PCCN for travel nurses Progressive Care Certified Nurse · American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN)

Which travel specialties ask for it

• PCU travel nurseOften preferred

Eligibility and exam

Who can get it

A current, unencumbered U.S. RN or APRN license, plus either 1,750 hours of direct care of acutely ill adults in the past 2 years (875 in the most recent year), or 2,000 hours in the past 5 years (144 in the most recent year).

Cost

$260 for AACN members, $375 for non-members.

Valid for

3 years.

Renewal

432 practice hours over the 3 years (144 in the last year), plus 100 continuing education points (CERPs) or a retest.

Tips for travelers

• If your telemetry unit cares for acutely ill adults, those hours may count; check AACN's eligibility details. It's a natural next step for tele travelers aiming at PCU contracts.
• Ask your agency whether it reimburses the exam fee; many do for credentials a contract requires.
• Add the expiration date to your profile: agencies track it, and an expired card can hold up a start date.

Questions

Do travel nurses need PCCN?

PCU / Stepdown contracts often prefer it. Each hospital sets its own list, so check the job post.

Who is eligible for PCCN?

A current, unencumbered U.S. RN or APRN license, plus either 1,750 hours of direct care of acutely ill adults in the past 2 years (875 in the most recent year), or 2,000 hours in the past 5 years (144 in the most recent year).

How much does PCCN cost?

$260 for AACN members, $375 for non-members.

How long is PCCN valid?

3 years. 432 practice hours over the 3 years (144 in the last year), plus 100 continuing education points (CERPs) or a retest.