Tell us about yourself
I am Kay Ball, PhD, RN, CNOR, CMLSO, FAAN
I have a Ph.D. in Health Related Sciences, Virginia Commonwealth University, MSA (Masters in Science of Administration) from Central Michigan University, and BSN (Bachelors in Science of Nursing) from Otterbein University, Westerville, OH
I have been a Professor of Nursing at Otterbein University since 2010. I am also a perioperative nurse educator and consultant; I work with perioperative nurses, professional organizations, healthcare facilities, industry, and legislative groups.
When did you start working with lasers?
In 1985, when I was hired as the Administrative Director at Grant Laser Center.
Why did you become certified?
Since the 4th edition of my book, Lasers: The Perioperative Challenge, will be published in 2017, I thought I had better take the certification exam to give me more validity. This was long overdue and I'm embarrassed that it took me so long to carve out time to take the exam. My book is often used to help study for the certification exam and I'm now very proud to be among those who are CMLSOs.
I enjoy being a CMLSO as this helps to add validity to my work in laser education. Just like being CNOR (certified nurse in the operating room), I feel that certification is a critical part of my nursing career to help define my focus and demonstrate my excellence.
How has becoming certified benefited you in your career?
I have gained more recognition as an expert in laser technology. Being certified has authenticated and legitimized the specialty of laser technology in my career.