Here’s how nursing careers used to go: after becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse or Registered Nurse, you embarked on a stable career and usually didn’t think much about continuing your education after that. But as healthcare’s grown more sophisticated, nurses have taken on more responsibility – and now many are earning nursing certifications to boost their pay, their career prospects, and their patients’ outcomes.
We talked to Luis E. Caso Vega, MBA, BSN, RN, CEN, CPEN, NE-BC, TCRN, about the power of continuous learning. An experienced nurse leader, Luis is also a Doctoral student and JEDI advocate with an impressive number of certifications under his belt. He explained why earning certifications can be such a game-changer – both for growing your career and elevating patient care.
“Pursuing specialty certifications is one of the most empowering steps a nurse can take to elevate their practice,” he says. “For me, certification is more than a credential—it’s a statement of professional commitment, clinical excellence, and continued learning. It demonstrates to colleagues, employers, and patients that I’m serious about delivering the highest standard of care in my area of expertise.”
Here’s what Luis had to say about nursing certifications certifications and healthcare careers.
Hi Luis. Can you tell us how nursing certifications certifications benefit a nurse’s facility and patients?
Certified nurses contribute to a culture of excellence and safety. In my experience, patient outcomes improve when they’re cared for by nurses with verified competencies. Facilities gain too — certifications are linked to higher quality metrics, Magnet recognition, and better team morale.
Certification raises the bar across the board.
I’ve heard certifications can help nurses transition into specialized roles or leadership positions. Do you find that to be true?
Absolutely. Many leadership and advanced clinical roles require (or strongly prefer) certification. Certifications demonstrate that a nurse has gone above and beyond licensure to master a specific body of knowledge—whether in trauma, pediatrics, management, or another specialty.
Certification signals to employers that you’re serious about your practice, qualified to make evidence-based decisions, and capable of stepping into roles that demand clinical expertise, accountability, and influence.
For nurses who want to grow in their careers, it’s a form of professional capital that can set you apart in competitive hiring or promotion processes.
What about for travel nurses? Is it an advantage for them?
Without a doubt. Certifications can make you stand out in competitive markets as a travel nurse.
I’ll say here that certifications indicate more than just skill. They signal that you’re adaptable, well-versed in current best practices, and ready to hit the ground running. In my experience, facilities will often prioritize certified travelers because it lowers onboarding risks and improves patient safety.
Can’t argue with that. In terms of salary, can earning nursing certifications certifications lead to higher earning potential? Or negotiating power?
Yes to both. Certified nurses often command higher salaries, especially in specialties like emergency, critical care, and transport nursing.
When it comes to negotiations—whether for base pay, bonuses, or travel stipends—being certified can give you leverage. Employers see that in your profile and they recognize and respect it.
What’s your advice for nurses considering this? What kind of nursing certifications certifications should they pursue?
Start with a certification that aligns with your current role or future goals. If you’re in the emergency department, the CEN or TCRN is a great place to start.
Pediatrics ED? Consider CPEN. Interested in leadership? Go for the NE-BC.
My advice: don’t wait for your facility to offer it—invest in yourself. And if you’re unsure where to begin, find a mentor. I’ve helped many colleagues—from new grads to internationally educated nurses—prepare for and obtain certifications.
Thanks, Luis!!
