental disabilities nursing, including health promotion, common syndromes and disorders, behavioral and psychological aspects, and community-based care.
The exam assesses knowledge in providing holistic care, health education, and advocacy for individuals with developmental disabilities.
A passing score is determined by the DDNA.
Registration involves an application process, meeting eligibility criteria such as work experience in developmental disabilities nursing, and paying the examination fee.
The exam is typically conducted at designated testing centers, adhering to specific protocols.
Certification
An active Registered Nurse (RN) license.
Clinical experience in the field of developmental disabilities nursing.
Renewal
CDDN certification requires renewal every 2 years.
Renewal involves completing continuing education credits in developmental disabilities nursing and submitting a recertification application with a fee.
Continuing Education
Specific CE requirements typically include courses or training related to developmental disabilities, patient care, and nursing practice.
Detailed records of these activities must be maintained and submitted during the renewal process.
For authoritative and detailed information on Certified Developmental Disabilities Nurse certification, including application guidelines, exam preparation materials, and renewal processes, it is recommended to consult the website or contact the office of the Developmental Disabilities Nurses Association (DDNA). The DDNA provides comprehensive support and resources for nurses in this specialized field.
Other Resources
Career Opportunities
CDDN-certified nurses work in various settings including community agencies, schools, residential facilities, and hospitals.
They play a crucial role in providing specialized care, health education, and advocacy for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Related Certifications
Frequently asked questions
Can I earn a Certified Developmental Disabilities Nurse (CDDN) online?
No you can't earn a Certified Developmental Disabilities Nurse (CDDN) online.
What organization offers the Certified Developmental Disabilities Nurse (CDDN)?
The Developmental Disabilities Nurse Association (DDNA) offers the Certified Developmental Disabilities Nurse (CDDN).
How often do I need to renew my Certified Developmental Disabilities Nurse (CDDN) certification?
You must renew your Certified Developmental Disabilities Nurse (CDDN) every year.
What are the continuing education (CE) requirements for recertifying the Certified Developmental Disabilities Nurse (CDDN)?
The continuing education (CE) requirements for recertifying the Certified Developmental Disabilities Nurse (CDDN) vary depending on the amount of practice hours in intellectual or development disability (IDD) a Registered Nurse, Licensed Practical Nurse, or Licensed Vocational Nurse has accumulated within the two-year recertification cycle. The CE requirements are as follows:
At least 1,000 hours of practice in IDD nursing, 25 CE contact hours specific to IDD nursing.
500-999 hours of practice in IDD nursing, 40 CE contact hours specific to IDD nursing.
Less than 500 hours of practice in IDD nursing, 60 CE contact hours specific to IDD nursing. This also applies to nurse who have zero hours of practice in IDD nursing.
Can an LPN/LVN sit for the Certified Developmental Disabilities Nurse (CDDN) exam?
Yes, an LPN/LVN can sit for the Certified Developmental Disabilities Nurse (CDDN) exam.
Who would benefit from obtaining the Certified Developmental Disabilities Nurse (CDDN) certification?
Registered Nurses (RNs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), or Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) who work with patients with developmental disabilities such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, Fragile X syndrome, cerebral palsy and many other developmental disorders would benefit by obtaining the Certified Developmental Disabilities Nurse (CDDN) certification.