Johnson & Johnson nurse educators

Glasscow Coma scale

Informatics and nursing

The impact of informatics and nursing practice has yet to be experienced to its fullest. In most cases, acute care hospitals are the leaders in application of technology for nursing care. Some states are moving toward mandated computer charting, as well as lab and order entry. This is now affecting skilled nursing facilities. Not only are nurses being required to chart by computer, but nursing assistants are now charting each time they deliver physical care to residents, feed, and administer incontinent care or hygiene interventions. The need for nurses to be technology knowledgeable is rising.

Billings, D. M., & Halstead, J. A. (2009). Teaching in nursing: A guide for faculty (3rd ed). St Louis, MO: Saunders, Elsevier.

The need for nurse educators

The need for nurses by the year 2020 is predicted to be one of the worst shortages we will yet to have experienced in the history of nursing. To reduce this shortage, there is even a greater need for nurse instructors. Campaigns for nurse educators emphasize the influence that experienced nurses can have upon students eager to learn the profession. One instructor can influence thousands.

Bradshaw, M. J., & Loweinstein, A. J. (2011). Innovative teaching strategies in nursing and related health professions (5th ed). Sudbury, MA: Jones and Bartlett.

Incentives for nurse educators

Many are unaware that there are incentives for nurses to become nurse educators. A major loan forgiveness program is available that will repay 85% of a nurse's student loans if they agree to teach full time in a school of nursing. Many states have scholarship funding programs that also offer some financial assistance to students wishing to enter nursing education. For further information:
Nurse education, Retrieved from http://nursingworld.org/MainMenuCategories/Policy-Advocacy/State/2006/education1275...

3 year BSN programs

The possibility of three year BSN programs has been discussed lately as an option. An increasing number of states are looking at stipulating 4 year degree programs be offered on 3 year tracks as a cost saving effort for the future of college education. In a recent poll 58% were not in support of 3 year BSN programs, though many schools offer a fast track option for students with degrees in other areas. The question remains as to the effect these types of degrees would have on meeting educational standards, allowing for reflection, personal growth, and long-term learning, personal time for other obligations, such as part time work.

Smith, S. P. (2012). The future of nursing: Leading change, Nurse Educator, 37(1), 3-5.

The role of simulators

Simulators represent the latest in technological advances for nursing education along with advances in computer technology. Simulators include mechanical manikins that are able to duplicate patients experiencing acute health changes in need of immediate intervention and treament as well as case studies, role playing, and small group projects that address potential scenearios for development of critical thinking skills. Some believe that simulators assist with enhancement of the clinical experience particularly since acute care hospital experience is more llimited due to reduced hospital stays. What is your opinion of this newer approach to nursing education?

Rausen, C A. (2004). Simulation s a teaching strategy for nursing education and orientation in cardiac surgery, Critical Care Nurse, 24(3), 36-51.

Sanford, P. G. (2010). Simulation in nursing education: A review of the research, The Qualittive Re[port, 15(4), 1006-1011.