Nursing specialty certification is essential because it offers multifaceted benefits ranging from personal achievement to better patient care. The purpose of this paper is to summarize the article “Making the case for nursing specialty certification” by Blozen, Barbara B, where the authors explore “why” and “how” nursing certification is vital for any nurse. By reading this article, I have expanded my knowledge and confidence to grow and evolve in the nursing field.
Summary
The question of certification triggers different responses from different nurses. What motivates a nurse to be certified varies, just like the nurses who make the decision. The authors observe that some nurses seek certification to satisfy their own personal achievements while others pursue accreditation by virtue of their specialty field of practice. Within a nursing specialty, the authors assert that certification highlights high standards of clinical knowledge, clinical judgment, and experience in a particular area (Boyle, 2014) Not only does nursing specialty certification lead to high financial and professional achievements, but it also supports personal growth and fulfilments in several ways. As a nurse, you can advance in your career, which is highly associated with professional recognition, financial rewards, and perceived empowerment. According to the author, when nurses are certified, they acquire appreciation, which, in turn, promotes empowerment (Boyle, 2017). Additionally, certified nurses report high levels of empowerment, which is associated with the fact that they want to retain their current positions where they are satisfied. Overall, nursing specialty certification raises your nursing practice standards throughout your career to improve patient care and safety in the long run (Boyle, 2017).
Impact on Future Practice
After reading the article, I must admit that nursing certification is a goal I would like to achieve one day. As a nurse in the making, I feel certification will not only recognize my efforts in the nursing practice but will also empower me. From the article, it is clear that different people pursue or reject the opportunity for certification for different reasons based on their values. If someone hopes to achieve something new such as landing a new job, progressing in your profession, or pursuing certification, you do so based on your values and determination to succeed (Boyle, 2017). I believe with the knowledge acquired by reading this article; I will be able to relentlessly seek certification to access the best employment opportunities in my region to offer improved patient care.
Conclusion
From the above discussion, it is evident that there are many advantages associated with benefits. Apart from personal achievements like career development, nursing specialty certification offers other tangible benefits. These benefits may present in the form of career ladder advancements, which eventually lead to high compensation. It does not matter your position in the healthcare center. Nurse certification allows you to succeed in whatever specialty field you choose across the institution. Research indicates that nursing specialty certification boosts nurses’ confidence, validates their qualifications, and promotes quality patient care.
