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Sample Bio Data for Nurses document sample
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Provider Unit Guidelines - 2010
General Information
Eligibility Requirements
Intent to Apply Form
Intent to Reapply Form
Approval Process For Provider Unit Applications
Submit Provider Unit Application
First Time Provider Unit Applicant
Reapplying Provider Unit Applicant
Review Process
Types of Action Taken
Appeal Process
Provider Unit Changes Must Be Reported
Criteria for Approval as a Provider Unit
Sample Completed Provider Unit Application Form
Attestation Statement Regarding Operational Requirements
Sample Completed Bio Data Form for Provider Unit Personnel
Sample Completed Provider Unit Evaluation Form
Provider Unit Application Blank Forms
Intent to Apply Form
Intent to Reapply Form
Provider Unit Application Form
Attestation Statement Regarding Operational Requirements
Bio Data Form for Provider Unit Personnel
Provider Unit Evaluation Form
Frequently Asked Questions
Washington State Nurses Association
575 Andover Park West, Suite 101
Seattle, Washington 98188
206-575-7979
Continuing Education Approval DATE: October 2010
and Recognition Program
CEARP
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WASHINGTON STATE NURSES ASSOCIATION
Continuing Education Approval and Recognition Program (CEARP)
GENERAL INFORMATION
Approval as a Provider Unit (PU) is recognition of the applicant‘s organization, educational processes
and capacity to award contact hours for continuing nursing education (CNE) activities. The PU has the
authority to assess, plan, implement and evaluate its own CNE activities during the three-year approval
period. The approved Provider Unit may offer an unlimited number of educational activities during the
period of approval.
Approval as a Provider Unit is based on an in-depth analysis of the quality of several learning activities
to estimate the likelihood of a Provider Unit‘s ability to continue to plan and produce such activities
over a three-year period. To achieve Provider Unit approval, an applicant must meet the eligibility
requirements and develop internal processes for development and review of continuing nursing
education. After Provider Unit approval is granted, the applicant is responsible for maintaining these
internal peer review processes to assure adherence to American Nurses Credentialing Center's
Commission on Accreditation (ANCC/COA) criteria and the Washington State Nurses Association's
(WSNA) Continuing Education Approval Recognition Program (CEARP) criteria.
NOTE: PROVIDER UNITS DO NOT APPROVE ACTIVITIES. Provider Units are granted
approval to assess, plan, implement and evaluate activities (APIE) that meet ANCC/WSNA
CEARP criteria. Provider Units have the ability to award contact hours. Provider Units never
have the authority to approve their own or anyone else’s activities. The words “approved”,
“application” or “applicant” should never be used in connection with any activity planned and
presented by the provider.
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ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
A. Who can apply to become an approved Provider Unit?
1. The Provider Unit must be administratively and operationally responsible for coordinating all
aspects of the CNE activities provided by the organization. A Provider Unit may be either:
a. A single-focused organization devoted to offering CNE. It exists for the single purpose of
providing CNE; or
b. A distinct, separately identified unit within a complex, multi-focused organization; e.g.: it
may be a CNE division, a staff development department, or a nursing education committee
within a larger organization. (Multi-focused organization exists for more than the purpose of
providing CNE.) Provider Units within complex organizations must demonstrate their
autonomy for providing CNE in the written documentation they submit.
2. The Provider Unit must have the services of at least one Designated Nurse Planner who is
responsible for adhering to ANCC criteria and WSNA CEARP approval criteria in the provision
of CNE. The Designated Nurse Planner must be a registered nurse and hold a baccalaureate or
higher degree. Either the baccalaureate or higher degree must be in nursing. Additionally, the
Designated Nurse Planner must have education or experience in the field of education or adult
learning. The Designated Nurse Planner must demonstrate competence in performing
successfully at the expected level. Accepted demonstration of competence can be evaluated by
review of the Designated Nurse Planner‘s curriculum vitae, biographical data form or
professional portfolio. (Portfolio is a collection of documents, articles and exhibits that
summarizes an individual‘s abilities, skills, growth, achievements and specific accomplishments
attained over an extended period of time.)
In some organizations there may be additional nurse planner(s). One nurse planner should be
selected/identified as the lead nurse planner for a particular CNE activity. All nurse planners
must meet the educational criteria of a minimum of a baccalaureate degree in nursing. Nurse
planners may work for the Provider Unit as staff members, consultants or volunteers.
In addition to meeting the minimum educational requirement, the Designated Nurse Planner and
all nurse planners must maintain expertise in educational design and adult learning theories, as
well as receive orientation to and maintain responsibility for implementing criteria in their
performance of the nurse planner role.
NOTE: The rationale for the nurse planner requirement is twofold:
1. To ensure that the nurse planner is involved in the entire process of delivery—from needs
assessment through planning, implementation, evaluation (APIE) and follow-up for every
CNE activity offered by the Provider Unit; and
2. To ensure that ANCC Accreditation Program and WSNA CEARP criteria guide the
development and implementation of every CNE activity offered by the Provider Unit.
Other nurses may serve on an individual activity planning committee along with one of the lead
nurse planners. These other nurses do not have the same responsibilities, accountabilities or
educational requirements as the Designated/Lead Nurse Planners. They are only responsible for
participating in the planning of a particular educational event.
NOTE: WSNA CEARP must always have an up-to-date list of the Designated and Lead Nurse
Planners in approved Provider Units.
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3. The Provider Unit must have been operational for at least six months, using ANCC COA criteria
and/or WSNA CEARP approval criteria. During that time, at least three separate activities must
have been planned, implemented and evaluated with:
a.. direct involvement of a qualified nurse planner (as specified above);
b. each program being at least one hour (60 minutes) in length;
c. adherence to the relevant criteria of the ANCC/WSNA CEARP or another accredited
ANCC approver.
NOTE: Co-provided activities may not be counted among the three completed activities.
After this requirement has been completed, the organization/applicant may submit an ―Intent to
Apply as a Provider Unit‖, presuming all other eligibility criteria have been met.
4. Target audience:
a. If you are based in Washington State, you must target more than 50% of your learning
activities to nurses within the states of Washington, Alaska, Oregon, Idaho, Montana,
Wyoming, Colorado, Hawaii and California. If your target audience is broader than the areas
identified, you are NOT eligible to apply to be an approved Provider Unit through WSNA
CEARP. You are, however, eligible to contact the ANCC Accreditation Program to apply
for accreditation as a Provider Unit.
NOTE: Activities offered over the internet are usually considered to be targeted to nurses in
multiple regions covering more states than listed here.
b. If you are based outside of Washington State, you must target more than 50% of your
learning activities to nurses within the geographic range of your Provider Unit. Check
www.hhs,gov/about/regionmap.html for the identification of your region plus the states
contiguous to your region.
5. The Provider Unit must be separate from any commercial entity that produces, markets,
re-sells or distributes a product used on or by patients. A Provider Unit is ineligible for
approval if it is a commercial interest as defined in the Standards for Commercial Support. A
‗commercial interest‘ is any entity either producing, marketing, re-selling, or distributing
healthcare goods or services consumed by, or used on, patients or that is owned or controlled by
an entity that produces, markets, re-sells or distributes healthcare goods or services consumed by,
or used on, patients. This definition allows a provider to have a ‗sister company‘ that is a
commercial interest, as long as the approved Provider Unit has in place and maintains adequate
corporate safe guards to prohibit any influence or control by the ‗sister company‘ over the CNE
program of the approved Provider Unit. In this instance, WSNA CEARP would expect that the
approved Provider Unit would have adequate corporate safeguards in place to prohibit any
influence or control by the ‗sister company‘ over the CNE.
NOTE: Currently, approved commercial entities will retain their approved status until July 31,
2010. They will not be eligible for re-approval. (adapted from ANCC Application Manual,
2009)
B. Submit Intent to Apply/Re-apply
Eligibility forms must be completed by the Designated Nurse Planner prior to submitting an
application. For first-time Provider Unit applicants, complete the ―Intent to Apply as a Provider
Unit—Initial application‖. For currently approved Provider Units, complete the ―Intent to Re-apply
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as a Provider Unit‖. Reviewing the applicable form will help you determine if your organization is
eligible to be a Provider Unit. This form will be submitted to and reviewed by the Education
Program Specialist prior to submitting a Provider Unit application. Please contact WSNA‘s
Education Program Specialist with any questions about this process.
1. For First-Time Applicants:
Review the eligibility criteria as listed in the general information. If you feel you meet those
criteria, submit the form ―Intent to Apply as a Provider Unit—Initial Application‖ as found
in the CEARP Nursing Education section on the web site (www.wsna.org). Submit this form
to the Education Program Specialist at WSNA at least three months before you plan to
submit the provider application. Once the Education Program Specialist notifies you that you
are eligible, the completed Provider Unit application must be submitted three months from
the date of the approval notice.
If an applicant wishes to offer approved CNE while the initial provider unit application is in
process, individual faculty directed or independent study applications must be submitted to
WSNA CEARP following the appropriate criteria and process and accompanied by the
required application fee.
2. For Currently-Approved Provider Units through WSNA CEARP
Submit the form ―Intent to Reapply as a Provider Unit—Currently Approved Provider Unit‖
which will be included with the reminder notice. The notice and form will be sent 9 months
prior to your expiration date. The intent form is to be completed by the Designated Nurse
Planner.
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SAMPLE
WASHINGTON STATE NURSES ASSOCIATION
Continuing Education Approval and Recognition Program (CEARP)
Intent to Apply as a Provider Unit – Initial Application
To be completed by Designated Nurse Planner
Complete and submit this form to the Education Program Specialist at WSNA. Once you receive
confirmation that you are eligible to apply as a Provider Unit, you may submit your Provider Unit
application.
Section 1: Demographics
Date form completed: September 1, 2010
Organization name : ABC Hospital
If you were approved as a provider by WSNA CEARP at some time in the past, list old Provider Unit
number [CEARP PA-###]: N/A
Please list the three applications approved by WSNA:
CEARP # Name of Activity Date Approved Contact Hours
1.
2.
3.
The Designated Nurse Planner must be the primary contact during the application review process.
Name and credentials: Dorothy Anderson, MN, BSN, RN.
Title/Position within organization: Director of Continuing Education
Phone Number including area code: 206-575-1908 Fax Number:
Email Address: Danderson@abchospital.org
Address: ABC Hospital, One Main Street, Anywhere, WA
My organization is a:
Hospital Long term care facility
School/college of nursing Government agency
Professional association Continuing education company
Home health agency Health care office or practice
Business providing services to the healthcare industry
Business providing products used on or by patients
Other (describe)
Have you ever been denied approval by or had approval revoked for an individual activity or a Provider
Unit application by WSNA CEARP? Yes No
If yes, please explain what happened.
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Have you ever been denied approval by or had approval revoked for an individual activity or a Provider
Unit application by another approver (state or national)? Yes No
If yes, please explain what happened.
Section 2: Provider Unit
A. My Provider Unit is:
A free standing continuing education organization
Part of an organization that does other things besides continuing nursing education
B. If your organization does other things besides continuing nursing education, is there a separate,
clearly defined Provider Unit which is administratively and operationally responsible for planning,
implementing, and evaluating continuing nursing education?
Yes No (if no, here and contact the WSNA Education Program Specialist)
Section 3: Nurse Planners: Designated/Lead Nurse Planners are (1) actively involved in planning all
activities from start to finish; (2) knowledgeable about the CNE process; and (3) meet the qualifications
to hold this position.
A. How many Lead Nurse Planners (excluding Designated Nurse Planner) are part of your Provider
Unit? 2
B. Are all your Lead Nurse Planners RNs?
Yes No (If no, here and contact the Education Program Specialist at WSNA)
C. Do your Designated/Lead Nurse Planners have at least a baccalaureate degree in nursing?
Yes No (If no, here and contact the Education Program Specialist at WSNA)
D. Do your Designated/Lead Nurse Planners have an understanding of the WSNA CEARP guidelines
and forms reflecting ANCC COA and WSNA CEARP criteria for continuing nursing education?
Yes No (If no, here and contact the Education Program Specialist at WSNA)
E. Please list names and credentials of all current Lead Nurse Planners here: Barbara Peterson, BSN,
RN and Susan Little, MN, RN
Section 4: Regional Target Market
A. Think about where the people who participate in your learning activities live. During the past year,
did you market more than half of your learning activities to nurses within the state of Washington?
Yes (go to section 5) No (answer next question in this section)
B. During the past year, did you market more than half of your learning activities to nurses within the
states of Washington, Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, (Region X, HHS), Montana, Wyoming, Utah, Nevada,
California and Hawaii?
Yes (go to section 5) No (answer next question in this section)
C. If you answered no to the above question, is it correct that, during the past year, you marketed more
than half of your learning activities to nurses in more states than listed above or internationally?
(internet learning usually fits this category)
Yes No (If no, here and contact the Education Program Specialist at WSNA)
Section 5: Commercial Entities
A. Is your Provider Unit part of a company that produces, markets, re-sells or distributes a product that
is used on or by patients?
Yes No
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B. Is your Provider Unit‘s organization owned or controlled by a company that produces, markets, re-
sells or distributes a product that is used on or by patients?
Yes No
If you answered ―no‖ to both of these two questions, you have completed this form. Please return it
to the Education Program Specialist at WSNA. You will be contacted to confirm your eligibility.
If you answered ―yes‖ to either of the above questions, please continue with the items below.
C. Your organization is part of a company or system that produces, markets, re-sells or distributes a
product that is used on or by patients. It is important that your Provider Unit is separate from any
commercial interest to avoid the perception of bias in your continuing nursing education activities.
Your answers to items 1 and 2 below will help WSNA CEARP assess the degree of separation.
1. Please describe the safeguards (sometimes called firewalls) in place to ensure that your Provider
Unit is separate from commercial activities of the company.
2. Please provide to WSNA CEARP an organizational chart showing how the Provider Unit fits within
the total organization and how separation is maintained between the Provider Unit and the
commercial entity. (attach copy)
Thank you for completing this form. Please return it to:
Education Program Specialist
Washington State Nurses Association
575 Andover Park West Suite 101
Seattle WA 98188
FAX 206-575-1908
hfaber@wsna.org
You will be contacted to confirm your eligibility.
Office Use Only:
Date received documentation: ___________________________________
Eligible to apply as a first time Provider Unit? Yes No
If no, why not: _______________________________________________________________________
Date notified applicant: _________________________________________
Reviewer Signature: ____________________________________
The Washington State Nurses Association is an accredited approver of continuing nursing education by the
American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation
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SAMPLE
WASHINGTON STATE NURSES ASSOCIATION
Continuing Education Approval and Recognition Program (CEARP)
Intent to Reapply as a Provider Unit – Currently Approved Provider Unit
To be completed by Designated Nurse Planner
You have received this form with your reminder notice indicating that your Provider Unit approval will
expire in nine months. Complete and submit this form within four (4) weeks of receiving it.
Section 1: Demographics
Date form completed: September 1, 2010
Organization name and provider number (CEARP PA-###): ABC Hospital-PA-22/Nov/09
The Designated Nurse Planner must be the primary contact during the application review process.
Name and credentials: Dorothy Anderson, MN, BSN, RN.
Title/Position within organization: Director of Continuing Education
Phone Number including area code: 206-575-1908 Fax Number:
Email Address: Danderson@abchospital.org
Address: ABC Hospital, One Main Street, Anywhere, WA
My organization is a:
Hospital Long term care facility
School/college of nursing Government agency
Professional Association Continuing education company
Home health agency Health care office or practice
Business providing services to the healthcare industry
Business providing products used on or by patients
Other (describe)
We have complied with all requests from WSNA CEARP for monitoring or other information during the
past three years of provider approval.
Yes
No
Section 2: Provider Unit
A. My Provider Unit is:
A free standing continuing education organization
Part of an organization that does other things besides continuing nursing education
B. If your organization does other things besides continuing nursing education, is there a separate,
clearly defined Provider Unit which is administratively and operationally responsible for planning,
implementing, and evaluating continuing nursing education?
Yes
No (if no, here and contact the Education Program Specialist at WSNA)
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Section 3: Nurse Planners: Designated/Lead Nurse Planners are (1) actively involved in planning all
activities from start to finish; (2) knowledgeable about the nursing CNE process; and (3) meet the
qualifications to hold this position.
A. How many Lead Nurse Planners (excluding Designated Nurse Planner) are part of your Provider
Unit? 2
B. Are all your Lead Nurse Planners RNs?
Yes No (If no, here and contact the Education Program Specialist at WSNA)
C. Do your Designated/Lead Nurse Planners have at least a baccalaureate degree in nursing?
Yes No (If no, here and contact the Education Program Specialist at WSNA)
D. Do your Designated/Lead Nurse Planners have an understanding of the WSNA CEARP guidelines
and forms reflecting ANCC COA and WSNA CEARP criteria for continuing nursing education?
Yes No (If no, here and contact the Education Program Specialist at WSNA)
E. Please list names and credentials of all current Lead nurse planners here: Barbara Peterson, BSN,
RN and Susan Little, MN, RN
Section 4: Regional Target Market
A. Think about where the people who participate in your learning activities live. During the past year, did
you market more than half of your learning activities to nurses within the state of Washington?
Yes (go to section 5)
No (answer next question in this section)
B. During the past year, did you market more than half of your learning activities to nurses within the
states of Washington, Alaska, Idaho, Oregon (HHS, Region X), Montana, Wyoming, Utah,
California and Hawaii?
Yes (go to section 5)
No (answer next question in this section)
C. If you answered no to the above question, is it correct that, during the past year, you marketed more
than half of your learning activities to nurses in more states than listed above or internationally?
(internet learning usually fits this category)
Yes No (If, no, here and contact the Education Program Specialist at WSNA.
Section 5: Commercial Entities
A. Is your Provider Unit part of a company that produces, markets, re-sells or distributes a product that
is used on or by patients?
Yes
No
B. Is your Provider Unit‘s organization owned or controlled by a company that produces, markets, re-
sells or distributes a product that is used on or by patients?
Yes
No
If you answered ―no‖ to both of these two questions, you have completed this form. Please return it
to the address below. You will be contacted to confirm your eligibility.
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If you answered ―yes‖ to either of the above questions, please continue with the items below.
C. Your organization is part of a company or system that produces or sells a product that is used on or
by patients. It is important that your Provider Unit is separate from any commercial interest to avoid
the perception of bias in your continuing nursing education activities. Your answers to items 1 and 2
below will help WSNA CEARP assess the degree of separation.
1. Please describe the safeguards (sometimes called firewalls) in place to ensure that your Provider
Unit is separate from commercial activities of the company.
2. Please provide to WSNA CEARP an organizational chart showing how the Provider Unit fits
within the total organization and how separation is maintained between the Provider Unit and the
commercial entity. (attach copy)
Thank you for completing this form. Please return it to:
Education Program Specialist
Washington State Nurses Association
575 Andover Park West Suite 101
Seattle WA 98188
FAX 206-575-1908
hfaber@wsna.org
You will be contacted to confirm your eligibility.
Office Use Only:
Date received documentation: _______________________-
Eligible to apply as a Provider Unit (current provider)? Yes No
If no, why not:
Date notified applicant: _______________________
Reviewer Signature: _____________________________________________________
The Washington State Nurses Association is an accredited approver of continuing nursing education by the
American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation
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APPROVAL PROCESS FOR PROVIDER UNIT APPLICATIONS
The Washington State Nurses Association Continuing Education Approval and Recognition Program
(WSNA CEARP) is accredited as an approver of CNE by the American Nurses Credentialing Center‘s
Commission on Accreditation (ANCC-COA). The ANCC-COA accredits approver units which have
demonstrated the capacity to approve and monitor the educational activities of individual activity
providers and Provider Units. Accreditation is national in scope.
A. Application Process
Upon receipt of notification that you are approved to apply/re-apply, complete the form labeled
―Application for Provider Unit Approval.‖ Be sure to completely fill in all information
requested at the top of the form. This application must be completed by the Designated Nurse
Planner. Attach completed bio data forms for all the nurse planners. Do not send CVs or
resumes.
Note: The Designated Nurse Planner must be the primary contact person during the application
review process.
Submit three complete typed copies (one original and two single-sided copies) of the Provider
Unit application packet with the $900 application fee. Each copy of the application must
include a table of contents and have pages clearly numbered consistent with the table of contents.
Assure documents are secured. Binder clips are recommended. (Do not use three-ring binders,
comb binding, rubber bands or staples.)
To be accepted for review, all applications MUST be submitted on current WSNA CEARP
forms obtained from the WSNA Education website and completed in the format defined in these
Guidelines. Applications not submitted on correct forms or in the proper format will be returned
with directions about what changes are needed before the review can take place.
Note: These guidelines/forms will be periodically updated, therefore, check that you are using
the most current Guidelines located on the WSNA website: www.wsna.org.
First-Time Provider Unit Applicants Must Submit:
a. A composite list of all completed activities, which includes:
1. titles of activities that have been approved by WSNA CEARP or other ANCC
Approver during the past 24 months;
2. date approved;
3. date(s) presented;
4. assigned WSNA CEARP number (if applicable); and
5. number of contact hours approved.
b. In addition submit:
Acknowledgement and approval letters from WSNA CEARP for the 3 activities
WSNA CEARP has approved
A summative evaluation for each of these 3 activities
Documentation for an activity that has been planned and will be reviewed and
presented after Provider Unit status has been achieved. Include all required
attachments: bio data forms, objectives, evaluation tool, marketing sample,
certificate, evidence of disclosures to be made, commercial support/sponsorship
agreement if applicable, post-activity QI tool. The marketing material and
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certificate should contain the required Provider statement that will be used by
your organization once Provider Unit status has been achieved.
The sample certificate that you will use once you become an approved Provider
Unit. The Provider Unit statement must be included on the certificate. (Key
Element 7).
Reapplying Provider Unit Applicants Must Submit:
A composite list of all completed CNE activities with titles, dates presented and
contact hours provided in the past three (3) years.
A complete file for one CNE activity implemented during the prior three-year
approval period, including completed application, objectives, signed bio data
forms, advertising materials, review check lists, post activity QI form, evaluation
summaries and changes made as a result of evaluations must also be included.
Upon receipt of the application, the CEARP Reviewer will select a minimum of
two completed CNE activities from the composite list and request submission of
the completed files for the two completed CNE activities selected.
B. Review Process
A preliminary quantitative review for completeness of the application is conducted by WSNA staff.
You will be notified that the application is complete or additional information is needed. If you are a
first-time applicant, you will be assigned a provider number. This provider number is very
important and MUST be included on any subsequent correspondence or additional material related
to your provider application. For currently approved Provider Units seeking re-approval, be sure
your provider number is on all correspondence or other material related to your provider application.
Applications are reviewed by members of the WSNA CEARP Committee. You will be notified by
email of the name of the reviewer within five (5) working days after it is assigned and then
contacted by the reviewer within 30 days after receipt of your application. The review process can
take as long as three months depending on the completeness of the application and need for any
additional supplemental information from the applicant. The goal of WSNA CEARP is to for you to
be successful in providing quality CNE.
You will be officially notified in writing regarding the final action on your application.
One copy of your entire application, all correspondence to and from you related to the application,
the CEARP review forms, and action on your application are kept on file at WSNA for six years.
Only authorized personnel have access to the files. Accreditation and regulatory bodies such as the
ANCC Accreditation program may review files.
C. Types of Action Taken by WSNA CEARP
There are three types of action possible on an application for Provider Unit approval:
1. Approval for three years occurs when your written application materials indicate that the
criteria are met. During the approval period, the Provider Unit can award contact hours for
CNE activities without submitting documentation to WSNA CEARP. However, the
ANCC/WSNA CEARP criteria must be met by the Provider Unit for each individual CNE
activity.
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2. Conditional Approval occurs when your written application materials indicate limitations in
meeting criteria that can be resolved within twelve months or less. During this Conditional
Approval time period, no contact hours can be granted by the Provider Unit applicant
without prior approval of each proposed individual CNE activity by the assigned WSNA
CEARP Reviewer. This will require submission of a complete faculty directed or
independent study application, with payment of the usual fees for such activities, at least 45-
days in advance of the scheduled date for the activity. Advertising and certificate approval
wording must reflect activity approval by WSNA CEARP (not the approved provider
language). Your Provider Unit will be listed on the WSNA website as having ―conditional
approval‖. After additional review of the requested materials is reviewed and found to
comply with ANCC/WSNA CEARP criteria, WSNA CEARP will confer full approval for
the remainder of the three year approval period or deny approval.
3. Denial occurs when written application materials indicate that your Provider Unit:
a. Is not in adherence with the criteria of the ANCC COA and/or the requirements of the
WSNA CEARP approval process and will not be able to adhere within an identified
period of time; or
b. Has not demonstrated adherence to or improvement in relation to WSNA CEARP
documented areas of concern during the conditional approval process.
D. Appeal Process
A Provider Unit will receive information regarding the appeal process at the time they are notified of
the Conditional Approval or Denial action. To file an appeal, the applicant must submit its written
argument to WSNA CEARP Committee .within 30 days following notification of the approval
decision. Applicants considering whether to appeal a decision, or to request a reconsideration of a
decision, should contact the WSNA CEARP Education Specialist.
E. Withdrawal and Resubmission of an Application
A Provider Unit applicant has the right to withdraw an application at any time prior to completion of
the approval process without prejudice to any future applications. The Provider Unit applicant must
notify the WSNA CEARP in writing of the decision to withdraw the application. One complete
application and a copy of all correspondence will be kept on file in the WSNA office for six years.
Fees will not be refunded if the review process has begun. If the review process has not begun, the
application fee, minus a $100 administrative fee will be returned to the applicant.
If the applicant chooses to resubmit, the applicant has up to six months from initial submission to
resume the approval process. After six months have passed, all eligibility criteria must be met again,
and a new application including the required fee must be submitted.
F. Suspensions and Revocations
Approval may be suspended and/or revoked from an approved Provider Unit (PU) as a result of
ANY of the following:
1. Unable to satisfactorily confirm that the PU adheres to criteria and requirements defined by
ANCC criteria and/or WSNA CEARP Guidelines;
2. Pay accreditation fees promptly;
3. Investigation and verification of written complaints or charges;
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4. Refusal to fully comply with all requests for information; or
5. Misrepresentation of ANCC and/or WSNA CEARP criteria, requirements, values or goals.
Suspended Provider Units must immediately cease (a) offering or approving WSNA CEARP
approved contact hours, and (b) referring to itself in any way as an approved Provider Unit by
WSNA CEARP. Suspended units may, within 120 days of the suspension date, apply for
reinstatement. Reinstatement may be granted if the suspended Provider Unit adequately
demonstrates that it intends to fully adhere to the ANCC and WSNA CEARP approval criteria.
Suspension and revocation are effective on the date the certified letter of notification is received by
the organization. In cases of suspension, the Provider Unit may not award contact hours until all
conditions relative to the suspension have been met. In cases of revocation, all statements regarding
Provider Unit approval status must be removed from publicity material and certificates of
completion printed and/or distributed after that date. If Provider Unit status is revoked, the Provider
Unit may not award contact hours.
Suspension and revocation decisions are open to appeal. The appeal, along with an appeal
processing fee, must be submitted in writing to WSNA CEARP within 30 business days after
receiving written notification of the suspension or revocation decision. Provider Units considering
an appeal should contact the WSNA CEARP office for more information.
G. Recordkeeping
Documentation of meeting these criteria must be completed on the CNE activity documentation
forms for each activity and maintained in a secure file for six years. The Provider Unit is
responsible for maintaining these internal processes to assure adherence to ANCC and WSNA
CEARP criteria during the three-year approval period.
H. Reporting of Data
Approved Provider Units will be asked to submit annual survey data and periodic requests for
information in order to help evaluate and monitor the WSNA CEARP approval system and meet
ANCC COA requirements. Failure to respond to monitoring requests will result in suspension
of approval as a Provider Unit.
I. Provider Unit Changes
The approved Provider Unit must maintain communications with WSNA CEARP during the
approval period. At a minimum, the following must be reported in writing:
1. Reports of data requested by WSNA CEARP within the time frame specified when the data
is requested;
2. Within 30 days, information about change in:
a) name, ownership or structure of the organization, or
b) the nurse planner(s), or
c) the name of the contact person, or
d) voluntary termination of Provider Unit status.
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Provider Units that decide to cease the CNE services for which they are approved, must notify
WSNA CEARP how they will continue to make activity participation records available to learners.
Once approval is terminated, the Provider Unit may no longer use statements concerning approved-
Provider Unit status on publicity material or certificates of completion and may not award contact
hours.
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CRITERIA FOR APPROVAL AS A PROVIDER UNIT - 2010
The following criteria, key elements (which clarify the major aspects of each criterion) and required
evidence is required to qualify for approval as a Provider Unit.
CRITERION 1: MISSION STATEMENT
The documented beliefs/philosophy and goals of the Provider Unit reflect the importance of
continuing nursing education and the needs and characteristics of the Provider Unit’s potential
learners. In a multi-focused organization, the Provider Unit: is clearly defined, accurately,
clearly, and consistently named, and, supported by the administrative structure.
Key Elements:
1. Beliefs and Goals (often referred to as mission statement) are relevant and appropriate to
prospective learners.
Required Evidence:
Submit the beliefs and goals of the Provider Unit. If the Provider Unit is part of a
multi-focused organization, describe how the beliefs and goals of the Provider Unit
link with the goals, mission and functions of the total organization. Incorporate goals,
beliefs, scope, target audience, and types of education activities offered. This should
also include expected outcomes (e.g., changes in participants’ knowledge,
competency, behavior or patient outcomes) and how the Provider Unit anticipates
measuring those changes and outcomes.
Describe features of the Provider Unit that characterize its scope such as its size,
geographical range, target audience(s), content areas and the type of educational
activities it offers. If the Provider Unit is part of a multi-focused organization,
describe the relationship of these scope dimensions in the total organization.
2. Scope and Administrative Support. Organizational structures and lines of authority support
the operation of the Provider Unit.
Required Evidence:
Submit an organizational chart, flow sheet or similar kind of image that depicts the
organizational structure of the Provider Unit.
Provide the name and credentials of the individual in each position identified on the
organizational chart.
If the Provider Unit is part of a multi-focused organization, submit an additional
depiction that identifies the Provider Unit’s lines of authority and structural location
within the total organization.
Be as clear as possible in describing the Provider Unit. This will help you if a question arises in the
future and will help the CEARP Committee understand the scope of the Provider Unit. Questions to
consider include the composition of your Provider Unit, the structure of the Provider Unit, etc.
(examples: all departments within the hospital; all nursing departments within a 6-hospital system,
the CNE department of a university, etc.)
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CRITERION 2: EDUCATIONAL DESIGN
The Provider Unit has a clearly defined process for assessing need, planning, implementing and
evaluating (APIE) continuing nursing education (CNE) in accordance with adult learning
principles and professional education standards and ethics. The educational design process
includes procedures for protecting educational content from bias, providing learners appropriate
information and documentation related to their participation, and maintaining records in a secure
and confidential manner.
Required Evidence for First-time Applicants:
If you are a first-time applicant for Provider Unit status, submit:
Acknowledgement and approval letters from WSNA CEARP for the 3 activities
WSNA CEARP has approved
A summative evaluation for each of these 3 activities
Documentation for an activity that has been planned and will be reviewed and
presented after Provider Unit status has been achieved. Include all required
attachments: bio data forms, objectives, evaluation tool, marketing sample,
certificate, evidence of disclosures to be made, commercial support/sponsorship
agreement if applicable, post-activity QI tool. The marketing material and
certificate should contain the required Provider statement that will be used by
your organization once Provider Unit status has been achieved.
The sample certificate that you will use once you become an approved Provider
Unit. The Provider Unit statement must be included on the certificate. (Key
Element 7).
Required Evidence for Reapplying Approved Provider Unit Applicants:
A composite list of all completed CNE activities with titles, dates presented and
contact hours provided in the past three (3) years.
A complete file for one CNE activity implemented during the prior three-year
approval period, including completed application, objectives, signed bio data
forms, advertising materials, review check lists, post activity QI form, evaluation
summaries and changes made as a result of evaluations must also be included.
Upon receipt of the application, the CEARP Reviewer will select a minimum of
two completed CNE activities from the composite list and request submission of
three copies of the completed files for the two completed CNE activities selected.
These must be received in the WSNA office within one week of contact by the
reviewer.
Key Elements:
1. Assessment of Learner Needs. CNE activities are developed in response to and with
consideration for the unique educational needs of the Provider Unit’s target audience (as
associated with the Mission Statement).
Required Evidence:
Describe the process of activity planning, including the
needs assessment
determination of target audience
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development of objectives, content and teaching-learning strategies in response to the
needs assessment .
2. Qualified Planners and Faculty. Each educational activity is planned collaboratively by at
least one Designated/Lead Nurse Planner and one other planner. The Provider Unit’s
Designated/Lead Nurse Planner(s) must be a registered nurse and hold a baccalaureate or
higher degree in nursing. Additionally, the Designated/Lead Nurse Planner must have
education or experience in the field of education or adult learning. Each member of the
planning group should represent at least one of the following areas: the relevant content
expertise; the target audience; responsibility for adherence to ANCC accreditation criteria.
Each planning committee must have representation of all these three areas. Nurse planners
contribute oversight and must be actively involved in both the planning and the analysis of
evaluation data for the educational activity. The planning committee assures the qualifications
of the faculty member(s) are appropriate and adequate.
Required Evidence:
Identify Designated/Lead Nurse Planner(s) and all other person(s) who participated in
the planning process. Document the content expertise of the collaborating planner(s) who
represents this area (required), and of the activity presenters as appropriate.
Describe the role(s) played by the Provider Unit’s Designated/Lead Nurse
Planner(s) and any additional key personnel or groups involved in the process of
ensuring the quality of educational activities. If the Unit relies on the services of
multiple and/or ad hoc Nurse Planners, describe how all nurse planners are kept up-
to-date on the requirements for adhering to ANCC accreditation standards and
WSNA CEARP approver standards. Also, describe how the Provider Unit ensures the
performance of each Lead Nurse Planner meets both the requirements of the Provider
Unit and the expectations of ANCC and WSNA CEARP.
Submit a description of the manner in which the needed qualifications of faculty are
identified.
Submit a description of how the planning committee ensures that the selected faculty
meets the needed qualifications.
3. Effective Design Principles. Each educational activity is developed with:
a. an identified learning goal (purpose) and explicit educational objectives for the learner;
b. identified gaps in knowledge, skills, practice identified (based on the needs assessment)
which the activity is designed to address;
c. content congruent with the activity’s learning goal and educational objectives;
d. teaching and learning strategies congruent with the activity’s objectives and content;
e. criteria for judging successful completion of an activity that are consistent with the
learning goal, objectives, teaching and learning strategies as listed above; and
f. a method determined for verifying participation in an activity.
Required Evidence:
Submit a description of the activity:
purpose, learner objectives and related content;
identified gaps(based on the needs assessment);
teaching-learning strategies used, including resources, materials, delivery methods
and learner feedback mechanisms;
rationale and criteria selected for judging successful completion, and
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method selected for verifying participation.
4. Awarding Contact Hours. Contact hours associated with the official accreditation statement
are awarded to participants for those portions of the educational activity devoted to didactic or
clinical experience or to evaluating the activity. Contact hours are calculated in a logical and
defensible manner. One contact hour = 60 minutes. A provider of an educational activity may
award no fewer than 0.5 contact hours for an educational activity. Learning activities may be
conducted asynchronously or may be bundled to allow a full learning experience to take place.
If rounding is desired in the calculation of contact hours, the provider is to round down to the
nearest 1/100th. Contact hours may not be awarded retrospectively.
Required Evidence:
Identify and provide supporting documentation of how the number and calculation of
contact hours are awarded for the activity.
5. Activity Evaluation. A clearly defined method, which includes learner input, is used to
evaluate the effectiveness of each educational activity.
Required Evidence:
Describe the method used to evaluate the activities
Identify the category of evaluation i.e. learner satisfaction, knowledge enhancement,
skill and attitude change, change in practice/performance, relationship of the
practice change to quality of service. It is strongly recommended that at least a
portion of the activities provided be evaluated at one of the higher levels of
evaluation.
Include supporting documentation for the descriptions above.
6. Approval Statements. The approval statement is a mark of the status of the Provider Unit. All
communications, marketing materials, certificates and other documents that refer to the status
of approval by an ANCC-accredited approver must contain the official approval statement:
(Insert Name of approved Provider Unit) is an approved provider of continuing nursing
education by the Washington State Nurses Association, an accredited approver by the
American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.
The approval statement must start and end on a line separate from other text. It must stand alone.
Required Evidence:
Submit samples of promotional materials developed for an activity.
7. Documentation of Completion. Participants receive written verification of their successful
completion of an activity, which includes at a minimum:
a. the name of the participant learner
b. the name and address of the Provider Unit
c. the title and date of the educational activity
d. the official accreditation statement, and
e. the number of contact hours awarded.
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Required Evidence:
Submit a sample copy of the certificate awarded to participants upon completion of
the educational activity.
First-time applicants: Include sample certificate of completion as it would appear
following accreditation and containing the appropriate accreditation statement once
approved as a Provider Unit.
8. Sponsorship and Commercial Support Guidelines. Education must be kept separate from
promotional activities. Commercial support, exhibits or the presentation of research
conducted by a commercial company shall not influence the design and scientific objectivity of
any educational activity. Commercially-supplied funds for an educational activity that are
given in the form of an educational grant or in-kind assistance shall be acknowledged in the
brochures and/or printed materials or electronic promotion for the continuing nursing
education activity. (Refer to Standards for Disclosure and Commercial Support, Appendix J.)
Required Evidence:
Submit a description of:
Any sponsorship or commercial support related to the educational activity;
How content integrity is maintained for education activities that receive sponsorship
or commercial support, if any, including, but not limited to the policy and associated
procedures for resolving conflicts;
What/how precautions are taken to prevent bias in the educational content;
A template of the written agreement used in the presence of sponsorship or
commercial support.
9. Conflict of Interest Guidelines. Conflict of interest disclosure statements shall be obtained
from all activity planners and presenters to identify the presence or absence of any potentially
biasing relationship of a financial, professional or personal nature on the part of those who
have an impact on the content of an educational activity. Planners and presenters must
disclose the presence or absence of conflict of interest relative to each activity. All potential
conflicts shall be resolved prior to the planning, implementation or evaluation of the CNE
activity. (Refer to the conflict of interest discussion in Appendix I.)
Note: ANCC defines a ―conflict of interest‖ as when an individual has an opportunity to affect
CNE content with products or services from a commercial interest with which he/she has a
financial relationship. ANCC considers ―opportunity to affect CNE content‖ to include content
about specific agents/devices, but not necessarily about the class of agents/devices, and not
necessarily content about the whole disease class in which those agents /devices are used.
Required Evidence:
Submit documentation of the conflict of interest disclosures(or disclosures of absence
of conflict of interest) relative to a specific activity;
Describe procedures followed to resolve any real or potential bias or conflict of
interest is resolved.
10. Disclosures Provided to Activity Participants. Participants shall receive the following
information regarding each and every activity in advance of, or at the time of the event. If the
disclosure is provided verbally, there will be documentation provided by a designated person
in the audience of the activity that the disclosure was appropriately made. See Standard 6A
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and 6B of the Standards for Disclosure & Commercial Support (in Appendix J) for further
guidance.
a. Notice of requirements for successful completion: Learners are informed in advance of the
learning goals, objectives of the educational activity, and the criteria to be used to determine
successful completion of an educational activity.
b. Conflicts of Interest: Activity participants are informed of any influencing financial
relationships or lack thereof disclosed by planners or presenters. (Refer to Appendix I for
further instruction.)
c. Disclosure of Relevant Financial relationships and Mechanism to Identify And Resolve
conflicts of Interest. (See further instruction, Appendix J, Standards for Disclosure &
Commercial Support).
d. Sponsorship or Commercial support: Activity participants are made fully aware of the
nature of any commercial support related to an educational activity. (Refer to Appendix J,
Standards for Disclosure & Commercial Support.)
e. Non-endorsement of products: Activity participants are advised that approved status does
not imply endorsement by the provider, ANCC and WSNA CEARP of any commercial
products displayed in conjunction with an activity.
f. Off-label use: Learners are notified when an educational activity relates to any product use
for a purpose other than that for which it was approved by the Food and Drug
Administration.
g. Expiration Date for Awarding Contact Hours: Endurable educational documents must
include a statement that explains how long contact hours will be awarded for an independent
study activity. This statement must appear on all marketing materials and on the educational
materials.
Required Evidence:
Describe the methods used to inform activity participants of the above information.
Requirements for successful completion.
Conflict of Interest documents
Disclosure statements
Sponsorship/Commercial Support
Non-endorsement of products
Off-label use
Expiration date for awarding contact hours
11. Recordkeeping. For each provided educational activity, the following documentation is kept in
a secure, confidential and a retrievable manner for six years:
a. Planning:
description of the target audience
the method and findings of the needs assessment
names, titles and expertise of the activity planners and presenters
conflict of interest disclosure statements from planners and presenters and
resolutions of conflict of interest, as appropriate
purpose, objectives and content
instructional strategies, delivery methods, learner feedback mechanisms and
resources to be used
method or process used to verify participation
notice to learners identifying how successful completion will be measured
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marketing and promotional materials
division of responsibilities among co-providers, if any, and
means of ensuring content integrity with sponsorship or commercial support, if
any; and
the written commercial support agreement as required in the Standards of
Commercial Support for any activity receiving commercial support.
b. Implementation:
title, location and date of educational activity
all evaluation tools used, including a summative evaluation
participant names and unique identifier information (e.g.: an automatically
generated number, a password code, the month and date of birth, an address,
etc.)
sample certificate of completion
number of contact hours associated with official accreditation statement
awarded to individual participants
documentation of the verbal provision of required disclosures (see Standard 6A,
B of the Standards for Commercial Support for further guidance, refer to
Appendix J.)
Required Evidence:
Describe the Provider Unit’s recordkeeping system, including:
how activity records are consistently collected, and
how records are stored and secured in a consistent, logical, safe and confidential
manner.
12. Co-Provided Activities. When educational activities are co-provided, the approved Provider
Unit is responsible for ensuring adherence to all ANCC criteria. The approved Provider Unit
retains the following responsibilities:
a. determination of the educational objectives and content;
b. selection of the content specialist planners and activity presenters;
c. the awarding of contact hours, as appropriate, to the individual educational Activity;
d. recordkeeping procedures;
e. evaluation methods and categories and
f. management of any sponsorship or commercial support.
If collaborating providers are all ANCC accredited, one is designated to retain the provider
responsibilities by mutual, written agreement. The unit designated to retain these
responsibilities is referred to as the provider and the other collaborating providers are
referred to as co-providers. (Refer to Appendix H for more information.)
Required Evidence:
Submit a description of how responsibilities are assigned and maintained for co-provided
activities, if any. (The co-provider agreement must be signed by each party involved in
the provision of the activity and must identify the responsibilities of each party.)
CRITERION 3: UNIT OPERATIONS
The Provider Unit ensures the quality of continuing nursing education (CNE) through an
established process involving a qualified nurse planner for developing, delivering and evaluating
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the effectiveness of the educational activities it offers. Adequate resources are provided to support
the Provider Unit’s full range of functions.
Key Elements:
1. Designated Nurse Planner.
At least one nurse carries out the role of the Designated Nurse Planner with responsibility for
assessing needs, planning, implementing and evaluating CNE activities. The Designated Nurse
Planner is responsible for assuring that all Nurse Planners are appropriately prepared, oriented and
trained to use the same approach and policies established by the Provider Unit. The Designated
Nurse Planner must be a registered nurse with a baccalaureate or higher degree in nursing.
Additionally, the Designated Nurse Planner must have education or experience in the field of
education or adult learning.
Required Evidence:
Submit a position description for the Designated Nurse Planner reflecting
qualifications and job functions; and
Submit a description of the activities of the Designated Nurse Planner in assuring
other Nurse Planners are appropriately prepared, oriented and trained to function in
that role. Provide accompanying evidence.
2. Resources. Sufficient human, material and financial resources are available to carry out the
administrative, educational and supportive functions of the Provider Unit.
Required Evidence:
For Designated Nurse Planners, nurse planners, and other key personnel (individuals
as defined by the applicant organization) involved in providing CNE or the overall
administration of the Provider Unit, submit position descriptions that clearly identify
job functions and biographical data summaries that demonstrate the qualifications of
current incumbents. The position descriptions must reflect qualification requirements
for the Nurse Planner(s) and roles relative to CNE that are consistent with those of
the ANCC Accreditation Program.
Submit a description of the material resources that support the functions of the
Provider Unit.
Submit a brief description of the Provider Unit’s current sources of financial support
and how financial support will be sustained throughout the approval period. Do not
submit detailed budget reports.
Submit a report identifying the amount and frequency with which commercial support
for educational activities is received.
3. Business Practices. The Provider Unit must adhere to all regional, state and national laws and
regulations and operate the business and management policies and procedures of its CNE
program (as they relate to human resources, financial affairs and legal obligations) so that its
obligations and commitments are met. The Provider Unit must adhere to all reasonable
ethical expectations in its provision of CNE and its business practices.
Required Evidence:
Submit the signed Attestation Statement that the approved Provider Unit complies with
all applicable local, regional, state or national laws and regulations and operates its
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business in an ethical manner. This attestation is to be signed by the leader(s) of the
approved Provider Unit.
CRITERION 4: PROVIDER UNIT EVALUATION
The Provider Unit engages in an ongoing evaluation process to analyze its overall effectiveness in
fulfilling its beliefs, goals and functions, and in providing quality CNE. Plans and goals for the
Provider Unit’s future development in CNE are identified and re-evaluated on a regular basis.
Documentation Requirements:
Required evidence for this criterion should include a written plan for evaluation of the Provider Unit
indicating what is evaluated, when it is evaluated, who participates and findings of most recent
evaluation and date that was done. This plan should include those items stated in Criterion 4, Key
Element 1, (i.e., the process used and what was identified as needing change). Examples of the
evaluation data that are collected with an explanation as to how they have been used to increase the
effectiveness of the Provider Unit should also be included.
NOTE: First-time applicants are expected to have implemented their Provider Unit performance
improvement plan throughout the six months of operational status that is required for application
eligibility. Data examples should be selected that are representative of that period. New goals for the
Provider Unit should be described under Key Element 4.
Key Elements:
1. Provider Unit Evaluation Process. The Provider Unit must have a plan in place to evaluate
the effectiveness of its overall CNE Program.
a. administrative and operational procedures
b. array of educational offerings, including those offered on a repeated basis for which
participant input and evaluation data can be collected and analyzed over time
c. outcomes and results, and
d. progress toward goals for improvement.
Required Evidence:
Document what process was used, what was identified as needing change (or not).
Submit the plan for implementing the Provider Unit’s overall evaluation process for the
next three years. This plan should address, at a minimum, items 1.a through 1.d listed
above. (Refer to sample Provider Unit Evaluation Plan.)
2. Provider Unit Evaluation Participants. The Designated Nurse Planner shall participate in the
unit evaluation. The Provider Unit shall identify other participants to be included in the
evaluation process.
Required Evidence:
Identify appropriate stakeholders that are involved in the evaluation of the Provider Unit.
(This may differ based upon the type of provider’s organization.)
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3. Provider Unit Evaluation Results. Evaluation data are used to confirm, expand or change the
operations of the Provider Unit.
Required Evidence:
Describe how results of the overall program evaluation process have been used to
confirm, expand and improve the Provider Unit’s operations.
4. Provider Unit Goals for Improvement. Efforts toward improvement include addressing issues,
identifying strategies for working on targeted goals, evaluating progress toward goals and
revising or establishing new goals.
Required Evidence:
Submit a description of how:
The Provider Unit’s goals for improvement during the approval period have been
addressed;
What changes and progress have been made toward meeting those goal;
What new goals for improvement have been identified, and
Operational plans for implementation associated with the goals identified above.
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SAMPLE
(This is not intended to be a complete example)
WASHINGTON STATE NURSES ASSOCIATION
Continuing Education Approval & Recognition Program (CEARP)
Application for Provider Unit Approval – 2010
DIRECTIONS: Please review the Provider Unit Guidelines
For office use only
for additional information to complete this Provider Unit Date Received: _______________________
application. Some of the information can be typed directly on
this form, some can be attached. If more space is needed Amount received: ____________________
than provided on this form in any section, clearly identify Check number: _______________________
where to find the continuation. Attached information must be
labeled and titled in accordance with the outline, divided Credit Card (check if yes): _________________
clearly and numbered in sequence. Provider #: _____________________________
Each copy of the application must:
Have a table of contents;
Pages numbered consistent with the table of contents;
Application bound securely. Binder clips are recommended. Do not use comb binding, three ring
binders, staples or rubber bands.
Submit three complete, collated, typed, single-sided copies of the application packet with the $900
application fee.
NOTE: These guidelines/forms will be periodically updated, therefore, check that you are using the
most current Guidelines located on the WSNA website: www.wsna.org.
Demographic Data
Date of this application: September 3, 2010
Name of Provider Unit (as appears in advertising materials): ABC Hospital
Name of organization (if different):
For reapplying Provider Units: CEARP-PA # N/A
Address: One Main Street, Anywhere, WA
Phone number including area code:
The Designated Nurse Planner must be the primary contact during the application review process.
Name: Barbara Peterson, BSN, RN
Phone Number including area code: 206-575-1908 Fax Number: 206-575-9801
Email Address: bpeterson@ABChospital.org
Does your Provider Unit have a website that offers any information about the Provider Unit/CNE
Activities? Intranet___ Internet_____ Yes No
If yes, the address is:
Check which types of activities you plan to or do offer: Faculty Directed Independent Study
For computer-based programs, list the web site address for the activities provided:
For First-Time Provider Unit Applicant:
A. Date of first activity approved by WSNA CEARP: February 2010
B. Date first implemented ANCC COA and/or WSNA CEARP criteria: February 2010
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C. Attach a composite list of all activities provided since date first implemented ANCC/WSNA CEARP
criteria including title, date(s) presented, contact hours awarded for each activity. Found on page:
xx
For Reapplying Provider Unit Applicant:
A. Please answer the following questions regarding your last three approval years:
1. Describe how all Nurse Planners and Reviewers are kept current on ANCC, WSNA CEARP
requirements/ application changes:
2. Please check if one or more of your Nurse Planners or reviewers read or attended the following:
Provider email Updates
HIGHLIGHTS newsletter
Attended WSNA CEARP Provider Update Conference; Date Sept. 1, 2010
Other: (Describe:)
3. Based on your organization‘s experience these past three years, identify two trends in nursing
practice that have implications for CNE?
a)
b)
4. Attach a composite list of all CNE activities provided during the three year approval period
including: title, date(s) delivered, contact hours awarded. Found on page
5. Upon receipt of the application, the CEARP Reviewer will select a minimum of two completed
CNE activities for review from the composite list. Submit the two requested files to the WSNA
office within a week of notification by the Reviewer.
CRITERION 1: MISSION STATEMENT
The documented beliefs and goals of the Provider Unit reflect the importance of CNE and the needs and
characteristics of the Provider Unit‘s potential learners. The Provider Unit is clearly defined and, in
multi-focused organizations, supported by the administrative structure.
Key Element 1: Beliefs and goals of the Provider Unit are relevant and appropriate to prospective
learners.
A. Our Provider Unit‘s prospective learners are:
Employees of our organization
Nurses in our community
Other: describe
B. To meet the needs of our prospective learners, our Provider Unit believes that: See ABC Hospital
Philosophy/mission statement on p. xx; and overall Purpose/Goals of ABC Hospital Education Dept.
on p. xx
C. The current goals of our Provider Unit for the new approval period are to: See pages xx
D. The outcomes we hope to achieve with our CNE activities are:
Learner satisfaction
Change in participants‘ knowledge
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Change in participants‘ practice
Change in patient outcomes
Other: describe :
E. We measure achievement of these outcomes by:
Learner satisfaction surveys
Testing
Return demonstrations
Performance and/or process improvement initiatives
Follow-up surveys of previous participants
Other:
F. Our Provider Unit is:
A free-standing organization (omit the next question)
Part of a larger organization: the organization does more than provide continuing education
(answer the next question)
G. The beliefs and goals of our Provider Unit link with the mission, goals, and purpose of the larger
organization by: ABC Provider Unit is integrated into the Education Dept of ABC Hospital. The
Education Dept reports to the ABC Hospital Chief Nursing Officer who approves the Education
Dept. budget and monitors its activities via regular report to the Designated Nurse Planner. See
ABC Hospital Purpose, Vision, Mission & Goals on pp. xx and the ABC Hospital Staff Org. Chart
on pp. xx.
H. 1. If based in Washington State, the geographic range of our Provider Unit is (where we target
more than 50% of our marketing):
Our facility
Our city
Our county
Our state
Our region (Washington, Alaska, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Utah, Nevada,
California and Hawaii.)
2. If based outside of Washington State, the geographic range more than 50% of our Provider Unit
marketing is targeted to the Washington State region (Washington, Alaska, Oregon, Idaho,
Montana, Wyoming, Utah, Nevada, California and Hawaii.)
Yes
No
NOTE: If you target the marketing for more than 50% of your learning activities to people outside
our region, you are NOT eligible to apply as a provider. Please contact the WSNA Education
Program Specialist for additional information.
I. Our usual target audience includes:
RNs
Advanced Practice RNs
Multidisciplinary participants
Other: describe
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J. Our usual content areas are:
Clinical topics: describe safe lifting, nurse sensitive outcome indicators, safety precautions;
infection control, etc.
Nonclinical topics: describe
Other: describe
K. The types of educational activities we typically offer include:
Face-to-face / real-time learning (conferences, workshops, webinars, etc.)
Independent studies
Key Element 2: Scope & Administrative Support.
Organizational structures and lines of authority support the operation of the Provider Unit.
A. An organizational chart for the Provider Unit is on page xx. This chart shows both:
The organizational structure of the Provider Unit
Names and credentials of the people in each position
B. If our Provider Unit is part of a larger organization, an organizational chart of the whole
organization, showing how the Provider Unit links with the rest of the system, is on page xx.
CRITERION 2: EDUCATIONAL DESIGN
The Provider Unit has a clearly defined process for assessing need, planning, implementing, and
evaluating CNE. Adult learning principles, professional education standards, and ethical considerations
guide the way educational activities are conducted. There are procedures for protecting educational
content from bias, providing learners appropriate information and documentation related to their
participation, and maintaining records in a secure and confidential manner.
In accordance with WSNA CEARP, each educational activity undergoes an internal review prior to its
initial use in order to verify that all criteria and rules have been addressed. Subsequently, the Designated
Nurse Planner monitors each learning activity on a regular basis to ascertain that all components of the
activity remain relevant and appropriate. This is a quality assurance process, not an approval process.
The Provider Unit does not approve activities. The Provider Unit must not use the words ―approval,
applicant, or application‖.
Key Elements 1-10: Learning Activity Development, Implementation, and Evaluation (APIE) as
evidenced by completed CNE activities
NOTE FOR FIRST-TIME APPLICANTS NOTE FOR RENEWING APPLICANTS
ONLY: If you are a first-time applicant for ONLY: Submit documentation for one
Provider Unit status, submit: completed activity which must be at least one
hour in length.
Acknowledgement and approval letters The documentation form with all required
from WSNA CEARP for the 3 activities attachments including: bio data forms,
WSNA CEARP or other ANCC accredited objectives, summative evaluation,
approver has approved. marketing sample, certificate, evidence of
disclosures, co-provider agreement if
applicable, commercial
support/sponsorship agreement if
applicable (refer to 1-10 key elements)
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A summative evaluation for each of these 3 Completed reviewer(s) form(s)
activities
Documentation for an activity that has been Summative evaluation
planned and will be reviewed and presented
after Provider Unit status has been
achieved. Include all required attachments:
bio data forms, objectives, evaluation tool,
marketing sample, certificate, evidence of
disclosures to be made, commercial
support/sponsorship agreement if
applicable, post-activity QI tool. The
marketing material and certificate should
contain the Provider statement that will be
used by your organization once Provider
Unit status has been achieved.
The sample certificate that you will use Designated Nurse Planner‘s Quality
once you become an approved Provider Improvement (QI) form
Unit. The Provider Unit statement must be
included on the certificate. (Key Element 7)
Assessment, Planning, Implementation and Evaluation (APIE) PROCESS: Describe (or attach a
page) the process of assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation that you use in planning,
providing, and evaluating each submitted CNE activity. see page xx
A. Internal Review Process
1. Each activity is reviewed by (number) RN reviewers prior to the initial learning activity being
offered.
2. Reviewers receive information about how to conduct reviews by: (check all that apply)
Information provided by the Designated Nurse Planner
Periodic educational sessions
Feedback from the Designated Nurse Planner
Inter-rater reliability exercises
Other: describe Currently three qualified PU staff: The Designated Planner and two Lead
Planners who alternate the planner/reviewer roles, when one is the Planner, the other is the
Reviewer.
3. Describe your internal peer review process: On Page xx.
4 Completed review forms are included with each individual activity documentation form
submitted with the Provider Unit application.
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B. Post Activity Quality Improvement Evaluation
The Designated and/or Lead Nurse Planner(s) conduct quality improvement reviews following
presentations of a learning activity.
QI evidence is included with each individual activity documentation form. (Refer to Appendix E-
2 for Sample Post Activity QI form.)
Key Element 11: Recordkeeping: Documentation for each educational activity, as noted in the
Provider Unit Guidelines, is kept in a secure, confidential, and retrievable manner for six years.
A. We assure the consistent collection of all required documents and information by using the forms
provided by WSNA CEARP and following the directions to include additional required information
in the files.
Yes
No
B. We assure maintenance of all required documentation for six years through:
File checklist
Regular file audits
Other: describe
C. Security of files is maintained by:
Locked file cabinets
Locked offices
Restricted access
Computer passwords
Other: describe
D. Confidentiality of files is maintained by:
Access only by (describe who) PU Staff
Following facility policy Refer to policy on pp. xx
Other: describe:
E. Files can be retrieved by:
Request of Nurse Planner
Other (describe)
F. The physical address where files are maintained is: ABC Hospital, One Main Street, Anywhere, WA
Key Element 12: Co-provided Activities: Are conducted with the approved Provider Unit maintaining
responsibility for the following required elements:
Determination of educational objectives and content
Selection of content specialist planners & activity presenter(s)
Awarding of contact hours
Recordkeeping procedures
Evaluation methods and categories
Management of sponsorship and/or commercial support
A. Our Provider Unit co-provides CNE activities. (See Appendix H for details)
No
Yes
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B. We maintain responsibility for the above activities by:
Standard co-provider agreement signed by all parties which identifies responsibilities of each
party (required) See Appendix H-1 for Sample Agreement
Additional actions, if any:
CRITERION 3: UNIT OPERATIONS
The Provider Unit ensures the quality of CNE by following an established process involving a qualified
Nurse Planner for developing, delivering, and evaluating the effectiveness of the educational activities it
offers. Adequate resources are provided and utilized to support the Provider Unit‘s full range of
functions.
Key Element 1: Nurse Planner
A. Our Designated Nurse Planner is: (name and credentials) Dorothy Anderson, MN, BSN, RN
B. The qualifications of our Designated Nurse Planner include:
BSN (required if no higher degree in nursing)
Graduate degree in nursing
Higher degree in another field
Certification in nursing professional development
Other: describe
C. The functions of the Designated Nurse Planner are to:
Assess, plan, implement, and evaluate continuing nursing education activities
Oversee the work of other Nurse Planners
Coordinate evaluation of the Provider Unit (required)
Manage the continuing education office/department
Other: describe
D. The Designated Nurse Planner maintains awareness of current criteria/rules through:
Attending provider update workshops
Reading provider newsletters
Participating in internal educational activities related to the planning and review processes.
Other: describe Participate on a provider list serve to discuss issues, best practices, get updates
from other Provider Unit personnel in other states.
E. A copy of the position description for the Designated Nurse Planner is on page xx (see Appendix G
for sample position description) or listed here
F. There are additional Nurse Planners in our Provider Unit.
No (go to key element 2)
Yes (answer next question before proceeding to key element 2)
G. The Designated Nurse Planner assures that all Lead Nurse Planners are prepared, oriented, and
updated to function in the Lead Nurse Planner role by:
Sharing information from provider update workshops
Encouraging participation of other Nurse Planners in provider updates
Sharing provider newsletters
Conducting regular internal workshops
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Doing inter-rater reliability analyses
Other: describe
Key Element 2: Resources
A. The position description, including qualifications, for the Lead Nurse Planner role (in addition to
Designated Nurse Planner already addressed in key element 1, if applicable) is on page
(See Appendix G)
B. Names and credentials for other Lead Nurse Planners are: Barbara Peterson, BSN, RN & Susan
Little, MN, RN
C. Biographical Data forms for the Designated Nurse Planner and the current Lead Nurse Planners are
on pages xx. (Use attached form)
D. Names and credentials for reviewers are: Dorothy Anderson, MN, BSN, RN; Barbara Peterson,
BSN, RN; Susan Little, MN, RN (when one is a planner, the other is a reviewer.)
E. The position description, including qualifications, for the reviewer role is on page xx.
F. Biographical forms for current reviewers are on pages xx. (Use attached form)
G. Other key personnel in our Provider Unit include:
Administrative assistant
Other: describe
H. Names of these other key personnel (excluding reviewers) are Janice Conners, Administrative Asst.
I. Position descriptions for other key personnel are on pages xx.
J. Biographical form for other key personnel are on pages xx.
K. Material resources that support the Provider Unit include:
Computers and other technology support
Adequate office space
Conference / meeting rooms
Other: describe
L. Sources of financial support include:
Registration fees from learners
Internal department funding
Funding from larger organization
Commercial support and/or sponsorship
Other: describe
M. We anticipate that financial support for the Provider Unit will be sustained throughout the period of
approval by:
Continuation of above source(s) of funding
Other: describe
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N. Our organization receives commercial support from companies producing or selling products that are
used in patient care.
No (proceed to key element 3)
Yes (answer the following questions before proceeding to key element 3)
O. The amount of commercial support that has been received during the current Provider Unit approval
period is approximately $500
P. The frequency with which commercial support has been received is:
Less than 10% of our learning activities
10-25% of our learning activities
26-50% of our learning activities
51-75% of our learning activities
76-100% of our learning activities
Key Element 3: Business Practices
A. Our Provider Unit complies with all applicable local, regional, state, and national laws and
regulations and operates its business in an ethical manner. Dorothy Anderson, MN, BSN, RN
Signature of Admin.
B. Our Provider Unit complies with all ANCC Commission on Accreditation and WSNA CEARP
criteria as specified in the current Provider Guidelines. Dorothy Anderson, MN, BSN, RN
Signature of DNP
Other signatures appropriate to Provider Unit (if any): None
CRITERION 4: PROVIDER UNIT EVALUATION
The Provider Unit engages in an ongoing evaluation process to analyze its overall effectiveness in
fulfilling its beliefs, goals, and functions, and in providing quality continuing nursing education. Plans
and goals for the Provider Unit‘s future development in continuing nursing education are identified and
re-evaluated on a regular basis.
Key Element 1: Provider Unit Evaluation Process
Our 4-column evaluation plan below includes:
What is evaluated
When evaluation occurs
Who participates
Findings (results) of most recent evaluation, including what needed changed. If no changes were
needed, the rationale is stated.
The date of the most recent evaluation.
PROVIDER UNIT EVALUATION PLAN (see Appendix F for form)
WHAT IS WHEN IT IS WHO FINDINGS OF MOST RECENT
EVALUATED EVALUATED PARTICIPATES EVALUATION & DATE DONE
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Key Element 2: Provider Unit Evaluation Participants
People who participate in evaluation of our Provider Unit include:
Designated Nurse Planner (required)
Lead Nurse Planners including other Nurse Planners
Reviewers
Other organizational representatives (identify)
Learners
Faculty / content experts
Others (describe)
Key Element 3: Provider Unit Evaluation Results
Describe how the information in column 4 of your evaluation form (findings/results) has been used to
confirm, expand, and improve the operations of your Provider Unit. (What changes have you made
based on these findings?) If no changes were made, explain why not. see page xx
NOTE: Address goals in Key Element 4.
Key Element 4: Provider Unit Goals for Improvement
A. The Provider Unit‘s goals for improvement over the past three years (or 6 months for first time
applicants) have been addressed by:
Regular meetings of Provider Unit staff
Performance improvement / process improvement initiatives
Changes in learning activities
Changes in Provider Unit personnel and/or roles
Other (describe)
B. We have made the following progress in achieving these goals: Refer to Provider Unit Self
Assessment Summary on p ___.
C. We have identified new goals for improvement. These are: Page xx
D. Plans to achieve these new goals are: Page xx
Summary: Attach the following to the application:
Organizational chart for the Provider Unit with names and credentials;
Organizational chart for the larger organization, showing ―fit‖ of Provider Unit (if applicable);
Description of internal review process;
Description of APIE process;
Bio data forms for Provider Unit personnel;
For first time applicants:
1. A composite list of all completed activities during the past six months.
2. In addition submit:
Acknowledgement and approval letters from WSNA CEARP for the 3 activities WSNA
CEARP has approved
A summative evaluation for each of these 3 activities
Documentation for an activity that has been planned and will be reviewed and presented
after Provider Unit status has been achieved. Include all required attachments: bio data
forms, objectives, evaluation tool, marketing sample, certificate, evidence of disclosures
to be made, commercial support/sponsorship agreement if applicable, post-activity QI
tool. The marketing material and certificate should contain the required Provider
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statement that will be used by your organization once Provider Unit status has been
achieved.
The sample certificate that you will use once you become an approved Provider Unit. The
Provider Unit statement must be included on the certificate. (Key Element 7).
For reapplying applicants:
A composite list of all completed CNE activities with titles, dates presented and contact
hours provided in the past three (3) years.
A complete file for one CNE activity implemented during the prior three-year approval
period, including completed application, objectives, signed bio data forms, advertising
materials, review check lists, post activity QI form, evaluation summaries and changes
made as a result of evaluations must also be included.
.Upon receipt of the application, the CEARP Reviewer will select a minimum of two
completed CNE activities from the composite list and request submission of the
completed files for the two completed CNE activities selected.
Application Fee of $900.
Thank you for completing this application for Provider Unit approval. Submit three copies of your
completed application to:
Washington State Nurses Association
CEARP
575 Andover Park West, Suite 101
Seattle, WA 98188
You will receive confirmation that your materials have been received at WSNA and will be notified if
any additional information is needed before review by the CEARP Review Team. You will be
contacted by your reviewer within 30 days of receipt and informed of the status of your application. See
the Provider Unit Guidelines, for a more detailed explanation of this process.
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WASHINGTON STATE NURSES ASSOCIATION
Continuing Education Approval and Recognition Program (CEARP)
ATTESTATION STATEMENT REGARDING OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Operational requirements must be implemented by an approved Provider Unit throughout the period of approval. Adherence
to the operational requirements is assessed through the application.
Approved Provider Units will:
1. Use ANCC Commission on Accreditation educational design criterion as provided by WSNA CEARP to assess,
plan, implement and evaluate all continuing nursing education (CNE) activities.
2. Maintain responsibility for the following when / if activities are co-provided:
a. Determination of objectives and content
b. Selection of presenters / content experts
c. Awarding of contact hours
d. Record keeping
e. Evaluation
3. Maintain records for each activity for six years in a secure and confidential manner and include the following
essential information:
a. For each individual activity:
i. Title of the educational activity
ii. Number of contact hours awarded
iii. Names, titles, and expertise of persons responsible for planning the educational activity and
presenters / content experts
iv. Description of the needs assessment
v. Description of the target audience
vi. Location(s) and date(s) of the activity
vii. Names and unique identifier of participants
viii. Purpose
ix. Objectives, content outline and time frame
x. Teaching / learning strategies, including resources, materials, delivery methods, and learner
feedback.
xi. Process to verify completion of the educational activity, the requirements for successful
completion, and how learners were informed of these requirements prior to the start of the
activity.
xii. Sample of the certificate awarded to participants.
xiii. Copy of the evaluation tool(s), including a summative evaluation
xiv. Copy of the marketing materials
xv. If applicable, documentation of how co-providership responsibilities were maintained
xvi. Declaration of vested interest of faculty
xvii. If applicable, documentation of how program integrity was maintained for educational activity
receiving commercial support.
xviii. Post Activity QI Report.
b. All Provider Unit applications and correspondence with WSNA CEARP.
c. Any reportable changes made during the provider's approval period.
4. Verify participation and requirements for successful completion of all educational activities, and identify how
learners are informed of these expectations prior to the activity.
5. Provide participants who successfully complete an educational activity with written verification of completion
which includes the following:
a. Name of the learner
b. Number of contact hours awarded
c. Name and address of the provider of the educational activity
d. The title and date of the educational activity
e. Official approval statement and assigned provider number:
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Name of Approved Provider Unit is an approved provider of continuing nursing education by the
Washington State Nurses Association, an accredited approver by the American Nurses Credentialing
Center's Commission on Accreditation.
6. Maintain timely communication with WSNA CEARP by providing at a minimum:
a. Reports of data requested by WSNA CEARP.
b. Within 30 days, information about change in (1) name, ownership, or structure of the organization,
or (2) change in the Designated Nurse Planner and/or Lead Nurse Planners, or (3) change in the
name of the contact person. A new bio data form will be submitted with each new person. Any
new Designated Nurse Planner must sign this attestation statement.
c. Information about termination of approved Provider Unit‘s activities, within 30 days of the decision to
terminate.
7. Use appropriate language for the activity approval on all communications, marketing materials, and certificates of
attendance. (See 5.e. above).
8. Implement the ANCC Commission on Accreditation system of awarding credit:
a. The appropriate measure of credit is the 60-minute contact hour.
b. A contact hour is 60 minutes of organized learning activity, which is either a didactic or clinical experience.
c. The minimum number of contact hours to be awarded is 0.5.
d. After the first contact hour, fractions or portions of the 60-minute hour may be calculated up to 1/100th of
the hour. For example, 90 minutes of learning experience equals 1.5 contact hours.
e. Welcome, introductions, breaks, and viewing of exhibits are not included in the calculation of contact
hours.
9. Provide but not approve activities. Provider Units can only provide activities in which the Provider Unit Nurse
Planner(s) assume(s) an active role in the entire process, from planning through evaluation. Provider Units can
never approve activities.
10. Ensure that all continuing nursing education activities are free from bias by having all presenters declare any vested
interests.
11. In the event that any form of commercial support or sponsorship is provided for an educational activity, maintain
control of the educational content and disclose to the learners all financial relationships or lack of, between the
commercial supporter and the Provider Unit or presenters. (Refer to Appendix J for complete information).
a. Funds from a commercial source or sponsor should be in the form of an educational grant to the provider of
the educational activity and must be acknowledged in printed material, brochures and electronic
promotions
b. Arrangements for commercial exhibits will not influence the planning of or interfere with the presentation
of educational activities.
c. Learners will be made aware of the nature of all commercial support or sponsorships of all educational
activities.
d. Educational activities are distinguished as separate from endorsement of commercial products. When
commercial products are displayed, participants will be advised that approved status refers only to its
continuing education activities and does not imply ANCC Commission on Accreditation and WSNA
endorsement of any commercial product.
e. Educational activities that present research conducted by commercial companies will be designed and
presented with scientific objectivity.
f. Learners will be informed of any off label use of a commercial product that is presented in educational
activities.
I agree to adhere to these operational requirements for continuing nursing education.
Name Provider Unit: __ _________________________
Name Designated Nurse Planner: _____________________________________ Date: ________
(Electronic Signature permissible)
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SAMPLE
ABC HOSPITAL
Biographical Data Form for Provider Unit Personnel - 2010
Instructions: Complete this form for all personnel involved in the Provider Unit – Nurse Planners,
Reviewers, and others. Copy as needed. This form is only used with the provider application. This form
is not to be used for individual activities. Use the full biographical data form for individual activities.
Date: September 3, 2010
Name, Degrees & Credentials: Dorothy Anderson, MN, BSN, RN
Day Telephone: 206-575-7979 Email Address: danderson@abchospital.org
Name of Provider Unit: ABC Hospital
Present Position (Title) & Employer: Director, Education Dept.
My role in the Provider Unit is as:
Designated Nurse Planner
Lead Nurse Planner
Nurse Reviewer
Administrator
Administrative Assistant
Other: (Describe)
Educational Preparation:
Nursing degree(s): Non Nursing Degree(s):
Associate BA
Diploma Bachelor in
Baccalaureate Masters in
Masters Post graduate
Doctorate Doctorate in
My responsibilities/expertise for the Provider Unit include: Provide leadership for the design and
development of educational programs, topics and content including identification of and communication
with potential speakers; make arranges for educational venues with support from office administrative
assistant staff; work closely with Lead Planners in the APIE process. Provide updates to PU staff re
ANCC CNE criteria.
Describe your education, experience, and any certification related to providing CNE.
Note: ANCC requires that the Designated and Lead Nurse Planners must have education or experience
(in planning, implementation, or analysis of evaluations) in the field of education or adult learning.
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Sample
ABC HOSPITAL
Provider Unit
Evaluation Plan
What Is When It Is Who Participates Finding of Most Recent
Evaluated Evaluated Evaluation and Date Done
1. ABC Hospital PU Annually PU professional staff Philosophy, goals updated and
vision, mission, approved by Hospital Administration
goals and 7/2008
organizational
structure reflect
educational needs
of nursing staff.
2. CNE programs Ongoing after PU professional staff List of CNE activities held from 2006-
provided by each activity 2010 attached with completed Post
ABC…. presented. Activity QI reports.
3. Implementation
of ABC PU CNE
programs in
accordance with
ANCC COA and
WSNA CEARP
provider unit
criteria including:
a. qualifications a. Ongoing as PU professional staff Completed October , 2007
of PU staff; staff
changes
made;
b. APIE b. QI review of PU professional staff QI form revised to better document
process; each activity outcomes and ways to improve
after it is activities in May, 2008
completed.
c. internal Ongoing PU professional staff Checklist of required documentation for
review each activity revised June 2008 with
process to improved filing system
assure
documentatio
n of each
activity.
d. records Annually PU Professional staff Reviewed/no changes required: Jan
maintained 2007, 2008, 2009
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4. Evaluate internal Ongoing All PU staff Revised and updated bio data forms and
policies/procedur vested interest as required by ANCC
es to assure and WSNA CEARP. Jan, 2007
efficient and
reliable APIE for Reviewed computer hardware and
all educational software, storage capacity for
activities. confidentiality of records and supplies
for daily office function; instituted
related changes as needed: 2007, 2008,
2009.
Income and expenses reviewed with
appropriate modifications as needed:
May, 2007, 2008, 2009.
5. Assess Ongoing PU professional staff Attendance sign-in sheets evaluated for
attendance for each CNE activity; recommendations
each activity to made to nurse planners for
monitor staff continuation/discontinuation or
involvement and reformatting for future.
relevance to staff
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
A. Can Contact Hours be awarded to Faculty?
In activities with multiple topics and presenters, the faculty may be awarded contact hours for the
parts of the program presented by others and in which they participate as learners.
B. What if there are major changes in Learning Activities?
If a learning activity has met the criteria and there is a significant change in the content, then another
planning documentation form must be completed and reviewed by the approved Provider Unit. For
example, significant change could be substituting a new one hour segment for one that previously
met criteria, changing objectives and content, etc.
If the speaker changes, but the new speaker will continue to present the same content and use the
same objectives and time frames, place a memo in the activity file regarding this change and include
the bio data form including conflict of interest statement for the new speaker. Feel free to contact
the WSNA Education Program Specialist with any questions regarding the need for another planning
documentation form or just a memo.
C. What if portions of classes are being repeated?
If during the planning process, it is identified that certain session(s) out of a larger presentation may
potentially be repeated separately, the Provider Unit should:
1. Identify each section of the larger presentation as a potential, separate session (e.g. Session 1:
Acute Respiratory Distress; Session 2: Chronic Respirator distress, etc.)
2. Identify in Key Element 3, item F-1 of the CNE form that learners may attend one or more
sessions. (Just as a note: you might also wish to include the information on the advertising
material.)
3. On the certificate, identify the sessions the learner attended, the date and the contact hours
awarded for those sessions (e.g., ―Learner name successfully completed (name of session 1)…..
Session 4……Session 7….. on date.‖ )
D. What about courses addressing Complementary or Alternative (Therapeutic) Modalities?
The American Holistic Nurses Association developed the following requirements regarding
therapeutic modalities (complementary or alternative modalities) (2005). The WSNA CEARP
recommends that Provider Units follow these guidelines.
1. Therapeutic modality is clearly supported by theory or research published in professional
literature in the last five years if there is research available. The research must be made available
to the nurse planner/planning committee upon request. This would be required if the modality is
in question by staff, nurse planners, reviewers or CEARP members.
2. The learning activity clearly discriminates between use of the modality for self-care or personal
development as opposed to appropriate use of the modality with a client population.
3. The learning activity defines and assures a recognized minimum of training when modalities
taught are intended for professional use with a client population.
4. The learning activity is consistent with the standards of the appropriate professional association
related to the topic. For example, the AHNA has the Holistic Nurses Association Standards of
Holistic Nursing Practice that address holistic nursing can be found on their website
www.ahna.org.
5. Presenter has the appropriate credentials and experience to provide the learning activity.
6. NOTE: The provision of contact hours by the Provider Unit is based on an assessment of the
educational design criteria for the learning activity and does not constitute endorsement of the
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use of a specific modality in the care of clients. (Some organizations chose to include this
statement on advertising or the handouts.)
E. How do I handle a request to repeat a learning activity by a Co-Provider?
If an approved Provider Unit and an outside entity (individual, company, etc.) plan a CNE Activity
together (co-provide), the approved Provider Unit should process the Planning Documentation form
within their internal peer review system with one of its Designated Nurse Planners as part of the
planning process. If the co-provider then wishes to repeat the CNE activity separately from the
approved Provider Unit, the co-provider must submit an application through an approver such as
WSNA CEARP. The approved Provider Unit may not approve the activity for the organization that
was previously a co-provider for that activity, nor may the approved provider allow the outside
entity to use the Provider Unit‘s contact hours for repetition of the activity.
F. How can I keep up to date?
It is the responsibility of the nurse planners and peer reviewers to stay up to date with the most
current ANCC COA and WSNA CEARP CNE criteria. This can be accomplished by:
1. Attending the annual Provider Update Conference presented by WSNA CEARP (starting in
September, 2010);
2. Reviewing the Provider newsletters (HIGHLIGHTS sent electronically two times per year);
3. Reviewing the most current Provider Guidelines;
4. Contacting the Education Program Specialist with any questions.
G. Other Questions/Concerns?
If other issues arise that generate questions, please contact Hilke Faber, Education Program
Specialist at WSNA, hfaber@wsna.org , 206-575-7979 ext. 3005 or Kathryn MacLeod,
Communications Processor at kmacleod@wsna.org or 206-575-7979 ext. 3011.
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