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Nursing is one of the most essential and noble professions in Kenya's healthcare system. To become a certified and legally recognized nurse, one must meet specific academic, regulatory, and professional standards. These standards are overseen by the Nursing Council of Kenya (NCK), the national body responsible for the regulation and licensing of all nurses and midwives in the country.
To begin the journey toward becoming a certified nurse, one must first attain the necessary academic foundation:
-Certificate in Nursing (Enrolled Nurse): Requires a mean grade of C- (minus) in KCSE with specific passes in Biology, English or Kiswahili, and either Chemistry or Physics/Mathematics.
-Diploma in Nursing (Kenya Registered Community Health Nurse - KRCHN): Requires a KCSE mean grade of C (plain) or higher, with C in English or Kiswahili, and Biology, and C- in either Mathematics, Chemistry, or Physics.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN): Demands a mean grade of C+ (plus) or higher in KCSE, with mandatory subject requirements in English or Kiswahili, Biology, Chemistry, and either Physics or Mathematics.
Applicants must undertake nursing education at institutions accredited by the NCK, such as the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) or approved universities and private colleges.
After completing the theoretical component, students must go through structured clinical training. This includes rotations in key health departments such as:
-Medical-surgical wards
-Pediatrics
-Maternity and obstetrics
-Mental health and psychiatry
-Community health
For degree holders and diploma graduates, an additional mandatory one-year internship must be undertaken in a licensed health facility under the supervision of senior registered nurses and clinical instructors. This internship is essential for gaining hands-on experience and refining clinical skills.
Before registration, all nursing graduates must sit for the Nursing Council of Kenya Licensure Examination. This national exam assesses both theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for safe and ethical nursing practice.
Examinations are conducted periodically, and applicants must register in advance. The exam is standardized and must be passed to proceed with certification.
Upon passing the licensure examination, candidates are eligible to register with the NCK. The process includes:
-Submitting original academic certificates
-Evidence of internship completion
Proof of identity (national ID/passport)
-Recent passport-sized photographs
-Payment of a registration and licensing fee
Successful applicants are then issued a Certificate of Registration and a Practicing License, both of which are legally required to work as a nurse in Kenya.
Certification is not a one-time event. Registered nurses are required to renew their licenses annually, which includes fulfilling a specified number of CPD hours. This ensures that nurses stay up-to-date with current practices, technologies, and healthcare guidelines.
Failure to accumulate CPD points or renew one’s license may lead to suspension or revocation of practice rights.
Becoming a certified nurse in Kenya is a rigorous but rewarding process. From academic excellence to clinical experience and regulatory approval, each stage plays a critical role in producing competent, compassionate, and accountable healthcare professionals. The Nursing Council of Kenya serves as the gatekeeper of quality, ensuring only qualified individuals serve in this vital profession.
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