Passing the PCCN® Progressive Care Certified Nurse Highlight!

If you’re a nurse looking to advance your career and improve patient care, obtaining your PCCN® (Progressive Care Certified Nurse) certification is an essential step. Jhoniel Santiago, MSN, RN, CCRN-CMC, PCCN, knows this better than anyone. Since beginning his nursing career in 2021, Jhoniel has quickly climbed the ranks and earned impressive credentials, demonstrating his commitment to excellence in nursing.

When he’s not gaming or spending quality time with loved ones, Jhoniel is on the front lines, caring for critically ill patients at St. Joseph’s University Medical Center in the CCU/CTICU. His work is grounded in his belief in the power of knowledge, a philosophy he lives by every day. His favorite saying, “Whether you think you can or can’t, you’re right,” reflects his positive and determined attitude, which led him to successfully pass the PCCN® exam.

What is the PCCN Certification?

PCCN stands for Progressive Care Certified Nurse, a specialized certification designed for registered nurses who demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills in caring for acutely ill adult patients in progressive care units. These units bridge the gap between critical care and general medical care, making it crucial for nurses to have specialized expertise.

For Jhoniel, obtaining his PCCN® certification was a game-changer. It gave him the opportunity to become more involved in quality improvement projects and play a role in training new nurses on his unit. These contributions are not only beneficial for his career but also directly improve patient outcomes, motivating Jhoniel to pursue the certification in the first place.

PCCN® Certification Benefits

There are many reasons why nurses choose to pursue their PCCN® certification, including:

• Enhanced Skills and Knowledge: Studying for the exam deepens your understanding of progressive care nursing and enhances your clinical judgment.
• Career Advancement: A PCCN certification can open doors to new opportunities, leadership roles, and a wider scope of practice.
• Increased Earning Potential: Certified nurses often receive higher salaries than their non-certified counterparts.
• Improved Patient Outcomes: Nurses with the PCCN® certification are better equipped to provide superior patient care in progressive care settings.
• Professional Recognition: The PCCN® certification is a respected credential that signals your commitment to excellence in nursing.

For Jhoniel, the most compelling reason to earn his certification was the opportunity to improve patient care. “Studying for the exams allows you to apply what you learn at the bedside and fill in any knowledge gaps you might not have been aware of,” he shares.

Best Study Prep To Pass the PCCN®

Nicole Kupchik’s certification prep material came highly recommended to Jhoniel. He credits Nicole Kupchiks on demand PCCN certification review course as well as her PCCN practice question book. The PCCN® practice question book  includes 3 full tests with 450 practice questions and provides answers and rationales for each question. The number of questions for each disease state mimics the breakdown of questions on the PCCN® exam. Jhoniel emphasizes the importance of giving yourself enough time in the day to review rationales. 

Jhoniel’s Study Routine: Time Management and Consistency

An organized and consistent study routine is key to success in any certification exam, especially the PCCN®. Jhoniel’s study approach involved time management, motivation, and focusing on one exam topic each day. He would review the content for the day, complete practice questions, and then move on to the next topic. As the exam date drew nearer, he concentrated more on answering practice questions and reviewing his weak areas.

Self-Care Tips for Critical Care Nurses

Nursing is a demanding and selfless profession, and it’s easy to forget to take care of yourself while caring for others. Jhoniel reminds fellow nurses to prioritize their well-being, too.

Take that vacation, use your PTO, and allow yourself time to recover! The hospitals will still be there whether or not you take a day off.

When asked about the most fulfilling part about being a nurse, Jhoniel immediately has his patients in mind. “seeing that the more I know the better outcomes my patients have. I can advocate for certain things with much more confidence and understanding as to why I am advocating for them.”

Earning your PCCN® certification is a vital step toward advancing your nursing career and improving patient care. Whether you’re looking to deepen your knowledge, increase your earning potential, or take on more leadership opportunities, the PCCN® certification can help you achieve these goals. By following a structured study routine, utilizing quality study materials, and practicing self-care, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a Progressive Care Certified Nurse like Jhoniel Santiago.

Ready to take the next step in your nursing career? Start preparing for the PCCN® exam today with the best study materials and expert advice available!