The journey to certification can be like climbing a mountain. In the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, people climb 14 000-ft peaks. I have summited a few of these mountains since moving here, and the pride and sense of accomplishment in reaching the top are like finally putting those CCRN letters after your name. Although the panoramic views that rewarded me at the peak were amazing, the sights along the way were wonderful too, and I almost missed those. I was so focused on putting one foot in front of the other that I was not noticing the beauty around me. If my friend had not reminded me to look around, I would not have noticed the mountain goat grazing nearby. I might have achieved the same goal, but without gaining the same value from the journey. Similarly, nurses benefit from the process of certification as well as the pride...

You do not currently have access to this content.