The difference competencies between nurses prepared at the associate-degree level nursing versus 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.
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.
BSN Option
Nurses with Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) often receive additional training that can develop a better understanding of the cultural, political, economic and social issues that can affect patience and influence health care delivery (Rosseter, 2012). A baccalaureate program will generally encompass all of the course work taught in the other two options for nursing degrees plus contain a more in-depth treatment of the physical and social sciences, nursing research, public and community health, nursing management, and the humanities. Of all of the different alternatives available to nursing students, this path is by far the most comprehensive and often prepares students to take on management or specialty roles shortly after graduating and entering the workforce.
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
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