From practical nurse to bachelor of nursing student: bridging the transition

Abstract

Abstract Background A streamlined academic approach for career advancement is needed that allows practical or enrolled nurses to obtain a Bachelor of Nursing (BN) degree. One strategy in this approach is offering college-prepared Practical Nurses (PNs) the opportunity to transition into a baccalaureate program through a bridging course. Bridging initiatives serve as professional development opportunities for learners with personal growth and financial advantages on degree completion and enhance health and human resources for health care systems within national and international landscapes. Objective and methods A curricular model and strategies on how such a bridging course can be constructed are discussed in this article. The model integrates teaching and learning strategies as well as course sequencing, structure, and assessment strategies. Results and conclusion This innovative bridging curriculum offers Canadian and international nurse educators a programmatic guideline to create educational pathways for practical or enrolled nurses to obtain a baccalaureate degree. Completion of the bridging curriculum and BN program allow graduates to assume the RN role following a successful pass on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).