Renewal Audit FAQs

Why am I being audited?

In compliance with standard regulatory practices and support of our mission of patient protection, AACN Certification Corporation conducts random audits following submission of renewal applications. 

What do I need to include in my completed audit package?

• Audit checklist
• Copy of current unencumbered RN or APRN license
• Letter from supervisor or professional colleague verifying completion of direct bedside hours
• Completed Synergy CERPs Log
• Documentation of 100 CERPs as outlined in the Renewal by Synergy CERPs program (CMC and CSC renewal require 25 Category A Clinical Judgment CERPs)

What if I don't have my certification renewal handbook?

You may download a copy of the handbook below.

• CCRN/PCCN Renewal Handbook
• CMC/CSC Renewal Handbook

What if I lose my CERP Log?

A CERP Log can be found in your renewal handbook (see link above). CCRNs and PCCNs may download electronic versions of the Synergy CERPs Log below.

• Editable Excel version of Synergy CERPs Log 
• Printable PDF version of Synergy CERPs Log 

If I lose my renewal audit checklist how do I obtain a duplicate?

You may download a copy of the Audit Checklist below.

• CCRN/PCCN Renewal Audit Checklist
• CMC/CSC Renewal Audit Checklist
  • Be sure the dates you list reflect your previous renewal period.
  • For example, if your scheduled certification renewal date was 11/1/09, the dates you would list on your audit checklist would be 11/1/06 - 10/31/09. This is the date range that all your CERPs and clinical hours must fall into.
  • To confirm your date range and/or audit due date, please contact Susan Mundale at (800) 394-5995, ext. 267.

Within which date range must the CERPs for my renewal audit fall?

Your CERP activities must fall into the date range of the 3-year period prior to your scheduled renewal date.  

Does my name need to be on my CE certificate?

Yes. Please make sure your name, the title and date of the course and the hours attended appear on all certificates and letters of verification.

How many CERPs is my AACN membership worth?

AACN membership is worth three CERPs for each year of active membership, up to nine per 3-year renewal period.

May I count ACLS and BLS programs towards my CERPs?

Yes. However, a copy of your card is not sufficient as it does not include actual class time, which varies. Provide documentation of hours in course (so total number of CERPs may be calculated), along with course date and title, your name and signature of a supervisor, educator or professional associate.

• Note: CMC and CSC renewal candidates may count an ACLS course for CERPs once per 3-year renewal period; BLS courses may not be counted for CMC or CSC renewal.

What happens if I do not respond to or pass the audit?

Certificants selected for audit are notified via mail and have 60 days from the date of the notification letter to submit the required verification materials.

• If materials are not submitted to AACN within 60 days, certification will be revoked and notices may be sent to the candidate's employer and state Board of Nursing, where appropriate.