Differentiated practice structures the roles and functions of nurses according to education, experience, and competence. Although differentiation has increased staff retention and reduced recruiting costs, improvements in patient care are difficult to prove. (SK)

The study reveals similarities between the two groups, but degree graduates are less restricted in patient preferences, place higher value on ability and lower value on personal traits as characteristics typifying good nurses, show more satisfaction with their education, and seem more likely to seek promotions outside the hospital system. (Author)

The baccalaureate nursing program at Herbert H. Lehman College, Bronx, New York prepares students for primary care nursing by structuring the clinical experience to include the essential, interdependent components of: assessment, accountability, leadership, and management. Graduates are expected to be proficient in the primary care role in any…

A plan for revising nursing education proposes (1) direct transfer linkage to improve associate/bachelor's degree articulation; (2) partnerships for student transfer between junior and senior colleges; and (3) a terminal nurse associate program to prepare for long-term nursing home care. (SK)

In a survey of Oregon hospital directors of nursing for their perceptions of the performance of new graduates from associate degree, baccalaureate, and diploma programs, the author found that the associate degree nurse was ranked lowest. It appeared that the directors' own backgrounds influenced their ratings. (MF)

The authors focus on the group processes involved when nursing faculty from various specialty backgrounds form teams in order to plan and implement an integrated baccalaureate nursing curriculum. It is important that anxiety be channeled toward positive action so members can progress from frustration to collaboration. (Author/EA)

The articulated Bachelor of Science/Master of Science nursing program at the University of California-San Francisco School of Nursing is designed to alleviate nurses' fears about their professional futures by giving nonbaccalaureate registered nurses an opportunity to earn bachelor's and advanced degrees while they continue to work. (Author/JOW)

The authors discuss the care-cure dichotomy (baccaulaureate students were found to be care-oriented; the associate degree students were cure-oriented) and the problems these attitudes present. (Author/BP)

Preliminary studies using performance-based tools to validate student competence in interpersonal relations and in using all of the steps of the nursing process in a specific care situation are being conducted in the baccalaureate nursing program at Salem State College in Massachusetts. (EA)

Discusses findings from a survey of family units in South Carolina to explore whether the public views nurses and nursing education as being professional or technical. More than half the respondents believed that nurses should have a baccalaureate degree and even more saw nurses as professionals. Includes implications for nursing education. (MF)

The project was designed to offer opportunities for part-time study to full-time employed nurses seeking baccalaureate degrees. A major portion of the requirements would be met through independent study programs. Activities involved in carrying out the program are discussed. (EC)

The development of nursing leaders was the broad goal of an Iowa project which developed lower-division transfer curriculums to articulate directly with the upper division major in nursing, thereby almost doubling the number of graduates with baccalaureate preparation for nursing. After five years, the program can be called successful. (Author/AJ)

Discusses a survey sent to 119 RN (registered nursing) students enrolled in a BSN (bachelor of science in nursing) program which revealed much unresolved ambivalence about the meaning of "professional" nursing and the need for the BSN; suggests that a major problem in nursing today is the professional/technical controversy that must be settled for…

It is not enough for the new associate degree (AD) nursing graduate to know the theory and be willing to learn. She must also have some skill in providing basic nursing care. Examples of applicants, both ADNs and BSNs, are described to illustrate the nursing talent necessary to practice sensitively and effectively. (Editor/TA)

Examines the Differentiated Practice Role of Nurse model which provides a basis for discussion of collaborative ADN (Associate Degree of Nursing) and BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) prepared practice. Discusses provision of direct care competencies, communication competencies, and management competencies. (CT)