Nursing long ago expanded beyond bedside care to encompass significant leadership roles. As demand for highly skilled and adaptive nurse leaders grows, online nursing degree programs in Michigan are a smart option for nurses who aspire to lead others.
Online nursing programs, including online RN to BSN programs, offer flexible, accessible, and comprehensive education. They enable nurses to balance their professional duties while pursuing advanced education, which qualifies them for the best jobs. With more than 193,000 annual nursing jobs projected for the next decade, earning a bachelor’s degree helps a nurse stand out from the competition.
Earning a BSN prepares nurses to become a transformative force in healthcare, equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to work in complex healthcare environments.
The Need For Nurse Leadership in Healthcare
Michigan employs more than 102,000 nurses, a number expected to increase annually over the next decade. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports an average annual salary for nurses of $86,210, and nurses in Michigan also earn a solid salary that increases over time. Nationwide, the top 25% of nurses earn more than $104,000.
Online nursing programs in Michigan can help nurses attain the skills needed for leadership, which is in higher demand than ever. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing wrote that it’s important to “recognize that every well-prepared, successful nurse is a leader.” They add that this has always been the case. However, they assert that more nurses in management, administrative, and policy-making positions are critical for the future of healthcare.
Nurses are uniquely positioned at the intersection of clinical expertise and administrative oversight. Their deep understanding of patient care is key to making the best decisions that directly impact health outcomes. By guiding clinical staff and implementing evidence-based practices, nurse leaders set high standards of care.
With this knowledge, nurse leaders help shape healthcare policy and drive organizational change. They advocate for the needs and concerns of both patients and staff, influencing policy decisions that affect the entire healthcare system.
Some of the Most Important Skills For Nursing Leaders
Influential nurse leaders must possess a diverse set of skills in addition to leadership expertise essential in every industry, including good communication and teamwork skills.
Evidence-based practice: One of the most critical skills for nurses is understanding and implementing evidence-based practice. This involves critically appraising research studies, integrating clinical expertise with the best available evidence, and applying this knowledge to improve patient care.
Population and global health concepts: Another essential skill for nurse leaders is a deep understanding of population and global health concepts. This includes awareness of the social determinants of health, epidemiology, and the impact of global health trends on local healthcare systems. By comprehending these broader health issues, nurse leaders can develop strategies to address health disparities, improve community health outcomes, and advocate for public health initiatives.
Nursing policy: Nurse leaders must also have an in-depth understanding of nursing policy. This encompasses knowledge of healthcare laws, regulations, and ethical guidelines that govern nursing practice. Nurse leaders must be adept at navigating the regulatory landscape to ensure compliance and advocate for policies that enhance patient care and professional practice.
Strong management skills: Management skills are fundamental for nurse leaders. This includes resource allocation, financial management, strategic planning, and human resource management expertise. Effective nurse leaders must be able to manage budgets, optimize staffing, and lead projects that align with organizational goals. They must also possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to inspire and motivate their teams, resolve conflicts, and build collaborative relationships.
The Online RN to BSN Degree From NMU Global Campus
The online RN to BSN degree from Northern Michigan University prepares graduates to advance their nursing degrees with the flexibility of an online program. In addition to providing project-based, work-relevant clinical—which students can complete at their current workplace—the program allows nurses to continue at their current jobs while furthering their education.
Most nurses can complete the online RN to BSN program in as few as four semesters. They learn the essential skills most helpful in boosting their career, including implementing evidence-based practice and global health concepts. They also improve their leadership and management skills, making them more attractive candidates for promotion.
The optional leadership courses focus on effective communication, ethical leadership, workplace assessment, and leadership in diverse workplaces. The program is designed to give nurses the education they need not only to meet but exceed the standards of their profession.
