Migración internacional de enfermeras/os de América Latina 2010-2019

463 Migración internacional de enfermeras/os de América Latina 2010-2019 Registered Nurses in the US Registered nurses typically take one of four educational paths: a bachelor degree in nursing (BSN), an associate degree in nursing (ADN), a master degree in nursing (MSN) or a diploma from an appro- ved nursing program. Programs typically take 2-4 years to complete. All programs include supervi- sed clinical experience and licensure examination upon completion. Registered nurses must have a nursing license issued by the state in which they work to practice nursing. Nursing education Nursing education programs usually include courses in basic sciences that include anatomy, phy- siology, microbiology, psychology, as well as social and behavioral sciences (e.g., psychology and human development over the lifespan). BSN degree programs, like programs in some other health care and related fields, typically take 4 years to complete; ADN degrees also typically take 4 years to complete. Diploma programs, usually offered by hospitals or medical centers, typically take 2 to 3 years to complete. MSN entry into practice is usually tailored for students who have already obtai- ned a bachelor degree in another field. MSN programs take typically 2 years to complete. In addition to science courses, bachelor and master degree programs usually include education in communica- tion, leadership, and critical thinking. A bachelor or higher degree is often necessary for administra- tive positions, research, consulting, and teaching. There are far fewer diploma programs than there are MSN, BSN, and ADN programs. Generally, li- censed graduates of any of the education programs qualify for entry-level positions as a staff nurse. However, employers, particularly hospitals, may require a bachelor degree. Registered nurses with an ADN or diploma degree may go back to school to earn a bachelor de- gree through an RN-to-BSN program. Some employers offer tuition reimbursement for bachelor and master degree programs because they recognize the value added through additional education of nurses to their health care systems. Licenses, certifications, and registrations To become licensed, registered nurses must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) (National Council of State Boards of Nursing, 2023). Other requirements for obtaining a license, such as passing a criminal background check, vary by state. Each state's board of nursing provides specific requirements. Boards of nursing assure that basic ethical standards are maintained to protect the public’s health. Each jurisdiction has a law called the Nursing Practice Act, which is enforced by each nursing regulator. The law describes: licensing qualifications, nursing titles that are allowed to be used, scope of practice (what the registered nurse is allowed to do), and actions that