NAME: Leslie McRae-Matthews, MSN RN CGRN
WORK: Staff nurse, Orlando VA Medical Center
YEARS IN GI: 18
YEARS CERTIFIED IN GI: 9

For Leslie, gaining the CGRN was such an important goal that she didn’t give up — even when faced with unsuccessful attempts. 

Being CGRN certified was a goal that I was determined to achieve. When I initially took the exam and did not pass, I was disappointed but unwavering in my desire to obtain certification. I adjusted my approach to preparing for the exam, asking more questions during procedures to gain additional hands-on experience in addition to my studying. Now that I am certified, my colleagues look to me as a “go-to” resource and knowledge center. I found that having CGRN credentials gave me a competitive edge when changing jobs, further validating my desire to keep moving forward when I initially did not pass the exam.

Leslie McRae-Matthews, MSN RN CGRN