Keywords

diversity, nursing education, nursing workforce diversity, RN-BSN program, RN students

 

Authors

  1. Hawkins, Janice E. PhD, RN
  2. Wiles, Lynn L. PhD, RN, CEN
  3. Karlowicz, Karen EdD, RN
  4. Tufts, Kimberly Adams DNP, WHNP-BC, FAAN

Abstract

Increasing the number of BSN-prepared nurses at the bedside is directly linked to improved health care outcomes. However, employers are challenged to find enough BSN graduates to meet workforce demands. This article presents an educational model that uses evidence-based practices to increase enrollment, retention, and graduation rates of RN students in a BSN program (RN-BSN) in a resource limited rural community. This exemplar may equip nurse educators with strategies to adopt in their own communities.