Developing continuing education for contact hour approval

Developing quality nursing continuing education for contact hour approval requires a basic understanding of the nursing continuing education system and the application process. The Regional Education Approver Unit (REAU) of the National Association of Orthopaedic Nurses (NAON) helps providers (i.e., members, chapters, corporate members) develop educational activities and grants contact hour approval. This article reviews terminology used in nursing continuing education and the application process for contact hour approval through NAON.