...Competency Differences between ADN and BSN Prepared Nurses Linda Jewell Grand Canyon University Competency Differences between ADN and BSN Prepared Nurses Merriam-Webster defines nurse as: “a person who cares for the sick or infirm; specifically: a licensed health-care professional who practices independently or is supervised by a physician, surgeon, or dentist and who is skilled in promoting and maintaining health”. This definition gives no differentiation between the nurse educated at the Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) level and the nurse educated at the Associate degree of nursing (ADN) level. Many do not realize there is difference between the two. Both nurses subscribe to the same nursing philosophies and teachings but the baccalaureate nurse expands upon those philosophies and teachings to provide a higher standard of care. On a day to day basis, nurses are asked to draw on their training, experiences and education to make decisions about the care of their patients. Many times it is the nurses that suggest treatments and medications to the physicians since they have more one-on-one time with the patients. A BSN educated nurse may think of a treatment or medication based on her course work or even experience on the job that an ADN nurse would not. In many long-term care facilities, the method of treatment of wounds is often left up to the nurse to decide and get approved by the physician. Every nurse has different experiences with what has worked...
Words: 709 - Pages: 3
...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
...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
...Educational Preparation 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...
Words: 992 - Pages: 4
...Running ahead: Differences in Competencies between Nurses Prepared at the Associate Degree Level Versus the Baccalaureate Degree Level 1 Associates Degree Nursing Education vs. Baccalaureate Degree Nursing Education: Differences in Clinical Practice Suja Kuruvilla Grand Canyon University: NRS-430V Professor Lorraine Hoover September 2, 2012 Health care is a field that is changing dramatically. Many practicing nurses have various degrees in nursing like Associate Degree, Diploma, Baccalaureate and Master’s degree. Due to the varying levels of education and training, differences exist between the nurses prepared with an Associate degree (ADN) when compared to those nurses who have trained in a Baccalaureate degree (BSN). Though nurses getting these degrees have their differences in preparation, nurses earning these degrees have adequate theoretical and clinical learning experiences. The license qualifying examination for many states- National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) - does not differentiate between ADN and BSN degree prepared nurses and allows nurses with both degrees to take the licensing examination after completion of the degree regardless of the educational background of the applicant. The differences in competencies between nurses prepared with an ADN compared to those prepared with a BSN include the quality of training and duration...
Words: 1425 - Pages: 6
...Differences Between Associate Degree Nurses and Baccalaureate Degree Nurses Lisa Thayer Grand Canyon University: Professional Dynamics May 12, 2013 Differences Between Associate Degree Nurses and Baccalaureate Degree Nurses Registered nurses who are prepared with a baccalaureate degree are more highly qualified in clinical competency and delivery of care compared with registered nurses who have an associate’s degree. There is very compelling research that shows an association between better patient outcomes and baccalaureate prepared nursing care in the hospital setting. Competencies Clinical competency is the ability to use the knowledge and skills attained to effectively perform as a nurse. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing states that “…education enhances both clinical competency and care delivery” (Rosseter). A higher degree of education should bring greater clinical competency. There are very evident differences between associate-degree nurses (ADN) and baccalaureate-degree nurses (BSN) with regard to schooling. Most associate degree programs require 2 to 3 years of study, while a baccalaureate degree programs requires 4 years of study. Both ADN and BSN nurses must pass the same exam to earn their Registered Nurse license, however, there are major differences in the program curriculum between these two approaches to attaining the RN license. ADN programs focus on learning the technical skills for providing patient care. Baccalaureate...
Words: 785 - Pages: 4
...Running head: Competency Comparison Competency Comparison Between ADN and BSN Prepared Nurses Lynda Brace Grand Canyon University: NUR-430V November 20, 2011 Competency Comparison Between ADN and BSN Prepared Nurses There are different pathways of obtaining entry level into the field of nursing. Levels of education vary depending of which route is chosen. Ultimately, no matter what route is undertaken, the Board of Registered administers only one licensing exam (NCLEX-RN). Two of the most common pathways are the Associates Degree (ADN) and the Baccalaureate (BSN) prepared programs. This paper will focus on the competency comparisons between the ADN and BSN prepared nurses. ADN programs were developed post WWII in response to the shortages of trained nurses. New hospitals were emerging and care was being transferred from home based to hospital based. The demand of nurses was far greater than the programs that were available to educate. According to Creasia & Friberg (2011, p.26) ADN programs, developed by Mildred Montag, were to prepare technical nurses who would work under the guidance of a professionally prepared nurse (BSN). This was to assist in the elimination of the nursing shortage in effect at the time. They were not to be hospital focused rather college based. By taking the control away from hospitals, they would be able available to a wider more diverse population. ADN programs are usually two years in length. The first year emphasis is placed...
Words: 923 - Pages: 4
...Health care is a field that is changing dramatically. Many practicing nurses have various degrees in nursing like Associate Degree, Diploma, Baccalaureate and Master’s degree. Due to the varying levels of education and training, differences exist between the nurses prepared with an Associate degree (ADN) when compared to those nurses who have trained in a Baccalaureate degree (BSN). Though nurses getting these degrees have their differences in preparation, nurses earning these degrees have adequate theoretical and clinical learning experiences. The license qualifying examination for many states- National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) - does not differentiate between ADN and BSN degree prepared nurses and allows nurses with both degrees to take the licensing examination after completion of the degree regardless of the educational background of the applicant. The differences in competencies between nurses prepared with an ADN compared to those prepared with a BSN include the quality of training and duration of the course. From research shown in many well published studies and from my own practice, I feel that such differences in training create various approaches to patient management in similar clinical situations and hence do have a variable effect on patient outcomes. Nurses with an ADN or a BSN have distinctive differences in their preparation to get their degree. Nurses with an ADN obtain their degree through attending community colleges, nursing schools, or other...
Words: 1237 - 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
...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
...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 between ADN and BSN NRS-430v July 14, 2013 Differences in Competencies between ADN and BSN Over the past few decades, many drastic changes occurred in U.S health care delivery. Our current healthcare trends demand nurses to take more active role in the health care decisions in hospital setting, long term care setting and in community healthcare setting. Since “nursing is based upon a body of knowledge that is always changing with new discoveries and innovation” Potter and Perry (2005), nursing profession is compelled to grow from being just a traditional bedside nurse. IOM’s future of nursing report which is released in 2010 calls nurses to be “more highly educated, diverse nursing workforce”. There are two educational routes for becoming a professional registered nurse in U.S. One of the educational routes is be Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and another one is obtaining Bachelors in Nursing (BSN) or Bachelors of Science in Nursing. Although, both degrees enable nurses to get licensed as a Registered Professional Nurse, there are differences among Associate level prepared nurses and Baccalaureate level prepared nurses. In order to meet the requirements and demands of our changing health care system, nurses have to be least Baccalaureate level prepared. First of all, Associate degree program is a two year program that is usually offered by community college or junior college. Upon graduation, ADN student’s earn70 credits. The BSN...
Words: 1021 - Pages: 5
...Competency Differences of ADN and BSN Graduates Virginia Tanner Grand Canyon University: NRS-430V January 10, 2016 Controversy over the entry level educational requirements to the nursing profession has been on-going since the inception of the two-year degree program by Mildred Montag in 1952. This educational model was meant to be a temporary solution to a critical nursing shortage post WWII but became a mainstay of nursing education to present day. Therefore, the debate between various state educational programs, nursing organizations, and other interest groups has continued for over half a century without formal resolution (Mahaffey, E. 2002). Additionally the reality that both associate degree (ADN) and baccalaureate degree (BSN) prepared nurses gain the title of RN by passing the same board examination only increases the confusion surrounding these two program levels of nursing education. Examination of these different educational preparation pathways in the level of nurses’ competencies requires discussion for the nursing profession to evolve while continuing to utilize both ADN and BSN prepared nurses. The primary educational focus for an ADN is hands-on bedside care of patients. The BSN educational focus encompasses the ADN model along with public and community health care, and leadership development within the nursing field. The different degree levels is advantageous because ADN programs provide a population source for BSN programs. Associate program graduates...
Words: 1169 - Pages: 5
...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...
Words: 789 - Pages: 4
...Differences in Bedside Competency Between ADN and BSN Nurses Tonya L Henson Grand Canyon University NRS-430V May 10, 2010 Currently in the United States there are three types of Registered Nurses. Diploma nurses obtain their education through a hospital based program. Associate Degree nurses usually receive their degree in a two year or community college setting. A Bachelor of Science degree in nursing is a four year academic degree. The debate over minimum education requirements for nurses has been going on for decades and there still seems to be no general consensus. The subject of entry level education requirements is one that is very divisive to many nurses. Internet searches bring up thousands of blogs, message board postings, position statements and statistics related to this issue. In this paper the focus will be on ADN and BSN nurses. 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. Baccalaureate nursing programs have additional classes in humanities, the sciences and expanded nursing coursework. The additional classes in community health nursing, nursing management and research are designed to provide the BSN prepared nurse for a broader scope of practice. This enables the BSN prepared nurse to move away from direct bedside care in a hospital setting. The BSN degree also serves as a bridge to those...
Words: 1147 - Pages: 5
