Educating and monitoring new nurses are two of the most important roles of the advanced practice nurse. They can only achieve these responsibilities through attaining leadership roles. Through leadership positions, nurses can gain more input and influence in shaping national health policy (reference). Before applying for a nurse leadership position, nurses must first understand the position by identifying the qualifications for the job as well as the responsibilities and duties of the leadership position. As a nurse leader, one must have the capacity to realize and prevent conflict or address them effectively when they arise. Understanding the SMART goal model is important in achieving nursing career advancement (reference). This technique helps nurse leaders to set specific measurable goals to help them throughout their careers. Order for nurses (RNs) roles in healthcare essay
Types of Nursing Degrees
In their struggle to achieve their career advancement long-term and short-term goals, nurses can pursue various types of degrees that qualify them for specific roles. Some of these degrees also serve as a stepping stone on a nursing career path that may result in a leadership position in a healthcare setting (reference). Most registered nurses (RNs) have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), although they can also have an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN), or a diploma from an approved nursing program (reference). All the professional degree programs that nursing students pursue prepare them well to pass their licensing examination as well as to thrive in their nursing careers.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Nurses can earn a bachelor of science degree in nursing, which includes courses in physical and social sciences, critical thinking, communication, and leadership. Bachelor’s degree in nursing was considered in the past the minimum requirement for attaining a nurse administrator position and to work as a nurse researcher (reference). However, it was later revised to ensure that a master’s degree in nursing is the minimum requirement for such positions. BSN graduates are known as Registered nurses (RNs) (reference). They form the backbone of healthcare providers in the United States.
Master of Science in Nursing
Master of Science in nursing allows one to become an advanced practice nurse. It is the minimum requirement for clinical nurse specialists (CNS), nurse managers, and researchers. Nurses who are aspiring for leadership roles must enroll in an MSN program and earn the MSN degree (reference). The MSN degree program expands on the science and clinical subjects that undergraduate nursing programs cover.
Doctor of Nursing Practice
The doctor of nursing practice (DNP) includes advanced health assessments, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and other courses related to each NP specialty. Among other nursing leadership positions, nurses with DNP degrees also become nurse educators, nurse administrators, and directors of nursing (reference). Nurses who wish to pursue a doctorate in nursing must choose between a DNP and a Ph.D.