How long have you been certified?

5-9 years

How has the CIC® helped you grow professionally and in your career?

Being certified has helped me obtain a level of professionalism and knowledge that I felt was lacking in my career before. It has given me the confidence I needed to be able to put things in motion, such as new programs to improve our patients’ care and safety by decreasing their risk of SSIs. We have recently begun a nasal decolonization program and a new way of doing pre operative prepping of the surgical site. I believe with the CIC title behind my name my knowledge is taken more seriously.

Why did you choose to recertify?

Although, I am semi-retired, I plan on staying active in my professional life and believe that recertification will benefit me along that path.

What advice would you give to someone considering certification?

There are multiple types of certifications, but I would say look at where you are in your career and what you want to accomplish, then base your decision on that. I believe certifications in whatever your career goals are will benefit you professionally and personally. Professionally, it will enhance your credibility and knowledge and personally, it will give you that feeling of confidence in yourself that you will you to succeed in your career and your life.