Educational Preparation: The Influence on Patient Outcomes Cheryl M Weems
Grand Canyon University: NRS-430V
June 27, 2015

Educational Preparation: Influence on Patient Outcomes New graduates from all nursing programs, regardless of degree obtained, take the same exam to be licensed. The question is, do they give the same standard of care? “The NCLEX test for minimal technical competency for safe entry into basic nursing practice” (“Fact sheet: creating a more highly qualified” 2015), but what other factors influence quality of care? How does the education level effect what decisions that are made regarding the patient? Long term nurses use their years of experience in their decision making process. New graduates, however do not have this wealth of knowledge to fall back on, they only have what they learned in school. Both learn basic skills and how to formulate a plan of care across multiple disciplines such as pediatrics, psychology and medical surgical. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree goes on to teach “a more in-depth treatment of the physical and social sciences, nursing research, public and community health, nursing management, and the humanities” (Impact of education 2015). That this additional education does make a difference can best be proved by nurses that started their career with an Associate Degree in Nursing or a Diploma in Nursing and went on to obtain a BSN. Liana Onsolini-Hain reviewed several studies for an article on the National Student Nurses Association website. The question was, “was it worth it?’ and the answers speak volumes. “RNs reported transformative experiences…, which included…, changing their perspectives about nursing practice, and being able to finally see the big picture. …These nurses felt that returning to school directly benefitted their patients.” (Delaney & Piscopo, 2004 &2007). Not only does the