Preparing for the CCRN exam is a journey that many of us in the nursing field find both challenging and rewarding. When I first decided to tackle the CCRN, I was overwhelmed by the sheer number of review books available. I want to share my experience and insights on a few key resources that stood out during my study process.
When I started, I wasn’t sure where to begin, so I did some research on the most recommended CCRN review books. One book that consistently popped up was Barron’s CCRN Exam. This book is known for its comprehensive coverage and the quality of its practice questions. It provided a solid foundation, especially for those of us who haven’t been in a formal classroom setting for a while. The detailed explanations in the answer key helped me understand where I was making mistakes, which was crucial for my learning process.
Another gem I discovered was Pass CCRN! by Robin Donohoe Dennison. This book felt like a more interactive study guide, breaking down complex concepts into manageable chunks. I appreciated the practical tips sprinkled throughout the text, which made it easier to apply the knowledge to real-world scenarios. The online resources that come with this book were particularly useful—practice exams, flashcards, and more, which kept my study sessions dynamic.
A standout resource I encountered was Critical Care Nursing Certification: Preparation, Review, and Practice Exams by Thomas Ahrens, Donna Prentice, and Ruth Kleinpell. This book isn’t just a review—it’s a deep dive into critical care concepts with practice questions that are incredibly reflective of the actual exam. The thoroughness of the content meant I could confidently tackle even the most difficult questions on the exam.
While these books provided an excellent foundation, I also explored online courses to supplement my learning. The AACN’s CCRN Review course was particularly helpful because it aligns closely with the actual exam content. I found that their practice exams mirrored the format of the real exam, which was a great confidence booster as I got closer to test day. The course’s ability to explain difficult concepts in a straightforward way made a significant difference for me.
Additionally, I experimented with some newer resources, like Nick’s CCRN Academy. This course was created by a fellow nurse who saw a gap in the market and decided to fill it. It’s a more modern approach to studying, with content that’s continually updated to reflect the latest exam changes. I found his focus on the CCRN blueprint to be laser-sharp, cutting out the fluff and concentrating on what truly matters for the exam.
