Voluntarily testing themselves against a national standard, certified nurses are role models of professional accountability. They distinguish themselves through a commitment to lifelong learning and career advancement.
Backed by growing evidence linking certified nursing practice and positive outcomes, certification shows employers and patients that you have met rigorous national requirements in your area of practice. It is among the key excellence indicators for programs such as Magnet and Beacon.
This exam is for nurses who care directly for acutely or critically ill patients at the bedside. CCRNs can be found in areas such as the ICU, CCU, Emergency Department, Trauma Unit, Interventional Radiology/Cardiology and Critical Care Transport/Flight services.
This exam is for nurses who care directly for acutely ill patients at the bedside in settings such as Intermediate Care Units, Direct Observation Units, Step-down Units, Telemetry Units and Transitional Care Units.
The CMC (cardiac medicine certification) and the CSC (cardiac surgery certification) exams are for nurses who already hold a specialty certification and want to document their expanded cardiac knowledge.
The CCNS exam is for those who have completed a recognized graduate educational program as a clinical nurse specialist in acute or critical care. In some states, this credential may help qualify you for advanced practice nursing licensure.
This exam is for acute care nurse practitioners who have completed a relevant graduate program accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission or Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
