Final answer:
A certified athletic trainer is an individual who has passed the NATABOC exam, which certifies their knowledge and skills in athletic training, a specialized healthcare profession.
Step-by-step explanation:
A certified athletic trainer is someone who has successfully passed the national certification examination set forth by the NATABOC, which is the National Athletic Trainers' Association Board of Certification. The NATABOC exam is a comprehensive test that assesses a candidate's knowledge and skills in the field of athletic training. To become certified, candidates must complete a degree from an accredited athletic training program and then pass the NATABOC certification examination. This certification is crucial for an individual to practice as a professional athletic trainer, as it ensures a standardized level of competence and knowledge in the healthcare profession, specifically related to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of athletic injuries.