There are sometimes "warning signs" of an accredited organization approaching a problematic time. The following list is provided as a tool that may be used by the accredited organization to identify a time when the organization might provide particularly close watch and care of the accredited CNE unit. These "warning signs" are based on evidence collected by the Accreditation Program and have been validated by other continuing nursing education accreditation bodies.

The presence of:

1. a major change in the organizational structure (includes change in ownership, mergers, acquisitions, significant change in job responsibilities, etc.).
2. significant staff turnover (either in numbers of staff, e.g. 50%, or in key personnel, e.g. nurse planner).
3. changes in key personnel (nurse planner, in some cases this may include the administrator and/or the administrative assistant).
4. presence of conflict of interest (including commercial support).
5. presence of complaints lodged against the accredited organization.
6. incomplete or unacceptable interim, annual, or other reports or updated self-study.
7. lack of appropriate actions toward CNE unit goals.

The items listed above are not necessarily definitive—but have been found useful and valid in identifying possible problematic times. They are provided to assist the accredited organization.