The CCRN exam from the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) certifies RNs and APRNs who care for acutely or critically ill patients. Exams are offered for adult, pediatric and neonatal populations. Most nurses take it after gaining ICU experience following the NCLEX.
Practice hemodynamics, cardiac, respiratory and neuro questions on our free CCRN practice test.
Key takeaways
- 150 questions (125 scored) in 3 hours.
- The Adult CCRN has required about 83 of 125 scored questions to pass.
- Fees: $260 for AACN members, $375 for non-members.
- Eligibility: 1,750 direct-care hours in 2 years (or 2,000 hours in 5 years).
USA CCRN Exam: Quick Facts
- Offered by
- AACN Certification Corporation
- Questions
- 150 (125 scored)
- Time
- 3 hours
- Fee
- $260 member / $375 non-member
- Populations
- Adult, Pediatric, Neonatal
CCRN Exam Blueprint (Adult)
| Area | Approx. share |
|---|---|
| Clinical judgment (cardiovascular, pulmonary, neuro, renal, endocrine, GI, hematology, multisystem, behavioral) | 80% |
| Professional caring and ethical practice (advocacy, collaboration, systems thinking, etc.) | 20% |
Cardiovascular and pulmonary are the largest clinical areas, so master hemodynamics, ABGs, ventilator management and ACS care.
More on CCRN Exam Blueprint (Adult) →CCRN Eligibility
- A current, unencumbered U.S. RN or APRN license.
- 2-year option: 1,750 hours of direct care of acutely or critically ill patients in the past 2 years, with 875 in the most recent year.
- 5-year option: 2,000 hours in the past 5 years, with 144 in the most recent year.
Free practice test
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Go to the USA CCRN Exam practice test →USA CCRN Exam FAQs
How many questions are on the CCRN exam?
150 multiple-choice questions, 125 scored, with 3 hours to complete.
Full answer →What is the CCRN passing score?
AACN publishes cut scores by exam. The Adult CCRN has required about 83 of 125 scored questions (roughly 66%).
Full answer →How long is CCRN certification valid?
3 years. You renew with practice hours plus CERPs or by retesting.
Full answer →Official sources
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