PCCN Practice Test
Your Proven Shortcut to Progressive Care Certified Nurse (PCCN) Examination Success
Get exam-style questions, detailed explanations, and realistic timing to master the latest American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Corporation. Prepare PCCN practice test then walk into your Nursing exam with confidence.
"Join thousands who passed their test by practicing with Progressive Care Certified Nurse (PCCN) Examination exam questions just like the real thing."
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How Our Practice Test Works?
Study wherever, whenever with these quiz types:
Pick a Mode
You can choose Exam Mode (timed 90-minute simulation) or Study Mode for preparation.
Realistic Mix
Questions reflect both multiple-choice and scenario/performance-style prompts aligned to PCCN objectives.
Detailed Explanations
Every question includes a clear explanation, so you know why an answer is correct.
Domain Analytics
See strengths/weaknesses by the domains & sub-topics to focus your revision.
Reattempts
Retake sets to improve your speed and accuracy; watch your score trend toward the benchmark.
Exam Simulator
Get a feel for the real exam with our American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Corporation practice test.
Why Choose PrepHOW for PCCN Practice Questions
Train the way you'll be tested. Our platform replicates the real American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Corporation experience and turns every attempt into clear, actionable progress-so you waste less time and pass sooner.
Real Exam Feel
Exam/Study modes, question flagging, and instant or end-of-exam feedback.
Smarter Analytics, Faster Improvement
Trend charts so you can see when you're consistently above the passing scrore.
Quality You Can Trust
Clear, teach-back explanations with why the correct answer is right and why others aren't.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PCCN certification?
The Progressive Care Certified Nurse (PCCN) certification, offered by the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN), validates the knowledge and skills of registered nurses providing direct care to acutely ill adult patients in progressive care settings, such as step-down units. It focuses on patients along the less acute end of the critical care continuum, emphasizing nursing care based on patient needs rather than location.
What are the eligibility requirements for the PCCN exam?
To be eligible, you must hold a current, unencumbered U.S. RN or APRN license and meet one of the following clinical hour requirements through the Direct Care Pathway:
- Two-Year Option: 1,750 hours of direct care for acutely ill adult patients in the past two years, with at least 875 hours in the year before applying.
- Five-Year Option: 2,000 hours of direct care for acutely ill adult patients in the past five years, with at least 144 hours in the year before applying.
What content areas does the PCCN exam cover?
The exam covers:
- Cardiovascular conditions (30%)
- Pulmonary conditions (17%)
- Endocrine/hematology/gastrointestinal/renal/integumentary conditions (20%)
- Musculoskeletal/neurological/psychosocial conditions (14%)
- Multisystem conditions (11%)
- Professional caring and ethical practice (8%)
What patient care settings does the PCCN certification cover?
PCCN certification is for nurses who provide direct care to acutely ill adult patients, regardless of their physical location. This typically includes units referred to as:
- Intermediate Care Units (IMCU)
- Direct Observation Units (DOU)
- Step-down Units
- Telemetry Units
- Transitional Care Units
What study resources are recommended for PCCN exam preparation?
Popular study resources include the AACN's official PCCN Review Book, online Prephow PCCN practice tests, review courses, and study apps. Many nurses also find success joining study groups and reviewing clinical practice guidelines for progressive care conditions.
Where can I take the PCCN exam?
The PCCN exam is offered year-round at PSI testing centers and can also be taken through online proctoring, allowing candidates to test remotely from home or another secure location.
How long is the PCCN certification valid?
The PCCN certification is valid for three years. Nurses must renew by meeting continuing education requirements or by retaking the exam before their certification expires.