10/30/2024
A couple days ago we congratulated Jerral on his CCRN Certification. We asked him a few questions about what motivated him, what did he use to prepare, what advice he has, and if his unit experience helped prepare him for the CCRN. Here is what he had to say.
“As soon as I found out about the CCRN, I knew I wanted to get my certification. I believe being certified in your field of practice is a professional standard that everyone should desire. The one thing that really "lit my fire" to pursue my CCRN certification is a plaque that hangs on the wall in our unit near the nurse's station. The plaque has a place for the nurses' names in the unit with their CCRN. Every one of those nurses is incredible. I knew I wanted my name among them!
I used a variety of materials to study for the CCRN. I used the Critical Care Nursing Certification 6th edition book for in-depth and comprehensive learning, Barron Flashcards for review and a YouTube video series that asked questions and provided rationales. Of course, the best teacher is experience! Working in the ICU at St. Joseph's Hospital and being surrounded by seasoned and experienced nurses is the best way to learn. We have such an amazing staff who love to share their knowledge and experiences with new graduates it is truly an honor to work among them and to learn every time I walk into the door!
My advice to other nurses is to GET YOUR CCRN! You can do it! If you have been working in the ICU, just take the plunge! You passed the NCLEX, just study for 1 more test. It will give you more confidence in your practice and a sense of great accomplishment. You already are doing the work; now you can get the credit and recognition you deserve.”
