A nursing professional treats patients in both clinical and nonclinical settings. You will find nurses in doctor's offices, hospitals, and community care facilities. According to the Bureau of Labor, registered nurses (RN) represent the largest healthcare workforce in the United States. Opportunities in the nursing field are projected to grow with a 23% increase in overall employment opportunities for qualified candidates. This growth can be attributed in large part due to an increased aging population as baby boomers continue to retire. Although a nurse can work in several different specialty areas, their responsibilities are very similar regardless of the area of expertise or work setting. RNs provide patient education, establish a plan of care, and administer medications along with numerous other responsibilities.
ADN and BSN Degree Options
Two educational tracks are available to individuals interested in pursuing a career in nursing. To qualify for both, a student must first complete an associate degree in nursing prior to applying for an RN license. However, although a BSN must be licensed as an RN, a BSN is not required to apply for an RN license. ADN programs typically can be completed in two years.
A two year nursing program provides learning opportunities in a classroom, laboratory, and hospital setting. Providing hands on patient care experience is a critical component of the program. Once a student successfully graduates from an ADN program, they can immediately apply to their state of choice for a nursing license.
Initially, similar opportunities will be available to both types of nursing professionals. Therefore, upon completion of RN license requirements, nursing professionals who obtain their RN license may immediately pursue a staff position in the nursing profession. However, a newly licensed graduate may decide to pursue a bachelor of science in nursing degree. BSN programs vary in length with time commitments anywhere from 24 months to four years. In fact, several online and traditional programs are available where a licensed RN can transfer into an RN to BSN program and complete a BSN degree in approximately two years. Alternatively, a nursing student may enroll in a traditional academic program to obtain their nursing license along with their BSN.
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An accredited BSN curriculum educates students on clinical, scientific, critical thinking, and patient education. The programs normally also include a leadership track to prepare candidates for management level opportunities. If an RN was not already obtained, upon program completion, the graduate still must apply for RN license. In most cases, a BSN degree is necessary to secure higher paying opportunities offering more responsibility. In fact, a nurse with a BSN degree can earn approximately $20,000 more than a candidate with only an RN license. Additionally, they are positioned to apply for an academic program that offers a degree as a nurse practitioner. A nurse practitioner is educated to diagnose and treat using prescription drugs.
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