Nurse education

Nurse education consists of the theoretical and practical training provided to nurses with the purpose to prepare them for their duties as nursing care professionals. This education is provided to nursing students by experienced nurses and other medical professionals who have qualified or experienced for educational tasks. Most countries offer nurse education courses that can be relevant to general nursing or to specialized areas including mental health nursing, pediatric nursing and post-operatory nursing.

History

Nurse education has undergone a process of diversification towards advanced and specialized credentials. Nurses can choose from a range of programs, including nursing assistant, licensed practical nurse and registered nurse. Nurse education can be obtained through colleges, universities or even hospitals.

Types of Nurse Education

There are two types of nurse education: initial education, also known as pre-registration education, and continuing education, also known as post-registration education.

Initial Education

Initial education prepares an individual to become a registered nurse. Programs range from a diploma to a bachelor's degree. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a four-year degree that prepares nurses for a career in nursing. The Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is a two-year degree offered by community colleges and hospital-based schools of nursing that prepares individuals for a career in nursing.

Continuing Education

Continuing education are courses that nurses take after they receive their license. Continuing education is designed to help nurses grow their skills.

Nursing Specialties

There are many different types of nursing specialties. These specialties are usually based on a specific population, a type of care, a type of health problem, or a certain type of advanced practice.

Nursing Education in Different Countries

Nursing education varies across different countries. In the United States, nursing students learn through traditional classroom and lab instruction. They also gain experience through clinical rotations. In the United Kingdom, nursing education and training programs are only run by approved providers and regulated by the Nursing and Midwifery Council.

See Also

• Nursing school
• Nursing student
• Clinical nurse educator