CFRN - Certified Flight Registered Nurse

The Certified Flight Registered Nurse (CFRN) certification is a prestigious credential specifically designed for registered nurses who specialize in providing critical care in aeromedical environments. This certification, administered by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing (BCEN), recognizes the expertise of nurses in handling complex patient care during air medical transport. It validates a nurse’s ability to manage the unique challenges of patient care in flight, including response to in-flight emergencies, understanding of flight physiology, and operation within a confined space.

Cost: $285 for professional association members and $380 for non-members

The CFRN examination assesses a nurse’s knowledge and skills in flight nursing practice. The exam format includes:

• Exam Length: Typically 3 hours

• Question Format: Primarily multiple-choice questions covering clinical practice, flight physiology, safety and survival, and other relevant areas

• Number of Questions: Approximately 175 questions

• Passing Criteria: Candidates need to answer at least 108 out of 150 scored items correctly to pass.

1. Education and Experience: Hold a current, unrestricted RN license and have experience in flight or critical care nursing.

2. Application: Submit an application through BCEN, including documentation of RN licensure and relevant experience.

3. Examination: Successfully pass the CFRN examination.

4. Certification Issuance: Receive the certification upon passing the exam.

CFRN certification requires renewal every 4 years, involving:

1. Completion of 100 continuing education hours in flight nursing or related areas.

2. Submission of a renewal application and fee to BCEN.

3. Meeting additional recertification requirements as specified by BCEN.

CFRN holders must earn continuing education credits in areas relevant to flight nursing, such as patient safety in aeromedical environments, advanced clinical skills, and emergency response. These credits can be obtained through workshops, seminars, conferences, and online courses.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on CFRN certification, including specific eligibility criteria, exam content, and renewal processes, candidates should refer directly to the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing (BCEN).

Preparation resources include study guides, practice tests, review courses, and reference materials that cover critical care, emergency nursing, and flight nursing content. BCEN offers some official preparation materials, and various third-party providers also offer relevant study resources.

Prior to pursuing CFRN certification, candidates must have a current unrestricted RN license. After obtaining CFRN, nurses may pursue additional certifications in critical care transport, emergency nursing, or other specialized areas, depending on their career interests.

The BCEN also offers the following:

• Burn Nursing Specialty Certification (CBRN)

• Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN)

• Trauma Certified Registered Nurse (TCRN)

Other related certifications include the ASTNA Transport Professional Advanced Trauma Course (TPATC).