title: Specialty nurse certification effects patient outcomes.
abstract: This article reports on studies that have shown specialty nurses with certification contribute to quality patient outcomes and satisfaction. In addition, nurses who have achieved their specialty certification have perceived intrinsic value, empowerment and heighten collaboration with the health care team.
authors.affiliation: Bellarmine University, Louisville, Kentucky, USA. bwrnfa@bellsouth.net
authors.forename: Brenda L
authors.initials: BL
authors.lastname: Wilkerson
mesh_terms: D002568:Certification; D006801:Humans; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care; D013041:Specialties, Nursing; D014481:United States