Self-Assessment Exercises (SAEs)

PNCB SAEs are self-paced, independent study tools that offer CE. Upon successful completion of an SAE, you receive a pass/fail score report, an emailed Feedback Report (critiques) with in-depth explanations of all right and wrong answers, and NAPNAP accredited contact hours.

Are SAEs required for my Recert?

Yes. See your certification type for details:

CPN • Primary Care CPNP • Acute Care CPNP • Dually-certified CPNP

When in a 7-year tracking cycle should I take an SAE?

You'll choose when in each of your 7-year tracking cycles to take required SAEs.

Can I take SAEs multiple times in a 7-year cycle?

Yes. As long as you do not repeat a particular year's SAE, you can take more than are required.

When do I get the SAE? When is it due?

When you select this option for Recertification, you're making a commitment to complete the SAE by May 15th, after Recert enrollment is over. Here's how it works:

• You select the SAE option between October 1 and February 1.
• We begin mailing SAEs in November, depending on when you place your order.
• You'll have until May 15, 2010 (postmark date) to return your answer paper sheet to us -OR -
• You'll have until May 15, 2010 to complete your answers online (online answer method).
• If you miss this due date, you may still return your answer sheet along with a $50 late fee (paper answer sheet) or receive an extension using a special link (online answer method).
• You receive immediate results with online answering. Paper answer sheets are scored as they are received. Allow 4 weeks for us to process your score reports, answer/critique booklets, and CE certificates for those using the paper answer sheet method.

How does the Online Answer Method work?

See our in-depth FAQ sheet for detailed information on this easy way to complete your SAE.

How do I pass?

You must return the answer sheet for scoring or complete the SAE online, depending on the answer method you selected, and receive a minimum score of 70% or more in order to meet the annual Recertification Program requirement.

A certificate of continuing education is emailed along with a Feedback Report (critiques) with explanations for all right and wrong answers.

What if I don't pass?

Participants who fail to achieve a passing SAE score (70%) will be given an additional opportunity to successfully complete their SAE option with a free online retest. Detailed information will be provided to those who need to retest.

What if I have a question about an item on the SAE?

We offer an SAE Updates web page to address issues concerning test items. You can visit this webpage to see if your question is discussed there. If not, please email us at sae@pncb.org for assistance.

Item writers and Test Committee members are volunteers of the PNCB. There are no conflicts of interest to report. Conflict of Interest forms for SAE contributors can be accessed through the PNCB offices. List of current SAE contributors.