The Pulse | Friday, February 26, 2021

CGRN Study Tips From Fellow SGNA Members

Achieving the Certified Gastroenterology Registered Nurse (CGRN) credential is a significant milestone in any GI nurse’s career. It takes dedicated and thorough studying, which often starts months in advance. We spoke with a few SGNA members who proudly wear the CGRN letters to get their advice and best practices on preparing for the exam.

 

“When I was studying to take my certification exam, our region was the site of the SGNA Annual Course and a certification test site. The region put together a review course, which was taught by registered nurses and medical doctors across the metro region. We met every week after work and reviewed a chapter at a time. This was a great way to study — not only was there a permanent bond between the group, but we were able to learn from each other’s experience.” —Jeanine Penberthy MSN RN CGRN 

 

“I took the CGRN test originally in 1987! Back then there wasn’t a study guide, so I used the GNJ magazine and the contact hour courses included in them. I also asked a lot of questions of the doctors I worked with. 

“The second time I took the test — because I didn’t have enough contact hours to renew the first time — some study guides were available. ABCGN gave a summary of the subjects to be covered so I tried to review those.

“Each time I took the test it was SO hard! I never felt good about it afterward, but I passed both times!”  —Barbara Darby, BSN RN CGRN

 

“We formed a study group of three people. We met once every two weeks after completing our reading assignments from the Core Curriculum. Each of us also printed four note cards with four questions per chapter from the reading. At the end of the night, we had 12 questions we developed and shared. We would spend two hours discussing our readings and answers to the questions, as well as reviewing the questions in the book at the end of the chapters.

“Find a few people to study with. It encourages you to get the work done. Write out a timeline or on a calendar what readings will be assigned by which dates. Give yourself plenty of time to prepare for the exam. I think we started about 10 months ahead of time. Remember to make it fun!” —Janet King, BSN RN DIPL CGRN

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SGNA is excited to announce the launch of a new learning opportunity, GI/Endoscopy Nursing Review Course: A Self-Study Resource! This resource supports the content, training and practice of those preparing for the American Board of Certification for Gastroenterology Nurses (ABCGN) CGRN exam. Visit the eLearning Center for more information.