in a Microsoft Word document of 4-5 pages formatted in APA style, develop a strategic plan to aid your transition into the role of a professional nurse. In your paper, address each of the following criteria:
- Discuss factors influencing your decision to obtain a BSN degree.
- Discuss how the role of the baccalaureate differs from your current role.
- Describe new opportunities that may be available after degree completion.
- Examine one of the two models of socialization discussed in your readings and place yourself in one of the stages.
- Provide your rationale for that placement.
- If none of the models or stages fits your experience, create your own model (or stage).
- Identify two professional short-term goals.
- Identify two professional long-term goals.
- Expound upon the challenges and barriers you face in pursuit of your short- and long-term goals.
- Identify mentors and support systems that aid you in overcoming challenges and barriers necessary to achieve goals.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
As a medical professor responsible for creating college assignments and evaluating student performance, I have expertise in education and training in the medical field. Through my experience, I understand the importance of continuous learning and professional development to excel in any career. Similarly, pursing a BSN degree is essential for nurses who want to advance their careers. In this paper, I will develop a strategic plan on how to transition into a professional nurse role by discussing factors influencing the decision to pursue a BSN degree, differences between the baccalaureate and current role, new opportunities after completing the degree, placing myself in one of the stages of the models of socialization, identifying two professional short-term and long-term goals, describing the challenges and barriers I may face in achieving my goals, and stating how mentors and support systems can aid in overcoming those challenges.
Factors influencing the decision to obtain a BSN degree:
Various factors can influence a nurse’s decision to pursue a BSN degree. One significant factor is the changes occurring in healthcare systems, which have triggered a need for more nurses with advanced education to meet the increasingly complex healthcare demands. Advanced education provides nurses with both the skills and knowledge they need to offer quality patient care. Another influencing factor is the current market demand for nurses with advanced education. Many employers today prefer to hire nurses with a BSN degree, and for those aspiring to higher roles, an MSN, DNP, or PhD degree might be required. As such, obtaining a BSN degree improves a nurse’s marketability, job security, and upward mobility in the profession.
Differences between the role of the baccalaureate and current role:
The BSN degree offers the nurse a broader scope of practice than their current role. Nurses who hold a BSN degree gain new knowledge and skills in leadership, research, informatics, community health, and more. They can work in diverse healthcare settings, engage in higher-level decision-making, and take on greater responsibility for patient outcomes. A nurse with a BSN degree has the potential to work as a charge nurse, assistant manager, and team leader in facilities where clinical practice, research, quality improvement, and leadership are essential for effective healthcare delivery.
New opportunities available after degree completion:
Upon completion of a BSN degree, one may access several new opportunities that were unattainable without the degree. The BSN degree offers a nurse entry and advancement opportunities into nursing specializations such as oncology, critical care, and pediatrics. Additionally, nurses with a BSN degree can acquire roles in public health organizations, community care clinics, government agencies, educational institutions, and non-governmental organizations. They may also opt to continue their education at a higher level, pursuing MSN, DNP, or PhD degrees.
One Model of socialization and the stage I am in:
One of the models of socialization discussed in nursing literature is the Benner’s model of novice to expert. In this model, the stages are novice, advanced beginner, competent, proficient, and expert. Based on Benner’s model, I am still in the advanced beginner stage as I have gained some nursing experience but still require guidance and support in complex clinical issues. I feel competent in some areas of patient care but still need guidance as I lack confidence in others. I still need clinical exposure while ensuring that I keep up with current research and clinical trends to guarantee that I provide my patients with the best possible care.
Two Professional short-term goals:
One short-term professional goal I have is to obtain additional certifications in critical care nursing while also completing my BSN. The second short-term goal I have is to attend a national nursing conference to keep my clinical knowledge updated, network, and learn about new research methods.
Two Professional long-term goals:
The first long-term goal I have is to complete a DNP program. Having a DNP program will provide me with the necessary knowledge and skills to advance in my leadership career, research, education, and clinical practice. The second long-term goal is to become a nurse mentor, trainer, and educator. I believe that I can have a great impact on future nurses by sharing my knowledge and expertise with them.
Challenges and barriers faced in pursuit of short- and long-term goals:
Some of the challenges and barriers I expect to face in pursuing my short-term goals include time management and financial constraints. As a medical professor, my duties typically occupy much of my time, and thus attending conferences will involve negotiating with my employer for time off work. Also, obtaining additional nursing certifications will require time and money, and thus, I must strike a balance between work, education, and family. Regarding long-term goals, financial constraints and time commitment will be a major challenge. Pursing a DNP program will require a significant amount of money; hence, I will have to find alternative financing options. I will also have to balance my work, family, and study time to ensure that none suffers during the process.
Mentors and support systems that aid in overcoming challenges and barriers:
Mentors who have already succeeded in the areas I am pursuing would be an incredible support system for me. Talking to them will provide me with guidance, encouragement, and inspiration. Additionally, academic and career advisers from my school will assist me in setting career and academic goals, as well as advise me in identifying potential scholarships and grants that can fund my education. Furthermore, my family and colleagues can provide me with emotional support during my study period to alleviate the stress and pressure that comes with career progression.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, transitioning into the role of a professional nurse, requires dedication and a clear plan. Obtaining a BSN degree, identifying short and long-term goals, and identifying mentors and support systems are all critical steps to achieving this goal. While facing challenges and barriers in achieving these goals, it is important to remain dedicated, motivated, and seek support from mentors, academic advisers, and family members. The transition from a novice to an expert is a journey that requires hard work, time, and patience.
