Confused future nursing student.

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I have been looking everywhere to try to find out what the differences are, if any, between BSN and RN. And which is better?(sorry, I know that question seems to be asked alot here)

Is there certain requirements needed to go to school for either?

Im just so frustrated with this....

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.

A person with a B.S.N. is actually an RN with a 4-year bachelor of science degree in nursing. Therefore, a BSN is an RN.

There are other ways to become an RN, such as ASN (associate of science in nursing), and three year diploma nursing programs. BSNs, ASNs, and diploma nurses all take the same NCLEX examination, and all possess the same nursing licensure. The primary difference is the educational pathways that they took. I hope this clears things up somewhat.

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Specializes in Med-Surg.

It is indeed confusing that there are three degrees, but all three diploma, associates and bachelor's all take the same exam at the end to become Registered Nurses.

They all three begin at the bedside pretty much on equal footing as a beginning RN and one is not "better" than the other.

The advantage of the BSN is that away from the bedside, as one gets experience, there are job opportunities that are "BSN preferred.

Please feel free to ask any questions.

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