CC19
Value Added: MS Nurse Certification - Real World Implications
Certification for specialty nursing practice was developed to recognize the specialized knowledge, skills and experiences of nurses in a specialty area. This is demonstrated by achieving the standards identified by the nursing specialty and acknowledged by certification. The outcome of certification is to promote optimal health care for the population in the specialty area. Participation in certification is voluntary in most specialties but it has been shown to be valued by nurses. In previous studies, certification is seen as increased accountability, accomplishment, growth, and specialized knowledge. There is an increased level of recognition among employers, peers, and consumers.
Certification for nurses involved in Multiple Sclerosis care was established in 2002 by the International Organization of Multiple Sclerosis Nurses (IOMSN). The IOMSN recognized the need for MS nurses to meet the standards for MS nursing and recognize those who have demonstrated knowledge, skills and expertise. The MS Nurses International Certification Board (MSNICB) was developed to enhance professional practice and patient care through multiple sclerosis nursing certification. The objectives of the MSNICB are to set the criterion for certification qualification and to develop, administer and evaluate the examination for certification of nurses involved in MS patient/family care. Nurses who successfully pass the exam are able to call themselves an MS Certified Nurse (MSCN). Although certification is endorsed by the IOMSN, the perceived value of certification is the major influence on the decision of registered nurses to pursue the MS credentialing process.
Objectives: The purpose of this study is to determine the perceived value of MS certification by nurses who are MSCNs.
Methods:
Working with the Professional Testing Corporation, all MSCN’s who were certified through November 2014 (n= 680) were e-mailed a survey which included demographics, the Perceived Value of Certification Tool and questions regarding incentives offered by employers for certification. Survey responses were anonymous and it took less than 10 minutes to complete. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the results.
Results: Results are pending
Conclusions: pending