RN to BSN

Finding a nursing program that fits your needs can go a long way toward success, and affordability is often a top priority. For registered nurses (RN) pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, some may benefit from looking at out-of-state program options that better align with their financial, lifestyle, and career goals.

According to CalMatters, the demand for nurses in California is particularly significant: data from the Hospital Association of Southern California notes that vacancy rates of nurses in state hospitals exceed 30%. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, this rate was only 6%.

An Affordable Alternative to In-State Programs

The high demand for nurses in California means nurses in the state may be seeking to expand their education. However, California nurses are not restricted to getting their degrees within their state or in person. Typically, in-state degree programs are less expensive than out-of-state options. However, nurses living in states with a high cost of living, like California, may find an out-of-state nursing program that suits their budget and educational needs.

The University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK) online RN to BSN program is available to students in California, providing an affordable alternative to in-state and in-person tuition. For example, UMFK’s online RN to BSN program costs much less than the average cost of California-based BSN degree programs.

Not only can these significant cost savings make higher education in nursing much more accessible to California residents, but the pay-as-you-go tuition plan also offers a bite-sized approach to funding the degree.

Can Californians Improve Career Opportunities and Earnings With a BSN?

California residents who opt for an out-of-state online RN to BSN nursing program can benefit from more than tuition cost savings. The following are additional advantages of a BSN:

• More career opportunities. A BSN degree is increasingly the preferred qualification for many healthcare employers, reports the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). Graduates of UMFK’s online RN to BSN program may have a broader range of career opportunities, including leadership and specialty roles. The bachelor’s degree is also vital for nurses interested in going on to advanced practice roles like nurse practitioner.
• Increased earning potential. The growing demand for BSN-prepared nurses may translate to higher earning potential. While California is already one of the top-paying states for nurses, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), BSN-prepared nurses can earn about 40% more than nurses with an associate degree, notes Indeed.

An Online RN to BSN Program for Working Nurses

Working nurses may hesitate to pursue more education since it can be challenging to balance the additional commitment. However, UMFK’s convenient online format allows students the flexibility to learn from anywhere without juggling visits to campus. California residents graduating from UMFK’s program can still maintain licensure through the California Board of Registered Nursing if they meet the other requirements.

Other online degree benefits for working nurses include:

• Accelerated timeline. Students can complete UMFK’s program in as few as ten months, so the program can be an efficient option for working nurses to advance their education and career prospects. This shorter duration allows students to start reaping the benefits of a BSN sooner than in traditional programs, where completion can take several years.
• Comprehensive curriculum. The BSN program at UMFK provides students with a well-rounded education in nursing, including courses in leadership, community health, evidence-based practice, and nursing informatics. This diverse knowledge base equips graduates with broad skills they can apply in various healthcare settings, making BSN-prepared RNs highly adaptable and competitive in the job market.
• CCNE accreditation. UMFK’s nursing program has national certification from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Graduates can trust the quality of the curriculum and that they will develop current, in-demand competencies that translate well to employers across the country.

UMFK’s online RN to BSN program offers an affordable, flexible, and accelerated pathway for California nurses to advance their education and careers. With the rising demand for BSN-prepared nurses in California and the U.S., the program’s convenient format can help students get the same level of education as their in-state peers at a lower cost and open doors to better job opportunities.

Learn more about UMFK’s RN to BSN online program.

Sources:

• CalMatters: California needs thousands of nurses, but leaders can’t agree on how to fill jobs
• American Association of Colleges of Nursing: New Graduate Employment Data
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2022 – 29-1141 Registered Nurses
• Indeed: How Much Does a Degree Increase Your Earnings?

While the human immune system is an integral part of overall health, certain events can elevate its importance in popular discourse. For example, during cold and flu season. Or, as we all know, the COVID-19 pandemic.

There are several “products” touted to improve immunity — but which ones actually work (if any)? Nurses are an excellent resource to consult. As critical healthcare providers, nurses understand how to bolster this defense system, especially given the emergence of new infections and diseases. In programs like the online Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK), nurses can advance their education and strengthen their skills and knowledge to improve patients’ immune health.

What Exactly Is the Immune System?

The immune system is a complex network of tissues, cells, organs, and the substances they produce. It is a remarkable and intricate system that protects against disease-causing microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. This system recognizes foreign substances or microbes entering the body and produces specific defenses to eliminate these invaders.

The immune system comprises two interrelated parts, “the innate, (general) immune system and the adaptive (specialized) immune system,” which perform the following functions:

• The innate immune system provides the first line of defense against pathogens. It includes physical barriers such as the skin and mucous membranes, chemical barriers like stomach acid and enzymes in tears and sweat, and various immune cells. These include phagocytes that engulf and destroy invaders and natural killer cells that recognize and kill certain diseased cells.
• The adaptive immune system, also known as the acquired immune system, comes into play if the innate immune defenses fail to eliminate the invading pathogen. This system is highly specialized and can remember past infections. Such a memory allows the immune system to respond quickly and efficiently to subsequent encounters with the same pathogen.

The immune system is finely tuned to distinguish between self and non-self substances. However, when this system malfunctions, it can lead to various disorders. For instance, if the immune system fails to recognize and combat a pathogen, it can lead to infectious diseases. Conversely, if it overreacts or targets the body’s cells, it can lead to allergic reactions and autoimmune diseases.

What Could Go Wrong (or Right)?

Numerous factors can influence the immune system’s efficiency, from diet and exercise to stress levels and sleep quality. However, there is no definitive way to “boost” the immune system quickly.

A balanced approach focusing on overall wellness is the most effective path to immune health. Nurses can guide patients and communities towards healthier habits, fostering more robust immune systems and, by extension, healthier individuals.

Tips to Optimize Immune Health

A balanced diet plays a vital role in maintaining immune health. According to the CDC, diets rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats provide the necessary nutrients for the immune system to function optimally. Nurses can encourage patients to incorporate these elements into their daily diet, potentially reducing the risk of infections.

Exercise also plays a crucial role in immune health. Regular physical activity can improve cardiovascular health, lower blood pressure, help control body weight, and protect against many diseases. Nurses can provide personalized exercise recommendations to patients based on their health status and lifestyle.

Adequate sleep and stress management are additional critical components of immune health. Lack of sleep and high stress levels can suppress immune functions, leaving individuals more susceptible to infections. Through their education and training, nurses can equip patients with techniques to manage stress and improve sleep quality — such as mindfulness and good sleep hygiene.

Further, vaccines are a significant component of public health and immune health. Vaccines train the immune system to fight specific pathogens, significantly reducing the risk of severe disease. Nurses play a crucial role in educating patients about the importance of immunization and dispelling vaccine myths.

Beyond the Bedside: UMFK’s Online RN to BSN Program

The role of a nurse extends beyond the hospital ward. Nurses are educators, community health advocates, and crucial components of public health infrastructure. In their positions, they can guide patients and communities to make healthier choices, leading to improved immune function and overall health.

For instance, nurses in UMFK’s online RN to BSN program engage in courses such as Promoting Healthy Communities. Here, they learn about the importance of community health initiatives, including immunization programs, public health education, and advocating for health equity policies.

The Health Promotions course emphasizes promoting good health practices among patients and community members. The course explores the “use of evidence-based practice and prominent nursing theories” to help nurses develop “practical and relevant interventions for persons from different socioeconomic, cultural and social backgrounds.” This is important, as many individuals have limited access to care and would benefit from preventative measures to protect their immune health.

Based on preference and flexibility, students can complete this online program in as few as ten months. This allows motivated RNs to quickly progress to nursing positions requiring more expertise, creating opportunities for higher pay and greater community influence and health outcomes.

Learn more about UMFK’s online RN to BSN program.

Sources:

• NIH National Library of Medicine: The innate and adaptive immune systems
• CDC: Six Tips to Enhance Immunity
• American Nurses Association: Nurse Education

Health policy affects every aspect of care delivery. It has a particularly poignant impact on both the employees in the healthcare field and the patients who need and receive care. Understanding health policy — the processes, motivations, and potential new legislation coming down the pike — benefits nursing professionals and their patients in more ways than one.

The online Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program from the University of Maine at Fort Kent helps graduates dive into the health policies that inform today’s nursing practice. Graduates of the program will be equipped to educate patients on treatment options, advocate for certain groups, impact state and federal change, and grow into leadership positions.

Why Should Nurses Become More Involved in Health Policy?

No matter how you look at it, the healthcare system is complex, which makes optimizing care delivery challenging. However, nurses who understand health policy can close those care gaps and improve the system for patients and healthcare professionals alike. Specifically, nurses who stay up to date on the latest health policies can achieve the following:

• Help patients make informed decisions. Patients are often overwhelmed by the choices necessary to navigate the healthcare system, which may be further complicated by “decision fatigue.” According to an October 2021 survey by the American Psychological Association, the stress from the pandemic has made it difficult for 32% of adults to make everyday decisions, like what to wear or eat. Adults who struggle with activities of daily living are likely to become frustrated and unable to make informed care decisions without additional support and guidance. Nurses can guide patients through these tough decisions.
• Advocate for disadvantaged populations. Disadvantaged populations generally have limited access to care, resulting in worse health outcomes. While the healthcare services they need may be available in their community, individuals in vulnerable groups may not be aware of these opportunities or have the necessary transportation to reach them. Nurses can advise patients of these services and direct them to other local resources. In addition, they may volunteer or seek employment with groups that expand care access to underserved populations, such as people of color and impoverished children.
• Become active on the local and national stage. Because nurses are frequently the most direct line of contact for patients throughout the care cycle, they get to know the most pressing issues affecting various groups. Nurses can recommend guidelines, policies, and new preventive care programs to improve equitable access to care. They can suggest these changes within their facilities and make their voices heard within local, state, and national institutions. By joining professional associations or boards, attending community meetings, and pursuing guest speakerships, nurses can draw attention to critical issues.
• Step into leadership roles. The Institute of Medicine’s 2010 Future of Nursing report called on nurses to advance their educations to meet the complex health needs of an older population and develop the skills to step into leadership roles. Now called the National Academy of Medicine, the organization has a recent 2020-2030 report that expounded on those suggestions by encouraging nurses to take the lead on health equity initiatives. Nurses in leadership can have tremendous influence over modernizing health policy and care delivery, improving health equity and workplace culture, and mentoring and developing the next generation of nurse leaders.

Where Can Nurses Learn More About Health Policy?

The density of healthcare legislation makes it tricky for nursing professionals to feel empowered to step into this arena. However, the online RN to BSN program at the University of Maine Fort Kent emphasizes healthcare policy knowledge for its graduates and includes a Health Care Policy course and a Health Care Ethics & the Law course. The curriculum offers a contemporary overview of policies affecting care delivery and nursing practice and the ethical, social, political, cultural, and financial mechanisms at play.

Health policy is constantly evolving, but nurses who develop a fundamental understanding of the ins and outs of policy development and its many applications can foster more meaningful changes for their patients and communities.

Learn more about the University of Maine at Fort Kent’s online RN to BSN program.

Sources:

• Minority Nurse: Be the Change: NPs in Health Policy Development
• American Psychological Association: Stress and decision-making during the pandemic
• Online Journal of Issues in Nursing: Affordable Care: Harnessing the Power of Nurses
• The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health
• The Future of Nursing 2020-2030: Charting a Path to Achieve Health Equity

Every year, the flu season brings a flurry of activity and concern. Nurses must know the latest flu facts, from emerging strains to changing guidelines for the most effective treatment. The online Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at the University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK) can help nurses learn and educate patients about flu activity and prevention.

How Widespread Are Flu Illnesses?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in an average year, the flu virus infects 5%-20% of the U.S. population. More than 200,000 people are hospitalized for related complications.

The 2021-2022 season showed lower flu activity than usual, likely due to COVID-19 mitigation efforts. Flu activity in the United States is typically highest in February, but “during the 2021–22 season, influenza activity began to increase in November and remained elevated until mid-June.” While “influenza activity is decreasing and circulation during summer is typically low, remaining vigilant for influenza infections, performing testing for seasonal influenza viruses, and monitoring for novel influenza A virus infections are important.” For the 2021-2022 flu season, the CDC reported the following estimations:

• 8 million to 13 million patients with symptomatic illness
• 7 million to 6.1 million medical visits
• 82 thousand to 170 thousand hospitalizations
• 5 thousand to 14 thousand deaths

What Changes Each Flu Season?

Besides variations in the number of people affected by the flu each year, several other changes can also occur as the CDC and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) update guidelines and recommendations.

• Updated vaccines. Vaccines are updated annually to match the viruses likely to circulate. While there are generally four types of influenza — A, B, C, and D — types A and B are the most widespread. For the 2022-2023 season, Type A flu is expected to be the most prevalent, and the FDA approved alterations to Type A and B vaccine components.
• Recommended age guidelines. Recommended age guidelines may shift as new influenza vaccines enter the market. For example, the Flucelvax Quadrivalent vaccine received approval for children six months and older. Previously, children two years and older could receive the vaccine. As for patients 65 years and older, the FDA recommends the Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent, Flublok Quadrivalent recombinant flu, and Fluad Quadrivalent adjuvanted flu vaccines.
• Altered dose guidelines. Dosing changes are essential updates to consider. In previous years, children could receive pre-filled Afluria Quadrivalent flu, but this is no longer an option for the 2022-2023 season. Instead, children can receive the recommended dose from a multidose vial.

What Preventive Strategies Should Nurses Use?

Nurses play a vital role in caring for patients with flu-related symptoms. However, nurses’ work preventing the spread of the virus and educating patients about vaccinations and self-care is even more critical.

Strategies to prevent the spread of influenza include:

• Vaccinations. The flu shot is one of the most effective ways to prevent influenza. Currently, the CDC recommends flu vaccinations for all healthcare employees, patients aged six months and older, and residents of long-term care facilities. Take the time to discuss the benefits and risks of the flu shot with your patients and encourage them to share any concerns. Unless contraindicated, you should also receive the flu shot annually. It is usually offered for free by healthcare employers.
• Hand hygiene. The flu virus spreads via droplets that go airborne when infected persons talk, sneeze, or cough, leading to inhalation by others or contamination of surfaces. Therefore, practicing hand hygiene is imperative. An alcohol-based hand sanitizer is a good option when access to soap and water is limited. Discuss the importance of frequent handwashing with patients, caregivers, and visitors.
• Additional precautions. There are plenty of other ways nurses can discourage the spread of the flu virus through their actions and those of patients:
  • Stay home and avoid contact with the public, if possible, until you have been fever-free for 24 hours without using medication.
  • Frequently disinfect commonly touched surfaces (cell phones, door handles, computer keyboards, etc.).
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.

Stay Informed

Nurses regularly encounter and care for patients with flu-like symptoms, so it is wise to understand how the virus spreads and the current treatment guidelines. In addition, courses in the online RN to BSN program at UMFK, such as Promoting Health Communities, can prepare nursing professionals to help their communities adopt these practices and achieve health goals. By staying up to date on the latest information, you can better protect yourself, your patients, and the community.

Learn more about the University of Maine at Fort Kent online RN to BSN program.

Sources:

• CDC: Prevention Strategies for Seasonal Influenza in Healthcare Settings
• CDC: Influenza Activity and Composition of the 2022–23 Influenza Vaccine — United States, 2021–22 Season
• CDC: Frequently Asked Influenza (Flu) Questions: 2022-2023 Season
• CDC: Influenza (Flu) Preventive Actions
• CDC: Flu Vaccines are Important for Children
• CDC: Influenza (Flu) Treatment: What You Need to Know

Maine local Mark O’Brien admits that his higher education journey has not taken the path of least resistance.

“It’s convoluted,” he said. “I was applying to CRNA [Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist] school, which was a master’s-level program. I did not get in on the first round. I talked to the program director and asked for recommendations for getting in the following round.

“She mentioned it would be good to get my Bachelor of Science in Nursing. I got a Bachelor of Arts degree prior to going to my first nursing school, but I needed a Bachelor of Science because it became a doctoral-level program.”

O’Brien didn’t have to look far to solve the issue. He completed the online Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at the University of Maine Fort Kent (UMFK) in March 2022.

“UMFK had a structured program,” he said. “A lot of schools are transitioning more to online, but it seemed like it was already well underway with that format and had a lot of the kinks worked out.

“That made me excited about it. UMFK also has a tremendous reputation for its nursing program throughout the state. Having the security of such a reputable program remotely was a big part of why I chose it.”

O’Brien is a part-time critical care registered nurse at Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston. The online program’s flexibility made it manageable for him to earn a degree around his schedule.

“The online format was tremendous,” he said. “It worked out perfectly for me. I liked their format and frequency of classes available.

“With every other program I talked to, it didn’t seem possible to knock out my BSN within a year. UMFK had a program that made it work because of the frequency of classes offered, the flexibility, and the academic advisers.”

Seeing the Future

O’Brien is from Portland, Maine, where he grew up watching his dad work as a radiologist. He also decided to work in healthcare.

“[Charles] went to med school late in his life, so he started at 30 years old,” he said. “I was a kid, so I watched him go through all that and saw the process. Being part of a healthcare family, I was exposed to it early.

“I was developing X-rays when I was ten years old and going to work with him and hanging out. I saw different perspectives on the healthcare system. I’ve always had a proclivity to it … Here I am.”

O’Brien went across the country to the University of Denver, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in biology with minors in psychology, chemistry, and public policy and a concentration in cognitive neuroscience in June 2006. Ten years later, he earned an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) in Maine.

O’Brien enrolled at UMFK in March 2021. Health Care Policy, taught by Dr. Tanya Sleeper, was O’Brien’s favorite course in the online RN to BSN program curriculum.

“She was great and really smart, too,” he said. “Having a background with some education in that area, I liked how she presented everything and set it up. She did a good job covering all the important information.

“My advisers at UMFK were also great about working with me, getting everything lined up, and making sure that my courses were being taken at the right time. They sorted out my schedule for me, which was huge.”

Future Days

During the 12 months that O’Brien was in the online RN to BSN program, he was transitioning into a leadership position at work, making the information he learned especially applicable.

“It was a lot more relevant than I initially gave it credit for,” he said. “I already had a lot of my science requirements taken care of, so I took a lot of non-science classes to get my degree. I wasn’t sure how relatable, relevant, or necessary some of that information would be.

“I ended up using a lot of the information I learned in those classes in real life — simple communication skills, different organizational structures in a hospital, and staff structure in the building.

“It was interesting to see exactly what my hospital does and the efficiencies I could take advantage of. It was more insightful than I expected.”

With a bachelor’s degree under his belt, O’Brien has been accepted and will start CRNA school at the University of New England in August 2022. He and his wife, Bree, have a daughter, Riley (2), and another child on the way, so he is glad that the latest phase of his higher education journey guided him to UMFK.

“My family and friends were a little confused because I already had a bachelor’s degree,” he said. “I am in a weird situation. I couldn’t apply to the doctorate-level program without a BSN.

“It was a convoluted yet necessary step for me, but it worked out great. The degree has already opened some opportunities. It was also affordable. It was a win-win situation.”

Learn more about UMFK’s online RN to BSN program.

Two universities partner together to provide a robust, seamless program for nurses to complete their educations. While a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is becoming the new “normal” for registered nurses (RNs), a path to earning an advanced degree is becoming increasingly important. Students can achieve both of these educational goals with the two-university partnership, starting with the University of Main at Fort Kent (UMFK) online RN to BSN program. Then, BSN-prepared nurses complete their MS in Nursing degree at The University of Southern Maine (USM) with six fewer credits through one of USM’s two RN to MS in Nursing programs in Nursing Education and Nursing Administration/Leadership.

Both programs incorporate evidence-based practice (EBP) as a core foundation for improving patient outcomes. Not only is EBP critical for patient care and population health and essential for building nurse resilience, but EBP practice guidelines also help nurses stay updated with research, information, healthcare trends, and changes. Another goal is to reduce burnout and improve the clinical experiences of nurses using EBP intervention to enhance resilience.

What Are the Three Components of EBP?

EBP is a lifelong problem-solving approach in healthcare that integrates a three-pronged system leveraging current evidence, clinical expertise, and patient values and preferences.

EBP = Best Research Evidence + Clinical Expertise + Patient Input

• Best Research Evidence. The best available research comes from leading peer-reviewed journals and clinically relevant publications. In addition, since healthcare is constantly changing, nurses can explore unpublished abstract posters, podium presentations, or best practice information. For example, ginger is often an effective intervention for nausea, yet no extensive, well-designed randomized control studies or meta-analyses exist. BSN and MS in Nursing degrees help nurses learn effective strategies for finding, evaluating, and disseminating research.
• Clinical Expertise. Clinical expertise refers to education, experience, and skills. Clinical nursing experience and academic education help nurses make informed patient-care decisions. Further nursing education, starting with a BSN degree, can prepare professionals to evaluate guidelines better and critically appraise recommendations.
• Patient Input. EBP aims to individualize patient care by incorporating their personal preferences and values. Nurses must assess patient perceptions, barriers, and overall expectations. Exploring cultural or ethnic considerations, health literacy levels, and gender inclusivity encourages personalized care — another critical component of a BSN curriculum.

What Are Examples of Evidence-Based Practice?

There are numerous examples of EBP used to improve population health, patient outcomes, and nurse resilience to prevent burnout. For example, mindfulness-based interventions can enhance the psychological well-being of nurses and patients. These two examples demonstrate the power of nursing interventions in improving patient outcomes.

Population Health Example

One article in the Journal of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (JAANP) proves how EBP increased influenza (flu) vaccinations by 597%. Nurse practitioners were concerned about the low flu vaccination rate (4-15%) for their uninsured patients at a Southeast Florida clinic. Even though the vaccine was free, vaccination rates were far below the national recommendation of 70%.

Through the EBP process, they first searched the literature, assessed barriers and patient concerns, and explored workflow patterns and communication efforts. For example, common reasons for patients’ refusal of the vaccine were fear of side effects or contracting the virus. Then, they bundled their interventions to include mass communication, leadership, improved workflow, and improved access. As a result, they raised their flu immunization rate to 39%, exceeding rates for the state of Florida (31.9%).

Inpatient Care Example

A team of inpatient surgical oncology nurses at a sizeable NCI-designated cancer center looked for a simple, non-invasive, and inexpensive intervention to prevent post-operative ileus (POI). A POI after abdominal surgery for patients with cancer can occur in up to one-third of patients, leading to significant pain and suffering. In addition, the cost of one episode can be up to $15,000.

EBP empowers nurses to be change agents to transform healthcare. By using evidence-based or clinical practice guidelines and understanding different levels of evidence, nurses can ensure that patients receive the best possible care. A clear path for nurses to advance their education — first through an RN to BSN program — helps nurses pursue an advanced degree, fast-track their careers, and meet the changing face of healthcare.

Learn more about the University of Maine Fort Kent’s online RN to BSN program.

Sources:

• JAANP: Evidence-based interventions cause multifold increase of influenza immunization rates in a free clinic
• Oncology Nursing News: Gum Chewing Helps Prevent Intestinal Blockages in Oncology Patients After Abdominal Surgery

Nurses must routinely deliver high-quality patient-centered care, often under time constraints or with a distressed patient. As staffing shortages increase and nurse-to-patient ratios grow, nurses must assume more responsibility, negatively affecting the efficient delivery of care.

Although medical technologies are not a complete solution to these problems, they offer nurses a support system that improves patient care. From streamlining communication to reducing avoidable harm incidents, here are four medical technologies that are transforming nursing:

1 – Mobile Workstations

Nursing is an on-the-go profession, so it’s no question healthcare providers have used portable monitors and carts for decades. However, the latest generation of mobile workstations maximizes functionality and flexibility for an increasingly fast-paced environment. “These machines mobilize equipment, medicines, and health records for nurses to access at the patient’s bedside,” says HealthTech Magazine. “And the new carts are lightweight, economic [sic], and more easily maneuverable.”

Well-stocked mobile workstations streamline workflows, allowing nurses to move more seamlessly between patients and tasks. In addition, nurses can document in real-time at the patient’s bedside, which substantially benefits documentation accuracy and ensures data is readily available to all healthcare providers.

2 – Predictive Analytics and Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence, or AI, is expanding the realm of possibility in healthcare. It is not affected by fatigue or overwhelm and remains objective, even in dire circumstances. Its predictive analytics capabilities scour real-time data and identify trends. AI-based software, like PeraTrend, “scans data from patients’ medical records to monitor small changes in their condition to spot early signs of the life-threatening complication,” says LinkedIn News.

According to a September 2019 article in the journal Nursing Management, AI is most effective when nurses “learn how to integrate AI results into evidence-based practice while balancing that information with wisdom gained through nursing experience.” Finding this balance is crucial and an essential learning outcome for graduates of the Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at the University of Maine at Fort Kent.

3 – Telehealth and Remote Patient Monitoring

The pandemic has underscored the importance of remaining connected to patients when in-person visits are not feasible. The widespread use of smartphones means nurses have more ways to stay in touch and gather relevant information. Helpful telehealth systems include phone and video calls, emails, texts, patient portals, and mobile apps. Wearable devices, like fitness trackers and continuous glucose monitors, upload vitals directly to a mobile app for review by a nurse or physician.

Remote monitoring collects a bevy of data across time instead of the small snapshot obtained during a brief face-to-face appointment. This type of close monitoring detects changes in a patient’s condition earlier, meaning providers can adjust patients’ treatment plans accordingly — sometimes daily or even hourly.

4 – Centralized Command Centers

Hospitals frequently struggle with capacity issues given the COVID-19 pandemic and an older population that requires more healthcare services. As a result, more facilities are adopting centralized command centers to manage beds and incoming transfers and decrease the wait times during transitions in care. This software-enabled technology uses AI’s predictive analytics to create a central data repository to coordinate care across departments and facilities within a hospital system.

“Custom-built dashboards help align scheduling and screenings and enable nurses to prioritize care and treat the sickest patients first,” says HealthTech Magazine. Command centers may also include a plan of care, discharge, and post-acute care information so that nurses improve their management of all aspects of patient care.

Medical technologies have certainly evolved and are likely to become an even more significant complement to nursing care. Nurses who adapt to emerging software and platforms can improve communication with patients and colleagues, streamline workflows, and enhance patient safety.

Learn more about the University of Maine at Fort Kent’s online RN to BSN program.

Sources:

• HealthTech Magazine: 5 Tech Trends Changing the Field of Nursing
• LinkedIn News: Artificial intelligence could completely transform patient care. So why are nurses so skeptical about it?
• Nursing Management: How Artificial Intelligence is Changing Nursing

As a nurse on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic, Zachary Falconer hit “pause” on life outside of family and work. He chose to go back to school.

“I had been a nurse for two years and decided it was time to finish my bachelor’s degree. Universities moving to online coursework offered the perfect flexibility for my schedule,” he said.

Falconer is a student in the Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) online program at the University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK).

“Hopefully, in the next year and a half, I can complete the program. I take one or two classes at a time right now which seems to work well while working full time and wanting to spend time with my wife and two children,” he said.

Finding Love

Falconer received a bachelor’s degree in graphic design in 2008. He went on to pursue a career in healthcare, later earning his EMT license. He found a job in Baystate Medical Center’s ICU, where he worked as a patient care technician. There, he met the person who would become his wife.

After nine years in that role, Falconer decided he was ready to grow into a new job at the hospital. He started taking prerequisite credits for a local nursing program. He completed his Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) while still working at the hospital and welcoming a newborn. He then transitioned into a position as a nurse in the medical-surgical and neuro ICU. His recent acceptance into UMFK’s RN to BSN online program was timely.

“Working as a nurse in the same department where I had been a patient care tech has been a big transition with much bigger responsibilities, but it’s been good so far. I’m learning a lot every day and getting more confident in my role,” he said.

So Far, So Good

Falconer works three 12-hour shifts weekly to have more time at home with his wife and young children: Isaac (3) and Asher (9 months).

“Our hospital pushes for associate degree nurses to obtain their bachelor’s. With Magnet status, they push for the advancement of their nurses, but that wasn’t really my pressure,” he said. “Going back to school was always something I wanted to do.”

The hospital he works for provides tuition reimbursement, which has been very helpful to Falconer, who recently completed the Holistic Health Assessment with Lab course through UMFK.

“I really enjoyed how in-depth this course went week by week, covering a different body system to assess on a patient,” he said. “I applied the concepts immediately at work.”

Falconer also found navigating the online learning format easier than expected. He was impressed by the timely feedback from his advisor and instructors.

“The program that UMFK uses for online coursework (Brightspace) is user-friendly and very visually pleasant, and the support from the staff is great. They have all been eager to help.

“My wife was part of the last class that I took, serving as my patient. The final project was a head-to-toe assessment, which I had to videotape,” he explained. “She seemed to enjoy her role, and I appreciated the time and effort she invested.”

Helping Professional

Choosing a career was initially challenging for Falconer, but life experience pointed the way. His wife has been supportive from the beginning.

“I’m good with people, and I always care about helping them. Working so many years as a patient care tech allowed me to absorb some of what nursing was all about,” he said.

A family of helpers also influenced Falconer. His mom is a labor and delivery nurse who also returned to school to further her education. His older brother works as a firefighter, his younger brother serves as an EMT, and his father is a plumber.

“My dad isn’t in the medical field, but he has still been influential. He owns his own business and built his own house. He’s just a very hardworking person and role model,” Falconer said. “I’m grateful to have such admirable parents.”

While Falconer enjoys clinical care, he aspires to one day serve in an administrative role or one where he can work from home and spend more time with family.

Post-Pandemic World

With a few courses in the online RN to BSN program under his belt, Falconer feels more confident treating COVID-positive patients as vaccines are rolled out and he continues to develop his skill set.

“Initially, I was more scared about potentially bringing the virus home to my family, even with all the PPE. The volume of COVID-19 patients was high, but that’s changed, and the intimidation factor is much less going into these rooms after being vaccinated,” he said. “I feel much more comfortable, but going through a pandemic has been hard.”

In his free time, Falconer enjoys playing volleyball with friends, going to the movies, and spending time at home with his family.

He and his wife were both approved for Massachusetts Paid Family Leave, which allows them to take a shift off per week until their son’s first birthday.

“With an extra day off per week, I decided to take an extra class,” he said of his desire to complete the program more quickly. “I’m lucky to have found the University of Maine at Fort Kent. I did the research to find the best university where I could complete my degree online, and I’m happy with my experience so far.”

Learn more about UMFK’s online RN to BSN program.

The healthcare system continues to grow more complicated, requiring more education for all nurses. An online Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program represents a key step on that journey, as many healthcare facilities now require a BSN-prepared workforce to attain the highly regarded Magnet status.

These changes are noteworthy given the ongoing nursing shortage across the United States and the world, as demand for healthcare professionals has struggled to keep up with a growing number of vacant positions. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the registered nurse job category will add 1.8 million openings between 2019 and 2029. Maine’s healthcare system is also prone to these staffing issues.

The University of Southern Maine, in conjunction with the University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK), offers an online RN to Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program, allowing nurses to earn two degrees — a BSN and an MS in Nursing — and gain the academic benefits of two universities. Completing BSN requirements through UMFK’s online RN to BSN program prepares students to continue without a hitch in USM’s online RN to MS in Nursing program in either the Nursing Education track or the Nursing Administration and Leadership track.

How Does a BSN Enhance Patient Care?

The online RN to BSN program from UMFK is ideal for nurses requiring a flexible schedule to attain additional credentials. Offering a foundational set of courses, the program helps graduates gain intensive clinical reasoning skills to enhance the culture of safety wherever their career takes them. Experienced nurses will expand their knowledge base as they grow more familiar with evidence-based practice (EBP).

Research has shown that EBP improves patient care across the board while reducing many of the factors that cause nurses to burn out. As EBP has become crucial to healthcare operations, facilities have seen a decline in costs and an increase in overall satisfaction for patients, families, and caregivers alike.

The BSN curriculum also incorporates general education courses that foster crucial soft skills proven to benefit interpersonal communication. The more nurses understand the world in which they live, developed through arts and history courses, the more successful they will be at treating their patients rather than just their illnesses.

Building Better Nurses

The skills gained in UMFK’s RN to BSN curriculum prepare students for further education with graduate-level coursework through USM. Students take coursework designed to continuously build their knowledge from the undergraduate to graduate levels, culminating in a Master of Science in Nursing with specializations in either Nursing Education or Administration and Leadership.

Optimal for active nurses dealing with new requirements and young nurses who aspire to enter leadership roles, this shared program opens the door for clinical practitioners at all points in their careers to add value and extend their future opportunities. Faculty from both campuses designed the coursework to expedite growth within the nursing population.

“The faculty from UMFK and USM worked together for a year to scrutinize the content and syllabi from all of our baccalaureate and graduate courses to identify any areas of redundancy, areas to emphasize, and developed a way to share our courses and credits to maximize student learning while minimizing repetition of content,” explained Dr. Erin Soucy, Dean of Allied Health, Behavioral Science, and Nursing at UMFK.

A New Generation of Nurse Educators and Leaders

The graduate portion of the coursework adds highly marketable skills to those initiated by the BSN, transforming assessment and treatment techniques into a complex set of abilities focused on team management. While not always required for management positions, the Master of Science in Nursing curriculum allows nurses to have an even greater impact on the patients in their care and the broader community they serve.

An advanced nursing program prepares graduates for doctoral study and further professional development, increasing earning power and expanding personal growth, according to NurseJournal.

The unified RN to MS in Nursing program allows students to grow their salary potential significantly while saving time and money along the way. Whether pursuing the Administration and Leadership or Nursing Education specialization, students have a rare opportunity to receive a CCNE-accredited MS in Nursing degree in as few as two years.

For University of Southern Maine Nursing faculty member Dr. Linda Samia, the program plays a crucial role in combating the ongoing shortage. It will further bolster the ranks of nurse educators and other leaders necessary to develop the next generation of nurses.

“[There is] strong market demand for nurse educators and nurse administrators given the age and impending retirements of nurses in both specialties,” said Dr. Samia. “We wanted to fast-track educational opportunities for nurses to strengthen the leadership ranks in the profession.”

Learn more about UMFK’s online RN to BSN program.

Sources:

• American Association of Colleges of Nursing:
  • The History of Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing Education and Practice
  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • ANCC Magnet Recognition Program
• Danville Register & Bee: Why Nurses Need Liberal Arts
• NurseJournal:
  • 25 Reasons to Get a Master’s in Nursing
  • The U.S. Nursing Shortage: A State-by-State Breakdown
• University of Southern Maine:
  • What Maine’s Nursing Shortage Means to You [https://online.usm.maine.edu/articles/nursing/maine-nursing-shortage.aspx – link no longer available]
  • Why Get an MSN? [https://online.usm.maine.edu/articles/nursing/why-get-an-msn.aspx – link no longer available]

Nursing is an incredibly rewarding career, but it is also a mentally, emotionally, and physically taxing one. Effective coping strategies are essential to manage the stressors and prevent nurse burnout.

Hospitals and healthcare facilities are experiencing widespread staffing shortages partly due to the growing number of retiring nurses and admissions caps in nursing degree programs. Emerging and unprecedented issues, like the COVID-19 pandemic and an aging Baby Boomer population requiring more complex care of multiple comorbidities, have further strained the system and nurses.

Burnout has serious detrimental effects on the health of an individual and an organization, including depression, job dissatisfaction, adverse patient outcomes, and staffing turnover. Nurses should be aware of their risk of developing burnout. Adopting strategies — like those listed below — can help them prevent and manage it successfully.

Use the Buddy System

When it feels like you are the only one going through something, it is difficult to see past your current struggles or predicament. Simply venting and talking through the day’s challenges with someone who has had similar experiences is an effective stress buster. You can connect with a nursing colleague in several places — at work, through social media and online nursing forums, or even with classmates from an RN to BSN program.

Find a Hobby

If you find yourself becoming preoccupied with work to the extent that it spills over into your personal life, you need to figure out a way to clear your mind and create better work-life boundaries. Finding a hobby that fuels you provides a much-needed mental break and a more defined plan for your downtime. Whether it is yoga, building model airplanes, or cooking, participating in a hobby can improve your mental and physical health and your work performance.

Commit to a Self-Care Routine

There really is no substitute for adequate self-care. It is so vitally important that ANA’s Code of Ethics for Nurses With Interpretive Statements requires a commitment to the “promotion of personal health, safety, and well-being.” Choosing fresh and healthy foods, getting adequate sleep, tending to spiritual or religious needs, spending time with friends and family, and moving and meditating daily provide critical support for your mind and body. If establishing an entire routine seems overwhelming, try incorporating a few five-minute breaks into your day. Use this time to do something restorative, such as performing deep breathing exercises, journaling, or watching a funny video.

Participate in Employer Programs

Because burnout is such a prevalent issue, many employers offer related programs and integrated support services for nurses. These often include mental health counseling through an employee assistance program (EAP) or another initiative unique to your workplace. An example of the latter is the 45-second pause, where nurses take a little time to process a patient’s death or other stressful event. Resilience in Stressful Events (RISE) teams help staff process traumatic workplace events through debriefing.

Restore Your Passion

If you have been in nursing for a while, you may have lost some of the passion that first ignited your interest in the profession. Alternatively, your interests may have shifted. Do a gut check now and then about what is going well, what is not, and how your career matches your vision. Then, plan to get back on track and restore your passion. You may decide to pursue higher education so you can seek a promotion. You may find that simply changing shifts or joining a workplace committee is the best solution.

Nurses have a duty to care for and promote health among patients and themselves. By incorporating targeted strategies and seeking support, nurses can prevent burnout and its undesirable consequences.

Learn more about the University of Maine at Fort Kent’s online RN to BSN program.

Sources:

• American Counseling Association: Identifying and Overcoming Burnout: Essential Practices for Counselors
• American Nurses Association: Code of Ethics for Nurses With Interpretive Statements
• CNBC: 3 Science-Backed Reasons Having a Hobby Will Help Your Career
• Nurses on Boards Coalition: A Gold Bond to Restore Joy to Nursing: A Collaborative Exchange of Ideas to Address Burnout
• Nursing.org: Nurse Burnout