Essential Requirements:
* Current Registered Nurse (RN) License: You must possess a current, unencumbered RN license in the United States or another country where the AACN recognizes licensure.
* Critical Care Experience: This is the most significant hurdle. The amount of required experience varies depending on the candidate's educational background:
* Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): Requires a minimum of 1,750 hours of critical care nursing experience within the past two years.
* Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Requires a minimum of 1,000 hours of critical care nursing experience within the past two years.
* Master's Degree in Nursing (MSN): Requirements may vary, it is best to check with AACN.
* Critical Care Nursing Definition: The AACN defines critical care nursing experience very specifically. It's not simply working in an ICU; it requires direct patient care in a designated critical care setting such as a medical ICU, surgical ICU, cardiac ICU, neuro ICU, or other AACN-recognized settings. The experience must include direct patient care, not just administrative or managerial tasks.
* Successful Completion of the CCRN Exam: After meeting the experience requirements, you must pass a comprehensive exam covering the core areas of critical care nursing.
Additional Considerations:
* Continuing Education: While not a requirement for initial certification, maintaining certification requires ongoing continuing education.
* Application Process: The AACN has a detailed application process that must be completed, including verifying your education and experience.
* Recertification: CCRN certification needs to be renewed periodically. The renewal process includes continuing education requirements and possibly re-examination depending on the chosen renewal pathway.
In summary: To become a CCRN, you need a current RN license, significant critical care experience (amount depending on your education level), and a successful pass on the CCRN exam. It's crucial to consult the AACN website for the most up-to-date and precise requirements before beginning the certification process, as they can change.