All about a Nursing Career
The Impact of Education on Nursing Practice
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), the national voice for baccalaureate and graduate nursing programs, believes that education has a significant impact on the knowledge and competencies of the nurse clinician, as it does for all health care providers. Nurses with Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degrees are well-prepared to meet the demands placed on today's nurse. BSN nurses are prized for their skills in critical thinking, leadership, case management, and health promotion, and for their ability to practice across a variety of inpatient and outpatient settings. Nurse executives, federal agencies, the military, leading nursing organizations, health care foundations, magnet hospitals, and minority nurse advocacy groups all recognize the unique value that baccalaureate-prepared nurses bring to the practice setting.
Nature of Work and Employment
Licensed practical nurses (LPNs), or licensed vocational nurses (LVNs), care for people who are sick, injured, convalescent, or disabled under the direction of physicians and registered nurses. The nature of the direction and supervision required varies by State and job setting. Most LPNs are generalists and work in all areas of health care. However, some work in a specialized setting, such as a nursing home, a doctor’s office, or in home health care. LPNs in nursing care facilities help to evaluate residents’ needs, develop care plans, and supervise the care provided by nursing aides. In doctors’ offices and clinics, they may be responsible for making appointments, keeping records, and performing other clerical duties. LPNs who work in home health care may prepare meals and teach family members simple nursing tasks.
National League for Nursing
Dedicated to excellence in nursing education, the National League for Nursing is the preferred membership organization for nurse faculty and leaders in nursing education. NLN members include nurse educators, education agencies, health care agencies, and interested members of the public. The NLN offers faculty development programs, networking opportunities, testing and assessment, nursing research grants, and public policy initiatives to its 20,000 individual and 1100 institutional members.
American Nurses Association
When you join ANA – you will be part of a team that advances the nursing profession and fights for the health care of this nation. No matter what your practice area, role, or interest– ANA has a place for you. ANA membership helps you to broaden and enhance your nursing knowledge and your career opportunities...all while enjoying significant members-only discounts on a wide variety of services and products.
Nursing Responsibilities
The Registered Nurse (Mental Health) is accountable to the Clinical Nurse Manager for the care of patients/clients and their families during hospitalisation, demonstrating and applying a knowledge and understanding of all aspects of nursing care. The application of that knowledge and experience ensures patients’/clients’ needs are met and in liaison with other Registered Nurses, Clinical Nurses and the Clinical Nurse Manager maintains clinical standards within a multi-disciplinary team environment. The Registered Nurse (Mental Health) is accountable to the Clinical Nurse Manager for cost effective management of resources in providing patient/client care services.
