IV Certification: What Is It and How Do I Get It???
The term “certification” is widely used in healthcare but it’s often misunderstood.
Many nurses pursue certification in specialty areas such as Critical Care (CCRN), Infusion Therapy (CRNI), Oncology (OCN), or Vascular Access (VA-BC). These are formal certifications that require passing a national exam through recognized organizations.
What Counts as a “True” IV Certification?
A legitimate IV certification involves passing a national exam such as:
- CRNI (Certified Registered Nurse Infusion) – For RNs
- VA-BC (Vascular Access Board Certified) – For RNs, LPNs, and other healthcare professionals
These certifications are administered by national credentialing bodies and demonstrate advanced expertise in infusion/vascular access.
Do You Actually Need IV Certification?
Short Answer: Usually no, however:
- Some specialized roles (like IV Teams) may require it
- Requirements vary by employer
- Always check with your facility first
If Not Certification, What Do You Need?
If national certification is not required, you will likely need:
- A continuing education IV therapy course for your role: Nurses or Medical Assistants/Unlicensed Assistive Personnel
- Training that meets your State Professional Board of Regulation requirements for your discipline (RN, LPN, CMA): Florida, New Hampshire, or Other
- Training that meets your employer’s policies
Choose the Right Path for Your Role
Registered Nurses (RN)
- Most states do not require specific IV certification
- A structured IV therapy education program is typically sufficient
- Online programs are often acceptable
- Ideally any course would include a hand-on skills practice component, whenever possible
- All courses would be followed by supervised clinical practice to demonstrate competence, which is ultimately the responsibility of the employer
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN)
- Some states have specific IV certification requirements related to length of program and hands-on skills
- Know your state BON requirements for IV training
- Online programs are often acceptable
- Ideally any course would include a hand-on skills practice component, whether required or not
- All courses would be followed by supervised clinical practice to demonstrate competence, which is ultimately the responsibility of the employer
New Hampshire LPN’s Click Here
Medical Assistants & Unlicensed Personnel (UAP)
- Know your state laws before performing IV therapy!!
- When allowed, often must work under the direct supervision of a physician or nurse
- Some states strictly prohibit IV therapy practice for unlicensed individuals
- Ideally any course would include a hand-on skills practice component
- All courses would be followed by supervised clinical practice to demonstrate competence, which is ultimately the responsibility of the employer
Click Here for Medical Assistant & UAP IV Therapy
Recommended Path for Any Level of Provider
- Complete a formal IV therapy training program
- Follow with hands-on skills practice
- Get skills validated by a qualified preceptor