Competencies and preparation of associate degree versus baccalaureate nurses

Nursing BA vs. Associates

Nursing Competencies -- Associates vs. Baccalaureates

The difference competencies between nurses prepared at the associate-degree level nursing vs. The baccalaureate-degree level are significantly different on many levels. Today's nurses work in a healthcare environment that is undergoing a constant evolution at a speed never before imagined (NLN Board of Governers, 2011). Patient needs have become more complicated; nurses must implement requisite competencies in leadership, health policy, system improvement, research, evidence-based practice, and teamwork and collaboration in order to deliver high-quality care. Furthermore, nurses are also required to master different technologies that are also evolving extremely rapidly.

There are basically three different alternative paths to becoming a registered nurse. Some hospitals offer a three-year program that is administered in the hospital setting. Another option is a two to three-year program in which graduates receive an associate's degree and can be administered at a community college or any number of educational arrangements. The most comprehensive programs often consist of a four-year track and taught at colleges and universities across the nation and at the successful completion of this program a baccalaureate degree is awarded. However, despite the course of study chosen, all graduates take the NCLEX-RN licensing examination.

ADN Option

Given the time and funding constraints that students face in the modern environment, the associate's degree path remains a relevant consideration for most students. Originally, the associate degree nurse or ADN was originated from a nursing shortage stemming from WWII (Mahaffey, 2002). Since this time the offering of an abbreviated curriculum has worked to significantly expand the nursing population. It has been estimated that approximately sixty percent of all new nurses entering into the workforce have received some form of associate degree. In many cases the associate degree nurse will study for two years at a college or technical school. These students are required to study the core nursing focused courses along with some basic studies in English, mathematics, and the humanities. Students can also participate in clinical rotations in programs that are partnered with local healthcare settings. This degree path level is often more affordable and accessible to more students and as a result it has worked to be a feasible solution to the shortage in the employment shortage for nurses (Moltz, 2010).

Conclusion

Each of the various degree programs has a set of advantages and disadvantages. The more comprehensive programs for baccalaureate registered nurses can prepare these students to assume roles of leadership faster than there associate degree counterparts. However, the associate degree educational path can often be completed much quicker and for less money. Therefore there is a many pros and cons to each possible path. Since healthcare is rapidly evolving at an unprecedented rate, the actual degree program itself may only be the start. Today's workforce must continually train to keep pace with all of the latest developments that occur in the world of healthcare. While the students who hold a BSN degree may have an initial selection advantage over their ASN counterparts, any nurse who is dedicated to continuing education can develop their career rapidly as the demand for quality nurses continues to grow rapidly.