We Don't Need No Higher Education: Why Many SNF Directors of Nursing Don't Seek BSN Degrees

​More than 70% of surveyed skilled nursing facility (SNF) directors of nursing (DONs) with associate degrees lack interest in degree advancement, do not believe a baccalaureate degree is necessary for the job, and do not believe that DONs' level of education impacts resident outcomes, according to a study published in the February 2019 issue of the Journal of Nursing Administration. The study authors suggest that workshops, webinars, or self-paced modules (with little or no cost) on topics such as critical thinking, adoption of evidence-based practice, nursing research, quality improvement science, and leadership could incentivize SNF DONs to participate in continuing education opportunities as alternatives to degree programs. The study analyzed survey responses from 74 Connecticut-based DON that aimed to understand why many directors do not seek baccalaureate-level education at rates similar to acute care nurse leaders.