How to Get CRRN Certification: A Step-by-Step Guide for Rehab Nurses

Earning your Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN) credential demonstrates your dedication and expertise in rehabilitation nursing. As a CRRN, you’ll stand out to employers and patients as a highly skilled nurse committed to helping individuals with disabilities and chronic illness restore, maintain, and promote optimal health.

If you’re ready to advance your rehabilitation nursing career pursuing CRRN certification is a great next step. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire CRRN certification process so you can earn this prestigious credential.

Overview of CRRN Certification

The CRRN credential has been the gold standard for qualified rehabilitation nurses for over 30 years. It’s administered by the Rehabilitation Nursing Certification Board (RNCB)

Here’s a quick look at some key facts about CRRN certification:

• Validates specialized rehab nursing knowledge
• Requires passing an exam testing core competencies
• Needs renewing every 5 years through continuing education
• Recognized by employers as the standard of excellence

Rehab nurses who earn their CRRN demonstrate their expertise and enhance their career opportunities. Let’s explore the step-by-step process to get certified.

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

To qualify for the CRRN exam, you must:

• Have an active, unrestricted RN license in the US, US territories, or Canada
• Have at least two years of experience as an RN in rehabilitation nursing within the last five years
  • Or one year RN rehab experience plus one year advanced nursing education

So first, make sure you meet the licensure and experience requirements. Then gather information to verify your rehab nursing background.

Step 2: Verify Your Rehab Nursing Experience

The certification application will ask you to provide contact details for two colleagues who can validate your rehab nursing experience.

One verifier must be your supervisor or another CRRN who has worked with you. The second can be any colleague like a doctor, therapist, or social worker.

If you don’t have a supervisor or CRRN contact due to independent practice or caring for a family member, request alternative verification.

Step 3: Review Deadlines and Fees

CRRN certification is offered twice a year – in June and December. Applications must be submitted by the deadline with the exam fee.

Fees are:

• ARN Members: $300
• Non-Members: $460
• Late Fee: $100

Save money by joining ARN for reduced exam rates. Check the handbook for exact dates.

Step 4: Submit Your CRRN Exam Application

Once your eligibility is confirmed, submit the CRRN exam application through your online ARN account. You’ll provide:

• Personal and licensure details
• Nursing education and experience
• Verifier contact information
• Payment

Allow a few weeks for application processing. Schedule your exam date and location about 45 days before the testing window opens.

Step 5: Study for the CRRN Exam

With your exam scheduled, begin preparing through self-study. Review the exam outline and study materials on the ARN website.

Key content areas include:

• Professional responsibility
• Assessment
• Diagnosis/problem identification
• Planning
• Implementation
• Evaluation

Practice questions and mock exams can help boost your confidence. Form a study group with colleagues for support.

Step 6: Take and Pass the Exam

The CRRN exam contains 150 multiple choice questions, with 3 hours to complete them. It covers the full scope of rehabilitation nursing practice.

Exam locations are available across the US and internationally. Arrive early and relax – you’ve got this! Results are provided immediately after completion.

With diligent preparation, you can absolutely pass on your first try and earn those coveted CRRN initials!

Maintaining Your CRRN Certification

Initial CRRN certification is valid for 5 years. To maintain it, you must accrue 100 continuing education hours and pay a renewal fee every 5 years.

Staying certified shows your dedication to ongoing rehab nursing education and quality patient care. It boosts job security and satisfaction.

Tips for Getting CRRN Certified

Follow these top tips to stay on track throughout the certification process:

• Confirm eligibility early so you know exactly what’s required
• Start compiling verifier contacts and experience documentation
• Register ASAP once applications open to lock-in early bird rates
• Join a study group for camaraderie, collaboration, and keeping studies on track
• Use a variety of study materials like review courses, practice questions, textbooks, and mock exams
• Take study breaks to avoid burnout – marathon studying is counterproductive
• Get familiar with the testing center ahead of time so you’re comfortable on exam day
• Renew on time every 5 years to maintain an active certification status

Pursuing your CRRN credential shows your dedication to rehabilitation nursing excellence. Follow this step-by-step guide to certification to maximize your career opportunities and demonstrate specialized expertise. Reach your rehab nursing goals and earn the CRRN – you’ve got this!