Passing the CCRN

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So, I reluctantly took my CCRN exam yesterday thinking it was going to be a monstrous headache. I only have 1 year ICU experience and 3 years med/surg. To my surprise, however, I passed with 90.4% correct! I want to write a quick review of what I thought and give some pointers for those that may be taking it.

To start if you have taken different practice exams you will find that the ACTUAL exam is EASIER. Yes that's right. Easier. However, I am only speaking from practice with Barron's CCRN (the best!) and Pass CCRN questions (not so great). Now I'll give my 2 cents worth on prepping/taking exam.

1. Best advice I can give is use Barron's CCRN prep book Barron's CCRN Exam: 9781438

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.

Thanks for sharing your tips. :)

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Wow, congratulations.

I recently got hired in a hospital in its progressive unit. Step down to icu.

Can I take the ccrn after a year with experience in this unit.

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Jnandawa - I have worked for just over a year and a half in a Medical ICU and during my performance review a couple of weeks ago, I was informed that I could take the CCRN exam. That it is based on the number of hours worked so it was explained to me that working full-time for a year will qualify me to take it, Just check with a supervisor to find out for sure and you should be golden!

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Specializes in CCRN.
Wow, congratulations.

I recently got hired in a hospital in its progressive unit. Step down to icu.

Can I take the ccrn after a year with experience in this unit.

Unfortunately, you cannot. You can sit for the PCCN though.

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Oh...Yes you can. I took it in January with exactly 1 year of PCU. It's ACUTE/CRITICAL care experience needed. You may need to study harder though for hemodynamics. Absolutely doable....I did it.

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Specializes in ED, ICU, PSYCH, PP, CEN.

Congratulations on passing and thanks for sharing. I've worked in ICU for 4 years and want to take it but was afraid because so many people say it's horribly hard.

You have given me the courage to do it.

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Specializes in Cardiovascular recovery unit/ICU.

This is such great information! Congrats on passing the exam!!! I have heard that Barron's is the best. Going to purchase it for sure. I just started back in the cardiovascular recovery unit after being off a long time. I started with the AACN Essentils of Critical Care Nursing and it's been a valuable resource. Almost finished with it and ready to start my journey to CCRN. Thanks for sharing!

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I *LOVE* the Barron's book! I agree--I think it's the best. So easy and straightforward, and very close to the actual exam.

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