...RUNNING HEAD: why a bachelor of science in nursing? Why a bachelor of science in nursing? Why a bachelor of science in nursing? According to Black(2014), Registered nurses are the largest group of healthcare providers in the United States, and as the healthcare system continues to evolve , many new opportunities and roles are being developed that will use nursing skills in different ways. As an experienced nurse, I did not think I would need to go back to school, for a bachelor in nursing, to be able to deliver high quality care to my patients in these new roles. I have been delivering high quality care, and did not think I could learn new methods of delivering care. As I am reading the Essentials of Baccalaureate Nursing, I could easily place myself in some of the Essentials. I realize that “maintaining competence, continue personal and professional growth”, are also part of my responsibilities. Black (2014) Being a nurse is caring for strangers, and a stranger may be someone with a different belief or culture. A baccalaureate generalist nurse will be able to practice holistic nursing care, which focuses on the mind, body and spirit as well as emotions. As a nurse in interventional radiology, I encounter patients every day who are undergoing procedures. They have questions already answered by the doctor, but want and need...
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...Running head: Differences in Competencies Associate degree versus Baccalaureate degree The purpose of this essay is to compare compentencies between the associate and bachelor nursing programs .Competency is an individuals actual performance in particular situation, described by how well the individual integrates knowledge, attitudes, skills and behaviour in delivering care according to expectations(Gurvis& Grey,1995; Nolan, 1998). The Difference between associate degree and bachelors is not much at the beginning of nursing career because at that time they have both graduated and are new in their profession and are still trying to establish themselves as a nurse and are trying to be competent in basic nursing skills. Despite the differences in both programs RNs have to appear for the same entry level exam (Nclex) . This exam tests for minimum technical competency for safe entry into basic nursing practice. A difference in competencies between ADN and BSN prepared nurses plays an important role in safety of patients and quality of care rendered. Nurse prepared with the baccalaureate and higher degrees provide better patient outcomes.(Aiken el, al, 2003) According to JCAHO (2006). Competency for nurses can be defined as “a determination of an individual skills, knowledge, and capability to meet defined expectations” (JCAHO, 2006, p.394). The differences between them is professional as well as educational preparation. ADN programs usually take two years...
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...of academic development that prospective nursing students can select from when contemplating entering into the field. The two most frequently achieved pathways in nursing education for an entrance position, is an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree in nursing. A survey organized by the Health Resources and Services Administration in 2008, demonstrated that fifty percent of nurses retained a bachelors degree or higher and that at least thirty-six percent received an associate’s degree ("Fact sheet: Creating," 2012). However, the variance between the degree levels statistically is not the only differentiating consideration. The primary disparities among an associates and bachelors degree in nursing are curriculum based, patient outcome related, administrative preparation and opportunity. Presently, either approach to nursing study is an acceptable path to establish a career in the discipline; however the education levels differ considerably in these particular areas of concentration. An associate degree program in nursing serves to instruct pupils on fundamental nursing skills, in comparison, a bachelor degree is focused on progressive courses of research and nursing principles. The associate level is two years in length and based regularly at community colleges; as a result graduates are able to execute a transition to the workforce more promptly. A prerequisite of general studies is required to obtain acceptance to a nursing program at this intermediate level in which...
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...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...
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...Bachelor Degree versus Associate Degree So, Why? The reason why this is the million dollar question is because one will not know until they are at the next level. For that reason I referred to my husband who has an advance degree in nursing. He graduated more than twenty years ago with an associate degree and went on to obtain a bachelor degree so after. He stated that when “he was in school the pending threat was that Associate Degree Nurses (ADNs) will be phased out in the future.” For that reason he went on to obtain his bachelor. However, as the years passed he realized that time was repeating itself and nurses over the decades were being told year after year ADNs will be phased out. But it was both far from the truth but gradually becoming a reality. In the book, Nursing Against the Odds, Susan Gordon identified that in the 1990’s nursing was under attack through the establishment of the managed care system. She stated that “many hospitals responded with cuts and restructuring plans that drastically increased the workloads of individual nurses, even as the cost pressures also meant the average hospital patient was sicker and the average stay shorter, so the patient actually needed far more care.” Now my husband a 1992 graduate confirmed this by identifying working on a 44 bed cardiac post-open heart unit with only four registered nurses and two licensed practical nurses each shift. The nurse to patient ratio was 10:1 with a medication nurse. At that time he thought how...
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...Associate degree level versus the baccalaureate degree level of nursing According to the Bureau of labor statistics ,the occupation of Registered Nurses is the largest in the healthcare sector, and the job opportunities are expected to increase faster through 2018. A Bachelors of Science in Nursing [BSN] and Associate degree in Nursing [ADN] both make candidates eligible for becoming RNs. Associate degree in nursing programs of study are two to three year programs of study offered by technical, community and junior colleges . BSN programs on the other hand are four year courses offered by colleges and universities . In some Universities students are given the option of taking their State Board exam to receive their ADN while continuing their BSN, this allows them to work while they complete their education. For both programs students are trained in class and outside in clinical settings for hands on experience. While the ADN program focuses on giving students the entry-level skills they need to take care of patients, the BSN is much broader incorporating education ,management and leadership skills. The BSN program also gives students the communication skills they need and empowers them in decision making. Nursing is becoming more comprehensive, with the improved technology and availability of information to the general population , nurses have to continually educate themselves to keep abreast. BSN programs prepare candidates for much broader aspect of healthcare; these...
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...versus the Baccalaureate-Degree level in Nursing. Gillian Gimby Grand Canyon University: NRS-430V August 11, 2013 Discussing the Differences in Competencies between nurses prepared at the Associate-Degree level versus the Baccalaureate-Degree level in Nursing. Nursing has been constantly evolving in every direction of the health care field. In the beginning of nursing it was built and expanded on many frameworks of education/models. In becoming a registered nurse there are many stage: general educations, prerequisites, nursing school of Associate or Baccalaureate degree, Master of Nursing in multiple fields and Doctoral degree. When becoming a registered nurse there consideration of what type of degree. Within this essay I will be viewing the differences between Associate-degree level (ADN) and Baccalaureate-degree level in nursing (BSN). Definition As defined by Wikipedia the definition of Associate -degree nurse is: “is a tertiary education nursing degree which typically takes 2-3 years to complete. This type of degree is usually awarded by community colleges or similar nursing schools. Students awarded an Associate of Science in Nursing are qualified to sit for the NCLEX-RN and apply for licensure as a Registered Nurse”. (Associate of Science in Nursing) As defined by Wikipedia the definition of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing: “is an American and Canadian four-year academic degree in the science and principles of nursing, granted by a tertiary education university...
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...Baccalaureate-degree level in Nursing Mary Khristeen Isidro Professional Dynamics NRS-430V Mrs. Marion Marino-Meyash Associate-degree level versus the Baccalaureate-degree level in Nursing Nurses are an imperative part of the health care team. Working concurrently with doctors, nurses ensure that patients obtain the highest quality of care and execute many of the routine functions of patient treatment. Associate degree nursing (ADN) education developed from Mildred Montag's research and differentiated practice vision in 1952. From the first set of graduates, Montag's differentiated practice vision did not take hold. Lack of differentiation of nurses' role and functions in practice based on education preparation continues today (Mathias, 2009). An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) emphases on the technical standpoints of nursing, rather than the theoretical and academic aspects of nursing usually covered in a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. ADN students will have to accomplish some fundamental prerequisites before taking nursing curriculum, such as courses in writing, social science, history, etc. Nursing-specific module will likely enfold such topics as anatomy and physiology, chemistry, biology, family health, pediatric and geriatric medicine, pharmacology, psychology and mental health. State Boards of Nursing in each state regulate which programs are customary for that state. Upon achievement of a state certified curriculum of study, the nursing candidate will need...
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...What it Takes To Become a Nurse By Sabrynna Escolta  Introduction Nursing is a career that my mother led me to, growing up my career of choice has always been an entrepreneur. Once the economy hit a low point my mother took the opportunity to explain to myself that it is important to choose a career with no chances of the economy effecting my job, which is why I have chosen nursing. When making this discovery, I have realized that nursing is a perfect career for myself. As a nurse being able to help and comfort people are very crucial parts of the job, these are qualities that I entail because of my nurturing personality. Throughout life my goal is to always help as many people as I can, and by becoming a nurse I will be able to become a nurse. What I know… Because I have done so many nursing projects in the past, my knowledge for nursing is impeccable. There are many different degrees in nursing, the most common ones are; associates, bachelors, and masters. As for pay rates I assume that the higher a nurses degree, the higher a nurses pay rate. The nursing salary can average from at thirty-five dollars and up, nurses get paid hourly and work at least twelve hours a week. I also know there are many different types of nurses such as; registered nurses, pediatric nurses, emergency room nurses, and much more. I can imagine that working in an emergency room can be very life changing because of all the incidents a person would see, and I also know that...
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...is given to all, but only few will uptake them, and even fewer are able to see through with the opportunity at hand. This situation in itself can be used to identify the differences in competences between nurses prepared at the associate-degree level versus the baccalaureate degree level. When receiving an education in nursing care, you are taught guideline procedures to handle a situation at hand. However, while practicing nursing care, you may need to deviate from the educational process taught to handle the situation. For example, during your educational process, you may have been taught to handle a fallen patient in a certain manner. However, because of the many complications that the patient may have, you may have to alter the way in which you must handle the patient. Students and educational administrators involved in nursing education are responsible for providing appropriate development and use of nursing knowledge. Nurses can receive either an associate or baccalaureate degree level of education. An Associate degree of Nursing has a duration of 2-3 years for completion. It is provided by community colleges and certain nursing schools. Nursing students with an Associate degree can be license as a Registered Nurse. According to Creasia & Friberg (2011), the Associate degree is deemed successful due to the fact that the...
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...time applying to Excelsior College or if you were enrolled in the School of Nursing within the last five years and have since earned additional collegelevel credit. If you have withdrawn from a business, health sciences, liberal arts, or technology degree program within the last five years, please contact your Academic Advising Office as you may not be required to submit an application. If you are a graduate of a business, health sciences, liberal arts, technology, or nursing degree program, please contact your Academic Advising Office as you may not be required to submit an application. Licensed practical/vocational nurse Licensed massage therapist Certified pharmacy technician School of Nursing Candidates In addition to official transcripts, nursing candidates must submit a copy of a current license or certification to verify professional status in an appropriate health care profession. This license should be mailed with your application or faxed to the Undergraduate Application for Admission Team at 518-464-8833. Bachelor of Science in nursing (BRN) and RN to Master of Science in nursing (MRN) applicants must submit an official transcript showing the completion of associate degree nursing education or RN diploma education. Nursing courses completed at institutions other than Excelsior College are only evaluated upon enrollment. International Nurses: Admission to the associate degree in nursing programs is not open to international students. See page 6 for additional information...
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...maintaining better healthcare for our world today. Obtaining a nursing degree can be reached by Bachelor in nursing (BSN), Associate Degree (ADN), or diploma. The type of degree received depends on how many years of schooling the individual completed. Although both types of nurses provide proficient care, comparing the two degrees bachelor prepared nurses have a higher competence level than associate prepared nurses in today’s society. Associate prepared nurses (ADN) receive their degree after completing two years of higher level education. This degree offers a basic knowledge of nursing care for the lifespan of the patient. The ADN will implement nursing care with integrity, responsibility, caring and high quality. Due to the limited amount education received an ADN nurse may have a lower skill set level than a bachelor prepared nurse. Graduates of ADN programs possess a core of nursing knowledge common to all nursing education routes. (Mahaffey, 2002). Even though they receive the required nursing classes they don’t receive the classes that enhance critical thinking which in turn could lower their competency level. Based on information provided the ADN nurse has an adequate but lower competency level than a BSN nurse. Bachelor prepared nurses (BSN) receive an additional two years of education beyond the ADN. Expect courses in leadership and management, community health or population focused nursing, and evidence based practice. These are the courses that are...
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...Benefits of Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree Nikki Rush State University of New York: The College at Brockport Benefits of Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree Many nurses believe there are benefits to obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree (BSN). “In October 2010, the Institute of Medicine released its landmark report on The Future of Nursing, initiated by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, which called for increasing the number of baccalaureate-prepared nurses in the workforce to 80% by 2020… in response to the demands of evolving healthcare system to meet the changing needs of patients, nurses must achieve higher levels of education” (The American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 2014). In relation to a Bachelor of Science degree, BSN prepared nurses possess clinical and critical decision making skills, and have desirable expected impact and outcomes in the field. Additionally BSN nurses are more sophisticated in nursing care, develop a mastery of skills and techniques learned in nursing school and have better leadership and management skills. One advantage of BSN training is a sophisticated level of nursing skills. BSN prepared nurses demonstrate sophistication in nursing care by being able to practice across critical care, outpatient, community health, clinics and psychiatric health care settings. This instruction leads to and enhances level of care the nurse can provide. Additionally these nurses learn to make quick life of death decisions, arrange...
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...competencies between BSN and ADN. Nursing is a dynamic profession and life long learning is essential for nurses to stay current with the increased complexity of the healthcare needs of today and into the future. In other words, the needs of our patients are changing, as we must change in order to be prepared to better serve that need. Nursing has a long history of formal education which moved out of hospitals and into colleges and universities early last century. The associate degree level of nursing was developed out of a need to produce nurses in response to a shortage during and following World War II. It was a proposed as a temporary solution to a shortage to a shortage but was not intended to replace the professional level of nursing education. The national advisory council on Nurse education and practice, policy advisors to congress and the U.S secretary for health and human services on nursing issues, has urged that at least two thirds of the nurse workforce hold baccalaureate or higher degrees in nursing in 2010. The Veteran’s Administration [VA], the nation’s largest employer of registered nurses, has established the baccalaureate degree as a minimum preparation its nurses must have for promotion beyond the entry –level beginning in 2005 and has committed $50 million over a five year period to help VA nurses obtain baccalaureate or higher nursing degrees. In an article in the September 24, 2003 issue of the journal of the...
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...an ADN or BSN. More often than not, nurses have the same pay and job requirements regardless of the education they have. They must both pass the same NCLEX-RN exam. These are facts that create the question, “why spend the extra time and money?” The Goldmark Report in 1923 was the first to recommend that the entry level of education for professional practice as a registered nurse should be a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree (BSN), and heated debate has raged among nurses over the issue ever since. (NursingDeree.net) With a shortage of nurses after World War II, Mildred Montag explored an alternative to four-year university nursing programs. This developed into the now very popular two-year Associates Degree. According to an article in Working Nurse (Hanink, 2012) , The W.K. Kellogg Foundation funded the initial experiments: seven pilot sites in four states, one of them Pasadena City College. Success was almost immediate; from the very beginning, the graduates had pass rates comparable to hospital and BSN graduates. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), nurses with a BSN are linked with lower mortality rates, fewer medication errors, and positive outcomes (Rosseter, 2011). AACN believes that education plays a direct role in patient outcomes, and that patients deserve the best educated nurses available. Research is showing that there is a connection between...
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