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The RN to BSN Degree: A Healthy Career Move
By John TuthillFor practicing nurses that hope to improve their quality of care as well as advance their careers, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is an alluring option.
The RN-to-BSN degree was established for registered nurses who have attained the Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or an equivalent diploma. Both the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) and American Nurses Association (ANA) recommend the BSN as the standard degree for professional practice as a nurse.
The RN-to-BSN: An Integrated Curriculum
While building on prior experience and education, the BSN degree covers a comprehensive survey of the sciences and humanities. Studies include disease prevention, critical care, ambulatory care, public health, and mental health. Other courses provide the BSN student with scientific, critical thinking, and leadership skills that are essential for today's demanding and diverse health care environment.
The BSN prepares registered nurses to deal with the increasing complexity of patient care. In addition to helping students qualify for enhanced employment opportunities in hospitals and other primary-care facilities, nursing schools train BSN students to work in community health and home-health care settings. In 2004, the AACN reported that nearly 15 percent of registered nurses were employed in this capacity.
The Benefits of a BSN Degree
Today's health care employers are seeking nurses with advanced degrees, such as the BSN, who can perform a variety of primary care and community health tasks. In fact, the National Advisory Council on Nurse Education and Practice has strongly recommended that at least two-thirds of all practicing nurses should hold a BSN by the year 2010. Currently, it is estimated that less than half meet this condition.
Because the RN-to-BSN program is available online, it is ideal for individuals who hope to advance their education while maintaining a productive work or family life. Students are not required to commute and are able to create a personalized, flexible schedule. Registered nurses across the country are pursuing online nursing degrees for advanced career training and the knowledge necessary to provide the best possible care for their patients.
Sources
American Association of Colleges of Nursing
The National Advisory Council on Nurse Education and Practice
About the AuthorJohn Tuthill is a biologist at the University of Montana. His previous experience includes laboratory work at the University of Washington and Duke University, studying mechanisms of vision and biological imaging.
