Overview

1. Test Taking Tips for CCRN
   1. Exam Requirements
      1. RN license
      2. 1750 hours critical care experience in past two years
      3. 875 hours this year
   2.  Purpose of test
      1. Show your knowledge
      2. Show your commitment and pride
      3. Career advancement
   3. Additional material on the test
      1. Ethics and caring
      2. Patient advocate
      3. Teamwork and collaboration
      4. Diversity
      5. Caring practice
   4. Test created around Synergy Model ->Holistic thinking instead of medical model
   5. How do I take the test?
      1. Apply at AACN website online
      2. Await for response in the mail
      3. Call to schedule test day and time within 90 days
   6.  AACN tips
      1. Relax
      2. Fully read instructions
      3. Carefully read questions
      4. Choose best answer (most comprehensive)
      5. Never assume anything that isn’t provided in the question
   7.  Answer to avoid…
      1. Death
      2. Disability
      3. Pain
      4. Never leave a blank
   8.   Laura’s tips for the day of the test
      1.  Wear bright colors
         1. Increasing synaptic response in memory, thus improving your ability to recall information and think clearly.
      2. Eat salt, avoid carbs
         1. Salt increases mental alertness (carbs make you groggy)
      3. Have bad attitude
         1. Having a “bad attitude” (or being irritable) allows you to recall retained information faster
      4. Practice questions
         1. Plan to study for two months prior
         2. Content
         3. Question and answers along with rationales
            1. 150 practice questions every night for 5 days prior to test
            2. You won’t know all the answers