ANSWERS: 1
  • The healthcare field is constantly in need of additional nurses, so the decision to further your medical career from a licensed practicing nurse to a registered nurse is a choice that is very much in demand. Registered nurses are granted more responsibility and are the mainstay and building blocks of many medical facilities. R.N.'s also have the added benefit of a higher rate of earnings.

    Educational Degrees

    An R.N. can practice with either an associate or bachelor's degree. Current RNs argue that there is no difference between the two, which is correct when referring to skill level. However, those that have worked toward their bachelor of science in nursing say it is geared more toward administration and management. The associate degree in nursing takes two years to complete and is generally offered at community or junior colleges. The bachelor of science in nursing, is usually offered at major universities and is a four-year program. There are also accelerated transitioning programs that are more rigorous and fast-paced than their counterparts. Earning an ADN takes a year instead of the normal two, and a BSN takes two years rather than the usual four.

    Online or Offline?

    Many people find their lives to be hectic when they already work in a medical setting, which is why an online program may be ideal for an LPN who want to obtain RN certification. Online programs allow an LPN to work at her own pace. Of course, if you need real-time instruction and have a more flexible schedule, an offline transitioning program may be better.

    Exams

    Once all coursework has been completed, there is yet another challenge: the National Council Licensure Examination. This exam tests the skills, abilities and overall knowledge of entry-level nurses. This must be passed in order to practice in a given state or territory. On Dec. 10, 2009, the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Inc. raised the minimum passing standard. The Board of Directors said the profession had advanced so that "entry-level RN practice requires a greater level of knowledge, skills, and abilities than was required in 2007."

    Source:

    USA Today: CDC: Americans go to the doctor or hospital a lot

    Guidetohealthcareschools: Bachelor's in Nursing

    Allnurses.com: Associate vs. Baccalaureate degrees in Nursing

    More Information:

    National Council of State Boards of Nursing

    LPN Programs

    Degree Directory

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