04/10/2026
Informally, using abbreviations such as “FCN” or “AFCN” like in a text message sure; but using it to describe a credential or as a designation could lead to disciplinary action from your licensing body. As Nurses we are not here to confuse the public, and those credentials just do not exist. Be careful what you put in your advertising or how you are representing yourself to the general public.
Nurses taking an Advanced Foot Care Nurse Program (any program) receive a CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION. This does NOT 🚫 equal a CERTIFICATION ❌. Certification is a completely separate voluntary process that is now available through the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA).
Additionally, accreditation/certification of a PROGRAM does NOT 🚫 mean a nurse is automatically certified if they take that particular program, or that a program is better than a program that is unaccredited.
They are two separate things, and there has been misinformation in advertising of late. It is important nurses do their own research and do not take everything they hear at face value. Just because others do it, does not mean it is actually acceptable and that you should as well (another example, posting unsolicited testimonials).
The example screen shot in this reel is what the Nova Scotia regulator states on it. Always review your provincial nursing guidelines & check with your provincial/territorial licensing body if you are not sure.
Have questions? Feel free to reach out ☺️
This rants content and reel are human made, mistakes and all. 🚫🤖🥱
