0620 - Practical Nurse

Federal Occupation Description

Federal Occupation Description

This series covers positions which involve a variety of nursing care and practices which do not require full professional nurse education, but require the knowledges and skills represented by the licensing of practical and vocational nurses by a State, Territory, or the District of Columbia.

For job opportunities in this series, go to the Office of Personnel Management USAJOBS website.

Other Federal Occupations

It is not uncommon for individuals in one federal occupational series to perform duties related to another series within the same federal occupational group. To find out about the certifications for another series in the MEDICAL, HOSPITAL, DENTAL, AND PUBLIC HEALTH GROUP, click on that series below. Note that credentials have not yet been identified for all series – links are provided only to those series for which the identification of credentials has been completed. Additional series will be added over time.

  • 0601 - General Health Science Series
  • 0602 - Physician
  • 0603 - Physician Assistant Series
  • 0610 - Nurse Series
  • 0621 - Nursing Assistant Series
  • 0622 - Medical Supply Aide and Technician Series
  • 0625 - Autopsy Assistant Series
  • 0630 - Dietitian and Nutritionist Series
  • 0631 - Occupational Therapist Series
  • 0633 - Physical Therapist Series
  • 0635 - Kinesiotherapy Series
  • 0636 - Rehabilitation Therapy Assistant Series
  • 0637 - Manual Arts Therapist Series
  • 0638 - Recreation/Creative Arts Therapist Series
  • 0639 - Educational Therapist Series
  • 0640 - Health Aid and Technician Series
  • 0642 - Nuclear Medicine Technician Series
  • 0644 - Medical Technologist Series
  • 0645 - Medical Technician Series
  • 0646 - Pathology Technician Series
  • 0647 - Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Series
  • 0648 - Therapeutic Radiologic Technologist Series
  • 0649 - Medical Instrument Technician Series
  • 0650 - Medical Technical Assistant Series
  • 0651 - Respiratory Therapist Series
  • 0660 - Pharmacist Series
  • 0661 - Pharmacy Technician Series
  • 0662 - Optometrist Series
  • 0665 - Speech Pathology and Audiology Series
  • 0667 - Orthotist and Prosthetist Series
  • 0668 - Podiatrist Series
  • 0669 - Medical Records Administration Series
  • 0670 - Health System Administration Series
  • 0671 - Health System Specialist
  • 0672 - Prosthetic Representative Series
  • 0673 - Hospital Housekeeping Management Series
  • 0675 - Medical Records Technician
  • 0679 - Medical Support Assistance
  • 0680 - Dental Officer Series
  • 0681 - Dental Assistant
  • 0682 - Dental Hygiene Series
  • 0683 - Dental Laboratory Aid and Technician Series
  • 0685 - Public Health Program Specialist Series
  • 0688 - Sanitarian Series
  • 0690 - Industrial Hygiene Series
  • 0696 - Consumer Safety Series
  • 0698 - Environmental Health Technician Series
  • 0699 - Medical and Health Student Trainee Series
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This is an official U.S. Navy websiteUpdated: October 16, 2019
Click here to go to Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

Emergency Medical Responders (EMR) provide immediate lifesaving care to critical patients who access the emergency medical services system. EMRs have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide immediate lifesaving interventions while awaiting additional EMS resources to arrive. EMRs also provide assistance to higher-level personnel at the scene of emergencies and during transport. Emergency Medical Responders are a vital part of the comprehensive EMS response. Under medical oversight, Emergency Medical Responders perform basic interventions with minimal equipment. Candidates must successfully complete a state-approved EMR course, have a current CPR-BLS for Healthcare Providers or equivalent credential, and pass a state-approved EMR psychomotor exam and the EMR cognitive exam.

Click here to go to Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 5 years

Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) represents a medical assistant who has been certified by the Certifying Board of the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) to have ability to work in ambulatory settings, such as physicians' offices, clinics and group practices. Medical assistants have a great amount of variety in their jobs and are cross-trained to perform many administrative and clinical duties. The duties of medical assistants vary from office to office, depending on office location, size, and specialty. Clinical duties vary according to state law and include taking medical histories and recording vital signs, explaining treatment procedures to patients, preparing patients for examination, and assisting the physician during the examination. Medical assistants collect and prepare laboratory specimens or perform basic laboratory tests on the premises, dispose of contaminated supplies, and sterilize medical instruments. This is a mid-level certification and requires applicants to be graduates of an accredited medical assisting program and pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

Medical Assistant (MA) certification validates ability to perform routine administrative and clinical tasks to keep the offices and clinics of numerous health professionals running smoothly. Medical Assistant is an integral member of the health care delivery team, qualified by education and experience to work in the administrative office, the examining room and the physician office laboratory. They are also a liaison between the doctor and the patient. Duties for Medical Assistants vary depending on the state in which an MA practices. This is an intermediate skill level certification, and requires applicants to meet experience and/or education requirements.

Click here to go to Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The AMT Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) certification is an intermediate- level credential for medical professionals who perform complex laboratory tests for diagnosis, treatment, and disease prevention. MLTs prepare specimens, operate automated analyzers, and perform manual tests in accordance with detailed instructions. MLTs work under the supervision of Medical Laboratory Technologists or Laboratory Managers. Candidates are required to meet one of several options for educational, training and experiential requirements to meet the eligibility standards for taking the exam.

Click here to go to Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT), Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) provide out of hospital emergency medical care and transportation for critical and emergent patients who access the emergency medical services (EMS) system. EMTs have the basic knowledge and skills necessary to stabilize and safely transport patients ranging from non-emergency and routine medical transports to life threatening emergencies. Emergency Medical Technicians function as part of a comprehensive EMS response system, under medical oversight. Emergency Medical Technicians perform interventions with the basic equipment typically found on an ambulance. Candidates must be at least 18 years of age, have successfully completed a state-approved EMT course that meets or exceeds the National Emergency Medical Services Education Standards for the Emergency Medical Technician, have a current CPR-BLS for Healthcare Providers or equivalent credential, and pass both a state-approved EMT psychomotor exam and the EMT cognitive exam.

Click here to go to National Registered Paramedic (NRP) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

The National Registered Paramedic is an allied health professional whose primary focus is to provide advanced emergency medical care for critical and emergent patients who access the emergency medical system. This individual possesses the complex knowledge and skills necessary to provide patient care and transportation. Paramedics function as part of a comprehensive EMS response, under medical oversight. Paramedics perform interventions with the basic and advanced equipment typically found on an ambulance. Candidates must be at least 18 years of age, have current National Certification at the EMT level or a current state license at the EMT level or higher, have successfully completed state-approved and CAAHEP-accredited Paramedic program, have a current CPR-BLS for Healthcare Providers or equivalent credential, complete a psychomotor competency portfolio, and successfully complete both the NREMT Paramedic psychomotor exam and the Paramedic cognitive exam.

Click here to go to Registered Phlebotomy Technician (RPT) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

Registered Phlebotomy Technician (RPT) certification is for individuals whose primary function is to obtain patient blood specimens by venipuncture or micro techniques. The Phlebotomy Technician aids in the collection and transportation of other laboratory specimens, and may be involved with patient data entry. They are also required to draw blood for transfusions, donations and research. This is an intermediate skill level certification that requires applicants to be graduates of an accredited program or have 1,040 hours of acceptable work experience to qualify to take the written exam.

Click here to go to Certified Managed Care Nurse COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO), Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) certification is an entry-level credential for individuals who work in eye care. The COA is JCAHPO's initial core-level certification; the COA exam assesses candidates' knowledge of ophthalmic care and patient care. COAs work under the supervision and direction of ophthalmologists to perform ophthalmic clinical duties. Candidates must meet education requirements and pass an examination.

Click here to go to Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO), Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) certification is an advanced-level credential for individuals who work in eye care. The COMT is JCAHPO's third core-level designation after the entry-level Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) certification, and the intermediate-level Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) certification. COMTs work under the supervision and direction of ophthalmologists to perform ophthalmic clinical duties. COMTs are trained to do COA-level and COT-level tasks, plus more advanced-level technician work. Candidates must meet education and experiential requirements as well as pass an examination.

Click here to go to Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO), Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) is an intermediate level certification designed for the Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) or program graduate who intends to advance in the eye care field. COTs perform ophthalmic clinical duties under the supervision and direction of ophthalmologists. To earn the COT certification, candidates must meet one of the education/training and/or experience requirement options and pass both a written exam and a practical exam. COT candidates are eligible to take the practical exam after successfully completing the written exam.

Click here to go to Ophthalmic Surgical Assisting (OSA) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The Ophthalmic Surgical Assisting certification is one of JCAHPO's four specialty certification levels. The Ophthalmic Surgical Assistant certification is available to certified ophthalmic medical personnel with a core level of certification who are interested in helping ophthalmologists with a variety of important surgical eye procedures. Ophthalmic Surgical Assisting is a sub-specialty certification level that may be attached to a JCAHPO core certification (COA, COT, or COMT). Certificants work in a very specific division of the eye care field.

Click here to go to ASPT-Certified Phlebotomy Technician COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to EKG (Electrocardiography) Technician COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Patient Care Technician COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Certified Hemodialysis Nurse (CHN) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The BONENT Certified Hemodialysis Nurse (CHN) examination measures nursing proficiency in certain skills, tasks and general areas of knowledge in hemodialysis. The examination tests the following four major domains of practice and tasks performed in the scope of hemodialysis nursing: supervision/administration, dialysis and related issues, professional development and environmental control. This is a high level certification and requires applicants to have RN with valid license and one year of experience in an ESRD facility (copy of valid license).

Click here to go to Certified Hemodialysis Technician (CHT) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The BONENT Certified Hemodialysis Technologist/Technician (CHT) examination measures technical proficiency in certain skills, and general areas of knowledge in hemodialysis. The examination tests the following five major domains of practice and tasks performed in the scope of hemodialysis technology: patient care, machine technology, water treatment, infection control, and education/personal development. This is an entry level certification and requires a high school diploma and one year experience in nephrology patient care, and current active participation in an ESRD facility.

Click here to go to Certified Peritoneal Dialysis Nurse (CPDN) COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Certified Urologic Associate (CUA) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The Certification Board for Urologic Nurses and Associates, Certified Urologic Associate (CUA) is a mid-level certification. This certification is designed to measure the associate's ability to detect alterations in genitourinary anatomy and physiology, differentiate between normal and abnormal growth and development, identify adult and pediatric genitourinary problems, and describe treatment modalities for adult and pediatric urologic problems. CUAs must also examine laboratory findings with respect to genitourinary pathology, classify drugs used to treat urologic problems, and compare diagnostic studies used to evaluate genitourinary alterations. Certifying requirements include a current licensure as a practical/vocational nurse, and 1 year of experience as an LPN/LVN in urology nursing practice or completion of an accredited training program and one year of practice in the field of urology, or three (3) years of in-service training under the supervision of a practicing urologist.

Click here to go to Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician (CCHT) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician (CCHT) validates technical proficiency in certain skills and general areas of knowledge related to Hemodialysis. Hemodialysis technician sets up and monitors dialysis machines and systems for correct functioning, responds to visual and audible alarms during the dialysis treatment and dismantles, cleans and disinfects dialysis machines and equipment. The certification examination is distributed over four areas: clinical, technical, environment, and role. This is an entry level certification and requires applicants to hold minimum of high school diploma and completion of a training program for hemodialysis patient care technicians that included both classroom instruction and supervised clinical experience.

Click here to go to National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 1 year

The NCCT National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) is an entry-level health care credential. Medical Assistants perform both clinical and administrative tasks necessary for day-to-day operations of physician offices and other health care practices. Medical Assistants' administrative duties vary by employer. Clinical duties may also vary by practice. NCMAs comply with state and federal regulations. NCCT requires that candidates meet educational and other requirements.

Click here to go to National Certified Phlebotomy Technician (NCPT) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 1 year

The NCCT National Certified Phlebotomy Technician (NCPT) credential is an intermediate to entry-level health care certification. Individuals who become NCPTs meet both state and national standards for knowledge and skills that are necessary for the practice of phlebotomy. Phlebotomists collect and handle blood specimens used in diagnoses, drug testing, and other for health-related needs. They work directly with patients. NCCT requires that candidates meet educational and other requirements.

Click here to go to National Certified ECG Technician (NCET) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 1 year

The NCCT Electrocardiograph Technician (NCET) is an entry-level health care credential. ECG Technicians work in hospitals, laboratories, cardiologists' offices, and in other practices. NCETs record and monitor electrical impulses transmitted by a patient's heart. Physicians and cardiologists interpret the results of these tests to diagnose and treat cardiovascular conditions and diseases. NCETs possess knowledge and skills in the areas of medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, basic arrhythmias, problem solving non-arrhythmic irregularities, and equipment/supplies. NCCT requires that candidates meet educational and other requirements.

Click here to go to National Certified Patient Care Technician (NCPCT) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 1 year

The NCCT National Patient Care Technician (NCPCT) is an entry-level certification. NCPCTs possess the knowledge necessary to perform duties and tasks necessary for providing health care to patients. The Patient Care Technician's role varies across States but often they are responsible for assisting physicians, nurses, and other support staff in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, assisted living facilities, or nursing homes. The PCTs must possess knowledge and skills in the areas of medical terminology, anatomy and physiology. They assist with activities of daily living, collect and take vital signs, have knowledge of medical law and ethics, support infection control, perform tasks involved in phlebotomy and electrocardiography. NCCT requires that candidates meet educational and other requirements.

Click here to go to Tech in Surgery - Certified (TS-C) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 1 year

The National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT), Tech in Surgery (TS-C) is an intermediate-level surgical technologist credential. TS-Cs are allied health professionals responsible for various tasks pre-, intra-, and post- operatively. TS-Cs maintain asepsis during surgery, anticipating the surgeon's needs while remaining attentive to the surgical procedure to ensure a safe environment for the patient. Surgical technologists work under the supervision of surgeons, registered nurses, and other surgical personnel; their duties vary depending upon the facility. TS-Cs must meet educational, training, and other eligibility requirements.

Click here to go to NAPNES Certified in Pharmacology (LPN/LVN, NCP) COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Long-Term Care Certification COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to IV Therapy COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Gerontology COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to NHA-Certified Phlebotomy Technician (NHA-CPT) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

The National Healthcareer Association (NHA), Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) is an entry-level certification for clinical team members at hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, and blood donor centers. A Phlebotomy Technician is a health care professional responsible for the collection and handling of blood specimens used in diagnosing and tracking illnesses, drug testing, or other health-related areas requiring a blood sample. Candidates must take a written exam.

Click here to go to Certified EKG Technician (CET) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

The National Healthcareer Association (NHA), Certified EKG Technician (CET) is an entry-level credential for allied healthcare professionals. EKG Technicians perform or prepare patients for diagnostic tests related to the heart, these include EKGs, Holter monitoring, and stress testing. Applicants for the CET are required to pass an exam, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and meet training or experience requirements.

Click here to go to Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

The National Healthcare Association (NHA), Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) is an entry-level certification for professionals who support licensed pharmacists by providing medication and other healthcare products to patients. Tasks commonly performed by CPhTs include measuring medication amounts, packaging and labeling prescriptions, establishing and maintaining patient records, accepting payment for prescriptions, processing insurance claims, and managing inventory. Eligibility requirements for pharmacy technicians vary by State. To qualify for the NHA CPhT applicants must meet experience and training requirements and must also pass the exam.

Click here to go to Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

The National Healthcareer Association (NHA), Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) is an intermediate-level allied health care professional credential. CCMAs specialize in procedures commonly performed in ambulatory health care settings. Medical assistants perform both clinical and administrative duties and assist a variety of providers including physicians, nurse practitioners and physician assistants. They typically work in medical offices, clinics, urgent care centers and may work in general medicine or specialty practices. Applicants for the CCMA are required to pass an exam, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and meet training or experience requirements.

Click here to go to Certified Phlebotomist Technologist (CPT) COOL Snapshot page.

Certified Phlebotomist Technologist (CPT) is an entry-level certification. Phlebotomy is the act of drawing blood either for testing or transfusion. It is a skill employed by physicians and many professionals in allied health fields, including medical assistants, paramedics, and clinical laboratory scientists. Phlebotomists collect blood primarily by performing venipuncture and, for collection of minute quantities of blood, fingersticks. Blood may be collected from infants by means of a heel stick. Specially trained phlebotomists collect arterial blood samples from the radial artery of the wrist or brachial artery in the antecubital area (bend in the arm). Additional information including testing and experience requirements are available from the certifying agencies web site.

Click here to go to National Council Licensure Examination for Practical/Vocational Nurses (NCLEX-PN) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: varies

The National Council Licensure Examination for Practical/Vocational Nurses (NCLEX-PN) is offered by National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). Applicants are required to pass this exam as one of the prerequisite for state license requirement. Each state requires candidates for licensure to meet set requirements that include passing NCLEX-PN examination and education/ training from the state approved nursing school. Individual states administer NCLEX-PN exam to qualifying candidates. Candidates must refer to their state Board of Nursing for details about requirements, application process and the fees involved in sitting for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam. Links to all boards of nursing websites and contact information is available on the NCSBN's Contact a Board of Nursing page.

Click here to go to Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

The National Healthcareer Association (NHA), Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A) is an entry-level certification for allied healthcare professionals who assist with the critical day-to-day care of patients. CPCT/As work with doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals to provide direct patient care. Some of the tasks that CPCT/As perform in their work include bathing, feeding, providing catheter care, acquiring, distributing, and administering patient care supplies, performing safety checks and ensuring cleanliness in patient rooms, accommodating special needs of patients, obtaining EKG readings and monitor vital signs, performing phlebotomy procedures, providing emotional support to patients and families, particularly coping with grief and death. CPCT/A applicants must pass the written exam, in addition to meeting education and training or work experience eligibility requirements.

Click here to go to Wound Care Certification COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Certified Hospice and Palliative Nursing Assistant COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Certified Corrections Nurse (CCN) COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Certified Wound Care Associate (CWCA) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 1 year

The American Board of Wound Management (ABWM), Certified Wound Care Associate (CWCA) certification demonstrates specialized knowledge in wound management. Candidates must have a minimum of three years of wound care related experience. The CWCA is available to associate degree RNs, LPNs, LVNs, PTAs, all certified healthcare assistants, healthcare administrators, dieticians, sales and marketing professionals, and academic researchers. Candidates must possess a full and unrestricted professional license in at least one state, and in all states in which the candidate currently practices. Candidates must successfully complete the eligibility review and pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Certified Medical Laboratory Assistant (CMLA) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

Certified Medical Laboratory Assistant (CMLA) certification validates ability to perform, or assist in performing, clinical laboratory and administrative tasks. This is an entry level certification for medical laboratory assistants who serve a key role in hospitals, independent reference laboratories, and physicians' offices. CMLAs must like challenge and responsibility as well as be accurate, work well under pressure and communicate effectively. Candidates must meet minimum education and/or experience requirements.

Click here to go to National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: varies

The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) validates the competencies of entry-level nurse aides/nursing assistants (NAs). The NNAAP consists of two components: a written or oral portion and a skills demonstration portion. Each candidate must successfully complete both components of the exam before a state can add their name to the state nurse aide registry. The state registry is used to assure employers that the potential hire has met the federal and state requirements for employment. 25 NCSBN jurisdictions utilize the NNAAP exam to determine nurse aide competency. Every state has its own curriculum and program requirements for the nurse aide program. Program contact information can be found on the Nurse Aide Registries.

Click here to go to Medication Aide Certification Examination (MACE) COOL Snapshot page.

The National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Inc. (NCSBN), Medication Aide Certification Examination (MACE) is a national medication aide certification exam typically administered to nurse aides who choose to receive additional training to become certified medication aides. Once certified, these medication aides serve an important role in hospitals and long-term care facilities by helping distribute medications and monitoring for adverse reactions. Before taking the MACE, candidates must contact the medication aide program in their state and meet training/educational program requirements.

Click here to go to Certified Procurement Transplant Coordinator COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Certified Clinical Transplant Coordinator COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Certified Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practitioner (CPRP) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The Certified Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practitioner credential (CPRP), validates that an individual has mastered the principles of psychiatric rehabilitation and understands how to implement them in practice. CPRPs incorporate the most successful and cost-effective practices for adults with severe and persistent mental illness and ensure that your staff has mastered the principles, skills and knowledge necessary to carry out those practices. In order to become certified, candidates must meet strict requirements in academia, psychiatric rehabilitation work experience, and continuing education & training hours. Minimum requirements include a high school diploma or GED, 24 months of full-time experience, and 45 training hours in psychiatric rehabilitation.

Click here to go to Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

The Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) provides basic and limited advanced emergency medical care and transportation for critical and emergent patients who access the emergency medical system. AEMTs possess basic knowledge and skills necessary to provide patient care and transportation and function as part of a comprehensive EMS response, under medical oversight. AEMTs perform interventions with the basic and advanced equipment typically found on an ambulance. Candidates must be 18 years of age or older, possess current National Certification at the EMT level or a current state license at the EMT level or higher, have completed a state-approved AEMT course, have a current CPR-BLS for Healthcare Providers or equivalent credential, and pass both the National Registry Advanced Emergency Medical Technician psychomotor exam and the Advanced EMT Cognitive Exam.

Click here to go to Certified Hospice and Palliative Licensed Nurse COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Vascular Access Board Certified COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The Vascular Access Certification Corporation (VACC), Vascular Access-Board Certification (VA-BC) is a mid-career level certification designed for clinical professionals to include but not limited to; MD's, PA's, NP's, RN's, LPN/LVN's, RT's, RRT's, Infection Control, Educators, EMS professionals, that actively work in the field of vascular access. Candidates must have thorough knowledge and skills required for competent practice in vascular access. Knowledge can be obtained through work experiences and independent learning, as well as through formal educational programs. Candidates must take and pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Certified Clinical Medical Assistant Specialist (CCMAS) COOL Snapshot page.

The AECA Certified Clinical Medical Assistant Specialist (CCMAS) credential is an entry-level medical assistant credential; AECA recommends that candidates have one year of related work experience. CCMASs work under the direct supervision of a physician performing clinical skills. These skills include and are not limited to: recording vital signs like temperature, pulse rate, respiratory rate and blood pressure, measuring height and weight, preparing the examination room to be ready for the physician to examine the patient, performing different modes of electrocardiography, also phlebotomy-related tasks, and other lab test-related tasks. In addition to the clinical skills described above, CCMAS candidates and those certified are expected to have administrative and clerical skills.

Click here to go to Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant COOL Snapshot page.

The AECA Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A) credential is an entry-level allied healthcare technician certification; AECA requires that candidates have one year of related experience or the equivalent training/education. CPCT/As work under the direct supervision of a nurse performing clinical skills; task include and are not limited to providing basic patient care, (feed, bathe, dress, groom, or move patients), or changing linens, also providing or supporting patient transfer or transport. CPCT/As record vital signs such as temperature, pulse rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure. CPCT/As measure height and weight, and prepare examination rooms for patient visits. CPCT/As perform different modes of electrocardiography (EKG) such as 12 lead EKG, 10 lead EKG, 3 lead EKG, 5 lead EKG, 15 lead EKG, or an EKG on a dextrocardiac individual. CPCT/As may be asked to perform additional EKG-type tasks including holter monitors and telemetry. CPCT/As possess a wide variety of medical-technician specialties including- phlebotomy skills, glucose testing skills, bleeding time test skills, blood film/blood smear skills, urinalysis, oral swab or nasopharyngeal swab; additional skills required may include range of motion exercises, gait techniques, patient protection and hygiene, patient positioning, and other tasks.

Click here to go to Certified Phlebotomy Technician COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 1 year

The AECA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) is an entry-level phlebotomy certification; AECA requires that candidates have one year of related experience or the equivalent training/education. Certified Phlebotomy Technicians draw blood for tests, transfusions, donations, or research; they may explain the procedure to patients and assist in the recovery of patients. Phlebotomy Technicians have a variety of clinical, administrative, and clerical skills. Candidates and those certified possesses the necessary skills and abilities to perform phlebotomy-related tasks which include evacuated tube method, butterfly technique also known as winged infusion technique, syringe method, capillary stick blood collection, glucose testing, bleeding-time testing, blood film/blood smear skills, and blood collection. Other clinical skills these technicians possess include urinalysis, oral swab or nasopharyngeal swab.

Click here to go to Activity Certified Consultant (ACC) COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Home Care Coding Specialist - Diagnosis (HCS-D) COOL Snapshot page.

The Board of Medical Specialty Coding & Compliance (BMSC), Home Care Coding Specialist - Diagnosis (HCS-D) certification is for professionals skilled in classifying medical data from home health patient records. HCS-D candidates must have a high school diploma from a U.S. high school or have an equivalent background. Although not required, it is recommended that candidates have at least two years of on-the-job experience in home care code for multiple case types and have completed coursework in anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, pathophysiology, and pharmacology, or demonstrate proficiency in these areas. Candidates must pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Home Care Clinical Specialist - OASIS (HCS-O) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 1 year

The Board of Medical Specialty Coding and Compliance (BMSC), Home Care Clinical Specialist – OASIS (HCS-O) certification is held by clinicians who demonstrate clinical skills and judgment necessary to assess a patient’s condition correctly. HCS-O credential holders include Registered Nurses, Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Speech Language Pathologists, Coding Specialists, Billing Specialists, Compliance Directors, Quality Assurance Directors, Administrators, and Agency Directors. Candidates must have, at a minimum, a high school diploma or have an equivalent background. A two-year degree is highly recommended and at least two years of on-the-job experience in home care assessment and OASIS application or quality assurance related to OASIS comprehensive assessments. Candidates should have a working knowledge of medical terminology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, anatomy and physiology in order to comprehend and apply clinical information. All candidates must pass a written examination.

Click here to go to Home Care Coding Specialist - Hospice (HCS-H) COOL Snapshot page.

The Board of Medical Specialty Coding & Compliance (BMSC), Home Care Coding Specialist - Hospice (HCS-H) certification is for professionals skilled in classifying medical data from hospice patient records. HCS-H candidates must have a high school diploma from a U.S. high school or have an equivalent background. Although not required, it is recommended that candidates have at least two years of on-the-job experience in hospice coding for multiple case types and have completed coursework in anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, pathophysiology, and pharmacology, or demonstrate proficiency in these areas. Candidates must pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Community Paramedic Certification (CP-C) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The International Board of Specialty Certification (IBSC), Community Paramedic Certification (CP-C) is for experienced paramedics who provide services beyond traditional emergency care and transport. Community paramedics care for patients at home or in other non-urgent settings outside of a hospital under the supervision of a physician or advanced practice provider. To earn the CP-C, candidates must hold an unrestricted license or certificate to practice as a paramedic and pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Home Care Specialist - Compliance (HCS-C) COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

In Demand

This certification is considered in demand

GI Bill®

Reimbursement for exam fees has been approved for payment through the GI Bill. Click for external link to GI Bill licensing and certification information.

Note: GI Bill approval data is updated quarterly. For the latest information, visit the WEAMS Licenses/Certifications Search page. Make sure to select "Both" in the LAC Category Type drop-down before searching.

Click here to go to the GI Bill site.

ANSI

This credential has been accredited by ANSI. Click for external link to the ANSI web site.

ICAC

This credential has been accredited by ICAC. Click for external link to the ICAC web site.

NCCA

This credentialing program has been accredited by NCCA. Click for external link to the NCCA web site.

ABSNC

This credential has been accredited by ABSNC. Click for external link to the ABSNC web site.

IAS

This credential has been accredited by IAS. Click for external link to the IAS web site.

Some

Credential is related to some tasks associated with the duties of the rating (at least one critical task but less than 80%)

Most

Credential is directly related to most of the major duties associated with the rating (at least 80%)

Other

Credential is related to this military occupation, but is more advanced or specialized and therefore will likely require additional education, training, or experience

Most – Tasks in these careers match most duties of the military job or specialty (approximately 80% or greater)
Some – Tasks in these careers match some duties of the military job or specialty (greater than 20% but less than 80%)
Bright Outlook – new job opportunities are very likely in the future for this job
Registered Apprenticeship
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