Time Management Tips for Nurses Completing CEUs

For most nurses, juggling a full workload, family responsibilities, and continuing education can feel overwhelming. Yet completing continuing education units (CEUs) is a non-negotiable part of license renewal and professional growth.

The good news? With the right strategies and tools, CEUs can fit seamlessly into your routine without adding stress.

Here are time-tested tips to help you stay on top of your CEUs and make the most of your learning.

1. Know Your Renewal Deadlines

The first step in staying organized is understanding your state’s license renewal schedule. For example:

Florida nurses must complete 24 CEUs every two years, including courses in laws and rules, human trafficking, and medical error prevention.
Georgia nurses must renew their license every two years with Georgia Board of Nursing approved CEU providers.

Mark your renewal deadline on your calendar and set reminders at 6 months, 3 months, and 1 month out.

2. Break It Down

Instead of waiting until the last minute, break your CEU requirements into manageable chunks. Completing one or two online continuing education courses per month can help you avoid the end-of-cycle crunch.

Use a spreadsheet or CE tracker to monitor which requirements you’ve met, especially if your state mandates certain topics.

3. Use Pockets of Time

Nurses rarely get big blocks of free time, but you can still learn in short bursts. Choose self-paced CEUs that you can complete during lunch breaks, commute downtime, or after your shift.

Look for mobile-optimized courses that make it easy to stop and resume anytime.

4. Prioritize What Matters

Not all CEUs are created equal. Choose CE courses that:

Meet state and specialty requirements
Build toward your long-term goals
Keep you engaged with real-world scenarios

For example, if you’re an RN interested in leadership, look for ANCC approved CE bundles in communication, delegation, or healthcare ethics.

5. Use a Reputable Provider

Stick with providers that are approved by your state board of nursing, clearly outline course hours, and offer certificates upon completion.

CE Ready offers State-specific CEU packages, nursing CEUs online, and topic-specific courses designed for busy LPNs, RNs, and APRNs. Choose bundles that are structured to save you time while maintaining quality.

6. Make CEUs Part of Your Routine

If you set aside just 15–20 minutes two to three times a week, you’ll be amazed at how much you can accomplish. Treat CEUs like any other part of your professional routine, because staying compliant protects both your license and your patients.

Key Takeaways:

Track your deadlines and required topics
Break CEUs into smaller sessions over time
Use downtime effectively
Choose high-impact, goal-aligned courses
Stick with reputable, state-approved providers
Make CEU time part of your regular routine

Continuing education doesn’t have to be a burden. With the right approach, it can be an empowering part of your career development.

References

American Nurses Association (2023). Managing Continuing Education as a Working Nurse. www.nursingworld.org
NCSBN (2024). CE Requirements by State. www.ncsbn.org