associate-degree or diploma nurse

associate-degree or diploma nurse

1-Research supports that the baccalaureate-educated nurse brings a more comprehensive and in-depth education to the healthcare arena than the associate-degree or diploma nurse. This past spring, renowned nurse researcher Linda Aiken co-authored a study that contributes to a growing body of evidence suggesting that a more educated nursing workforce translates into better patient outcomes. “Among the conclusions made by Aiken was that patients in hospitals in which 60% of nurses had bachelor’s degrees and nurses cared for an average of six patients would have almost 30% lower mortality than patients in hospitals in which only 30% of nurses had bachelor’s degrees and nurses cared for an average of eight patients.

Reference

Passmore, S. (2019, March 12). How Does Your Nursing Degree Affect Patient Mortality Rates? Retrieved March 22, 2019, from https://www.americansentinel.edu/blog/2014/06/04/how-does-your-nursing-degree-affect-patient-mortality-rates/

2-From my experience all nurses including BSN, Diploma and Associate Degree RN’s have better understanding of the entire healthcare system and an in-depth understanding about a patient’s overall history that automatically helps them make better and faster decisions, make fewer errors and better guide the patients and their families. However times are changing and rapidly expanding clinical knowledge and mounting complexities in health care mandate that professional nurses possess educational preparation commensurate with the diversified responsibilities required of them. As health care shifts from hospital-centered, inpatient care to more primary and preventive care throughout the community, the health system requires registered nurses who not only can practice across multiple settings – both within and beyond hospitals – but can function with more independence in clinical decision making, case management, provision of direct bedside care, supervision of unlicensed aides and other support personnel, guiding patients through the maze of health care resources, and educating patients on treatment regimens and adoption of healthy lifestyles. Having a BSN degree allows more opportunity for employment, increased responsibility, and career progression.

American Association of Colleges of Nursing (2013). 2012-2013 Enrollment and graduations in baccalaureate and graduate programs in nursing. Washington, DC