CCNS Certification: Overview and FAQ
The Critical Care Clinical Nurse Specialist (CCNS) certification is a specialized credential that recognizes the advanced expertise of clinical nurse specialists (CNSs) working in critical care settings, such as emergency rooms and trauma centers. With this certification, you’re an expert in your field, equipped with advanced knowledge and skills to manage complex patient cases, improve care outcomes, and serve as a trusted resource for your healthcare team.
This certification is currently available for renewal only, and this article will walk you through the steps to keep your credential up to date.
What Is CCNS Certification?
CCNS nursing certification is a specialized credential designed for CNSs who work with critically ill adult, pediatric, or neonatal patients. It’s issued by the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN), an organization dedicated to improving patient outcomes and fostering the continued growth and expertise of critical care nurses.
Wondering what to study for your CCNS renewal? The test focuses on two main knowledge domains, each covering a range of specialty-related topics:
- Clinical judgement, which includes managing conditions like cardiovascular, pulmonary, and endocrine disorders, and understanding factors affecting health status
- Professional caring and ethical practice, which covers topics of caring practices, collaboration, and advocacy
You’ll also be assessed on specific skills and procedures related to body systems, including:
- Cardiovascular: Adjusting implantable cardioverter defibrillators and interpreting 12-lead ECGs.
- Endocrine: Managing patients with corticosteroid tapering and insulin pumps.
- Pulmonary: Initiating mechanical ventilation and removing chest tubes.
- Hematology, immunology, and oncology: Managing patients with cancer treatment symptoms and immunosuppression therapy.
- Gastrointestinal: Caring for patients with drainage catheters and nasogastric tubes.
- Integumentary: Managing patients with pressure ulcers and providing wound care.
- Neurology: Providing care for patients receiving neuromuscular blockade and targeted temperature management.
- Behavioral: De-escalation techniques (crisis prevention) and managing assaultive behavior.
- Multisystem: Implementing measures to prevent hospital-acquired infections and providing nonpharmacological interventions for pain.
Where Can You Work With CCNS Certification?
CNSs bring advanced clinical expertise and leadership skills to improve patient care and healthcare systems. Their roles often extend beyond bedside care to mentorship, quality improvement, and policy development. With CCNS nursing certification, you can work in diverse critical care settings, such as the following:
- Intensive care units (ICUs)
- Trauma centers
- Emergency departments
- Neonatal intensive care units (NICUs)
- Pediatric intensive care units (PICUs)
- Specialized ICUs, such as CVICUs and STICUs
Additionally, many CCNSs work in teaching hospitals or academic settings, educating future nurses or taking on leadership roles within critical care departments.
How to Renew CCNS Certification
You’ll need to renew your certification every five years to keep it active. Here’s a simple guide to help you through the process:
1. Meet Eligibility Criteria
Your first step is to ensure you meet the eligibility requirements. Since this certification isn’t offered for new applicants anymore, only current CCNS-certified nurses can renew it. You’ll also need to have an active and unencumbered RN or APRN license. This means your nursing license must be valid, in good standing, and free of any disciplinary actions.
2. Choose a Renewal Route
When it’s time to renew your credential, you’ll have three options to choose from. Each has different requirements.
| Practice hours and continuing education points | Practice hours and exam | Continuing education points and exam |
|---|---|---|
| Acquire 1,000 hours of CNS experience in acute or critical care within the past 5 years.
Earn 150 continuing education points, including a minimum of 75 in acute/critical care education programs, with at least 25 points in pharmacology. |
Acquire 1,000 hours of CNS experience in acute or critical care within the past 5 years.
Complete 25 continuing education points in pharmacology. Apply for, take, and pass the renewal exam. |
Earn 150 continuing education points, including a minimum of 75 points in acute/critical care education programs, with at least 25 points in pharmacology.
Apply for, take, and pass the renewal exam. |
3. Submit Your Application
Next, submit an online renewal application. Be sure to include all the required details like your license information, proof of work experience, and completion of continuing education hours. If you’re renewing by taking a test, you’ll receive instructions from AACN on how to schedule your exam appointment.
4. Pay the Renewal Fee
Curious about the CCNS certification cost? AACN offers clear fee structures to help you budget for your renewal. Keep in mind that if you’re a member of AACN, you’ll receive a discount.
- Renewal by practice hours and continuing education points: $340
- Renewal by practice hours and exam: $315
- Renewal by continuing education points and exam: $315
Frequently Asked Questions: CCNS Certification for Nurses
Is the CCNS credential still available for new applicants?
No, this certification is no longer available for initial certification. It is currently available only for nurses who already hold the credential and wish to renew it.
What are similar certifications for CNSs?
While the CCNS is only available for renewal, these alternative certifications offer advanced credentials that align with similar roles, skills, and specialties. Here are some options:
- Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist – Board Certified (ACNS-BC)
- Acute Clinical Care Nurse Specialist – Adult-Gerontology (ACCNS-AG)
- Acute Clinical Care Nurse Specialist – Pediatric (ACCNS-P)
- Acute Clinical Care Nurse Specialist – Neonatal (ACCNS-N)
- Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (AGCNS)
What resources are available for CCNS renewal preparation?
The AACN provides helpful resources to set you up for success, including the following:
- CCNS renewal handbook with content outline
- CCNS renewal policy guide
There are additional resources available online. However, make sure to verify their credibility, especially if they’re not AACN-approved.
What is the typical CCNS salary?
CNSs are among the best-paid professionals in nursing. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that advanced practice nurses (APRNs), including CNSs, earn a median of about $129,480 a year. Your earnings, however, may vary depending on factors like experience, education, and the type of facility you work at.
The job outlook also looks promising. Advanced practice nurses are in high demand, with employment expected to rise 40% in the coming decade — much faster than average for all occupations.
How do I verify my CCNS certification?
You or your employer can easily verify your CCNS certification online. AACN provides a free verification service — just enter your ID number and name, click “Search,” and your details will appear.
Related Certifications
Looking to broaden your expertise? Check out these certifications that can enhance your skills and career:
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner – Board Certified (AGACNP-BC)
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist – Board Certified (PMHCNS-BC)
- Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner (CRNP)
- Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN)
- Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN)
- Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse (CMSRN)
- Progressive Care Certified Nurse (PCCN)
Looking for Nursing Jobs You’ll Love?
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