CRNI® Study Information

Exam Overview

Yes, the CRNI® exam is challenging, but that challenge is integral to the credential’s strength and value. 

 

The exam is challenging because it covers ALL core areas of infusion nursing, as defined by a job analysis of infusion nurses. Because a comprehensive knowledge base is required to earn the CRNI® credential, most candidates will need to study. How much should you study? What should you study? There are no simple answers; however, the information that follows will help you understand your options and get prepared for the CRNI® exam.

 

How Much Time Do I Need to Study? 

Study time varies based on YOUR current knowledge base. You’ll need to determine your areas of strength and weakness. The best way to do this is by carefully evaluating the exam’s Detailed Content Outline and Task List in relation to your current experience and knowledge. 

 

Many candidates tell us that taking the practice test in the CRNI® Exam Study Guide is also helpful in determining their current knowledge base. You can tailor your study according to your findings. Most successful candidates have said that an average of three months is sufficient study time. 

 

What are INCC's Recommended Study Aids?

We recommend a combination of educational materials. Your choice depends on your learning style and knowledge base. Following is a comprehensive list of recommended study aids. For product details visit the INS Store. 

 

The CRNI® Study Guide and Practice Questions 

The CRNI® Examination Preparation Program DVD* 

The Core Curriculum for Infusion Nursing, 4th edition coming soon!

The Infusion Nursing Standards of Practice 

Infusion Nursing: An Evidence-Based Approach

Policies and Procedures for Infusion Nursing, 4th edition

 

Which Study Aids Do I Need?

If you find that your starting knowledge base is comprehensive, and you have a good working knowledge of the INS Standards of Practice, then the CRNI® Study Guide and Practice Questions along with one other resource, such as the CRNI® Examination Preparation Program DVD* or Core Curriculum for Infusion Nursing, may be sufficient. Many candidates have told us that using both the Core and DVD provides some variety in studying for this comprehensive exam which, in turn, has led to a passing score.

 

Candidates who felt that more in-depth study of all core areas was necessary have benefited from referring to Infusion Nursing: An Evidence-Based Approach.

 

Additional references, approved by the RN Exam Council for use in writing exam questions, can help supplement study in any specific core area. 

 

Review Courses

Conflict of interest concerns prevent INCC from offering review courses. However, there are organizations that have developed their own programs. These can be found on our Web page. A listing on INCC’s Web site does not serve to endorse a program.

 

Your local INS chapter is an alternative source of information on any local review courses. 

 

General Preparedness

Carefully review the CRNI® Exam Handbook to make sure you have a good understanding of the CRNI® exam application and test-taking procedure.   Structure your time; write on a calendar when you plan to study each of the core areas and stick to it. Tailor your study time according to your strengths and weaknesses, taking into account the varying weight of each content area. Write key points for each of the core areas on study cards that you can use later to review the information.    Take frequent short breaks while studying; you will retain more information. Try studying for 20 minutes, then taking a 5-minute break. Distract your mind from studying by walking around or stretching. Avoid cramming; the final week before the exam should be spent reviewing your study cards, not learning new information.

Network with CRNI®s and exam candidates for study tips and perhaps form a study group. CRNI®s you know can be a great resource. Find INCC on Facebook and join your local INS chapter.   Nervous About the Test-Taking Experience? Our testing agency, AMP, has produced a video to guide you through the test-taking process and familiarize you with computer-based testing. Watch the video and be fully prepared for test day.

 

But don’t just take our word for it. Here are some thoughts from one of your colleagues.

 

“Determination, perseverance, discipline, and [being] goal-focused will aim you at your target—passing the CRNI® exam. I feel GREAT and PROUD!”

Ronald Franco, BSN, RN, CRNI®

 

Don’t hesitate to contact INCC with any questions about how you can achieve the prestigious status of CRNI®.

Ultimately, the Core Curriculum [was most helpful in preparing for the exam] because of the vast amount of information that is “testable.” The Core serves as the outline to guide you through your studies.

Tara Johnson, RN, CRNI®

Deaconess Homecare, Henderson, TN 

The DVD was the most helpful to me [in preparing for the exam]. I am a visual person and used it more often than the other study aids.

Valerie Beasley, RN, CRNI®

Norton Audubon Hospital, Louisville, KY