Growing up I could hardly ever wait for summer knowing that meant school was out and I was free to sleep-in, swim and watch lots of TV. Now, I realize that summer is the gift we receive for the winter well spent however, it feels like a begrudging payment. The Southwest heat and humidity of Houston, TX can be intolerable at best. I find myself longing for the coolness of January in Texas. I wonder what happened to the days of sleeping in and why is the swimming pool 90 degrees? I also realize that the much needed break never comes or if it does it is very short lived. Well, that is the reality of adulthood and professionalism…

As the summer moves along I think of professionalism and the progress that is being made through the HANCB. We are in a very exciting time in regard to certification. The board of directors is moving quickly toward the goal of obtaining specialty recognition by the American Board of Nursing Specialty for both the ACRN and AACRN. This is a daunting task that at times challenges my adult mentality to see it through. Yet, since it is too hot to sit in the pool, I have challenged the current board of directors to succeed with this task by fall. Obtaining this ABNS recognition will further promote excellence in the field for HIV nursing as well as offer greater credit to our field.

Many organizations are moving toward magnet status and recommend their nursing staff to obtain specialty certification. With this paradigm shift more nurses will need to not only obtain certification but maintain certification. In order to meet this need the HANCB requires a strong dedicated group of individuals who are willing to assist in developing a valid and reliable examination. I must admit, I work with a very diverse group of clinical and academic nurses who get this job done and I thank them for it.

The HANCB is currently accepting competitive nominations either by self or a colleague to sit on this coveted and prestigious voluntary board. The requirements include test item development and the attendance of quarterly telephone conference calls as well as attending the National Board of Directors general meeting prior to the National ANAC conference. Our board will be proud to say they have each added an important component to the HIV/AIDS nurses history by obtaining ABNS recognition. We can also be proud to know that we continue to thrive in developing quality HIV nurses by providing a rigorous certification exam that one can be proud of carrying the credential ACRN or AACRN. Take a moment to consider if this is a part of history that you or a colleague might like to be a part of! www.hancb.org

There is also still time left to nominate someone for ACRN of the year 2008!

 

Until there’s a cure,

Robin

 

Recommended Read:

My Sister’s Keeper by Jodi Picoult

 

2008 ACRN of the Year Nomination Form

2008 HANCB Call For Nominations