LPN CLTC - Certification in Long-Term Care

The long-term care workforce includes Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses (LPN/VN) and nursing assistants as part of the interdisciplinary team providing client care across the lifespan. As the population ages, the need for skilled workers to provide evidence-based and compassionate care will continue to increase.

The National Association for Practical Nurse Education and Service, Inc. (NAPNES) offers the Certification in Long-Term Care (CLTC) for LPN / LVNs working with chronically ill clients. This certification encompasses the care of all ages and replaces the NAPNES Gerontology Certification.

The Long Term Care certification applies to nurses who care for patients of all ages who suffer from chronic illnesses. Many people quickly think of the geriatric population when they hear “long-term care”. However, this certification is for nurses who care for any age patient that is chronically ill – including everything from newborns to the elderly.

Applicants for the CLTC exam must complete the application form located on the NAPNES website. An electronic and downloadable paper form is available. There are two costs to obtain this certification. The initial application fee is $100. The testing fee is $60 and additional attempts cost $50, and are paid at the time of the exam. You may have to pay additional dues if you do not take your exam within 60 days of applying for it.

NAPNES requires an active LPN/VN license in good standing to take the CLTC exam. After application submission, the applicant will receive clearance to register for the exam within 4-6 weeks. NAPNES recommends online applications and payment for faster processing. The applicant must be ready to sit for the CLTC exam within 60 days of application.

The exam content includes nursing theory in the care of the chronically ill, creating a comforting and safe environment, and a review of the anatomy/physiology of the long-term care client.

An optional asynchronous course review is available for purchase through the NAPNES for applicants seeking additional education.

After completing the CLTC exam, the candidate should print the affidavit, obtain notarization and submit it to NAPNES.

The CLTC certification is valid for three years. NAPNES recommends that nurses monitor their expiration; they may not receive a reminder of the expiration date. The recertification fee is $150 for members of NAPNES and non-members.

To renew the certification, the nurse must complete the recertification application and complete the CLTC exam with a passing score. The nurse should also submit documentation of an LPN/LVN license in good training.

NAPNES provides a variety of helpful resources for LPNs, including study resources for the certification exams. LPNs can also become certified in pharmacology, rehabilitation, and IV therapy. These professional certifications are an effective way to boost your resume, making you a more competitive applicant for jobs and potentially opening the door for a pay raise as well.

The NAPNES also offers the following certifications:

• LPN/LVN Pharmacology Certification (NCP)

• LPN/LVN Certification in Intravenous Therapy (IV-Therapy)

Other related certifications include NCBAC Certified Alzheimer Caregiver (CAC).