The Benefits of BSN over ADN

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Recommended: Evidence-based practice has gained momentum in nursing

The national shortage of Registered Nurses (RNs) has helped generate formidable interest in the nursing profession among people entering the workforce and those pursuing a career change. According to a report issued by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service in 2002, the national population is continuing to grow and age and medical services continue to advance, so the need for nurses will continue to increase. They report from 2000 to 2020 the predicted shortage of nurses is expected to grow to 29 percent, compared to a 6 percent shortage in 2000. With the projected supply, demand, and shortage of registered nurses and nursing salaries ever-increasing, the nursing profession can offer countless opportunities. But first one must determine which educational path to pursue, Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Associate Degree in nursing (ADN). Most will initially be educated at the associate degree level, even though the American Organization of Nursing Executives (AONE) has recommended a baccalaureate level as a minimal for entry-level nurses. With the expanding number of RN to BSN programs available there is always the option to further one’s education at a later date. The benefits for acquiring a BSN over an ADN include a better knowledge for evidence-based practice, an increased advantage for promotion, and the necessary gateway for higher education.

Many may argue that one is just as capable as the other in offering patient care. But recent studies conducted by Aiken et al. have shown nurses educated at higher levels are better prepared for delivering optimal patient care. One of the key eliminates is evidence-based practice. BSN programs provide the knowledge and preparation needed for evidence-based prac...

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Raines, C., & Taglaireni, M. (2008). Career pathways in nursing: entry points and academic progression. Online Journal of Issues in Nursing, 13(3), 3. doi: 10.3912/OJIN.Vol13No03Man01

Spencer, J. (2008). Increasing RN-BSN enrollments: facilitating articulation through curriculum reform. Journal of Continuing Education in Nursing, 39(7), 307-313. Retrieved from EBSCOhost.

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2005). FY 2006 budget in brief: health resources and services administration. Retrieved June 5, 2011, from http://www.hhs.gov/budget/06budget/healthres.html

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