Note: This independent study module encompasses several articles from one issue of the Online Journal of Issues in Nursing.

"Licensure, Certification, and Accreditation"

by Barbara Stevens Barnum, RN, PhD, FAAN

This article provides an historical overview of the three major ways that nursing regulates the profession, its members, and their performance, i.e., licensure, certification, and accreditation. Each type of regulation mechanism is described and differences between them are explained. Current issues related to accreditation of schools of nursing are outlined.

"Issues of Accreditation: A Dean's Perspective"

by Mary S. Collins, PhD, RN

In response to Dr. Barnum's article ["Licensure, Certification and Accreditation"], this article gives a dean's perspective on accreditation of schools of nursing. Although accreditation can be an anxiety producing event, the position is taken that accreditation is needed to promote consistently high standards in nursing education. Further, accreditation must become an integral part of the daily functioning of the academic institution rather than an episodic event to result in overall continuous program improvement.

"Accreditation for the Future: A Director's Perspective"

by Sheila A. Ryan, PhD, RN, FAAN

In response to Dr. Barnum's article, this article provides another view on licensure, certification, and accreditation. Current and future issues are outlined, discussed, and relevant questions are addressed. The issues involved in accreditation will not be resolved with simplistic competition; rather, the issues demand a response bigger than current practices.

The deadline for completion of this module is Dec. 31, 2000.

Objectives

1. Describe the purpose of licensure, certification, and accreditation.
2. Analyze the need for accrediting schools of nursing.