The ANA’s proposal for entry level for professional practice initiated

The ANA’s proposal for entry level for professional practice initiated debate among nurses. Which of the following would be most at risk if the ANA proposal were implemented?

1. An RN with an associate degree who has a head nurse position
2. An RN with a BSN who is a staff nurse
3. An RN with a diploma who works overtime
4. An RN with an associate degree who is currently in school

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 1
Rationale: According to the ANA’s proposal, only the baccalaureate graduate would be licensed under the legal title registered nurse. The graduate with an associate degree or diploma would be considered a technical nurse. If the ANA proposal is implemented, nurses who are currently licensed and educated in associate degree or diploma programs would have to be considered under a grandfather clause, provided that their performance meets established standards. If an institution required a minimum of a baccalaureate degree for the position of head nurse, an RN who is currently employed as a head nurse but who does not hold the baccalaureate degree would have no guarantee of retaining that position.