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What is NANN's Neonatal Developmental Care Specialist Designation?

The Developmental Care Specialist Designation (DCSD), offered by the National Association of Neonatal Nurses (NANN), is an assessment-based designation that recognizes neonatal healthcare professionals—including nurses, advanced practice providers, and therapists—for their expertise in developmental and family-centered care. 

Through a self-paced, online exam consisting of 80 knowledge-based and 20 scenario-based questions, candidates demonstrate their understanding of evidence-based practices aligned with the third edition of Developmental Care of Newborns & Infants. No minimum experience is required, but candidates should be competent and committed to developmental care. Upon passing with a score of 80% or higher, participants earn the Developmental Care Specialist Designation, which is valid for 3 years and can be renewed through re-examination or of submitting 20 continuing education hours. The designation promotes professional recognition, career advancement, and improved patient outcomes through holistic, individualized care.

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“In neonatal care, every action, sound, and touch shape the infant’s development. 

The Neonatal Developmental Care Specialist designation represents a commitment to excellence in supporting the growth, development, and well-being of the infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. 

For healthcare professionals, earning this designation is not only a mark of expertise, but also a step towards transforming care, practices, and outcomes. 

The Neonatal Developmental Care Specialist designation is more than a credential. It’s a commitment to nurturing the neonatal infant and their family with knowledge, compassion, and precision.” 

-Danielle Campbell, BSN RN RNC-NIC C-ELBW DCSD (DCSD Task Force Member, 2026) 

Interested in a Group Purchase?

Looking to support multiple members of your NICU care team in earning the DCSD?

Group participation makes it easier for teams to build shared expertise, and special group pricing is available.

If you’re interested in having your team pursue the Developmental Care Specialist Designation together and receiving the best possible rate for your unit, reach out at [email protected] to learn more about group options.

Invest in your team. Strengthen developmental care. Get started today.

Developmental Care Specialist Designation Task Force

NANN would like to recognize the exceptional individuals who revised and updated the 2025 Developmental Care Specialist Designation materials:

William L. Hull, DNP, APRN, NNP-BC, RNC-NIC, C-ELBW, CNE, DCSD (Task Force Chair)

Corinne E. George, MSN, NNP-BC, RNC-NIC, RNC-LRN. C-ELBW

Danielle Campbell, BSN, RN, RNC-NIC, C-ELBW

Elizabeth Jeanson, PT, DPT

Jacquelyn M. Wallis, BSN, RN, RNC-NIC, C-ELBW

Stacy Greblick, CNS, RNC-NIC, C-ELBW

Victoria Gallagher-Keena, BSN, RN