Evaluating the Value of Certification Among Noncertified Neuroscience Nurses

BACKGROUND : Nurses who obtain voluntary specialty certification have higher levels of perceived value for certification compared with noncertified nurses. By identifying and fostering the lesser held perceived values, peers and organizations may increase the overall perceived value of certification among noncertified neuroscience nurses, which, in turn, could lead to higher certification attainment. METHODS : This was a cross-sectional descriptive exploratory design after a survey completed by noncertified neuroscience nurses. Certified neuroscience (CNRN) and stroke certified registered nurses (SCRN) were used as a comparison group. The nurses reported the benefits of certification using the Perceived Value of Certification Tool 12. Logistic regression was used to determine the presence of significant differences in value statement responses among the 2 groups. Percentage of agreement with the value statements among noncertified nurses was also reported. RESULTS : A total of 338 noncertified neuroscience nurses completed the survey. Participants reported a mean age of 44.7 years, and 88% were female. About 68% of participants were White/Non-Hispanic. Among the 12 value statements, noncertified neuroscience nurses reported the highest levels of agreement with statements related to validation of knowledge, personal accomplishment, and commitment to neuroscience nursing. The lowest levels of agreement were associated with being listened to, professional autonomy, and higher pay. Logistic regression demonstrated that certified neuroscience nurses (n = 640) had significant higher levels of agreement with 8 of the 12 value statements compared with noncertified neuroscience nurses . CONCLUSION : Support for certification among neuroscience nurses cannot rely upon 1 source. Although hospitals and professional organizations play a significant role, peer support from certified neuroscience nurses is needed for fostering the value of certification. Further research using open-ended questions to provide detail regarding noncertificant responses to the 8 value statements may provide additional insight needed to strategize certification achievement.