Publication: Publish an article in a peer reviewed journal or a book chapter or develop education materials (such as a CD or web-based materials. Articles that are not yet published may not be used.) If you double this category, then you must have published two different articles in peer reviewed journals or developed two different education materials.

Research: Serve as the primary investigator in an IRB-approved research project related to your certification specialty and completed during your five year certification period, or complete a master's thesis or doctoral dissertation in your certification specialty. You can double this category by competing two IRB-approved research projects as the principal investigator. You can also double this category by completing one publication and one research project.

Nursing Professional Development may not double Category 4.

Fulfillment of this category requires one published article or book chapter, or one research project, or one "other educational media" project, or completion of a doctoral dissertation or master's thesis in the specialty area, subject to the conditions below:

• The phrase "other educational media" refers to the development of educational materials such as a CD ROM, videotape, or other media presentation. Evidence may include topical brochure, handouts, etc.
• The article must be published in a referred journal. Evidence of peer review and proof of publication must accompany the candidate's application. Evidence may also be in the form of a table of contents, or first page of an article with researcher's name apparent. A copy of article or chapter must be submitted if audited.
• The research project must be completed during the five-year certification period. In addition, the candidate must be one of the primary recognized researchers, the research must be approved by an appropriate investigational review board, and it must be applicable to the candidate's area of certification.
• Completion of a doctoral dissertation or master's thesis within the specialty area may be used. However, academic hours awarded for the dissertation or thesis that are used in Category 4 may not be used in Category 2.
• Category 4 always requires evidence of publication, research project, etc. Materials submitted must show dates.