Title : Bridging the gap: A bottom-up educational strategy for LPN advancement to BSN
Abstract:
Background Information: The National Academy of Medicine’s Future of Nursing report set a strategic goal for an 80% BSN-prepared workforce. Despite this, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) at the bedside often face significant barriers to advancement, including financial constraints and "imposter syndrome" regarding academic rigor. While hospital administrations focus on top-down policy, there is a timely and noteworthy need for educator-led, bottom-up empowerment strategies that address the unique needs of the LPN learner.
Purpose & Significance: The purpose of this project is to implement an innovative educational intervention for hospital-based LPNs to increase their knowledge of BSN benefits and their intent to enroll in bridge programs.This project is significant because it enhances professional competence a factor directly linked to improved patient outcomes and nurse well-being while simultaneously advancing diversity within the professional nursing workforce.
Processes & Procedures (Methods): This project utilizes a one-hour interactive workshop, delivered via a virtual platform to maximize accessibility.
The intervention includes:
Evidence-Based Content: A focused review of the correlation between BSN-prepared bedside nurses and reduced patient mortality and readmission rates.
Active Learning (The "Waterfall" Activity): Participants engage in a real-time, synchronous digital activity to identify personal barriers (situational/dispositional) and crowdsource potential institutional solutions.
Pathway Navigation: Distribution of a "Resource Handout" detailing local BSN bridge programs, tuition reimbursement navigation, and flexible enrolment options.
Implementation & Recommendations: The design utilizes pre- and post-intervention surveys to measure immediate changes in knowledge and a 3-month follow-up survey to assess the intent to pursue BSN enrollment. It is recommended that nursing leadership adopt this educational model as a sustainable recruitment and retention tool. By focusing on LPN empowerment rather than administrative mandate, institutions can create a more engaged workforce that is motivated toward professional advancement and academic nursing excellence.
