GS-C (GAPNA) - APRN Gerontological Specialist Certification

The Tech in APRN Gerontological Specialist Certification (GS-C) is a professional credential for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) who specialize in caring for older adults. This certification validates an APRN's expertise in gerontological nursing, encompassing assessment, diagnosis, and management of health issues in the geriatric population.

Completion Time: 4 hours

Eligibility and Certification Requirements

• Current, active RN license.

• Graduate degree in nursing from an accredited APRN program focusing on gerontological care.

• Clinical experience in gerontological nursing, including a specified number of hours in direct care of older adults.

• Passing a gerontological specialist certification examination.

Cost: $295 for GAPNA members, $395 for non-GAPNA members.

Exam Format

The computer-based examination typically includes 175 multiple-choice questions covering advanced practice gerontological nursing, including pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, and management strategies for common health problems in older adults.

Certification Process

Apply for the gerontological specialist certification through a certifying organization like ANCC or GAPNA.

Meet the eligibility criteria, including educational and clinical experience requirements.

Successfully pass the certification examination. The GAPNA exam requires a passing score of 76% or greater.

Gerontological specialist certification generally requires renewal every 5 years.

Renewal involves completing continuing education credits specific to gerontological nursing and paying a recertification fee.

Continuing education for APRN Gerontological Specialists may include updates in geriatric pharmacology, emerging trends in aging and health, and best practices in the management of common geriatric syndromes.

For specific information regarding Tech in APRN Gerontological Specialist Certification, including eligibility criteria, examination details, approved educational programs, and renewal processes, it is recommended to consult directly with professional nursing organizations such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the Gerontological Advanced Practice Nurses Association (GAPNA). These organizations provide comprehensive resources and standards for APRNs specializing in gerontological care.

Career Opportunities

APRN Gerontological Specialists work in various settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, outpatient clinics, and home healthcare services.

They provide comprehensive care for older adults, including chronic disease management, preventive care, and coordination of services to meet the complex needs of the geriatric population.

Other related certifications include:

• ANCC Gerontological Nursing Certification (GERO-BC)

• ANCC Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certification (AGPCNP-BC)

• ANCC Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certification (AGACNP-BC)

• ANCC Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist Certification (AGCNS-BC)

• AACN Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nursing Specialist (ACCNS-AG)

• AACN Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG)