March 19 marks Certified Nurses Day, an opportunity to celebrate nurses who have received the highest credentials in their profession through certification. We spoke with five certified Brigham nurses on the importance of their certifications and got their advice on how to overcome barriers in achieving certification. 

Rose Ake, MPH, RNC-OB
Staff Nurse, CWN 8 Antenatal Care 

“Certification is important to me for several reasons. It has provided me with a sense of accomplishment, and I feel confident in demonstrating what I know in my area of specialty. It is fulfilling to be recognized by my patients, teammates and the public for the knowledge I possess.  

I love my job, and I make a difference in my practice by using my expert knowledge to make good nursing decisions with greater confidence in my judgment.  

My certification has empowered me to continue to care for my patients the Brigham way: With a deep commitment to providing excellent care to patients and families with the best staff and in the safest environment.” 

Rose Allain, BSN, RN, CCM
RN Care Facilitator, Emergency Department 

“Certification as a case manager (CCM) is considered the gold standard, and for me, it validates my education, knowledge base and experience. The certification reflects my commitment to upholding the highest professional and ethical standards.  

I scheduled a test date with enough time to adequately study and prepare. I took a preparation/review class so I could focus on what I most needed to review. I set aside certain days and hours to study each week leading up to the exam. I left a buffer at the end in case I was not able to spend adequate time some weeks and so that I could review everything once more at the end.”  

Meghan Colantuoni, BSN, RN, AMB-BC
Staff Nurse, Brigham & Women’s Physician Group 

“Ambulatory Care Nursing certification is important to me because it demonstrates my knowledge and experience in ambulatory care.  

 Becoming a certified nurse continues to enhance my practice daily. I have more confidence in my nursing judgement and triage decisions. I also believe my certification demonstrates additional credibility and enthusiasm in my specialty area, which is very important to me. 

I am grateful that my current position as a staff nurse at BWH provides me with daily experiences related to my studies for the certification. I began to study before scheduling the exam to reduce any pressure on constantly studying in anticipation of a deadline. I didn’t end up scheduling the exam until I had completed my general review of study material. From then on, I was able to review only what I felt was necessary while awaiting the test date. I would recommend this strategy to anyone desiring a certification.” 

Jonathan Esponilla, MSN RN, PCCN
Staff Nurse, Braunwald Tower 16AB, Intermediate Medicine  

“Certification validates my knowledge and skills as an intermediate floor nurse. It also updates my practice to the ever-changing field of medicine, helping me to better advocate for my patients and promote better outcomes. 

Obtaining this certification is challenging and time-consuming, but everybody can do it. My tips include studying at least half an hour a few days a week, attending the review class, and buying or creating your flashcards. Also, download a PCCN app that you can read for 10-20 questions per day and aim for 80-100% every time you answer the questions.” 

Thalia Pacheco, BSN, RN, PCCN
Staff Nurse, Shapiro 9 West/10 East West, Cardiac Care   

“The process of obtaining my Progressive Care Certification was a way to encourage myself to keep on learning and to not be afraid to accept new challenges in my career.  

Certification positively impacts how I provide patient care. Certain clinical situations make more sense, and I can better advocate for my patients with the knowledge I’ve gained. 

I knew that studying for the PCCN was going to be difficult with juggling home life and work, but I scheduled the exam date first so that I could hold myself accountable to set aside the time to focus. I would encourage my colleagues who are considering certification to select an exam date and be intentional with your studying, even if it’s just 20-30 minutes a day.” 

The BWH Department of Nursing offers support and resources for nurses who wish to achieve certification. These include voucher programs or reimbursement to cover exam costs, free retakes, review courses and study groups, as well as a certification bonus. Visit the Vitals intranet for more information. (Please note, this link is accessible to BWH and MGB employees only).