FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
ARE YOU READY TO BECOME A CERTIFIED CARDIAC VASCULAR NURSE?
What is the certification?– The Cardiac/Vascular Nurse Certification is a nationally recognized certification through ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center). Certification demonstrates to others that you are a clinical expert in the management of patients and those at risk for cardiovascular events.
Am I eligible?
Requirements (Available on theANCC website)
Candidates must meet all of the following basic eligibility requirements:
- Hold a current, active RN license within a state or territory of the United States or the professional, legally recognized equivalent in another country
- Have practiced the equivalent of two years full time as an Registered Nurse
- Have a minimum of 2,000 hours of clinical practice in cardiac vascular nursing within the last 3 years
- Have completed 30 hours of continuing education in cardiac vascular nursing within the last 3 years
What is the fee?
- If you are a member of the ANA, the cost is $270.00
- If you are a member of SVN the fee is $340.00
- No membership, the fee is $390.00.
How do I apply? - The application is available on the ANCC website (Exam Application). It is the current application as of 2/14/08.
How is the test administered? - It is administered through ANCC after you have applied. It is a computer based test. You can take the test at a location near you.
What is the content of the test? - There are 175 questions on the test. The content is outlined in detail on the ANCC website. The sections and % of test questions are:
- Provision of care 42.67%
- Pathophysiology and Manifestation of cardiac and vascular disease 17.33%
- Patient & Family/Caregiver Education 10.67%
- Communication 10.00%
- Psychosocial Aspects of Cardiac Vascular Disease 7.33%
- Legal and Ethical Issues 6.67%
- Leadership 5.33%
How do I prepare for the test?
- Purchase the Cardiac Vascular Review and Resource Manual (published in January 2007). See the “Review and Resource Manuals” on the ANCC website. Cost: $85.00, ANA member: $75.00.
What are you waiting for? Start working on becoming certified today!
