Fundamentals & Intro to Nursing

Fundamentals: Intro to Nursing

• Modern Nursing began in the mid-1800s.
• The first school of nursing was established in 1836 in Germany.
• Florence Nightingale is a key figure in the history of nursing.
• The Nurse Associate Alumnae was formed to oversee nurse training; it later became the National League for Nursing.
• 1892 - The first training program for practical nurses was introduced.
• 1955 - Licensure was mandated for practical nurses.

Education Levels in Nursing

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

• Entry-level nursing position.
• Education duration is typically 9 months to 1 year.
• Upon completion of the program, graduates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become licensed LPNs.

Diploma Nurse

• Hospital-based nursing education programs.
• Typically a 3-year program.
• Education and training are overseen by the hospital.

Associate Degree Nurse (ADN)

• Entry-level Registered Nurse (RN) position.
• College program, usually 2 years in length.
• Includes general education courses in addition to nursing-specific coursework.
• Upon completion, graduates must pass the NCLEX-RN to become licensed Registered Nurses.

Baccalaureate Degree Nurse (BSN)

• Entry-level RN position requiring a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.
• A 4-year college degree program.
• Includes additional emphasis on management and leadership skills.
• Upon completion, graduates must pass the NCLEX-RN to become licensed Registered Nurses.