Nursing, Associate Degree (RN)

Nursing (RN) Guidelines

History of Nursing
Nursing has existed in various forms in every culture, although the definition of the term and the practice of nursing has changed greatly over time. It was during time of war that a significant development in nursing history arose when Florence Nightingale, working to improve conditions of soldiers in the Crimean War, laid the foundation stone of professional nursing with the principles summarized in the book Notes on Nursing. The modern era has seen the development of nursing degrees and nursing has numerous journals to broaden the knowledge base of the profession. Nurses are often in key management roles within health services and hold research posts at universities The authority for the practice of nursing is based upon a social contract that delineates professional rights and responsibilities as well as mechanisms for public accountability. In almost all countries, nursing practice is defined and governed by law, and entrance to the profession is regulated at national or state level.

The aim of the nursing community worldwide is to develop the profession guided by continuing education based on nursing research, and to regulate standards of competency and ethics. There are a number of educational paths to becoming a professional nurse, which vary greatly worldwide, but all involve extensive study of nursing theory and practice and training in clinical skills.

Nursing encompasses autonomous and collaborative care of individuals of all ages, families, groups and communities, sick or well and in all settings. Nursing includes the promotion of health, prevention of illness, and the care of ill, disabled and dying people. Advocacy, promotion of a safe environment, research, participation in shaping health policy and in patient and health systems management, and education are also key nursing roles.

What can I do with this degree?
Employment: As the largest health care occupation, registered nurses held about 2.5 million jobs nationwide in 2006. Hospitals employed the majority of RNs, with 59 percent of jobs. Other industries also employed large shares of workers. About 8 percent of jobs were in offices of physicians, 5 percent in home health care services, 5 percent in nursing care facilities, 4 percent in employment services, and 3 percent in outpatient care centers. The remainder worked mostly in government agencies, social assistance agencies, and educational services. About 21 percent of RNs worked part time. In Texas estimated projections 2004-2014 is 149,950 RNs, annual openings estimated at 8,980 positions.

Earnings: Median annual earnings of registered nurses nationwide were $57,280 in May 2006. The middle 50 percent earned between $47,710 and $69,850. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $40,250, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $83,440. Median annual earnings of registered nurses in Texas were $26.80 per hour in 2006. Entry wage was $20.96 per hour, experienced wage was $31.00 per hour.

Academic options: While this program is designed for direct employment, the opportunity exists to continue nursing education with RN to BSN (Bachelor's in Nursing) and RN to MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) Programs. Most of these programs are offered online with a clinical component.

Department/Contact Information:

• Office of Advising : Genecov 222 or 903-510-2662 or Toll Free 1-800-687-5680, ext 2662
  
  
• Rebecca Seeton, MSN, RNC Department Chair, Associate Degree (RN) Nursing
  - Pirtle Technology, T-125B | rsee@tjc.edu | 903-510-2869
  
  
• Nancy Dugan, Records Coordinator, Associate Degree (RN) Nursing
  - Pirtle Technology, T-125B | ndug@tjc.edu | 903-510-2869