The British Heart Rhythm Society (BHRS)
British Heart Rhythm Society (formerly known as Heart Rhythm UK) is dedicated to improving all aspects of arrhythmia care and electrical device based therapies along with acting as a unifying focus for those professionals involved.
The examination was first introduced in 1999 as part of the BPEG Certificate of Competency. In 2006 the examination became the Heart Rhythm UK Certificate of Accreditation and structure of the examination was revised, with the introduction of core and specialist sections. It is a requirement that you must be a BHRS member to take the examination. In 2011, the examination paper was marked electronically for the first time. Since then, the questions and candidates’ responses have been evaluated in detail so that we can continue to improve the quality, relevance and validity of the questions.
In 2013, the number of questions was increased to 120 (60 core and 60 specialty), in part, to bring the examination into line with the EHRA examination. As a consequence, the duration of the examination was increased to 4 hours. Also in 2013, we introduced a third “clinical” specialist section. This section is aimed at nurses with a special interest in CRM and is complimented by a new “logbook equivalent” of case discussions. It was not felt appropriate that nurses with a special interest in CRM complete a logbook, instead there is a requirement to complete a number of case studies.
The exam moving forwards will consist of 120 questions (no separate core and specialist papers) with the syllabus essentially unchanged (no DVLA questions) with the emphasis on specialist questions (i.e. EGMs). This examination will be 4 hours long with a 10 minute pause the clock accommodation to be taken throughout the exam.
Exam & Scheduling Information
Slots on the examination date can be booked between 8am to midday. The examination will be held via Pearson Vue centres. This means you can choose a Pearson Vue training centre local to you to avoid unnecessary travel.
Candidates should arrive at the test centre at 7.45am if the exam is at 8am or half an hour before if it is at a later time. This will give you adequate time to complete the necessary sign-in procedures. If you arrive more than 15 minutes late for your appointment, you may be refused admission and the exam fees will be forfeited.
You will be required to present one form of original (no photocopies), valid (unexpired) government issued ID, which includes your name, photograph, and signature. The first and last name that you used to register must match exactly the first and last name on the ID that is presented on test day. All IDs required must be issued by the country in which you are testing. If you do not have the qualifying ID issued from the country you are testing in, an International Travel Passport from your country of citizenship is required. If you have any questions or concerns about the ID you are required to bring with you to the testing centre for admittance for your exam please contact Pearson VUE customer Service. To view the full ID policy, including any additional allowances to this policy, please view Pearson VUE's ID Policy.
No personal items may be taken into the testing room. This includes all bags, books not authorised by the sponsor, notes, phones, pagers, watches and wallets. Under some circumstances (e.g. those with medical conditions) will also have the option to take the examination virtually. Relevant documentation will be required during BHRS registration.
Candidates must register for the BHRS examination through the BHRS website, paying the appropriate fee, before booking a test centre with Pearson VUE.
Scheduling your test centre
Having registered with BHRS online via the BHRS website, you will later receive an email confirming your application. This will explain the next stage in the process, to book a specific test centre with Pearson VUE, which can be done online or over the telephone.
Cancelling your test
You must contact both BHRS and Pearson VUE. You will need to access your online Pearson VUE account to cancel your exam at least a minimum of 7 days prior to your appointment. Exams cannot be cancelled less than 7 days prior to your appointment. Failure to cancel in time or failure to appear for your appointment will result in the forfeiture of your full exam fee. Any cancellations up to and prior to the 7 days will be refunded minus a £50 admin fee. There is an option to defer your examination free of charge up to 7 days prior to your exam.
Food, Drink & Comfort Aids
Food and drink aren’t permitted for either delivery (OnVUE virtual exams and test centres) unless it is an item covered on the published comfort aid list. A clear bottle of water can be left with the invigilator and can be accessed during scheduled break. A clear glass of water is permitted for OnVUE delivery; it must be shown to the Greeter during the admittance process.
Candidates must provide their own comfort aids except for the following items, which must be provided by the test centre:
- Earplugs
- Noise-cancelling headphones
- Tissues/Kleenex
Exam Aids
Calipers are now allowed to be brought into the test centre and to be used virtually. You must provide your own. Test centre candidates will also be provided with a whiteboard and marker pen.