ANA Position Statement - Approved 12/11/09
In the nursing profession, the use of credentials is an
essential component to designate levels of attained education and
licensure, certification, and professional achievement. The listing of
credentials when identifying a nurse ensures credibility and competence
to the consumers of nursing care. Standardized use strengthens a unified
understanding of credentials among nurses, within the healthcare
delivery system, and for healthcare consumers. In an effort to establish
a recognizable and understandable credential usage process across all
spectrums of nursing, the following order of credentials is recommended:
Highest earned degree, mandated requirements (i.e. licensure), state
designations or requirements, national certifications, awards and
honors, other certifications.
Background Info (Members Only)