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Weekly Q&A: Professional certification

HCPro's Weekly Update on the ANCC Magnet Recognition Program®*, April 18, 2006

This week, an international organization working to develop a ANCC Magnet Recognition Program® environment asks for clarification of the term "professional certification" as it relates to the program. Read the response below from our advisor, Barbara L. O'Brien, RN, MSN, Cert., president, Magnetic HealthCare Strategies, LLC, Manchester, NJ.

Q: What does the phrase "professional certification" mean as it relates to ANCC Magnet Recognition Program®?

A: Professional growth as a nurse is a critical, ongoing process for nursing administrators and staff to pursue. Professional certification is one example of professional development. For instance, specialty organizations offer testing for specialty certifications (e.g., the Association of Perioperative Registered Nurses offers testing for operating room nurse certification). Also, universities offer courses in various certifications, such as certification in administration. The ANCC-the organization that confers designation-offers certification exams that staff and administrators may take to become certified in their field of practice. Once obtained, they must meet certain requirements to maintain this certification. There are benefits to pursuing these different types of certification. For instance, the literature supports that certified nurses have excellent patient outcomes. When it comes to funding certification initiatives, many organizations, especially designated facilities, establish programs to support nurses in their pursuit of certification (e.g., reimbursement for testing fees).

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