CDN - Certified Dialysis Nurse

The Certified Dialysis Nurse (CDN) certification is a professional credential for registered nurses who specialize in the field of dialysis. This certification, offered by organizations such as the Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission (NNCC), recognizes the expertise and advanced knowledge of nurses who provide care to patients undergoing dialysis treatment. The CDN certification demonstrates a nurse’s proficiency in dialysis procedures, patient care, and machine operation.

Exam Format

The CDN examination assesses a candidate's knowledge and skills in nephrology nursing, specifically in dialysis.

Exam Length: 3 hours

Question Format: 150 multiple-choice questions covering areas such as principles of dialysis, patient care, dialysis modalities, and complications

Passing Criteria: A minimum score of 95 is required to pass the exam (answering at least 70% of questions correctly).

Exam Registration and Testing

Candidates must:

1. Meet the eligibility criteria set by the certifying organization, including a valid RN license and experience in nephrology nursing.

2. Register for the exam through the certifying organization's website and pay the examination fee.

3. Schedule the exam at an authorized testing center.

4. Follow the rules and regulations on the exam day, including presenting valid identification.

5. Complete the exam within the specified time frame.

6. Receive results, typically available several weeks after the exam.

1. Education and Experience: Hold an active RN license and acquire experience in nephrology nursing, particularly in dialysis.

2. Application: Apply for the CDN exam through the certifying organization.

3. Examination: Successfully pass the CDN certification exam.

4. Certification Issuance: Obtain certification upon meeting all requirements and passing the exam.

CDN certification typically requires renewal every 3 years. The renewal process usually involves:

1. Completion of continuing education credits related to nephrology nursing.

2. Submission of a renewal application and fee to the certifying organization.

3. Compliance with any additional renewal requirements specified by the organization.

Maintaining CDN certification necessitates ongoing education in nephrology and dialysis. This can include attending conferences, seminars, and completing relevant courses or workshops.

For the most accurate and current information on CDN certification, including specific eligibility criteria, exam content, and renewal processes, candidates should refer directly to the Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission (NNCC) or the relevant certifying body.

Preparatory resources for the CDN exam include textbooks on nephrology nursing, online courses, practice tests, and review courses specifically designed for the CDN exam.

Before pursuing CDN certification, candidates must be licensed as registered nurses (RNs) and have experience in nephrology nursing. After obtaining CDN certification, nurses may choose to pursue advanced certifications in nephrology nursing or other related specialties.

The Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission (NNCC) also offers the following:

• Certified in Nephrology Nursing (CNN)

• Certified Nephrology Nurse - Nurse Practitioner (CNN-NP)

• Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician (CCHT)

• Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician - Advanced (CCHT-A)