Associate Degree in Nursing versus Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing
Grand Canyon University: NRS 430V
May 1, 2011

There are two major educational pathways to become a Registered Nurse (RN): an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Nursing (BSN). Typically, an ADN degree takes 2 years to complete while a BSN degree takes 4 years to complete. Both allow the nursing graduate to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) consequently allowing the graduate to enter the field of nursing as a Registered Nurse. It is important to discuss and understand the differences in educational preparation as well as resulting competencies for both degrees. Prospective nursing professionals are …show more content…

As we have seen, studies show that nursing education level plays a factor in patient safety, quality of care, better patient outcome and lower mortality rate (Rosseter, 2005). This validates that nurses with BSN degrees possess greater critical thinking skills, better problem solving skills and advanced clinical judgment skills; three skills of extreme value for the upsurge in acuity of patients in hospitals and other health care settings. Consequently, AACN (2005) is promoting BSN degrees for entry into professional nursing practice to create a highly educated nursing workforce due to the complexities amongst our patient population.
As stated above, differences between ADN degree and BSN degree are relevant in patient care and consequently have an impact in outcome. It is safe to say that an ADN degree will equip the nurse with the fundamental set of skills necessary to provide adequate patient care. The emphasis of patient care for an ADN nurse centers on interventions and goals necessary for recovery while in the acute care setting. On the other hand, BSN degrees prepare nurses more effectively by providing a better understanding of theory and evidence-based practice, all of which translate to better patient care and outcome. It is important to note the emphasis BSN degrees place on community health and how this plays a significant role in bedside patient care. The application of this degree in patient care is evident in the plan of care since it