What does CARN mean in NURSING

A Certified Addictions Registered Nurse (CARN) is a type of registered nurse who specializes in the care of patients with addictions and substance use disorders. CARNs have specialized training in evidence-based treatment for addiction, delivering nursing interventions to meet the mental health and physical needs of their patients.

To become a CARN, you must first obtain a state issued license to practice as a registered nurse and then successfully complete an approved certification program in addictions nursing which includes clinical experience related to addictions. In addition, applicants must pass an exam demonstrating key competencies in recognizing, treating, counseling, and educating those affected by substance use.

A CARN specializes in providing education on addiction identification and diagnosis; prevention; treatment planning; medication assisted treatment (MAT); recovery support services; harm reduction strategies; psychosocial assessment and coping strategies; as well as case management services for clients with various addiction issues. They are knowledgeable about legal considerations related to providing care for individuals with addiction.

Information about becoming a CARN can be found on many websites such as The International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium for Substance Abuse Counseling (IC&RC), National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC), National Council for Behavioral Health (NCBH). Additionally, prospective students can also contact their local nursing programs or credentialing organizations such as American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry (AAAP).

Yes. All certifications require continuing education units in order to maintain certification status. For instance, the ANCC requires 30 CEUs every three years while IC&RC mandates 40 CEUs over two years.

You will learn skills specific to the field of addictions such as proper assessments, diagnosis, treatment planning, interpersonal communication techniques, ethical decision-making regarding professional practice issues pertaining to substance use disorders , advanced knowledge of pharmacology related to addictive medications or substances , legal considerations when caring for addicted persons and cultural sensitivity when working with diverse populations suffering from substance use disorders.

After obtaining your certification you may work in any number of settings including but not limited to hospitals, prisons, private practices or community health centers where you could provide patient care services tailored specifically around individuals suffering from addictive behaviors or processes. Additionally depending on your employer/location you may also qualify for supervisory roles which provide oversight and guidance for other nurses working within the same practice.