Continuing Education Credits Vs. Re- Testing

There has been much debate concerning Continuing Education Credits or Units (CEUs) versus re-certification by examination as a measure of competency of professionals in infection prevention. The value of the certification has never been in question. However the path to achieving re- certification has been highly debated.

Reasons given by a number of infection preventionists for why they find CEUs appealing are: –Convenience –Saves time –Lower cost –Preparation not required –Ease of use

Let’s examine CEUs versus written tests

CEUs are convenient and time saving. Finding courses or educational sessions that provide CEUs in all aspects of infection prevention is difficult. The IP would be required to take numerous courses, possibly in a variety of modalities (i.e. on computer, off-site lectures). Time will have to be allotted for travel for each event and/or computer sessions.

CEUs cost less than re-certification Courses offering CEU can begin at $150- $200 and increase to $600 per course. Current cost of re-certification is $325 every 5 years. That is $65.00 per year or $5.40 per month.

CEU preparation and ease of use Frequently, courses or educational sessions providing CEUs do not require preparation nor do they have a method to demonstrate competency at completion of the course. However, they do not assess competency at the completion of the course.

Advantages of re-examination Once you take the certification examination: You do not have to re-certify for 5 years!!!! No keeping a record of courses taken! No tallying up points to meet criteria! No worry, no fuss!

The CBIC certification examination is a proven method of demonstrating the competency of those individuals who take the exam. The certification examination is not designed to be easy. It is designed to measure the knowledge and the skills of those who take the exam.

Certification in infection control and prevention is viewed by employers and colleagues as an indication of an advanced level of knowledge and of professional growth by the IP. A podcast about this can be found on the Media page at

In the CBIC podcast titled ‘Re-examination versus Continuing Education Units’, January 2013, CEUs and the merits of re- certification as a measure of competency are thoroughly explored.

The Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc. (CBIC) enlists the services of Prometric, a testing company that provides expertise and ensures CBIC meets the National Commission for Certifying Agencies standards for accreditation so that they can provide a high quality certification examination.

Summary CEUs: Play a role in the education of the health care professional. Allow healthcare professionals to broaden their knowledge on a variety of subjects They do not measure competency.

Certification in infection control and prevention is a commitment to the profession. Certification and the CIC ® designation demonstrate commitment to the profession. Summary

For more information regarding certification, please contact our Executive Office at or