CNS Wellness through Acute Care Adult-Gero – ACCNS-AG (AACN)

By Raising Careers Staff | Updated: August 2019

Certification Description

The CNS Wellness through Acute Care Adult-Gero (ACCNS-AG) certification is an entry-level certification for clinical nurse specialists who have a graduate degree. Clinical nurse specialists with this certification have the skills and expertise to provide all-inclusive care to adult-gerontology patients.

Clinical nurse specialists 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 interpret hemodynamic valves
• Knowledge of how to manage patients with pacemakers
• Understanding of how to avoid surgical site infections
• Competency in de-escalation techniques and crisis prevention
• Ability to interpret diagnostic imaging
• Knowledge of how to provide wound care
• Familiarity with echocardiogram data
• Understanding of nasogastric tubes
• Proficiency working with GI infectious disorders

Exam Objectives

Download Exam Objectives and Handbook

Exam Details

• Issuing Organization: American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN)
• Prerequisites: Applicants must hold an active RN or APRN license; applicants must have completed a graduate-level advanced practice education program; refer to the handbook for specific eligibility requirements.
• Questions: 175
• Time: 210 minutes
• Cost: Cost: $255 for AACN members and $360 for non-members
• Re-certification and certification renewal: Every 3 years
• Exam Outline and Handbook

Other relevant details: Exam is given at PSI/AMP testing centers

Clinical Nurse Specialist Careers

Jobs you can get with a ACCNS-AG (AACN) certification (additional requirements may apply):

• Clinical Nurse Specialist

Clinical Nurse Specialist Salary

The actual salary can vary substantially depending on region, job description and employer expectations. Specialized certifications can result in substantially higher salaries in some cases. 2019 data shown.

National average per year: $113,930
National average per hour: $54.78

*Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Exam Preparation

• Study from the key topics on the exam objectives and handbook
• Review practice questions
• Read and review the AACN suggested books
• Consider an online review course
• Practice with flash cards

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.