GDCN (NADONA) - Geriatric Diabetic Certified Nurse

The Geriatric Diabetic Certified Nurse certification is designed for registered nurses specializing in managing diabetes in the geriatric population. This certification demonstrates advanced knowledge and skills in addressing the unique challenges and needs of elderly diabetic patients.

For additional information, please contact:

Heather Tann
Education Coordinator,
[email protected]
513-791-3679

Cindy Fronning RN-BC, CDONA, FACDONA, RAC-CT, IP-BC, AS-BC
Director of Education, NADONA
[email protected]
651-324-8415

Completion Time: Single session exam

Eligibility and Certification Requirements

• A current, active RN license.

• Experience in geriatric nursing and diabetes care, often quantified by a minimum number of hours or years in clinical practice.

• Completion of additional education or training specific to geriatric diabetes management.

• Passing a certification examination in geriatric diabetic nursing, if available.

Exam Format

If an exam is required, it typically includes multiple-choice questions covering diabetes pathophysiology, management strategies, nutritional needs, and complications specific to the geriatric population.

Certification Process

Gain relevant experience in geriatric nursing focusing on diabetes care and management.

Complete any necessary additional education or specialized training in geriatric diabetes.

Apply for certification through a recognized nursing certifying body that offers a specialty in geriatric diabetic nursing.

Meet the eligibility criteria and pass the certification examination, if required.

Geriatric Diabetic Certified Nurse certification requires renewal every 3 years.

Renewal usually involves completing continuing education credits focused on geriatric diabetes care and possibly passing a recertification exam.

Continuing education for this certification may include advances in diabetes treatment, geriatric care techniques, new research in diabetes management, and emerging trends in elderly care.

For specific information regarding Geriatric Diabetic Certified Nurse certification, including eligibility criteria, examination details, and renewal processes, it is recommended to consult directly with professional nursing organizations or certifying bodies that focus on geriatric and diabetic nursing. These organizations provide the necessary resources, training, and certification standards for nurses specializing in the care of elderly diabetic patients.

Career Opportunities

Nurses with this certification often work in settings such as long-term care facilities, geriatric practices, community health settings, and hospitals.

They provide specialized care to elderly patients with diabetes, manage treatment plans, educate patients and families, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.

The NADONA also offers the following certifications:

• Assisted Living Nurse Certificate (CALN)

• Certified Director of Nursing Administration/Long Term Care (CDONA-LTC)

• Licensed Practical Nurse Certification (CLPN)

• Geriatric Diabetic Certified Professional (GDCP)

Other related certifications include:

• ADCES Board Certified - Advanced Diabetes Management (BC-ADM)

• CBDCE Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES)