Texas Health Resources provides a standardized process for bonus payments and exam fee reimbursements for registered nurses who achieve a national nursing certification. Jill Votano, B.S.N., R.N., CPAN, post-anesthesia care unit (PACU), Texas Health Hospital Frisco, shares why she became a certified medical-surgical registered nurse.
What inspired you to become a nurse? My mom inspired me to become a nurse. I have always admired my mom and wanted to be just like her. She is amazing! She is the kindest, most giving person I know. She started out as a teacher and went back to school to be a nurse when I was 5 years old. She would share stories of her job and how satisfied she felt knowing she had such a positive impact on patients’ care and lives.
I knew that was what I wanted to do when I was older. I wanted to make others feel better and help them as best as I could. Knowing that I am able to make a patient and their family/friend feel safe and cared for is the best part of my job.
Why did you decide to pursue certification? I just became CPAN (certified post anesthesia nurse) in May. I had been thinking about taking the exam for a few years and felt this was the right time. There is so much to learn in nursing. Each department of nursing can vary greatly, and I wanted to improve my knowledge in my field.
What did you learn by becoming certified? By studying, I learned more about side effects of anesthesia, blocks, medications and caring for patients recovering from a multitude of surgeries. I know my knowledge has improved greatly, and I am more confident as a nurse in the PACU.
Why do you think it’s important for nurses to pursue certification? Becoming certified can improve the way you care for patients. You can gain more knowledge in your specific area of nursing.
Is there anything else you would like to tell your colleagues? There are so many different avenues in nursing. I think it’s important to know as much as you can in your area and understand the “why” behind your care. Nursing is always changing, and it’s important to stay on top of these changes to be the best nurse you can be.
