Which type of nurse is educated at the undergraduate level for broad nursing practice?

The type of nurse educated at the undergraduate level for broad nursing practice is the generalist nurse. Generalist nurses typically hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, which equips them with a diverse set of skills and knowledge to provide comprehensive care across a variety of patient populations and healthcare settings. This education includes foundational courses in health sciences, nursing theory, and clinical practice, enabling generalist nurses to deliver patient-centered care effectively.

Generalist nurses are trained to work in multiple areas of healthcare, which prepares them for a wide range of nursing responsibilities. They often serve as the first point of contact for patients and may work in hospitals, clinics, community health settings, and more, addressing the varied and holistic needs of patients.

Other nursing roles such as specialist nurses and nurse practitioners typically require additional education or specialized training beyond the undergraduate level. Specialist nurses may focus on a specific area of healthcare after completing their initial nursing education, while nurse practitioners often hold advanced practice degrees that allow for a higher level of responsibility and autonomy in patient care. Registered nurses can encompass both general and specialized practices, but the definition given in the question emphasizes the broad training provided to generalist nurses at the undergraduate level.