About the CBN Credential
The Certified Bariatric Nurse (CBN) credential and designation signifies a nurse’s expertise in delivering high-quality care to patients with obesity across the continuum of care, including pre-clinical, clinical, and metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) settings. Awarded by the CBN Certification Council, this certification demonstrates advanced skills and specialized knowledge in metabolic and bariatric nursing.
The CBN Certification Program is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA), providing independent, third-party validation that the program meets established standards for quality and rigor in professional certification.
To earn the CBN credential, candidates must:
- Be currently licensed as a Registered Nurse, or international equivalent
- Have a minimum of two years of specialty experience, and at least 2,000 hours of obesity (pre-clinical or clinical) and/or metabolic and bariatric surgery nursing practice within the previous four years
- Pass the CBN examination
- Complete eligibility information available in the 2026- 2027 CBN Candidate Handbook
The credential is valid for four years, with the option to recertify to maintain it.
Certification not only enhances individual nursing skills but also contributes to improved patient outcomes, as supported by a 2014 study linking RN specialty certification to better surgical results. Clinics and employers benefit from nurses with CBN credentials through enhanced patient care and reduced complications.
The CBN Certification Program was developed by bariatric nurse members of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, with organizational support, and is maintained to advanced the nursing speciality of metabolic and bariatric nursing and ensure high standards in patient care.
CBN Quick Links
Show Off Your CBN Certification with a Pin
Proudly display your CBN credential with an official CBN pin. Wearing your pin is a great way to highlight your professional achievement, raise awareness of CBN certification, and inspire others in your workplace to pursue excellence in metabolic and bariatric nursing.
Request a Printed Certificate
CBN certificants may request a replacement printed certificate by mail. All requests are reviewed to verify current certification status and eligibility.
Connect With the CBN Community
CBN-certified nurses can connect with other certificants through the ASMBS IH CBN – Certified Bariatric Nurses Private Facebook Group. The private group provides a space for CBNs to connect with colleagues, share professional information and resources, and stay engaged with the CBN community.
Represent Your CBN Credential
Celebrate your achievement and represent your CBN credential with official CBN apparel and accessories available in the ASMBS Marketplace. Whether at work, at professional events, or in your everyday life, show your pride in being part of the Certified Bariatric Nurse community.
Interested in Joining the CBN Certification Committee?
Help advance the field of metabolic and bariatric nursing by volunteering with the CBN Certification Program. Committee members contribute to certification standards, examination development, recertification processes, and other activities that support the quality and integrity of the CBN credential.
Whether you’re newly certified or have years of experience in metabolic and bariatric nursing, your expertise and perspective can make a difference.
Interested in getting involved? Apply to join the committee or contact us at cbn@asmbs.org to learn more about volunteer opportunities.