About the CBN Credential
The Certified Bariatric Nurse (CBN) credential signifies a nurse’s expertise in delivering high-quality care to metabolic and bariatric surgery patients. Awarded by the CBN Accreditation Council, this certification demonstrates advanced skills and specialized knowledge in bariatric nursing.
To earn the CBN credential, candidates must:
- Be currently licensed as a Professional Nurse
- Have two years of experience caring for bariatric patients
- Pass the CBN examination
- Complete eligibility information available in the 2024-2025 CBN 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 Program, developed by ASMBS, is dedicated to advancing the field of bariatric nursing and ensuring high standards in patient care.
Vision
Our vision is to provide the premier credential to professional nurses caring for patients affected by severe obesity, and the metabolic and bariatric surgical patient.
Mission
The CBN Accreditation Council of the Integrated Health Section of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery is dedicated to enhancing and promoting the specialty of metabolic and bariatric surgery nursing care. This certification examination program is based on a distinct and well-defined field of nursing practice subscribing to the overall purpose and functions of nursing. Metabolic and bariatric surgery nursing is a specialty distinct from other nursing specialties and is national in scope. There is an identified need for the specialty and nurses who devote most of their practice to the specialty.
CBN Quick Links
Practice Analysis for Certified Bariatric Nurses (CBN)
In 2006, the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) conducted a nationwide role delineation study to define the responsibilities and tasks essential to competent performance as a Bariatric Nurse. This foundational work established the basis for the Certified Bariatric Nurse (CBN) credential.
The study was updated in 2016 and most recently in 2022 to ensure continued alignment with current clinical practices and professional standards. The 2022 practice analysis serves as the current source for determining the content outline, scope, and complexity of the CBN examination.
The Practice Analysis Writing Group believes that transparency and access to this information is an invaluable resource for the nursing community. The report linked below has been peer-reviewed by ASMBS leadership and is now available for public access.
We invite you to review this document to deepen your understanding of the bariatric nursing specialty.
Download: Metabolic and Bariatric Nursing Practice Analysis: An Update
Practice Analysis Writing Group
Melissa G. Rowan, BSN, RN, CBN
Carmela Pontillo, MSN, RN, CBN
Thomas Trautman, MS, ICE-CCP
Veronica Cook Gardner, MSN, RN, CBN
Sue Dugan, BSN, RN, CBN (Ret.)
Teresa Fraker, FACHE, RN, CPHQ, CBN, FASMBS-IH
Linda Neumann-Potash, MN, RN, CBN
William Gourash, PhD, CRNP, RN, CBN, FASMBS-IH
The Value of the CBN Credential
The Certified Bariatric Nurse (CBN) credential is a mark of excellence in metabolic and bariatric surgery, benefiting both nurses and employers. It demonstrates specialized knowledge, clinical competence, and a commitment to quality patient care.
For Nurses:
- Recognition of expertise in bariatric care
- Career advancement and professional growth
- Proof of dedication to the field
For Employers:
- Enhanced patient outcomes and satisfaction
- Support for facility accreditation (e.g., ANCC Magnet Recognition)
- Reduced insurance premiums and turnover
- Increased trust and credibility with patients
- A competitive edge in the healthcare market
Hiring Certified Bariatric Nurses showcases a commitment to exceptional care and ensures that patients are treated by experts in the field.