The CCRN certification, or Critical Care Registered Nurse certification, is a professional credential that recognizes the specialized knowledge and expertise of registered nurses (RNs) who work in critical care settings. The certification is offered by the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) and is designed to validate the skills and knowledge necessary to provide high-quality care to critically ill patients.

To be eligible for the CCRN certification, nurses must have a current and unrestricted RN license in the United States or its territories, as well as meet one of the following criteria:

• Have at least 1,750 hours of direct bedside care in a critical care setting within the last two years
• Have at least 2,000 hours of direct bedside care in a critical care setting within the last five years
• Have at least 1,000 hours of direct bedside care in a critical care setting within the last five years, along with at least 25 continuing education hours in critical care nursing

The CCRN exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and covers a variety of topics related to critical care nursing, including cardiovascular, pulmonary, neurologic, and renal systems, as well as professional caring and ethical practice. The exam is administered at testing centers across the United States and its territories.

Upon passing the CCRN exam, nurses are awarded the CCRN credential, which is valid for three years. To maintain the credential, nurses must either retake and pass the CCRN exam or earn a specified number of continuing education hours in critical care nursing.

Obtaining the CCRN certification can demonstrate a nurse’s dedication and competence in the critical care field, and can also potentially lead to career advancement opportunities or increased salary. Additionally, the CCRN certification can benefit patients by ensuring that they receive care from highly qualified and knowledgeable nurses in critical care settings.

In addition to the CCRN certification, the AACN also offers other certifications for nurses working in critical care settings, including the Pediatric CCRN, Neonatal CCRN, and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP) certification.