Does new CFRN exam require new study resources?

Specialties Flight

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As of July 6, 2016, the CFRN has an updated exam (the content outline posted on the BCEN website). With this in mind, some of solid study materials I have seen mentioned for preparing for the exam are dated to 2009, 2011, ect. Granted many things in patient assessment and care remain universal, but with evolution in technology/best practice and updates to algorithms, should I be guarded in which study resources I use? If so, which are the best? I plan on testing at the end of this year and want to be ready - any insight would be greatly appreciated.

Since no one has replied I will. I have recently taken the CFRN and passed. I also hold the FP-C. I used the Anthony Baca videos and the flightbridgeed.com study/practice questions. I believe the 4th edition of the ASTNA is the latest in print with the 5th not due out until next year. The test still uses the 4th edition. I would also download the latest CAMTS recommendations as you are bound to get 4 or 5 questions from them. I would also get the latest Emergency Airway Management by Walls. They use those algorithms. I did not receive any basic ACLS type questions or current practice guidelines on stroke care. Hope this helps and good luck.

Specializes in ICU, Trauma, CCT,Emergency, Flight, OR Nursing.

The best way to prepare for any of these Board Certification Exams, is to read widely (Air Medical Journal), Flight and CCT nursing textbooks, Critical Care Text books, attend conferences (CCTMC, AMTC) and listen to podcasts (EMCRIT, EMRAP, EDECMO, Life in the Fast Lane etc). Also be very careful about your choice of review courses if you intend to take one. There are some out there that advertise to prepare on for the CTRN and CFRN and yet the authors/ presenters of the courses are NOT RN's and do not have those credentials. CFRN / CTRN exams are not equivalent to the FP-C or CCP-C. Just be aware of this. Board exams for a professional specialty rely heavily on actual clinical experience in the specialty and the ability to apply didactic knowledge and clinical experience to various clinical scenarios. Best of luck when you take your exam.

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