The Case for Professional Certification

Purpose:
In 2010, the Hallmark Health System (HHS) Department of Nursing collected data via NDNQI to establish the launching point for the commitment to certification.

Significance:
HHS believes that professional certification is the mark of excellence & advances the profession by encouraging and recognizing professional achievement through specialized education and successful completion of a qualifying exam. More importantly, certification contributes to better patient care.

Strategy and Implementation:
Supported by the landmark work of Linda Aiken, et al, the HHS Chief Nurse Council, invited the nursing leadership team to attend on-site educational & coaching sessions to prepare directors for the ANCC Nurse Executive examination. The sessions were taught by the Chief Nurse Council members. Each session covered a topic included on the exam. All staff are supported in these endeavors with financial assistance and time away from work. HHS provides certification preparation courses for nurses at all levels seeking to successfully pass the certifying exam. Nurses are provided both the time to attend the course, may utilize the continuing education days provided to every nurse and all the resource materials. Nurses are reimbursed for the cost of the certifying exam. All certified nurses are recognized for their professional achievement on a perpetual plaque, in the quarterly nursing newsletter and a personnel note sent to their home.

Evaluation:
As lifelong learners, HHS nurses continuously tend to their professional development by obtaining advanced degrees, participating in continuing educational offerings to attain professional certification. HHS met its goal to increase certification by 10% annually.

Implications for Practice:
Certification is recognition of a nurse's competence and ability. Patients who are cared for by certified nurses have better outcomes.