Cardiac Vascular Nursing (CVN) Certification Toolkit
What is it? CVN certification is a credential granted by AACN Certification Corporation. CVN certification
validates your knowledge of nursing care of acutely ill patients with cardiac and vascular disease. CVN
certification promotes continuing excellence in the field of cardiovascular nursing.
Why get it? CVN certification helps you maintain an up-to-date knowledge base of the pathophysiology
and nursing care of cardiac and vascular disease, specialized patient education needs, and leadership and
ethical topics related to nursing care of patients with cardiac and vascular disease. In addition to providing
you with a sense of professional pride and achievement, CVN certification reinforces the special knowledge
and experiences required for cardiovascular nursing. Research studies link higher levels of clinical
knowledge, skill and experience with CVN certification.
Eligibility Requirements: Current unencumbered licensure as an RN or APRN in the U.S. is required,
having practiced the equivalent of two years as a full time RN. Practice for 2,000 hours in direct bedside
nursing care of patients with cardiovascular disease during the 3-year period prior to application. Applicants
must have completed 30 hours of continuing education in cardiovascular nursing within the last three years.
What is the exam? The 3-hour CVN exam contains 175 questions items; 150 items are scored and 25 are
used to gather statistical data on item performance for future exams. Those who complete the exam via
computer-based testing will receive their results and a score report immediately upon completion of the
test. Test content outline, reference list, and sample questions and answers can be found at
http://www.nursecredentialing.org/NurseSpecialties/CardiacVascular.aspx. A narrated online review course
and comprehensive review manual are also available for purchase at the previous link.
When and where is the exam offered? Computer-based testing year-round, Monday through Saturday, at
more than 170 testing sites across the U.S., Handwritten form is available if desired. (VA sites include:
Fredericksburg, Norfolk, Lynchburg, Richmond, Roanoke). Test must be taken within a 90-day window of
application.
How do I maintain it? CVN certification is recognized for a 5-year period. You may renew by 1) completing
75 hours of professional development continuing education during the 5-year certification period AND 2)
either retaking and passing the CVN exam or completing 1000 hour minimum of specialty patient care over
the past 5 year.
Pricing & Discounts
2011 Initial
Certification
2010-2011
Renewal
$395
$350
Non-member
$270
$200
American Nurses Association member
$340
$280
Preventive Cardiovascular Nurses Association member
$340
$280
Society for Vascular Nursing member
Applicable To
Am I eligible for reimbursement at UVA? Yes, after passing. UVA will reimburse you $325 for the exam.
You are also eligible for $100 reimbursement upon renewal. (See the PNSO website:
http://www.healthsystem.virginia.edu/internet/pnso/new/ProfDev/FundingSupport.cfm)
What additional UVA resources are available to me? ANCC website has online review materials to
assist those interested in getting certified. ANCC provides free short, interactive sample tests, and online
review available for additional price.
E. Koch
Professional Development Committee, 6/2011