Healthcare professionals who invest in their skills often find more opportunities, flexibility, and substantial earning potential. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to advance, earning a professional certification can help you stand out in a competitive field and deepen your expertise in specific areas of care.

At PS Companies, we work with healthcare professionals across Wisconsin and beyond—many of whom have taken their careers to the next level by pursuing certifications that align with their goals. Below are some of the most valuable certifications that can strengthen your résumé and expand your options.

1. Basic Life Support (BLS)

Often a baseline requirement for clinical roles, BLS certification ensures you’re trained to respond in emergency situations using CPR, AEDs, and other basic life-saving skills. Most healthcare workers, including CNAs, MAs, RNs, and LPNs, must keep this certification current.

2. Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS)

ACLS goes beyond BLS and is typically required for nurses working in emergency or high-acuity settings. This certification covers advanced interventions during cardiac and respiratory emergencies and is a strong differentiator for ICU, ER, and telemetry nurses.

3. Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)

For those working with children, especially in pediatric or emergency departments, PALS certification demonstrates proficiency in recognizing and responding to pediatric emergencies. It’s essential for nurses working in family clinics, hospitals, and urgent care settings that serve children.

4. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

This entry-level certification is the foundation for many healthcare professionals. CNAs provide critical day-to-day support in long-term care, hospitals, and rehabilitation facilities. It’s also a common first step for those planning to pursue LPN or RN credentials.

5. Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)

CMAs are in high demand across clinics, specialty practices, and outpatient care centers. This certification validates clinical and administrative skills and positions you as a well-rounded team member in fast-paced environments.

6. Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)

Phlebotomy certification is beneficial for medical assistants or lab professionals who draw blood. This credential ensures proper technique and safety practices, which are essential for diagnostic accuracy and patient comfort.

7. NIH Stroke Scale Certification (NIHSS)

Many hospitals require this quick certification for nurses working in neurology or stroke-focused units. It trains you to accurately assess stroke severity using a standardized method—a key component in early intervention and treatment.

8. Wound Care Certification (WCC, CWCN)

Wound care specialists are increasingly in demand, especially in long-term care, home health, and rehab settings. This certification equips RNs, LPNs, and NPs with skills to assess, treat, and manage complex wounds.

9. Infection Control Certification (CIC or equivalent)

This certification is a strong asset as infection prevention becomes more central to healthcare operations. It’s especially valuable for nurses and healthcare professionals in leadership, compliance, or long-term care settings.

10. Certified Professional Coder (CPC)

Healthcare careers aren’t all clinical. The CPC certification is ideal for those working in billing, administration, or compliance. It demonstrates your ability to correctly code procedures and diagnoses, which is vital for insurance reimbursements and record accuracy.

Why Certifications Matter

Certifications don’t just help you meet job requirements—they show initiative, increase your credibility, and can lead to higher pay and more specialized roles. Many healthcare employers prefer or require certification to maintain quality standards and regulatory compliance.

Support from PS Companies

If you’ve recently earned a new certification or are considering pursuing one, we’d love to hear about it. Our team regularly works with healthcare employers seeking certified professionals in long-term care, hospital systems, outpatient clinics, and more.

Looking to take the next step in your healthcare career?
Browse our current openings here: [https://ps-companies.com/jobs/]