Nursing is one of those highly fragmented professions with multiple specialty areas. No single organization unifies nursing. I haven't figured that one out.

As soon as I met eligibility requirements, I sat for the Medical-Surgical Certification exam. I consider certification to be one of the prime indicators of quality professional nursing, along with membership in a professional nursing organization. I always knew I wanted to be a nurse practitioner, and my goal is to someday work in an underserved area. Establishing my credentials, gaining experience, and networking with other professionals is helping me to reach that goal.