Newswise — AACN Certification Corporation launches the initial certification exam for nurses who work in tele-ICUs, also known as remote or virtual intensive care units. Successful exam completion results in the CCRN-E credential.
CCRN-E, an extension of the CCRN certification program for acute and critical care, represents the first credential designed for tele-ICU nurses. Eligibility for the exam requires nursing experience in a tele-ICU or a combination of direct bedside and tele-ICU practice hours.
Tele-ICU nurses monitor live patients from behind a camera from a remote location to identify trends in patient data and instability and communicate with patients and bedside nurses. Tele-ICU nurses provide a welcome second pair of eyes to monitor patients, coach and consult with bedside clinicians and to help implement evidence-based practices.
Karen Harvey, RN, MSN, AACN certification programs specialist, says, “Patient safety is at the heart of specialty nursing certification. Nurses who work in tele-ICUs have significant influence on the care, safety and outcomes of acutely and critically ill patients. The CCRN-E certification exam helps to validate the knowledge required for that practice.”
Studies in the May and November 2010 issues of "American Journal of Critical Care" indicate the benefits of specialty nursing certification to nurses and employers. Certified nurses report greater job satisfaction and perceptions of workplace empowerment, researchers find.
To learn about CCRN-E initial exam eligibility, the test plan and how to apply for certification, see the CCRN-E handbook online at http://www.aacn.org/certification.
About AACN Certification Corporation: AACN Certification Corporation, the credentialing arm of the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses, maintains professional practice excellence through certification and certification renewal of nurses who care for acutely and critically ill patients and their families. AACN Certification Corporation develops and administers the CCRN, CCRN-E, PCCN, CCNS and ACNPC specialty exams in acute, progressive and critical care; CMC and CSC subspecialty exams in cardiac medicine and surgery; and, in partnership with the American Organization of Nurse Executives, the CNML exam for nurse managers.
About the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses: Founded in 1969 and based in Aliso Viejo, Calif., the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) is the largest specialty nursing organization in the world. AACN joins together more than 500,000 acute and critical care nurses and claims more than 230 chapters worldwide. The organization’s vision is to create a healthcare system driven by the needs of patients and their families in which acute and critical care nurses make their optimal contribution. To learn more about AACN, visit www.aacn.org.
RSS