The Institute of Medicine and the Kentucky Nurses Association are pushing for the “Entry into Practice” nurse to be a BSN (bachelor of science in nursing). This module also is supported by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.
Many larger hospitals already have implemented this strategy and started eliminating the undergraduate nurses from the facilities beginning with the licensed practical nurses (LPNs). Registered nurses will feel the burden equally in these areas as the LPNs, since we are undergraduate nurses.
Management suggests and reflected in the Kentucky Board of Nursing a 10-year module to become a BSN. Many in the nursing community feel a “grandfathering” of practice will be granted to undergraduate nurses in current practice.
I call upon all undergraduate nurses and colleges to join in number and voice to let organizations/leaders know that we are valuable, vital and essential to the nursing profession and the public we serve. It is imperative for our continued practice in all areas of health care. Unlicensed personnel shall not substitute for a licensed nurse.
We must not sit back any longer and allow this process to continue. Advancement to BSN and beyond should remain an individual choice or freedom, not a requirement to continue the profession we have chosen as clinicians to the commonwealth.
I ask you all not to just look at the here and now, but think of the future nursing generations following us.
Nursing has evolved and advanced much over the years, and we must protect not only our profession but our clients. Contact me at jamiedaniel75@yahoo.com with questions, comments or concerns and work together to make a positive difference for all nurses.
Jamie D. Daniel, LPN
Hustonville
