Eligibility

Practice in the area of vascular access is required for initial certification. Current practice in vascular access must use the knowledge and skills described in the content outline.

The examination measures the basic knowledge, skills and abilities expected of professionals working in vascular access. Having a thorough and sound foundation of the knowledge and skills required for competent practice in vascular access is essential. Knowledge can be obtained through work experiences and independent learning, as well as through formal educational programs. These components afford the candidate exposure and professional development and education in the vascular access specialty. Each candidate should assess their own body of knowledge, skills and understanding of the specialty in deciding when to sit for the exam.

VA-BC™ Eligibility Requirements:

All Candidates must:

1. Have a minimum of a post-secondary education (eg: LPN, nursing diploma, associates, bachelors)
2. Be a credentialed healthcare professional in a clinical practice that requires skills in vascular access: (e.g.: MD, PA, NP, RN, LPN/LVN, RRT, RT, EMT, and healthcare educators that teach in these areas.)
3. Have a minimum of 1 year of professional experience. Practice in the area of vascular access is required for initial certification.
4. Attest they meet one of the following criteria
   1. Health Care Professional in the field of Vascular Access involved in assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating the care and needs of patients and clients who require vascular access in the course of their care.
   2. Professional working in a field that complements Vascular Access, such as Educators, Administrators, Infection Control Professionals, Nutrition Support Professionals.

The working definition of current clinical practice must include at least two (2) of the following activities:

1. Assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating the care and needs of patients and clients who require vascular access in the course of their care
2. Education of individuals in best practice as it pertains to vascular access
3. Development and revision of vascular access policies and procedures
4. Management of vascular access activities
5. Provision of consultation of vascular access activities

Self-employed individuals must meet the same practice criteria as above.

Note-This certification is NOT intended for sales, marketing, or other non-clinical industry professionals, and all candidates must legally attest that they meet practice requirements, which is subject to verification by the staff of the Vascular Access Certification Corporation. For industry professionals interested in furthering their knowledge of Vascular Access, please review the Vascular Access Industry Partner™ Program