SCRN study guide
SCRN · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The Stroke Certified Registered Nurse (SCRN) credential is a specialty nursing certification awarded by the American Board of Neuroscience Nursing (ABNN) to registered nurses who demonstrate knowledge of stroke nursing fundamentals. It is built for RNs who care for stroke patients across the whole continuum - hyperacute, acute, post-acute, and secondary and preventative care - in settings such as stroke units, emergency departments, neuroscience ICUs, and inpatient rehabilitation. The SCRN study guide has 6 sections and about 1,858 words.
01Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathophysiology of Stroke
Anterior circulation comes from the internal carotid artery, which gives off the ophthalmic, posterior communicating, and anterior choroidal branches before dividing into the middle cerebral artery (MCA) and anterior cerebral artery (ACA). Posterior circulation runs from the vertebral arteries into the basilar artery, supplying the brainstem, cerebellum, and posterior cerebral arteries (PCA).
328 words, about 2 min02Stroke Assessment and Diagnosis
Eleven items, maximum 42 points, covering level of consciousness (1a-1c), gaze, visual fields, facial palsy, arm and leg motor function, limb ataxia, sensation, language, dysarthria, and extinction/inattention. Score what the patient actually does, not what you think they can do.
309 words, about 2 min03Hyperacute and Acute Stroke Management
IV alteplase (0.9 mg/kg, max 90 mg; 10% bolus over one minute, remainder over 60 minutes) is approved within 4.5 hours of last known well; tenecteplase 0.25 mg/kg as a single bolus is an accepted alternative at many centers. Endovascular thrombectomy is standard for anterior large-vessel occlusion up to 6 hours, and up to 24 hours in selected patients with favorable imaging (DAWN/DEFUSE-3 criteria).
325 words, about 2 min04Post-Acute Care and Rehabilitation
Priorities are airway and swallowing safety, mobilization, prophylaxis, and complication surveillance. Screen swallowing with a validated tool before any oral intake, including medications.
284 words, about 1 min05Secondary Prevention and Risk Factor Management
Noncardioembolic ischemic stroke: aspirin 81-325 mg, clopidogrel, or extended-release dipyridamole plus aspirin. For minor stroke (NIHSS 3 or less) or high-risk TIA, dual antiplatelet therapy with aspirin plus clopidogrel for 21-90 days reduces early recurrence, then transition to single therapy.
293 words, about 1 min06Psychosocial, Ethical, and Care Coordination Issues
Post-stroke depression affects roughly a third of survivors, can appear early or months later, and impairs rehabilitation participation. Screen with a validated tool (PHQ-9 or similar) rather than relying on impression.
319 words, about 2 min