The Term Paper On Nurse To Patient Ratios
Nurse-to-Patient Ratios The healthcare in United States deals with many internal issues that the general public used to be unaware of, until recent times. Still, upon seeing nurses going on strike, most of the people conclude that it has only to do with their demands of better wages and additional social benefits, while in fact, this matter is much more complicated. Majority of nurses demand that …
Retrieved from http://www. aacn. nche. edu/media-relations/fact-sheets/impact-of-education Creasia and Friberg. .
Conceptual foundations: The bridge to professional nursing practice. St. Louis, Missourit: Mosby Inc. Retrieved from http://pageburstls. elsevier. com/#/books/978-0-323-06869-7/pages/47247567 Grand Canyon University. .
Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing .
Retrieved from http://www. gcu. edu/degree-programs/registered-nurse-to-bachelor-of-science-in-nursing.
What Is The Difference Between Rn And Bsn
Now that weve defined RN and BSN, you may be wondering, Is BSN the same as RN? or Is BSN higher than RN? The main difference between an RN and a BSN is the level of education someone has received. A registered nurse is able to practice within their field with only an associates degree, but a BSN is the preferred level of education for many nurse specialties throughout the medical career landscape.
Adn Vs Bsn Patient Outcomes
Many studies have concluded that BSN-prepared nurses have improved patient outcomes. The National Academy of Medicine recommends that at least 80% of nurses have a BSN, a recommendation stemming from evidence that patient outcomes improve as the percentage of BSN-prepared nurses increases at the bedside. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing has based its recommendation of having baccalaureate-prepared nurses on the results of a study that found an increase in BSN nurses on a hospital unit .
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What If I Already Have An Associate Degree In Nursing
This does not mean you are at the end of the line. In fact, like I said before, an ADN is a great starting point in the field of nursing. Two years after I obtained my RN in an Associate nursing program, with the support of my family I decided to go back to nursing school.
I obtained my bachelors degree in nursing in 2013. Like many nurses, my Bachelors degree in nursing was obtained at the urging of my employer. I was politely nudged toward obtaining my BSN degree as my institution was applying for Magnet status. This accomplishment required a certain percentage of nurses to have bachelor degrees.
One positive attribute of the Bachelor degree is diversity of nursing opportunities when it comes to employment.
A human resources manager once mentioned to me that, when it comes to nurses, We hire bachelor prepared nurses first, then Associate degree nurses.
With your BSN degree in hand, you could be more prepared for work in a wide variety of medical settings with the appropriate qualifications. Whether its critical care or dialysis nursing, there are many options available to a nurse who has a Bachelors degree.
Having a bachelor degree in nursing doesnt mean youll always get the job you apply for, but you will likely be perceived as more attractive to many healthcare facilities.
Again, healthcare is a consumer product, and with each award or credential a facility strives for, the threshold for advanced degree nurses is on the rise.
Adn Vs Bsn: Your Guide To Help You Decide

By Jordan Jantz on 07/11/2022
Youve been thinking about a career in nursing for a while now. Its something youve always wanteda steady and reliable career that puts food on the table and also allows you to live out your passion for helping others. But youre not one to make uneducated decisions. You want to know what youre getting intoand how to best go about it.
Thats where your dilemma comes in: The ADN versus BSN debate. Should you get your Associates degree in Nursing or Bachelor of Science in Nursing to become a nurse? Graduates from ADN and BSN programs both become registered nurses upon graduating and meeting all other state licensure requirements like passing the NCLEX-RN® exam. But what differences come with these degrees? And which degree path is best suited for you?
Lets explore the ADN versus BSN debate so you can get your wheels in motion.
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Pros And Cons Of Associate Vs Bachelors Degrees In Nursing
I obtained my associate degree in nursing in 2011. I choose this degree based on its prompt level of employment entry. I wanted to start working as a nurse as quickly as possible. My plan was to go back to school at a later date for an advanced degree.
Many nursing Associates degrees can be obtained within two years if you go full time. Upon graduation, most students are able to enter the workforce in two years, versus the traditional four-years it take to complete a Bachelor degree in nursing. Associate degrees are ideal for individuals looking to enter the nursing workforce as soon as possible.
There are some drawbacks of going the nursing Associates degree route, two of which stand out. These drawbacks are the career limitations of having an ADN and the lack of leadership preparation you will get in an ADN program. In addition to the difference in curriculum and preparation, many institutions are now looking for bachelor degree nurses only and prefer not to hire associate educated nurses.
Some hospitals, including those who are striving for or have Magnet status, and those in the Veterans Administration will no longer hire an associates nurse. Demand for nurses who meet the educational standards of an ACEN accredited schools baccalaureate program are on the rise.
Rn Degree Requirements By State
In order to work as a registered nurse, you will need to complete the licensure requirements as dictated by the state in which you wish to practice. While all states have certain educational requirements in order to qualify for an RN license, these requirements can vary significantly
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In the past, in order to work as a registered nurse in most states, you would have had to earn at least an associates degree in nursing . Over time, many states have begun requiring that RNs hold at least a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in order to qualify for their RN license.
To make matters more complicated, some states will allow an individual to begin practicing as an RN after having earned an associates degree in nursing, with the stipulation that the individual earn a bachelors degree within a certain window of time. New York, for example, follows a law that is known colloquially as BSN in 10. This law states that RNs who have only earned their associates degree must complete a BSN within 10 years of obtaining their initial RN license in order to continue as a registered nurse.
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Adn Vs Bsn Salary Differences
Both ADN and BSN degrees prepare nurses for entry-level roles. However, a BSN degree is designed to offer more career opportunities for upward mobility, and that comes with a bigger paycheck.
The starting salary for a registered nurse with a BSN can be, at the beginning, similar towhat an ADN nurse earns.However, RNs with an ADN degree may land entry-level positions that will provide them with $40,250 on average, while RNs with a BSN can earn up to a mean annual income of about $71,730.
Can I Get A Nursing Job With Either Degree
Before we get started, we want to answer this fundamental question: Can I get a nursing job with an associates degree in nursing or a bachelors degree of science in nursing ?
Yes, you can get a nursing job with either because both will provide the education and skills needed to get your nursing license to become a registered nurse . Most traditional entry-level RN jobs include basic nursing care like taking vital signs, recording a patients medical history and symptoms, administering vaccinations, and more.
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What Are The Educational Differences Between An Adn And A Bsn
The education in an ADN program and the one offered in a BSN program is vastly different. There are two immediate distinctions.
- Length of time An ADN can be completed in 12-18 months. Most BSN programs take 48 months. So, entering the nursing field is quicker for ADN-credentialed nurses.
- Financial investment The longer a program takes, the more expensive it is for a student. Additionally, the longer a person is in school, the longer it takes to enter the field and start earning a salary.
According toAmerican Association of Colleges of Nursing, traditional ADN and BSN programs both teach the competencies of nursing. Both also require nursing clinical experiences, which provide direct patient-care learning and application in healthcare settings.
But BSN programs also give students more gives students a more comprehensive vision of patients and patient care. Clinical experiences are more extensive, and include the practical application of leadership and supervisory skills
Associates In Nursing Vs Bachelors In Nursing
The moment you realized that you wanted to be a nurse, you started down the path towards a rewarding and fulfilling career of helping others. Unfortunately, deciding on a nursing career and becoming qualified to obtain one are two different things entirely.
Nursing requires training, education and commitment. To be eligible to take the state certification exam and ultimately become licensed as a nurse, you must earn an Associate of Science in Nursing . To take your nursing career to the next level, you can then obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing . Continue reading to better understand the difference between the two so you can make an informed decision regarding your education and career.
Associate of Science in Nursing
An ASN is an entry-level education credential that qualifies the bearer for employment as an RN. ASN programs take approximately two years to complete, with curriculum covering necessary training, care strategies and more.
Upon completion of an ASN program, graduates are ready to apply for state licensure and examination.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
A BSN is a higher educational credential than an ASN and requires approximately four years to complete. BSN programs cover the same material as an ASN curriculum, but with greater depth and added training in leadership, case management, information management and more. In many cases, BSN candidates can choose to focus their learning in a specific type of healthcare.
Which Degree Is Right for Me?
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Rn Vs Bsn Pros And Cons
When deciding between your ADN and BSN, it can be helpful to consider the pros and cons of each degree.
From your budget to time constraints to what future career opportunities are important to you, there are specific advantages and disadvantages to choosing an ADN or a BSN. Lets take a closer look at each one.
Associates Degree Vs Bachelors In Nursing: Final Thoughts

ADN and BSN degrees both give you an abundance of technical skills that can jumpstart your nursing career. Both have pros and cons. BSN degrees offer more career advancement opportunities and a higher potential salary range. That said, they also take much longer and cost more to acquire on average than ADN degrees, which can be a significant barrier for some students.
Associates degree vs. bachelors in nursing: Whichever you choose, were so excited for you to embark on your professional career, both in education and hands-on patient work. And well be here to help connect you with PRN shifts when youre ready! Want to get involved with the nursing community or talk to working nurses about why they chose a BSN or ADN degree? Get involved here!
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Time & Education Required
Many aspiring RNs choose the ADN because earning an associates degree in nursing takes about two years as opposed to the four years required to earn the BSN. The BSN can be earned in slightly less time if the student earns the degree through distance learning, but the same can be said for the associates degree.
Many colleges also offer an RN to BSN Bridge program, which allows an RN with an associates degree to earn the BSN in as little as three semesters or one year. The AACN indicates that BSN programs typically have much of the same coursework taught in the ADN program plus more in-depth training in leadership, public health and management.
Cna Certificate Or Diploma
A certified nursing assistant certificate is a nondegree diploma offered at community colleges and vocational schools. Both classroom and online options are available, though all clinical hours must be performed in person at an approved location.
As a CNA student, youll learn how to provide basic healthcare services and help patients with their daily activities. Other duties typically include:
- Transferring patients in and out of bed
- Bathing and feeding patients
- Communicating with family members
- Changing bedding
The curriculum includes training in emergency procedures, personal care skills, and infection control. To increase your employment options, you can also earn voluntary certification in specialized areas such as psychiatry or geriatrics.
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Cna Vs Lpn: Whats The Difference
A Certified Nursing Assistant assists the nurses in basic patient care under the supervision of a Licensed Practical Nurse or RN. The LPN has elevated duties, but under the supervision of an RN. A competency test, per your states regulations, will be required.
Most CNA certificate programs can be completed in a year or less. Programs focused on preparing students to become an LPN are more detailed and typically last one year. LPN certification will require passing the NCLEX-PN exam.
The Adn Still Matters
So where does this leave the ADN? Does it have a future? Actually, yes. In 2009, the Bureau of Labor Statistics forecast up to 582,000 new vacancies appearing by 2018. There is no way that nursing schools will churn out enough new BSN-trained nurses in that short time frame. Hospitals will need all the capable nurse professionals that they can getincluding ones with ADNs. ADN-credentialed nurses will also be needed in nonhospital settings, such as community clinics, as well, according to Geraldine Bednash, AACN chief executive.
So dont worry about your employability if your training stopped at an ADN. Hospitals will still have plenty of work for you to do. Just know that many more options and higher salary prospects could be in your reach if you go on for the BSN.
And its less of a time investment than you might think. Remember, once youve completed your ADN certification, youre already more than halfway there. Some ADN-certified nurses achieve their BSNs to in just another 12 months. Many schools ease the burden by offering courses online. Some, such as the University of Buffalo, go further and offer their entire BSN programs online.
Nursing organizations like the AACN hope to see many more nurse professionals make the BSN jump. Theyre linking up community colleges with four-year colleges while encouraging RNs everywhere to take advantage of the program offerings.
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Rn Vs Bsn: The Bottom Line
Determining which Nursing degree is the best fit for you all depends on your personal needs and career aspirations. Both an ADN and a BSN will make you eligible for RN licensure, but it should be noted that more and more hospitals are pushing for nurses with BSNs.
If you feel earning an ADN is the right option for this phase of your career, you can learn more by checking out our article, What Can You Do with an Associates Degree in Nursing?
If youd prefer working straight toward your BSN, consider the information in our article, What Is an Accelerated BSN? Your Fast Track to an Advanced Nursing Career.
1Completion time is dependent on the number of transfer credits accepted and number of courses completed each term.2Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, www.bls.gov/ooh/. Salary data represents national, averaged earnings for the occupations listed and includes workers at all levels of education and experience. This data does not represent starting salaries and employment conditions in your area may vary.3Burning-Glass.com EDITORS NOTE: This article was originally published in 2013. It has since been updated to include information relevant to 2020.
Associates Vs Bachelor Degree In Nursing
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Bachelor degree nursing programs are highly regarded for the skilled, clinical thinking, and professionalism of nurses they provide for the community. Obtaining a baccalaureate in nursing provides the same skills and knowledge encompassed in most associates programs, while allowing a broadened look into research, public health, management, and humanities .
Many facilities are now providing incentives for nursing staff to continue their education from tuition reimbursement, an increase in pay, and played time off for the sole purpose of education.
Research has proven that with a more educated nursing populous there is a decrease in morality rates and medication errors, and it also provides more positive outcomes .
With such a high demand for nurses, the scope of nursing has become more comprehensive with a larger responsibility being placed on nurses. All of this has shown not only to the medical field but also policymakers and other leaders of the community that a higher level of education not only makes a difference, but many feel it should be a requirement.
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Adn Vs Bsn Job Outlook
The number of RN openings is projected to grow by 9% between 2020 and 2030, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This translates into 194,500 openings annually for RNs over the next 10 years, providing a significant amount of job opportunities.
There are an incredible number of job openings in the field of nursing, with more predicted to be on the way. Nurses were already in demand due to an aging nurse workforce nearing retirement and the aging baby boomer population requiring more care the COVID-19 pandemic has only increased the need for more nurses.
With a wide variety of positions available, hospitals are in a position to hire more nurses. BSN-prepared nurses have an inherent advantage for these positions, because they already possess the education level employers desire. Nursing graduates with BSN degrees are often preferred by hiring managers and often have an advantage over ADN graduates when all other factors are equal, such as clinical experience and skill set.