CCRN Neonatal study plan

Map the fetal-to-neonatal circulatory transition and label shunt pathways on a blank diagram from memory

Differentiate ductal-dependent systemic and ductal-dependent pulmonary lesions and state the immediate stabilization priority for each

Calculate and interpret a pre/post-ductal SpO2 gradient and an oxygen saturation index in a congenital heart defect scenario

Identify the 4 defining features of shock in a neonate and rank the sequence of interventions for each type

Interpret neonatal ECG tracings for rate, axis, and QT interval and distinguish normal newborn findings from pathologic ones

Outline post-operative management priorities for a neonate after cardiac surgery, including fluid, pain, and shunt monitoring

Explain indications, dosing ranges, and adverse effects of prostaglandin E1 and name the side effects requiring immediate action

Describe the bedside nurse's role in monitoring for arrhythmias during central line placement and medication infusion

Compare the pathophysiology and ventilator strategies of RDS, TTN, MAS, and pneumonia

Interpret arterial and capillary blood gases using a stepwise approach and state a corrective action for each acid-base pattern

Describe surfactant administration technique, positioning, and expected response monitoring

Differentiate the clinical presentation and initial management of pneumothorax, PIE, and pulmonary hemorrhage

Explain indications for and nursing monitoring during HFOV, iNO, and ECMO in a neonate

Sequence the steps of neonatal resuscitation and apply them to a meconium-stained and a preterm delivery scenario

Distinguish apnea of prematurity, AOP with bradycardia, and obstructive apnea and match each to a pharmacologic plan

List the indications, target ranges, and toxicity monitoring for oxygen therapy in a preterm infant

Describe nursing actions for a neonate with a tracheostomy or on chronic mechanical ventilation at discharge planning

Differentiate the causes and treatments of hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, and hypocalcemia in the neonate

Outline the management of hyperbilirubinemia including phototherapy thresholds, exchange transfusion criteria, and rebound monitoring

Describe the pathophysiology, feeding progression, and complication surveillance for necrotizing enterocolitis

Explain fluid and electrolyte management in the extremely low birth weight infant, including insensible losses

List assessment findings that differentiate renal failure, SIADH, and acute tubular necrosis in a neonate

Perform and document a modified neonatal neurologic exam including tone, reflexes, and level of alertness

Differentiate the presentation and management of IVH grades, HIE, and neonatal seizures

Describe therapeutic hypothermia criteria, phases, and nursing monitoring during and after cooling

Explain developmental care principles and how to modify caregiving for a neurologically fragile infant

Identify the neonatal nurse's role in supporting parental attachment, grief, and family coping in the NICU

Integrate assessment findings across systems to recognize sepsis, septic shock, and multisystem organ failure early

Describe the pharmacokinetics of commonly used neonatal antibiotics and the monitoring required during therapy

Explain the elements of informed consent, surrogate decision-making, and confidentiality as applied in the NICU

Distinguish the roles of the nurse in advocacy, ethics committees, and conflict resolution around goals of care

Review safe medication administration practices including high-alert drugs and double-check requirements

Re-test every previously missed question and state the corrected reasoning aloud

Complete two full-length timed practice exams and score each by domain

Compile a personal weak-topic list and close the top 10 gaps

Rehearse a structured approach to prioritization and delegation items

Build a test-day plan covering timing, flagging strategy, and anxiety management