Orthopaedic Nurse Practitioner-Certified – ONP-C (ONCB)
By Raising Careers Staff | Updated: August 2019
OVERVIEW
Certification Description
The Orthopaedic Nurse Practitioner-Certified (ONP-C) certification certifies that an individual has the experience and knowledge to work with patients that suffer from orthopedic conditions. An orthopedic nurse practitioner can conduct physical exams, prescribe medications and establish a treatment plan.
Skills Focus
The certification focuses on the following areas:
- Understanding of the musculoskeletal system
- Familiarity with treatment for orthopedic trauma and sports injuries
- Knowledge of metabolic bone disorders
- Understanding of different pain management techniques
- Competency working with positioning parameters
- Knowledge of neuromuscular system
- Familiarity with emotional support strategies
Exam Objectives
View the exam objectives/content outline
Exam Details
- Issuing Organization: Orthopaedic Nurses Certification Board (ONCB)
- Prerequisites: Applicant must have a master’s degree, or higher, in nursing from an APRN nursing program; applicant must be a current RN; applicant has worked as an RN or APRN full time for 3+ years; applicant must have completed 2,000+ hours of experience in orthopedic nursing in the last 3 years
- Questions: 150 (135 scored)
- Time: 180 minutes
- Cost: $340 for NAON members if applying online, $365 for NAON members if applying with paper application, $455 for non-members if applying online and $480 for non-members if applying with paper application
- Re-certification and certification renewal: Every 5 years
- Download the ONCB Handbook
Other relevant details: Exams are given at PSI testing centers
ONP-C (ONCB) Careers
Orthopaedic Nurse Practitioner Careers
Jobs you can get with an ONP-C certification (additional requirements may apply):
- Nurse Practitioner (NP)
- Orthopedic Nurse Practitioner
Salary (Base Level)
A specialty certification may not only increase your employability, but may increase your earnings potential as well. Keep in mind that your actual salary can vary substantially depending on region, job description and employer expectations. Reference salary for the Nurse Practitioner (NP) shown. Salary based on 2019 data.
National average per year: $113,930*
National average per hour: $54.78*
*Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
ONP-C (ONCB) Training
Exam Preparation
- Study from the key topics on the Exam Objectives/Content Outline
- Review study guides and available study resources
- Use flashcards as a study aid
- Complete sample questions
- Take practice tests
Important: This is not a complete list of all certification training and learning options available. Remember to thoroughly research and choose study materials that fit your learning style and needs. This step is crucial to help you succeed in your certification exam.
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