Philosophy
The nursing faculty of the RN-BSN and the BSN program believe that nursing is a caring, professional discipline grounded in the values of safety, professionalism, patient-centered care, leadership and collaboration, evidence-based practice, and informatics. These values provide the foundation for preparing baccalaureate-prepared nurses to provide high-quality care in an increasingly complex and dynamic healthcare environment.
The faculty believe that professional nurses integrate knowledge, clinical judgment, communication, technology, and evidence to provide safe, compassionate, and patient-centered care to individuals, families, and communities across the lifespan and across diverse healthcare settings. Nursing practice requires critical thinking, sound clinical judgment, ethical decision-making, respect for human dignity, and recognition of the individual values, needs, and experiences of those receiving care.
The faculty believe that nurses are integral members and leaders of the healthcare team. Through effective communication, collaboration, leadership, and advocacy, nurses contribute to quality improvement, patient safety, improved health outcomes, and the advancement of the nursing profession. Professional nursing practice incorporates current evidence, healthcare technologies, and informatics while maintaining accountability for safe, ethical, and competent care.
The faculty believe that nursing education is a continuous and progressive process that promotes intellectual growth, professional development, clinical competence, and lifelong learning. The baccalaureate nursing curriculum builds upon foundational knowledge and experiences while preparing graduates for professional nursing practice, leadership, continued education, and advancement within the profession.
Dalton State College supports multiple educational pathways within nursing. The Department of Nursing provides opportunities for students to enter professional nursing practice through the Generic BSN pathway and for registered nurses to advance their education through the RN-BSN pathway. Together, these pathways support academic progression and prepare baccalaureate-prepared nurses to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the communities they serve.