Differences In Nursing Competencies: ADN Vs. BSN

1007 Words5 Pages
Differences in nursing competencies; ADN vs. BSN Susan Grigg Grand Canyon University: Professional Dynamics, NRS-430V August 8, 2015 DIFFERENCES IN NURSING COMPETENCIES; ADN vs. BSN “An ignorant woman, who was not fit for anything else, is good enough for a nurse” (Draper, 1893, 1949). Nursing has evolved tremendously over the past 150 years, not only in society’s view of a ‘nurse’, but in education levels as well. Crossing a span from prostitutes and women of ill repute, to today’s view of nurses as knowledgeable professionals with expertise in the area of caring for people. Inspired by the Nightingale model, early nurse training schools and today’s educational programs continue to evolve and grow. The author will discuss the difference…show more content…
Although the first years of a baccalaureate program are similar to that of an associate degree program, additional in-depth coursework such as social sciences, nursing research, public and community health, nursing management, leadership and critical thinking are required, thus enhancing a BSN’s professional development, knowledge base and scope of practice. A BSN program focuses on treating patients as individuals by incorporating the metaparadigm theories of nursing, allowing for a higher level of preparation to care for more complex patients. A BSN is trained and prepared to treat each patient holistically; assessing, evaluating and analyzing all needs (physical, emotional, environmental) of the patient. Although an associate-level degree nurse has some limited knowledge of theory and conceptual models, their training primarily focuses on technical skill and task orientation. The ADN has a disadvantage when it comes to the concepts of health, environment, person and nursing as well as evidenced based practice. A BSN program prepares a nurse to utilize critical thinking skills; not to memorize, but have a clear understanding of concepts and teaches application of those concepts when treating and managing patients. The BSN learns the foundation for holistic…show more content…
Advanced knowledge in individual patient care, understanding the essentials of person, environment, health and nursing profession and having the ability to apply the metaparadigms in daily practice, effectively improve nursing practice and patient outcomes. The goal for both degree level nurses is to provide quality care, however the BSN has a much broader knowledge base allowing for the care of more complex patients and a higher degree of autonomy in her role leading to better patient outcomes. A BSN’s leadership skills are far superior, opening the door to hold higher level positions within hospitals and community facilities. For ADN's seeking to be ‘the best nurse they can be,’ the BSN program will lead them on that
Open Document