Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN) Exam Study Guide


The Board of Certification of Emergency Nursing first administered the certified nursing exam in 1980. Since then BCEN has included several other tests for nursing that are now administered on computers. Presently, BCEN has added Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse Examination.

The exam is meant for the nurses in the emergency settings who can demonstrate their skills, expertise in the pediatric emergency system. BCEN is the only source available for pediatric emergency nurses which helps build confidence, care for the patients they serve. BCEN has partnered with a test development company to ensure that the exam is written in the best practice format. Earning this certification is a national recognition that allows holders to display their accreditation.

Eligibility for Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN) Exam

There are certainly professional and legal requirements that should be meant for candidates to appear in the exam. To qualify for this exam, candidates must hold a current and unrestricted registered nurse license in the United States and its territories. A nursing certificate is also required that must be equivalent to a Registered nurse in the United States.

To qualify, candidates must have a valid and unrestricted US or equivalent license with the practice of at least 2 years.

Syllabus for Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN) Exam

The syllabus for the Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN) Exam covers the following core areas-

  • Pediatric triage and assessment
  • Medical emergencies
  • Pediatric trauma
  • Technical skills in pediatric emergency nursing
  • Pediatric Upper Respiratory Tract Conditions
  • Pediatric Cardiovascular Conditions
  • Pediatric Neurological Conditions
  • Pediatric Gastrointestinal Conditions
  • Emergency Neonatal conditions
  • Behavioral and Psychological Emergencies
  • Legal and Professional Issues in Pediatric Emergency Nursing
  • Special considerations

Format for Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN) Exam

The examinations are delivered by computer at the Pearson VUE testing centers. They are administered daily Monday through Friday as per the convenience of the candidate. The examination consists of 175 questions out of which 25 are not scored.

If the candidates are appearing via live remote proctoring then the results will appear on the screen immediately. If the test is taken at the center then the official report will be received by mail after a few days.

How to Apply for Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN) Exam

Candidates can apply for the exam online and make the payments after checking the eligibility requirements. Immediately after confirming the payment information, candidates will be taken to confirmation for the form completion. It will take 3 to 4 weeks for BCEN to complete the application after the receipt of the full payment. Candidates can choose the testing center with the exam date and time. They can also request for live remote proctor but have to ensure that the requirements are met.

The cost for the fees would vary depending upon the membership status and certification status.

Test-taking strategies

  • Candidates must prepare a definitive checklist keeping in consideration the core area topics of the Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN) Exam.
  • Candidates must identify the CPEN content outline and take note of the topics that hold more weight.
  • Candidates must practice the sample questions as presented to demonstrate and understand the format as used in the BCEN certification exam.
  • They must start taking the practice sessions to determine the weak areas that need to be enhanced and practiced.

Benefit of Certification Badge

BCEN awards the digital badge to the certified nurses. It is more than a logo and is a valuable tool that can help you in your career in nursing. Some of these benefits include-

  • Customized logo identifying the certification.
  • An effective way for potential employers to learn about your qualifications.
  • It is a quick way for employers to verify the certification.

Benefit of taking the Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN) Exam

The certification helps you get national recognition as you can use it to display the credential as part of your signature. They are based on specialty nursing role delineation studies. It is an earned credential that helps demonstrate your specialized knowledge and skills. Since it is awarded by the third-party organization BCEN, therefore the holiday holds more value as the candidates receive it after meeting the strict eligibility criteria and conditions. It helps identify that the holder has maintained a required level of expertise in the specialty area.


Study Guide And Test Preparation For CPEN Exam


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