...The Age Old Debate: ADN vs BSN, a comparison Seth Ronning Grand Canyon University Professional Dynamics Kimberly Hammerton September 4, 2013 The Age Old Debate: ADN vs BSN, a comparison In battles of good versus evil through out history, good almost always triumphs in the end. For example the New York Yankees have won a total of twenty seven World Series Championships compared to the Boston Red Sox who have won a meager seven World Series. Another example would be Darth Vader returning from the dark side to vanquish the evil Emperor by means of hurling the villain over a rail to unseen depths and certain death. In the case of Bachelors level nursing compared to Associates level nursing however, there really is no good versus evil to compare. There is no dark versus light there is just a different level of attained educational degree. The question is what does the difference in education level provide in the level of competency of each nurse. The aim of this paper is to discuss what is the definition of competency in nursing and how is it measured, what are the advantages in nursing care for associates and bachelors degree care, and how do the differences in educational level affect overall patient outcomes. What is competency in nursing? The American Nurses Association, or ANA, defines competency by stating, “competency is an expected level of performance that results from an integration of knowledge, skills, abilities, and judgment” (ANA 2004). A nurses’ ability...
Words: 1686 - Pages: 7
...Differences in competencies between ADN and BSN nurses Registered nurses comprise the largest sector in the health care field. 2008 National Sample Survey of Registered Nurses conducted by the Health Resources And Services Administration (HRSA) says that nursing is one of the nation's biggest health Care Profession and it comprises more than 3 million registered nurses (RNs) in the United States. It is a dynamic profession and learning is important for nurses to update their knowledge with Increased complexity of the healthcare needs of today and into the future. Debate regarding the minimum educational requirement for the nurses has been going over years with still no definite answer. Nurse with RN license may be educated to the level of BSN (Bachelor degree of nursing) or ADN (associate degree in nursing). This paper will focus on the differences in the competencies between BSN AND ADN nurses. ADN ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) is the 2-3 year Associate degree level, which can be obtained at a community college or junior college. The associate degree level of nursing was originated when there was a shortage for nurses during Second World War. Primarily AND nurses were known as technical personnel’s by working under the professional nurses’ supervision and by assisting them. Eventually associate degree level of nursing became more popular and is considered as an attractive path for those who want a shortened, less expensive way to become...
Words: 1284 - Pages: 6
...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
...Running Head: COMPETENCY DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ADN AND BSN LEVEL OF NURSING Competency difference between ADN and BSN level of Nursing Presented to Professor Mandy Sheriff By Marlene Holmes Grand Canyon University: NRS-430-102 November 4, 2012 Competency difference between ADN and BSN level of Nursing This paper will look at the competencies between the Associate Degree of Nursing (ADN), and the Bachelors of Science Degree in Nursing (BSN) as it relates to the educational requirements for both programs. It will also discuss a patient care scenario where both nursing disciplines provide nursing care or the approach in the decision making process based on educational preparation of the nurse. When we speak of where the nursing profession is heading in the future, we must take a look at our past in order to fully understand current practices. Originally, nursing was not seen as a “profession” it was a job for the undesirables (Friberg & Creasia, 2010). The undesirable were men and woman who would help the sick, poor and abandoned individual and nurse the sick back to health. It was not until the 1800’s when Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, helped to change the way things were being done in military hospital as it relates to taking care of the sick. She fought for sanitary changes in the hospitals as well as educational advancement for nursing practices (Friberg & Creasia , 2010). In the 1860’s Nightingale established...
Words: 1292 - Pages: 6
...Running head: THE DIFFERENCE IN COMPETENCIES OF AN ADN AND A BSN 1 The Difference in Competencies of a Nurse with an ADN versus a Nurse with a BSN Stacey M. Kestler Grand Canyon University THE DIFFERENCE IN COMPETENCIES OF AN ADN AND A BSN 2 Abstract According to American Association of Colleges of Nursing fact sheet: Creating a More Highly Qualified Nursing Workforce, there are 2.8 million registered nurses currently active and practicing, of these 55% hold a bachelor’s degree, and by 2020 they estimate that number will increase to 80%. This is important because what will happen to the nurses that currently have an ADN or are about to enter into the ADN program? What is the difference between a nurse with an ADN and a nurse with a BSN, and is one better than the other? Nurses make the decisions to get their ADN or BSN for many different reasons, but there are many journals and articles in publication that statically show that having a BSN is safer for patients. In the October 2014 issue of Medical Care, it published that having a 10% increase in the proportion of bachelor educated nurses decreased mortality rates by 10.9%. In the May 2014 issue of The Lancet, it published that European hospitals with a higher number of BSN nurses showed that patients were more likely to live after facing complications due to surgery. In conclusion Nancy Burgess states in her article ADN versus BSN Nursing Degree…Which will it be?, that...
Words: 1284 - Pages: 6
...Overview of Difference in Competencies between ADN and BSN Overview of Difference in Competencies between Nurses Prepared at the Associate degree level versus the baccalaureate degree level in nursing Overview of Difference in Competencies between Nurses Prepared at the Associate degree level versus the baccalaureate degree level in nursing The common goal of the nursing community worldwide is to make sure that quality care is given for all patient population. While doing this, it also wants to maintain the credentials, code of ethics, standards, competencies, and continuing education. Both ADN and BSN nurses give care in a holistic method for individuals who are healthy and sick and are from all ages and cultures. An individual’s physical, emotional, psychological, intellectual, social and spiritual needs will be considered by the nurses while giving care to that person. The profession of nursing is a combination of physical science, social science, nursing theory and technology in caring for individuals. Showing empathy towards patients’ needs is one of the great qualities for which nurses are well known. Some of the core nursing competencies include nursing knowledge, patient-centered care, professionalism, ethics, leadership & communication. ADN and BSN programs help nurses to gain expertise in specific areas of practice. In the quality of patient care provided by ADN and BSN prepared nurses, there is no difference. But...
Words: 1305 - Pages: 6
...Running Head: DIFFERENCES IN COMPETENCIES BETWEEN ADN VS BSN 1 Educational Preparation: Differences in Competencies Between Nurses Prepared at Associates-Degree Level Versus the Baccalaureate-Degree Level in Nursing Jenny Curie Grand Canyon University NRS-430V Tara Harris February 10, 2013 DIFFERENCES IN COMPETENCIES BETWEEN ADN VS BSN 2 Competency is defined as the quality of being competent. To be competent one must possess required skill, knowledge, qualification, or capacity. The profession of nursing requires a skillset and knowledge base that is specific to its kind. There are many options in one’s educational journey to obtain a nursing degree. Nursing is the largest health care profession in our society today with three million registered nurses nationwide (AACN, Nursing Workforce). Along with the growing profession and the ever growing need for quality health care the debate over what qualifies a nurse to be skillful and competent in her profession and what type of education is required is at the for front. What are the differences in competency between a nurse with an associates degree and one holding a baccalaureate degree? Of the three million registered nurses nationwide 50% of those hold a baccalaureate degree while 36.1% have an associates degree, and 13% a diploma (AACN, Nursing Workforce). The quality in which we provide patient care and the need for those in this field to obtain higher levels of education...
Words: 1646 - Pages: 7
... The difference between an Associate's degree education (ADN) and a Bachelor's degree education (BSN) has been a topic of discussion between nurses for years. Completion of either an ADN program or a BSN program will result in the same outcome, a Registered Nurse Licensure (RN). There are some nurses that would argue that there is no need to obtain a BSN degree unless the nurse is planning to work in a management position. Then, there are some nurses that would argue that in the very near future a BSN degree will be required in order to work in an acute care environment. Choosing one over the other depends on financial factors, the length of time to be spent in an educational program, and long-term career goals (Morrow, 2008). All of the arguments may have their validities, but in this paper this writer will describe the differences in competencies between nurses with an ADN education and a BSN education. There are two primary goals of any nursing program whether it is an ADN program or a BSN program. The first goal is to endow their nursing students with the appropriate tools to provide safe and competent care to patients. The second is to prepare their students to complete and pass the National Council of State Boards of Nursing Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). The NCLEX provides computer adaptive testing that measures minimal competence for safe professional nursing practice. Exam content includes health promotion, pharmacotherapeutics, nursing assessment...
Words: 992 - Pages: 4
...the rules and practices, then they become a safer driver (Hill, 2010). Similarly are the different levels of nursing. The new driver can be compared to the associate degree nurse (ADN) and as knowledge is mastered, the nurse continues to a baccalaureate degree (BSN) and then to an advanced practice degree (APN). The progression of academic experience promotes higher levels of patient care (Spencer, 2008). The purpose of this paper is to use scholarly research to discuss the difference in competencies between nurses prepared at the ADN level verses the BSN level, using a patient care situation to describe differences in approach to nursing care. First we will define the difference in competencies between an ADN, BSN, and APN. Differences in Competencies Educational levels in nursing hold different competencies. All nurses must pass a state board exam, regardless of their educational level, to enter the profession. There are four levels of nursing which include the ADN, BSN, APN, and clinical nurse leader (CNL). Although the CNL will not be discussed, the ADN, BSN, and APN will be discussed in detail (Cresaia & Friberg, 2010). First, we will discuss the ADN. Associates Degree (ADN) The ADN requires two years of study in nursing theory and skills. The ADN provides education for entry level of care in a hospital setting (Cresaia & Friberg, 2010). The advantages of an ADN are the strong clinical skills, a shortened period of time for completion, and reduced costs...
Words: 1154 - Pages: 5
...Differences in Competencies between Associate Degree Nurses and Baccalaureate Degree Nurses “BSN in 10” bills either pending or under legislation in some states, will require nurses to obtain a bachelor’s degree in 10 years. Even more hospitals and healthcare facilities seeking Magnet status seem to be encouraging Associate Degree nurses to return to school or obtain a BSN before applying for employment. Nursing is a profession that involves skills and knowledge to provide optimum level of care. ADN versus BSN has been an issue of controversy for years. The primary focus of this paper will be discussing the differences in competencies of nurses educated in an ADN level to those educated in a BSN level. These differences include varying curriculum requirements, education content and patient outcomes. The first difference in ADN and BSN is the amount of education. The associate degree in nursing includes two years in the nursing program and can be obtained at a community or junior college. However, there are prerequisite courses required for entry into the nursing program, so ADN programs can be at least 3 years in length. Today, earning an ADN takes almost as long as earning a BSN (Orsolini-Hain & Waters, 2009). In contrast, baccalaureate degree in nursing includes four academic years of college at a four year university. Both degrees take the same NCLEX board exam for licensing and both degrees enter into the same position as a registered nurse, with similar wages and benefits...
Words: 891 - Pages: 4
...Running head: COMPETENCY DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ADN AND BSN LEVEL OF NURSING Competency Difference between ADN and BSN Level of Nursing Mari Rennie Grand Canyon University: Professional Dynamics July 8, 2012 Abstract This paper will show the associate-degree level of nursing being a foundation to a higher level of learning as in the baccalaureate-degree level all the way to the doctorate level, while also distinguishing the appropriate requirements. A patient care scenario will also be included to provide an example of how these two levels would differ in the real world. Competency Difference between ADN and BSN Level of Nursing There are many different levels of nursing that are determined by education. Education has a lengthy history dating back to the 1800s that includes nursing. There are several competencies that differ between the associate-degree levels in nursing versus the baccalaureate-degree level in nursing. The more education that is received the higher level of learning is accomplished, which in turn leads to advancement in career, less chance of errors, a more educated community, a less hostile environment, and better outcomes (Berry, 10/2010). Education Education has always been a vital aspect in life. In the realm of nursing education we have to thank Florence Nightingale for the start of the education movement back in the 1800s. She was very strong in her beliefs and wanted to find a career that would change women’s lives...
Words: 1345 - Pages: 6
...ADN vs. BSN : Difference in Competencies Between Associate-Degree Nurses Versus the Baccalaureate-Degree Level in Nursing Toby John Grand Canyon University: NRS-430V 11/24/13 The profession of nursing in the healthcare setting focuses on the care of individuals, families, and communities so that they may acquire, preserve, or recover optimum quality of life and health. There are many differences in competencies based on the department or specialty the nurse will be working in, such as managed care, neonatal, or educational basis. This paper will explore some of the differences in competencies between nurses with an associates degree (ADN) and nurses with a baccalaureate degree (BSN). "Competencies are defined as the knowledge and skills required to perform in a specific job." (Hardy,1999). In nursing, competencies define the duties and skills required for many positions and establish the educational requirements needed to qualify for each nursing position. According to a study done in 1988 by Texas Higher Education Community Board, "Competencies across the spectrum of nursing education varies in complexity, depth, and breadth." (Potter 2006). Competencies of an ADN include, knowledgeable and principled behaviors, effectively working with others in providing healthcare, applying knowledge from theory to clinical settings, and to practice with a secure and caring demeanor. A baccalaureate degree nurse has the same competencies as an ADN as well as critical...
Words: 1087 - Pages: 5
...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
...The Difference Between Associate Degree and Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing Increasing clinical understanding and the rising complexities in the health care technologies today requires that professional nurses be educated and competent to the baccalaureate level. Nurses with their RN can be educated to the level of associates degree or to baccalaureate degree. According to the Grand Canyon University Baccalaureate Curriculum Model, the associates degree level nurse differs from the baccalaureate level nurse in three main competencies; client, nurse, and nursing education. One of the different competencies between associate degree (ADN) and Baccalaureate degree (BSN) is type of client or patients they are prepared to treat and the care setting which they are allowed to work in. “ADN nurses are educated to provide nursing care to persons with similar health alterations in structured setting, whereas BSN-prepared nurses are educated to engage in independent thinking and to provide nursing care to persons with complex and differing health alterations within a variety of settings, including the community” (Hood, 2010, pg. 18). Health care is not only centered as inpatient hospitals but throughout the community as preventive care as well, leaving ADN nurses in a disadvantage. Nurses now a day have to be able to practice across multiple settings. Contrasting the graduates of an ADN program with the graduate of a BSN program; the BSN nurse is prepared to practice in all health...
Words: 1035 - Pages: 5
...Differences in Competencies, ADN v. BSN Jett Jordan-Woodbury Grand Canyon University RN-BSN NRS 430v: Professional Dynamics Linda Permoda May 11, 2012 Difference in Competencies Between an Associate Degree and a Bachelor Degree Nurse While an Associate Degree Nurse, also known as an ADN, and Bachelor of Science in nursing nurse, also known as a BSN, are given the same preliminary education relating to patient treatment, there are notable differences in their professional and educational preparation, as well as their competencies. These two degrees have different levels of patient interaction and contact, as well as job expectations. ADN and BSN programs focus on different aspects and angles of education and job focus that all ultimately lead to taking optimal care of the patient. This paper compares the differences between those two areas and how important it is for these two degrees to work together as a team to provide the best possible outcome for all patients and nurses involved. This paper will touch on the differences between the educational levels and focuses, the clinical competencies, and the job expectations of the ADN and the BSN. Educational Competencies and Job Expectations The educational levels of the ADN and the BSN differ drastically, they can last anywhere from two to four years in length and focus on many different aspects of the nursing profession, but they all are geared toward the same outcome, optimal care of the patient. In the two year...
Words: 991 - Pages: 4
