
Javier Rivera | BSN, RN, CPAN, CAPA
My Certification Story
My nursing journey began in 2015 as a new graduate in the PACU at a Level II Trauma hospital. I immediately fell in love with PACU nursing, but I had a deep desire to broaden my knowledge and elevate the care I provided. That drive led me to transition into the ICU, where I spent seven years learning and growing as a critical care nurse. Eventually, I returned to PACU, bringing with me the invaluable experience I had gained in the ICU. While I was confident in my skills, I recognized there was still more to learn to ensure I could anticipate and respond to patient needs with even greater precision. I began studying for both the CPAN and CAPA certifications, and as I dug deeper into the material, everything started to click. The rationale behind PACU assessments and interventions became clearer, enhancing not only my understanding but also my ability to teach others. Earning both certifications has given me a renewed sense of confidence and commitment to delivering evidence-based care.
My Study Strategies
ABPANC’s resources were instrumental in helping me identify the most effective study tools for success. I relied heavily on Drain's PeriAnesthesia Nursing: A Critical Care Approach and the Certification Review for PeriAnesthesia Nursing, both of which provided a solid foundation for understanding key concepts. During downtime or while on the go, I frequently used the CPAN/CAPA flashcards from ABPANC to reinforce my learning. These resources played a crucial role in my success.
My Benefits
Becoming certified has significantly enhanced my clinical practice. I no longer rely solely on routine or instruction—I now understand the why behind each assessment and intervention. This deeper knowledge has strengthened my critical thinking and allowed me to provide more intentional, evidence-based care. It’s also empowered me to better educate my patients, helping them recognize key symptoms and understand when to seek immediate attention, ultimately improving outcomes and patient confidence.
My Advice
While studying, I came across a success story by Adam Combs that stuck with me. The nurse wrote, “This exam did NOT determine the type of nurse I was—it was just icing on the cake.” That message gave me peace and perspective. Your worth as a nurse isn’t defined by one test; certification is a meaningful milestone, but it doesn’t reflect the care, compassion, and commitment you bring to every shift. Keep going—you’ve got this.