NR 500 Discussion Topic Week 1, The Value of a Master’s – Prepared Nurse (Two Versions)

Consider the current healthcare delivery models and practice settings. Reflect on how nursing practice is transforming in response to the current demands of the healthcare system and answer one of the following questions: 1. What differentiates the practice of a master's-prepared nurse compared to that of a baccalaureate-prepared nurse? 2. What is the value of a master's degree in nursing? 3. What do you consider to be the most essential professional competency for a master's- prepared nurse practicing in the 21st century? Refer to AACN Essentials, Chamberlain University Nursing Conceptual Framework and other scholarly sources. Use at least one outside scholarly article to support your position. Provide an example to illustrate an application to professional practice. Dr. Myers and fellow classmates, The practice of a master’s-prepared nurse varies from that of a baccalaureate-prepared nurse. One of the biggest differences detailed by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (2011) was that nurses with master’s degrees have a deeper understanding of nursing practices, pedagogical skills, and of the discipline needed to be successful. Through this understanding, nurses can use knowledge gained in both the baccalaureate and master’s program to care for, diagnose, and educate their patients. It is also important to note that a master’s-prepared nurse has opportunities to teach and continue their education to obtain a doctorate degree. A master’s degree in nursing is very valuable. According to Clark, Casey, and Morris (2015), nurses who continue their education have more effective leadership skills, more self-esteem and confidence, and better overall attitudes. With a shortage of healthcare providers, those pursuing the title of Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) will help to ensure that there are enough providers to treat the aging population. Using APRNs result in lower healthcare costs and studies have discovered that care provided by physicians and nurse practitioners result in comparable favorable health outcomes (Rantz, Birtley, Flesner, Crecelius, & Murray, 2017). Using APRNs to provide quality, lower cost care makes them a valuable part of the medical community.