Why Orthopaedic Nursing Certification?

Orthopaedic CNS certification validates my knowledge and enables me to be the APN resource for nurses on my unit.  My OCNS-C credential helps me to be an important resource for our executive director and service line vice president as we work to refine our joint replacement program.

Certification has served as both a personal and professional validation of my orthopaedic knowledge and skill. At our organization, certification has helped to establish and improve use of evidence based practice and identifies the staff as leaders in these patient efforts.

I obtained my certification in 1991…it was the catalyst to lifelong learning and professional growth in orthopaedic nursing.

I became certified in 2005, only 3 years after becoming an RN. It was a personal challenge for me, and I never dreamed I would pass the exam so early in my career. My certification has opened so many doors for me, primarily giving me an advantage when applying for jobs. Everyone wants a certified nurse on their staff! I am SO proud to hold the ONC credential!

The leader of our special unit was so enthusiastic, motivating and encouraging our unit to become 100% ONC nurses. Her enthusiasm was contagious. The benefits for our patients are immeasurable… the most knowledgeable team of orthopaedic nurses caring for orthopaedic patients. The credential has given me self-confidence when interfacing with patients and their families.

My OCNS-C was an essential element when I applied for my APRN license in DC.  DC had just begun a program in which clinical nurse specialists could apply for APRN licenses.  The OCNS-C certificate helped me obtain this license.  I was then able to get a 5% raise and a new position within my organization.

I decided to become certified for the knowledge; what better way to learn than to study for an certification exam?  I love orthopedics and wanted to further my knowledge so I can assist the patient to a better outcome.  Having this certification backs up the experience I have gained over the years of being an orthopedic nurse.

I was encouraged by my leadership to get my orthopedic certification in 2010, just a couple years after becoming a nurse. Becoming certified helped me to be more confident in my profession. I am very passionate about continuing my education and keeping my certification up and to help my coworkers to become certified. I love being an orthopaedic-certified nurse!

I took the first certification! My ONC opened many doors for me…I am so proud of my ONC!

I became certified as an ONP-C with its first offering in 2006.  This certification motivates me to stay current in orthopedic education, and to bring the best practice guidelines I can to our practice.  I eventually became an expert witness in orthopedic nursing, largely due to my certification and commitment to the highest quality orthopedic practice.  Being a certified orthopedic nurse practitioner personally motivates me, professionally stimulates me, and has opened avenues for me to contribute concretely to our profession.