Contributions
Abstract: EP1396
Type: ePoster
Abstract Category: Clinical aspects of MS - Clinical assessment tools
Background: The development of the Multiple Sclerosis international nurse certification examination has addressed the global need for MS nurses to be proficient in a range of clinical, educational, advocacy and research skills. In previous studies, certification has been seen as increased accountability, accomplishment, growth, and specialized knowledge. There is an increased level of recognition among employers, peers, and consumers.
Certification for nurses involved in Multiple Sclerosis care was established in 2002 by the International Organization of Multiple Sclerosis Nurses (IOMSN). The IOMSN recognized the need for MS nurses to meet the standards for MS nursing and recognize those who have demonstrated knowledge, skills and expertise. The MS Nurses International Certification Board (MSNICB) was developed to enhance professional practice and patient care through endorsement as an MS Certified Nurse (MSCN).
Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the perceived value of MS certification by nurses who are MSCNs. Additionally, the goals and objectives MSCN examination process will be discussed so that MS nurses globally are aware of the certification process and what is involved to achieve it.
Method: Working with the Professional Testing Corporation, all international MSCN"s who were certified through November 2014 (n= 680) were e-mailed a survey which included demographics and the Perceived Value of Certification Tool and questions regarding incentives offered by employers for certification. Survey responses were anonymous and it took less than 10 minutes to complete. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the results.
Results: Results from the study showed that most MS nurses remain certified over time and are generally satisfied with certification as an MS Nurse. The value of certification is mainly intrinsic, with MSCNs reporting personal satisfaction, accomplishment and professional credibility as their greatest reward through the process. However, greater recognition by employers in the MS field is needed, as well as funding avenues for recertification. We discuss these issues and show pathways that MS nurses may undertake to achieve MS Nurse certification.
Disclosure: Therese Burke: Nothing to disclose
Abstract: EP1396
Type: ePoster
Abstract Category: Clinical aspects of MS - Clinical assessment tools
Background: The development of the Multiple Sclerosis international nurse certification examination has addressed the global need for MS nurses to be proficient in a range of clinical, educational, advocacy and research skills. In previous studies, certification has been seen as increased accountability, accomplishment, growth, and specialized knowledge. There is an increased level of recognition among employers, peers, and consumers.
Certification for nurses involved in Multiple Sclerosis care was established in 2002 by the International Organization of Multiple Sclerosis Nurses (IOMSN). The IOMSN recognized the need for MS nurses to meet the standards for MS nursing and recognize those who have demonstrated knowledge, skills and expertise. The MS Nurses International Certification Board (MSNICB) was developed to enhance professional practice and patient care through endorsement as an MS Certified Nurse (MSCN).
Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the perceived value of MS certification by nurses who are MSCNs. Additionally, the goals and objectives MSCN examination process will be discussed so that MS nurses globally are aware of the certification process and what is involved to achieve it.
Method: Working with the Professional Testing Corporation, all international MSCN"s who were certified through November 2014 (n= 680) were e-mailed a survey which included demographics and the Perceived Value of Certification Tool and questions regarding incentives offered by employers for certification. Survey responses were anonymous and it took less than 10 minutes to complete. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the results.
Results: Results from the study showed that most MS nurses remain certified over time and are generally satisfied with certification as an MS Nurse. The value of certification is mainly intrinsic, with MSCNs reporting personal satisfaction, accomplishment and professional credibility as their greatest reward through the process. However, greater recognition by employers in the MS field is needed, as well as funding avenues for recertification. We discuss these issues and show pathways that MS nurses may undertake to achieve MS Nurse certification.
Disclosure: Therese Burke: Nothing to disclose