AACN Scope and Standards for Progressive and Critical Care Nursing Practice

​Progressive Care Nurses: For the latest practice standards, please refer to the 2025 stand-alone edition of the AACN Scope and Standards for Progressive Care Nursing Practice.​

​Critical Care Nurses: AACN will publish the stand-alone AACN Scope and Standards for Critical Care Nursing Practice in early 2026. Until then, please continue to reference this document.

AACN Scope and Standards for Progressive and Critical Care Nursing Practice incorporates advances in scientific knowledge, clinical practice, technology and other changes in the dynamic healthcare environment.

The scope and standards describe and measure the expected level of practice and professional performance for progressive and critical care registered nurses and articulates the contributions of progressive and critical care nursing to a patient and family-centered healthcare system.

A resource for all nurses practicing in a progressive or critical care setting, the up-to-date guide offers a practical tool for students, faculty, nurses in practice, members of the interprofessional team and other nursing colleagues.