Nikki CondemarinOctavia BS, RN, BSN, CCRN, CSC-CMC is a triple threat working in the Cardiovascular Medical & Surgical ICU. As you can see from her credentials, she passed all three critical care certification exams (CCRN®, CMC®, and CSC®).
As a critical care nurse, she believes having a well-rounded understanding of key concepts and how to effectively treat patients is essential.
Benefits of Obtaining Certification in Nursing
Octavia thinks the benefits of becoming a certified nurse go beyond the increased paycheck.
“Since receiving my CCRN, it has not only increased my earning potential but has also encouraged me to dive deeper into understanding disease processes at a cellular level. Obtaining the CCRN has been the fuel I needed to pursue additional certifications like the CMC and CSC. As a result, I now have a depth of knowledge I never thought I would achieve.”
Getting certified is a great way for nurses to grow their professional career, as well as gain invaluable knowledge that can excel their patient care in the ICU.
What Advice Would You Give Other Nurses Looking To Pursue Certification?
“Stay humble, but always keep educating yourself. Continuously seek out resources and opportunities to deepen your knowledge and skills—it will not only make you a better nurse but also help you grow in confidence and competence.”
Resources To Pass The CCRN®, CMC®, and CSC® Certification Exams
Searching for the perfect study materials for your certification exams can be daunting. After researching the best study prep options, she said, “Nicole Kupchik’’s content consistently came up as the top choice. Her reviews were outstanding, with many praising her teaching style and how she makes complex concepts easy to understand. I wanted to be part of that experience.”
Octavia used the “ACE The” Series to conquer her exams. The series include, “Ace the CCRN®!”, “Ace the PCCN®!”, “Ace the CMC®!”, and “Ace the CSC®!” They are Study Guides that act as an essential resource for nurses preparing for their certification exams. The comprehensive guides all align with AACN’s test plan and are designed to help you succeed just like Octavia.
Overcoming Work Life Balance When Studying For Certification Exams
As nurses, it’s difficult to find the free time to study, most shifts have you going straight to bed when you come home! Octavia is no stranger to this. “Some challenges I faced while preparing for the CCRN included finding a balance between work and studying, committing to sit down and focus on the content during my days off, or even while at work. I also had to get creative by listening to lectures while I drove to make the most of my time.” Having a great support system also helps in the journey to certification. “My partner, family, and friends were my greatest sources of support. They encouraged me and constantly reminded me that I could achieve anything I set my mind to.”
The Most Fulfilling Part About Becoming A Certified Nurse
“Being there for patients and helping them recover during the most vulnerable times of their lives has been incredibly fulfilling. I also find joy in educating them about their disease processes, medications, and necessary lifestyle changes to support their health journey.”
What’s A Saying You Live By?
“”Challenges are what make life interesting and overcoming them is what makes life meaningful”- Joshua J. Marine
Octavia definitely overcame the challenge of passing the CCRN®, CMC®, and CSC® Certification Exams bringing meaningfulness to her and her patient’s lives.
Follow along Octavia’s certified nursing journey on Instagram: @Ohnurse.o
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