Associate & Baccalaureate Degree Level in Nursing

Associates Degree Level Versus Baccalaureate Degree Level

The educational preparation of a nurse varies in accordance with the selected level. The key difference between Associates Degree Level (ADN) and Baccalaureate Degree Level (BDN) is that the first one provides the potential nurses with the basic knowledge and skills related to health care provision, while the second is considered to prepare professionals, applying critical thinking, continuous development, and the evidence-based practice. Let us consider each of these levels in detail.

An ADN competency primarily focuses on the comprehensive evaluation of patients including physical, psychological, cultural, and spiritual aspects. Before the assessment, ADNs collect the required information and accurately interpret it (OLynn, 2013). The subsequent identification of available resource of a patient goes in line with the determination of his or her expectations. At this point, effective communication is an integral part of health care delivery provided by ADNs. OLynn (2013) states that communication with patients requires patience and tact and thus contributes to a more rapid recovery of patients.

It goes without saying that a nurse is required to accurately perform all the prescriptions. Developing trustful and appropriate relationships with patients, they are to ensure comfortable atmosphere so that it will be possible to specify the required nursing interventions. In particular, the latter traditionally involve nurturing and other types of the patient-oriented care (Feldman, Alexander, & Greenberg, 2011). Among other competencies of ADNs, there is a collaboration with other professionals that is necessary in case a patient needs an in-depth examination or other information. In general, this nursing level is associated with the implementation of knowledge and skills in practice.

BDNs are professionals with the baccalaureate degree who focus on a holistic care based on Christian faith. Taking into a human diversity, they consider that all people are to be treated equally as children of God (Grand Canyon University College of Nursing and Health Care Professions Philosophy, 2016). Such a treatment of patients provides them with valuable hope and meaningfulness. BDN degree implies, first of all, critical thinking that is of great importance in nowadays ever-changing environment. Besides, assessment, communication, care, and leadership can be regarded as the important competencies of BDNs. Being the experts in their field of operation, they are expected to embody such fundamental human features as dignity, social justice, and honesty (Grand Canyon University College of Nursing and Health Care Professions Philosophy, 2016). BDN degree is considered to be a theory-driven, thus requiring a lifelong development of knowledge and skills as well as the evidence-based approach to nursing practices.

It is also significant to note that leading and teaching are integrated into BDNs competencies. Feldman et al. (2011) claim that while studying at the University, they learn to think critically and develop leadership skills. Another advantageous point of a bachelors degree that helps them to work on administrative positions is that students get more practice working outside, namely, at hospitals. Furthermore, BDNs conduct various researches to remain competitive in their profession and teach others so that the overall work of the medical institution this particular nurse works at will be relevant to the modern requirements. The publications and research techniques provide BDNs with the additional evidence-based data that is essential to guarantee the most appropriate heath care delivery.

Patient Care Situation

Speaking of the decision-making process, it is essential to emphasize that ADNs apply a clinical decision-making, resulting in the accurate evaluation and positive health outcomes. In their turn, BDNs employ both clinical decision-making and evidence-based practice outcomes. For example, in case when a patient with bedsores requires a range of the nursing interventions, an ADN and a BDN are likely to act in a different manner. An ADN will concentrate on bedside care, ensuring physical comfort of a patient. In particular, such procedures as nurturing, linen change, and adequate physical exercises will be initiated. Following the competencies that were identified above, a BDN will, first of all, communicate with a patient, revealing his or her attitudes and perceptions of care quality, self-identification, and any concerns.

This nurse will apply holistic and Christian care principles to provide the most effective care expected by a certain patient. Some of them may require more close relationships, while others can be too introverted to discuss personal issues with a nurse. In case it is a dying patient, a BDN will adhere to the principles of compassionate care by paying more attention to his or her concerns and expectations (Grand Canyon University College of Nursing and Health Care Professions Philosophy, 2016). Perhaps, a BDN will contact and communicate with a patients family in order to encourage them to be more responsive with their relative or educate them how to react to this complicated situation. Thus, the main difference between associates degree nurse and baccalaureate degree nurse is the profoundness of care that is expected from them. ADNs are prepared to work mostly in a hospital environment, while care practices applied by BDNs are more comprehensive and consider a patient as an integral person, both from physical and psychological viewpoints.