March 18, 2026

Certified Nurses Day: Spotlight #3

(SACRAMENTO)

Thursday, March 19, is Certified Nurses Day, an annual celebration recognizing nurses who have earned and maintained the highest credentials in their specialty.

In honor of the occasion, we are highlighting several of our certified nurses and sharing why they chose to pursue certification and what it means to them.

Lester Allen Christian Arocena, BSN, RN, CNOR
Clinical Nurse II – PAV3 Main OR
Certified Nurse Operating Room (CNOR)

“I chose to become certified to have a more professional credibility with my career other than my experience. Being a CNOR gave me validation not just for myself as a foreign-educated nurse, but also to the institution I work with and most especially the patients under my care. It also made me more efficient and reliable team member as I am knowledgeable with the up-to-date AORN standards and putting it to practice which centers not just patient but also all the surgical team member's safety.”

Roumelia Decontreaus, BSN, RN, CNRN, SCRN
Administrative Nurse II – E7 Neuroscience Specialties/Epilepsy Monitoring Unit
Certification in Neuroscience Nurses (CNRN), SCRN Stroke Certification (SCRN)

“I’ve gained so much knowledge and confidence in almost 30 years on the same unit. It gives me validation and professional credibility. I’m dedicated to this field, and it amazes me to see such advancement in the world of Neuroscience. I am truly grateful.”

Alex DePew, MSN, RN, CEN, TCRN, MICN
Professional Development AN2 – Emergency Department
Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN), Trauma Certified Registered Nurse (TCRN), Mobile Intensive Care Nurse (MICN)

“Having my specialty certifications in emergency and trauma nursing exemplifies my commitment to professional growth and development in this specialty of nursing. As an educator and a leader, my specialty certifications reinstate my commitment to evidence-based practice, education, and improving patient and health outcomes.”