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Published on: June 21, 2010
Returning for a baccalaureate: a descriptive exploratory study of nurses' perceptions
Paulette LaCava Osterman1, Marilyn E Asselin, H Allethaire Cullen
1Community College of Rhode Island, Warwick, Rhode Island, USA.
Summary
Registered nurses (RNs) pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) find personal satisfaction and develop a broader approach to their practice. The BSN degree enhances professional self-perception and impacts nursing practice.
Area of Science:
- Nursing Education
- Professional Development
- Qualitative Research
Background:
- The pursuit of higher education in nursing is a significant career pathway.
- Understanding the lived experiences of nurses pursuing baccalaureate degrees is crucial for professional advancement.
- The impact of advanced nursing education on practice and self-perception warrants in-depth exploration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the meaning of pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) for registered nurses (RNs).
- To determine how a BSN degree influences an RN's professional self-perception.
- To assess the impact of obtaining a BSN on an RN's nursing practice.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study design.
- In-depth examination of RNs' experiences.
- Phenomenological approach to understand lived experiences.
Main Results:
- Participants reported significant personal satisfaction from completing their BSN degrees.
- Pursuit of the BSN led to a broader, more comprehensive approach to nursing practice.
- The BSN degree positively influenced participants' professional identity and self-perception.
Conclusions:
- Baccalaureate education offers personal fulfillment and professional growth for RNs.
- BSN-prepared nurses demonstrate enhanced practice capabilities and a stronger professional identity.
- Staff development specialists should consider the benefits of supporting RNs in pursuing BSN degrees.
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