For several years many have questioned the difference between nurses educated at the baccalaureate level and those with associate degree education? Many educators and authorities agree advanced education has a strong impact on a nurse’s ability to practice.
Furthermore, research has shown that lower mortality rates, fewer medication errors and positive outcomes are connected to nurses with degrees beyond ADN.(. ) Evidence also suggest that BSN prepared nurses are more likely to demonstrate professional behaviors important to patient safety. These behaviors include problem solving, performance of complex functions, and effective communication. According to the GCU philosophy of Nursing and Health Care Professional “baccalaureate nursing practice incorporates the roles of assessing, critical thinking, communication, providing care, teaching, and leading.
” according to nightingale.edu A traditional Registered Nurse job includes simple nursing care, recording patient symptoms, and medical history, supporting the family, educating patients on diseases, working in closely with physicians and using simple medical equipment. Compared to an ADN level nurse, a BSN nurse conducts more complex procedures under the doctors supervision and can be in charge of other nursing staff. A BSN degree can take you from registered nurse to statuses like nurse educator, public health nurse, or other specialties not available to ADN nurses. More education equates to more leadership roles and responsibilities and higher pay.
