A Continuing Education Model for Community Health Nursing Practice

Abstract

Although community health nursing standards of practice state that the baccalaureate degree (BSN) is the entry level for practice, the reality is that over 60% of the workforce has less than a bachelor's degree. Furthermore, BSN programs have been criticized for not putting sufficient emphasis on content areas critical for effective entry-level practice. This article presents a continuing education model that could guide agencies in developing programs to correct these deficits, incorporating both initial orientation, ongoing staff development, and formal advanced preparation. The educational background of the nurse determines the clinical activities and degree of supervision required for practice. The non-BSN entering practice should take an intensive course in basic skills identified as essential for practice in the community health setting. Work or professional assignments dictate additional staff development needs. Formal academic preparation at the bachelor's, toaster's, and doctoral levels is encouraged. Description of the content, course format, and evaluation information regarding the North Carolina course for preparing non-BSN RN's for entry-level community health practice is presented.