Nursing in Kentucky: Requirements, Licensing, and Salary Outlook
As per the data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Kentucky boasts a population of almost 43,000 registered nurses (RNs) and over 4,000 nurse practitioners. The projected job growth rate for RNs in the state stands at 8.8%, mirroring the national growth projection. Notably, two major metropolitan areas along Kentucky’s borders present unique opportunities for nurses seeking employment beyond the state lines. If you aspire to acquire a nursing license in Kentucky, familiarize yourself with the licensure prerequisites set forth by the Kentucky State Board of Nursing.
Educational Attainment
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Both Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) credentials are acceptable.
Licensing Requirement
Attainment of a Registered Nurse License.
Financial Considerations
Licensing fees range from $150 to $200, with a renewal fee of $65.
Career Outlook
Anticipated growth of 8.8% from 2020 to 2030. Acquiring a nursing license through participation in a Kentucky nurse practitioner program or an RN program can open doors to diverse employment opportunities and a gratifying career dedicated to aiding others.
How to Become a Nurse in Kentucky
To legally practice nursing in Kentucky, individuals must fulfill specific criteria. This involves obtaining an ADN or a BSN from an accredited institution and successfully passing a national licensing examination before applying for state licensure.
1. Enroll in an ADN or BSN Program:
– ADN programs typically span two years, whereas BSN programs generally require four years for completion. Part-time students may extend their graduation timeline. BSN holders often enjoy higher salaries and increased job prospects.
2. Successfully Pass the NCLEX-RN for RN Licensure:
– The Kentucky Board of Nursing employs the National Council Licensure Examination for RNs (NCLEX-RN) to independently validate nurses.
3. Seek Employment Opportunities at Local Hospitals:
– Licensed nurses are eligible to apply for positions at hospitals and physician practices.
4. Advance Your Career Through Higher Education or Certification:
– Pursuing an advanced degree or obtaining specialty certification can enhance earning potential and broaden employment horizons, including opportunities as an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN).
5. Sustain and Renew Licensure and Certifications:
– Kentucky nurses must fulfill 14 contact hours of continuing education annually for license renewal. Various avenues, such as college coursework completion and contributions to peer-reviewed journals, offer opportunities to accumulate these contact hours.
Kentucky Board of Nursing
The Kentucky Board of Nursing plays a pivotal role in establishing and enforcing state laws governing nursing practice. This encompasses credentialing procedures, educational standards, and continuing education prerequisites for license renewal. Additionally, the nursing board offers valuable resources for nurses within the state, covering topics such as:
– License retirement procedures
– Forms and publications
– Licensure compact status
– Leadership development programs
– Catalog of continuing nursing education (CNE)
– Scope of practice guidelines for RNs and APRNs
– State legal opinions impacting nursing practice
– A platform for students and nurses to register complaints
How to Get Your Nursing License in Kentucky
Prospective nurses attain licensure by successfully completing the NCLEX-RN and submitting their fingerprints. Those already licensed in another state can apply for a Kentucky nursing license through endorsement, provided they meet specific educational criteria and pass the 35-question Jurisprudence Examination, delving into the legal aspects of practicing in Kentucky.
The Kentucky Board of Nursing generously provides a complimentary study guide for the Jurisprudence Examination on its website.
Licensure Requirements for New Nurses
The Kentucky State Board of Nursing mandates that all aspiring nurses fulfill particular eligibility criteria. Each requirement is imperative for securing licensure and engaging in nursing practice.
Eligibility Criteria for RN Licensure
RNs aspiring for licensure in Kentucky must adhere to the following standards. Detailed information is available on the Kentucky Board of Nursing website.
1. Obtain a degree from an accredited and approved nursing school.
2. Submit verification of completion from an approved accredited school.
3. Undergo state and federal background checks with proof of identification.
4. File fingerprints with the state police.
5. Pay a $51.25 background check fee.
6. Register with Pearson VUE and receive an authorization to test (ATT).
7. Pay the $200 NCLEX-RN application fee.
8. Pass the NCLEX-RN.
9. Pass the Kentucky Jurisprudence Examination.
10. Apply for state licensure ($125).
Steps to Apply for an RN License
New nurses can initiate the application for an RN license through examination on the Kentucky Board of Nursing website, involving the subsequent steps:
1. Submit an application with the Kentucky Board of Nursing ($125).
2. Register and pay for the NCLEX-RN with Pearson VUE ($200).
3. Undergo state and federal background check and fingerprinting.
4. Take the Kentucky Jurisprudence Examination ($15).
5. Submit proof of completion from an approved nursing program.
6. Provide an ATT document from Pearson VUE.
Applicants who attended nursing school outside of Kentucky must also fulfill additional requirements, including completing three hours of continuing education in domestic violence and 1.5 hours in pediatric head abuse trauma.
Licensure for Nurses from Different States
Nurses licensed in another state may pursue Kentucky licensure through endorsement. While the board aims to review these applications within 14 days, candidates with a disciplinary history or convictions may undergo a more extended review process, up to three months.
Steps to Apply for an RN License
For nurses without a multistate license, the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) facilitates practice in participating compact states, including Kentucky, without obtaining a new license. Nurses without a multistate license must apply for licensure by endorsement to receive a Kentucky nursing license.
1. Complete an endorsement application and pay the $165 nonrefundable application fee.
2. Take the Jurisprudence Examination ($15).
3. Undergo state and federal background checks.
4. Verify original out-of-state licensure.
5. Provide transcripts from any schools the applicant may have attended.
How to Renew Your Nursing License in Kentucky
The Kentucky Board of Nursing mandates annual license renewal by October 31. Failure to renew by this deadline prohibits nurses from legally practicing until renewal is completed.
RNs are required to pay a $65 fee and submit a renewal application online. Additionally, nurses must complete 14 approved CNE contact hours or seven contact hours and provide supplementary documentation of competency. The online application requests information including the applicant’s legal name on their Kentucky nursing license, last four digits of their social security number, nursing license number, payment method, documentation of completed CNE hours.
Salary and Employment Outlook for Nurses in Kentucky
With an annual average RN salary of $67,260 in Kentucky, which is notably lower than the national average of $80,010, it’s essential to consider the state’s lower cost of living, ranking it as the 18th most affordable state in 2020.
RNs seeking employment in Kentucky may encounter competition for job opportunities. A federal study from 2014 to 2030 estimates that the supply of RNs in Kentucky will exceed demand by 10,500.
The table below illustrates the five highest-paying metropolitan areas for RNs in Kentucky and the mean RN salaries in each. Kentucky stands out as many top-paying cities share borders with neighboring states, including Indiana, which is part of the NLC.
| Metropolitan Area | Mean Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN | $72,400 |
| Louisville/Jefferson County, KY-IN | $70,010 |
| Huntington — Ashland, WV-KY-OH | $67,820 |
| Evansville, IN-KY | $65,560 |
| Clarksville, TN-KY | $65,190 |
Source: BLS
Best Hospitals for Nurses in Kentucky
U.S. News & World Report has evaluated 119 hospitals in Kentucky and highlighted the state’s best. Top-ranking hospitals offer a comprehensive range of general and surgical services and hold the rank of either a best regional hospital or receive three or more high performance ratings in procedures or conditions.
1. University of Kentucky Albert B. Chandler Hospital (Lexington)
– Nationally ranked in one adult specialty and two children’s specialties.
– 12 high-performing marks in both specialties and procedures.
– Home to a level 1 trauma center with 569 acute care beds and 9,000 healthcare workers.
2. Baptist Health (Louisville)
– Received the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s (ANCC) Magnet designation for excellence in nursing services three times.
– The 519-bed hospital has been recognized among the best places to work in Kentucky 10 times.
3. St. Elizabeth Healthcare Edgewood-Covington Hospitals (Edgewood)
– Ranked third in Kentucky, offering general and specialty care, including virtual visits with healthcare professionals.
– The hospital’s nursing staff has received the ANCC’s Magnet designation for excellence, boasting 502 beds.
4. Baptist Health (Lexington)
– A major medical research and education center with a 434-bed tertiary care center known for excellence in heart and cancer care.
– Holds the ANCC’s Magnet designation since 2005.
5. Norton Healthcare (Louisville)
– A leading orthopedic care provider in the region.
– Norton Children’s hospital is the only freestanding, full-service pediatric hospital in Kentucky.
– Leads in cardiovascular and cancer care with 605 beds and over 4,000 nurses.
Resources for Nurses in Kentucky
Kentucky values the crucial role nurses play in healthcare, and various websites offer support and networking opportunities for nurses across the state.
1. Kentucky Board of Nursing
– Develops and enforces state laws governing the nursing profession under the Nurse Practice Act.
– Provides resources for nurses, including information on licensure, practice and education, and current legal opinions and laws.
2. Kentucky Nurses Association
– A full-service professional organization that promotes the RN role in healthcare delivery.
– Offers priority access to events and job postings.
3. Kentucky Association of Nurse Practitioners & Nurse-Midwives
– A professional association for APRNs offering networking opportunities, awards, and scholarships.
– Supports legislative initiatives to improve patient care and provides additional resources like a prescription guide and a CNE learning calendar.
4. Kentucky Organization of Nurse Leaders
– A nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing administrative leadership by providing educational programs, networking events, and scholarships.
– Membership is open to RNs serving in leadership positions.
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