What is the CCRN certification?
The CCRN (Critical Care Registered Nurse) certification is a credential that validates a nurse's specialized knowledge, skills, and expertise in providing critical care to patients with acute, life-threatening illnesses or injuries.
How do I become eligible to take the CCRN exam?
To be eligible for the CCRN exam, you must hold a current and unrestricted RN license in the United States and have a minimum of 1,750 hours of direct bedside care in critical care within the past two years.
What is the format of the CCRN exam?
The CCRN exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within three hours. The exam covers four content areas: clinical judgment (80%), professional caring and ethical practice (10%), collaboration (7%), and systems thinking (3%).
What is the passing score for the CCRN exam?
The passing score for the CCRN exam is 70%. The score is based on the number of questions answered correctly and does not take into account the difficulty of the questions.
How much does it cost to take the CCRN exam?
The cost to take the CCRN exam varies based on your membership status with the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN). For AACN members, the cost is $235, and for non-members, it is $340.
How long is the CCRN certification valid?
The CCRN certification is valid for three years. After three years, you will need to recertify by meeting the renewal requirements.
What are the renewal requirements for the CCRN certification?
To renew the CCRN certification, you must meet the practice hour requirement and complete a specified number of continuing education hours in critical care nursing.
How can I prepare for the CCRN exam?
To prepare for the CCRN exam, you can review the exam content outline provided by the AACN, take practice exams, attend review courses, and use study materials such as textbooks and online resources.
What are the benefits of becoming CCRN certified?
The benefits of becoming CCRN certified include professional recognition, increased job opportunities, higher earning potential, and the ability to provide high-quality patient care in critical care settings.
How do I apply for the CCRN exam?
You can apply for the CCRN exam online through the AACN website. You will need to create an account, complete the application, and pay the exam fee. Once your application is approved, you will receive an authorization to test and can schedule your exam.
What is the difference between CCRN and other critical care certifications?
The CCRN certification is one of several critical care certifications available to nurses. However, it is the only certification that focuses exclusively on adult patients in critical care settings. Other critical care certifications include the Pediatric CCRN for nurses who care for critically ill pediatric patients, the Neonatal CCRN for nurses who care for critically ill neonatal patients, and the Acute/Critical Care Nursing Certification for nurses who provide care to both adult and pediatric patients in acute and critical care settings.
What happens if I don't pass the CCRN exam?
If you do not pass the CCRN exam, you can retake the exam after a 90-day waiting period. You will need to submit a new application and pay the exam fee again. The AACN also offers a CCRN review course that can help you prepare for the exam.
How can CCRN certification benefit patient care?
CCRN-certified nurses have specialized knowledge and skills in providing care to critically ill patients. This expertise allows them to provide high-quality, evidence-based care that can improve patient outcomes, reduce the risk of complications, and increase patient satisfaction. CCRN-certified nurses can also help to improve the overall quality of care in critical care settings by serving as leaders and mentors to other nurses and promoting best practices in patient care.
Can I maintain CCRN certification if I work outside of critical care?
If you are no longer working in a critical care setting, you can maintain your CCRN certification by completing a minimum of 875 hours of direct or indirect care in critical care nursing and completing the specified number of continuing education hours in critical care nursing. However, if you do not meet these requirements, you will need to let your certification lapse and reapply to take the exam in the future.
Is the CCRN exam available in languages other than English?
The CCRN exam is only available in English. However, the AACN does offer some study materials in Spanish, including a Spanish-language version of the CCRN Exam Handbook.
How long does it take to receive my CCRN exam results?
You will receive your CCRN exam results immediately after completing the exam at the testing center. The testing center will provide you with a printed copy of your score report, which will indicate whether you passed or failed the exam.
How long does it take to receive my CCRN certification once I pass the exam?
Once you pass the CCRN exam, your certification will be posted on the AACN website within two to four weeks. You will also receive a certificate in the mail. If you need your certification sooner, you can request an expedited certificate for an additional fee.
Can I renew my CCRN certification if I live outside of the United States?
Yes, you can renew your CCRN certification if you live outside of the United States as long as you meet the renewal requirements. However, you may need to complete your continuing education requirements through an accredited provider that is recognized by the AACN.
Can I take the CCRN exam if I am not a registered nurse?
No, you must hold a current and unrestricted RN license in the United States to be eligible to take the CCRN exam.
How often can I take the CCRN exam?
You can take the CCRN exam as many times as you need to pass it. However, you must wait at least 90 days between exam attempts, and you will need to submit a new application and pay the exam fee each time you take the exam.
In conclusion, obtaining the CCRN certification can be a rewarding accomplishment for nurses who specialize in critical care. It validates your specialized knowledge and skills in providing high-quality care to critically ill patients and can lead to increased job opportunities and earning potential. Preparation for the exam should involve reviewing the exam content outline, taking practice exams, attending review courses, and using study materials.