AACN members are entitled to unlimited free CE credits as a benefit of membership. AACN is the only professional association to support continuing education for its members at this level. All CE articles in AACN print journals as well as the more than 300 CE offerings in the AACN Online CE Center are eligible under this membership enrichment program.
The AACN Certification Corporation, a separately incorporated company, develops and administers the 150-question CCRN, 175-question CCNS and 125-question PCCN exams and the 90-question CMC and CSC subspecialty exams. These exams have been demonstrated to be legally defensible and psychometrically sound indicators of mastery of the knowledge, skills and abilities to practice effectively as a bedside critical care nurse, progressive care nurse, clinical nurse specialist in acute or critical care or a cardiac subspecialty nurse. The exams are administered via computer-based testing at locations nationwide. A paper-and-pencil examination is also available during the annual National Teaching Institute (NTI).
The exams are open to nurses who meet the eligibility requirements, which include a specified period of clinical practice in the role being tested. The clinical nurse specialist candidate also must possess a master's degree in nursing from an accredited program, with evidence of CNS theory and clinical concentration in the care of acutely/critically ill patients.
The CCRN and CCNS exams are offered in three age-related categories - adult, pediatric and neonatal critical care nursing. CMC (cardiac medicine certification) is a subspecialty designed for nurses who provide care for acutely/critically ill cardiac patients. CSC (cardiac surgery certification) is a subspecialty for nurses who provide care for acutely/critically ill cardiac surgery patients within the first 48 hours post-op. The PCCN exam is for nurses practicing in acute care environments, including intermediate care units, direct observation units, stepdown units, telemetry units, transitional care units and emergency departments. The ACNPC is the newest credential and will be awarded to acute care nurse practitioners. Although yet to be launched, the exam will be targeted at entry-level acute care nurse practitioner competencies.
Extend your participation in AACN by joining your local chapter. Take advantage of education, career development and networking opportunities right in your own back yard. Chapter membership provides opportunities for involvement in local decision making and enhancement of leadership skills. Enjoy the fun of personal friendships and benefit from professional and social networking opportunities on a local/regional level.
For more information call 800-899-AACN (2226) or visit the Chapters page.
Members receive discounts on a wealth of educational products covering several areas, including clinical practice and research, leadership and professional development, certifications, ethics and continuing education. Many items include self-learning CE opportunities. Select items from our extensive product catalog including books, audiotapes, videotapes, posters, computer-assisted instruction and commemorative items. Save on your purchase of definitive reference works, such as the AACN Core Curriculum for Critical Care Nursing, AACN Procedure Manual for Critical Care, and AACN Procedure Manual for Pediatric Acute and Critical Care. Save also on subscriptions to AACN Advanced Critical Care, a quarterly journal covering he full range of critical care challenges
AACN Online is a comprehensive critical care nursing Web site designed to provide users with the latest resources in clinical practice, continuing education and professional development. As a member, you receive free access, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to the entire site, including the members-only section. Simply follow the instructions and have your AACN member number available for member-only access. With AACN Online, you can discuss issues and share information with other healthcare professionals, obtain clinical practice information and resources and participate in interactive learning discussions, all without leaving your computer! You will also have exclusive access to CINAHL Plus and the GenRx Medication Database.
Be sure to browse this site often for regular updates and new and innovative services. Be sure to bookmark us in your favorite online sites!
AACN members and chapters who have made a difference in healthcare and their communities are chosen each year to receive AACN Circle of Excellence recognition awards, sponsored by AACN and our Partners with Industry corporations. This award program recognizes contributions and achievements that exemplify AACN's mission and vision and applauds excellence. Deadlines vary for the individual AACN scholarships, awards, grants and chapter awards.
For the complete AACN Awards Guide, Guide to Research Grants or Scholarship Application Booklet with nomination forms, visit the Awards, Scholarships & Grants area of the AACN Web site.
AACN is designated by the United States Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)3, nonprofit charitable organization. This means that gifts to the association from individuals, chapters, corporations and other organizations are tax exempt to the extent provided by law. These gifts support important AACN programs including scholarships, research grants, recognition awards and other critical care projects that help you and other members.
To find out how you can support the AACN programs that most interest you and gain a possible tax exemption, call 800-394-5995, ext. 333; e-mail us at development@aacn.org.
