Associate versus Baccalaureate Nurses

Just like in the case of clinicians and other medical practitioners, education in the field of nursing plays an important role in transforming individual experiences and levels of expertise, especially in relation to providing patients’ care services. Contemporary issues in the field of nursing require precise and sufficient skill impartment in order to meet the rising health needs for more effective medical services (Aiken, Cimiotti, Sloane, Smith, Flynn & Neff, 2011). The discussions raised in this paper focuses on the fundamental differences between associate degree nurses and Baccalaureate degree nurses. The case scenario mentioned in this paper with help us understand the differences in approaches, roles, experiences and skills used during clinical-decision making under each nursing practice.Associate versus Baccalaureate Nurses

Associate Degree Nurses versus Baccalaureate Degree Nurses

Associate degree nurses are categorized as those nurses with between two to three years of training, particularly at a community college nursing and after the graduate level, the associate degree nurse is allowed to take a Licensure Examination in order to become a fully accredited nurse (a registered nurse) (Kutney-Lee, Sloane & Aiken, 2013). The associate degree nursing program is offered with an aim of increasing the number of nurses in different healthcare centers. The success of the program is measured based on the levels of nursing skills imparted in clinicians and the rate at which graduate pass their Licensure Examinations.

On the other hand, Baccalaureate Degree Nurses are nurses with between four to five years of training in the field of nursing. As opposed to an associate degree nurse, a baccalaureate degree nurse must fulfil three distinct stages before becoming a registered nurse. For a Baccalaureate nurse, going through a two-year general education and a 3 year nursing program is necessary. After the 3 year nursing program, the graduate of this nursing program must take licensure examination with the examination council before becoming fully registered as a practicing nurse.