Every March Certified Nurses Day recognizes nurses who achieve a national board certification, celebrating nurses who demonstrate a deep commitment to professionalism, excellence, safety, and service through achievement of nursing credentialing in their chosen specialty.
Certification increases a nurse’s credibility when called to collaborate with others as it demonstrates an advanced level of expertise. In Northern California, 15 percent of Kaiser Permanente nurses are board certified. We hear from a few of them on why they pursued certification, what the process was like for them, and how it benefits them personally and professionally.
Danielle Guadagni, RN, CPAN
Staff Nurse II, Post Anesthesia Care Unit, Santa Rosa Medical Center
Danielle Guadagni’s drive to become board certified began after she had her first baby, and experiencing care as a patient. “In that moment that I truly understood how vital it is to provide the highest quality of care and how deeply it impacts a person’s life,” she said. “That experience strengthened my drive to continuously improve my skills and to provide the very best care to my patients.”
She completed the certified post anesthesia nurse (CPAN) certification alongside six colleagues. “Doing it together made the experience even more supportive and rewarding,” she said. “I am committed to lifelong learning and encourage others to embrace this journey as well!”
Rod Martin, BSN, RN, PCCN, CV-BC, CMC, GERO-BC
Staff Nurse IV, Float Pool Unit Roseville Medical Center
Rod Martin says certification has boosted his confidence and enhanced his credibility among peers, employers, and patients. “Certification signifies my fervor for nursing and my resolute commitment to continuous professional mastery,” he said. “It involves engaging with a specialty’s advanced concepts, evidence-based practices, and constant education.
He commends his Nursing Professional Development colleagues at the Roseville Medical Center for nurturing his growth. “They organize review courses, provide study materials, and offer guidance for certification exams,” said Rod. “Kaiser Permanente further supports our development by covering exam fees through a tuition reimbursement program, making certification accessible. This support was instrumental in my journey towards certification.”
Rod added, “My certification journey embodies my wholehearted promise to contribute to the profession and make a lasting, positive impact on patients and their families.”
Maricor McKinney, BSN, RN, PCCN, GRN
Staff Nurse II, Medical Surgical Telemetry Unit, Vallejo Medical Center
Last year, Maricor McKinney’s professional goal was to earn her PCCN, and she took advantage of a 2-day review course sponsored by Kaiser Permanente. “One of the things that I love about KP is its unwavering support towards advancement,” she shared.
The course ignited something in her that she knew she needed to keep going. She studied for at least 20 hours a week for three weeks and took the exam after. “Having two jobs with three kids was challenging, but I knew I just have to go for it,” she said. “I watched tons of nursing videos online, took the AACN practice exam and I also hosted a review session among my peers.”
“Becoming a PCCN signifies that I am equipped with the right tools and knowledge, and am up to date with the current practices,” said Cori. “I want to apply evidence-based practices to provide the highest quality of care possible to my patients.”
Lydia Radonic, BSN, RN, PHN, GERO-BC
Staff Nurse II, Medical Surgical/Ortho Unit, Redwood City Medical Center
Lydia Radonic became a certified nurse to demonstrate her commitment to professional growth and continuous learning. “Certification opens doors for career advancement and validates my clinical expertise,” she said.
“I work with a diverse patient population, with everyone having their own unique needs. This knowledge is essential for delivering holistic, patient-centered care and recognizing early signs of deterioration,” said Lydia. “It also ensures timely escalation of care and promotes effective team collaboration to optimize patient outcomes.”
Her patient’s benefit as well. “Certification keeps me current with best practices, enabling me to deliver high-quality care and make a well-informed, meaningful impact on the care I provide,” she said.
Kaiser Permanente supported her certification process by providing accessible certification preparation courses and offering easy-to-navigate tuition reimbursement. “KP made it more convenient for me to further my education and advance my nursing expertise,” she said.
Attention KP NCAL nurses!
The Nurse Scholars Academy is offering a limited-time opportunity to apply for pre-paid certification vouchers from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). This is your chance to advance your personal growth and gain recognition for your expertise.
Don’t miss out – Vouchers are awarded on a first come, first serve basis between now and May 12.
For more information and eligibility requirements, click here.