CRN - Certified Radiologic Nurse

The Certified Radiologic Nurse (CRN) certification, administered by the Association for Radiologic & Imaging Nursing (ARIN), is a specialized credential for registered nurses who work in the field of radiology and imaging. This certification validates a nurse's expertise in patient care before, during, and after radiologic and imaging procedures. It demonstrates the nurse’s ability to provide comprehensive care in settings where diagnostic imaging, interventional procedures, and radiation therapy are conducted. The CRN certification is designed for nurses seeking recognition for their specialized skills in radiologic and imaging nursing.

Completion Time: 3 hours

Cost: $325.00 for ARIN members (includes a $25.00 application fee); $425.00 for non-members (includes a $25.00 application fee)

Exam Format

The CRN exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering key areas of radiologic and imaging nursing, including patient assessment, patient education, safety protocols, and emergency care.

Topics also encompass knowledge of imaging procedures and the nurse’s role in interventional radiology, radiation safety, and patient care management.

Eligibility criteria include an RN license and professional experience in a radiology department or imaging center.

The application process involves submitting documentation of nursing experience and educational qualifications.

If unsuccessful on the exam, candidates can reapply following ARIN’s reexamination policies.

CRN certification is valid for 4 years and must be renewed. To recertify as a Certified Radiology Nurse (CRN), candidates must:

• Hold a current, active RN license or international equivalent, with a copy submitted with their recertification application.

• Have completed at least 2,000 hours in radiology nursing within the past 4 years.

• Be practicing radiology nursing for an average of 8 hours per week.

• Choose one of two recertification paths:

  • By examination (meeting the same eligibility criteria as for initial certification), or

  • By continuing education: complete 60 contact hours within four years (at least 30 hours must be directly related to radiology nursing).

Contact hours may be earned through any approved continuing education activity applicable to radiology nursing.

Renewal Fees

• ARIN Member: $325

• Non-Member: $425

• Late fee: $125

Proof of 60 contact hours may be earned through the following categories:

• Category A: Radiology Nursing Programs

• Category B: Academic Credit Courses

• Category C: Professional Publications

• Category D: Presentations

• Category E: Multimedia Program Development

• Category F: Home Study Activities

• Category G: General Nursing and Health Care Programs

Continuing education requirements typically include specific hours of education related to radiology and imaging nursing. Detailed records of these activities must be maintained and submitted for the recertification process.

For the most current and detailed information regarding Certified Radiologic Nurse certification, including application guidelines, exam schedules, study materials, and renewal processes, it is advised to refer directly to the Association for Radiologic & Imaging Nursing (ARIN) website.

ARIN provides study materials, including a candidate handbook, detailed test content outline, and recommended reading list. Additional resources may include review courses, clinical practice guidelines, and professional journals in radiologic and imaging nursing.

After obtaining the CRN certification, nurses may pursue further specializations in nursing or advanced certifications in radiology-related fields.

Other related certifications include:

• Advanced Radiology Life Support (ARLS)

• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)

• Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)