Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse – CPAN (ABPANC)
By Raising Careers Staff | Updated: August 2019
OVERVIEW
Certification Description
The Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse (CPAN) certification certifies that a nurse has the knowledge to properly help care for patients who may still be under the effects of anesthesia from a recent procedure. Nurses with this credential have advanced knowledge in pharmacology, IV skills and basic life support.
Nurses with this credential may have career advancement opportunities and higher pay that other professionals may not be eligible for.
Skills Focus
The certification focuses on the following areas:
- Ability to recognize normal and abnormal diagnostic values
- Knowledge of the body systems
- Willingness to work with a multi-disciplinary team
- Understanding of pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics
- Competency with anesthesia techniques and reversal agents
- Knowledge of confidentiality and HIPPA
- Familiarity with infection protection and disease control
- Proficiency working with ASPAN Standards
Exam Objectives
Download the exam objectives for the CPAN (ABPANC) certification.
Exam Details
- Issuing Organization: American Board of Perianesthesia Nursing Certification (ABPANC)
- Prerequisites: Applicants must hold an active RN license; applicant must have at least 1,200 hours, in the last 2 years, of direct clinical experience; other requirements may apply
- Questions: 185
- Time: 180 minutes
- Cost: : $314 for ASPAN members, $424 for non-members
- Re-certification and certification renewal: Every 3 years
- Download the certification handbook
Other relevant details: Exam is given at PSI testing centers
CPAN (ABPANC) Careers
Post-Anesthesia Care Nurse Careers
Jobs you can get with a CPAN (ABPANC) certification (additional requirements may apply):
- Registered Nurse (RN)
- Post-Anesthesia Care Nurse
Salary (Base Level)
A specialty certification may not only increase your employability, but may increase your earnings potential as well. Keep in mind that your actual salary can vary substantially depending on region, job description and employer expectations. Reference salary for the Registered Nurse (RN) shown. Salary based on 2019 data.
National average per year: $71,730*
National average per hour: $34.48*
*Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
CPAN (ABPANC) Training
Exam Preparation
- Study from the key topics on the Exam Handbook
- Use the Exam Blueprint as a study guide
- Download and complete sample questions from the ABPANC study app
- Complete practice exams
- Read and review the suggested list of reference books from the ABPANC
Important: This is not a complete list of all certification training and learning options available. Remember to thoroughly research and choose study materials that fit your learning style and needs. This step is crucial to help you succeed in your certification exam.
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