1. Why did you choose a career in infection prevention and control?
Certification is a measure of knowledge, skills and clinical judgment within infection prevention and control. It is a mark of excellence that distinguishes you as being at the top of your profession. Certification also makes a statement about who you are—a dedicated individual who goes above and beyond, not because you have to, but because you are committed to being the best you can be.
2. What advice would you give someone who is interested in an infection prevention and control career?
The financial rewards for having certification can be in the form of higher pay and bonuses, some employers offering even bigger bonuses as you earn multiple credentials. Specialty certified RNs also have enhanced earnings due to better opportunities for promotions, taking on added responsibilities (which are offered to them because they are certified) such as teaching classes or serving as a preceptor, or because certification advances them on a career or clinical ladder. So I would suggest to continue having that work experience in infection prevention and control and aim to obtain a certification with CBIC.
3. What does being a CIC® mean to you?
Being a CIC means opportunities for promotion and higher compensation. Confidence and self-worth. Efficiency and accuracy. And most importantly, improved patient outcomes. All are benefits of board certification. CIC gives value to my career, my organization and patients. The accomplishment and personal satisfaction that comes with professional certification builds confidence and that confidence contributes to greater nursing self-efficacy. Being a CIC puts me in prime position for professional success, growth and recognition. The higher knowledge, expertise and self-efficacy leads to higher performance. With higher performance, we can expect higher compensation, higher career advancement, better employment options and greater job security. Being a CIC means I am likely to experience higher career satisfaction, higher work engagement, higher professional commitment and higher retention.
4. What was the best studying method for you when preparing for the initial certification examination?
I read and studied the majority of the references indicated in the CBIC website as well as I did a lot of practice exams from different sources and books. Everyday after work, I sit on my table and starts to digest the voluminous reading materials I have.
5. What advice would you give someone pursuing certification?
If we really wanted something then we have to persevere and study hard to achieved our goal and that is to be a CIC.
6. How do you stay up-to-date on infection prevention and control practices?
I usually visit WHO and CDC websites for any updates about infection prevention and control. I usually read also some online journals and articles.
7. Are you part of an APIC or IPAC Canada chapter? If so, would you recommend it to others?
As of the moment, I am not part of any infection prevention and control organizations whether be in the US, Canada or here in Middle East particularly here in UAE.
8. How has the CIC® helped you grow professionally and in your career?
Certification gives me a confidence that I have the knowledge and expertise I need when caring for patients. The knowledge that comes with certification also helps me feel more confident working with physicians and coworkers, and they definitely appreciate that me that I have that extra expertise. Certification keeps me abreast of new information and best practices, ensuring I have the current clinical knowledge and judgment necessary to perform well in the dynamic and fluid environment.
9. Are there any CIC® stories that keep you up at night? This can be related to the examination or a specific patient story that stands out.
Even after passing the CIC examination, it has already been my practice that after work to sit on my study table and read the references I have and I feel anxious if I miss a day without reading anything from my resources.