NUR 500 Discussion Drafts-Chamberlain College Of Nursing.

NUR 500 Discussion Drafts-Chamberlain College Of Nursing. 1. What differentiates the practice of a master's-prepared nurse compared to that of a baccalaureate-prepared nurse? The practice of a mastered prepared nurse can be differentiated to that of a baccalaureate prepared nurse on many distinctive measures. Notable areas include that of duration, focus and specializations. Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree program typically lasts four years in duration, although accelerated programs are often available, based on previous education and experience. These programs feature flexible course schedules to assist working nurses in continuing their education without interrupting their existing careers. (American Association of Colleges of Nursing – Advancing Higher Education in Nursing) BSN degree programs are designed to provide a broad base of knowledge and experience for entry-level nursing positions and to position graduates to move on to advanced studies. Covering all of the coursework typically found in associate’s degree programs, it also includes in-depth physical science, and social sciences courses, as well as courses in research, nursing management, the humanities and public health usually taken as electives. A focus on critical thinking and professional development provides students with the ability to make informed decisions about patient care, as well as to serve as integral members of an interdisciplinary care team with physicians, masters-level therapists and other highly educated colleagues. (Nursing Education: past, present, future – Jones & Bartlett Learning) The master’s degree programs on the other hand are typically two years in duration and open to holders of BSN degrees. Some MSN programs will also offer entry to students with healthrelated bachelor’s degrees. It is also possible to enter MSN programs that accept all bachelor’s degree holders. Participants first cover basic nursing curriculum and become licensed RNs, and then proceed to earn a master’s degree, which typically takes three years. (Developing the discipline of Nursing - Jones & Bartlett Learning) MSN programs focus on a particular area, such as nursing administration, clinical nurse leader, nurse practitioner or clinical nurse educator. Coursework includes advanced nursing theory, research, management issues, nursing informatics, social and physical sciences and clinical practice. (American Association of Colleges of Nursing – Advancing Higher Education in Nursing) 2. What is the value of a master's degree in nursing? Graduates with a master’s degree in nursing are prepared for a variety of roles and areas of practice, they may pursue new and innovative roles that result from health reform and changes in an evolving and global healthcare system. Some graduates will pursue direct care practice roles in a variety of settings (e.g., the Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL), nurse educator). Others may choose indirect care roles or areas of practice with an aggregate, systems, or organizational focus, (e.g. nursing or health program management, informatics, public health, or clinical research coordinator). The degree prepares nurses for flexible leadership and critical action within complex, changing systems, including health, educational and organizational systems. The degree equips nurses with valuable knowledge and skills to lead change, promote health and elevate care in various roles and settings (Initiative for the future of Nursing IOM 2010). The master’s degree prepares nurses who can address the gaps resulting from growing health care needs in a time when preparation for specialty advanced nursing practice is transitioning to a higher level.