What does ADN mean in NURSING

Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) is a 2-year program aimed to prepare students with the necessary skills and knowledge to become entry-level healthcare providers. Students who pursue this degree will be able to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), allowing them to work as registered nurses.

Generally, it takes two years of full time coursework to complete an Associate Degree Nursing program. This includes classroom lectures, laboratory experience, clinical practice, and other related instruction.

Prerequisites for ADN programs typically include high school diploma or GED, completion of college prep classes in biology, anatomy and physiology, chemistry, medical terminology, psychology/sociology and nutrition or dietetics. Some programs may also require applicants to demonstrate basic health assessment skills prior to admission.

Registered nurses with an Associate Degree in nursing can find employment in hospitals, physicians' offices, extended care facilities and outpatient clinics; they can also pursue positions such as home health aides or nurse educators. The U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that the demand for registered nurses will continue to grow over the next decade.

According to BLS wage data from May 2018, registered nurses with an Associate Degree earned a median salary of around $73,300 per year nationwide; wages vary significantly depending on specialty and geographic location though.

While ADN programs offer fewer courses than bachelor’s degrees in nursing (BSNs), most RNs don’t need more education beyond their associate degrees unless they plan on going into specialized fields such as neonatal care or surgery. Obtaining an ADN also requires less financial resources when compared with BSNs and offers a quicker path into a career in nursing since it only takes two years versus four years for a BSN program.

Yes—to be successful in this type of program prospective students should have excellent communication skills both verbal and written; good problem-solving abilities; physical strength; stamina & endurance; empathy/compassion; organizational skills; leadership potential and flexibility under pressure situations/working long hours including nights & weekends if needed.