Date of Award

Spring 4-2-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Nursing Administration and Emergency Management

Department

Nursing

College

College of Education and Health

Committee Chair

Dr. Shelly Randall

Second Committee Member

Dr. Jennifer Helms

Third Committee Member

Dr. Terri McKown

Program Director

Dr. Jennifer Helms

Dean of Graduate College

Dr. Michael Bradley

Abstract

The persistent nursing shortage across the United States, particularly in Long-Term Care (LTC) settings, has complicated the healthcare system’s ability to meet the needs of an aging population. While existing research often examines progression from Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to Registered Nurse (RN), limited research explores factors influencing progression from entry-level LTC healthcare workers to Practical Nursing (PN) licensure. This quantitative descriptive study examined the barriers and supporting factors influencing advancement toward PN licensure for Medication Assistants-Certified (MA-Cs) in Arkansas LTC facilities. A convenience sample of N=100 participated in the study. Results indicated that financial and structural barriers often prevent MA-Cs from pursuing career advancement. Results also suggested that workplace support and structured internal career pathways, such as MA-C to PN bridge programs, can reduce the impact of perceived barriers and increase the likelihood of career advancement. This study highlights the importance of organizational support strategies and calls for further research to examine outcomes of such strategies in LTC and the nursing workforce pipeline.

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