I obtained my CPN (Certified Pediatric Nurse) certification in October of 2015. According to the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board, “The CPN exam validates knowledge and expertise of pediatric nurses beyond basic RN licensure.” I currently work for a magnet status organization who highly values this certification. They paid for my 2-day review course, compensated me for the time I spent at the course and paid for the exam. They also pay for my renewal fees. I see personal value in my specialty certification. I think I spent more time studying and worrying about my specialty certification than I did boards. It was much more specific and I knew I would need to know more than just average competency. I was so proud of myself when I found out I passed. I feel as though I am recognized within our organization and in my clinic as having expertise in my area. I also believe this will benefit me in the future with career mobility when I do decide to change positions. I feel like my patients and families also benefit from this certification as it has given me a greater knowledge on topics specific to pediatric nursing. While I haven’t seen a direct increase in compensation because of this certification it has been mentioned several times in my annual evaluations, which are used to determine our raises.

According to the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board, “97% of nurses say certification provides personal satisfaction. 90% of nurse managers prefer hiring certified nurses over non-certified nurses if all other factors are equal. 88% of nurses agree that certification enhances confidence in clinical abilities. In a 2017 Medscape compensation study, certified RNs typically earn $7,000 or 9% more than those without certification.” Overall, specialty certification is the standard of excellence in nursing.

CPN Certification Benefits. (n.d.). Retrieved April 09, 2018, from https://www.pncb.org/cpn-certification-benefits