In 2011, the Institute of Medicine of the National Academies (IOM) released a report detailing recommendations for transforming the nursing profession. These recommendations were prompted by nursing shortages and the necessity to prepare nurses to meet the complex needs of an increasing patient population. As part of this initiative, a recommendation was made to increase the number of baccalaureate-prepared nurses to 80% by 2020 (IOM, 2011). As a newly graduating nurse with a BSN, this author will represent an increase in current workforce statistics in this area. Additionally, higher education has equipped this author to function more effectively in a leadership role and in the management of patient care by advancing her knowledge base regarding
