Main Responsibilities in the Nursing Profession - Essay Example

In 2008, the National Survey of Registered Nurses conducted research and found out that over 3 million nurses were registered. There are only 2.6 million nurses who have been employed out of the 3 million registered nurses. Out of these 2.6 million which is an equivalent of 84%, 50.0% are nurses prepared from Baccalaureate programs, 36.1% from Associate Degree programs while 13.9% were from Diploma Nursing Programs. The NCLEX-RN licensing examination is taken by those who are to be recognized as certified nurses.

Robert Wood Johnson Foundation made a proposal in a report. This report on The Future of Nursing suggested that 50.0% of BSN should be increased to 80%. Many types of research have also been conducted, and the findings reported that BSN in most care centres has realized a reduced rate of mortality deaths. American Organization of Nurse Executives called for all nurses to undergo the Baccalaureate programs. This program is to make them competent enough to handle the challenging task ahead of their careers. The U.S Army requires nurses that are competent specifically with a degree in baccalaureate nursing so that these nurses can be given the position of a commissioned nurse.

A study was conducted showing that a large number of people preferred nurses who were trained for the duration of four years and over. It is only fair that the life of a patient is entrusted on a competent nurse. This paper will explore the difference in competencies that are notable between associate-degree nurses and nurses who have been prepared at the Baccalaureate-degree level in nursing. Baccalaureate nursing program is inclusive of all the course work that is taught in diploma and associate degree level.

The four-year training they go through is seen in the care they extend to patients. Baccalaureate nurses are taught on theoretical and practical aspects. These theories incorporate the various fields outside medicine. Nursing knowledge includes theories in humanities, sciences, as well as, Biblical concepts.