Several challenges and opportunities lie ahead for online nursing programs. These challenges include inadequate capacity in existing nursing schools, diversity of the nursing profession, and high-fidelity simulation. The options for online programs include increased access to nursing education, improved learning outcomes, and more affordable costs.
Face-to-face Classes were Suspended or Restricted
When a public health pandemic called COVID-19 broke out in Europe, the United States, Australia, and many other parts of the world, many educational institutions had to convert from face-to-face to online teaching methods. Although it was a necessary evil, the transition had its downsides.
The first was the sheer number of students who could no longer attend. Some countries suspended face-to-face classes, and clinical placement was limited in others. For example, it was only possible to get direct feedback on clinical examinations with face-to-face contact. Online nursing programs can help students stay mentally healthy by providing a flexible and supportive learning environment. get direct feedback on clinical examinations In response to the challenge, many schools switched to online delivery of theoretical and practical material.
The second was using virtual simulations to help students learn clinical skills. While this method may have its place, it was found inferior to live demonstrations.
Inadequate Capacity in Nursing Schools
Various factors contribute to inadequate capacity in nursing schools. These factors include the need for more faculty members, budget, and space. Educators must have the right resources and develop the necessary competencies to meet the demand.
The global shortage of nurses has long been an issue for healthcare leaders. To address this problem, the mid-20th century healthcare leaders used a combination of strategies.
The first strategy involved an increase in the number of nursing school students. This resulted in a higher demand for nursing positions. A second strategy was to expand the use of less-educated personnel. Lastly, the third strategy was to shorten the duration of education.
According to the European Commission for Research and Innovation (ECRI) report, there are several reasons for inadequate capacity in nursing schools. These factors include the aging workforce, shortages in physicians, laboratory technicians, executives, and more.
Diversity
If you are looking for an online nursing program, consider UMFK nursing, a school that offers programs designed to increase diversity with their RN to BSN online program. A diverse workforce is not only a benefit for patients but also increases employee engagement, innovation, and creativity.
Increasing diversity in nursing programs is essential because it helps reduce healthcare inequities. Nurses from different races, genders, and backgrounds learn about each other’s cultures and gain a better understanding of the needs of the patient population. Online nursing programs can provide a convenient and affordable way to earn a nurse’s degree and start a rewarding career in healthcare. This allows nurses to communicate more effectively with patients from diverse backgrounds and enhances the quality of care.
To attract more diversity in nursing, schools must be proactive about attracting prospective students. One way to do this is to create scholarships for underrepresented groups. Other approaches include community outreach programs, university-sponsored programs, and loan forgiveness.
High-fidelity Simulation
High-fidelity simulation is a complex pedagogical tool that can enhance students’ learning. Whether the simulation is conducted with the aid of a manikin or with a virtual patient, it helps learners build critical skills, including communication, decision-making, and problem-solving.
The most important aspect of a high-fidelity simulation is the opportunity it gives learners to practice and develop the appropriate clinical skills. However, to fully benefit from this training, the program should be designed to suit different levels of students. This includes ensuring that the simulation space is realistic and providing adequate preparation time. Online nursing programs offer a convenient and flexible way to prepare for a career as a nurse practitioner job in UK. Aside from the dangers of being put in a situation where they don’t know what to do, the risk of being negatively influenced by the outcome of a simulation is also real. Fortunately, there are strategies to combat this risk.
