The investment to support and obtain board certification demonstrates a nurse leader's commitment to their staff, the organization, and the communities they serve. It is important for nurse leaders to appreciate how organizational support of board certification can positively impact patient care and to be advocates for funding to support board certification for their staff. This month's Magnet® Perspectives column discusses the empirical evidence, as well as the professional value of certification.

No abstract

Certification of nursing staff has been associated with improved patient outcomes; however, time, cost, and test anxiety are barriers to achieving it. Readiness tests can reduce test anxiety related to certification examinations. A readiness test helps nurses prepare by providing a simulated experience that matches the actual testing environment and identifying knowledge gaps. These tests can be added to other steps nurse leaders can take to encourage certification and support staff professional development.