candidate handbook - International Nurses Society on Addictions

The Addictions Nursing Certification Board Candidate HandbookQUESTIONS ABOUT CertificationAll questions and requests for information aboutcertification should be directed to:ANCB Certification ProgramAddictions <strong>Nurses</strong> Certification BoardP.O. Box 14846Voice: 913-895-4622Fax: 913-895-4652Web site: www.intnsa.orgHOW TO CONTACT AMPAll questions and requests for information about theexamination process should be directed to:Applied Measurement Professionals, Inc.18000 W 105th St.Olathe, KS 66061-7543Phone: 913-895-4600Fax: 913-895-4650Web site: www.goAMP.comabout THE Addictions Nursingcertification boardThe Addictions Nursing Certification Board (ANCB) wasestablished in 1989 for the purpose of promoting thehighest standards of addictions nursing practice throughdevelopment, implementation, and coordination of allaspects of certification for addictions nurses.Certification attests to attainment of specialized knowledgebeyond the basic nursing credential. Certification serves tomaintain and to promote quality nursing care by providinga mechanism for nurses to demonstrate their proficiencyin a nursing specialty area. It documents that specialknowledge has been achieved, elevates the standards ofaddictions nursing practice, and provides for expandedcareer opportunities and advancement within the specialtyof addictions nursing. Thus, certification benefits the nurse,the profession of nursing, and the public.Testing AgencyApplied Measurement Professionals, Inc. (AMP) is engagedin educational and occupational measurement andprovides examination development and administrationto a variety of client organizations. AMP assists ANCB inthe development, administration, scoring and analysisof the Certified Addictions Registered Nurse (CARN)Examination and the Certified Addictions Registered Nurse– Advanced Practice (CARN-AP) Examination. AMP, locatedin the greater Kansas City area, is a leading provider oflicensing and certification examinations for professionalorganizations.Nondiscrimination policyAMP does not discriminate among <strong>candidate</strong>s onthe basis of age, gender, race, color, religion, nationalorigin, disability, marital status or any other protectedcharacteristic.EXAMINATION ADMINISTRATIONExaminations are delivered by computer at approximately190 AMP Assessment Centers located throughout theUnited States. The examination is administered byappointment only Monday through Friday at 9:00 a.m.and 1:30 p.m. Saturday appointments may be scheduledbased on availability. Available dates will be indicated whenscheduling your examination. Candidates are scheduled ona first-come, first-served basis.ASSESSMENT CENTER LOCATIONSAMP Assessment Centers have been selected to provideaccessibility to the most <strong>candidate</strong>s in all states and majormetropolitan areas. A current listing of AMP AssessmentCenters, including addresses and driving directions, maybe viewed at AMP’s website located at www.goAMP.com.Specific address information will be provided when youschedule an examination appointment.The parent society for ANCBis <strong>International</strong> <strong>Nurses</strong> <strong>Society</strong>on Addictions (IntNSA). IntNSAmembership provides manybenefits including reduced ratesfor their educational conference and paid subscriptionto the Journal of Addictions Nursing. For membershipinformation, please visit http://www.intnsa.org or call (913)895-4622 or request an application at intnsa@intnsa.org.1

The Addictions Nursing Certification Board Candidate HandbookSPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR CANDIDATESWITH DISABILITIESAMP complies with the Americans with Disabilities Actand strives to ensure that no individual with a disabilityas defined by the ADA as a person who has a physical ormental impairment that substantially limits one or moremajor life activities, a person who has a history or recordof such an impairment, or a person who is perceivedby others as having such an impairment is deprivedof the opportunity to take the examination solely byreason of that disability. AMP will provide reasonableaccommodations for <strong>candidate</strong>s with disabilities.Candidates requesting special accommodations must callAMP at 888-519-9901 to schedule their examination.1. Wheelchair access is available at all establishedAssessment Centers. Candidates must advise AMP at thetime of scheduling that wheelchair access is necessary.2. Candidates with visual, sensory, physical or learningdisabilities that would prevent them from taking theexamination under standard conditions may requestspecial accommodations and arrangements and will bereviewed by AMP.Verification of the disability and a statement of the specifictype of assistance needed must be made in writing to AMPat least 45 calendar days prior to your desired examinationdate by completing the Request for Special ExaminationAccommodations form. AMP will review the submittedforms and will contact you regarding the decision foraccommodations.TELECOMMUNICATION DEVICESFOR THE DEAFAMP is equipped with Telecommunication Devices for theDeaf (TDD) to assist deaf and hearing-impaired <strong>candidate</strong>s.TDD calling is available 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Central Time)Monday-Friday at 913-895-4637. This TDD phone option isfor individuals equipped with compatible TDD machinery.ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA – CARNTo be determined eligible to participate in the certificationexamination, <strong>candidate</strong>s must meet the followingrequirements:1. Hold a current, full, and unrestricted license asa registered nurse (RN) in the United States, itspossessions or Canada. If licensed in more thanone jurisdiction, the <strong>candidate</strong> must hold full andunrestricted licenses in all jurisdictions. Non-US nurseswho meet the eligibility criteria are also invited toapply for the CARN examination, but must submitevidence of equivalent licensure as RN.2. Have a minimum of 2000 hours (one year) of nursingexperience related to addictions as an RN in a staff,administrative, teaching, private practice, consultation,counseling, or research capacity and;3. 30 hours of continuing education related to addictionsnursing within the last three (3) years.ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA – CARN-APTo be determined eligible to participate in the certificationexamination for advanced practice in addictions nursing, a<strong>candidate</strong> must meet the following requirements:1. Hold a current, full, and unrestricted license asa registered nurse (RN) in the United States, itspossessions, or Canada. If licensed in more thanone jurisdiction, the <strong>candidate</strong> must hold full andunrestricted licenses in all jurisdictions. Non-US orCanadian nurses who meet eligibility criteria mustsubmit evidence of equivalent licensure as an RN.2. Hold a master’s degree or higher in nursing.3. The applicant must provide documentation verifyinga minimum of 500 hours of supervised, direct clientcontact in advanced clinical practice working withindividuals and families impacted by addictions/dualdiagnoses. All 500 hours may be earned while in themaster’s program.• Submit a copy of the <strong>candidate</strong>’s master’s programtranscript verifying the hours of supervised clinicalpractice.AND/OR:• Submit the enclosed Verification Form(s), signed bythe consultant(s)/supervisor(s), to verify completionof post-master’s hours of supervised direct client/patient contact which together with hours ofsupervised practice in the master’s program, equal500 or more hours.• It is preferable that the post-master’s consultation/supervision be provided by a professional withexperience and expertise in the field of addictions.The consulting/ supervising professional maybe one of the following: a) an addictions nurse2

The Addictions Nursing Certification Board Candidate Handbookspecialist with a master’s or higher degree and CARNcertification; b) a master’s prepared licensed/certifiedmental health social worker; c) a psychiatrist; d) apsychologist prepared at the doctoral level and listedin the National Registry of Health Service Providersin Psychology; or e) a psychologist prepared at thedoctoral level in an APA-accredited program in oneof the following clinical areas: clinical psychology,counseling, psychology, or school psychology.EXAMINATION FEESMembers of IntNSA who are eligible for certification mayapply at a reduced fee. Membership in IntNSA must becurrent through the date of the examination to be eligiblefor the reduced fee. If you are not currently a member youwill receive one year membership to IntNSA by selectingthe New Member category. If you do not wish to receive themembership you may choose the non-member category.For more information on membership benefits visitwww.intnsa.org.Late application feeThe regular fee applies to applications filed by the deadlinedate indicated. Late applications received after thedeadline, but prior to the final cutoff date, are assesseda late fee of $25.00, which must be included with theapplication.REFUND, TRANSFER AND WITHDRAWALPOLICIESAfter an individual’s eligibility has been confirmed,applications may not be withdrawn. The fees are nonrefundableand non-transferrable.Carn and CARN-ap examinationsThe ANCB Certification examinations are based on a RoleDelineation Study (RDS), also known as a practice analysis,which was completed in 2012. The purpose of that studywas to identify the content specifications separately for thetwo examinations, based on survey responses of addictionsnurses and advanced practice nurses, as interpreted by apanel of subject matter experts. An executive summary ofeach study is available at www.intsna.org. The RDS resultedin the Detailed Content Outlines that are shown here.Each examination will include 120 items used to compute<strong>candidate</strong>s’ scores, as specified in the outlines. In addition,25 unscored pretest items will be presented to <strong>candidate</strong>s,in scrambled order, to allow ANCB to evaluate the quality ofthose items for use on future examination forms.CARN ExaminationFee*Spring Testing PeriodMay 1 - 15CARN-APExamination Fee*Application ReceiptDeadlineLate ApplicationReceipt Deadline*Member $195.00 $295.00New Member $335.00 $435.00April 1 April 8Non-Member $395.00 $495.00* Applications received between April 2 and April 8 will require an additional $25 late fee. Applications received AFTERApril 8 will be processed for the next examination period.CARN ExaminationFee*Fall Testing PeriodOctober 1 - 15CARN-APExamination Fee*3Application ReceiptDeadlineLate ApplicationReceipt Deadline*Member $195.00 $295.00New Member $335.00 $435.00September 1 September 8Non-Member $395.00 $495.00* Applications received between September 2 and September 8 will require an additional $25 late fee. Applicationsreceived AFTER September 8 will be processed for the next examination period.

The Addictions Nursing Certification Board Candidate HandbookCARN Content Outline# of Items # of Items1. Assessment 28A. Basic assessment considerations1. Base assessment techniques on theory, research andbest practices2. Assess the effect of interactions among individuals,family, community, and social systems on health andillness3. Record patients’ health and psychosocial histories4. Record comprehensive drug and alcohol use history5. Record physical assessment results, diagnoses, treatmentplans, prescriptions, or outcomes6. Explore relationship of substance use to the functioningof the family7. Identify personal risk and protective factors for thepatient8. Identify family risk and protective factors for the patient9. Identify cultural risk and protective factors for the patient10. Identify environmental risk and protective factors for thepatient11. Identify risk and protective factors related to spiritualityfor the patient12. Identify the adverse consequences (e.g., legal,relationship, occupational, physical) of alcohol and druguse for the patient13. Validate information with patient, other healthcareprofessionals and/or significant othersB. Observe, interview, and assess patients to identify care needs1. Assess degree of risk for alcohol or drug misuse2. Assess degree of risk for relapse3. Assess degree of intoxication for alcohol use byvisualization or field sobriety testing methods4. Assess degree of intoxication for drugs of abuse5. Assess stage of withdrawal for alcohol use6. Assess stage of withdrawal for drugs of abuse7. Assess factors that affect pain management in thepatient with addiction8. Identify behavioral effects of alcohol use9. Identify behavioral effects of drug use10. Recognize early signs and symptoms of alcohol abuse11. Recognize early signs and symptoms of drug abuse12. Recognize acute/chronic effects of alcohol use13. Recognize acute/chronic effects of drug use14. Recognize acute/chronic effects of nicotine15. Identify behavioral effects of impulse control disorders16. Identify associated behaviors of eating disorders17. Assess patient’s readiness for behavioral change18. Assess patient’s health literacyC. Initiate and interpret diagnostic tests and procedures relevant tothe patient’s current status1. Evaluate physiological consequences of substance use2. Utilize screening tools to assess alcohol use3. Utilize screening tools to assess drug use4. Differentiate symptoms related to psychiatric disordersfrom those related to substance abuse5. Differentiate symptoms related to medical conditionsfrom those related to substance abuse6. Utilize standardized instruments for assessment andevaluation2. Diagnosis 12A. Base diagnoses on criteria consistent with accepted classificationsB. Derive and prioritize nursing diagnoses from the assessment datausing complex clinical reasoningC. Actual diagnosisD. Risk diagnosisE. Health promotion diagnosis3. Identifying Outcomes 14A. Identify expected outcomes that incorporate scientific evidenceand are achievable through implementation of evidence-basedpracticesB. Identify expected outcomes that incorporate cost and clinicaleffectiveness, patient satisfaction, and continuity and consistencyamong providersC. Modify plan of care based on changes in patient’s healthcarestatusD. Account for the entire wellness-addictions continuumE. Differentiate outcomes that require care process interventionsfrom those that require system-level interventionsF. Identify assessment strategies, diagnostic strategies, andtherapeutic interventions that reflect current evidence, includingdata, research, literature, and expert clinical knowledgeG. Identify with consideration of the patient’s age, ethnicity andsocioeconomic and environmental circumstances4. Planning of Care 20A. Collaborate with multidisciplinary team in developing treatmentplanB. Tailor treatment plan to accommodate patients’ health needs,beliefs, and practicesC. Include specific interventions with measurable treatment goalsrooted in evidence-based practiceD. Engage the patient and family in the development of thetreatment planE. Integrate gender differences in the development of the treatmentplan4

The Addictions Nursing Certification Board Candidate HandbookF. Integrate ethnic differences in the development of the treatmentplanG. Integrate cultural differences in the development of thetreatment planH. Present plan to patient in understandable termsI. Integrate patient’s readiness for behavioral change in thedevelopment of the treatment planJ. Integrate identified risk and protective factors for the patient andfamily into the development of the treatment planK. Integrate acute and chronic pain management in the treatmentplan5. Implementation of Care 36A. Principles of nursing implementation1. Use systems, organizations, and community resources toimplement the plan2. Use continuous quality improvement principles toimprove patient outcomes3. Collaborate with nursing and other colleagues toimplement the plan4. Utilize best practices in implementation of the plan5. Promote a safe environment for implementation of theplan6. Use therapeutic communication skills to improve patientoutcomes7. Use patient-centered care principles to improve patientoutcomesB. Coordination of care1. Provide care with consideration of patient’s needs anddesired outcomes2. Collaborate with healthcare team to monitor healthconditions of patients3. Lead the coordination of integrated patient care servicesC. Health teaching and health promotion1. Advocate on behalf of the patient/family2. Educate patients and family members about cooccurringmental health, physical health, and addictiondisorders3. Educate patients and family members about preventivehealth measures and self care4. Educate patients and family members about expectedeffects and potential side effects of medications5. Educate patients and family members about relapseprevention6. Utilize motivational enhancement strategies to promotebehavioral change7. Utilize brief interventions to promote behavioral change8. Utilize evidence-based literature to educate patient andfamily about the neurobiological basis of addictions9. Employ learning theory models when designing healthinformation programs# of Items # of Items510. Employ behavioral change theories when designinghealth information programs11. Design health information and patient educationappropriate to the patient’s developmental level12. Design health information and patient educationappropriate to the patient’s readiness to learn13. Design health information and patient educationappropriate to the patient’s cultural values and beliefs14. Evaluate health information resources (e.g., printmaterials, web sites) in the area of practice for accuracy,readability, and comprehensibility to help patientsaccess quality health information15. Provide anticipatory guidance to individuals, families,groups, and communities to promote health and preventor reduce the risk of health problemsD. Provide evidence based education related to:1. Substance use disorders across life span2. Alcohol use3. Drug abuse4. Nicotine use5. Process addictionsE. Provide evidence based education about:1. The risks of alcohol use in pregnancy2. The risks of nicotine use in pregnancy3. The risks of drug use during pregnancy4. The risks of eating disorders in pregnancy5. Risky health behaviors6. Proper nutrition7. The importance of regular exercise8. The biological consequences of substance use9. The psychosocial consequences of substance useF. Consultation1. Facilitate the effectiveness of a consultation by involvingthe patient and significant others in decision-making2. Base consultation on mutual respect and defined roleresponsibilityG. Treatment1. Ensure safe detox2. Offer emotional support to patient3. Provide specialized direct and indirect care to inpatientsand outpatients4. Offer counseling regarding changes in behavior andthinking5. Offer one-to-one counseling for the patient and family6. Establish boundaries in treatment with patients7. Administer medication for management of alcoholwithdrawal symptoms8. Administer medication for management of drugwithdrawal symptoms9. Administer medications to reduce cravings from alcohol10. Monitor patient’s response to medications formanagement of alcohol withdrawal symptoms11. Monitor patient’s response to medications for

The Addictions Nursing Certification Board Candidate Handbook# of Itemsmanagement of drug withdrawal symptoms12. Monitor patient’s response to medications to reducecravings from alcohol13. Initiate treatment based on vital signs and/or laboratoryresults for patients with substance use disorders14. Manage symptoms of concurrent psychiatric disorders inpatients with substance use disorders15. Follow evidence-based protocols to treat patients withaddictions16. Evaluate therapeutic and potential adverse effects ofpharmacological treatments17. Evaluate therapeutic and potential adverse effects ofnon-pharmacological treatmentsH. Psychotherapy and complementary therapy1. Base therapeutic modalities on needs of the patient2. Base therapeutic modalities on current theory, researchand best practices3. Utilize cognitive behavioral strategies to improve patientoutcomesI. Referral1. Ensure continuity of care when making referrals to otherlevels of care2. Refer patients to specific care providers for additionalcare based upon patient needs with consideration forbenefits and costs3. Maintain confidential information in accordance withlegal standards6. Evaluation of Care 10A. Evaluate patient’s and family’s response to interventionsB. Revise diagnoses and plan of care as neededC. Ensure ongoing evaluation involving other care providersTotal 1206

The Addictions Nursing Certification Board Candidate HandbookCARN-AP Content Outline# of Items # of Items1. Assessment 31A. Basic assessment considerations1. Base assessment techniques on theory, research andbest practices2. Assess the effect of interactions among individuals,family, community, and social systems on health andillness3. Record patients’ health and psychosocial histories4. Record comprehensive drug and alcohol use history5. Record physical assessment results, diagnoses, treatmentplans, prescriptions, or outcomes6. Explore relationship of substance use to the functioningof the family7. Identify personal risk and protective factors for thepatient8. Identify family risk and protective factors for the patient9. Identify cultural risk and protective factors for thepatient10. Identify environmental risk and protective factors for thepatient11. Identify genetic risk and protective factors for thepatient12. Identify risk and protective factors related to spiritualityfor the patient13. Identify the adverse consequences (e.g., legal,relationship, occupational, physical) of alcohol and druguse for the patient14. Validate information with patient, other healthcareprofessionals and/or significant othersB. Observe, interview, and assess patients to identify care needs1, Assess degree of risk for alcohol or drug misuse2. Assess degree of risk for relapse3. Assess degree of intoxication for alcohol use byvisualization or field sobriety testing methods4. Assess degree of intoxication for drugs of abuse5. Assess stage of withdrawal for alcohol use6. Assess stage of withdrawal for drugs of abuse7. Assess factors that affect pain management in thepatient with addiction8. Identify behavioral effects of alcohol use9. Identify behavioral effects of drug use10. Recognize early signs and symptoms of alcohol abuse11. Recognize early signs and symptoms of drug abuse12. Recognize acute/chronic effects of alcohol use13. Recognize acute/chronic effects of drug use14. Recognize acute/chronic effects of nicotine15. Identify behavioral effects of impulse control disorders16. Identify associated behaviors of eating disorders17. Assess patient’s readiness for behavioral change18. Assess patient’s health literacy7C. Initiate and interpret diagnostic tests and procedures relevant tothe patient’s current status1. Evaluate physiological consequences of addictivedisorders (e.g., including lab tests)2. Utilize screening tools to assess alcohol use3. Utilize screening tools to assess drug use4. Differentiate symptoms related to psychiatric disordersfrom those related to substance abuse5. Differentiate symptoms related to medical conditionsfrom those related to substance abuse6. Utilize standardized instruments for assessment andevaluation2. Diagnosis 19A. Basic diagnosis considerations1. Base diagnoses on criteria consistent with acceptedclassificationsB. Derive and prioritize nursing diagnoses from the assessment datausing complex clinical reasoning1. Actual diagnosis2. Risk diagnosis3. Health promotion diagnosisC. Formulate differential diagnoses by systematically analyzingclinical and other related findings1. Diagnose alcohol and drug intoxication2. Diagnose withdrawal related to addictions3. Diagnose substance use disorders4. Diagnose substance abuse disorders5. Diagnose substance dependence disorders6. Diagnose process addictions7. Diagnose eating disorders3. Identifying Outcomes 11A. Identify expected outcomes that incorporate scientific evidenceand are achievable through implementation of evidence-basedpracticesB. Identify expected outcomes that incorporate cost andclinical effectiveness, patient satisfaction, and continuity andconsistency among providersC. Modify plan of care based on changes in patient’s healthcarestatusD. Account for the entire wellness-addictions continuumE. Differentiate outcomes that require care process interventionsfrom those that require system-level interventionsF. Identify assessment strategies, diagnostic strategies, andtherapeutic interventions that reflect current evidence, includingdata, research, literature, and expert clinical knowledgeG. Identify with consideration of the patient’s age, ethnicity andsocioeconomic and environmental circumstancesH. Lead the design and development of interprofessional processesto address the identified diagnosis or issue

The Addictions Nursing Certification Board Candidate Handbook# of Items # of Items4. Planning of Care 16A. Collaborate with multidisciplinary team in developing treatmentplanB. Tailor treatment plan to accommodate patients’ health needs,beliefs, and practicesC. Include specific interventions with measurable treatment goalsrooted in evidence-based practiceD. Engage the patient and family in the development of thetreatment planE. Integrate gender differences in the development of the treatmentplanF. Integrate ethnic differences in the development of the treatmentplanG. Integrate cultural differences in the development of thetreatment planH. Integrate genetic differences in the development of the treatmentplanI. Present plan to patient in understandable termsJ. Integrate patient’s readiness for behavioral change in thedevelopment of the treatment planK. Integrate identified risk and protective factors for the patient andfamily into the development of the treatment planL. Integrate acute and chronic pain management in the treatmentplan5. Implementation of Care 31A. Principles of nursing implementation1. Use systems, organizations, and community resources toimplement the plan2. Use continuous quality improvement principles toimprove patient outcomes3. Collaborate with nursing and other colleagues toimplement the plan4. Utilize best practices in implementation of the plan5. Promote a safe environment for implementation of theplan6. Use therapeutic communication skills to improve patientoutcomes7. Use patient-centered care principles to improve patientoutcomesB. Coordination of care1. Provide care with consideration of patient’s needs anddesired outcomes2. Collaborate with healthcare team to monitor healthconditions of patients3. Lead the coordination of integrated patient care servicesC. Health teaching and health promotion1. Advocate on behalf of the patient/family2. Educate patients and family members about cooccurringmental health, physical health, and addictiondisorders83. Educate patients and family members about preventivehealth measures and self care4. Educate patients and family members about expectedeffects and potential side effects of medications5. Educate patients and family members about relapseprevention6. Utilize motivational enhancement strategies to promotebehavioral change7. Utilize brief interventions to promote behavioral change8. Utilize evidence-based literature to educate patient andfamily about the neurobiological basis of addictions9.. Employ learning theory models when designing healthinformation programs10. Employ behavioral change theories when designinghealth information programs11. Incorporate epidemiological evidence when designinghealth information programs12. Design health information and patient educationappropriate to the patient’s developmental level13. Design health information and patient educationappropriate to the patient’s readiness to learn14. Design health information and patient educationappropriate to the patient’s cultural values and beliefs15. Evaluate health information resources (e.g., printmaterials, web sites) in the area of practice for accuracy,readability, and comprehensibility to help patientsaccess quality health information16. Provide anticipatory guidance to individuals, families,groups, and communities to promote health and preventor reduce the risk of health problemsD. Provide evidence based education related to:1. Substance use disorders across life span2. Alcohol use3. Drug abuse4. Nicotine use5. Eating disorders6. Process addictionsE. Provide evidence based education about:1. The risks of alcohol use in pregnancy2. The risks of nicotine use in pregnancy3. The risks of drug use during pregnancy4. The risks of eating disorders in pregnancy5. Risky health behaviors6. Proper nutrition7. The importance of regular exercise8. The biological consequences of substance use9. The psychosocial consequences of substance useF. Consultation1. Synthesize clinical data, theoretical frameworks, andevidence-based practice when providing consultation tohealthcare providers to improve patient outcomes2. Facilitate the effectiveness of a consultation by involvingthe patient and significant others in decision-making

The Addictions Nursing Certification Board Candidate Handbook3. Base consultation on mutual respect and defined roleresponsibilityG. Treatment1. Ensure safe detox2. Offer emotional support to patient3. Provide specialized direct and indirect care to inpatientsand outpatients4. Offer counseling regarding changes in behavior andthinking5. Offer one-to-one counseling for the patient and family6. Establish boundaries in treatment with patients7. Monitor patient’s response to medications formanagement of alcohol withdrawal symptoms8. Monitor patient’s response to medications formanagement of drug withdrawal symptoms9. Monitor patient’s response to medications to reducecravings from alcohol10. Manage medication for alcohol withdrawal symptoms11. Manage medication for drug withdrawal symptoms12. Prescribe medications to reduce cravings from alcohol13. Prescribe medications for pain management for patientwith substance use disorder14. Initiate treatment based on vital signs and/or laboratoryresults for patients with substance use disorders15. Manage symptoms of concurrent psychiatric disorders inpatients with substance use disorders16. Follow evidence-based protocols to treat patients withaddictions17. Initiate evidence-based protocols to treat patients withaddictions18. Evaluate therapeutic and potential adverse effects ofpharmacological treatments19. Evaluate therapeutic and potential adverse effects ofnon-pharmacological treatments20. Provide information about costs and alternativetreatment options and procedures# of Items # of ItemsH. Psychotherapy and complementary therapy1. Base therapeutic modalities on needs of the patient2. Base therapeutic modalities on current theory, researchand best practices3. Work with the patient to identify ongoing psychotherapygoals4. Utilize cognitive behavioral strategies to improve patientoutcomes5. Incorporate complementary and alternative therapyoptions6. Present theory, research and the practice ofcomplementary therapies to patient to ensure informedchoicesI. Referral1. Ensure continuity of care when making referrals to otherlevels of care2. Refer patients to specific care providers for additionalcare based upon patient needs with consideration forbenefits and costs3. Maintain confidential information in accordance withlegal standards6. Evaluation of Care 12A. Evaluate patient’s and family’s response to interventionsB. Revise diagnoses and plan of care as neededC. Ensure ongoing evaluation involving significant othersD. Ensure ongoing evaluation involving other care providersE. Analyze evaluation results to recommend system changesincluding policy, procedure, or protocol revisionTotal 1209

The Addictions Nursing Certification Board Candidate HandbookSample ItemsThe following items are intended to illustrate the formatand style for the examination, which is similar for theCARN and the CARN-AP examinations. Specific contentwill differ for the two examinations. ANCB subject matterexperts approve all items as corresponding to the detailedcontent outline as being appropriate for the respectiveexamination. Some items may be presented as a situationalset, in which a scenario is provided, followed by severalitems pertaining to the scenario.1. A patient has been on a detoxification unit foralcoholism and occasional use of marijuana and cocaine.He is now in small group therapy sessions led by a nurse.On his second meeting, he fidgets in his seat and finallysays, “I’m having difficulty sitting still. Am I botheringsome of you who are here? Maybe I should stop comingto these meetings.” Which of these actions in responseto this patient would be appropriate?A. Encourage him to share his problem with the groupmembers and ask for their help.B. Recognize that this is manipulative behavior andencourage him to remain in the group.C. Remove him from the group and further assess hisneeds.D. Tell him not to concern himself about the groupmembers and to continue in the group.Correct response – A2. A 50 year old is admitted to the detoxification unit forheavy drinking. Orders include oxazepam (Serax) 10mgevery 6 hours prn and diphenhydramine hydrochloride(Benadryl) 50 mg every 6 hours prn. (JCHO will not allow“q” anymore) During the nurse’s initial assessment,which of these questions should take priority?A. Have you been taking any over-the-countermedication?B. Has you ever had a withdrawal seizure?C. When did you have her last drink?D. What has been your usual daily alcoholconsumption?Correct response – C3. Mr. Bruce Mann, who is on the chemical dependencyunit, tells the nurse that he is having cravings forcocaine. In addition to acknowledging the discomfort,the nurse suggests that he exercise at the gym,where various exercise machines are available. Theappropriateness of this decision is based on which ofthese understandings about cocaine addicts?A. They are more comfortable alone.B. They need to be kept mentally occupiedC. They are highly motivated to improve their physique.D. They need outlets for physical tension to reducecraving.Correct response – D4. A drug screen was administered to a patient who lastused cannabis (marijuana) 48 hours ago. The results willmost likely be positive for marijuana. A positive resultwill remain forA. 7 hours.B. 7 days.C. several weeks.D. several months.Correct response – CScheduling an ExaminationAfter receiving approval of your application, you mayschedule your examination by one of the following ways:1. Online Scheduling:• Go to www.goAMP.com at any time and select“Candidates.”• Follow the simple, step-by-step instructions to chooseyour examination and register for the examination.OR2. Telephone Scheduling: Call AMP at 888-519-9901 toschedule an examination appointment. This toll-freenumber is answered from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (CentralTime) Monday through Thursday, 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.on Friday, and 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday.If you contact AMP by3:00 p.m. Central Time on…MondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridayDepending on availability,your examination may bescheduled as early as…WednesdayThursdayFriday/SaturdayMondayTuesday10

The Addictions Nursing Certification Board Candidate HandbookWhen you schedule your examination appointment,be prepared to confirm a location and a preferred dateand time for testing. You will be asked to provide yourunique identification number. When you call or go onlineto schedule your examination appointment, you will benotified of the time to report to the Assessment Center andif an e-mail address is provided you will be sent an e-mailconfirmation notice for your review.If special accommodations are being requested, completethe Request for Special Examination Accommodations formincluded in this <strong>handbook</strong> and submit to AMP at least 45days prior to the desired examination date.Rescheduling or Canceling anExaminationYou may reschedule your appointment ONCE at no chargeby calling AMP at 888-519-9901 at least 2 business daysprior to your scheduled appointment. The followingschedule applies.If the Examination isscheduled on . . .MondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridayMISSED APPOINTMENTS ANDCANCELLATIONSAMP must be contacted by3:00 p.m. Central Time toreschedule the Examinationby the previous . . .WednesdayThursdayFridayMondayTuesdayYou will forfeit your examination registration and allfees paid to take the examination under the followingcircumstances. A new, complete application andexamination fee are required to reapply for examination.• You wish to reschedule an examination but fail to contactAMP at least two business days prior to the scheduledtesting session.• You wish to reschedule a second time.• You appear more than 15 minutes late for anexamination.• You fail to report for an examination appointment.INCLEMENT WEATHER, POWER FAILURE OREMERGENCYIn the event of inclement weather or unforeseenemergencies on the day of an examination, AMP willdetermine whether circumstances warrant the cancellation,and subsequent rescheduling, of an examination. Theexamination will usually not be rescheduled if theAssessment Center personnel are able to open theAssessment Center.You may visit AMP’s website at www.goAMP.com prior tothe examination to determine if AMP has been advised thatany Assessment Centers are closed. Every attempt is madeto administer the examination as scheduled; however,should an examination be canceled at an AssessmentCenter, all scheduled <strong>candidate</strong>s will receive notificationfollowing the examination regarding rescheduling orreapplication procedures.If power to an Assessment Center is temporarily interruptedduring an administration, your examination will berestarted. The responses provided up to the point ofinterruption will be intact, but for security reasons thequestions will be scrambled.Taking the ExaminationYour examination will be given by computer at an AMPAssessment Center. You do not need any computerexperience or typing skills to take your examination. Onthe day of your examination appointment, report to theAssessment Center no later than your scheduled testingtime. IF YOU ARRIVE MORE THAN 15 MINUTES AFTER THESCHEDULED TESTING TIME, YOU WILL NOT BE ADMITTED.IDENTIFICATIONOn the day of your examination appointment, reportto the Assessment Center no later than your scheduledtesting time. Once you arrive at the location, look forsigns indicating AMP Assessment Center check-in. To gainadmission to the assessment center, you must presenttwo forms of identification, one government issued witha current photograph. Both forms of identification mustbe current and include your current name and signature.You will also be required to sign a roster for verification ofidentity.• You MUST bring one of the following: driver’s license withphotograph; state identification card with photograph;passport; military identification card with photograph.11

The Addictions Nursing Certification Board Candidate Handbook• The second form of identification must display yourname and signature for signature verification (e.g., creditcard with signature, social security card with signature,• If your name on these documents is different than itappears on your identification, you must bring proof ofyour name change (e.g., marriage license, divorce decreeor court order).SECURITYAMP administration and security standards are designed toensure all <strong>candidate</strong>s are provided the same opportunityto demonstrate their abilities. The Assessment Center iscontinuously monitored by audio and video surveillanceequipment for security purposes.The following security procedures apply during theexamination:• Examinations are proprietary. No cameras, notes, taperecorders, Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), pagersor cellular phones are allowed in the testing room.Possession of a cellular phone or other electronic devicesis strictly prohibited and will result in dismissal from theexamination.• No calculators are allowed.• No guests, visitors or family members are allowed in thetesting room or reception areas.Personal BelongingsNo personal items, valuables, or weapons should bebrought to the Assessment Center. Only wallets and keysare permitted. Coats must be left outside the testingroom. You will be provided a soft locker to store yourwallet and/or keys with you in the testing room. You willnot have access to these items until after the examinationis completed. Please note the following items will not beallowed in the testing room unless securely locked in thesoft locker.• watches• hatsOnce you have placed everything into the soft locker, youwill be asked to pull out your pockets to ensure they areempty. If all personal items will not fit in the soft locker youwill not be able to test. The site will not store any personalbelongings.If any personal items are observed in the testing room afterthe examination is started, you will be dismissed and theadministration will be forfeited.12EXAMINATION RESTRICTIONS• Pencils will be provided during check-in.• You will be provided with one piece of scratch paper ata time to use during the examination. You must returnthe scratch paper to the supervisor at the completion oftesting, or you will not receive your score report.• No documents or notes of any kind may be removedfrom the Assessment Center.• No questions concerning the content of the examinationmay be asked during the examination.• Eating, drinking or smoking will not be permitted in theAssessment Center.• You may take a break whenever you wish, but you willnot be allowed additional time to make up for time lostduring breaks.MISCONDUCTIf you engage in any of the following conduct during theexamination you may be dismissed, your scores will notbe reported and examination fees will not be refunded.Examples of misconduct are when you:• create a disturbance, are abusive, or otherwiseuncooperative;• display and/or use electronic communicationsequipment such as pagers, cellular phones, PDAs;• talk or participate in conversation with otherexamination <strong>candidate</strong>s;• give or receive help or are suspected of doing so;• leave the Assessment Center during the administration;• attempt to record examination questions or make notes;• attempt to take the examination for someone else;• are observed with personal belongings, or• are observed with notes, books or other aids without itbeing noted on the roster.COPYRIGHTED EXAMINATION QUESTIONSAll examination questions are the copyrighted property ofIntNSA and ANCB. It is forbidden under federal copyrightlaw to copy, reproduce, record, distribute or display theseexamination questions by any means, in whole or in part.Doing so may subject you to severe civil and criminalpenalties.

The Addictions Nursing Certification Board Candidate HandbookComputer loginAfter your identification has been confirmed, you will bedirected to a testing carrel. You will be instructed on-screento enter your identification number. You will take yourphotograph which will remain on screen throughout yourexamination session. This photograph will also print onyour score report.PRACTICE ExaminationPrior to attempting the examination, you will be giventhe opportunity to practice taking an examination on thecomputer. The time you use for this practice examination isNOT counted as part of your examination time or score.When you are comfortable with the computer testingprocess, you may quit the practice session and begin thetimed examination.TIMED EXAMINATIONFollowing the practice examination, you will begin thetimed examination. You will have three hours to completethe examination. Before beginning, instructions for takingthe examination are provided on-screen.A drug screen was administered to a patient who last used cannabis(marijuana) 48 hours ago. The results will most likely be positive formarijuana. A positive result will remain forA. 7 hours.B. 7 days.C. several weeks.D. several months.Candidate’sPictureHereCover Help C ! Time < 1 ▼ > ☞The computer monitors the time you spend on theexamination. The examination will terminate if you exceedthe time allowed. You may click on the “Time” box inthe lower menu bar on the screen or select the Time keyto monitor your time. A digital clock indicates the timeremaining for you to complete the examination. The Timefeature may be turned off during the examination.Only one examination question is presented at a time.The question number appears in the lower right of the13screen. Choices of answers to the examination questionare identified as A, B, C, or D. You must indicate yourchoice by either typing in the letter in the response box inthe lower left portion of the computer screen or clickingon the option using the mouse. To change your answer,enter a different option by pressing the A, B, C, or D keyor by clicking on the option using the mouse. You maychange your answer as many times as you wish during theexamination time limit.To move to the next question, click on the forward arrow(>) in the lower right portion of the screen or select theNEXT key. This action will move you forward through theexamination question by question. If you wish to reviewany question or questions, click the backward arrow (

The Addictions Nursing Certification Board Candidate HandbookSCORING OF EXAMINATIONSThe items on your examination have been subjectedto a pretest period in which they were presented onprevious examination forms as unscored items to allowfor <strong>candidate</strong>s to provide responses to each item withoutaffecting their examination results. After a sufficientnumber of <strong>candidate</strong> responses to these items aregathered, they are reviewed based on statistical analysesand <strong>candidate</strong> comments regarding item content to assureitem validity before being placed into scored positions onany current examination form. Also, data acquired duringinitial examination administrations, along with expertratings of individual examination item difficulty, wereused by ANCB to set a cut score for the examination (formore information, see the FAQ). This process allows allcurrent examination forms to be immediately scored, andscore reports to be released on site immediately followingexamination administration.SCORES CANCELLED BY ANCB OR AMPAMP is responsible for the validity and integrity of thescores they report. On occasion, occurrences, such ascomputer malfunction or misconduct by a <strong>candidate</strong>,may cause a score to be suspect. ANCB and AMP reservethe right to void or withhold examination results if, uponinvestigation, violation of its regulations is discovered.IF YOU PASS THE EXAMINATIONIf you pass the examination, you will receive a certificateattesting to the attainment of certification and will beable to use the designation earned (CARN or CARN-AP) toindicate certification status. Certification is awarded for aperiod of four (4) years, contingent upon maintenance offull and unrestricted license as an RN.IF YOU DO NOT PASS THE EXAMINATIONUnsuccessful <strong>candidate</strong>s who wish to retake theexamination must reapply and remit all applicable fees anddocumentation. You may retake the examination as manytimes as you wish.FAILING TO REPORT FOR AN EXAMINATIONIf you fail to report for an examination, you will forfeitthe registration and all fees paid to take the examination.A completed application form and examination fee arerequired to reapply for examination.QUESTIONSRefer to the website for a list of Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs) and answers. Other questions about any aspect ofthe ANCB Certification Program are welcome at any time.ANCB is committed to providing complete and accurateresponses in a timely manner, but those asking questionsshould recognize that preparation of some responsesmay take longer than others. Some questions may beappropriately asked by phone, but in some cases youmay be asked to pose your question in writing and sendit to ANCB by email or by regular mail. Questions may bedirected to:APPEALSANCB CERTIFICATION PROGRAMAddictions <strong>Nurses</strong> Certification BoardP.O. Box 14846Lenexa, KS 66285Email: intnsa@intnsa.orgPhone: 913-895-4622Fax: 913-895-4652An appeals process is available to certification <strong>candidate</strong>s.A letter of appeal, detailing the issues should be directed toANCB.CONFIDENTIALITYInformation about <strong>candidate</strong>s for testing and theirexamination results are considered confidential. Studiesand reports concerning <strong>candidate</strong>s will contain noinformation identifiable with any <strong>candidate</strong>, unlessauthorized by the <strong>candidate</strong>.DUPLICATE SCORE REPORTYou may purchase additional copies of your results at acost of $25 per copy. Requests must be submitted to AMP,in writing. The request must include your name, identificationnumber, mailing address, telephone number, date ofexamination and examination taken. Submit this informationwith the required fee payable to AMP in the form of amoney order or cashier’s check. Duplicate score reports willbe mailed within approximately two weeks after receipt ofthe request and fee. Requests must be submitted withinone year of your examination to be processed.14

The Addictions Nursing Certification Board Candidate HandbookCERTIFICATION RENEWAL PROGRAMSuccessful <strong>candidate</strong>s will receive a certificate attestingto the attainment of certification and will be able to usethe designation earned (CARN or CARN-AP) to indicatecertification status. Certification is awarded for a periodof four (4) years, contingent upon maintenance of full andunrestricted license as an RN.The certified nurse will be able to renew certification statusby:a. Meeting stated eligibility requirements for certification.b. Submitting completed application form forrecertification and payment of all applicable fees.c. Meeting ONE of the following requirements:1. Successfully passing the certification examination.2. Meeting stated requirements for recertification.It is the responsibility of the applicant to notify ANCB ofany address changes so that renewal notices are sent to thecorrect address and to contact ANCB if the renewal notice isnot received. Failure to receive the renewal notice does notrelieve the CARN of the responsibility to apply for certificationrenewal. Questions related to the certification program,including questions about recertification procedures,should be directed to ANCB at the following address:ANCB CERTIFICATION PROGRAMAddictions <strong>Nurses</strong> Certification BoardP.O. Box 14846Lenexa, KS 66285Phone: (913) 895-4622Fax: (913) 895-4652SUGGESTED REFERENCES FOREXAMINATION PREPARATIONThis list includes materials used as references for thecertification examinations. It is not meant to be anexhaustive bibliography for the examination but rather away of giving you an idea of the examination content.Study materials developed by the <strong>International</strong> <strong>Nurses</strong> <strong>Society</strong>on Addictions may be purchased. For available materials,contact IntNSA at http://www.intnsa.org.Allen, K.M. (1996). Nursing Care of the Addicted Client.Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott. American <strong>Nurses</strong> Association& <strong>International</strong> <strong>Nurses</strong> <strong>Society</strong> on Addictions (2004).Scope and Standards of Addictions Nursing Practice.Silver Springs, MD: <strong>Nurses</strong> books. (Available athttp://www.nursingworld.org, Pub# 04SSAN)American Psychiatric Association (1994). Diagnostic andStatistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th Edition.15Barthwell, A.G. (1994). How nicotine works. In Lewis, J.A.(Ed.) Addictions: Concepts and Strategies for Treatment.Gaithersburg, MD: Aspen Publishers, Inc., pp. 193-207.Boyd, M.A. & Nihart, M.A. (1998). Psychiatric Nursing:Contemporary Practice. Philadelphia: Lippincott.Fitzpatrick, J., Stevenson, J., & Sommers, M. (2005). AnnualReview of Nursing Research, Vol. 23: Alcohol Use, Misuse,Abuse, and Dependence. NY: Springer.Friedman, M.M., Bowden, V.R., & Jones, E.G. (2004). FamilyNursing: Research, Theory & Practice (5th Ed.). Upper SaddleRiver, NJ: Prentice-Hall.<strong>International</strong> <strong>Nurses</strong> <strong>Society</strong> on Addictions (2006). The CoreCurriculum of Addiction Nursing, 2nd Edition. Raleigh, NC:Author. (Available at http://www.intnsa.org).Jack, L. (Ed.) (2002). Study Guide for the CARN Exam. Raleigh,NC: <strong>International</strong> <strong>Nurses</strong> <strong>Society</strong> on Addictions. (Availableat http://www.intnsa.org).Keltner, N.L., & Folks, D.G. (2001). Psychotropic Drugs, 3rdEdition. St. Louis: Mosby.Kerr, M.E., & Bowen, M. (1988). Family Evaluation: Anapproach based on Bowen Theory. New York: WW Norton& Company.McBee, S. & Rogers, J. (1997). Identifying risk factors for gayand lesbian suicidal behavior: Implications for mentalhealth counselors. Journal of Mental Health Counseling,19(2):143-156.Naegle, M.A., & D’Avanzo, C.E. (2001). Addictions andSubstance Abuse: Strategies for Advanced Practice Nursing.Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice-Hall.Polit, D.F., & Hungler, B.P. (1998). Nursing Research: Principlesand Methods, 6th Edition. Philadelphia: Lippincott.Rasmussen, S. (2000). Addiction Treatment: Theory andPractice. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.Shea, C.A., Pelletier, L.R., Poster, E.C., Stuart, S.W., & Verhey,M.P. (1999). Advanced Practice Nursing in Psychiatric andMental Health Care. St. Louis: Mosby. Sullivan, E. (1995).Nursing Care of Clients with Substance Abuse. St. Louis:Mosby.Treatment Improvement Protocol Series (TIPSs). Publishedby US Department of HHS, PHS, Substance Abuseand Mental Health Service Administration, Center forSubstance Abuse Treatment. Rockville, MD. (Also availableonline at http://www.samhsa.gov/index.htm).Titleman, P. (Ed.). (1999). Clinical Applications of Bowen FamilySystems Theory. New York: The Haworth Press, Inc.U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (2000). TenthSpecial Report to the U.S. Congress on Alcohol and Health.Rockville, MD: National Institutes of Health. Available athttp://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/10report/intro.pdf.Varcarolis, E. (2002). Foundations of Psychiatric-Mental HealthNursing, 4th Edition. Philadelphia: W.B. Saunders.Wilson, B.A., Shannon, M.T., & Stang, C.L. (2000). <strong>Nurses</strong> DrugGuide 2000. Stamford, CT: Appleton & Lange.Wright, L., & Leahey, M. (1999). <strong>Nurses</strong> and Families: AGuide to Family Assessment and Intervention, 3rd Edition.Philadelphia: F.A. Davis.

The Addictions Nursing Certification Board Candidate HandbookChecklist for CARN Application Completed and signed application form (printed withblack ink or typed). (page 17) Clear photocopy of current RN license or copy ofverification from Board of Nursing website showingexpiration date. Signed Verification of Experience in Nursing Related toAddictions Form(s) confirming 2000 hours (1 year) ofaddictions nursing practice. (page 19) Evidence of 30 hours of continuing education related toaddictions nursing in the past three (3) years. Fee for the certification examination: (Money orderor check made payable to Addiction NursingCertification Board (ANCB). Please note ‘CARNexamination’ in the memo section of the check.) $195.00 – IntNSA Member $335.00 – New-IntNSA Member (includes one yearmembership to IntNSA) $395.00 – Non-IntNSA Member $25.00 – Late Fee, if applicableChecklist for CARN-AP Application Completed and signed application form (Printed withblack ink or typed). (page 17) Clear photocopy of current RN license or copy ofverification from Board of Nursing website showingexpiration date. Copy of transcript verifying master’s degree in nursing. Evidence of 500 hours of supervised direct patient/client contact in advanced clinical practice related toaddictions. (page 20) Verification forms signed by a faculty preceptorto verify the hours of supervised clinical practiceincluded in the master’s program, OR Copy of transcript from the master’s programverifying the hours of supervised clinical practice. Fee for the certification examination: (Money orderor check made payable to Addiction NursingCertification Board (ANCB). Please note ‘CARN-APexamination’ in the memo section of the check.) $295.00 – IntNSA Member $435.00 – New-IntNSA Member $495.00 – Non-IntNSA Member $25.00 – Late Fee, if applicable16

ADDICTIONS NURSING CERTIFICATION EXAMINATION APPLICATIONComplete all sections of this application and submit with payment by mail to:AMP, Attn: ANCB Examination Processing, 18000 W. 105th St., Olathe, KS 66061-7543ANCB Handbook, page 17Last Name first Name MI Other Name UsedStreet Address or PO BoxCity State Zip Code CountryHome Phone Number Work Phone Number Cell NumberE-mail AddressRN License:State: _________________________________________________Permanent Number: ___________________________________Date of Original License: __________________________________ Expiration Date: _______________________________________Testing Period: May 1-15 October 1-15• Application receipt deadline April 1 • Application receipt deadline September 1• Late application receipt deadline April 8* • Late application receipt deadline September 8*I am applying for the following exam and IntNSA membership status:CARNCARN-AP Member ................................$195 Member ....................................$295 New Member ...........................$335 New Member ...............................$435 Non-Member ...........................$395 Non-Member ...............................$495 *Late Fee (if applicable) ..................$25 *Late Fee (if applicable) ......................$25Acceptable forms of payment include personal check, money order, cashier check and credit card. Please make checks payable to IntNSA inU.S. Currency via a U.S. bank. IntNSA Tax ID #: 36-3273621If paying by credit card, please provide the following: VISA MasterCard American Express DiscoverCredit Card Account NumberExpiration Date (Month/Year)Please print your name as it appears on the credit card.SignatureDateDenial, Suspension, or Revocation of Certification. The occurrence of any of the following actions will result in the denial, suspension, orrevocation of Addictions Nursing Certification: (1) falsification of the CARN application; (2) falsification of any material information requestedby the ANCB; (3) any restrictions such as revocation, suspension, probation, or other sanctions of professional RN license by nursing authority; (4)misrepresentation of CARN status; (5) cheating on the CARN examination.STATEMENT OF UNDERSTANDINGI hereby attest that I have read and understand the Addictions Nursing Certification Board’s policy on Denial, Suspension, or Revocation ofCertification and that its terms shall be binding on all applicants for certification and all certified addictions nurses for the duration of theircertification. I hereby apply for certification offered by the Addictions Nursing Certification Board (ANCB). I understand that certification dependsupon successful completion of the specified requirements. I further understand that the information accrued in the certification process maybe used for statistical purposes and for evaluation of the certification program. I further understand that the information from my certificationrecords shall be held in confidence and shall not be used for any other purpose without my permission. To the best of my knowledge, theinformation contained in this application is true, complete, correct, and is made in good faith. I understand that the ANCB reserves the right toverify any or all information on this application.Signature: ____________________________________________________________ Date: _____________________________________________

ANCB Handbook, page 18ADDICTIONS NURSING CERTIFICATION EXAMINATION APPLICATIONDATA FORM FOR CARN AND CARN-AP EXAMINATION APPLICATIONPlease complete the following items to provide important research data to the Addictions Nursing Certification Board. The information will behandled anonymously and will be used only for research to assist in the assessment of test validity.Check your current position: 1 Administrator 2 Manager 3 Supervisor 4 Clinical Nurse Specialist 5 Researcher 6 Other 7 Educator 8 Staff NurseCheck the primary client problem(s) withwhich you work (at least 25% of yourworking hours): 1 Alcohol/Drug Addictions 2 Dual Diagnosis 3 Infectious Diseases 4 Eating Disorders 5 Gambling Addictions 6 General Addictions 7 Sexual Addictions 8 Codependency/FamilyHighest level of education completed: 1 Diploma 2 Bachelor’s Degree-Nursing 3 Master’s Degree-Nursing 4 Associate Degree-Nursing 5 Bachelor’s Degree-Other 6 Master’s Degree-Other 7 Associate Degree-Other 8 Doctorate-Nursing 9 Doctorate-OtherGender: 1 Male 2 FemaleEthnic Category: 1 Hispanic or Latino 2 Not Hispanic or LatinoRacial Category: 1 American Indian/Alaska Native 2 Asian 3 Black or African American 4 Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander 5 WhiteYears of experience as an RN: 1 0-5 years 2 6-10 years 3 11-15 years 4 16-20 years 5 21-25 years 6 26-30 years 7 31-35 years 8 36-40 years 9 41-45 years 10 46-50 years 11 51+ yearsYears of experience as an RN in addictionsnursing: 1 0-5 years 2 6-10 years 3 11-15 years 4 16-20 years 5 21-25 years 6 26-30 years 7 31-35 years 8 36-40 years 9 41-45 years 10 46-50 years 11 51+ yearsCheck your current practice setting: 1 General Hospital 2 Addictions specialty hospital/unit 3 Educational Institution 4 Private Practice 5 Free-standing Facility 6 Detoxification Unit 7 Substitution Clinic (e.g. MethadoneMaintenance Clinic) 8 Community Agency 9 Other 10 Not currently employedWhich of the following describes the ages ofmost of your clients? (Select all that apply.) 1 Newborns 2 Infants/Children 3 Adolescents (age 12-21) 4 Adults (age 22-65) 5 Older Adults (age 65 and above)What hours do you usually work? 1 Days 2 Evenings 3 Nights 4 OtherHow many years have you been working inyour current position? 1 Less than one year 2 1 to 3 years 3 4 to 6 years 4 7 to 10 years 5 More than 10 yearsHow did you hear about the certificationexamination? 1 Nursing journal 2 IntNSA Newsletter 3 World Wide Web – www.intnsa.org 4 World Wide Web – Other 5 Employer 6 Nursing Colleague 7 Marketing 8 OtherAre you currently certified in any otherspecialty? 1 No 2 YesPlease indicate current professionalmembership(s): 1 <strong>International</strong> <strong>Nurses</strong> <strong>Society</strong> onAddictions (IntNSA) 2 State <strong>Nurses</strong> Association 3 National League of Nursing 4 Sigma Theta Tau <strong>International</strong> 5 Other

ADDICTIONS NURSING CERTIFICATION EXAMINATION APPLICATIONVERIFICATION OF EXPERIENCE IN NURSING RELATED TO ADDICTIONSFOR CARNANCB Handbook, page 19______________________________________________________ is applying to take the Addictions Nursing Certification Examination(CARN examination) sponsored by the Addictions Nursing Certification Board. As part of the application process, the applicant mustprovide verification of a minimum of 2000 hours (1 year) of nursing experience related to addictions, within the three years prior to theapplication, as a Registered Nurse in a staff, administrative, teaching, consultation, private practice, counseling or research capacity.This form is to be completed by the applicant’s supervisor(s) who must complete, sign, and return it to the applicant. If your required hoursare with more than one employer you must have additional forms filled out. All application materials, including supervisor verificationform(s), should be sent with the application.______________________________________________________ has had experience in nursing related to addictionsApplicant’s Nametotaling __________ hours, in the following capacity ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Dates of experience: From________________________________________ to________________________________________________Month Year Month YearPractice Setting: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________City State ZipI further attest that _______________________________________________________________________________________________Applicant’s Nameis currently licensed as a registered nurse in the state of _________________________________________________________________ .Supervisor’s SignatureDateSupervisor Contact Information:Name_____________________________________________________ Title___________________________________________________Contact Number_________________________________ Email Address______________________________________________________Note: Please photocopy this form if additional forms are needed for verification by more than one supervisor.

ANCB Handbook, page 20ADDICTIONS NURSING CERTIFICATION EXAMINATION APPLICATIONVERIFICATION OF SUPERVISED ADVANCED-PRACTICE NURSING EXPERIENCE RELATED TO ADDICTIONSFOR CARN-AP______________________________________________________ is applying to take the Addictions Nursing CertificationExamination for Advanced Practice sponsored by the Addictions Nursing Certification Board. As part of the application process,the <strong>candidate</strong> must provide verification of a minimum of 500 hours of supervised direct patient/client contact in advanced clinicalpractice related to addictions. If the master’s program does not include at least 500 hours of supervised clinical practice, thedifference in hours must be completed after the master’s degree is conferred, before the <strong>candidate</strong> can be deemed eligible to sitfor the examination.This form is to be completed by the applicant’s supervisor(s) who should complete and sign the form and return it to the<strong>candidate</strong>. If your required hours are with more than one employer you must have additional forms filled. All application materials,including supervisor verification form(s), should be sent with the application.______________________________________________________has had __________hours of supervised direct patient/clientApplicant’s Namecontact in advanced clinical practice in the area of addictions/psychiatric/mental health nursing during the master’s program following completion of the master’s program.Dates of experience: From________________________________________ to________________________________________________Month Year Month YearPractice Setting: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________City State ZipPlease indicate the type of supervision provided: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Supervisor’s SignatureDateSupervisor Contact Information:Name_____________________________________________________ Title___________________________________________________Contact Number_________________________________ Email Address______________________________________________________Note: Please photocopy this form if additional forms are needed for verification by more than one supervisor.

ADDICTIONS NURSING CERTIFICATION EXAMINATION APPLICATIONANCB Handbook, page 21VERIFICATION OF 30 HOURS OF CONTINUING EDUCATION IN ADDICTIONS NURSING FOR CARNThe applicant must provide verification of a minimum of 30 hours of continuing education related to addictions nursing. Theseeducational units must have occurred within the last three (3) years. The completed form attesting to the 30 hours of continuingeducation in addictions nursing must be returned with the certification application. If necessary, please use additional copies of thisform.Please print or type and avoid using abbreviations.(1)Sponsor (includingprovider no., ifapplicable)(2)Date(s) of program(3)Type of program(4)Title of program(5)Explain programapplicability toaddictionsnursing practice(6)Total numberof contacthours (points)Minimum number of points accepted is 30.1 contact hour (50-60 minutes) = 1 point.AMPANCB Certification Processing18000 W. 105th St.Olathe, KS 66061

ANCB Handbook, page 22

ANCB Handbook, page 23Request for Special Examination AccommodationsIf you have a disability covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act, please complete this form and the Documentation of Disability-Related Needs on the reverse side so your accommodations for testing can be processed efficiently. The information you provide andany documentation regarding your disability and your need for accommodation in testing will be treated with strict confidentiality.Candidate InformationCandidate ID # ______________________Requested Assessment Center:______________________Name (Last, First, Middle Initial, Former Name)Mailing AddressCity State Zip CodeDaytime Telephone NumberSpecial AccommodationsI request special accommodations for the ____________________________________________________________ examination.Please provide (check all that apply):______ Reader______ Extended testing time (time and a half)______ Reduced distraction environment______ Please specify below if other special accommodations are needed.___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Comments:_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________PLEASE READ AND SIGN:I give my permission for my diagnosing professional to discuss with AMP staff my records and history as they relate to the requestedaccommodation.Signature:________________________________________________________________ Date:__________________________________Mail or fax this form to AMP at:Examination Services, AMP, 18000 W. 105th St., Olathe, KS 66061-7543, Fax 913-895-4650.If you have questions, call the Candidate Support Center at 888-519-9901.

ANCB Handbook, page 24Documentation of Disability-Related NeedsPlease have this section completed by an appropriate professional (education professional, physician, psychologist,psychiatrist) to ensure that AMP is able to provide the required accommodations.Professional DocumentationI have known ________________________________________________________ since _____ / _____ / _____ in my capacity as aCandidate NameDate_______________________________________________________________________.My Professional TitleThe <strong>candidate</strong> discussed with me the nature of the test to be administered. It is my opinion that, because of this <strong>candidate</strong>’s disabilitydescribed below, he/she should be accommodated by providing the special arrangements listed on the reverse side.Description of Disability:__________________________________________________________________________________________Signed:__________________________________________________________ Title:_________________________________________Printed Name:___________________________________________________________________________________________________Address:_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Telephone Number:__________________________________ E-mail Address:______________________________________________Date:______________________________________________ License # (if applicable):_______________________________________Mail or fax this form to AMP at:Examination Services, AMP, 18000 W. 105th St., Olathe, KS 66061-7543, Fax 913-895-4650.If you have questions, call the Candidate Support Center at 888-519-9901.