...Nursing Competencies Between the Associate Level Prepared Nurse and Baccalaureate Degree Prepared Nurse - Including a Patient Case Scenario Elizabeth A. Borowiak NRS 430V-0109 09/07/2014 ADN vs. BSN – The Big Debate The ADN/BSN debate has been going on for decades. This conflict could possibly negatively affect nurses, our profession and ultimately the patients we serve. There will always be nurses who will excel in the field independent of their educational preparation. Patient’s conditions and the healthcare environment are becoming more complex and having a better-educated workforce helps to improve patient outcomes, but how? What are the differences between a nurse who has her ADN degree versus an RN with a BSN degree? Are there advantages of being a BSN prepared nurse? Nurses today have a difficult time choosing between the Associates Degree in Nursing (ADN) and the Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing (BSN). One might ask, “Why should a nurse take the BSN route when they can take the ADN route and still be a Registered Nurse (RN) in less time and cost” (Moore, 2009). Yes, you can still be an RN, but studies show the ADN prepared nurse will approach clinical situations differently than that of a BSN prepared nurse. The skills differ in many ways, and the BSN prepared nurse is better for patient outcomes. The Associate Degree program teaches nurses the fundamentals and basics of nursing. “The ADN focuses on bedside nursing and technical aspects of the job” (Moore...
Words: 1213 - Pages: 5
...Running head: EXPLORED DIFFERENCES OF ADN PREPARED NURSES VS. BSN Explored Differences of ADN Prepared Nurses vs. BSN Prepared Nurses Michelle Jester Grand Canyon University Professional Dynamics Nursing 430V Sylvia Robertson April 26, 2012 Explored Differences of ADN Prepared Nurses vs. BSN Prepared Nurses In this paper I would like to explore the differences between Associate Degree Prepared nurses and Baccalaureate prepared nurses. I will discuss the education and training of both types of nurses. I will also discuss how they function in different practice settings, envisioned and actual current functioning. The educational preparation of both types of nurses will be explored in determining how each type would approach a complex patient care situation and the type of nursing care they would provide. Prior to the 1950’s nurses in the United States were either prepared for beginning nursing careers in hospital based hands on learning Diploma Programs or in colleges in Bachelors of Science Degree, (BSN) programs. At that time in society there became a need for more nurses to provide care. The need for more registered continues until this day. Based on that need a program to train nurses was developed and called the Associate Degree in Nursing, (ADN).(Cresia & Friberg, n.d.) The BSN programs in colleges include in their education of nurses two years of general education courses in math, science, sociology, etc. Then two years are spent learning...
Words: 1126 - Pages: 5
...Educational Preparation of Registered Nurses: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) vs. Baccalaureate Prepared Nurses (BSN) Donna Rodriguez Grand Canyon University Professional Dynamics NRS 430V Jayme Goodner September 28, 2013 Educational Preparation of Registered Nurses: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) vs. Baccalaureate Prepared Nurses (BSN) The purpose of this paper is to discuss the educational preparation of the Associate Degree nurse (ADN) versus the Baccalaureate prepared Nurse (BSN). This will be accomplished by first exploring the differences in competencies between nurses based on degree level and with the use of a patient care example to describe the difference in the nursing approach based on formal educational preparation. Currently there are two paths to obtaining a registered nursing certification the ADN versus the BSN. The reasons for the development of the ADN nursing programs were simple. It was a matter of supply and demand, and a necessary solution to a problem. In the year of 1951, after the war a huge nursing shortage existed. It was at that time that a nurse educator named Mildred Montag made a proposition to prepare nurse technicians in 2-year associate degree community colleges. A 5-year study of ADN graduates noted preparation was successful, as the nurses passed their exams for licensure and demonstrated the ability to practice nursing with competence (Creasia & Friberg, 2011). The typical ADN degree is comprised of an average of 70 credit...
Words: 1025 - Pages: 5
...Running head: ADN vs. BSN ADN vs. BSN ADN vs. BSN When I read the assignment for this paper, I thought the answers were clear cut and easy. As I was researching for the paper, I found that I was becoming extremely defensive in the cases where studies were attempting to prove Associate-Degree Registered Nurses were not as competent as Baccalaureate-Degree Registered Nurses. I felt personally attacked. When I asked myself why I was taking this course to further my education and proceed towards obtaining a Baccalaureate-Degree, the answers became clear and obvious once again. In researching the differences in competencies of nurses prepared at the associate-degree level verses the baccalaureate-degree in the nursing field there was little evidence to show a significant difference in initial practice. Both ADN and BSN nursing graduates are required to pass the same National Licensure Council Examination (NCLEX). BSN and ADN nurses initially practice at a similar level. (Davis-Martin & Skalak, 1992, p. 27). In the both ADN and BSN nursing programs students are prepared with courses in ethics, nursing process, critical thinking, accountability, and basic understanding of cultural diversity among the nursing curriculum. Yet there are some basic preparation differences. BSN prepared nurses are required to take courses in liberal arts and humanities which create a well diverse or well-rounded student. The BSN program also requires courses in community health, and more...
Words: 897 - Pages: 4
...Canyon University: Professional Dynamics December 6, 2015 BSN vs. ADN The discussion of rather an associate’s or bachelor’s degree should be the required educational experience of future nurses is one that will not end until one or the other is completely phased out. Some healthcare facilities have already begun the process of requiring their nurses to have a BSN versus an ADN upon hiring. A major difference between the two degrees is that a BSN readily prepares an individual for more advanced positions than an ADN, such as nurse manager. The BSN also has more preparation for entrance into an advanced degree program, such as nurse practitioner. It has reached a point where nurses are being put in positions to advocate for large groups of individuals, be involved in the politics of healthcare, and serve as a representative for nurses everywhere; however, there are only few nurses taking on these grand roles. Lack of preparation, knowledge, and ceasing further education is to blame. Obtaining a BSN as expressed by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN, 2015) “enhances both clinical competency and care delivery”. This presents another difference between the two degrees. Another difference between the ADN and BSN is that the clinical experience for both the patient and nurse is observingly different. A study done to explore the clinical differences between a nurse with an ADN vs a nurse with a BSN expressed that many times the nurse’s critical thinking skills...
Words: 907 - Pages: 4
...Competency Differences Between ADN vs BSN in Nursing Grand Canyon University: Professional Dynamics Competency Differences For ADN vs BSN in Nursing Are all registered nurses created equal and the same? To simply put it, no they are not. A registered nurse may be prepared at the diploma level, associate-degree level, baccalaureate-degree level, master degree level, and some possess a doctoral degree. The focus of this paper will be directed at the differences in competencies between nurses prepared at the associate-degree (ADN) level and nurses prepared at the baccalaureate-degree (BSN) level. Graduates from either degree must pass an examination as put forth by the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) in order to become a licensed registered nurse. The NCLEX exam is the same for both degrees even though their prepared education is different. Three major differences in nursing competencies include education, nursing judgment, and professional identity. The following paragraphs will review and discuss how nursing care or approaches to decision making may differ upon the educational background of a registered nurse. First and foremost, “baccalaureate nursing programs encompass all of the course work taught in associate degree and diploma programs plus a more in-depth treatment of the physical and social sciences, nursing research, public and community health, nursing management, and the humanities” ("Impact of Education," 2014, para. 4). The additional...
Words: 956 - Pages: 4
...For many years, society has debated about the nursing degree. What are the differences? What are the similarities? As nurses we have the opportunity to choose different levels of education. Which include: associate degree, baccalaureate degree, masters’ degree and nurse practitioner. In beginning we need to understand “What is nursing” in general? As defined by the ANA: Nursing is the protection, promotion, and optimization of health and abilities, prevention of illness and injury, alleviation of suffering through the diagnosis and treatment of human response, and advocacy in the care of individuals, families, communities, and populations. In my eyes nursing involves the use of critical thinking and clinical judgment to help us understand a client’s response to actual needs. Both ADN and BSN prepared nurses can provide the similar clinical bedside nursing skills, however, ADN prepared nurses training prepares them for specific patient care diagnoses and situations. BSN prepared nurses training prepares them for a more holistic approach, such as decision making, delegating, and oversight. However, the debate still turns to ADN vs BSN. ADN vs. BSN: Differences in competencies ADN: Associate Degree Nursing Associate degree programs are designed to train students to provide entry level care in a hospital setting. The ADN is an attractive option for many due to shortened program time and the reduced tuition rate. Associate degree nursing programs...
Words: 916 - Pages: 4
...Associate Degree Program vs Bachelor’s Degree Program for Nursing Associate Degree Program vs Bachelor’s Degree Program for Nursing To become a registered nurse, one must graduate from an accredited nursing program and pass the NCLEX exam. There are different routes one may take to become a registered nurse. These routes include a diploma, associate degree, or baccalaureate degree program. The diploma program was the core of nurse educating until the 1960’s. The typical diploma program lasts three years. This program focuses on clinical experience and direct patient care. Over the years, the diploma programs have decreased. In 2010, there was only 54 accredited diploma programs. Since diploma programs are not as common as associate degree programs or bachelor’s degree programs, this paper will compare the ADN and BSN programs and explain why having a bachelor degree in nursing is a benefit to not only the nurse, but also the hospital and the patient. Associate vs. Bachelor’s Degree Programs Associate degree programs typically last two years, but the student is required to take other courses to fulfill graduation requirements. According to Creasia & Friberg (2011),”the ADN program prepares the nurse for direct patient care for secondary care settings, such as community hospitals and long term care facilities”. Many people choose an ADN program because community colleges are less expensive than going to a university. Community colleges can also be more accessible...
Words: 1022 - Pages: 5
...ADN VS BSN | Associate Vs. Baccalaureate Prepared Nurses | GCU : NRS-430V Professional Dynamics – Jessica Dane | | Differences between an Associate and a Baccalaureate Prepared Nurse Before I can go on explaining the differences between an associate and a baccalaureate prepared nurse, I have to answer the important question of, what is nursing? Nursing is more than just medicine treating a health problem. Nursing incorporates both medicine and humanity by taking care of a patient in a health sense and a mental sense. There are three degrees available to the public in order for them to become registered nurses. A Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing, also called a BSN, undergoes four years of a nursing program in university or college; whereas as in a Associate’s Degree in Nursing, also called an AND, is trained in a community college for two years. A diploma nurse program is a nursing program that is hospital based, extending for about three years. All nurses are a required to take the RN license exam before working as a registered nurse. This test should be taken regardless of the education the nurse received. The formal education of a registered nurse plays a vital role in a health care setting with difficult patient care needs. The nurse training a BSN receives is designed to have more multi focused. The training is taught this way to make the nurse themselves become more efficient in the different areas of health care settings. The primary focuses of the...
Words: 968 - Pages: 4
...ADN VS. BSN: The Differences Anna Hernandez Grand Canyon University ADN VS BSN The Differences New trends in healthcare system are requiring optimal patient outcomes in shorter amount of time period. Patients are requiring more advance care for more complex issues hospitals are now in need of highly skilled, trained professionals to provide this level of care. The quality of patient care and outcome of the patient depends a lot on the level of education of the nurse. Case studies have proven that where positive patient outcomes have been linked to nurses that have a higher level of education Baccalaureate prepared. With that being said one of the main differences between the ADN vs. the BSN is the level of education. There are three educational pathways to become a Registered Nurse 1. Three-year diploma program. 2. Two year Associate Degree program offered at a community college 3. Is a four year program Baccalaureate Degree program. (AACN, 2014, #3) An Associates degree in nursing is earned over a course of two years and the curriculum is more technical and bedside focused (Creasia &Friberg, 2011). The Bachelor of Science in nursing includes the same course work as the ADN. The BSN is more in depth in the treatment of the physical and social sciences, nursing research, public and community health, nursing management and humanities (AACN, 2014, para#4) According to the AACN “ The additional course work enhances the students professional development, prepares...
Words: 1373 - Pages: 6
...BSN is better than ADN really? Grand Canyon University Grand Canyon University NRS 430V November 3, 2013 Education Preparation Paper With the focus on economical, Political, and technological advances, the healthcare is moving at a rapid pace in today’s world. To meet the consumers educational healthcare needs they are looking for the safest and most effective care they can receive. There are differences in collegiate competencies between nurses prepared at the associate degree (ADN) level versus those with a bachelorette degree (BSN). Scope of practice and state regulations are the same for either nurse. However, how the nurse cares for or approaches decision-making tends differ between the two entities. Allowing nurses to be academically prepared in the workplace and to offer the community professional knowledge needed to care for their families and loved ones with preventive care and improve patient outcomes (Sexton, Hunt, Cox, Teasley, & Carrol, 2008, p. 105) Differences in Competencies Associate Degree programs are offered at community colleges around the country. Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) provides and efficient, economical pathway to becoming a registered nurse (Raines & Taglaireni, 2008). The number of ADN programs around the country has steadily increased since being introduced in 1958 with about 1000 programs across the country (Raines & Taglaireni, 2008). The ADN program is shorter and more concise which focuses on the clinical skills and...
Words: 1247 - Pages: 5
...Educational Preparation ADN vs BSN Maria Valdez Grand Canyon University Annette Saint Educational Preparation ADN vs BSN We, as students, in the United States of America have the remarkably wonderful opportunity to have many educational avenues to pursue. As a nursing student we have the ability to enter into different programs. You have the 3-year diploma program, which is administered in the hospital setting, the Associate Degree 2-year (ADN) which is acquired at a Community College or the four-year Baccalaureate Degree (BSN) which is awarded at a University. Regardless of what pathway is chosen by the graduate you still have to sit and take the same boards also known as the NCLEX-RN Licensing Examination. Baccalaureate nursing graduates have all the education of a diploma and an associate degree nurse but have a more in depth understanding of nursing research, nursing leadership, including management, humanities, and public health nursing (April 2009). This extra education gives a comprehensive understanding on many social, cultural, economic and political issues (2009). In 1965 there was a 3-yr study done by the American Nurses Association (ANA). It issued “A Position Paper on Education Preparation for Nurse Practioners and Assistants to Nurses.” The main point that was made is the “the education of all of those who are licensed to practice nursing should take place in institutions of higher education” (2009). Nursing Education is being associated with...
Words: 900 - Pages: 4
...ADN Vs BSN ADN's vs. BSN's, the difference Professional Dynamics NRS-430V Leigh Ann Tovar November 25, 2012 ADN's vs. BSN's, the difference Does the fact that a nurse has completed the boards really mean they are equal to all those working with them in the field? Does a BSN really mean better or just someone who spent some more money to get a nicer title? As a patient in a hospital prior to getting my RN I can say that I never looked at the abbreviations after the title on someone. If it said RN then I knew they were a RN and that’s all I thought I cared about. I assumed that the care and knowledge that was being provided to me would be the same across the board, unless I just got a lazy nurse. Going through nursing school first as a LPN and then as a RN has given me a broad picture at the many variances in nurses out there. I can remember times as a patient when I was a LPN and seeing the care that was being provided to me and just shocked at the overall lack of care provided, the sloppiness of the skills being performed, and the overall lack of standard precautions. As I completed school and began to work beside other RN’s I can see the differences, but now I look at it from a different perspective as well. I am looking at those abbreviations behind the RN. I find that I am not alone here. “The public's perception of the nurse is the individual who comes to their home to deliver care or who answers their call light in the acute care setting. While most are unaware...
Words: 1082 - Pages: 5
...Running head: Associate vs. Bachelor Nurses Associate vs. Bachelor Nurses: Which is Better? Adams State College: NRS-430v April 8, 2010 Associate vs. Bachelor Nurses: Which is Better? Over 20 years of experience in the nursing workforce has included working with LPN/LVN, Diploma RN, ADN and BSN prepared nurses. Many of these nurses have had numerous years of real life experience, while others have been recent graduates. The BSN prepared nurse typically provides a higher level of safety, experience, and holistic care to patients in comparison to the ADN prepared nurse. BSN prepared nurses will be key to implementing changes in healthcare. For example, working in a Labor and Delivery unit can be full of joy and terror. During labor, many complications can arise for both the mother and baby. One such complication is uterine rupture, which requires quick action on the part of the healthcare team. In observing nursing care provided by both an associate prepared nurse and a bachelor prepared nurse making decisions during this emergency demonstrated key differences. The ADN nurse went through a mental checklist, reviewing the fetal monitoring strip, narrowing down the causes of the incident, reassuring the patient while preparing for the stat C-section. The BSN nurse also performed these tasks, but involved the patient’s family/support system in the educational process and collaborated with the provider for the optimal outcome. Florence Nightingale was passionate...
Words: 925 - Pages: 4
...student, traditional vs. non-traditional, parental expectations, socioeconomic status, time and distance. How does one maneuver through the decision process? “Regardless of the reasons, the system of nursing education to both gain entry into the profession as well as advance within the profession is chaotic, confusing and redundant” (Frieberg & Creasia, 2016). The history of the development of nursing as a profession offers some explanation for these various avenues to obtaining a degree, but history does not tell nurses how to overcome the dilemma of which path to take. Individual nurses must determine for themselves which educational level suites their needs. The nursing profession on the other hand has evidence to support higher education over the ease of Associate and Diploma programs. Baccalaureate Degree Program Baccalaureate degree nursing programs, also called Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) were the first avenue available to receive a nursing degree. Established in 1909, and not entirely taking off until after World War II, these “programs were five years in length and consisted of two years of general education followed by three years of nursing” (Frieberg & Creasia, 2016). Currently a BSN program is comprised of two years of general education and two years of nursing. Costs of these programs are variable. BSN prepared nurses are ready for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) upon completion of the program. These “4 year nurses” are trained to...
Words: 816 - Pages: 4
