More than 160 国产主播-Ontario students enjoyed games, food, and giveaways while also learning about the wide range of services available through 奥颁鲍鈥檚 Library. 

鈥淥ur goal was to showcase the library and remind students that we鈥檙e here to help,鈥� said WCU librarian Nalini S. 鈥淪ometimes students are shy or unsure about asking questions, but events like this make it easier to connect.鈥� 

Enticing students with a prize wheel and free donuts, Nalini was joined by fellow WCU librarians Lauren M., Ka C., and Marie M., who all played a key role in welcoming students, answering questions, and guiding them toward helpful resources. Many students said they were surprised to discover just how many tools they already had at their fingertips. 

鈥淪ome students didn鈥檛 know about the Virtual Academic Resource Center or that we have dedicated tutoring services,鈥� Nalini S. explained. 鈥淥thers were surprised to learn about the wonderful databases available to help with their research and assignments.鈥� 

Accessible directly through the Canvas course menu, WCU Library site serves as the central hub for student resources, including: 

• A-to-Z Databases: Access eBooks, peer-reviewed articles, drug guides, medical information, and nursing resources.听
• APA Help Guides: Step-by-step support for formatting and citing papers.听
• Virtual Academic Resource Center (VARC): Tutoring and practice tools for writing, math, science, and nursing coursework. Includes a Nursing Course Center with:听
  • Practice exams 
  • Medical terminology help 
  • Morphology resources 
• Webinars, Tutorials, and Study Tools: Videos, flashcards, and live support to strengthen skills.听
• Nurse Academic Specialists (NAS Team): Located across campuses, including Ontario, Los Angeles, and Texas, to support nursing students in NCLEX preparation. 

Nalini S.鈥檚 advice for students is straightforward: 鈥淎lways come to the library鈥檚 website first. You鈥檙e going to find what you鈥檙e looking for. And if you can鈥檛, ask the librarian. That鈥檚 why we encourage appointments, so students can get to know their sources in more depth.鈥� 

With new events planned across other campuses, Nalini S. hopes even more students will take advantage of the library鈥檚 resources. 鈥淭here鈥檚 a lot of information, but the library is here to guide you through it all.鈥� 

The post WCU-Ontario Students Connect with Library Services at Campus Event听 appeared first on 国产主播.

These days, it seems like you can do almost anything online, from shopping to banking to streaming your favorite TV shows. But can you study dental hygiene online?

If you鈥檙e interested in becoming a dental hygienist, you won鈥檛 be able to get all the training you need from a virtual program. This patient-focused career requires a well-rounded education combining both classroom instruction and clinical practice. With practical hands-on experience, you can gain the skills and confidence you need to pursue a career in dental hygiene.

This article will walk you through everything you should know about studying dental hygiene online and the requirements to become a dental hygienist.

Can You Earn a Degree in Dental Hygiene Online?

No, you typically cannot earn a dental hygiene degree online. To become a licensed dental hygienist, you must complete a program that includes hands-on clinical training. This real-world experience can help you develop the clinical skills you will use in your future career.

For one 国产主播-Orange County graduate, clinical training gave him the confidence he needed for his future career path. Jonathon says this hands-on experience 鈥渆ngrains in you the skills and values that you need as a dental hygienist.鈥�

For those who already have an associate degree and want to further their education, there are online dental hygiene programs that result in a bachelor鈥檚 degree. However, you can only enroll in those programs if you鈥檙e already a practicing dental hygienist.

What Are the Requirements to Become a Dental Hygienist?

Dental hygienists help patients protect their oral health. As a dental hygienist, your cleaning patients鈥� teeth, taking X-rays, and offering advice on proper oral hygiene. Before you get started in this career, you will need to complete a dental hygiene program and become licensed.

Here are the typical requirements to :

1. Complete a Dental Hygiene Program

Dental hygienists need at least an associate degree, but many choose to get a bachelor鈥檚 degree because it offers more career options, according to the .

Depending on the program, it typically takes around 3 years to earn a dental hygiene degree. Some classes you may take in a dental hygiene program include:

• Medical terminology
• Anatomy
• Pharmacology
• Oral pathology
• Periodontology
• Patient education
• Dental public health

In addition to coursework, dental hygiene programs usually include laboratory and clinical practice components. This training allows you to expand on the skills you鈥檝e learned in the classroom and practice techniques under the supervision of licensed professionals.

2. Pass a National Exam

Once you鈥檝e earned a dental hygiene degree, you can sign up to take the . This written exam includes 350 multiple-choice questions about dental hygienists鈥� core responsibilities. It tests your knowledge of various concepts, including:

• Anatomic sciences
• Assessing patient characteristics
• Obtaining and interpreting radiographs
• Planning and managing dental hygiene care
• Performing periodontal procedures
• Using preventive agents
• Providing supportive treatment services
• Professional responsibility

For more information about the exam and how it鈥檚 structured, you can check out the .

3. Meet State Requirements

Every state has its own requirements for becoming a licensed dental hygienist. In most states, you need to pass a clinical examination.

For example, you must take a law and ethics examination to become a licensed dental hygienist in California. If you鈥檙e applying for jobs elsewhere, you can check with the for specific licensing requirements.

Advantages of On-Campus Dental Hygiene Programs

Dental hygienists spend their days interacting with patients and working closely with dentists. For this reason, in-person clinical training is an invaluable part of your dental hygiene education. The advantages of this instruction include:

• Hands-on training: An on-campus program gives you the opportunity to practice your newly learned skills under the direction of experienced instructors. You can get individualized, real-time feedback to build your skills and confidence.
• Access to equipment:听Many in-person programs provide access to technologically advanced equipment you鈥檒l use on the job, such as X-ray machines. You can become comfortable using these tools in real-world settings.
• Real-life preparation for licensing exams: The practical experience you gain through clinical training can help you prepare for the national and state licensing exams you鈥檒l take after graduation. Often, this training is aligned with the clinical and care-based topics you may be tested on.
• Networking opportunities: On-campus programs allow you to build relationships with experienced faculty and other students. The connections you make in school can serve you well, especially as you start your career.

Gain Real-Life Experience Through 奥颁鲍鈥檚 Dental Hygiene Program

Studying dental hygiene online might sound like a good idea, but it won鈥檛 teach you the practical skills you need to learn for this healthcare career. Completing an on-campus program with personalized instruction and hands-on training is the best way to prepare for a career in dental hygiene.

At 国产主播, our Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene (BSDH) program offers plenty of opportunities to gain real-life experience. You鈥檒l have access to a simulation lab with industry-current dental hygiene equipment, so you can practice your skills in real-world settings. As you get closer to graduation, you can begin working at our on-campus WCU Dental Hygiene Clinic, which provides free care to patients in the community who need it.

Our BSDH program offers flexible start dates at our Orange County campus, and you can earn your degree in as little as 34 months. If you鈥檙e ready to get started, schedule an information session to learn more!

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If you鈥檙e passionate about the healthcare field, but don鈥檛 feel drawn to the idea of working as a provider, healthcare administration might be the perfect fit for you. But what does a healthcare administrator do?

Healthcare administrators the behind-the-scenes details that keep systems and organizations running smoothly. This allows providers to maintain the highest standard of treatment in a variety of different settings.

Wondering if a career in healthcare administration could be right for you? Keep reading to discover more about what your day-to-day responsibilities might entail.

What Does a Healthcare Administrator Do on a Daily Basis?

Healthcare administrators are the strategic minds behind the growth and development of healthcare facilities. They are the organizational leaders facilitating collaboration, the data analysts crunching the numbers, and the directors of strategy optimizing for efficiency.

While these roles may not be patient-facing, they are just as crucial to quality care. Check out our career guide to learn more about how to become a healthcare administrator.

Daily Priorities of a Healthcare Administrator

With a wide variety of healthcare administration roles to choose from, can vary. However, a few core priorities remain true across the field. Here are some of the primary duties a healthcare administrator carries each day.

Planning and Directing

Think of a healthcare administrator as the captain of a ship, leading and navigating a fast-paced organization. Not only are these professionals in charge of crafting plans and strategies to move their team forward 鈥� they鈥檙e responsible for executing them.

Developing long-term plans and policies for improvement and growth is a daily priority. This is especially true for administrators in senior leadership and management roles, which typically require a Master of Health Administration (MHA).

Financial Oversight

From everyday financial reporting to structuring and maintaining budgets, healthcare administrators manage the billions of dollars that come through the healthcare system each year.

If you enjoy working with finances, 奥颁鲍鈥檚 Bachelor of Science in Health Administration (BSHA) program offers a finance track to help prepare students interested in becoming a financial analyst, healthcare finance manager, reimbursement specialist, or budget analyst.

Human Resources and Compliance

Healthcare administrators don鈥檛 just manage tasks, they manage people. From handling personnel issues and onboarding to ensuring legal compliance, healthcare administrators tackle the relational tasks required to keep a healthcare organization running smoothly.

Quality Control

Nowhere is quality control more crucial than within the healthcare system, where lives are at stake every day. Healthcare administrators are in charge of standardizing processes, keeping medical equipment up to date, and minimizing safety risks. They take proactive measures to ensure the highest quality standards and facilitate positive patient outcomes.

Communication and Collaboration

An organization is only as strong as the team behind it, and it鈥檚 the role of healthcare administrators to keep communication flowing smoothly at all times.

The medical field has a lot of moving parts: patients, practitioners, medical suppliers, insurance providers, and other administrators. Miscommunications cost time and money, and often compromise the quality of patient care. It鈥檚 the job of healthcare administrators to keep their teams organized, efficient, and collaborative, with all parties on the same page.

Professional Development

Healthcare is constantly evolving, requiring those working in the field to . As a healthcare administrator, discovering opportunities for professional development is key for maintaining the highest standards of both patient care and operational success.

Healthcare administrators continually seek out learning experiences and advanced training to allow their team and organization to improve and thrive.

Data Analysis

A healthcare administrator is surrounded by data, including operational costs, patient statistics, and staffing levels. They must be able to not only make sense of the data but also know what to do about it.

Healthcare administration data analysis requires high-level strategic thinking. In a data-driven landscape, analysis and execution is crucial to staying on top.

Where Can I Work as a Healthcare Administrator?

Healthcare is a wide field, and administrators find themselves with no shortage of options to choose from when determining where to work.

Obvious choices include a hospital or local medical practice, but there are a variety of unique career opportunities available, including:

• Government or military organizations
• Health department offices
• Insurance providers
• Long-term care facilities
• Mental health practices
• Nursing homes
• Outpatient care centers
• University health centers

The position you will be qualified for at any of these workplaces depends on your credentials. A BSHA degree will allow you to pursue entry-level roles, such as a health service manager. A MHA degree, on the other hand, opens up greater career options in leadership. From working as a clinical director to taking the lead as a pharmaceutical executive, the possibilities are endless.

Pursue Your Healthcare Administration Education at 国产主播

For those excited to enhance the healthcare industry through hands-on, strategic work, earning your degree in healthcare administration can pave a fulfilling path forward.

奥颁鲍鈥檚 online BSHA program is designed to provide the foundational skills needed to enter the field with confidence 鈥� and offers an Accelerated pace for students ready to hit the ground running as well as a Working Professional pace for those requiring more flexibility. BSHA students have the opportunity to specialize in strategic management or finance through 奥颁鲍鈥檚 focused tracks.

From there, students looking to advance further into leadership positions such as managerial or executive roles can enroll in 奥颁鲍鈥檚 online MHA program. Choose to specialize in areas such as:

• Informatics
• Organizational Leadership
• Project Management, or
• Public Health

Ready to get started? Request more information today to learn how you can work towards a rewarding future in healthcare administration.

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国产主播-Ontario nursing student Matthew L. was recently honored with the recognizing his curiosity, willingness to learn, and positive influence on those around him. Unaware that he had been nominated, Matthew was both surprised and humbled when he received the award.听听

Reflecting on that moment, Matthew said, 鈥淗onestly, I have no idea why I was nominated. In my head, I was just asking and answering questions to test my own knowledge. I have no problem with asking a 鈥榙umb question鈥� because I know there are others who may have the same question.鈥� 

Matthew鈥檚 journey into nursing began with his military medical training, but it wasn鈥檛 until his personal experience as a Trauma ICU patient that he truly realized his calling.  

鈥淚 remember that my nurses were always at my bedside taking care of me,鈥� he shared. 鈥淭he doctors were involved, but I saw my nurses more than anyone else. I realized that nursing was my true calling after going through my own recovery and physical therapy.鈥� 

When asked why he chose WCU-Ontario, Matthew explained, 鈥淚 have multiple friends and colleagues who went through the nursing program. WCU was always mentioned because of its advanced BSN program and high NCLEX passing rate.鈥澨�

Throughout his nursing school journey, Matthew鈥檚 favorite aspect has been applying his knowledge as an emergency department technician.  

鈥淏eing able to ask questions in class and apply them directly in the emergency department helps me better understand what鈥檚 happening to my patients,鈥� he said. 

Balancing family, work, and school has been one of Matthew鈥檚 greatest challenges.  

鈥淭he most daunting challenge for me is maintaining balance in my life,鈥� he shared. 鈥淢y son and wife are my motivation to keep pushing through the long days of studying, classes, or clinicals. I am doing this to provide for my family and show them that anything is possible.鈥� 

For students about to begin their clinicals, Matthew offers advice: 鈥淏e open-minded, always volunteer to help with tasks you鈥檙e unfamiliar with, and ask questions. You will never know everything, but staying curious will help you grow.鈥� 

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When Varduhi O. walked across the stage at the Honda Center to receive her doctor of pharmacy degree from 国产主播, the moment marked far more than academic achievement. It was the culmination of years of perseverance, resilience, and unwavering determination.听

A New Life and a New Language 

Varduhi moved to the United States from Armenia at the age of 23 鈥� without knowing a word of English. 

鈥淚t鈥檚 a really big deal for me and for my family,鈥� she said. 

As a first-generation immigrant and now the first in her family to earn a doctoral degree, Varduhi鈥檚 success is a powerful example of what鈥檚 possible through hard work and grit. 

Balancing Pharmacy School and Motherhood 

Earning a PharmD is demanding for anyone 鈥� but Varduhi did it while raising two young daughters. For her, walking the graduation stage wasn鈥檛 just a personal milestone 鈥� it was a message to her children. 

鈥淚 want them to see how hard work and commitment will help you and others live in a better way,鈥� she said. 

Overcoming Doubt with Support 

Varduhi admitted there were moments of self-doubt, especially after giving birth during her second year of pharmacy school. 

鈥淚 failed my first exam,鈥� she said. 鈥淏ut Dr. Kasan motivated me and reminded me of my strengths. I鈥檓 so glad that I never gave up.鈥� 

Her story is a reminder of how important mentorship and encouragement are in shaping student success. 

Finding Purpose in Community Pharmacy 

Today, Varduhi works at a major retail pharmacy, where she finds meaning in daily patient interactions. Though she trained in both hospital and retail settings, she found her passion aligned more with community pharmacy. 

鈥淲e are very accessible for patients,鈥� she explained. 鈥淓ven over the phone, they can call us and ask for advice.鈥� 

Looking Ahead: Blending Pharmacy with Lifestyle Coaching 

Varduhi鈥檚 long-term vision is to open a clinic-style pharmacy 鈥� one that merges traditional pharmaceutical services with wellness and lifestyle coaching. 

鈥淚 want to help people live better, healthier lives, not just through medicine, but through education and support.鈥� 

The post WCU PharmD Graduate Overcame Barriers, Looks Ahead to Community Care听 appeared first on 国产主播.

For Hilda S., earning her bachelor of science in health administration (BSHA) from 国产主播 wasn鈥檛 just a steppingstone, it was a major achievement in a life defined by determination and care for others.听

鈥淚鈥檝e been a pharmacy tech for about 10 years now,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 love what I do. I work in a clinic, an oncology center鈥� just trying to provide better patient care if I can in the middle of me trying to get my pharmacy degree.鈥� 

Hilda chose WCU for its flexibility, a key factor as she balanced two jobs, parenting, and full-time school. 

鈥淔or people who have families, who have busy schedules, it鈥檚 more convenient,鈥� she said. 鈥淵ou can do it at your pace, and you don鈥檛 have to worry about, 鈥業 have to be in class at this time.鈥� I enjoyed it.鈥� 

Her long-term plan is to enter PharmD school, ideally, at 国产主播. 

鈥淭hat鈥檚 the goal,鈥� she said. 鈥淚t was more initially just to kind of get my degree and then see where I can go from there. But I love pharmacy, and I feel like I can鈥檛 leave it.鈥� 

Even with years of healthcare experience, the program still brought challenges mostly outside the classroom. 

鈥淚t was more like my home life,鈥� she said. 鈥淭rying to balance my kids, my schoolwork. I was working two jobs, going to school full-time. But the school being online it made it a lot easier.鈥� 

Despite never having stepped on a WCU campus, support from the faculty made a lasting impression on Hilda. 

鈥淚 had a lot of instructors, even though I had never met them in person, they were there when I needed something,鈥� she said. 鈥淲hen I would get overwhelmed and stressed, they were there to ease that stress.鈥� 

Her advice to future students is direct. 

鈥淭ry to do it as early as you can,鈥� she said. 鈥淎nd just find something that you love 鈥� because if you don鈥檛 love it, then you鈥檙e not going to do well in it.鈥� 

The post WCU BSHA Grad Balanced Family, Work, and School 鈥� And Sets Her Sights on Pharmacy School听 appeared first on 国产主播.

When Sophia S. graduated in 2021, she was ready to begin her nursing career, but less than a month getting her RN license, her training would be put to the test in a way no one could have predicted. 

In November 2021, Sophia and her best friend attended the Astroworld music festival in Houston. When a sudden crowd surge turned the event into one of the deadliest concert tragedies in recent history, Sophia鈥檚 instincts as a new nurse took over. 

鈥淚 was there as a fan,鈥� she recalled, 鈥渂ut once I realized what was happening, my brain kind of just went from, 鈥極K, I鈥檓 good 鈥� now let鈥檚 go help people.鈥� I will always put other people鈥檚 needs in front of me. It鈥檚 just who I am.鈥� 

Her courage and quick action that night would later be featured in a released this summer, bringing her story to millions. 

Prepared Before She Knew It 

But the lessons she learned at 国产主播-Los Angeles were fresh in her mind. Particularly, the lessons from the simulation labs, where students practice making critical decisions under pressure. 鈥淭he simulation labs really helped me,鈥� she said. 鈥淭hey put you into scenarios where you don鈥檛 know what you鈥檙e walking into. That prepared me to stay calm and act, even outside the hospital setting.鈥� 

When the surge began, Sophia and her friend were pulled apart. Alone but surrounded by panic, she relied on her training.  

鈥淚 started triaging people in my head,鈥� she said. 鈥淵ou have to decide who needs help first, and who might still have a chance. That鈥檚 exactly what we were taught to do.鈥� 

One man in particular showed faint signs of life. Sophia focused her efforts on him, performing CPR until medical teams arrived. 鈥淭hat was always a fear in my head, that I was also going to lose this guy,鈥� she said. 鈥淏ut I didn鈥檛. He鈥檚 alive, he鈥檚 great.鈥� 

A Calling That Started Young 

Sophia鈥檚 instinct to serve others has always been a part of her. 鈥淚 think I was just born with it,鈥� she said. 鈥淓ven when I was 8 or 9 years old, I wanted to be a nurse. Helping people is innate for me.鈥� 

Choosing WCU was a natural step toward that dream. 鈥淚 chose 国产主播 because of the accelerated BSN program, the supportive faculty, and the commitment to student success. I wanted to be a nurse and start my career as fast as possible. So, what better way than to come to West Coast.” 

Finding Her Place in Nursing 

After the Astroworld tragedy, Sophia鈥檚 perspective on her career shifted. 鈥淭hat night changed me,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 don鈥檛 think I could ever do hospital nursing after what I went through. But I鈥檓 still a nurse.鈥� 

Instead, she found her calling in public health. 鈥淪erving the community brings me happiness,鈥� she explained. 鈥淧atients see someone who speaks their language, looks like them, and understands them. That gives them trust. They feel more comfortable around me. Knowing that I’m able to help someone… it brings a lot of inspiration and a lot of hope, and that makes me really happy.鈥� 

Today, Sophia continues to serve with compassion, skill, and resilience, making a difference outside of the traditional bedside setting. 

Lessons for Future Nurses 

Looking back, Sophia reflects on her experience at WCU with gratitude, both for the training that prepared her and for the resilience she discovered in herself. 鈥淎lthough it gets hard, just keep going,鈥� she said to current students. 鈥淵our future you will thank you.鈥� 

The post 鈥楲et鈥檚 Go Help People:鈥� How a WCU Nurse Saved a Life at Astroworld听 appeared first on 国产主播.

国产主播-Ontario recently created an impressive real-life simulation for nursing students, with a mass casualty event replication that provided the opportunity to test their skills and knowledge base in an experiential environment.听

Learning in Real Time听

WCU-Ontario Simulation faculty Gabriel G. wanted to use his emergency room background to create a truly unique experience for nursing students that went beyond the simulation lab setting. He collaborated with WCU-Ontario Simulation Center manager Rochelle M. to develop potential scenarios for students that are aligned with 奥颁鲍鈥檚 guidelines and curriculum standards.

鈥淲ith Gabriel鈥檚 25 years of background in ER, planning this was right up his alley,鈥� Rochelle said. 鈥淗e took on the organization of this event and we worked closely together to ensure the content was at an appropriate level for these student learners.鈥�  

From Parking Lot to Patient Care听

After reviewing the potential scenarios, the team decided to construct an automobile accident scenario in the campus parking lot that also extended into the simulation lab 鈥� working with their colleague Simulation Center Specialist Jose C., to develop a real-life replication. It was decided the best students to navigate this experience were those in 498L Integration of Nursing Practices, the culminating nursing practicum course designed to prepare students for the real work environment of an RN.

鈥淚 started my career as an EMT and loved the challenge behind it,鈥� Gabriel said. 鈥淚 wanted to give the students something that was truly different. While not everyone wants to pursue an ER career, skills like communication are developed during these experiences 鈥� which are critical to their success as healthcare professionals.鈥�

The simulation team prepared for the event with a couple of dry runs, as the associates had to leverage quite a bit of technology. Several other faculty members and support staff helped execute everything, as well. Everyone had a role to play 鈥� from doctors to accident victim patients. An instructor with a microphone even 鈥渢alked鈥� as a patient, responding to nursing students and helping create a simulation that worked in the parking lot just as it does inside the simulation lab.

Building Confidence for the Real World听

Gabriel admits the mass casualty event scenario took lots of work and creativity, but students had nothing but positive feedback to share. Several even asked when they鈥檒l be doing a similar event on campus.

鈥淲e all walked in thinking it was going to be another regular sim, not that the first group would end up in the parking lot for a mass casualty incident,鈥� said Alejandra C, a WCU-Ontario BSN student. 鈥淚t really tested us 鈥� thinking on our feet, being quick with our assessments, and identifying our next move. It was nice to have something different. This felt a lot more fast-paced, like we all had to do something new.鈥�

A 鈥楴ursing Imagineer鈥� at Work听

With some students in the parking lot and others handling or observing patients in the simulation lab, the Simulation team was able to create the full scope of a mass casualty event. Students took turns caring for patients and observing the activities both inside and outside. As a WCU alumni, Gabriel also wanted to ensure students felt safe and prepared, and prioritized their psychological safety, as well.

Due to the immense success of this event, the team is already preparing to develop similar simulations for students. The experience not only gives them a look at what it鈥檚 like to work in a hospital setting but also helps them test their knowledge in novel ways.

鈥淭he university provides such great resources for us, and it was great to leverage it,鈥� Rochelle said. 鈥淎s a former faculty member, I liked being encouraged to do new and creative things to help students learn. As a manager, I like supporting our faculty to do these types of events.鈥�

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There are many reasons registered nurses (RNs) make the transition to physician assistant (PA) roles. Whether you鈥檙e looking for greater autonomy in your clinical responsibilities, more traditional work hours, or higher levels of compensation, the switch could be helpful for achieving new career goals.

Transitioning from an RN to a PA can be a natural transition considering that both roles focus on direct patient care and can be carried out across a diverse range of healthcare settings. Both types of professionals play an essential role in helping patients maintain optimal health and wellness 鈥� but the key difference is the scope of their practice, with PAs having a when it comes to diagnosis and treatment.

Before we dive into how an RN can become a PA, it鈥檚 important to understand the differences between the two roles.

RN vs. PA Roles: What鈥檚 the Difference?

RN roles are focused on direct patient care, handling duties such as taking and monitoring vitals, assessing and documenting patients鈥� conditions, and administering medications and treatments.

Meanwhile, PAs also perform direct patient care, but they have duties that are closer to those that a doctor can perform. Under the supervision of a physician, PAs can perform tasks such as ordering diagnostics tests, diagnosing illnesses and injuries, and prescribing medications and treatments. The amount of physician supervision that is required for a PA varies by state.

For a deeper dive into common RN and PA duties, here鈥檚 a side-by-side comparison based on information from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

may include:

• Evaluating and monitoring patients鈥� conditions
• Documenting symptoms and medical histories
• Administering medications and treatments
• Establishing patient care plans or adding information to existing plans
• Coordinating with the patient鈥檚 healthcare team, including doctors and other healthcare professionals
• Using and monitoring medical equipment
• Assisting with diagnostic tests and analyzing results
• Educating patients and their families about how to manage illness or injuries following treatment

Some registered nurses may also oversee licensed vocational nurses (also known as licensed practical nurses), nursing assistants, and/or home health aides.

may include:

• Reviewing patients鈥� medical histories
• Performing patient examinations
• Ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, such as blood tests or x-rays
• Diagnosing injuries or illnesses
• Prescribing medications
• Treating patients, such as administering immunizations, setting broken bones, or applying stitches
• Educating and advising patients and their loved ones on various healthcare issues and needs
• Evaluating and documenting the patient鈥檚 progress
• Staying up-to-date on the latest treatments to help connect patients with quality patient care
• For both RNs and PAs, their exact duties will depend on the specific healthcare setting and specialty area in which they work. A few examples of specialty areas may include family or internal medicine, pediatrics, emergency care, surgical care, oncology, and mental healthcare.
• Additionally, in rural and underserved communities, it鈥檚 common for PAs to act as primary care providers, such as in clinics where the supervising physician is only in the clinic a couple days a week.

For both RNs and PAs, their exact duties will depend on the specific healthcare setting and specialty area in which they work. A few examples of specialty areas may include family or internal medicine, pediatrics, emergency care, surgical care, oncology, and mental healthcare.

Additionally, in rural and underserved communities, it鈥檚 common for PAs to act as primary care providers, such as in clinics where the supervising physician is only in the clinic a couple days a week.

RN and PA Educational Requirements

Another big point of differentiation between an RN and a PA is the level of education that鈥檚 required for each role.

Degree requirements for registered nurses

Registered nurses typically need to complete either a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and then pass the National Council Licensure Examination for registered nurses (NCLEX-RN) in order to in their state.

A standard associate degree program takes two years while a standard bachelor鈥檚 degree program takes four years, though time to completion for a BSN or ADN can be shorter or longer depending on the program pace. For instance, 奥颁鲍鈥檚 BSN program is accelerated and can be completed in a little over 3 years. Keep in mind that you could shorten the time to completion for your bachelor鈥檚 degree if you already have an ADN or if you have enough working experience as a licensed or registered nurse.

Another big point of differentiation between an RN and a PA is the level of education that鈥檚 required for each role.

Degree requirements for registered nurses

Registered nurses typically need to complete either a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and then pass the National Council Licensure Examination for registered nurses (NCLEX-RN) in order to in their state.

Considering prerequisites and clinical experience requirements

Many physician assistant master鈥檚 programs require applicants to have bachelor鈥檚 degrees in such as biology or health sciences, or to meet certain criteria regarding coursework in the sciences. Healthcare experience may also be a requirement or a point of differentiation for program applicants

To give an example, 国产主播鈥檚 Master of Physician Assistant (MPA) programs require applicants to have completed certain prerequisite courses in the sciences and to meet a certain threshold for their cumulative biology/chemistry/physics (BCP) grade point average (3.0 or better for the California program and 2.7 or better for the Texas program).

Additionally, applicants to 奥颁鲍鈥檚 California MPA program must provide documentation showing that they completed 500 hours of observation, volunteer and/or work in a clinical setting. While the 奥颁鲍鈥檚 Texas MPA program does have this requirement, showing such experience is recommended in order to give the applicant a competitive advantage. Learn more about the admission requirements for the California MPA program and Texas MPA program at 国产主播.

Transitioning from an RN to a PA

While it is not common to see educational programs that focus on transitioning registered nurses into physical assistants, RNs who follow the next steps for education, training, and licensure can achieve their goal of becoming a PA.

If you鈥檙e a nurse with BSN, you already have a strong educational foundation in the sciences as well as professional healthcare experience that can help you stand out as a PA program candidate. You may just need to fill some gaps to ensure you meet all the requirements to apply for your desired program. And if you don鈥檛 already have a BSN, earning your bachelor鈥檚 degree can be your first step to pursuing your new career path.

Here are some steps you may need to complete if you鈥檙e a nurse who wants to apply for a PA master鈥檚 program:

• Research physician assistant master鈥檚 programs and decide which ones you want to apply to. This can help ensure you鈥檙e working toward meeting the correct criteria and prerequisites, as eligibility and admission requirements vary by program.

• Earn a bachelor鈥檚 degree in the sciences, which can include a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. A BSN can be especially ideal if you want to work as an RN for a few years to build up your experience and then study to become a physician assistant in the future. If you already have an ADN, you may have a head start.

• Complete the necessary prerequisites and maintain a high GPA in your science-based coursework. This can help ensure you meet the admission requirements for your desired program and help you stand out from other candidates. If you already completed your bachelor鈥檚 degree, you may need to take more coursework to fill any educational gaps.

• Leverage your clinical experience. As an RN, you will have the advantage of extensive direct patient experience, which can help you stand out as a PA program applicant.

Once you complete a PA program, you will need to pass the and apply for licensure in your state. Note that licensure requirements vary by state, so make sure to thoroughly research the process ahead of time.

Check out our career guide on how to become a physician assistant in California for more specifics.

Get Started on Your BSN or MPA Program

If you鈥檙e eager to get started on your education, it鈥檚 time to explore programs that can help you achieve your goals. 国产主播 offers bachelor鈥檚 and master鈥檚 programs that are designed to provide you with the comprehension curriculum and hands-on experience you need to prepare for a career as a registered nurse or physician assistant.

Below are a few things you need to know about 奥颁鲍鈥檚 programs.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

• Format:
  • On-campus
• Locations:
  • Richardson, TX (Dallas area)
  • Miami, FL
  • Los Angeles, CA
  • Ontario, CA
  • Orange County, CA
• Duration:
  • 39 months at the accelerated pace (all campuses)
  • 44 months at the evening and weekend pace (Miami campus only)
  • 54 months at the working professional pace (Miami campus only)

WCU also offers an LPN to BSN program, LVN to BSN program, and an RN to BSN program for those who are interested in using their nursing experience toward their bachelor鈥檚 degree.

Master of Physician Assistant

• Locations:
  • Richardson, TX (Dallas area)
  • Los Angeles, CA
• Format:
  • Hybrid in California (combining online and in-person learning)
  • On-campus in Texas
• Duration: 24 months

With on-campus simulation labs, clinical rotations, and help preparing for the NCLEX and PANCE, you have access to the support you need to thrive in your educational journey. Schedule an info session today to learn more about WCU.

The post RN to PA: Transitioning From Registered Nurse to Physician Assistant appeared first on 国产主播.

After years of determination, late nights, and relentless studying, Jordyn S. looked back on her nursing school journey, with pride, perspective, and an unshakable belief that she made the right choice 鈥� both in her career path and her school. 

鈥淭he experience here in Miami has been an absolute roller coaster,鈥� Jordyn said, reflecting on the intensity of nursing school. 鈥淏y far, nursing school has been the hardest thing I鈥檝e ever done in my life, which is expected.鈥� 

Despite the challenges, she spoke highly of WCU and how the program shaped her professionally and personally. With clinical training, simulation labs, and academic support, she feels more than prepared to take on the next phase of her nursing career. 

鈥淭he reason I鈥檓 here is because of that,鈥� she stated. 鈥淜nowing that I鈥檓 going to get to pursue a career doing something that I鈥檓 extremely passionate about 鈥� that is the thing that reminds me it鈥檚 worth it.鈥� 

Throughout the ups and downs, the WCU community played a significant role in keeping her grounded. She described moments of doubt and stress but also emphasized the importance of trusting the journey. 

鈥淭here鈥檚 a reason that I woke up one morning and said, 鈥業鈥檓 going to pack my car up today and move to Miami.鈥� So I鈥檓 glad I did it,鈥� she said. The decision to relocate wasn鈥檛 easy, but it was rooted in a desire for change, growth, and opportunity. Miami became more than a backdrop 鈥� it became a turning point. 

鈥淢oving here meant starting from scratch,鈥� she said. 鈥淏ut WCU made it feel like I belonged. I felt supported, seen, and pushed to become the best version of myself.鈥� 

She also emphasized the flexibility and potential a nursing degree provides, especially when paired with the portability of RN licensure. 鈥淭hat鈥檚 the great thing about being a nurse 鈥� your RN license, you can take it with you anywhere you go. It鈥檚 not limited to the state you鈥檙e in,鈥� she said. 鈥淚f you decide to move, you still have a career that can follow you, and I think that is the most amazing part about it.鈥� 

It wasn鈥檛 just about academics for Jordyn 鈥� it was also about mindset. Comparing her timeline with friends who had already launched their careers or started families, she admitted to moments of self 鈥� comparison. But she consistently reminded herself of one key truth. 

鈥淲here I鈥檓 supposed to be is right here right now,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 have to remind myself that a lot, because that鈥檚 the truth.鈥� 

The post 鈥淓xactly Where I鈥檓 Supposed to Be:鈥� BSN Graduate Reflects on Her Journey Through Nursing School at WCU-Miami听 appeared first on 国产主播.