It’s no secret that the need for skilled nurses is on the rise. As the population grows and health concerns become more prevalent in the years to come, the demand for nurses will continue to increase accordingly. Of course, the requirements of the profession will become more demanding as well. With that being the case, many nurses are looking for ways to stay a step ahead of the game.
One way to do that is to enroll in an RN to BSN education program. For nurses who have already acquired their RN license, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree is a potential next step. While RNs aren’t necessarily required to take their education and training to the next level, taking that extra step can come with numerous advantages.
Expanding Your Knowledge
For one, furthering your education as a medical professional expands your knowledge. That, in turn, better equips you to treat patients. BSN programs can include courses in nursing theory, research, and microbiology. They also delve deeper into community and public health, ethics, economics, and healthcare policies. BSN students learn more about the use of technology in healthcare as well. That extra knowledge can help nurses provide more in-depth care for their patients and may lead to improved patient outcomes.
More Career Opportunities
Additionally, nurses with a BSN degree have more career opportunities at their disposal. With a BSN, you can certainly continue to provide basic care for patients, but that’s not your only option. You can choose to pursue a specialty field, such as pediatrics, emergency care, or public health. You could also enter into a leadership role, like nursing director or manager. Those with a BSN can likewise branch out into medical research programs or education. Those are only a few of the possibilities. Having a BSN opens the door to an array of new opportunities.
Higher Income
Along with the added knowledge and expanded career opportunities, you’ll have a higher earning potential with a BSN. Exactly how much more money you could earn with a BSN varies based on certain factors, including the medical facility you work for, your position, and how long you’ve had your BSN. In general, though, the difference tends to range from a few thousand dollars per year to several thousand. On top of that, many medical facilities offer full or partial financial assistance for RNs who pursue their BSNs. That could further offset the cost of higher education.
Meeting a Growing Demand
Finally, earning your BSN could help you meet a growing demand in the medical field. There’s a significant shortage of medical professionals right now, and it’s expected to grow moving forward. As an RN, you’re already in high demand, but medical facilities are increasingly looking for nurses with BSN degrees. Many now require their RNs to earn a BSN within 10 years of obtaining their licenses. Taking that extra step now will certainly be beneficial. You’ll be able to help the industry overcome the growing shortage in even more ways than before as well.
Taking Your Nursing Career to the Next Level As a nurse, you’re in high demand. People need the knowledge and skills you bring to your field, and medical facilities need professionals like you to help them provide high-quality patient care. Earning your BSN can help you to better meet those needs. Taking your career to the next level comes with many advantages from giving you more career opportunities to increasing your income and beyond.
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