Elevate Your Nursing Career: Essential Certifications and Skills

Nursing has undergone significant changes in the post-pandemic era. A serious nursing shortage, an aging population, a rising prevalence of chronic diseases, adoption of emerging technologies, and a greater focus on preventive care have all contributed to a growing need for nurses with specialized certifications and skills.

From pediatrics to informatics to emergency and operating room nurses, healthcare employers demand skills far beyond what is taught in most nursing education programs. Specialty certifications and advanced credentials can position you to fill critical gaps, opening the door to higher pay and new nursing career opportunities.

Top Nursing Certifications to Pursue in 2025

After earning an associate degree or BSN, taking a certification exam is one of the best ways to pursue nursing career advancement. Consider how these seven specialty certifications can provide access to new opportunities.

1. Certified Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN)

This certification, granted by the American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN), signifies that a critical care nurse has demonstrated expertise in caring for critically ill patients in high-acuity settings.

CCRNS might work in intensive care units, emergency rooms, and trauma centers. Their responsibilities include quickly identifying health issues, stabilizing patients, providing wound care, using medical equipment to monitor vital signs closely, and communicating effectively with distraught family members

2. Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN)

Inpatient nurses who have earned CEN certification from the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing (BCEN) are highly sought after for their specialized skills in triaging patients during emergencies. This certification is valuable for those desiring to pursue nursing practice in fast-paced emergency departments and similar settings.

3. Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN)

Issued by the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB), this certification is issued to nurses who provide evidence-based care to children from the neonatal stage through young adulthood. Though many CPNs work in obstetric acute care settings, some work in schools or community health organizations to manage illnesses and support health and wellness.

4. Certified Nurse Operating Room (CNOR)

With this credential from the Competency & Credentialing Institute (CCI), perioperative nurses provide patient care before, during, and after surgical procedures.

A CNOR’s duties may include handling paperwork, administering medications, and treating postoperative complications. They also assist surgeons by preparing the operating room, passing instruments, and ensuring sterility for infection control.

5. Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Certification (PMHN)

Amid significant behavioral health staffing shortages, nurses with mental health certification from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) are in demand. These nurses conduct mental health assessments to understand patients’ history and overall well-being.

Whether in clinics, hospitals, or primary care settings, someone with a psychiatric specialty nursing certification may be tasked with developing individualized treatment plans, collaborating with psychiatrists and psychologists, and educating patients.

6. Informatics Nursing Certification

An informatics nursing certification from the ANCC is well-suited for nurses interested in healthcare technology and data analysis.

Rather than act as clinical nurse specialists, these nurses work with technology to optimize healthcare and the patient experience. They analyze data to assist with quality improvement initiatives, train staff, and serve as a liaison between nursing staff and the IT department.

7. Nurse Executive Certification

Earning the Nurse Executive Advanced Board Certification (NEA-BC) is a great step for nurses who desire to pursue leadership or administrative roles.

Instead of focusing on clinical practice, this certification program may qualify you for nurse leader positions overseeing patient care, staff development, and operations. Your nursing leadership education may also cover setting best practices for providers and managing budgets.

Must-Have Nursing Skills for Career Advancement

The following nursing skills will help you reach your professional goals.

1. Clinical Skills and Specialty Knowledge

In every nursing field, scientific knowledge and best practices continue to evolve. Staying up to date with continuing education helps you stand out to employers looking for in-demand skills.

2. Tech Proficiency and EMR Systems

The healthcare field is increasingly embracing emerging technologies. Nurses should understand data literacy and informatics, and they must be proficient in the use of Epic, MyChart, and other electronic medical record systems.

3. Leadership and Communication

Every nurse knows how important it is to work with other professionals as part of a patient’s care team. Leadership and communication skills are especially critical for those pursuing management, preceptor, or charge nurse roles.

4. Critical Thinking and Adaptability

The nursing profession is highly dynamic, and nurses must be able to make quick decisions under pressure as conditions shift. These traits are highly valued in crisis response and complex care scenarios.

5. Cultural Competency and DEI Awareness

Nurses may work with patients and professionals from many different backgrounds. Cultural competency skills are essential for delivering equitable care to all.

Benefits of Nursing Certifications for Career Growth

Whether you are wondering how to become a travel nurse or seeking opportunities closer to home, pursuing professional development through nursing certifications can lead to increased job opportunities and better marketability. As you gain sought-after skills, certifications can increase your earning potential and eligibility for promotions.

Additionally, certifications enhance professional credibility and build trust with patients looking for the highest quality care. As you develop new passions, nursing certifications can offer flexibility to move into new roles, such as going from LPN to RN.

How to Choose the Right Certification for Your Career Path

Before you select a certification, decide in what settings and with what populations you want to work. Then, assess your current situation and future goals. Take inventory of your life and consider the costs and time commitment associated with certification. This includes any prerequisites and clinical hours.

With this knowledge, you can find a certification in your desired specialty that matches your needs and goals.

How GHR Healthcare Supports Your Career Advancement

As a nursing staffing agency, GHR Healthcare helps you find roles closely aligned with your certifications. Through our extensive network, we can connect you with opportunities across a range of settings, including hospitals, schools, and community health.

Our expert recruiters provide support and guidance for those pursuing advancement or looking for advice on how to get RN license in another state, and we can help you land a role that fulfills your professional passions.

Prepare for the Future of Nursing Today

As a nurse, building your skillset can help you pivot into new areas aligned with your passions and goals, opening the door to promotions and increased earning potential. Take the next step toward specialization or leadership by investing in certifications to bolster your career.

Whether you are considering a new certification or searching for your next role after earning one, connect with GHR Healthcare to explore career-advancing job opportunities.