We congratulate the author on continuing his educational journey! The Institute of Medicine report1  recognized that nurses have experienced barriers in returning for additional education, and recommended that students’ transitions into higher degree programs be seamless. Identifying and addressing barriers to nurses gaining additional education is imperative. Whereas nursing education continues to be grounded in both basic and social sciences (both of which are essential), as patient care has increased in complexity the knowledge necessary for practice has increased as well. In addition to strong preparation in the sciences and clinical care delivery, nurses must also be competent in leadership, health policy, quality and safety, and health systems improvement. The knowledge base for nursing practice is extensive.

You do not currently have access to this content.