BC Cancer CNA Certification Award: Impacting Nursing Careers and Practice

Nurse: Joany Tang (Clinical Research Unit, BC Cancer Vancouver)

Testimonial: "Receiving funding for the CNA certification gave me both the financial means and encouragement to study the material and reflect on my practice working in the ACU. Achieving the CNA certification has boosted my confidence as an oncology-trained nurse and has validated my skills. This has had an impact on how I interact with my patients, my nursing judgement and my ability to take on new challenges and responsibilities. Since obtaining the certification, I transitioned to a new role within BC Cancer, now working in the Clinical Research Unit. This opportunity has expanded my oncology knowledge further, building on top of the foundation the CNA certification has provided."   

Nurse: Maddie Village (Systemic Therapy, BC Cancer Abbotsford)

Testimonial: "Receiving funding for my CHPCN(C) allowed me to deepen my knowledge and skills in hospice palliative care. This certification not only enhanced my professional growth but also paved the path to new roles and opportunities within BC Cancer."  

Nurse: Kathryn Arab (Systemic Therapy ACCU, BC cancer Vancouver)

Testimonial: "Receiving funding for my CNA certification in oncology was a pivotal moment in my professional journey, opening doors to opportunities I hadn't fully envisioned. The certification process significantly deepened my knowledge base in oncology. This enhanced understanding directly translated into a tangible improvement in the quality of care I could provide to my patients. I felt more confident in my ability to address their concerns, educate them about their treatment and potential side effects, offer informed recommendations for symptom management, and provide crucial emotional support by empowering them with knowledge about their condition. Experiencing this growth firsthand through advancing my education also ignited a passion within me for teaching others and encouraging them to deepen and expand their own knowledge and approach to care.

Achieving my CNA certification in oncology filled me with immense pride and a newfound sense of professional confidence. It validated my commitment to specialized nursing care and fueled my passion for this complex and rewarding field.

The impact on my professional development and career progression has been significant. The certification ignited a deeper interest in oncology, driving my pursuit of further knowledge and involvement in research. This specialization has undoubtedly been a catalyst for my career advancement, enabling me to explore and successfully transition into leadership roles. First, I served as a Clinical Resource Nurse, and now, I have the privilege of working as a Clinical Nurse Educator, where I can share my expertise and passion with other nurses. While the pursuit of further education and career growth naturally involves dedication, the sense of fulfillment and the ability to make a greater impact on patient care have positively influenced my overall work-life balance, making the demands feel more meaningful and manageable. The CNA certification was truly an investment in both my professional growth and my ability to provide exceptional care."

Nurse: Megan Crosby (Interim director, Professional Practice Nursing , BC Cancer Prince George)

Testimonial: "Receiving funding for CNA recertification provided me with the opportunity to continue my commitment to lifelong learning and professional practice. CNA certification is a way to demonstrate to myself, my peers, and my employer that I am committed to maintaining competence and specialized knowledge in the field of oncology. "  

Nurse: Devi Milligan (Systemic Therapy, BC Cancer Prince George)

Testimonial: "Earning my CNA certification has not only deepened my knowledge and confidence in delivering high-quality care to oncology patients, but it has also reaffirmed my dedication to oncology nursing as a specialized field. This certification confirms the currency of my clinical knowledge and ensures I am equipped with up-to-date best practices essential for caring for patients with complex needs. It reflects my commitment to the nursing profession and to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to those affected by cancer.
Pursuing national certification challenged me to test my skills and knowledge at a higher standard.  It has increased my credibility among peers, healthcare institutions, and the public, while enhancing recognition for my commitment to professional growth."  

Nurse: Rebecca Morash (Hereditary Cancer Program, BC Cancer Vancouver)

Testimonial: "In 2023, I was fortunate to receive funding through the NAHRKT BC Cancer CNA Certification Award Program to complete my CNA certification and exam. This opportunity not only expanded my knowledge, enhancing the care I provide to my patients, but also gave me the credibility and recognition that comes with being formally acknowledged for my experience in oncology nursing. Earning my CNA certification has opened doors to specialized education available only to certified nurses in this field (including opportunities for further specialization), as well as career growth and job opportunities for me within PHSA. It has also brought a greater sense of satisfaction to my work. This experience has been crucial in solidifying my commitment to oncology nursing, and the funding support plays an essential role in providing equal opportunities for BC Cancer nurses to achieve similar goals."