NurseNet, a popular listserv for nurses, often sparks lively discussions about hot nursing topics. Recently, a stimulating conversation about the importance of the BSN degree took place. With her permission, we’ve reprinted portions of a thought provoking post by Wendie A. Howland, RN, MN, CRRN, CCM, CNLCP.

Advanced nursing education isn’t just about a better salary or more interesting job. It also makes it possible for nurses to take their nursing career in new directions. One such nurse put her education and experience to use advocating for clients and pioneering a new nursing specialty…

In a book based on the first national study of nursing education in thirty years, as well as the results of three other national surveys and extended site visits, the authors of Educating Nurses: A Call for Radical Transformation call modern nursing education outdated, discuss the future of the nursing profession, and propose revolutionary changes in the education of nurses.

Many states are changing their nurse practice acts and moving towards minimizing LPN responsibilities, making it cost inefficient for hospitals to hire LPNs. Thus, a growing number of hospitals are eliminating LPN positions and replacing them with RN positions. For some LPNs, these career limitations provided the incentive to return to school to become an RN. Learn more about LPN to RN Transition programs…

Integrating mental health with primary care is an innovative approach that saves healthcare dollars and improves patient outcomes. Donna Torrisi, MSN, CRNP explains the benefits that followed from implementing this approach at the Family Practice and Counseling Network. Learn more about this challenging career option for Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioners…

Finding a job is no day at the beach. It’s even tougher when you’re faced with difficult or embarrassing career quandaries. We asked a few job seekers to share their job-related questions. Then we asked some seasoned career coaches to weigh in with some expert advice.