Introduction
There are many different ways to which one can become a Registered Nurse (RN). These routes entail undergoing different forms of training. This training involves pursuing a diploma program, an associated degree and a baccalaureate degree in nursing. The diverse ways are mainly marked by different forms of education attainment. Baccalaureate nursing education involves training that takes place in both diploma and associate degree nursing plus some extra more courses and range of studies in other aspects. Studies have identified that the level of education attainment among the training of nurses makes a difference in their competencies and practice (Rani, 2010). This paper examines the dissimilarities between Baccalaureate and Associate Degree prepared registered nurse regarding competencies and decision-making.
Proficiency differences
BSN trained RN have demonstrated to have better competencies compared to ADN in the following areas. Baccalaureate Registered prepared nurses have high competencies communication skills compared to ADN. BSN undergo extra training in aspects of culture, economic and political issues (Rani, 2010). Even though ADN nurses share some aspects in humanities training, studies have stated that the stronger base in training in science and human courses among BSN nurses enhances their ability to communicate efficiently with patients (American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 2016b).
Besides, BSN nurses have a broad range of practice in nursing practice that emanates from compared to ADN nurses. The high level of education provides them with the ability to work in many clinical settings. Some of these clinical settings include areas such as acute care unit, emergency rooms and surgery (American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 2016a). The additional training provides them with the ability to work in different healthcare settings thus making them have high nursing competencies compared to ADN nurses. BSN nurses are thus able to handle many of the demands of the modern nurses. Due to this, studies have indicated that BSN nurses increase positive health outcomes among patients as they can handle challenging and complex roles (Rani, 2010).
Additionally, BSN registered nurses are more competent in research and evaluation compared to ADN registered nurse. The training in liberal arts provides them with research skills which empower them with abilities to contribute to the nursing professional through carrying out various studies. Knowledge acquired in theoretical concepts also adds to their improve capabilities to efficiently perform research and create knowledge in nursing practice. The results of their research enable them to offer multidimensional services to patients (American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 2016a). However, this is not the case for ADN registered nurses who lack in-depth training in these fields. Additionally, through the study of liberal arts, BSN registered nurses have more responsibilities in decision-making compared to their ADN counterparts. Skills gained through training such as critical thinking and problem-solving make them be better decision makers in nursing practice.
Furthermore, BSN a registered nurse possesses better leadership skills compared to ADN prepared RN. The knowledge and skills attained through training in areas such as administration, problem-solving and decision-making skills make them to be better leaders as opposed to ADN registered nurses. The additional knowledge they acquire in areas such as conflict management, leadership management theories, and organizational structures make them have improved competencies in leadership (American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 2016a). Due to this, they can serve as leaders in differed areas of their practice such as healthcare managers and administrators.
Moreover, BSN registered nurses characterize professional integration as opposed to ADN prepared RN. They can work more collaboratively with other professionals in healthcare to ensure the provision of quality health services. The ability to work collaboratively promotes positive clinical outcomes among patients. Through their training, BSN prepared RN can apply leadership management to interdisciplinary health, use leadership skills in the meetings and collaborate in healthcare delivery. Besides, the knowledge acquired through training in aspects such as evolving leadership roles, nursing theories, and interdisciplinary interventions equip them with best competencies of professional integration as opposed to ADN prepared RN (Spetz, &Bates, 2013).
Differences in patient care- approaches to decision making between ADN and BSN
BSN trained RN have a comprehensive scope of practice and more responsibilities in their practice. The vast training in liberal arts provides them with an advantaged position to understand their patients better (Spetz, and Bates, 2013). BSN registered nurses training equip them with more skills and competencies which differentiate their judgment abilities in their practice with ADN registered nurses. For instance in acute care setting, the BSN registered nurse can be able to help the patient to make critical life decisions as opposed to the ADN prepared RN. They are able to diagnose and apply proper intervention measures as their training is broad. The liberal arts training make BSN be better placed in making decisions at this setting than ADN. On the other hand, ADN prepared registered nurses lack this capability. The enhanced capabilities of BSN nurses, as opposed to ADN, nurses provide an explanation for improved health outcomes of BSN nurses in this setting.
Conclusion
References
American Association of Colleges of Nursing, (2016a). The Impact of Education on Nursing Practice. Retrieved from http://www.aacn.nche.edu/media-relations/fact-sheets/impact-of-education
American Association of Colleges of Nursing, (2016b). Fact Sheet: Creating a More Highly Qualified Nursing Workforce. Retrieved from
Spetz, J and Bates, T. (2013). Is a Baccalaureate in Nursing Worth It? The Return to Education, 2000–2008. Health Services Research, 48(6), 1859-1878. Retrieved from http://eds.b.ebscohost.com/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?
Rani, R. (2010). Nursing education: Trends, issues, challenges and future perspective. International Journal of Nursing Education, 2(1), 34-38
