Before designating the differences between the baccalaureate degree prepared nurse and associate degree prepared nurses it is important to examine their similarities. Both ADN and BSN nurses take the same licensure exam, the National Council Licensure EXamination, and both receive the same license upon passing the licensure exam. Adding to that both must go through rigorous training prior to providing patient care. The BSN and ADN nurse both assist in determining the health status and needs of clients (Arlington, 2003). Nonetheless though there are similarities there are also many differences. Baccalaureate nurses receive more education. On top of the typical nursing school course work, BSN students must also take courses in theory, community health, research, and management. This additional education has proven to provide baccalaureate prepared nurses with increased critical thinking skills, lower mortality rates, and greater leadership skills. On the other hand, ADN programs “...consist of a balance between general education and clinical nursing courses” (Creasia, 2011). Associate degree nurses enter the workforce prepared for technical and secondary care settings. Given the differences and
Before designating the differences between the baccalaureate degree prepared nurse and associate degree prepared nurses it is important to examine their similarities. Both ADN and BSN nurses take the same licensure exam, the National Council Licensure EXamination, and both receive the same license upon passing the licensure exam. Adding to that both must go through rigorous training prior to providing patient care. The BSN and ADN nurse both assist in determining the health status and needs of clients (Arlington, 2003). Nonetheless though there are similarities there are also many differences. Baccalaureate nurses receive more education. On top of the typical nursing school course work, BSN students must also take courses in theory, community health, research, and management. This additional education has proven to provide baccalaureate prepared nurses with increased critical thinking skills, lower mortality rates, and greater leadership skills. On the other hand, ADN programs “...consist of a balance between general education and clinical nursing courses” (Creasia, 2011). Associate degree nurses enter the workforce prepared for technical and secondary care settings. Given the differences and