Progressive Care Unit (PCU) credential is designed to recognize nurses who demonstrate proficiency in the specialized care of acutely ill cardiopulmonary patients. The critical care often required in the PCU requires the professional candidate to demonstrate competency in the areas of patient assessment, diagnosis, communication, patient safety, and quality care.
In order to obtain the PCU credential, nurses must take and pass a proctored exam. The credential provides evidence of professional commitment and mastery of the core concepts suggested by the American Association of Critical Care Nurses. In addition, individuals who complete this credential are expected to be able to recognize early signs of an emergent medical condition and to develop and implement a plan of care for priority vessels. The PCU credential validates the knowledge and competency of nurses working in the quickly-evolving PCU environment and helps them better provide the highest quality of care for patients.