BSN

BSN: A Source of Unification or Division

Abstract

In this study we try to explore the concept of different education requirement to enter into nursing practice in a holistic context. The main focus of the research is on ADN vs. BSN and its relation with nursing. The research also analyzes many aspects of getting a BSN degree and tries to gauge its effect on nursing. Finally the research describes various recommendations with which improvement can be brought in the field of nursing and in adopting the BSN.

BSN: A Source of Unification or Division

Introduction

“Constant attention by a good nurse may be just as important as a major operation by a surgeon”. These are the words of Dag Hammarskjold. This statement truly expresses the importance of the role of a nurse. Nurses play their integral role in facilitating a patient effectively and efficiently. This paper revolves around the professionalism of nursing. In an era where patients are more aware about the treatment they are getting from registered nurses, there is a need to bring reformation in the existing courses and diplomas for nurses. Realizing the fact, nursing professional in United States introduced BSN (Bachelors of Science in Nursing) a course more updated and have potential to train nurses for better handling their patients. Because of the introduction of BSN, ADN or (Associate Degree inNursing) demand has been decreased, and BSN holder nurses are preferred over holders of ADN. Nursing professional, researchers and educationist have doubts that this change would create either unification or division among BSN and ADN holder nurses.

For those, who seek their career in nursing can opt for BSN, but those who are already graduted under ADN may find it difficult to adjust with the BSN graduated nurses. However, this is merely an assumption, which can only be clarified if this subject will be discussed in detail. In this connection, this study will discuss the subject in order to find out whether this change will create division or unification among nurses.

Research Question

It is better to opt for BSN rather than ADN to enter into the field of nursing and this would be a source of unification for registered nurses.

How diploma, ADN and BSN nursing education have evolved the rationale for the BSN as the entry level into professional nursing practice

It was in 1965, when the association of American nurses decided and set the requirement of baccalaureate degree to enter in the field of nursing as the rule. By doing so, the American Nurses Association made an attempt to move the profession of nursing from hospital based learning to actual learning settings such as colleges and universities and from a profession to be learned through apprenticeship to a well defined and systematized fields of science based and logical learning. ANA position that those interested in the technical side of nursing would enroll in two-year programs, and those interested the professional aspect of nursing would go for four-year programs. It has been forty years that ANA has taken this initiative, but still this ...