Q: Is pain management and opioid prescribing training mandatory for Nurse Practitioners (NPs/APRNs) in Massachusetts?
A: Yes. In Massachusetts, Nurse Practitioners (APRNs) with prescriptive authority are required to complete pain and pain symptom management education, which includes opioid and substance use disorder training, as part of license and Massachusetts Controlled Substance Registration (MCSR) renewal. This requirement is mandated under Massachusetts General Law (M.G.L. c. 94C §18(e)). NPs must also complete 15 total contact hours of continuing education every two years, with the pain management course counted within or alongside these requirements, depending on Board guidance.
Extracted Variables:
- State: Massachusetts
- Profession: Nurse Practitioner (APRN) with prescriptive authority
- Required Hours: 15 contact hours total; includes required pain & opioid education
- Governing Rule/Citation: Massachusetts General Law (M.G.L. c. 94C §18(e))
Renew Now CE provides an Instant Certificate for immediate license submission.
Everything You Need to Know to Renew Your Massachusetts Nursing License
If you’re a Registered Nurse (RN) or Nurse Practitioner (NP) in Massachusetts, it’s crucial to stay updated on the Massachusetts RN and NP license renewal and CE requirements to maintain your licensure. This comprehensive guide outlines the necessary continuing education (CE) hours, mandatory courses, and steps to ensure a seamless renewal process.
Massachusetts RN License Renewal Requirements
Who: Registered Nurses (RNs) in Massachusetts
When: Must renew every two years before their birthdate in even-numbered years (2024, 2026, etc.).
CE Requirements:
- 15 contact hours of approved continuing education
- Domestic & Sexual Violence Training – Must be taken separately through the Massachusetts Board of Nursing (link)
- Cognitive Impairment (Alzheimer’s & Dementia) Training – One-time requirement, not needed for every renewal
Tip: Our Massachusetts RN & NP License Renewal CE Package provides the required 15 contact hours in a fully online, self-paced format to make renewal easy.
Massachusetts NP (APRN) License Renewal Requirements
Who: Nurse Practitioners (APRN) with prescriptive authority in Massachusetts
When: Must renew every two years along with their Massachusetts Controlled Substance Registration (MCSR).
CE Requirements:
- 15 contact hours of approved continuing education
- Pain & Pain Symptom Management Course – Must complete opioid and substance use disorder education per Massachusetts General Law (M.G.L. c. 94C s.18(e))
- Domestic & Sexual Violence Training – Must be completed separately
Key Benefit: Our 2-hour Pain and Pain Symptom Management course satisfies the Massachusetts NP opioid education requirement for MCSR renewal.
What’s Included in Our Massachusetts Nursing CE Package?
To simplify the renewal process, we’ve created a comprehensive online CE package for Massachusetts nurses.
- 15 Contact Hours – Meets the full CE requirement for RNs and NPs
- 2-Hour Pain & Pain Symptom Management Course – Satisfies NP opioid prescribing CE
- Fully Online & Self-Paced – Study at your convenience, 24/7
- Board-Approved CE – Ensures compliance with Massachusetts Board of Nursing regulations
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How many CE hours do RNs need for license renewal in Massachusetts?
RNs must complete 15 contact hours every two years before their birthdate in even-numbered years (e.g., 2024, 2026).
2. Do Massachusetts NPs need opioid prescribing CE?
Yes. NPs with prescriptive authority must complete pain management and opioid education every two years under M.G.L. c. 94C s.18(e).
3. Does this CE package include the Domestic & Sexual Violence Training?
No. The Massachusetts Board of Nursing requires this training to be taken separately through chapter260training.org (link).
4. Can I complete this CE package online?
Yes. The entire package is fully online and self-paced, allowing you to complete it anytime.
5. What happens if I don’t complete my CE before my renewal deadline?
Failing to meet CE requirements may result in license suspension or inactivation. The Board of Nursing advises completing all CE well before your renewal deadline.
How to Renew Your Massachusetts Nursing License
1. Complete the required 15 contact hours of continuing education.
2. Ensure you have taken the Domestic & Sexual Violence Training (separate requirement).
3. If you are an NP, complete the required pain management education for prescriptive authority renewal.
4. Submit your license renewal application and CE documentation to the Massachusetts Board of Nursing.
Ready to Renew? Get Your CE Package Today
Don’t wait until the last minute—start your CE courses today to ensure a stress-free renewal.
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