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The numbers and patterns that show up again and again on the Adult CCRN. Skim this in the
days before your exam — then test yourself with real questions.
Exam facts at a glance
- 150 questions (125 scored, 25 unscored), 3 hours
- 80% Clinical Judgment by body system, 20% Professional Caring (Synergy Model)
- Cardiovascular is the largest single section (~17%)
Hemodynamic normals
| Parameter | Normal range |
|---|---|
| CVP | 2–6 mmHg |
| PA pressure | 15–25 / 8–15 mmHg |
| PCWP (wedge) | 8–12 mmHg |
| Cardiac output | 4–8 L/min |
| Cardiac index | 2.5–4.0 L/min/m² |
| SVR | 800–1200 dynes·s/cm⁵ |
| MAP | 70–100 mmHg (keep ≥65 in shock) |
ABG quick read
Normals: pH 7.35–7.45, PaCO2 35–45 mmHg, HCO3 22–26 mEq/L, PaO2
80–100 mmHg. Read pH first (acidotic or alkalotic), then decide whether CO2
(respiratory) or HCO3 (metabolic) explains it, then check whether the other system is
compensating.
Critical lab values to know cold
- Potassium 3.5–5.0 mEq/L — watch peaked T waves (high) and U waves (low)
- Sodium 135–145 mEq/L
- Ionized calcium and magnesium for arrhythmias
- Lactate as a perfusion marker in shock
Common ICU drips
- Norepinephrine — first-line vasopressor in septic shock
- Vasopressin — added to norepinephrine
- Dobutamine — inotrope for low cardiac output
- Nitroglycerin — preload reduction, ischemic chest pain
Memorizing these is the floor, not the ceiling. The exam tests how you use them
under pressure, so pair this sheet with timed practice questions.
Unlock 590+ CCRN practice questions across 4 full-length simulators — $19.99 lifetime →
Sources & references
The exam facts on this page are drawn from official certifying-body materials, reviewed 2026-06-18 by the DrCertifications exam-prep team (10+ years in exam preparation and publishing).