The Future of Nursing 2020-2030: Charting a Path to Achieve Health Equity” report makes recommendations for lifelong learning and achieving higher levels of education. In 1,000-1,250 words, examine th

Expert Solution Preview

Introduction:
Nursing education plays a pivotal role in the healthcare industry as it determines the quality of patient care, professionalism and ethical performance in the workplace. With the release of “The Future of Nursing 2020-2030: Charting a Path to Achieve Health Equity” report, there is an increased emphasis on the importance of continuing education and lifelong learning for nurses. This paper examines the significance of nursing education, differentiates between the various educational levels and discusses the role of continuing nursing education and how it relates to competency, attitudes, knowledge, and the ANA Scope and Standards for Practice and Code of Ethics.

1. Discuss your options in the job market based on your educational level.
There are several options and levels of nursing education that enable one to practice nursing at different entry-level positions. One begins as a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or licensed vocational nurse (LVN), which requires a nursing diploma or an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) from a vocational or community college. LPN/LVNs provide basic bedside care to patients under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and physicians. RNs comprise the largest group of nurses and can work in diverse healthcare settings. They can earn an ADN, Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree, depending on their career goals and aspirations. RNs with a BSN or MSN degree can progress to advanced practice roles as nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, nurse anesthetists or nurse-midwives.

2. Review “The Future of Nursing 2020-2030: Charting a Path to Achieve Health Equity” report’s recommendations for achieving higher levels of education. Describe what professional certification or advanced degrees (MSN, DNP, etc.) you may want to pursue and explain your reasons for wanting to attain this education. Discuss the timeline for accomplishing these goals.
The report highlights the need for nurses to pursue higher levels of education, specifically a bachelor’s degree as the entry-level educational requirement for registered nursing practice. I aspire to attain a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree, with future plans of completing a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. The reasons for pursuing an MSN and DNP degree include expanding my knowledge of healthcare systems, management, and healthcare policy, in addition to attaining advanced clinical expertise in specialized areas such as critical care.

3. Discuss how increasing your level of education would affect how your competitiveness in the current job market and your role in the future of nursing.
Increasing my level of education to an MSN or DNP degree would provide a competitive advantage in the current job market. The advanced academic and clinical knowledge would enable me to work in various roles and positions that otherwise would not be possible with a lower academic degree. Furthermore, the MSN and DNP degrees prepare nurses for leadership roles in healthcare systems and policy-making, ensuring that their voices are heard in shaping the future of healthcare.

4. Discuss the relationship of continuing nursing education to competency, attitudes, knowledge, and the ANA Scope and Standards for Practice and Code of Ethics.
Continuing nursing education (CNE) is an essential aspect of nursing practice that enhances a nurse’s competency, attitudes, and knowledge, ultimately leading to enhanced quality patient care. The ANA Scope and Standards for Practice and Code of Ethics emphasizes the need for nurses to engage in lifelong learning activities such as CNE programs, conferences, workshops and publication of scholarly works, to remain current with clinical practices and emerging trends in healthcare.

5. Discuss whether continuing nursing education should be mandatory. Provide support for your response.
Continuing nursing education should be mandatory as it ensures that all nurses maintain a certain level of competence, and ethical and professional standards in their practice. The healthcare industry is constantly evolving, and continuing education allows nurses to refresh and upgrade their knowledge and skills regularly. Mandatory CNE requirements also help prevent nurses from practicing outdated or unsafe practices, which could compromise patient safety and quality of care. Furthermore, requiring CNE would ensure that every nurse plays an active role in shaping the future of nursing by staying up-to-date with current healthcare practices and trends.