...significant changes due to complex patient’s needs, chronic health conditions, and technological innovations. Educating nurses within the 21st century requires a creative integration of knowledge, skill set, and caring within an increasingly complex healthcare system (Institute of Medicine [IOM], 2010). Nursing education is heavily laden with continuous content increases to be covered within the curriculum (Devereaux-Melillo, Dowling, Abdallah, Findeisen, & Knight, 2013). The need to examine curricular transformation is imperative in order to manage content saturation, and abate the separation of the classroom and clinical teaching. This paper will outline the following processes: (a) the development of a concept-based curricular plan for a baccalaureate program, (b) the impact of a concept-cased curriculum (CBC) on the faculty, students, finances, community of interests, accreditation, and (c) examples of the integration of competencies. Development of Concept-Based Curricular Plan Nursing faculty are challenged with curriculum, for they are presenting an astronomical amount of material to “cover the content”. According to Duncan and Schulz (2015) nurses practice conceptually on a daily basis by focusing on the patient needs, regardless of the medical diagnoses assigned. In order to practice conceptually, nurses must think conceptually by grouping important facts into concepts that can then be transferred from one clinical situation to another (Benner, Sutphen, Leonard, & Day, 2010)...
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...Reform Introduction Expanding opportunities, raising potentials, and providing an “edge” have been the prevailing theme in several studies in this article that investigates the motivations of RNs to receive their BSN (Spencer, 2008). Increasing RN-BSN enrollments: facilitating articulation through curriculum reform is an article published in the Journal of Continuing Education in Nursing in the July, 2008 issue, written by Janine Spencer. The writer presents an overview of the associate degree and the diploma nurse to obtain a baccalaureate in nursing. The article presents studies that support this view and the advantages of obtaining a BSN degree in nursing. SUMMARY In the profession of nursing there are currently three pathways in which a nurse can obtain licensure: the diploma, the associate degree, and the baccalaureate degree (Spencer, 2008). The article further explains professional nursing organizations views, and discusses key points, in which a baccalaureate of science in nursing (BSN) degree should be the minimum educational requirement for professional nursing practice. These organizations also support flexible admission criteria for the diploma nurse and the associate degree nurses hoping to encourage these nurses to complete a BSN degree in nursing (Spencer, 2008). The advantage of the nurse to obtain a baccalaureate education provides a broader knowledge base. The BSN program consists of an additional year of training which includes: research, theory...
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...ABSTRACT What are the differences in competencies between nurses prepared at the Associate-degree level versus the Baccalaureate-degree level? What are the advantages of the health care industry employing more nurses with a higher level of education? Is raising the educational standard for the nursing profession a means to help improve overall care? Studies have been done to understand the differences, if any, between the two levels of nursing. The health care industry is constantly focused on improving the efficiency and quality of care for patients and the community. These studies and comparisons between the two levels of nursing education are in effort to continue to enhance patient care and treatment outcome. The differences in competencies between nurses prepared at the Associate-degree level (ADN) versus the Baccalaureate-degree level (BSN) in nursing are important in specific settings of the profession where leadership and authoritative decision is required, in my opinion. The advanced nursing education curriculum that is prepared to transition an RN to a BSN has been “designed to facilitate the students’ abilities to creatively respond to continuously changing health care systems throughout the world” (Grand Canyon University College of Nursing Philosophy). I believe the two separate programs both help to prepare nurses with the practical skills needed to be successful in any basic clinical setting, while the BSN helps to build upon these skills and increases...
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...within the nursing profession for many years. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), the national voice for baccalaureate and graduate nursing programs, believes that education has a significant impact on the knowledge and competencies of the nurse clinician, as it does for all health care providers. The healthcare systems of today are attempting to keep up with the ever changing world of health care needs. Independent decision making nurses are in demand. Much more is required of the Registered Nurse today in addition to carrying out a doctor’s orders or administering medications. Today’s nurse must be able to think critically, make decisions about a patient’s care, recognize when to question a physician about an order, and simultaneously be able to assist the patient and family members with challenging health care decisions. A BSN is a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, while an ADN is an Associate Degree in Nursing. Both degrees lead to getting your RN but there are some differences between the two. 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. Both the ADN and the BSN take the same NCLEX-RN licensure examination. In addition to the courses taught in the associate program, the baccalaureate nursing program provides a more in-depth instruction of the physical and social sciences, nursing research, public and community...
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...preparation for the Baccalaureate degree they both hold the title of Registered Nurses. A 3- year associate degree usually offered at a community college; and the 4- year baccalaureate degree offered at a senior college and universities. There are many surveys and research that are being carried out that shows the quality of care given to patients by nurses with associate degree and baccalaureate degree definitely differences exist in competencies based on degree level by demonstrating evidenced based practices, critical thinking, problem solving skills versus technical skills. Baccalaureate nursing programs have a significant impact on the knowledge of nurse clinician as it does on all healthcare providers. Nowadays there is a difference exist in the original propose curriculum design for the ADN educational programs. ADN graduate nurses are employed as staff nurses in hospitals and studies showed that there is very little differentiation between the role of ADN nurses and BSN nurses as they are asked to assume the same responsibilities. When the ADN programs were implemented it was not meant to prepare graduates for administrative positions. Also there was a real willingness within the educational preparation of nurses, to identify explicitly the role and responsibilities of professional nurses whether they are prepared as nurses from an ADN or BSN programs highly determined by the philosophy and needs of agencies that are employing them. In the baccalaureate nursing program...
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...What differentiates a technical nurse from a professional nurse? Is it their education, work experience or innate organizational and leadership skills? Most current educators, leaders and professional nursing organizations say the primary differentiator between a technical nurse and a professional nurse is the level of education. The Nursing Diploma and two-year Associates-Degree Nurses (ADN) are considered “technical” while a nurse with a four-year Bachelors of Science Degree in Nursing (BSN) is considered “professional”. The distinction of differentiating nursing capabilities based on education arose after the creation of the two-year ADN programs at junior colleges. After World War II there was a sudden growth in junior colleges to support the demand for technical training and education of returning veterans. At the same time there were accelerated advances in medical sciences and facilities and a supporting demand for more nurses. Creative educators, led by Dr. Mildred Montag, starting in the early 1950’s created the two-year ADN curriculum to help meet the growing demand for nurses. “Dr, Montag’s doctoral research, not only as the spark that began the Associate Degree Nursing movement, but also the research base that proved her ideas could work in the real world and established Associate Degree Nursing as the only nursing program that was research proven over time.” However, some educators took liberties and experimented with the ADN curriculum as they worked to...
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...LPN to RN Role Transition: Differences and Strategies for Success Taylor Birleffi Indiana State University LPN to RN Role Transition: Differences and Strategies for Success The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN/LVN) role has involved certain role expectations and behaviors that are similar to the nursing roles of the Registered Nurse (RN). Although many may recognize the similar roles these two nurses have, there are various differences that exist between the two particularly those trained at the Baccalaureate level. These role differences are demonstrated through written regulations, knowledge base and practice roles, and the skills and abilities of both professional roles. Both the LPN and RN have regulations at the state level...
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...Running head: COMPARISON OF COMPETENCIES Comparison of Competencies: Associate versus Baccalaureate Degree Nurses Rachel Beissel Grand Canyon University: NRS-430V Professional Dynamics November 20, 2011 Comparison of Competencies: Associate versus Baccalaureate Degree Nurses There are currently three different degree programs for Registered Nurses in the United States. The first degree plan is a diploma nursing degree, which is a 3 year program that focuses on nursing tasks in a hospital setting. It is noted that the diploma nursing program provides the most clock hours of clinical instruction (Hood, 2010, pg. 15). The second degree plan is the associate degree in nursing; this degree focuses on a combination of didactic and clinical skills over a 2 year period. The last degree is the baccalaureate degree in nursing which is a higher level of education in nursing; this includes additional courses in nursing research and community health projects. This paper will give an overview of the differences between the competencies of the associate degree plan versus the baccalaureate trained nurse in the patient care setting. Associate Degree in Nursing The associate degree was originally created to help with the nursing shortage after World War II. The first associate degree nursing program was started by Dr. Mildred Montag in 1952 (Potter & Perry, 2009, pg. 3). The associate degree in nursing is an attractive alternative for many people who decide to go to school to become...
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...Middle Range Theory Continues to Guide Nursing Practice Judy John Maryville University Middle Range Theory Continues to Guide Nursing Practice Nursing theory has three distinct categories to describe the level of abstraction: Grand, Middle-Range, and Situation-Specific (Meleis, 2012, p. 33). Hugh McKenna (1997) defined these three categories, stating: Grand theory is highly abstract and is broad in scope. Middle-range theory is more focused and is normally the end product of a research study. Narrow-range theory is even more specific and while also being based on research findings, it guides specific actions in the achievement of desirable goals (p. 17). When thinking about nursing theory, one might ask: What is the purpose of theory? Is it even relevant to current nursing practice? The best response to answer these questions I have found is from Meleis (2012): The primary uses of theory are to provide insights about nursing practice situations and to guide research. Through interaction with practice, theory is shaped and guidelines for practice evolve. Research validates, refutes, and/or modifies theory as well as generates new theory. Theory then guides practice (p. 35). This explanation of theory by Meleis identifies nursing as a profession. Without theory to shape and guide nursing practice and research, nursing would not evolve and would remain stagnant. Additionally, without theory could nurses really claim that we are a profession...
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...Abstract The health care system is a complex part of the economy that emphasizes cost efficient methods of addressing the dynamic health needs of today’s population. The baby boomer generation is aging, and the cost of health care is at the forefront in the news. Case managers facilitate the process of navigating through the health care system to attain the proper treatment necessary for the patient, thus integrating a complex multidisciplinary health care system. Preparing new nurse case managers in this specialized field requires an advanced professional background based on education and experience. Keywords: case management, case manager, health care system The Growing Need for Case Managers The 65 years and older cohort in the United States will reach 20% of the population, reaching an estimated number of 80 million by the year 2050; while by the year 2020, a severe professional nursing shortage of two hundred and eight hundred thousand nurses is projected to occur. The discrepancy between the supply of nurses and the demand of health care services for an aging population is driving much emphasis on issues related to health care coverage, health promotion and prevention, and treatment of escalating chronic diseases that afflict this country, such as diabetes and dementia. The underlying message of this emphasis is the containment of health care cost, a burden patients will have to face when undertaking medical services, and revisions in...
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...to provide guidance and direction for the clinician. Many nursing scholars including Patricia Benner have contributed to the nursing philosophical base. My personal nursing philosophy is shaped by the early pioneers in nursing to promote health and achieve optimal state of wellness for the patients. An individual value and beliefs system plays an integral role in delivering nursing care. My personal values and beliefs have guided me throughout my nursing profession. During my nursing career, I have carefully examined different pathways to achieve higher education to maximize my potential as a health care provider. This paper will discuss my personal philosophy of nursing including values and beliefs; roles of a baccalaureate prepared nurse including role transition with new opportunities available; two professional short term and long term goals including barriers and challenges; develop a strategic plan to accomplish these goals within five years. In my daily practice as a registered nurse, my focus is directed by my philosophical beliefs to promote wellness for each individual. As a clinician, I respect the values of the early philosophers who have outlined the responsibilities of the nursing profession. Based on the guidelines of the philosophers, a clear understanding of each patient’s physiological and psychological needs must be addressed to facilitate therapeutic treatment. My core fundamental nursing philosophical belief is to practice holistic care and demonstrate...
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...acquisition of a nursing license in the United States is unique in the fact that there are currently several pathways to licensure. A person wishing to practice nursing may complete a hospital diploma program, a community college associate degree in nursing (ADN), attend a four-year college for a baccalaureate degree in nursing (BSN) or even complete a bridge program in which the individual already possesses a baccalaureate degree in another field of study learns nursing practice (Creasia & Friberg, 2011, p. 25). The report from the institute of medicine (IOM) recognizes these varied pathways to nursing as a benefit as well as a hindrance to the field (Institute of Medicine, 2011, p. 166). The benefit to the field is availability of nurses due to the attractive cost of education at the diploma and community college level versus the more expensive four year college route (Institute of Medicine, 2011, p. 168). The barrier of this pathway; however, has been discussed in the IOM report. According to research, 80 percent of the time ADN graduates do not continue their education onto the BSN level (Institute of Medicine, 2011, p. 186). The push toward this continuation of education comes from studies...
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...PROCESS TO A FOUR-YEAR INSTITUTION: AN EXPLORATORY STUDY by ELIZABETH E. SACKSTEDER LACLAIR A DISSERTATION Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in the College of Education in the Graduate School of The University of Alabama TUSCALOOSA, ALABAMA 2010 Copyright Elizabeth E. Sacksteder LaClair 2010 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED ABSTRACT Utilizing the current literature base on rural community colleges, transfer student adjustment, academic advising and articulation issues, the purpose of this research study was to ascertain the adjustment issues and experiences of rural community college students who have the intent to transfer to a four-year baccalaureate degree granting institution. The perceptions these rural community college students have regarding the transfer process are the focus of the study. Students from ten rural community colleges, who participated in the Alabama College Transfer Advising Corps, a project of The University of Alabama and funded by the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation were used in the study. The survey instrument used in this study is a variation of Laanan Transfer Student Questionnaire (L-TSQ). Survey questions were reframed such that those regarding university experiences and the students’ potential transfer to a four-year college/university were treated as reflections on the meditational transition, or transition that has not yet occurred. The study addressed the experiences of community college...
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...Running head: ADN vs. BSN Associate’s Degree versus Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing Competency Antoinette Bordeaux Grand Canyon University Professional Dynamics- 430V November 13, 2010 Associates Degree versus Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing Competency A registered nurse (RN) originally graduates from one of three educational programs which include diploma, associate degree (ADN), or a baccalaureate degree (BSN) program. All three programs have similarities and differences. One similarity is that all programs are required to take the same state board exam to become license and the passing rates for all degree are all somewhat similar. Starr and Edwards, (2010) specified, “Nationally in 2009, 91% of diploma graduates, 88% of associate degree graduates and 89% of baccalaureate degree graduates passed the NCLEX-RN on the first attempt(National Council of State Boards of Nursing, 2009)”. Another similarity suggestive from the statistics of the NCLEX-RN is that all three programs possess the required minimum knowledge in order to provide safe and effective care. Associate Degree History After World War II, Hood and Leddy (2010) states, “The nursing shortage increased as more hospital beds became available” (p.47). As the shortage hit hard and nurses were leaving the profession for multiple reasons it was recommended that nursing education be moved to universities and colleges rather than the hospital setting. In 1952 Mildred Montag proposed a solution to the nursing...
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...Differences between Nurses Educated at Associate Level vs. Baccalaureate Level Nursing Christy Lilly Grand Canyon University: NRS-430V-O501 March 27, 2015 Differences between Nurses Prepared at Associate Level vs. Baccalaureate Level Education can be a factor in determining a person’s success and well-being. Does the difference in RN education play a role in well-being of those they care for? I will explain some educational differences between an Associate Degree Nurse (ADN) and a Baccalaureate of Science Nurse (BSN). Also, I will share a clinical case scenario to demonstrate the differences in approach, experience and skills effect clinical decisions made by a BSN and an ADN nurse. Associate Degree Nursing Education The ADN requires two or three years of college, whether at a community college or junior college. The graduate earns an Associates of Science in Nursing and is qualified to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become a licensed registered nurse (RN). The idea of the ADN was founded by Mildred Montag in 1952 due to the nursing shortage post World War II. Montag proposed a two-year program in junior or community colleges. Her intent was the ADN would be more educated than the untrained nurse, otherwise known as a practical nurse. The ADN would qualify to test for RN licensure and enter practice working under the supervision of a BSN nurse. Montag’s proposed framework and model was not executed completely. Instead...
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