How to Verify a CPN

Certified pediatric nurses are known as CPNs in the medical world. These nurses are trained in all areas of nursing, but with specialized skills in caring for children. If you are considering hiring a private CPN to assist your child or want to check the credentials of a CPN working in your local medical facility, there are some resources available to assist you. Before you entrust your loved one to the care of a CPN, verify license and certification.

Instructions

• 1

  Contact the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB). The PNCB is a private agency that administers exams to certify pediatric nurses across the country. The PNCB provides verification services to potential employers, as well as state nursing boards. From the PNCB website, access the "Verify certification" link to inquire about a CPN's credentials. There is a $40 fee for this service.

• 2

  Contact state licensing officials. Each state has a licensing board for nurses and license verification is available to the public. To check out a CPN, go to your state's professional licensing authority website and conduct a search under nursing licenses for the CPN you are researching. For instance, the Department of State maintains these records in Georgia. On the Department of State website, a professional license directory includes nurses and a name search can be conducted. License number, along with status of whether the license is active or not, is included for no charge.

• 3

  Check references. If you are considering hiring a CPN for private care, ask for references and take the time to verify them. Do not rely on letters and phone calls. Meet a former employer in person at a public place, such as a medical facility office, to ensure the person named as a reference is a legitimate employer.