What level of education should a nurse ideally have to create clinical pathways for joint replacement surgeries?

To create clinical pathways for joint replacement surgeries, a nurse ideally should have a master's degree. This level of education typically encompasses advanced nursing skills, a deeper understanding of healthcare systems, and the ability to apply evidence-based practices. Nurses with a master's degree are trained in leadership, policy development, and often have specialized knowledge in areas such as health informatics and management, which are crucial for developing comprehensive clinical pathways.

Creating clinical pathways involves not only clinical knowledge but also the ability to analyze data, integrate research findings into practice, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams—all of which are fundamental elements of graduate nursing education. Additionally, master's-prepared nurses often have roles that involve education, administration, and direct influence on clinical practice standards, which are vital in the context of developing and implementing effective clinical pathways for surgical procedures like joint replacements.