Frequently Asked Questions About AACN Membership

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Who are AACN members and where do they practice?

AACN members are nurses who practice virtually everywhere acutely and critically ill patients can be found — traditional intensive care units, progressive care units, cardiac and surgical units, home health and primary care settings. In addition to being at the bedside, AACN members are on the forefront of research, academia, staff development and management.


What clinical resources are available to members?

We have clinical resources covering a wide range of topics including administrative and regulatory issues, advanced practice, career development, certification, ethics, end-of-life care, legal issues, public policy and research. Best of all, these resources are available in a variety of mediums to meet your needs.


Do I have to be certified to join AACN?

This is a common misconception. AACN membership is separate from AACN certifications, which include: CCRN, PCCN, ACCNS-AG, ACCNS-P, ACCNS-N, ACNPC-AG, CMC and CSC (CCNS and ACNPC as renewal options only). You have the option to be an AACN member or sit for the certification exams - or both.

The choice is yours. However, as a member you receive discounts on your certification exam and certification renewal fees.


Can I join AACN in my community?

As part of national AACN membership, all members also have the opportunity to join a local chapter in their area. We currently have more than 235 chapters worldwide, allowing abundant opportunities for involvement in local decision-making, networking and enhancement of leadership skills.


AACN — A Value Proposition

AACN is committed to continually reviewing our products, services and benefits to ensure that we are meeting the needs of our members and customers. Additional benefits of membership include:

  • Subscriptions to Critical Care Nurse and American Journal of Critical Care.
  • Discounted $45 subscriptions to AACN Advanced Critical Care.
  • Eligibility for a wide range of scholarships, grants and awards.
  • Unlimited FREE CE credits for offerings from AACN print journals and the extensive Online CE Center.
  • Special member rates for all AACN products and services including discounts to the National Teaching Institute & Critical Care Exposition and on the CCRN, PCCN, ACCNS-AG, ACCNS-P, ACCNS-N, ACNPC-AG, CMC and CSC certification exams.
  • Professional liability, group term life, major medical, excess major medical, dental, disability income and hospital income insurance programs as well as long-term care insurance available through Mercer Health & Benefits Insurance Services LLC.