I just attended a major 2-day IOM workshop in Washington, DC. The topic was developing research methodologies to measure the effects of credentialing in nursing on patient care outcomes. The planning committee has been in place for a couple of years. This was a public forum for final discussions and operationalization of plans to make this a reality.
Attendees were very impressive consisting of the best researchers and scientists in the profession of nursing. Two of my Loyola University graduate professors were there. Distinguished sponsors included ANCC, National Councils of SBN, special nursing certification organizations, and prominent chief nursing officers. I am not a researcher or a scientist. I was there to obtain first hand information of the potential impact on continuing nursing education. I was invited by ANCC as I am an accreditation appraiser.
Here are my take home points:
- Registered nurses will have to achieve national certification to practice. This has been a successful concept with advanced practice nurses.
- Research is being evaluated and designed to assess the outcomes of patient care rendered by certified RNs.
- Credentialing requirements will go beyond employer mandates... state licensing boards will be brought in a major players in this equation.
- Licensure = Certification + Continuing Nursing Education to support life long learning. No certification - No RN license.
- Student nurses must be educated on the importance of certification. Ha! As faculty, I ALWAYS discussed this when I taught nursing to RNs and LPNs! I felt that students must learn early that nursing is a lifelong commitment to ongoing learning and advanced credentials beyond basic licensure! Oh yeah!!!
I have two national certifications to support my licenses, professional practice and ongoing edification. So, I personally welcome this study. It makes a difference. I am proud of the quality of care that I rendered to my patients.
The emphasis with IOM and this prominent group of distinguished nurses was not if this should take place but WHEN this will take place. IOM has spoken!!! This is going to happen soon!
- First- the movement was the BSN.
- Now- the next step is credentialing. (In some instances a few speakers used credentialing and certification interchangeably, but there is a difference).
As our country moves toward affordable healthcare, that care will be ensured of a high quality and be delivered by registered nurses who are credentialed in knowledge, skills and attitude.
This is an exciting and wonderful direction for patients and the nursing profession.
Welcome to the 21st century!
