Changes in nursing involve a major shift in higher education standards, requiring more nurses to hold a 4-year bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). The new requirements stem from research by the Institute of Medicine (IOM) that showed significantly improved patient outcomes when there was an increase in BSNs.
BSN, ADN, RN: The Difference in The Letters
Of course, all nurses are rigorously trained to provide patient care. Let’s review the different levels of training for each position by taking a closer look at the letters that come after a nurse’s name. BSN means bachelor of science in nursing, ADN means associate degree in nursing, and RN means registered nurse.
BSN is a diploma from a 4-year program: A person with a BSN has graduated from a four-year nursing program at a college, university, or nursing school.
ADN is a diploma from a 2-year program: A person with an ADN has graduated from a two-year nursing school.
RN is a certification: A person with the RN designation has passed a national licensing exam—after graduating from a nursing program with a BSN or an ADN. The licensing exam is called NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination), and it’s a nationwide test required to license nurses.
So, if you’re an RN with a two-year ADN, are there reasons to go back to school and earn your four-year BSN degree? Well, that depends on you and your goals. But thousands of students and nurses are getting their BSN—and many of them are doing it in direct response to the IOM recommendation for more nurses to be BSN-prepared. If the IOM says that more BSNs are better for patient health, then nurses everywhere are going to respond.
Here are 5 reasons why you might want to pursue a BSN degree:
Open the doors for a teaching position;
Upward mobility and career development;
Salary;
Stand out in the applicant pool;
Be the difference and make a difference in patient care.
Sumner College’s new BSN degree program can be completed in less than 3 years. No prerequisites courses are required and we accept transfer credits. Learn more today by visiting www.sumnercollege.com
The Importance of A BSN
Nursing students who are weighing their options for earning a Bachelors of Science in Nursing might ask the question, “What is the value of a BSN?” It’s a fair question. After all, they want to make sure a bachelor’s in nursing is worth the investment of time, money and energy.
A recent article in Nurse Journal noted that while an associate degree “can qualify one to become an RN in most states, earning a BSN will often bring higher pay and better job options.” Many healthcare employers are now requiring RNs to have BSNs for certain positions, like ICU nurse or surgical nurse.
At Sumner College, if you are a registered nurse wanting to advance your career and your education, the RN to BSN Program is a great option for you. Our program is offered 100% online and can be completed in just 13 months, allowing you to work while you pursue your educational goals.
Knowing upcoming healthcare trends can help guide your practice and decisions. Two nursing leaders share the top 10 trends they expect in 2022.
While dramatic changes were happening in healthcare before the pandemic, COVID-19 caused these changes to occur more quickly. These changes have helped address stresses placed on the healthcare system.
We spoke with two seasoned nursing leaders about the trends in healthcare expected in 2022. We discuss those trends and offer insight into how healthcare delivery is evolving.
10 Nursing Trends We Expect to See in the Coming Years
The last of the baby boomer generation will retire in 2030. This means changes in how healthcare is delivered will be necessary to meet more complex medical needs. Nursing leaders expect to see these ten trending patterns in the coming year. They will affect how nursing care is managed and delivered.
1. Job Growth for Nurses Will Continue to Rise
The world is in the middle of a critical nursing shortage. Many factors have contributed to the current situation:
Increased demand for care during the pandemic
Retiring nurse educators mean a falling number of nursing faculty
Nurse burnout from the pandemic
An aging population with complex medical needs
Nursing staff reaching retirement
Greater shortage in rural areas
Job growth is a function of supply and demand. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the job growth for registered nurses (RNs) through 2030 to be 9%, as fast as average. They also estimate job growth for advanced practice nurses through 2030 to be 45%.
2. Home Health Will Increase in Popularity
Demand for home healthcare nurses will grow as the population ages. However, COVID-19 prompted an unexpected rise in need for these services. Home health benefits are a lifeline for vulnerable patients who are at increased risk of medical complications. This includes infectious illnesses like COVID-19.
In response, a new bill called the Choose Home Care Act was introduced to the Senate in July 2021 and to the U.S. House of Representatives in October 2021. If passed, it would expand the benefits provided by Medicare for home healthcare services. It would also open the door to more remote monitoring and tele health nursing services for seniors. Seniors could choose to go home rather than a skilled nursing facility after hospitalization.
As home healthcare expands, experts are calling for greater standardization in the industry. They point out that license requirements are not uniform across states, making applications at the federal level next to impossible. Industry leaders are calling for standard on boarding and vetting procedures. It would include background checks, experience, certification, and social security verification.
3. Care Models Will Experience a Necessary Shift
Anne Dabrow Woods, chief nurse at Wolters Kluwer Health, anticipates a necessary shift in how nursing care models are applied due to COVID-19. For instance, the New York-Presbyterian Healthcare System carried out a vigorous model of nursing care during the pandemic.
There are two key components to how care is delivered:
The mode of delivery
The skills of nurses on the hospital unit
“Healthcare models must migrate from traditional nurse-to-patient staffing models to a more agile one in times of crisis, that facilitates flexibility and supports the best care for patients,” Dabrow Woods explains.
While staffing must be based on patients’ care level and staff competency, Dabrow Woods proposes an improved model during crisis management: team-based with an increase in floating nurses.
This system would allow hospitals to address hardships caused by future public health events or insufficient staffing, not unlike what we face now with COVID-19. Dabrow Woods stresses the need to be flexible. A care model should always support an organization and a nurse’s ability to deliver excellent patient care.
To continue reading this article visit Nursing Journal – Nursing and Healthcare Trends in 2022
Written by: Gayle Morris, RN, BSN, MSN
Photo Credit: Shared from Nursing Journal / Getty Images
From Bitter to Blessed – Nursing Christmas Story
This Christmas story was written by a nurse we’d call Any Nurse. And just like most nurses, she wasn’t too eager to work on Christmas Day. In fact, she dreaded the shift from the moment her alarm clock woke her up.
But just like most nurses, Any Nurse had to go to the hospital. As soon as she started her shift, IV alarms started beeping, call lights were ringing, and pharmacy techs became busy delivering medications.
While she was busy trying to get an IV in one stick on a patient who badly needed a blood transfusion, a code blue was paged. Her heart jumped and skipped a little imagining that someone’s loved one was coding on such a special day.
Down the hall, she saw Valerie. She’s a 2-year old burn patient, a victim of a kitchen accident. Any Nurse hoped that Valerie wouldn’t have any disfiguring scars. Just imagining Valeria at 13 years old and dealing with those scars made her heart hurt. Any Nurse has a 2-year-old kid.
She went on to help Anita, her nursing assistant. They bathe a 76-year-old patient who was admitted with a stroke. The two of them combed the patient’s thinning hair and applied a red lipstick to her lips. With the patient’s garbled speech, she managed to say “Thank you, dear.”
On her way back to the station, Any Nurse answered a call light from a patient who was cold. She went to the supply room and found several blanket warmers. As she gave one to her patient, she saw her smile as the warmth seeped in.
After her shift, Any Nurse felt really excited to go home, share her day with her husband, and cuddle with her healthy kids.
Sumner College understands that every student’s financial situation is unique. Our financial aid department can provide you with more information about Oregon financial aid options and show you how to apply for financial assistance.
If you have not already done so, it is important for you to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and schedule a time to meet with a Financial Aid Representative prior to enrollment. During your appointment, we can help you find and apply for financial aid. We can also help you find out what you are qualified for and what kind of loans will be needed.
Many of the specific eligibility requirements to gain and retain Federal Aid eligibility can be found in the publications provided by the U.S. Department of Education and on their websites at studentaid.ed.gov/eligibility. Many of these booklets, brochures, pamphlets, applications and other consumer information available at the Campus Financial Aid Offices.
If you are not sure how to fill out the FAFSA, the Financial Aid department at Sumner College will assist you with the application. Complete your Electronic Master Promissory Note and entrance counseling for student loans at studentloans.gov/myDirectLoan/index.action.
School Code for Sumner College: 014581
Dream It. Do It! Advance your career at Sumner College
You dreamed that someday you’d work in the medical field – It’s time to take the next step!
ANA Urges US Department of Health and Human Services to Declare Nurse Staffing Shortage a National Crisis
This press release was originally published Sep 1, 2021 by the ANA. For more information visit their website.
SILVER SPRING, MD – The American Nurses Association (ANA), representing the interests of the nation’s 4.2 million nurses, urges the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to declare the current and unsustainable nurse staffing shortage facing our country a national crisis. In a letter to HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, ANA calls for the Administration to acknowledge and take concrete action to address the current crisis-level nurse staffing shortage that puts nurses’ ability to care for patients in jeopardy.
“The nation’s health care delivery systems are overwhelmed, and nurses are tired and frustrated as this persistent pandemic rages on with no end in sight. Nurses alone cannot solve this longstanding issue and it is not our burden to carry,” said ANA President Ernest Grant, PhD, RN, FAAN. “If we truly value the immeasurable contributions of the nursing workforce, then it is imperative that HHS utilize all available authorities to address this issue.”
ANA calls on the Administration to deploy these policy solutions to address the dire nurse staffing shortage crisis. HHS must:
Convene stakeholders to identify short- and long-term solutions to staffing challenges to face the demand of the COVID-19 pandemic response, ensure the nation’s health care delivery system is best equipped to provide quality care for patients, and prepared for the future challenges.
Work with the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) on methodologies and approaches to promote payment equity for nursing services and remove unnecessary regulatory barriers to APRN practice.
Educate the nation on the importance of the COVID-19 vaccine to provide resources for widespread administration of the COVID-19 vaccine and any subsequent boosters.
Sustain a nursing workforce that meets current and future staffing demands to ensure access to care for patients and prioritize the mental health of nurses and other health professionals.
Provide additional resources including recruitment and retention incentives that will attract students to the nursing profession and retain skilled nurses to the demands of patient care.
“ANA stands ready to work with HHS and other stakeholders on a whole of government approach to ensure we have a strong nursing workforce today and in the future,” said Dr. Grant. “Our nation must have a robust nursing workforce at peak health and wellness to administer COVID-19 vaccines, educate communities, and provide safe patient care for millions of Americans. We cannot be a healthy nation until we commit to address underlying, chronic nursing workforce challenges that have persisted for decades.”
# # #
The American Nurses Association (ANA) is the premier organization representing the interests of the nation’s 4.3 million registered nurses. ANA advances the profession by fostering high standards of nursing practice, promoting a safe and ethical work environment, bolstering the health and wellness of nurses, and advocating on health care issues that affect nurses and the public. ANA is at the forefront of improving the quality of health care for all. For more information, visitwww.nursingworld.org.
Should I be a Nurse?
By: American Nurses Association – Shared from the ANA website
6 Things to Consider When Choosing a Nursing Career
Nursing is a fantastic career choice that has a huge amount of benefits, ranging from fantastic opportunities to personal fulfillment. Before you jump into a nursing course or role, however, it’s important to make sure that the role fits you. Nursing can be one of the most rewarding careers in the world, but it does require commitment and compassion, so it’s best to get a realistic understanding of what’s involved before you start. We’ve highlighted six key things to consider before pursuing a career in nursing.
To give some insight into how these points affect real nurses, we’ve spoken with Beth Hawkes, a Registered Nurse, to see how she balances them in her work.
Beth Hawkes is a Nursing Professional Development Specialist with a long and diverse background in acute care. She’s a published author, owner of the award-winning blog, nursecode.com and popular career columnist for allnurses.com. She is widely known on social media as Nurse Beth.
1. Caring is Key
As a nurse, you’ll be there for your patients through the good times and bad, you’ll become a vital part of their support network and often play a pivotal role in their comfort and happiness. Being able to make a difference in people’s lives is one of the most fulfilling aspects of being a nurse. But it’s not without its challenges.
Supporting patients can be emotionally and psychologically draining. A busy schedule can mean you don’t always feel like you’re there as much as you like for your patients. It can also leave you finding yourself emotionally drained at the end of a difficult day. To be a successful nurse, you must be driven by compassion and the desire to help people. This will enable you to get satisfaction from your work, even during the tougher times.
Nurse Beth says that creating these caring connections is her favourite thing about being a nurse. She says “I didn’t know this before I became a nurse, but my favourite thing about my job is the connection I make with my patients in times of need. It’s a privilege to be allowed in that space. There is nothing more gratifying to me than providing comfort and safe passage. Sometimes it’s when I recognize early signs of sepsis and intervene. Other times it’s creating a safe, non-judgmental space. And sometimes it’s simply a warm blanket tucked in just so.”
2. Be Resilient
Resilience has long been cited as a key characteristic of those in nursing. The nature of the job you’re doing means you have to take the highs with the lows. Choosing nursing means you can be with people as they overcome some of the biggest challenges they’ll face in their lives. But you may also be there at their lowest points too.
It’s important to establish this skill at the beginning of your career. Nurse Beth learnt resilience early on, working in emotional situations. She says “I would empathize with a patient or family, maybe to the point of tears, but then step out into the hall and quickly be composed and available for my next patient. It’s when I cared for a brain dead 45-year-old mother of two being kept alive for organ harvesting while the eleven-year-old daughter was at the bedside. Being therapeutic means meeting my patients at their point of need, which calls for both sensitivity and resiliency.”
This can be emotionally draining and may mean you have to work with people at their most vulnerable and upset. It’s important for nurses to be resilient enough to work in a wide variety of situations and still be there for their patients. If you are compassionate and resilient, nursing is likely to be a fantastic and incredibly rewarding career for you.
3. The Pros and Cons of Shift Work
The demand for nursing never stops, so the reality of life for most nurses includes shift work and some unsociable hours. A regular nursing shift pattern involves three days working 12-hour shifts, followed by four days off. 12-hour shifts let nurses become involved in and familiar with their patients’ care plans and lessen the number of changes of staff. Meaning more consistency for those under their care.
Taking four days off following three days of shifts allows nurses to rest and relax, giving time to keep themselves in top condition to provide quality care for their patients. The three on, four off pattern of working also allows nurses time to spend with their family or pursue their hobbies.
In order to handle shift work and make the most of the potential benefits for your lifestyle it’s important to get the best sleep you can. Some helpful tips to achieve this include:
Block out light from your bedroom with window coverings or blackout blinds
Turn your phone off when trying to sleep
Invest in a good quality, comfortable, and supportive mattress and pillow
Ask for support from friends and family by being considerate of your sleeping pattern
Nurse Beth says that it is important to find a pattern that works for you, while pulling your weight as part of a team. “While less desirable shifts have to be shared fairly, I advocate for nurses finding the right fit for themselves, and managers working with their staff to help them do the same. Some nurses simply cannot tolerate night shift. Others thrive. When you find the right place for you, your performance is at its best.”
4. Keep Active
Being a nurse will definitely help you keep on your feet and remain active. A common part of the job is spending a lot of your time walking, doing rounds, and helping patients. A study from 2006 found that nurses walk an average of between four and five miles in the course of a 12-hour shift.
A good level of fitness is a great benefit to potential nurses. It’ll help you stay focused and energetic while getting your job done. It’s also worth taking care of your body and investing in shoes and clothing that will support your body and stave off fatigue. Supportive clogs and trainers can help prevent weary feet. If you make the choice to pursue nursing, try changing your shoes half-way through your shift. This way you’ll have the benefit of uncompressed support round the clock.
5. There’s a Balance Between Science and Service
A career in nursing means undertaking the dual roles of providing excellent service and care to all patients and visitors, while also taking a scientific approach to monitoring their condition and analyzing their progress. This can be a fine line to walk and it’s okay to be stronger in one area than the other. But it is important that you’re happy and able to work in both of these areas.
The balance you’d have to strike between science and service in your career as a nurse varies depending on the type of nursing work you choose. Certified nursing Assistants (CNAs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) tend to work either under Registered Nurses (RNs) or in care homes or home health facilities. These roles are often more weighted towards service, with some routine medical monitoring.
Specialized nursing roles like Nurse Practitioner, however, may require more extensive scientific skills and understanding. This position requires classification, treatment, and management of chronic diseases, interpretation of diagnostic tests, and performance of a wide range of procedures. It’s important to take into account where you want your balance to be between science and service when you’re planning your nursing career.
There is pleasure to be taken from both sides of the role, as Nurse Beth has found throughout here career. “I apply my expertise to each patient while being cognizant of their comfort and needs. I know how to start an IV with the least amount of pain while paying attention to their unspoken fears and anxiety. Sometimes I can administer subcutaneous insulin and they don’t even know it was given.
“I am as gratified brewing a cup of fresh coffee for my post-angiogram patient who was NPO for twelve hours as I am in recognizing when he shows early signs of a retroperitoneal bleed.
“Patients often don’t know my expertise because my critical thinking skills are always working on their behalf but behind the scenes. Even when they think we are just talking I’m critically assessing them. And in the words of Maya Angelou, they do know how I made them feel.”
To learn more about the different roles and responsibilities of nurse roles, take a look at our information on types of nurses.
6. On-Going Education is Important
One of the huge benefits of a career in nursing is the opportunities it offers for development and progress. There are so many ways for you to shape your career, whether it’s through diving into a specialism, like oncology, or striving for a senior role like Nurse Practitioner.
Nurse Beth has made a career out of advocating for nursing professional development, becoming a Nursing Professional Development Specialist. She believes that life-long learning is what will take nursing professionals to the next level. In her work, mentoring has been a big part of what can drive professional development, whether this is in a formal or informal setting.
To really get the most of all the incredible opportunities open to you on this career path, you need to be committed to on-going education. As a nurse, you’ll find opportunities for learning all around you every day. In addition to this, you should also pursue other opportunities to develop your skills. This could be reading academic articles, attending seminars and workshops, or undertaking new certificates and qualifications.
To keep up to date with qualifications and courses that will help your career in nursing, sign up to our newsletter.
If these sound like qualities you possess, then a career in nursing could be the perfect path for you. Although nursing can be challenging, those in the profession are overwhelmingly happy with their choice. 83% of those surveyed by AMN Healthcare’s 2017 Survey of Registered Nurses said they were satisfied with their choice of career.
Being a nurse is one of the most fulfilling jobs in the world. It allows you to make a real, tangible difference in people’s lives and offer them support when they need it most.
It also offers fantastic stability, benefits, and advancement opportunities, so you can support you and your family. If you think you’re suited to a career in nursing and want to get started, sign up for our newsletter written by experts from American Nurses Associations (ANA), to get expert help on taking the next steps.
By: American Nurses Association – Shared from the ANA website
6 Things to Consider When Choosing a Nursing Career
Nursing is a fantastic career choice that has a huge amount of benefits, ranging from fantastic opportunities to personal fulfillment. Before you jump into a nursing course or role, however, it’s important to make sure that the role fits you. Nursing can be one of the most rewarding careers in the world, but it does require commitment and compassion, so it’s best to get a realistic understanding of what’s involved before you start. We’ve highlighted six key things to consider before pursuing a career in nursing.
To give some insight into how these points affect real nurses, we’ve spoken with Beth Hawkes, a Registered Nurse, to see how she balances them in her work.
Beth Hawkes is a Nursing Professional Development Specialist with a long and diverse background in acute care. She’s a published author, owner of the award-winning blog, nursecode.com and popular career columnist for allnurses.com. She is widely known on social media as Nurse Beth.
1. Caring is Key
As a nurse, you’ll be there for your patients through the good times and bad, you’ll become a vital part of their support network and often play a pivotal role in their comfort and happiness. Being able to make a difference in people’s lives is one of the most fulfilling aspects of being a nurse. But it’s not without its challenges.
Supporting patients can be emotionally and psychologically draining. A busy schedule can mean you don’t always feel like you’re there as much as you like for your patients. It can also leave you finding yourself emotionally drained at the end of a difficult day. To be a successful nurse, you must be driven by compassion and the desire to help people. This will enable you to get satisfaction from your work, even during the tougher times.
Nurse Beth says that creating these caring connections is her favourite thing about being a nurse. She says “I didn’t know this before I became a nurse, but my favourite thing about my job is the connection I make with my patients in times of need. It’s a privilege to be allowed in that space. There is nothing more gratifying to me than providing comfort and safe passage. Sometimes it’s when I recognize early signs of sepsis and intervene. Other times it’s creating a safe, non-judgmental space. And sometimes it’s simply a warm blanket tucked in just so.”
2. Be Resilient
Resilience has long been cited as a key characteristic of those in nursing. The nature of the job you’re doing means you have to take the highs with the lows. Choosing nursing means you can be with people as they overcome some of the biggest challenges they’ll face in their lives. But you may also be there at their lowest points too.
It’s important to establish this skill at the beginning of your career. Nurse Beth learnt resilience early on, working in emotional situations. She says “I would empathize with a patient or family, maybe to the point of tears, but then step out into the hall and quickly be composed and available for my next patient. It’s when I cared for a brain dead 45-year-old mother of two being kept alive for organ harvesting while the eleven-year-old daughter was at the bedside. Being therapeutic means meeting my patients at their point of need, which calls for both sensitivity and resiliency.”
This can be emotionally draining and may mean you have to work with people at their most vulnerable and upset. It’s important for nurses to be resilient enough to work in a wide variety of situations and still be there for their patients. If you are compassionate and resilient, nursing is likely to be a fantastic and incredibly rewarding career for you.
3. The Pros and Cons of Shift Work
The demand for nursing never stops, so the reality of life for most nurses includes shift work and some unsociable hours. A regular nursing shift pattern involves three days working 12-hour shifts, followed by four days off. 12-hour shifts let nurses become involved in and familiar with their patients’ care plans and lessen the number of changes of staff. Meaning more consistency for those under their care.
Taking four days off following three days of shifts allows nurses to rest and relax, giving time to keep themselves in top condition to provide quality care for their patients. The three on, four off pattern of working also allows nurses time to spend with their family or pursue their hobbies.
In order to handle shift work and make the most of the potential benefits for your lifestyle it’s important to get the best sleep you can. Some helpful tips to achieve this include:
Block out light from your bedroom with window coverings or blackout blinds
Turn your phone off when trying to sleep
Invest in a good quality, comfortable, and supportive mattress and pillow
Ask for support from friends and family by being considerate of your sleeping pattern
Nurse Beth says that it is important to find a pattern that works for you, while pulling your weight as part of a team. “While less desirable shifts have to be shared fairly, I advocate for nurses finding the right fit for themselves, and managers working with their staff to help them do the same. Some nurses simply cannot tolerate night shift. Others thrive. When you find the right place for you, your performance is at its best.”
4. Keep Active
Being a nurse will definitely help you keep on your feet and remain active. A common part of the job is spending a lot of your time walking, doing rounds, and helping patients. A study from 2006 found that nurses walk an average of between four and five miles in the course of a 12-hour shift.
A good level of fitness is a great benefit to potential nurses. It’ll help you stay focused and energetic while getting your job done. It’s also worth taking care of your body and investing in shoes and clothing that will support your body and stave off fatigue. Supportive clogs and trainers can help prevent weary feet. If you make the choice to pursue nursing, try changing your shoes half-way through your shift. This way you’ll have the benefit of uncompressed support round the clock.
5. There’s a Balance Between Science and Service
A career in nursing means undertaking the dual roles of providing excellent service and care to all patients and visitors, while also taking a scientific approach to monitoring their condition and analyzing their progress. This can be a fine line to walk and it’s okay to be stronger in one area than the other. But it is important that you’re happy and able to work in both of these areas.
The balance you’d have to strike between science and service in your career as a nurse varies depending on the type of nursing work you choose. Certified nursing Assistants (CNAs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) tend to work either under Registered Nurses (RNs) or in care homes or home health facilities. These roles are often more weighted towards service, with some routine medical monitoring.
Specialized nursing roles like Nurse Practitioner, however, may require more extensive scientific skills and understanding. This position requires classification, treatment, and management of chronic diseases, interpretation of diagnostic tests, and performance of a wide range of procedures. It’s important to take into account where you want your balance to be between science and service when you’re planning your nursing career.
There is pleasure to be taken from both sides of the role, as Nurse Beth has found throughout here career. “I apply my expertise to each patient while being cognizant of their comfort and needs. I know how to start an IV with the least amount of pain while paying attention to their unspoken fears and anxiety. Sometimes I can administer subcutaneous insulin and they don’t even know it was given.
“I am as gratified brewing a cup of fresh coffee for my post-angiogram patient who was NPO for twelve hours as I am in recognizing when he shows early signs of a retroperitoneal bleed.
“Patients often don’t know my expertise because my critical thinking skills are always working on their behalf but behind the scenes. Even when they think we are just talking I’m critically assessing them. And in the words of Maya Angelou, they do know how I made them feel.”
To learn more about the different roles and responsibilities of nurse roles, take a look at our information on types of nurses.
6. On-Going Education is Important
One of the huge benefits of a career in nursing is the opportunities it offers for development and progress. There are so many ways for you to shape your career, whether it’s through diving into a specialism, like oncology, or striving for a senior role like Nurse Practitioner.
Nurse Beth has made a career out of advocating for nursing professional development, becoming a Nursing Professional Development Specialist. She believes that life-long learning is what will take nursing professionals to the next level. In her work, mentoring has been a big part of what can drive professional development, whether this is in a formal or informal setting.
To really get the most of all the incredible opportunities open to you on this career path, you need to be committed to on-going education. As a nurse, you’ll find opportunities for learning all around you every day. In addition to this, you should also pursue other opportunities to develop your skills. This could be reading academic articles, attending seminars and workshops, or undertaking new certificates and qualifications.
To keep up to date with qualifications and courses that will help your career in nursing, sign up to our newsletter.
If these sound like qualities you possess, then a career in nursing could be the perfect path for you. Although nursing can be challenging, those in the profession are overwhelmingly happy with their choice. 83% of those surveyed by AMN Healthcare’s 2017 Survey of Registered Nurses said they were satisfied with their choice of career.
Being a nurse is one of the most fulfilling jobs in the world. It allows you to make a real, tangible difference in people’s lives and offer them support when they need it most.
It also offers fantastic stability, benefits, and advancement opportunities, so you can support you and your family. If you think you’re suited to a career in nursing and want to get started, sign up for our newsletter written by experts from American Nurses Associations (ANA), to get expert help on taking the next steps.
ANA Urges US Department of Health and Human Services to Declare Nurse Staffing Shortage a National Crisis
This press release was originally published Sep 1, 2021 by the ANA. For more information visit their website.
SILVER SPRING, MD – The American Nurses Association (ANA), representing the interests of the nation’s 4.2 million nurses, urges the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to declare the current and unsustainable nurse staffing shortage facing our country a national crisis. In a letter to HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, ANA calls for the Administration to acknowledge and take concrete action to address the current crisis-level nurse staffing shortage that puts nurses’ ability to care for patients in jeopardy.
“The nation’s health care delivery systems are overwhelmed, and nurses are tired and frustrated as this persistent pandemic rages on with no end in sight. Nurses alone cannot solve this longstanding issue and it is not our burden to carry,” said ANA President Ernest Grant, PhD, RN, FAAN. “If we truly value the immeasurable contributions of the nursing workforce, then it is imperative that HHS utilize all available authorities to address this issue.”
ANA calls on the Administration to deploy these policy solutions to address the dire nurse staffing shortage crisis. HHS must:
Convene stakeholders to identify short- and long-term solutions to staffing challenges to face the demand of the COVID-19 pandemic response, ensure the nation’s health care delivery system is best equipped to provide quality care for patients, and prepared for the future challenges.
Work with the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) on methodologies and approaches to promote payment equity for nursing services and remove unnecessary regulatory barriers to APRN practice.
Educate the nation on the importance of the COVID-19 vaccine to provide resources for widespread administration of the COVID-19 vaccine and any subsequent boosters.
Sustain a nursing workforce that meets current and future staffing demands to ensure access to care for patients and prioritize the mental health of nurses and other health professionals.
Provide additional resources including recruitment and retention incentives that will attract students to the nursing profession and retain skilled nurses to the demands of patient care.
“ANA stands ready to work with HHS and other stakeholders on a whole of government approach to ensure we have a strong nursing workforce today and in the future,” said Dr. Grant. “Our nation must have a robust nursing workforce at peak health and wellness to administer COVID-19 vaccines, educate communities, and provide safe patient care for millions of Americans. We cannot be a healthy nation until we commit to address underlying, chronic nursing workforce challenges that have persisted for decades.”
# # #
The American Nurses Association (ANA) is the premier organization representing the interests of the nation’s 4.3 million registered nurses. ANA advances the profession by fostering high standards of nursing practice, promoting a safe and ethical work environment, bolstering the health and wellness of nurses, and advocating on health care issues that affect nurses and the public. ANA is at the forefront of improving the quality of health care for all. For more information, visitwww.nursingworld.org.
Why Should You Earn a BSN? It May Soon Be a Requirement
This isn’t a demand or a law, but it’s informed speculation based on research showing that a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is important for the nursing profession. If you are thinking about becoming a nurse, it is probably a good plan to start with a BSN or have a clear path to get your RN to BSN or ADN to BSN. Nurses with a BSN, or another higher degree, are considered more valuable and sought after than nurses with a diploma or an associate’s degree.
What Is the Difference Between BSN and ADN Nurses?
The associate’s degree requires two years of study compared with a baccalaureate program which typically takes four years to finish. The Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) will provide the foundation needed to take the NCLEX and will allow you to become a registered nurse (RN). However, the ADN nurse does not have nearly the same depth or intensity of coursework as the BSN nurse. From communication to in-depth psychology courses, there are many requirements covered by the BSN that do not fit into the ADN course schedule.
One of the biggest differences between the BSN and ADN degrees are the clinical requirements. BSN-prepared nurses have to complete clinicals that require them to work out their education in real-life settings with the oversight of a professor. These intensive settings are one example of how a BSN program can better prepare nurses with increased field experience.
Most hospitals acknowledge this difference by offering higher pay to RNs with a BSN. While an entry-level ADN nurse will make around $40,000 each year, a BSN nurse starts at over $70,000 on average. Both start as entry-level roles in hospitals and other healthcare settings but, as they move up, BSN nurses become the top 25% highest earners in their field, averaging around $82,000. As hospitals clearly demonstrate with their pay scales, there is a big difference between the ADN RN and the BSN RN in terms of the level of education and skillsets.
Why Is a BSN Important?
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) expects BSN nurses to be educated on topics including communication, community education, patient education, nurse management, clinicals, leadership, patient psychology, and more. These differences have led to better patient outcomes and lower mortality rates.
The University of West Florida has published studies showing a clear relationship between higher education and better nursing practices. Lower mortality rates, fewer failure-to-rescues, and fewer post-surgery complications were seen in hospitals with higher percentages of BSN-prepared nurses. A decrease in stay times and patient deaths was also clearly linked to the increase of BSN nurses on the hospital staff. A study from the University of Michigan even reported that as many as 10.9% fewer deaths occurred with just a 10% increase in the proportion of BSN-prepared nurses on the floor.
Studies showing these outcomes have led to a push for increasing the number of BSN-prepared nurses to 80% in hospitals. And hospitals continue to recognize the importance of nurses who are better prepared to communicate with patients and have the experience to deal with an onslaught of cases.
Will a BSN Be Mandatory for the Nursing Profession?
Since 1964, there has been a push to require a BSN for all nurses in healthcare settings. This isn’t a change that will happen overnight but the medical field is currently facing a shortage of qualified nurses. This is projected to become an even greater gap in the workforce, with the National Nursing Workforce Survey reporting that nurses over 50 make up half of the current RNs in the United States.
Over 10 years ago, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) wrote a Future of Nursing Report that highlighted eight areas where nurses could improve US health care. One of the goals was to increase the number of nurses hired with BSN degrees. According to the report, nurses that finished baccalaureate training were better equipped to handle the increasing complexity in the nursing field.
In California, nursing graduates with a BSN increased from 54% to 60% in seven years (from 2010 to 2017). This was largely due to universities working directly with community colleges to create seamless ADN to BSN programs.
The “BSN in 10” Law
Some states, specifically New York, have adopted laws requiring nurses to continue their education past an ADN. The law gives nurses 10 years to obtain a BSN after becoming an RN. This controversial bill from 2017 states:
“The legislature finds that expanding the educational requirements for the profession of nursing, while maintaining the multiple entry points into the profession, is needed. (…) This proposal is the result of a growing body of research evidence that additional education results in better patient outcomes. Therefore by requiring the baccalaureate degree for continued registration as a registered professional nurse, this legislation seeks to be responsive to meet the increasingly complex health care needs of the residents of New York state.”
While this law only impacts New York nurses, it could be considered a test for other states. It follows the example of other countries that already require higher education degrees, like a baccalaureate, to enter the nursing profession. This law only impacts nurses who have not started their studies since it was adopted, grandfathering in those who already joined the profession.
“This legislation affects future nurses graduating from an associate’s degree or diploma nursing program who would be required to obtain a baccalaureate in nursing within ten years of initial licensure. (…) All current nurses licensed in New York and students in programs preparing for registered professional nursing are to be exempt from the new requirement.”
Is an Associate’s Degree in Nursing Worthwhile?
There are a lot of students looking for online nursing courses because they need to study at night or can’t afford four years of tuition. The ADN currently helps students get into the field and start working faster. So, in many cases, an associate’s degree can be the best option. However, most nurses should plan to further their education. RN to BSN courses allow working nurses to get their baccalaureate degree while they earn money as an RN. Some hospitals or healthcare centers will even pay for their employees to obtain higher degrees.
If you are able to get your BSN, a lot of statistics and nursing history will tell you that’s the best way to go. Even though it isn’t currently a requirement to start working as a nurse in most states, the future is strongly leaning towards an expectation for nurses to have a bachelor’s degree. It is even possible that a BSN will become a requirement within the next year.
Not only will having a BSN put you in a better position to get a job as a highly qualified RN, but it can also give you great career options. Getting your BSN and then advancing to a master’s or even a doctorate in nursing (DNP) can open doors for all kinds of career moves within the field.
Content shared from #EveryNurse
Sumner College now offers a 100% Online RN to BSN program. Learn more
This isn’t a demand or a law, but it’s informed speculation based on research showing that a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is important for the nursing profession. If you are thinking about becoming a nurse, it is probably a good plan to start with a BSN or have a clear path to get your RN to BSN or ADN to BSN. Nurses with a BSN, or another higher degree, are considered more valuable and sought after than nurses with a diploma or an associate’s degree.
What Is the Difference Between BSN and ADN Nurses?
The associate’s degree requires two years of study compared with a baccalaureate program which typically takes four years to finish. The Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) will provide the foundation needed to take the NCLEX and will allow you to become a registered nurse (RN). However, the ADN nurse does not have nearly the same depth or intensity of coursework as the BSN nurse. From communication to in-depth psychology courses, there are many requirements covered by the BSN that do not fit into the ADN course schedule.
One of the biggest differences between the BSN and ADN degrees are the clinical requirements. BSN-prepared nurses have to complete clinicals that require them to work out their education in real-life settings with the oversight of a professor. These intensive settings are one example of how a BSN program can better prepare nurses with increased field experience.
Most hospitals acknowledge this difference by offering higher pay to RNs with a BSN. While an entry-level ADN nurse will make around $40,000 each year, a BSN nurse starts at over $70,000 on average. Both start as entry-level roles in hospitals and other healthcare settings but, as they move up, BSN nurses become the top 25% highest earners in their field, averaging around $82,000. As hospitals clearly demonstrate with their pay scales, there is a big difference between the ADN RN and the BSN RN in terms of the level of education and skillsets.
Why Is a BSN Important?
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) expects BSN nurses to be educated on topics including communication, community education, patient education, nurse management, clinicals, leadership, patient psychology, and more. These differences have led to better patient outcomes and lower mortality rates.
The University of West Florida has published studies showing a clear relationship between higher education and better nursing practices. Lower mortality rates, fewer failure-to-rescues, and fewer post-surgery complications were seen in hospitals with higher percentages of BSN-prepared nurses. A decrease in stay times and patient deaths was also clearly linked to the increase of BSN nurses on the hospital staff. A study from the University of Michigan even reported that as many as 10.9% fewer deaths occurred with just a 10% increase in the proportion of BSN-prepared nurses on the floor.
Studies showing these outcomes have led to a push for increasing the number of BSN-prepared nurses to 80% in hospitals. And hospitals continue to recognize the importance of nurses who are better prepared to communicate with patients and have the experience to deal with an onslaught of cases.
Will a BSN Be Mandatory for the Nursing Profession?
Since 1964, there has been a push to require a BSN for all nurses in healthcare settings. This isn’t a change that will happen overnight but the medical field is currently facing a shortage of qualified nurses. This is projected to become an even greater gap in the workforce, with the National Nursing Workforce Survey reporting that nurses over 50 make up half of the current RNs in the United States.
Over 10 years ago, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) wrote a Future of Nursing Report that highlighted eight areas where nurses could improve US health care. One of the goals was to increase the number of nurses hired with BSN degrees. According to the report, nurses that finished baccalaureate training were better equipped to handle the increasing complexity in the nursing field.
In California, nursing graduates with a BSN increased from 54% to 60% in seven years (from 2010 to 2017). This was largely due to universities working directly with community colleges to create seamless ADN to BSN programs.
The “BSN in 10” Law
Some states, specifically New York, have adopted laws requiring nurses to continue their education past an ADN. The law gives nurses 10 years to obtain a BSN after becoming an RN. This controversial bill from 2017 states:
“The legislature finds that expanding the educational requirements for the profession of nursing, while maintaining the multiple entry points into the profession, is needed. (…) This proposal is the result of a growing body of research evidence that additional education results in better patient outcomes. Therefore by requiring the baccalaureate degree for continued registration as a registered professional nurse, this legislation seeks to be responsive to meet the increasingly complex health care needs of the residents of New York state.”
While this law only impacts New York nurses, it could be considered a test for other states. It follows the example of other countries that already require higher education degrees, like a baccalaureate, to enter the nursing profession. This law only impacts nurses who have not started their studies since it was adopted, grandfathering in those who already joined the profession.
“This legislation affects future nurses graduating from an associate’s degree or diploma nursing program who would be required to obtain a baccalaureate in nursing within ten years of initial licensure. (…) All current nurses licensed in New York and students in programs preparing for registered professional nursing are to be exempt from the new requirement.”
Is an Associate’s Degree in Nursing Worthwhile?
There are a lot of students looking for online nursing courses because they need to study at night or can’t afford four years of tuition. The ADN currently helps students get into the field and start working faster. So, in many cases, an associate’s degree can be the best option. However, most nurses should plan to further their education. RN to BSN courses allow working nurses to get their baccalaureate degree while they earn money as an RN. Some hospitals or healthcare centers will even pay for their employees to obtain higher degrees.
If you are able to get your BSN, a lot of statistics and nursing history will tell you that’s the best way to go. Even though it isn’t currently a requirement to start working as a nurse in most states, the future is strongly leaning towards an expectation for nurses to have a bachelor’s degree. It is even possible that a BSN will become a requirement within the next year.
Not only will having a BSN put you in a better position to get a job as a highly qualified RN, but it can also give you great career options. Getting your BSN and then advancing to a master’s or even a doctorate in nursing (DNP) can open doors for all kinds of career moves within the field.
Content shared from #EveryNurse
Sumner College now offers a 100% Online RN to BSN program. Learn more
On the fence or have questions about starting your education at Sumner College? Check out our upcoming BSN Info Sessions! Available for on-campus in Portland…
Nursing school is known to be extremely difficult, but there are ways to make it easier on yourself! NursingWorld.org suggests a few different things to…
We are extremely excited to announce the opening of our new additional campus location in Bend, Oregon! Conveniently located just around the corner from Bend's…
Sumner College is proud to offer multiple different nursing programs, suitable for all stages of life. However, completing the Bachelors of Science in Nursing is…
In preparation for the September classes, please plan to attend either of these informative hour long presentations to learn more about the program, the requirements…
Applying for a new job can be overwhelming and stressful. For candidates with disabilities, the hiring process can be a disheartening experience. According to the CDC,…
Our Career Services Department has a number of great resources for students, including study tips for nursing school. Visit Career Services Study Tips …
Upcoming Info Sessions
On the fence or have questions about starting your education at Sumner College? Check out our upcoming BSN Info Sessions! Available for on-campus in Portland…
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All About TEAS
If you're considering enrolling at Sumner College (or other nursing schools!) you will be required to take the TEAS Exam. This stands for Test of…
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Nursing School Study Tips
Nursing school is known to be extremely difficult, but there are ways to make it easier on yourself! NursingWorld.org suggests a few different things to…
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$5,000 Education Award Available!
Exciting news! DiversityNursing.com is offering a $5,000 education award, with easy entry and no essays, why not enter for a chance to win $5,000 to…
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New Member Bend Chamber of Commerce
Sumner College is proud to share we are new members of the Bend Area Chamber of Commerce. Coming soon our official ribbon cutting and social…
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Spirit Week!
Happy Spirit Week! Stop by the Lobby or Front Desk throughout the week to say hi and show some school spirit! Monday: Meal Prep and…
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SUMNER COLLEGE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: JULY 2024
Congratulations Kinsey, for being the July 2024 Student of the Month at Sumner! Kinsey is pursuing her BSN degree and has wanted to be a…
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Virtual Tour: SIM Lab 202
Welcome to Sumner College! Before you head in to our Portland Campus take a virtual tour where you can see our Simulation Lab, Hospital Simulator,…
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SUMNER COLLEGE STUDENT OF THE MONTH: JUNE 2024
Congratulations to LPN student, Logan, for June 2024! Logan is able to pursue his degree thanks to his great support system, and school life balance,…
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New Campus Alert!
We are extremely excited to announce the opening of our new additional campus location in Bend, Oregon! Conveniently located just around the corner from Bend's…
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The Heart of Healthcare
Nursing can be described as both an art and science; a heart and a mind. At its heart, lies a fundamental respect for human dignity…
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Labor Day Weekend
Happy Labor Day! We will be closed Monday to enjoy a long weekend!…
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Upcoming Class Start Dates
Join us on one of our upcoming start dates for RN's looking to achieve a BSN completion!…
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What is an RN-BSN Program?
RN to BSN Degree- What is it? The RN-BSN degree is designed for nurses that earned their Registered Nurse licensure and would like to continue…
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There’s Still Time!
There's still time to enroll for the September 3 class start date! All three programs are starting fresh this fall; BSN, RN to BSN, and…
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Tips for Great Admission Essays
Writing an admission essay may feel like a daunting task to accomplish, much less three, as we require here at Sumner. While they are short…
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Is Nursing for Me?
Have you ever wondered whether nursing is the right profession for you? Take our personality exam to see if you have the characteristics of a…
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Join the Nursing Workforce
When deciding what career to go into, one often will research the career to find out information like: average income, durability in the economy, and…
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Celebrating 50 years!! Everyday NW’s Ally Osborne visits with Joanna Russell
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Sumner College in Northeast Portland is celebrating 50 years of helping people level up and reach for their career goals in…
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Why choose to complete a BSN?
Sumner College is proud to offer multiple different nursing programs, suitable for all stages of life. However, completing the Bachelors of Science in Nursing is…
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Our Application Process
As you find yourself getting ready to make the jump for the new term here at Sumner College, you may have questions about our application…
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BSN Info Sessions – August
This month's BSN group information meetings are scheduled for August 1, 6, 8, 15 at 12p.m on campus, 8338 NE Alderwood Road, Portland, OR 97220…
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BSN Info Sessions – July
In preparation for the September classes, please plan to attend either of these informative hour long presentations to learn more about the program, the requirements…
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Meet The RN Advocating For Disabled Candidates
Applying for a new job can be overwhelming and stressful. For candidates with disabilities, the hiring process can be a disheartening experience. According to the CDC,…
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NCLEX Study Strategies
Expert Test-Taking Strategies One of the first things you should do when you begin preparing for the NCLEX is to determine your learning style to…
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Sumner College: an excellent choice for those wishing to pursue a career in the health care field
In a message from our College President, Joanna S. Russell, she touches on how one of the strengths Sumner has is student engagement; focussing on…
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Nursing Specialty Quiz
Unsure of what nursing specialty suits you best? Take this quiz to see what options align with you best! Content shared from J&J Nursing …
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Happy 4th of July! Office is closed
Sumner college is celebrating our nation's independence! Our offices will be closed Thursday 7/4 and Friday 7/5.…
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BSN Info Sessions – Register for July
We've opened up a few more seats to the BSN Info Sessions in July. In preparation for the September classes, please plan to attend this…
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Nursing School Study Tips
Our Career Services Department has a number of great resources for students, including study tips for nursing school. Visit Career Services Study Tips …
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