[MommyandRN]

Hi, I am thinking about joining AACN. What are the benefits of joining vs. not joining? I might take the CCRN next year. I know I would get journal subscriptions but what else? Thanks.

[TX_ICU_RN]

I just joined a couple of days ago...and I don't even start my job in the ICU until the end of March. When I first graduated from nursing school 11 years ago, I really did not see the need to join any nursing organizations. Now that I have more experience in various fields of nursing (acute care, PNP, Nursing Instructor), I see the value of joining an organization like AACN. Here are the reasons I joined:
1) Journals - These are invaluable and quite often you will receive other journals and mailings from other companies/organizations. This is one mailing list that I actually WANT to be on.
2) Professional - Nursing organizations work to advance nursing as a profession. I know with three kids and a new job that my plate will be full and I will not have any time to contribute to this outside of work. By joining AACN, I am not only giving them money to help advance our profession, but I am increasing their membership and visibility as well.
3) Networking - Joining both Nationally and at the State and/or Local levels gives you a great network to pull from. You do not have to go to every function or become a leader to get this networking benefit. Sometimes, the networking occurs because your name is on the roster.

[VivaRN]

If you choose to attend the annual conference you get the member rate. In addition to the journal there is also a newsletter and a clinical update e-mail. AACN also has scholarships if you choose to pursue further education...

A good deal if you ask me!

[gcj95]

AACN journel articles are excellent. All of the continuing education hours offered on their web site, (and there are tons), are free to members. If you are lucky enough to go to their annual national conference NTI, you will know you are part af an awesome group of professionals. Yes it is worth joining, but be sure to take advantage of all they have to offer !

[MommyandRN]

Cool, I think I will join. I never joined in my years of full time critical care in the past, but am getting back in the swing of things and want to take the CCRN next year, so I am going full force!

[RNFELICITY]

Originally Posted by VivaRN

AACN also has scholarships if you choose to pursue further education...

A good deal if you ask me!

Wow, I must have missed that link on the website. Thanks! I have been a member for a few years and I think that 78 bucks is a fabulous steal!

[foxyhill21]

I am thinking about joining too... I just need to find a local chapter