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CCRN (Adult) & PCCN Certification Guide

Updated On 4 Minute Read

Overview of the CCRN & PCCN Certification 

Achieving a CCRN (Adult) or PCCN certification through the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) is a meaningful step for nurses committed to advancing their clinical expertise and career. These credentials signal a high level of competence in caring for adult patients in acute and progressive care settings and are widely respected by healthcare employers. 

 

What are CCRN and PCCN certifications? 

The CCRN (Adult) certification is designed for nurses who provide direct care to critically ill adult patients, typically in intensive care units, cardiac care units, or trauma centers. 

Meanwhile, the PCCN (Progressive Care Certified Nurse) certification targets nurses who care for acutely ill adults in intermediate or step-down care units, such as telemetry or transitional care units. Both certifications affirm a nurse's advanced clinical judgment and dedication to high standards of practice. 

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CCRN Prep Course

Eligibility requirements 

To qualify for either certification, candidates must hold a current, unencumbered RN or APRN license in the United States. Clinical practice hour requirements are flexible, offering two options: 

CCRN® (Adult): 

  • 2-Year Option: 1,750 hours in direct care of acutely/critically ill adult patients in the past 2 years (with 875 hours in the most recent year) 
  • 5-Year Option: 2,000 hours over the past 5 years (with 144 hours in the most recent year) 

PCCN®: 

  • 2-Year Option: 1,750 hours in direct care of acutely ill adult patients in a progressive care setting (with 875 hours in the most recent year) 
  • 5-Year Option: 2,000 hours over the past 5 years (with 144 hours in the most recent year) 

Exam details 

Both exams are computer-based and available year-round at testing centers or via remote proctoring. The CCRN® (Adult) exam consists of 150 multiple-choice items (125 scored, 25 unscored) to be completed within 3 hours, while the PCCN® exam includes 125 items (100 scored, 25 unscored) over 2.5 hours. Each exam focuses primarily on Clinical Judgment (80%) and Professional Caring & Ethical Practice (20%). 

Application process 

To apply, candidates must first create an AACN account online, then complete and submit their application with documentation verifying clinical hours. Once approved, applicants may schedule their exam. Fees vary depending on AACN membership status. 

Renewal requirements 

Certifications are valid for 3 years. Renewal can be achieved through one of two pathways: either by completing the required number of Continuing Education Recognition Points (CERPs) across defined categories or by retaking the exam. AACN’s flexible CERP program allows nurses to align renewal with their professional development goals and continuing education activities. 

Preparation strategies 

Preparation is key to passing either exam. Candidates are encouraged to review AACN’s exam handbooks, use practice questions to simulate the test environment, and engage in structured review courses. One highly recommended resource is the CCRN & PCCN Certification Review Course (Self-Paced) – Nurse.com. This course features expert-led video lectures, case-based learning, and interactive assessments tailored to both CCRN and PCCN candidates. 

Why get certified? 

  • Professional Recognition: Stand out with credentials that are highly valued by employers and peers. 
  • Improved Patient Outcomes: Certified nurses contribute to safer, more effective care. 
  • Career Advancement: Increase opportunities for promotions and pay raises. 
  • Personal Fulfillment: Build confidence and credibility in your nursing specialty. 

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Our free continuing education courses are offered across a wide variety of clinical and professional development topics and is designed to help nurses meet state CE contact hour requirements. 

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CCRN (Adult) Exam Study Guide 

Exam structure overview 

  • Total Questions: 150 (125 scored, 25 unscored)
  • Time Limit: 3 hours
  • Question Types: Multiple-choice
  • Domains Covered:
  • Clinical Judgment – 80%
  • Professional Caring & Ethical Practice – 20% 

Content breakdown 

Clinical judgment (80%) 

Covers body systems and clinical conditions: 

  • Cardiovascular (17%)
  • Pulmonary (15%)
  • Endocrine, Hematology, GI, Renal, Integumentary (20%)
  • Musculoskeletal/Neurological/Psychosocial (14%)
  • Multisystem Disorders (14%) 

Focus on: 

  • Hemodynamic monitoring
  • Mechanical ventilation
  • Shock types and treatment
  • Acute coronary syndrome and heart failure
  • Renal and hepatic failure
  • Electrolyte and acid-base imbalances 

Professional caring & ethical practice (20%) 

Includes: 

  • Advocacy and moral agency
  • Caring practices and collaboration
  • Response to diversity
  • Clinical inquiry
  • Systems thinking 

 

Study Strategies 

  1. Review the Exam Handbook 
     Download from the AACN website to understand format and test content.
  2. Use a Structured Review Course 
     ✅ Highly Recommended: Nurse.com CCRN Review Course
  3. Practice Questions Daily 
     Focus on clinical scenario-based questions. Time yourself to simulate exam conditions.
  4. Create a Study Calendar 
     Break content into weekly sections (e.g., cardiovascular in week 1, pulmonary in week 2, etc.).
  5. Join Study Groups or Forums 
     Peer discussion can reinforce learning and offer clarification on complex topics.
  6. Use Flashcards for Memorization 
     Focus on lab values, drug classes, hemodynamics, and ventilator settings. 

 

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