The Changing Demand on Nurses
11/28/2013

Transformation and evolution related to basic level of education requirement is evident in the nursing profession. Currently there is a mixed population of educational training and skills working at the same capacity. “The sample survey also shows that 50.0% of the RN workforce holds a baccalaureate or graduate degree while 36.1% earned an associate degree and 13.9% a diploma in nursing.” (Rosseter, 2012) Each program prepares their students with the same basic training to pass the boards required for licensure. However the ability to pass the same standardized test does not equate to equality in educational training or practicing skill level.
The NCLEX tests for minimum technical competency for safe entry into basic nursing practice. Passing rates should be high across all programs preparing new nurses. This exam does not test for differences between graduates of different programs, measure performance over time, or test for all of the knowledge and skills developed through a baccalaureate program. (Creasia & Friberg, 2011)
Studies connecting patient outcome to educational training have enlightened employers prompting a change in the demand for higher educated and skilled nurses in the field especially in the hospital setting.
Developing and producing a skilled work force is not a new concept to nursing. Since the early 1800’s movement toward education in the nursing industry has continually transformed and evolved. Hospitals were the first to offer formal training for nurses. Nightingale transformed this model based on her own experience separating the educational system into a separate entity with its own administration. During the era certification could be achieved through the mail. “Correspondence schools sprang up - graduating students with little theory and no clinical experience.” [