...Becoming a Competent Nurse: ASN vs. BSN The history of nursing education has evolved through the centuries. The Baccalaureate degree began with formal education in the hospitals and slowly moved into colleges and universities. With nursing shortages in the United States during and following World War II, the Associates degree was proposed to be a temporary need to help increase the amount of educated nurses in the workforce. (Creasia & Friberg, 2011). Recently, there have been many ongoing debates on which degree should be required before a student is able to receive the RN licensure- Diploma, Associated Degree, or Baccalaureate Degree. The answers that may be heard vary from organization to organization, each having research to support their decision. Many have argued that regardless of the reasons, the pathway to becoming an educated nurse is disorganized and confusing. Many say that change is needed, and many suggest, that there be only one way to become a professional nurse (Creasia & Friberg, 2011). Outlined below are the competencies for each degree and how it applies to the medical settings. The Competencies of an Associate Degree Nurse Associate degree programs (ASN) offer students an opportunity to become a competent nurse, and once completed, is eligible to take the NCLEX-RN and work as a licensed Register Nurse (RN). The ASN program can take 2-3 years and is designed to educate and train to be “technical nurses” and provide entry level care in hospitals. Each...
Words: 1058 - Pages: 5
...Abstract Competency Differences, ASN vs. BSN Nurses A nurse is a healthcare professional, who in collaboration with other members of a health care team is responsible for the treatment, safety, and recovery of acutely or chronically ill individuals. Nurses are also accountable for the health promotion and maintenance of families, communities, populations, and the treatment of life-threatening emergencies in a wide range of health care settings. Nurses perform a range of clinical and non-clinical functions necessary to the delivery of health care and may also be involved in medical and nursing research. This paper will reflect the differences in the necessary competencies for nurses prepared at the associate degree (ADN) and baccalaureate of science (BSN) level. Both the ADN and BSN level, allow the individual to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). After successfully completing the NCLEX, both the ADN and BSN nurse are knowledgeable enough to complete physical assessments, intravenous, and drug administration. Both are also knowledgeable of medical equipment. ADN’s and BSN’s are competent to demonstrate life-saving practices, like airway management, cardiac monitoring oxygen delivery, drains, and wound care. According to Mahaffey, 2002 the Associate Degree (AD) nursing program originated during a period when the nursing personnel shortage was extensive enough, to prepare a practitioner capable of providing direct and safe nursing care under...
Words: 267 - Pages: 2
...relationships. Nursing was still at its early infancy, with graduate nurses having very little skill set, knowledge of advanced technologies, or experience with the medical field (Friberg, 2016, p.14). One solution was to group the inexperienced nurses with the experienced nurses and doctors in large rooms, giving rise to the introduction of specialty units; ICU, CCU. The experienced nurses observed the great benefits of training and educating the new nurses with this technique and, “formed national specialty organizations…these organizations practice standards and developed continuing educations programs and certification for their respective emerging clinical specialties (Fairman and Lynaugh,1998; Keeling, 2004). The Diploma, ADN, and BSN students who are...
Words: 806 - Pages: 4
...Competency Differences between RN Prepared by ASN Program and BSN Program. Grand Canyon University: NRS-430V Professional Dynamics October 22, 2012 Competency Differences between RN Prepared by ASN Program and BSN Program. The differences between nurses prepared to the job as associate degree nurses and baccalaureate degree nurses can be unnoticeable because both graduate as entry level nurses and sit for the same licensing examination – the NCLEX-RN, which tests technical competencies for basic practice as a nurse and gives ASNs and BSNs the same title – Registered Nurse. The associate degree was proposed for training technician RNs in time of shortage of nurses, about 60 years ago, in short two-year technical program. “This nurse was intended to be a “bed side nurse” who was not burdened with administrative responsibilities” (Joel, 2011, p.232). They are prepared to work under supervision and direction of nurses prepared at higher level education – baccalaureate degree nurses. The BSN program is four-year educational program that includes liberal arts classes. This program prepares new graduated nurses to start nursing practice in all kinds of health care settings. It is “the only basic program offering both theory and practice in public health and community health nursing. There is also content in administrative and teaching principles” (Joel, A.L. 2011, p.234). In this program a future Registered Nurse expands written and spoken communication...
Words: 886 - Pages: 4
... to become a registered nurse (RN). Differences in Competences of ADN VS. BSN Nurse There have been studies that showed that investments in highly qualified and educated nurses produce better patient outcomes. A study of Magnet hospitals in Pennsylvania with higher proportion of baccalaureate prepared nurses revealed that patients in magnet hospitals had lower rate of inpatient death within 30 days and lower odds of failure-to-rescue compared with patients cared for in non-Magnet hospitals (Mc Hugh et al., 2012).Other studies observed the consequence of nursing practice; skills on cancer patients going through surgery showed that the educational level of a nurse has a vital impact on patient health. The BSN nurses were linked with lower mortality and failure-to-rescue rates confirming the view that if a higher proportion of staff nurses have at least a baccalaureate-level education; this would have a positive effect on a patient outcome, and will also reduce their stay in the hospital. ASSOCIATE NURSE VS. BACCALAUREATE NURSE Patient Case Scenario Using a patient case scenario, a known male hypertensive (high blood pressure) patient on medical floor may be reported by a medical assistant to have an elevated blood pressure after consuming 2 cups of coffee and have an argument with a family member. The ADN nursemaid repeat the BP and then proceed to medicate the patient while the BSN nurse may question and assess the patient further, taking into consideration...
Words: 754 - Pages: 4
...produce different competencies of nursing from one another, a nurse with higher education possess qualities to provide higher level of care. Associate Degree Nursing Associate degree nursing is a two year technical academic program, developed due to a nursing shortage by Mildred Montag in 1952, that combines general education of nursing and clinical ( Creasier & Friberg, 2011, p. 27). Registered Nurses at an associate degree level are able to function adequately in the intermediate level with the amount of time they are taught in their clinical setting (Masters 1989, pg. 391). The general education of nursing provided in an Associate Degree level of nursing is limited to the theories and leadership roles of bachelor degree students, “…BSN graduates are prepared are prepared as generalists to practice nursing in beginning leadership positions in a variety of settings” ( Creasier & Friberg, 2011 p. 25). Upon entering the workforce much of the associate’s competency is learning the nurses endure are in the clinical...
Words: 1052 - Pages: 5
...major differences between these degrees and several similarities. Firstly, the history behind these degrees, how they came to being, and where education levels are headed to in the future. Then patient care and the direct and indirect impact on the patient will be discussed. The Associate Degree for Nursing In society today the associate of nursing degree is a fairly common achievement. It typically involves three years of full time attendance, taking undergraduate courses at a community or junior college with an emphasis on a particular area of study (thefreedictionary). Those who are studying for a nursing degree at a community college are typically working towards an Associate Degree of Applied Science (AAS) with an emphasis in nursing (ASN) or an Associate Degree of Nursing (ADN). History and Creation of the Associate Degree for Nursing Prior to WWII the associate degree was not offered. Most nurses were trained in schools through larger hospitals across the United States. According to Conceptual Foundations: The Bridge to Professional Nursing Practice (2011), there were more than 4000 hospital programs training nurses in the year 1910. These programs typically required two to three years of intense work. They were more apprenticeships then formal schools. Much of the learning was done on the job and directly with the patients with some classes after patient care was finished (Creasia & Friberg, 2011). Post-WWII created a need for nurses as the “baby boomers” were born....
Words: 1286 - Pages: 6
...Associate Degree versus Baccalaureate prepared Nurses Liza Mosley Grand Canyon University: NRS-430V January 10, 2016 The Nursing Profession is diverse and offers individuals the opportunity to become Registered Nurses through Diploma, Associate, Bachelors, Masters, and Doctorate programs. Diploma and Associate programs are two year programs that can be taken through hospital programs or community colleges. Bachelor program are four year program taught at senior colleges and universities and often is required to obtain a graduate degree in Nursing such as Masters and Doctorate degrees. Both programs generally have an admission process, there are some prerequisite general education and health sciences course required to be completed prior to being admitted to the program, along with background checks and admission to the college or university is required before submitting an application to the program. The Associate and Bachelor degrees prepare nurses to take the National Council Licensure Examination more commonly called the NCLEX-RN. These two degrees have many similarities, however there are also differences and that is what will be explored in this paper. An Associate’s degree in Nursing is a fast way to enter the nursing profession, it's a two year program which consist of general education and nursing core curriculum such as Adult health, Pediatrics, Obstetrics/Gynecology, Psychiatry, Community Health and Geriatrics. This degree trains nurses to be more bedside...
Words: 873 - Pages: 4
...higher degree of education only amounts to 50% and those with an associate’s 36.1% and 13.9% for diploma nurses. Research has showed registered nurses with a baccalaureate degree and higher have decreased the mortality rate and resulted in fewer adverse reactions in patient (Creating a More Highly Qualified Nursing Workforce. (2009). Nurse Leaders, higher institutions of learning, and employers are raising the awareness for nurses to continue their education in order to create better patient outcomes. Two Year ASN Degree An associate’s of science degree in nursing is a two year program. The duration of the program concentrates on clinical rotation which prepares the nurse for hands on bed side experience in a clinical setting. Core content focuses on a variety of topics but focuses on clinical rotation to introduce the nurse to bed side practice. An ASN degree offers a cheaper tuition for the student if cost is a factor in deciphering between pursuing an ASN or BSN in nursing. Areas of employment can include can include hospitals, long term care...
Words: 1243 - Pages: 5
...get my ASN, but wasn’t sure what the difference between ASN vs. BSN really was. I had spoken to several nurses and no one seemed to be able to give me much of a difference that would make me sway one way or another. I did some internet research and my big sell was for going with my ASN. I could do it faster and cheaper than my bachelors and I didn’t have to spend extra time taking classes that at the time I felt were not going to be important in my becoming a nurse. However, after being out of school for several years and functioning as an ASN nurse and working with a variety of nurses with various degrees of ASN vs. BSN, I can understand and appreciate the differences and know now that the knowledge and skills obtained by completing the BSN program are not only important in enhancing personal growth and development, but are also important in providing better patient care. There are some significant differences between the ASN and BSN programs of study, despite the fact both degrees require taking the same licensure test in the NCLEX. The ASN programs provide a cheaper route that students can take through a community college setting. It takes less time to compete this curriculum because there are fewer credits required. ASN programs do cover arts and sciences however these are covered more in depth in the BSN programs. ("The Differences Between an Associate Degree Vs. a Bachelor's Degree for a Registered Nurse") While spending the extra time in taking a BSN program...
Words: 840 - Pages: 4
...The Difference between BSN and ADN The Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree can be acquired in 2 years at a university, community college, vocational school or even some hospitals. An ASN educational program readies nurses to deliver direct patient treatment or carry out other qualified nursing duties and responsibilities inside the field of health care. This 2-year degree can be the groundwork for more advanced nursing academic options like a bachelor’s or master’s in nursing. It is a relatively fast way to get into the nursing field and start earning income. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree typically takes 4 years to complete at the numerous universities and colleges that offer these programs. The BSN readies nurses to perform in most medical environments. While the job environments for RN’s with BSN degrees may be almost identical to that of RN’s with an ASN degree, those who completed BSN programs have additional preparation and training for clinical jobs that could include management, fiscal duties, medical personnel scheduling, administration, leadership and research roles (ASN vs RSN,. 2024). The main difference is the length of time and the amount of credits required to complete the program. An ADN typically takes 2 years to complete while a BSN will take 4 years to complete (including the time spent taking the prerequisites to enter the program.) There are also accelerated BSN programs (18-21 months) for students who have already obtained a...
Words: 532 - Pages: 3
...ASSOCIATE VS. BACCALAUREATE NURSES 1 Title: The Difference Between Competencies between an Associate's Level and a Baccalaureate Level Nurse- A Patient care Scenario Name: Susan M. Kreienbrink Grand Canyon University: NRS-430V July 26th, 2014 ASSOCIATE VS. BACCALAUREATE NURSES 2 It’s interesting how the educational requirements for nurses have changed over the years. Just over a 150 years ago you didn’t even need a formal education to be a nurse, in fact, there was none to be had. Now professional nursing organizations are pushing for 80% of nurses to have a bachelor's degree by 2020 (Chard, 2013). This paper will discuss the difference in competencies between nurses prepared at the associate’s degree level versus the baccalaureate degree level. Using a clinical case scenario, it will also describe how nursing care and the approach to decision making may differ based on the educational preparedness of the nurse. Associate Degree Nursing An associates degree in nursing can be acquired in two years with about a years worth of prerequisites. As associate’s degree in nursing (ASN) prepares nurses to deliver direct patient care within the scope of their practise. It is a relatively quick way to become a nurse and was founded by Mildred Montage in 1956, due to the severity of nursing shortage in the post war years. This program was offered to reduce the nursing shortage and the success of the program was measured in terms of the satisfactory level of clinical nursing...
Words: 1648 - Pages: 7
...Zoom In Zoom Out Page 1 of 3 Running Head: COMPETENCY DIFFERENCES, ASN VS. BSN NURSES Competency Differences, ASN vs. BSN Nurses By, Genethia Guerrero Grand Canyon University: NRS-430V Professional Dynamics (0102) Kimberly Stout March 6, 2011 Abstract Competency Differences, ASN vs. BSN Nurses A nurse is a healthcare professional, who in collaboration with other members of a health care team is responsible for the treatment, safety, and recovery of acutely or chronically ill individuals. Nurses are also accountable for the health promotion and maintenance of families, communities, populations, and the treatment of life-threatening emergencies in a wide range of health care settings. Nurses perform a range of clinical and non-clinical functions necessary to the delivery of health care and may also be involved in medical and nursing research. This paper will reflect the differences in the necessary competencies for nurses prepared at the associate degree (ADN) and baccalaureate of science (BSN) level. Both the ADN and BSN level, allow the individual to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). After successfully completing the NCLEX, both the ADN and BSN nurse are knowledgeable enough to complete physical assessments, intravenous, and drug administration. Both are also knowledgeable of medical equipment. ADN’s and BSN’s are competent to demonstrate life-saving practices, like airway management, cardiac monitoring oxygen delivery, drains, and...
Words: 305 - Pages: 2
...Competency Differences between ADN and BSN Nurses James Brown Grand Canyon University Professional Dynamics NRS-430V-0101 July 5, 2013 Competency Differences between ADN and BSN Nurses Each potential or practicing nurses, have heard the furious examinations in regard to the benefits of an ADN/ASN vs. BSN. To date, all efforts on discovering which one scores over the other has done nothing more than led to considerable confusion. Each of these nursing degree programs possesses a unique set of benefits. (Scheckel, 2009) Each program is designed to prepare the student to take the National Council Licensure Examination also referred to as the NCLEX. Following successfully completion the NCLEX, graduates are well-informed to accomplish physical evaluations, and to administer medications. Nursing graduates from these degree programs are similarly well-informed of medical equipment and are proficient in life resuscitating procedures, such as wound care, lacerations, drains, cardiovascular oxygen transport. In today’s nursing environment, more and more are expected from nurses which includes more than just following physician’s orders and commencing IVs. (Forster, 2008)Today’s nurse should be able to make vital decisions regarding a patient’s care. (Forster, 2008)There are significant differences between programs that will ultimately influence nursing care and end-results for patients. (Clarke, Donaldson, 2008)This paper will review the differences in the competency...
Words: 1385 - Pages: 6
...Associates Degree vs Bachelorette Degree D’ann J. Farr Grand Canyon University: NRS-430V Professional Dynamics February 9, 2014 Associate Degree vs Bachelorette Degree In the beginning nursing was regarded as women’s work and no formal training was required. In the 1800’s, Florence Nightingale began the first educational program for nurses (Wood, 2011). Throughout the years came new diseases, illness, and an ever growing need for better nursing. These changes provoked changes in nursing education and the way they were to be educated. We are at a crossroads again. Medicine is ever changing and we are again faced with the need for better education to care for the population. The Bachelorette Degree involves all the information and education that an Associate Degree has, but with the expansion of knowledge to prepare for all health care settings and a four year degree. The bachelorette level incorporates the roles of assessing, critical thinking, communicating, providing care, teaching, and leading. The education is designed to provide, direct, and evaluate client-centered care while focusing on the person as an integrated whole (GCU, 2011). Having a bachelorette degree does not mean a person is smarter, but does allow for them to be better prepared for an ever changing and complicated medical environment. Having a bachelorette degree also opens doors to grow within nursing. BSN nurses are able to advance into positions of administration which can also lay the...
Words: 1261 - Pages: 6
