The CRNI (Certified Registered Nurse Infusion) credential is awarded by INS (Infusion Nurses Society) and validates expertise in vascular access, infusion therapy, and patient safety across all care settings. The certification exam is comprehensive — covering everything from peripheral IV insertion to tunneled port management and parenteral nutrition. This free CRNI practice test PDF gives you printable exam-style questions you can study anywhere, review on paper, and use to identify the content areas that need the most attention before test day.
A large portion of the exam focuses on VAD selection based on therapy duration, osmolarity, and patient condition. Know the criteria for peripheral IV (PIV) vs. midline vs. PICC vs. tunneled CVC vs. implanted port vs. non-tunneled CVC. Tip placement verification via chest X-ray (cavoatrial junction) is required for central lines before any infusion. Understand optimal site selection, vein assessment, and the relationship between catheter gauge and infusion rate.
Differentiate infiltration (non-vesicant fluid in surrounding tissue) from extravasation (vesicant or irritant drug leakage requiring immediate intervention). Know the INS phlebitis grading scale (0–4) and interventions at each grade. CLABSI prevention is high-yield: maximal sterile barrier precautions, chlorhexidine gluconate skin antisepsis, proper needleless connector scrub technique ("scrub the hub"), and evidence-based dressing change schedules.
Understand the osmolarity thresholds that dictate central vs. peripheral administration (solutions above 900 mOsm/L require central access). Review the pH ranges of common IV medications and their compatibility with standard diluents. High-alert medications tested include vesicant chemotherapy agents, concentrated potassium and sodium solutions, insulin drips (titration, hypoglycemia monitoring), and anticoagulants.
Know the macronutrient components of TPN (dextrose, amino acids, lipid emulsions), caloric calculations, and administration considerations. Central PN must be infused via a dedicated central line lumen. Monitor for metabolic complications: hyperglycemia, refeeding syndrome (hypophosphatemia), hypertriglyceridemia with lipid emulsions, and CLABSI risk with PN. Understand the role of the pharmacist and dietitian in the PN prescribing team.
Children require weight-based volume calculations, smaller catheter gauges, and age-appropriate developmental communication. Scalp veins may be used in neonates. Extravasation risk is higher due to fragile vessels and limited verbal reporting. Review special considerations for neonatal TPN and pediatric chemotherapy administration.
The INS Infusion Therapy Standards of Practice is the authoritative reference for the exam. Questions address scope of practice, informed consent for infusion procedures, documentation standards, patient rights, and the nurse's responsibility to report safety concerns and near-misses through appropriate channels.
Want immediate feedback on your answers? Take our interactive CRNI practice test online with instant scoring and detailed answer rationales. Use the online quizzes alongside the printable PDF to cover all the content domains tested on the CRNI certification exam.