A BSN degree may be worth it for nursing if the RN has the appropriate experience and wants to move into a management or leadership position. The RN requirements for a BSN degree vary by state, but most require at least two years of nursing experience. The RN-BSN program is generally an accelerated program that nurses can complete in as little as 12 months. These accelerated programs are perfect for nurses that have families to take care of and that are balancing work, school, and other responsibilities. 

In addition to RNs, many other health care professionals can benefit from obtaining a BSN degree. These include licensed practical nurses (LPNs), certified nurse assistants (CNAs), and medical assistants (MAs). Health care organizations increasingly require their employees to have a BSN degree. The Institute of Medicine (IOM) and the Future of Nursing report both recommend that 80% of the nursing workforce have a BSN degree by 2020.

There are many reasons why obtaining a BSN degree may be beneficial for RNs and other health care professionals. Below are some of the many benefits you can experience when using the fastest RN to BSN online program available to you.

Improved patient outcomes

RNs with a BSN degree have been shown to have better patient outcomes. One study showed that RNs with a BSN degree were associated with decreased mortality rates and increased patient satisfaction. These statistics show just how important it is for nurses to continue with higher education, which can help them provide high-quality patient care in a variety of hospital settings.

BSN degree programs are focused on teaching the latest in hospital and medical care, and are essential tools for any health professional looking to decrease mortality rates and improve patient outcomes.

Job satisfaction

RNs with a BSN degree report higher job satisfaction than RNs without a BSN degree. This is likely because RNs with a BSN degree have more opportunities for career advancement and higher salaries. RNs with a BSN degree can also pursue advanced practice roles, such as nurse practitioner or clinical nurse specialist.

Nurses can also enjoy learning new skills, working alongside other students, and learning how to refine their medical care with a group of like-minded individuals in class.

Higher Salaries

RNs with a BSN degree earn more money than RNs without a BSN degree. In fact, RNs with a BSN degree can earn up to $5,000 more per year than RNs without a BSN degree. This is likely because RNs with a BSN degree have more opportunities for career advancement and are in high demand by employers.

Licensing Requirements

In order to become an RN, you must first pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Once you have passed the NCLEX-RN exam, you will be licensed as an RN in your state of residence. In order to practice nursing, RNs must maintain their licenses by completing continuing education credits and renewing their licenses every two years. RNs who want to obtain a BSN degree must meet the RN requirements for a BSN degree, which vary by state.

It’s best to find an RN to BSN program that can satisfy the BSN’s ten requirements and help nurses keep their hard-earned licenses. Unfortunately, some states now require nurses to complete other licensing requirements, including obtaining a BSN within ten years of their original RN licensure. Failure to obtain a BSN might result in the suspension of an RN license.

Find the Best RN to BSN Program As Soon As Possible

A BSN degree is an important investment for RNs and other health care professionals. The improved patient outcomes, higher job satisfaction, increased salaries, and new licensing requirements make a BSN degree worth the time and money for many RNs. Consider researching for the best RN to BSN program so you can avoid losing your license, improve your healthcare career outcomes, and enjoy being the best nurse you can be.