Competency differences between BSN and ADN

GCU
Professional Dynamics NSG-430
1
Tricia Aud
February 04, Competency differences between BSN and ADN are many, the BSN is more prepared than ADN to be a nurse, as they are more efficient and effective. Although the ADN can do many of the same jobs, access patients, pass medications and start intravenous lines, the BSN is more academically well rounded thus making them more qualified to be leaders, educators and managers in the work environment.
The argument is weather the educational level of a nurse affects their decision making and leadership skills. In an article my Marcia Masters (1989) she explains that decision making is an inherent task to the role of today’s nurse. The nursing environment is both demanding and complex. After the development of the technical nurse by Margret Montag (1951), due to the shortage of nurses after WWII, there has been an ongoing controversy. She believed in a new kind of nurse, one that would be prepared to start after a two year program. Although good intentioned, some believe the ADN not to be as adept at decisions making and critical thinking as the BSN. Some ADN programs do have curriculum for leadership/ management as part of their courses or incorporated in another course. De Chow (1977) points out, “when the ADN programs were conceived, they were not meant to prepare graduates for administrative tasks and positions.” Along with taking the same educational board exam the ADN also takes on the same legal responsibilities the BSN nurse.
There is an actual formal education difference in the competency in BSN and ADN, it relates to time spent in the classroom. The ADN as stated above, receives their degree in two years. The BSN, on the other hand, receives their degree in 4 years. The ADN studies at a junior or community college, preparing them mostly for clinical and