Student Perceptions Related to Immediate Workplace Usefulness of RN-to-BSN Program Content.

Abstract

Despite a national directive for associate degree in nursing (ADN) nurses to complete BSN degrees, there is limited research related to student perceptions of the value added by BSN education. The purpose was to explore perceptions of immediate workplace usefulness of RN-to-BSN content for ADNs. Qualitative narrative data provided by 263 RN-BSN students in their final semester before graduating with a BSN were analyzed. Students were asked, "How have you used what you are learning in the RN-BSN program at work?" Themes included the following: research and evidence-based practice, leadership, professionalism, communication, intentional holistic caring, critical thinking, cultural competence, safety and quality improvement, interdisciplinarity, population-based care, and fiscal awareness. Results clarified content that students found useful and provided insight into specific benefits that employers might expect to see when ADNs complete BSN-level education.