Competence and Certification of Registered Nurses and Safety of Patients in Intensive Care Units

Abstract

Background-Adverse events that place patients at risk for harm are common in intensive care units. Clinicians' level of knowledge and judgment appear to play a role in the prevention, mitigation, and creation of adverse advents. Research suggests a possible association between nurses' specialty certification and clinical expertise. The relationship between specialty certification and clinical competence of registered nurses and safety of patients is a relatively new area of inquiry in nursing.

Does Australia need credentialed emergency nurse specialists?

“…20,21 Ongoing credentialing ensures a commitment to ongoing professional development and nurtures an environment that maintains a credentialed nurse's clinical currency with up to date, evidence based specialty developments. 10,22 In addition, credentialed nurses' self-perception is altered through personal achievements, with credentialing frequently related to higher levels of motivation, authority and selfworth.…”

Certification and Clinical Ladder as the Impetus for Professional Development

“…Certification is regarded as a means of validating cognitive knowledge and continued competency as recommended by the Institute of Medicine. 7 With only 21 states mandating a required number of continuing education hours to renew a nurse's license, national specialty certification attests to competency as individual health professionals. 3 National certification also safeguards the public by ensuring certified individuals are held accountable for continued knowledge as their nursing career progresses.…”

Certification in heart failure nursing is coming

“…2,3 In another study, the proportion of certified nurses was inversely related to patient falls in critical care. 4 Certified nurses were more likely to support family-centered care during resuscitation. 5 These studies support certification to improve patient care delivery and outcomes.…”