Catholic Health Good Samaritan University Hospital (West Islip, NY) nurse Janet Stevens, MSN, CCRN, recently received national recognition for reaching a significant milestone in the nursing profession. For 35 years, Stevens has consistently maintained CCRN certification offered through the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Corporation. She is being honored this year by both the corporation and the AACN.
CCRN certification is one of the most advanced professional credentials that can be achieved by a nurse in the field of acute/critical care. As a result, the CCRN credential is highly regarded as recognition of advanced knowledge and clinical expertise in the care of acutely/critically ill patients and their families. There are currently more than 99,000 CCRN-certified nurses practicing worldwide who specialize in the direct care of adult, pediatric or neonatal patient care.
The importance of clinical certification to the health and well-being of patients in the U.S. has been well documented. Research has specifically linked CCRN certification to higher levels of job satisfaction, clinical knowledge, experience and skill. These studies have found that CCRN certified nurses are particularly motivated to maintain clinical excellence even in rapidly changing acute and critical care environments. Further, the studies found that the achievement of certification serves as a tangible demonstration of commitment on the part of the individual to patients, families, employers and colleagues alike.
“Congratulations to Janet Stevens on this amazing recognition,” said Good Samaritan University Hospital Chief Nursing Officer Susan Knoepffler, MPA, BSN, RN, NE-BC. “CCRN certification validates Janet’s expertise in caring for our critically ill patients, while also displaying her continued excellence in nursing. To maintain this certification for 35 years is an incredible accomplishment. Good Samaritan University Hospital is fortunate to have her as a long-standing member of the family.”
Hospitals that encourage and support their nurses in becoming certified demonstrate to their patients a high level of commitment to creating an exceptional care environment and, to their nurses, a culture of professionalism and retention imperative in today’s health care environment.
Stevens resides in Manorville with her husband Ritchie.