Absolutely. Each question on the Beacon Award application allows for and requires
a quantitative response (in this case, CCRN's or CCNS's/total RNs as a percent),
as well as a qualitative response. It is within the qualitative response section
that we want to know more about your "culture of certification." For example,
perhaps 40% of the RN staff on your unit are certified, however one year ago you
were at 30% and 2 years ago at 20%. What was done to facilitate the growth? What
is your 1 to 5 year plan? Perhaps there is a plan to reach 65% in 2 years. If so,
what is that plan? Are there study groups? Does the hospital provide reimbursement
to sit for the exam? Does the hospital have a career path that includes certification?
No one question will make or break the ability for a unit to receive the Beacon
Award, particularly if there is a plan to meet standards not currently being met,
and there are metrics in place to demonstrate these are being tracked and measured
to demonstrate and achieve progress.
