Since there are many jobs with BSN degree qualifications available, finding the right opportunity may seem challenging. To improve one’s chances of finding the right job, they should be prepared to weigh their options carefully and consider jobs with Bachelor of Science in Nursing requirements that mesh well with their individual needs and goals.
BSN Nursing Duties
BSN nurses are qualified to handle many job responsibilities that include patient care and administrative duties. Professionals in the field should be prepared to work in various healthcare settings with very minimal supervision. RNs may also be required to lead and manage lower level nurses, develop patient care plans, oversee patient hygiene, and administering medicines and treatments. Other nursing duties include:
- Observing patients for changes in behavior or condition.
- Providing patient education.
- Operating medical equipment.
- Document and record patient history, care plans, test results and symptoms.
- Perform diagnostic tests.
Daily nursing duties vary greatly depending on the specific field, role and company of employment. Nurses with a Bachelor of Science are expected to be more professional, knowledgeable and capable of performing at a higher level of competency than lower level nurses and medical staff that hold lesser degrees.
Skills Needed to Be Successful Registered Nurse
To succeed as an RN, one needs to possess a variety of skills to enable them to meet the fast-paced dynamics in the field. Nurses should be empathetic, compassionate, able to set aside their own personal feelings and problems in order to serve and care for their patients. They should also be able to delegate administrative duties and while improving the overall care process and environment for their patients and colleagues.
Since nurses are in constant contact with patients, they have to maintain a heightened sense of awareness that enables them to notice critical details about their patients right away. They need to be able to communicate effectively to patients and their family members or caregivers. Nurses also should be able to handle highly critical situations in which the outcome is dire or uncertain while staying calm and in charge.
- Other valuable skills that nurses with a BSN should have include:
- Ability to think on their feet.
- Patience and good organizational skills.
- Great stress management.
- Physical and mental strength and endurance.
- Good judgment and decision-making capabilities.
Many new graduates are still developing these skills and may need to amass more hands on experience in order to feel entirely comfortable in their roles. These skills will come naturally and can greatly improve one’s candidacy for more rewarding and lucrative positions in the field in the future. Nurses who have these skills can successfully treat and manage their patients, thus improving the quality of patient care in their work environment.
BSN Education and Licenses
Prior to seeking gainful employment as a nurse, graduates are required to pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses). Once passed, graduates are licensed and will have the educational and licensing requirements to apply for more senior level nursing positions. Of course, graduates who are already licensed as registered nurses do not have to sit for the exam again in their state.
To stay current with healthcare regulations and care guidelines, BSN nurses are required to complete continuing education credits all throughout their career. Continuing education requirements vary from state to state.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing Career Path
Senior level qualified nurses have a variety of career paths available to them. Depending on the area of skill, education and interest, professionals with their BSN may choose to seek out employment in hospitals, private and public healthcare settings, government sector, and physician offices, and research facilities. Professionals seeking higher earning and more advancement opportunities could work towards a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or doctorates degree.
BSN Salary Expectations
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, professionals with a BSN degree may expect to make between $45,040 and $94,720 annually, with the average being $65,470. In addition to lucrative wages, many employers also offer additional benefits and perks, such as day care, healthcare, bonuses, and flexible working schedules. Salary potential and benefits vary from state to state.
Holding a BSN can open the door for a rewarding and lucrative career for registered nurses. The degree also makes it possible for RNs who want to pursue further education and advanced career specifications to do so while working for increased flexibility.