Future of ADN programs

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When I look at the future of nursing and most hospitals wanting a nurse to have a BSN, what do you think the future of ADN programs will be? Do you think that they will be utilized as much or less?

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Specializes in IMCU, Oncology.

No. I think most will develop bridge programs to universities. My community college is doing that and I am able to save about 10,000 by going there and then bridging to university.

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Specializes in Hospitalist Medicine.

My ADN program bridges to our local state university. We only have to complete 5 semesters (2 courses per semester) to complete the BSN. That's my next step after I get my RN. It's designed to allow you to work at the same time :)

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Specializes in Pediatrics.

In Oregon they have The Oregon nurses consortium for ADN programs. 7 of the community colleges have partnered with a university for the students to get their ADN then continue for another year to two and get their BSN through the university, but allows them to attend classes at the community college campus. Plus there are other colleges in the area that you can bridge to, to get the BSN.

I believe it is supply and demand. 15 years ago there was a demand for nurses so the hospitals didn't require it, now there is a surplus of nurses. When you get 100+ applicants for 1 job. The hospitals can be picky who they choose, having the BSN is another filter.

I know I was satisfied with my ADN education, but I wanted to work in a hospital so I got the BSN.

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Specializes in L&D, infusion, urology.

Just as LVNs haven't "gone away", I doubt we'll see ADN-prepared nurses disappear anytime in the near future. Plenty of hospitals, particularly in more rural settings, are perfectly happy with ADNs and really don't care that much about an associate's versus a bachelor's. I think most nurses in big cities will be forced to go the BSN route one way or another, but I don't foresee ADN programs going away.

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Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

There will still be a place for ADN nurses in non-acute settings. IF the ACA takes hold as planned, these settings will become far more common than hospitals.

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Sounds like a homework assignment to me, but I'll bite.

Less. I think over time as society -- and the profession-- finally realizes the importance of more comprehensive education for a workforce that's charged with so much responsibility, that ADN programs will gradually go the way of diploma ones, and for the same reasons.

Sitting back with my popcorn to watch the ensuing entertaining show now ...

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