Perceptions of Liberal Education of Two Types of Nursing Graduates: The Essentials of Baccalaureate Education for Professional Nursing Practice

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Jacqueline K. Debrew, Clinical Associate Professor (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/

Abstract: Th e American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN, 1998), which defines the expectations of a new baccalaureate-prepared nurse, includes a liberal education as a desired outcome for bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) graduates. A liberal education is thought to provide the professional nurse with the skills needed to practice nursing, including critical thinking, effective communication, collaboration with others, appreciation of diversity, and integration of knowledge from science and humanities in order to solve problems. According to the AACN, a liberal education prepares nurses to broaden their scope of practice by providing them “with a better understanding of the cultural, political, economic, and social issues that affect patients and influence health care delivery” (2003, para. 4). Additionally, a liberal education helps current students make connections between prior learning and new clinical situations (AACN, 1998). In short, a liberal education enhances professional practice.

Additional Information

Publication
JGE: The Journal of General Education, Vol. 59, No. 1, 2010
Language: English
Date: 2010
Keywords
Liberal education, Nursing, Professional practice, Professional standards

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