Programs – EveryNurse.org https://everynurse.org Explore Careers in Nursing Thu, 28 Mar 2024 06:55:52 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://everynurse.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/cropped-EveryNurse-Logo-150x150.png Programs – EveryNurse.org https://everynurse.org 32 32 The Transformative Power of Diversity in Nurse Education https://everynurse.org/transformative-power-diversity-nurse-education/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=transformative-power-diversity-nurse-education Mon, 11 Dec 2023 04:47:51 +0000 https://everynurse.org/?p=78626

HIGHER EDUCATION

The Transformative Power of Diversity in Nurse Education

The Transformative Power of Diversity in Nurse Education
This article explores the significance of diversity in nurse education, including the benefits it brings to patient care, strategies for promoting inclusivity, understanding cultural competence, challenges and barriers to achieving diversity, the role of diversity in improving patient care and nursing leadership, implementation of diversity in nursing practice, and the future of diversity in nurse education.

The Significance of Diversity in Nurse Education

The significance of diversity in nurse education cannot be overstated. One reason diversity is important in nurse education is that it promotes cultural competence, allowing future nurses to effectively interact with patients from diverse cultural backgrounds. For example, when nursing students have exposure to peers from different cultures, they are more likely to develop a deeper understanding of diverse customs, traditions, and beliefs, which can be crucial in delivering culturally sensitive care. Additionally, the incorporation of diverse perspectives in the educational setting can also lead to the development of innovative approaches to healthcare challenges, ultimately benefiting both the healthcare team and the patients they serve.

In addition to promoting cultural competence, diversity in nurse education plays a pivotal role in enhancing patient care and improving health outcomes. A study published in the “Journal of Nursing Education” found that healthcare teams with a diverse composition were better at addressing complex patient care needs by drawing on a wider range of perspectives and experiences. This indicates that diversity in nurse education not only prepares students for the realities of a multicultural healthcare environment but also enhances their ability to collaborate and innovate in their future nursing practice.

In line with the significance of diversity in nurse education, the shift in nursing demographics over the past decade, with a decrease in the percentage of nurses identifying as white, signifies a positive move towards inclusivity within the nursing profession. This shift reflects a commitment to embracing diversity and creating an environment that is representative of the diverse communities that nurses will serve. As such, the significance of diversity in nurse education is not only about preparing students for the future of healthcare but also about shaping a nursing workforce that reflects and respects the diversity of the patient population.

Strategies for Promoting Inclusivity in Nurse Education

Nurse educators play a critical role in promoting inclusivity in nurse education. One important strategy is leading by example and fostering cross-cultural communication. For instance, educators can actively engage with students from diverse backgrounds, demonstrate respect for different cultures, and incorporate diverse perspectives into the curriculum. By doing so, they create an inclusive learning environment that respects and values all students, regardless of their cultural or ethnic backgrounds. In addition, mentorship of underrepresented students is another effective strategy for promoting inclusivity in nurse education. Educators can provide guidance, support, and advocacy for students from underrepresented groups, helping them navigate the challenges they may face in their educational journey. This mentorship can significantly contribute to the retention and success of a diverse student body in nursing programs.

Moreover, deeper community engagement is essential for enhancing healthcare diversity within nurse education. Nurse educators can establish partnerships with community organizations, cultural groups, and healthcare facilities to provide students with exposure to diverse patient populations and clinical experiences. This exposure not only enriches students’ learning but also reinforces the importance of cultural competence and diversity in nursing practice.

The “Future of Nursing” report has underscored the significance of greater diversity in nursing programs, calling for continued efforts to create more inclusive and representative learning environments that reflect the diversity of the communities nurses will serve. Furthermore, initiatives and programs aimed at enhancing diversity in nursing education and the workforce, such as federal funding for Nursing Workforce Development Programs and Nursing Workforce Diversity Grants, are essential for achieving these objectives and fostering a nursing workforce that is inclusive and representative of the diverse society it serves.

Understanding Cultural Competence in Nursing

Cultural competence in nursing plays a crucial role in providing high-quality and effective healthcare to diverse patient populations. It involves the adoption of behaviors and decisions that are tailored to fit with cultural values, providing meaningful and beneficial healthcare. For example, a culturally competent nurse may recognize the importance of addressing a patient’s religious or spiritual beliefs when developing a care plan, ensuring that the care provided aligns with the patient’s cultural values and preferences. Additionally, the ongoing commitment to diversity within nurse education and the workforce is essential for creating a healthcare system that is inclusive, representative, and responsive to the needs of all individuals.

Furthermore, cultural competence is not a static achievement but an ongoing process for both educators and students. It requires continuous personal cultural capacity building, which can be achieved through activities such as engaging in diverse cultural experiences, participating in cross-cultural communication workshops, and learning from individuals with different backgrounds. By understanding constructs such as acculturation, marginalization, and the various forms of discrimination, educators and students can develop the necessary skills to provide culturally congruent care to patients from diverse backgrounds. Additionally, educators have a responsibility to address social issues and forms of discrimination, such as racism, sexism, homophobia, and ageism, as they apply to students from diverse backgrounds.

By acknowledging and actively addressing these challenges within the educational environment, educators can create an inclusive and supportive learning environment that empowers students from all backgrounds to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the nursing profession. This approach fosters a sense of belonging and equity, which is essential for promoting diversity and inclusion in nurse education and the broader healthcare landscape.

Challenges and Barriers to Achieving Diversity in Nurse Education

One of the main challenges in achieving diversity in nurse education is the recruitment and retention of minority faculty. Research has shown that minority faculty members are underrepresented in nursing education, which can lead to a lack of diverse perspectives in the curriculum and mentorship for underrepresented students. To address this challenge, nursing programs can implement targeted recruitment strategies, provide professional development opportunities, and create inclusive and supportive work environments to attract and retain minority faculty members. Additionally, the need to promote leadership development among underrepresented groups is another barrier to achieving diversity in nurse education. By providing leadership training and mentorship opportunities, nursing programs can empower students from diverse backgrounds to pursue leadership roles in the nursing profession. This can help create a more inclusive and diverse nursing workforce, as individuals from underrepresented groups bring unique perspectives and experiences to leadership positions, ultimately benefiting the entire healthcare system.

As the U.S. population continues to become more diverse, nursing education needs to reflect this diversity to ensure that future healthcare providers are prepared to meet the needs of an increasingly multicultural society. Overcoming these challenges and barriers is crucial for promoting inclusivity and representation within nursing education, ultimately leading to a more diverse and culturally competent nursing workforce. Moreover, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) has launched initiatives to assist nursing schools in creating inclusive learning environments and advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in academic nursing. The association also provides technical assistance to nursing schools receiving funding through the Nursing Workforce Diversity program and advocates for more federal funding for Nursing Workforce Development Programs, including Nursing Workforce Diversity Grants.

The Role of Diversity in Improving Patient Care

Diversity within the nursing profession plays a pivotal role in improving patient care and health outcomes. A culturally diverse nursing workforce is essential for achieving health equity and ensuring that patient care is sensitive to the diverse needs of the population. For example, a study found that patients from racial and ethnic minority backgrounds often have better health outcomes when they receive care from healthcare providers who share their cultural backgrounds and experiences.

This highlights the importance of diversity in the nursing workforce in addressing health disparities and providing patient-centered care. Moreover, the lack of diversity in the healthcare workforce has been linked to poorer health outcomes and higher mortality rates among underrepresented minority groups. This emphasizes the urgency for nursing education programs to prioritize diversity and inclusivity to address the healthcare disparities that disproportionately affect minority communities.

Minority Recruitment

Strategies to enhance diversity in nursing education include recruiting minority faculty, promoting leadership development, and removing barriers to faculty careers. These initiatives are aimed at creating a healthcare workforce that is reflective of the diverse population it serves, ultimately leading to improved patient care quality and cost savings.

Additionally, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) has advocated for more federal funding for initiatives such as Nursing Workforce Development Programs and Nursing Workforce Diversity Grants, emphasizing the continued importance of diversity within the nursing profession. By prioritizing diversity, nursing organizations are not only addressing the current healthcare needs but are also preparing the nursing workforce for the future challenges and opportunities presented by a diverse society.

The Influence of Diversity in Nursing Leadership

Diversity in nursing leadership is crucial for creating a workplace environment that values and respects individuals from different backgrounds and perspectives. When nursing leadership embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion, it fosters a culture of appreciation for the unique experiences and insights that each team member brings to the table. For example, a diverse leadership team may include individuals from various racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds, as well as individuals with different gender identities and sexual orientations. This diversity allows for a rich exchange of ideas and approaches, leading to a more comprehensive and effective decision-making process within healthcare settings. Moreover, diverse healthcare teams have been found to exhibit improved communication and problem-solving skills, which directly contribute to better patient care outcomes.

Additionally, nursing organizations play a vital role in promoting and advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in leadership. By providing support, resources, and training opportunities, these organizations help to create a more inclusive workplace that values the contributions of individuals from all backgrounds. This inclusive environment not only improves patient outcomes by fostering culturally sensitive care but also enhances co-worker relationships, creating a supportive and collaborative atmosphere within healthcare teams. Therefore, the influence of diversity in nursing leadership extends beyond the organization itself, positively impacting the overall quality of patient care and the well-being of the healthcare workforce. Moreover, understanding diversity, equity, and inclusion in nursing practice and taking action to create an inclusive workplace is the first step to improving patient outcomes and co-worker relationships.

Implementation of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Nursing Practice

Nurses play a pivotal role in implementing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace by actively engaging in conversations that promote understanding and respect for diverse perspectives and backgrounds. For instance, nurses can initiate discussions on how to provide culturally competent care to patients from different ethnic, religious, or socioeconomic backgrounds, thereby fostering an inclusive environment.

Additionally, they can educate themselves and their colleagues about the significance of DEI in nursing practice, such as the impact of providing equitable care and the benefits of a diverse nursing workforce in delivering quality patient care. By educating others, nurses contribute to a more cohesive and culturally sensitive work environment, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and stronger co-worker relationships.

Furthermore, nurses can implement DEI in the workplace by celebrating differences and organizing cultural awareness events, where different cultures are celebrated and shared, fostering a sense of inclusivity and mutual respect among healthcare professionals. By embracing diversity, nurses can enhance their communication and problem-solving skills, making them more effective in delivering patient-centered care and addressing the diverse needs of their patients. These positive outcomes exemplify the vital role of diversity, equity, and inclusion in shaping nursing practice for the betterment of both healthcare professionals and the patients they serve.

The Future of Diversity in Nurse Education

The evolution of nursing demographics underscores the pressing need for diversity within the nursing workforce. Projections showing minority populations becoming the majority by 2045 emphasize the critical importance of creating a nursing workforce that reflects the changing demographics of the United States.

For instance, the U.S. population is becoming more diverse, with minority groups projected to constitute the majority in the near future. This shift in demographics underscores the necessity for nursing education to adapt and reflect the changing landscape of the patient population.

Additionally, initiatives and programs specifically designed to enhance diversity in nursing education and the workforce are essential for achieving these objectives. These programs not only provide financial support for underrepresented students pursuing nursing degrees but also encourage the recruitment and retention of minority faculty.

This approach aims to create an environment where students from diverse backgrounds can feel valued and supported, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive nursing workforce. Furthermore, nursing organizations are actively involved in advocating for increased federal funding for these programs, highlighting the continued importance of diversity within the nursing profession.

Their efforts are crucial in ensuring that the nursing workforce remains reflective of the diverse patient population, thus promoting culturally competent care and improving patient outcomes. By prioritizing diversity, nursing organizations are not only addressing the current healthcare needs but are also preparing the nursing workforce for the future challenges and opportunities presented by a diverse society.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the significance of diversity in nurse education cannot be overstated. Diversity in nurse education is crucial as it promotes cultural competence, enhances patient care, and addresses the evolving needs of a diverse population.

By embracing diversity, nurse educators and students can develop a deeper understanding of the cultural, social, and economic factors that impact healthcare delivery and patient outcomes. Moreover, the ongoing commitment to diversity within nurse education and the workforce is essential for creating a healthcare system that is inclusive, representative, and responsive to the needs of all individuals.

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]]> Will Being a CNA Help Me Get Into Nursing School? https://everynurse.org/will-being-cna-help-me-nursing-school/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=will-being-cna-help-me-nursing-school Thu, 21 Apr 2022 02:09:43 +0000 https://everynurse.org/?p=49927

HIGHER EDUCATION

Will Being a CNA Help You Get Into Nursing School?

Will Being a CNA Help Me Get Into Nursing School?

Many people become certified nursing assistants (CNAs) because working in healthcare is their dream. They have a passion for helping others, and CNA certification is a relatively fast and cost-effective way to enter the healthcare field and see tangible results from their efforts.

For some, becoming a CNA is only the first step on the road to nursing school and a career as a registered nurse. CNAs provide basic patient care and perform other essential support tasks that directly impact patient health, allowing them to develop critical skills and see firsthand the difference they can make in people’s lives.

While working as a CNA does not guarantee admission into nursing school, it can give you a significant advantage when it comes time to apply. In this article, we’ll explore some of the ways being a CNA can help you get into nursing school and provide you with a foundation for success as a registered nurse.

What Skills Will You Develop as a CNA?

As a CNA, you will have the opportunity to develop a wide range of skills essential in your role as a registered nurse. In CNA classes, you will learn how to take vital signs, perform basic medical procedures, and provide patients with routine personal care. You will also develop essential non-clinical skills such as effective communication, active listening, and critical thinking.

These skills will help you provide better patient care as a CNA, giving you a solid foundation to build on as you pursue your nursing career. In addition, by working closely with patients and other healthcare team members, you will better understand the day-to-day reality of being a nurse. This first-hand experience will be invaluable as you transition into roles with greater responsibility.

What Are the Benefits of Being a CNA?

There are many benefits to being a CNA, both in terms of your personal development and your future career prospects. Working in close proximity to registered nurses and other healthcare professionals will give you an inside view of the daily workings of a healthcare facility. You will also have the opportunity to develop strong relationships with patients and their families, which can be extremely rewarding.

In addition, the skills and experience you gain as a CNA will be beneficial when you apply to nursing school. Many nursing programs give preference to applicants with healthcare experience, and being a CNA will provide you with the perfect opportunity to demonstrate your commitment to a career in nursing.

A few lesser-known benefits of being a CNA include:

Endurance

What many people don’t realize when going into the nursing field is the constant flow of work that you will undertake. As a certified nursing assistant, you will be on your feet for long periods, moving around constantly to attend to patients’ needs. This type of work can be physically demanding, but it will also help you build the endurance to be a successful registered nurse.

Punctuality

In the nursing field, being on time is not just a matter of courtesy – it’s a matter of patient safety. As a CNA, you will be expected to arrive at your shift on time and be ready to work. This punctuality will serve you well as a registered nurse, where being late could have severe consequences for patients in your care.

Stress Management

In any healthcare setting, there will always be some level of stress present. It’s safe to say that medical care isn’t all rainbows and butterflies. As a CNA, you will learn to manage this stress in a fast-paced environment and maintain composure in challenging situations.

Flexibility

Another essential quality for nurses is the ability to be flexible. As a CNA, you will often deal with last-minute changes in shift patterns, patient numbers, and staffing levels. This flexibility will be beneficial when you are a registered nurse and have to juggle a busy schedule.

Detail-Oriented

As a CNA, you will be responsible for performing many tasks that require great attention to detail. This could range from taking vital signs and documenting patient information to ensuring that medication is administered correctly. Being detail-oriented will be essential in your future career as a registered nurse.

How Can You Use Your CNA Experience to Get Into Nursing School?

The nursing school admission process is typically very competitive, so it’s essential to put your best foot forward when applying. One way to do this is to highlight your experience as a CNA on your nursing school application.

Showcase Your Experience

The experience section of your nursing school application is the perfect place to highlight your experience as a CNA. Be sure to include any relevant information, such as the type of facility you worked in, the duties you were responsible for, and the length of time you worked as a CNA.

When describing your experience, be sure to focus on the aspects that will be most relevant to a career in nursing. Mention any special projects or initiatives you took part in and any positive feedback from patients, families, or coworkers.

Highlight Relevant Skills and Qualities

In addition to your experience, your application provides you with an excellent opportunity to showcase the skills and qualities you have developed as a CNA. For example, you could discuss how your experience has helped you develop strong relationships with patients and their families or how it has taught you the importance of being detail-oriented.

If you can connect your experience as a CNA to the qualities that are essential for success in nursing, your application is sure to stand out.

Use Your Experience to Write a Stand-Out Personal Statement

Your personal statement is another key component of your nursing school application. This is your chance to tell your story and demonstrate why you are the ideal candidate for the program.

When writing your personal statement, focus on how your experience as a CNA has influenced your decision to pursue higher education. What aspects of your experience have made you realize that nursing is the right career for you? How has your experience helped you develop a better understanding of the challenges and rewards of a career in nursing? Your personal statement is an opportunity to share your unique perspective and explain why you would be an asset to the nursing profession.

Use Your Experience to Demonstrate Commitment

One of the main reasons nursing school admissions committees look favorably on experience as a CNA is that it demonstrates a commitment to nursing. Pursuing higher education is a big decision, and the admissions committee wants to see that you are sure that nursing is the right career for you. If you can show that your experience as a CNA has solidified your decision to become a nurse, your application is likely to receive serious consideration.

Use Your Recommendations

References from supervisors or other healthcare professionals can be highly beneficial in the nursing school admission process. If you have a good relationship with your current or former employer, ask if they would be willing to write a letter of recommendation on your behalf.

If you have worked with any registered nurses in your previous role as a CNA, you could also ask them to provide a letter of recommendation. Having letters from supervisors and nurses will demonstrate to the admissions committee that you are well-rounded and experienced healthcare professional.

How to Transition From CNA to RN

After achieving the milestone of becoming a CNA, you may be wondering what’s next. Many certified nursing assistants (CNAs) use their experience as a stepping stone to return to school and pursue a career as a registered nurse (RN). If you’re interested in transitioning from CNA to RN, there are specialized programs that cater to your unique situation.

CNA to RN Bridge Programs

The most popular option for CNAs who want to become RNs is to enroll in a CNA to RN bridge program. As the name implies, a bridge program is designed to bridge the gap between your experience as a CNA and the education required to become an RN.

CNA to RN bridge programs give preference to students with previous nursing experience. You will often receive credit for the prerequisite courses completed during your CNA training, so you do not have to repeat coursework that you have already mastered. Additionally, you may receive course credit based on test scores or work experience. Together, these factors can dramatically reduce the time it takes to earn your RN degree – in some cases, by several semesters.

The Time Is Now

If you are interested in pursuing higher education and becoming a registered nurse, there is no better time to explore that possibility than now. With the massive amount of baby boomers aging out of the profession and a general rise in need, the demand for registered nurses is at an all-time high.

You can take advantage of this unique opportunity by leveraging your experience as a certified nursing assistant to gain admission into a nursing program. By using your experience to demonstrate your commitment and abilities, you can put yourself in a strong position to be admitted into the nursing program of your choice.

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]]> 5 Reasons to Transition From an LPN to RN https://everynurse.org/5-reasons-transition-lpn-rn/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=5-reasons-transition-lpn-rn Wed, 20 Apr 2022 00:40:57 +0000 https://everynurse.org/?p=49699

CAREER PATHS

5 Reasons to Transition From an LPN to RN

5 Reasons to Transition From an LPN to RN

Nursing is, without question, one of the most important and in-demand professions in the world today. Nurses at all levels play a vital role in providing care and compassion to patients in need, whether they are suffering from a minor ailment or a severe condition. Nearly every moment of a nurse’s day is spent caring for others, and it is a career that can be both immensely rewarding and highly challenging.

Nurses can take many different paths to find their niche and begin a successful career within the nursing profession. One such approach is transitioning from a licensed practical nurse (LPN) to a registered nurse (RN). Registered nurses have more autonomy than LPNs and are able to provide a higher level of care to patients. If you are currently an LPN, here are five reasons to consider transitioning from LPN to RN.

Reasons to Transition From LPN to RN

According to nursing job projections released by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, an estimated 2.2 million nurses will enter the workforce between 2014 and 2030. These projections underscore the importance of nurses at all levels and reflect the growing demand for registered nurses across the country.

Advancing within the nursing profession can offer many professional and personal benefits. Like most career transitions, making a move from LPN to RN can be both exciting and challenging. Here are five reasons to consider taking the next step in your nursing career:

1. Expand Your Skillset

As an LPN, you have undoubtedly gained a wealth of knowledge and experience in nursing. However, becoming an RN will allow you to expand your skillset and grow as a professional. Registered nurses receive more comprehensive training than LPNs, allowing them to provide a higher level of care to patients.

In addition to the increased knowledge and skills that come with becoming an RN, you will also have the opportunity to specialize in a particular area of nursing. This could include working with specific populations of patients, such as pediatrics or geriatrics, or focusing on a specific type of care, such as critical care or emergency nursing.

2. Increase Your Earning Potential

Leveling up your education and experience in any industry is the most direct path to increasing your earning potential. Within the nursing field, there is a significant difference in pay between RNs and LPNs that accompanies the expanded responsibilities of registered nurses.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the median annual salary for LPNs was $51,850, or $24.93 per hour, in May 2021. RNs, on the other hand, had a median yearly salary of $82,750, or $39.78 per hour. That pay increase is one of the most frequently cited reasons nurses transition from LPN to RN.

3. Enjoy Greater Autonomy

As an LPN, you are an essential member of the healthcare team, but you do not have the same level of autonomy as an RN. Making the transition to registered nurse will give you more independence in your work and allow you to exercise greater autonomy when caring for patients.

RNs are responsible for managing their own caseloads and can delegate tasks to LPNs and other healthcare team members. They also have the authority to make some decisions about patient care without consulting with a physician. Their scope of practice is broader than that of an LPN, giving RNs the ability to provide a more comprehensive level of care.

4. Enhance Your Job Opportunities

The work of an LPN is essential to the smooth running of any healthcare facility, but the upward mobility for LPNs is somewhat limited. With significant clinical experience, an LPN can earn promotions to charge nurse or lead LPN positions. Still, they will not be able to advance to management positions without first completing the educational requirements to become a registered nurse.

On the other hand, registered nurses are equipped with the knowledge and skills to take on leadership positions. RNs can pursue career paths that lead to management and executive roles, such as nurse manager or director of nursing. With additional education, they may also choose to teach in nursing programs or pursue careers in research or policy. There are no limits to what you can do within the nursing industry once you become an RN.

5. Make a Positive Impact on Patient Care

As an LPN, you play an important role in providing care to patients, but becoming an RN will allow you to make an even greater impact. RNs are responsible for more aspects of patient care than LPNs and often serve as the primary point of contact for patients and their families. In this role, RNs have the opportunity to make a positive impact on patient care by providing guidance and support throughout the healthcare journey.

Additionally (and perhaps more importantly), the skills you bring to the bedside as an RN can directly impact patient outcomes. Studies have shown that patients who are cared for by RNs have better health outcomes than those who are cared for by LPNs. RNs are also more likely to catch errors and provide timely interventions to prevent complications and save lives.

How to Make the Transition From LPN to RN

LPN to RN programs make it simple for individuals currently working in the field to upgrade their education and skills. LPN to RN programs cater to students already skilled in the basics of nursing by giving them credit for prior LPN education and experience. This approach can significantly accelerate the length of time it takes to complete an RN program, making it possible for working LPNs to earn their RN degree in as little as 15 months of full-time study.

LPN to RN Programs Online

Many colleges and universities offer LPN to RN programs online, which provide greater flexibility for working nurses. Online RN programs give students the ability to complete coursework around their existing work schedules and other commitments.

The online format also makes it possible for students to attend school from anywhere in the country, allowing them to choose a program that best meets their needs. For example, students who live in rural areas may opt for an online LPN to RN program that offers clinical experiences in their local community.

Is Making the Jump From LPN to RN Right for You?

Taking steps to become an RN is a big decision, but it can be rewarding. Making the transition from LPN to RN can open the door to new opportunities, improve your job prospects, and allow you to make a more significant impact on patient care. If you’re ready to take your nursing career to the next level, consider enrolling in an LPN to RN program today.

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]]> Why Is Nursing School So Hard to Get Into? https://everynurse.org/why-is-nursing-school-hard-to-get-into/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=why-is-nursing-school-hard-to-get-into Thu, 28 Oct 2021 02:08:51 +0000 https://everynurse.org/?p=25494

HIGHER EDUCATION

Why Is Nursing School So Hard to Get Into?

Why Is Nursing School So Hard to Get Into?

Nursing is a field that has seen rapid growth in recent years, with demand for nurses far outpacing supply. Nursing schools recognize that a severe nursing shortage exists in the United States, but are still rejecting thousands of qualified applicants each year. So, what explains the discrepancy between the growing need for nurses and lower enrollment numbers? In the article below, we will examine several of the most commonly proposed explanations and discuss ways to increase your chances of getting accepted into nursing school.

How Hard Is It to Get Into Nursing School?

Nurses at every level of patient care are trusted with the health and wellbeing of their patients, which is an enormous responsibility. You are quite literally responsible for the lives of your patients which requires a high level of professionalism, skill, and personal accountability. So, it makes sense that nursing programs would be demanding and selective when it comes to student admissions.

Nursing schools must carefully evaluate each applicant to ensure they are capable of handling the rigor and demands of a nursing program. They must have high academic and ethical standards for entry into the program and look for applicants that are capable of living up to the high standards of the profession. Nursing programs have a responsibility to not only the students that are accepted into their program but also to the profession as a whole.

A Third of Qualified Applicants are Turned Away

Competition for entry into nursing programs is intense. According to the National League of Nursing, roughly one-third of all qualified applications are rejected by BSN programs. Top nursing schools are looking for the “best of the best”, so even students with a high GPA may find themselves turned away. If you find yourself barely meeting the criteria for acceptance into a nursing program, you may need to consider applying to more than one school or taking steps to boost your qualifications prior to applying.

Three Reasons Why Nursing Schools Are So Competitive

As we have noted, nursing school admissions are extremely competitive. Standards are justifiably high due to the responsibility and consequences of working as a nurse. But, high standards are not the only factors that play into the difficulty level of getting accepted. There are other factors that make it difficult for nursing schools to expand enrollment. Let’s take a look at three of the most common explanations offered by nursing schools:

Insufficient Capacity

There are not enough nursing schools to meet the demand for nurses and nursing programs are limited to the number of students they can accommodate. Nursing schools receive thousands of applications from qualified applicants, but can only accept a fraction of as many students. Nursing programs are limited to their capacity by factors such as the size of their faculty, facilities, and equipment.

A Shortage of Faculty

Nursing educators are also in short supply, as nursing schools struggle to recruit and retain faculty. Nursing programs rely on a steady stream of qualified instructors to meet the needs of their students, so when faculty shortages occur, it can be difficult to expand enrollment.

Expensive Facilities and Technology

Equipping a campus for nursing education requires a substantial investment. Nursing schools are expensive to build and equip, which limits a nursing program’s ability to expand enrollment or accept more students. For example, nursing programs must provide equipment for experiential learning, such as IVs, catheters, nursing mannequins, lift beds, wheelchairs, and other simulation equipment so students can gain hands-on experience with the tools of modern nursing practice.

How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Accepted Into Nursing School

There are a few obvious steps you can take to improve your chances of being accepted into a nursing program, like having a high GPA and completing prerequisite courses. But, there are other factors that can help you get into nursing school as well.

Why Nursing?

The best advice about how to get into nursing school begins with the most basic question: why do you want to become a nurse? You must be able to articulate clearly why you want to be a nurse and what about nursing most appeals to you. Nursing schools are looking for students that have made an informed, deliberate decision about a career in nursing. Nursing programs want passionate applicants who have spent time reflecting on their reasons for wanting to be a nurse and can clearly communicate their reasons to admission committee members.

Highlight Your Unique Experiences To Set Yourself Apart

Nursing is a highly sought-after field, so you can be sure that other applicants will share your interest in nursing and have many of the same qualifications as you do. Use your unique experiences to set yourself apart from other applicants. Nursing programs are looking for students with diverse experiences and backgrounds. Nursing school admissions committees want to know you will be able to contribute something unique to their program.

Demonstrate Your Commitment to Nursing

Nursing is a difficult field that requires intensive preparation. Nursing school admissions committee members want to know you are committed to being successful, so be sure your application reflects this fact. For example, if you have taken the time and effort to volunteer in a healthcare setting or shadow nurses during their workday at hospitals and clinics, make sure your application reflects this fact. Obtaining relevant certifications, such as Basic Life Support (BLS) certification or Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification can also help you demonstrate genuine interest and commitment to learning.

Be Prepared To Apply to More Than One Nursing School

Prospective students often make the mistake of honing in on a single nursing program, when they should be applying to several programs. Not only can applying to multiple programs increase your odds of getting accepted, but you may also find a good match in a program that offers a nursing specialty or concentration not offered by your first choice school.

Also, the most direct path to a career in nursing may not be the geographically closest option. If you are willing to relocate for the right program, you will increase your options and open yourself to a variety of new experiences.

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]]> How Will Studying From Home Impact Healthcare Students? https://everynurse.org/how-studying-home-impact-healthcare-students/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=how-studying-home-impact-healthcare-students Fri, 26 Jun 2020 17:52:13 +0000 https://everynurse.org/?p=11140

HIGHER EDUCATION

How Will Studying From Home Impact Healthcare Students?

How Will Studying From Home Impact Healthcare Students?

With the alarmingly fast spread of Covid-19, every aspect of the life we knew changed. Almost every industry was put on hold with the only intention to contain the further spread of the virus. However, despite this temporary shutdown, new alternatives were created to bring a kind of order to the chaos surrounding the whole world.

This was also the case with education. Many universities around the United States and many overseas decided to shift their programs to online platforms. The decision was made in an attempt to save the students and staff from the risk of getting infected with the virus. While for some majors, this sudden change might seem relatively minor, for majors like hospitality and healthcare where students need hands-on experience to develop industry-related skills, the shift was a significant change. But how different and what impact will learning from home have for healthcare students specifically? Read on to find out.

Students Will See Little to No Change From Their Routine

A common tendency of medical students across the United States during the didactic years is to use outside resources and rewatch school lectures to prepare for the STEP examination. Thus, the cancellation of the classes won’t be that big of a change for their study schedule. There are many prevalent beliefs that learning from home isn’t the same as the in-person classes because there, students have the opportunity to give and receive immediate feedback on whatever they’re working on, and this is considered something hard to replicate online.

Still, this mandatory shutdown showed that students could do the activities they did before virtually with no problems— having small group meetings and maintaining study groups in an online forum. It seems that these activities can continue during the pandemic through teleconferences and webinars.

Students Can’t Attend Clinical Clerkships

The whole idea behind moving to online learning was to minimize the interaction between students and professors. This move would eventually lead to the virus being contained and the curve getting flattened while simultaneously reducing the risk of students getting exposed to the virus. Even though many students are willing to put themselves at risk, this decision was taken with their well-being in mind. These are only two of the reasons why clinical clerkships were canceled after the pandemic came knocking at the USA’s door. Another reason why the cancellation was a must is the lack of personal protective equipment. This step was taken to ensure the healthcare workers had enough equipment to protect themselves in the line of duty during the pandemic.

However, even though the students understand and maybe agree to a degree with the measures that were taken, this decision will undoubtedly impact their future careers. As we know, the bulk of the medical skills students acquire come from their practice in the hospital.

Medical Conferences Are Postponed

Due to the temporary lockdown because of the Coronavirus spread, medical conferences, too, were canceled. With the students moving back home, attending them isn’t possible. The conferences and the associated presentations medical students deliver are of great importance to students’ future. They use these conferences to build up their resumes and applications for residency. Now that they got canceled, students will have to find new ways to get the presentation and other related skills from other domains as well as find and engage in activities important enough to add to their resumes.

Students Might Not Be Able To Graduate

In these difficult times, the ideal solution would be for all medical students to contribute to the healthcare system. However, due to the measures taken to contain the spread of the virus, almost all of the students were sent home. Not only won’t they be of help, but they might also not be able to graduate on time. This is the problem nursing students are facing. California’s nursing students are required to obtain 75% of clinical hours in patient care to graduate. However, this requirement is now impossible to fulfill due to all non-essential personnel’s restrictions from the hospital.

That’s why nursing students released a petition, through which they asked the Board of Registered Nursing to find alternative solutions for them to fulfill graduation requirements. Also, in a letter directed to Gov. Gavin Newsom, the deans of several nursing schools asked for the state to lift the requirement temporarily and allow students to complete the requirements through simulations and other means.

The widespread of the virus Covid-19 brought difficulties to students all over the world. As students across the globe are trying to adapt to the new normality, it’s crucial to analyze the changes that are introduced in response to COVID-19 and their impact on medical education overall and the students’ career progression, personal and mental health.

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]]> Why an RN-to-BSN With No Pre Reqs Can Hurt Your Career https://everynurse.org/rn-bsn-no-prerequisites/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rn-bsn-no-prerequisites Sun, 17 May 2020 11:07:06 +0000 https://everynurse.org/?p=11332

HIGHER EDUCATION

Why an RN-to-BSN With No Prerequisites Can Hurt Your Nursing Career

Why an RN-to-BSN With No Pre Reqs Can Hurt Your Career

Many nurses choose to start their careers as an RN with an ADN (associate’s degree in nursing) because it is a faster and cheaper way to get registered as a nurse. As a registered nurse, you have the option to advance your career with an ADN-to-BSN bridge program (also known as an RN-to-BSN). Most nursing programs will require prerequisites to make sure you receive the full benefit of the BSN program.

What Are Nursing Prerequisites and Do They Really Matter?

Prereqs are classes that you need to take before you take higher-level classes.

Every program and institution will have different prerequisites and different appreciations for other programs. A class that has a prereq may signify how difficult the class is — especially if you have a good idea of what those prerequisite classes expect. Most course requirements are based directly on your academic record and profile. Some classes require a certain level of a high school class, but others may require first-year college-level classes. When you take classes to move from an ADN to a BSN, you will find that there are requirements before you begin the BSN. This ensures you are equipped for more intense coursework.

If you were to sign up for a traditional baccalaureate program, you would need a certain level of math, biology, English, and other prerequisites before starting. Typically, the course registration list will clarify what prereqs exist for a given glass. This ensures you are fully prepared for your degree’s required courses.

Why Are Nursing Prerequisites Important?

The BSN path to nursing will always have prereqs because of the nature of the classes. Students can explore topics in-depth since they already have the basic building blocks in the sciences and general education needed.

When it comes to the ADN-to-BSN program, your prereqs will be taken in the first year or so of a traditional nursing program. If you have not taken introductory nursing, science, and general education classes, then they must be done before the bridge program can truly be started.

Knowing which prerequisites will count toward your chosen bridge program at a specific college or university will factor into the length and cost of the program. If the college or university doesn’t want to apply certain credits to the RN-to-BSN program, then you may want to look into other programs at other schools. Different schools will have different requirements and some schools will “play nice” with competing programs better than others.

If a school feels that another school does not meet the criteria or demand equal to its own program, some credits may not transfer. If you earned your ADN from a good community college program or online nursing school, then the college offering the BSN bridge program will likely be able to convert many credits over to count toward the BSN degree program.

What Does It Take to Get Into a Good RN-to-BSN Program?

It can be hard to get into a traditional nursing school — especially a renowned program from a good college or university. Some professionals find it is easier to get their foot in the door with an ADN and RN license before applying to a BSN program. Most nursing program entry requirements will include:

  • Minimum SAT or ACT scores
  • Minimum GPA
  • Three years of math (including algebra II and geometry)
  • Three years of science (including chemistry and biology)
  • Four years of English classes
  • Two years of foreign language
  • Proof of a current RN license

Since the BSN bridge program is designed to meet working nurses in the field and builds on the abilities and knowledge they already have, nursing students cannot start this program without a current license as a registered nurse. Your status as a registered nurse will serve as proof that you already have the experience and understanding that comes with that profession.

If you have your nursing license but have not yet had a chance to actually work in the field, you can still register for a bridge program. Some programs will have opportunities to gain experience beyond the required clinicals for those nurses that haven’t worked in the field.

Do I Really Need Prereq GE Classes for a Bridge BSN Program?

What about the “non-nursing” classes?

Common GE (general education) courses that are typically considered prereqs include math, English, foreign language, human anatomy, human physiology, pathophysiology, communications, and more. Many schools will require you to earn a minimum grade to count the classes as transferable. While you might technically pass a class with anything above a D, a college or university bridge BSN program could decide to only count credits where you earned grades higher than a C or B.

How Long Does an RN-to-BSN Program Take?

Most colleges will have a maximum number of transferable classes as well. You won’t be able to enter the program and be finished or close to finished. However, many reputable programs will allow you to count more than half of the required program credits if your past degree and experience are applicable.

The length of the course will vary based on the school you choose and how that school is willing to apply credits toward their program requirements. Some schools will let you finish in about 18 months or three semesters. If you must take more prerequisites or go at a slower-than-full-time pace, it could take two to three years or more.

Can I Find an RN-to-BSN Program Without Prerequisites?

If you are joining a program that has no requirements for previous educational standards, you may need to evaluate the program carefully. Most colleges try to only require classes that form a basic understanding required for a nurse. If you are joining a BSN program mid-stream (starting as a registered nurse), you should be expected to know the basics of nursing. You are taking a shortcut to a BSN, so the ADN you hold should meet a certain standard to be fully counted.

While you might wonder why a class like algebra is relevant to your nursing degree, you need the math class to move on to statistics. And you need statistics to better understand research and improve nursing practices. This is an example of two common prereqs that nearly every nursing school will require an ADN-to-BSN program. Many classes become building blocks for other important classes, and the BSN-prepared nurse should be well-qualified for a career in healthcare.

There will be many aspects of the degree that do not require a specific class, only a specific class type. These are called electives. You can choose electives in the arts, humanities, social sciences, history, and more. This gives you flex room to pursue interesting classes that support the direction of your career.

The BSN degree itself is a building block that a nurse could use to get a Master of Science in Nursing degree and open even more doors for a career as a nurse. If you are ready to get your BSN, check out the best online nursing schools with RN-to-BSN bridge programs!

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]]> Is an Online Nursing Degree Program Right for You? https://everynurse.org/online-nursing-degree-right-for-you/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=online-nursing-degree-right-for-you Sat, 20 Oct 2018 12:57:02 +0000 https://everynurse.org/?p=10182

HIGHER EDUCATION

Is an Online Nursing Degree Program Right for You?

Is an Online Nursing Degree Program Right for You?

In today’s world of higher education, almost all nursing programs include some online courses. Traditional brick-and-mortar institutions include distance-learning components in the curriculum and the trend is growing. Many schools offer degrees completely online. There are very good reasons for this. From a lack of educators able to cope with the growing number of students to an effort to embrace modern technology at the academic level and use it to advance healthcare outcomes. Prospective nurses from the most rural places have access to nursing programs and there is a global collaboration that contributes to an incredible wealth of knowledge.

“Online programs draw students from across the nation and around the world,” Mary A. Bemker, an Academic Coordinator and Professor of Nursing at Sullivan University, said. “Nurses attending these classes benefit from insights presented by faculty and peers, who can expand discussions and understanding past what is found in a specific healthcare organization or geographic locale. Since the world is “shrinking” on many fronts, it is a definite advantage for nurses to exchange information and ideas with professionals from around the globe.”

The choice that nurses now face is whether to acquire their degree through an online program or to attend class on-site. The final decision is a strategic career choice and it is advisable to familiarize yourself with the pros and cons of an online nursing degree beforehand. There are solutions to all the disadvantages, but you must be ambitious enough to overcome them.

Dr. Susan Aldridge, the Senior Vice President of Drexel University Online, recently conducted research into how employers now view online degrees.

“Academic experts, employers, and recruiting professionals agree that to maximize the value of one’s credentials through online learning, the chosen program must meet three criteria,” Aldridge said. “The learning institution must be reputably accredited, have a traditional campus, and encompass a good academic brand.”

The Good

“I decided to pursue an online degree because it was the most logical and efficient manner in which I could achieve my goal of becoming a nurse,” Emily Walker, a registered nurse with a bachelor’s degree in nursing said. “I was looking for a program that would allow me flexibility and independence in my studies so that I could continue to work.”

Flexibility

Online programs offer great flexibility for nurses seeking advancement. They can log on anytime and from any location; enabling them to continue with family life, their professional career, or other commitments. This is one of the main reasons why many people desiring nursing careers were unable to pursue the study in the past. After all, life must go on. The advent of technology has brought about an enormous array of opportunities for nurses to further their education.

“I could do the work at night, on my off days, and even during my lunch hour if needed,” Anita Pool, who has a master’s degree in nursing, said. “I found the self-scheduling very compatible with my style of learning. The whole assignment could be done during the weekend and I would be finished for the rest of the week.”

Accessibility

Regardless of where you live, there are online nursing schools that cater to your area. Being able to study from a distance is an enormous advantage that makes obtaining nursing qualifications far more accessible to many people. With occasional campus visits sometimes required, nurses can study from home and serve their communities in the process.

Cost

Online nursing programs are much more cost-friendly. Curricular modules are sent to students online as opposed to a professor lecturing from a podium. The price is cut dramatically because classroom costs are not included in the fees. Students are not charged for electricity, library, or other resource usage either; which means that semester credits are much cheaper and culminate in saving large sums of money.

Study Pace

One of the biggest advantages of studying online is the ability to set your own study pace. While some schools have fixed the curriculum that is delivered according to a certain schedule; the majority of them allow students to complete the degree requirements quickly if need be or slowly as the student deems manageable. There is no pressure to finish their degree in a certain time frame and a student may earn their degree faster where necessary.

Technology

The use of modern technology is an integral part of online degree programs. It is impossible to study through the curriculum without at least a modicum of computer skills. Most students have a good understanding of computer technology by the time they graduate. This is looked upon favorably by prospective employers and gives you an advantage over many others in your professional environment.

Innovation

Distance-accessible learning programs do not offer clinical preceptors. This means that students must source their clinical sites; which require skills in research, application, out-of-the-box thinking, and persuasion. For students to gain the clinical experience required during online coursework, they must be motivated and adept at sourcing their clinical preceptors. This reflects the dedication, communication, and friendly relations with other nursing staff; which are highly sought-after attributes in the nursing industry.

“My online degree taught me to be very independent and provided me with excellent time management skills. I learned to balance my studies with my life and this has translated over to my professional career,” Walker explained. “My transition from school to work was very smooth and I have learned to apply myself in many productive ways.”

Bemker added that “having been in a position to manage and hire nursing faculty, I have found that faculty who graduated from an online program demonstrated the same high standard of professionalism and academic preparation as those who graduated from an on-ground campus.”

The Bad

Accreditation

Many online nursing programs have not been accredited, and many of them are in the early stages of development and therefore not reputable. In addition to this, a number of these online degrees have only sought regional accreditation. Students need to be particularly careful about this and do their research beforehand. If your degree is going to benefit you in your career, it must come from a reputable institution that has been accredited by a national accrediting association. The accreditation procedure is just as rigorous for all programs and online nursing schools are no exception to the rule.

“National accrediting associations use the same rigorous standards to assess and evaluate the quality of nursing programs offered online as those that are campus-based. Having been through multiple accreditations, I am well aware of the rigor and quality of those reviewing nursing programs on the ground and online,” Bemker said. “With so many nursing programs accredited with a hybrid or online format, the quality and credibility of the online degree are well evidenced.”

Help

One of the disadvantages of obtaining your degree online is the lack of help available when you need it. The faculty of these programs is always willing to assist students as much as possible, but it may take several days for you to get a reply to your question. The other members of these cohorts are usually strangers and many students do not reach out to them. Numerous schools are combating this by making it compulsory for students to meet on campus at the beginning of the program. It is advisable to find a mentor who will be able to help you during such times.

“If I wanted to ask a question I had to do it by either phone or email. An immediate response was seldom experienced. I found ways to supplement such as finding lectures through YouTube on a similar subject,” Anita Pool said. “I learned how to navigate our hospital’s online library and use their databases to search for information. I also searched for University websites. This becomes a minor inconvenience as I adjust.”

Travel

While students gain a massive advantage by not having to attend traditional classes, they still need to travel to gain hands-on experience. Clinical hours must be accumulated at hospitals or other clinical sites. If you live in a rural environment, then you may need to travel a few hours to attend these preceptors. This is one of the main reasons why many rural students opt for brick-and-mortar programs that offer residency options.

“I had recently married and moved to a small town. The closest traditional university was over an hour away,” Pool said. “I was also employed full-time as an RN and attending scheduled classes at an inconvenient location was simply impossible.”

Experience

Interacting with patients is a critical component of nursing and should be nurtured from the baccalaureate level via face-to-face interaction with faculty, fellow students and patients. Online nursing programs lack the hands-on experience required for such interaction and often graduates of these programs are wholly unprepared for a hospital setting. This problem can be counteracted by supplementing your degree with a hospital internship. The nursing school must also possess proper assessment protocols that will test whether students are able to apply their knowledge in a professional environment.

Discrimination

Due to the high rate of failure among nursing students studying online, the lack of proper clinical experience and accreditation shortages of these programs; many question the integrity of online nursing degrees. The growth in reputability of the online curriculum has curbed some of this discrimination. So now if you successfully complete an online nursing degree with the required clinical hours, then there is no reason for you to become a victim of such discrimination.

Procrastination

One of the main reasons why so many nursing students fail online programs is their ability to get the work done. With so much flexibility available, many suffer procrastination. They are tired from working a full shift, feeding the family, cleaning the house and more; studying is left for tomorrow. Successful completion of an online nursing degree is phenomenally challenging and requires sheer dedication and motivation. There is simply no time for procrastination.

Time Alone

Studying involves concentration and ‘alone’ time. It is imperative that you are able to put aside time where you will be able to do this without continual distractions. This is a major problem for many nurses experiencing long work hours, family responsibilities, or other commitments. Many students study when the kids have retired for the night, others send their families for fishing vacations every weekend. It is a necessary evil to exclude yourself when you need to study, but there are many innovative ways to create time for your studies that are fun for the whole family.

Workload

In some cases, the workload of core courses is almost double in nursing programs taught online. This is because written papers are more prevalent than in traditional programs and delivery is frequently required in shorter time-frames. This increases the workload in itself, but there is another aspect to consider. Students are not benefiting from auditory and visual lectures and they do not have immediate help available. They combat this through sourcing similar subjects from other online resources; such as YouTube, webinars, online libraries, hospital databases, university websites, and more.

“The success or failure of nurses in faculty has more to do with their own professionalism, ability to interact with students and their dedication to the job requirements than it has to do with the venue at which they obtained their degree,” Bemker said. “I would not hesitate to hire a nurse professional that graduated from an accredited online program if they possessed the degree requirements and skill sets needed for the job.”

Online nursing degrees are the ideal answer for many nurses without the means to attend brick-and-mortar programs. However, the freedom associated with distance-learning is potentially dangerous and results in many failures. Nobody is going to force course materials on you and you should not expect courtesy phone reminders for assignment deadlines. Studying on your own relies on dedication, willpower, motivation, and innovation; which are characteristics that are not negotiable if you wish to successfully complete your nursing degree online.

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]]> Push Expands for Nurses to Earn a Bachelor’s Degree – At Least https://everynurse.org/push-expands-for-nurses-to-earn-bachelors-degrees/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=push-expands-for-nurses-to-earn-bachelors-degrees Sat, 20 Oct 2018 07:59:51 +0000 https://everynurse.org/?p=10148

HIGHER EDUCATION

Push Expands for Nurses to Earn a Bachelor’s Degree – At Least

Push Expands for Nurses to Earn a Bachelor’s Degree – At Least

On the heels of a 2010 recommendation by the Institute of Medicine that 80 percent of nurses in the U.S. have a Bachelor of Science (BSN) or master’s degree by 2020, an increasing number of hospitals are telling their nurses that they must go back to school, or lose their jobs.

What’s more, states are now moving to enact “BSN in 10” laws requiring nurses to earn a BSN within 10 years of licensure. New York and New Jersey’s legislatures considered such a law during the 2013 legislative session, but neither passed it; cities in Rhode Island, as well as Long Island, are considering following suit, the New York Times reports.

By 2020, the RN could be a relic of the past.

New research is driving this trend, including studies by Dr. Linda Aiken at the University of Pennsylvania showing that, for every 10 percent increase in nurses with BSN or higher degrees on a hospital’s staff, patient mortality decreases by 4 percent.

“We’re safer in hospitals with bachelor-educated nurses,” says D. Anthony Forrester, Professor and Senior Associate Dean of Academic Affairs and Administration at the Rutgers School of Nursing.

Surgical patients in “magnet” hospitals, or those recognized by the American Nurses Credentialing Center for quality patient care, nursing excellence, and innovations in professional nursing practice, have shown a 14 percent lower chance of dying in the hospital within 30 days, and 12 percent lower odds of dying because they could not be resuscitated than those in non-magnet hospitals, Forrester says. Magnet hospitals strive for BSN or higher degrees among 80 percent of their nurses.

Marie Barry, senior policy analyst for the American Nurses Association, started her nursing career in 1989 as a registered nurse with an associate’s degree. Soon she began pursuing a BSN part-time, attending classes on weekends while working during the week, and with two small children at home.

Now with a master’s degree and pursuing her doctoral degree, she’s a firm believer in the power of education to transform nursing, she says.

“Each layer builds upon something that was prior,” Barry says. “It’s like constructing a building, or building a cake, something wonderful — each layer matters.”

A Plethora of Skills Learned

What nurses gain from those additional years in the classroom and the field, Forrester says: is leadership and management skills; case management skills; technological savvy; and the ability to better promote good health.

“At its core, professional nursing is really about teaching. It’s not about the things we do, but about the knowledge a nurse possesses and can impart to the patient, to family members, and to the community,” he says. “What a nurse is trying to do is change behaviors to achieve better health.”

Better-educated nurses also learn critical thinking skills enabling them to not only keep up with the latest research but to analyze the results and to use them to promote changes in the field. With many hospitals paying their nurses’ tuition and fees, it’s incumbent upon those in the profession to educate themselves and improve their patients’ outcomes, Forrester says.

“Patients and families are much more complex than they’ve ever been before,” he says. “Why would the health consumer want a lesser-educated provider? The society demands it.”

So many other healthcare professions require advanced degrees, Barry points out, including not only doctors but also physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech and language pathologists. To collaborate and communicate effectively with them, it makes sense for nurses to have advanced degrees, too, she says.

“I can be a more effective part of the team, and have a greater awareness of my capabilities and what I bring to the table,” she says.

“Experience is very valuable,” Barry says, “however, education adds a whole ‘nother dimension. Every educational course adds another stroke to the portrait.”

Forrester’s advice to nurses, no matter what their credentials now: Go back to school. Whatever your degree, go for another one.

“You are never, ever, ever making a mistake when you continue your education in nursing,” he says. “You can open that many more doors, that many more practice avenues, that many more things you can do.

“Going to school never made anybody stupid. It may not have made them smarter, but it didn’t make them stupid.”

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