Comparing ND And HND In Nursing And Basic Nursing
The implementation of the ND/HND in Nursing by various Nigerian colleges of Nursing was not intended to undermine basic/general nursing. Instead, it aimed to standardize nursing education and make it equivalent to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), similar to how an HND in polytechnics is equivalent to degrees in universities.
Basic Nursing Qualifies You To Be A Practicing Nurse On Graduation:
When admitted to basic nursing, you undergo a three-year training program that awards you the title of “Registered Nurse” upon completion. This qualification allows you to work as a staff nurse in hospitals, clinics, or healthcare facilities in Nigeria or abroad.
In contrast, a National Diploma (ND) in nursing is considered equivalent to basic nursing, but it does not qualify you as a nurse. The ND/HND program is designed to be completed without interruption, meaning that upon completion of the ND, you immediately progress to HND 1. You are only recognized as a nurse upon graduation as an HND holder.
HND In Nursing Holds Superiority Upon Graduation:
Opting for a college of nursing that offers ND/HND in nursing requires a four-year commitment for both phases. Upon graduation, your HND in nursing holds superiority over basic/general nursing. Whether someone with basic nursing experience has been working for years, if you are employed with an HND in nursing, you will be considered a senior staff nurse in any healthcare setting in Nigeria or abroad. Similar to a five-year degree in nursing (BSc), an HND in Nursing is superior and equivalent to it.
Basic Nursing Holders Can Pursue Direct Entry To Universities:
After completing basic nursing, you can apply for direct entry admission to any university to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. This route would require an additional four years, making the total duration of study seven years.
On the other hand, holders of National Diplomas in Nursing are currently not permitted to pursue direct entry admission to universities. This restriction is due to the uninterrupted nature of the ND/HND in nursing program, unlike other ND/HND programs in polytechnics.
Basic Nursing Does Not Qualify For NYSC Service:
Basic nursing, being equivalent to a diploma, does not qualify graduates for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). Only BSc and HND holders are eligible for NYSC mobilization. However, after completing basic nursing and becoming a registered nurse, you have the option to pursue direct entry admission to a university to obtain a BSN degree, enabling you to serve your country through NYSC.
Similarly, upon completion of the ND in Nursing, you are not eligible for NYSC. Only after completing the HND part of your studies will you qualify for NYSC service.
Conclusion:
In this brief comparison, both basic nursing and ND/HND in nursing have their merits. The choice between them depends on your personal goals and priorities.
If NYSC service is important to you, pursuing ND/HND in Nursing or direct entry admission would be suitable. If you prefer to start working as soon as possible, basic nursing would be a better option. For those aspiring to become superior nursing officers, opting for ND/HND or a BSc in nursing is recommended.
Regarding recognition abroad, both qualifications are generally recognized, subject to the preferences and requirements of the employer.
Considering these factors, I would advise choosing the ND/HND program to save time and avoid potential delays in promotions, unless you are satisfied with basic nursing or unable to pass the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) exam, which is a prerequisite for the former.
