The Nursing profession has evolved over the years. It has become more research and science oriented. Nurses who are prepared in research and practice-based doctoral programs play important roles in the development and implementation of the science that shapes nursing practice. The DNP program has greater focus on innovative and evidence-based-practice. Therefore, DNP prepared nurses make important and significant contributions to nursing practice through the application of valid research findings (Trautman et al, 2018).
The DNP program is designed to equip nurses with critical thinking and problem skills to enable them make rational judgements. Nurses in advanced leadership roles such as DNPs should be able to make decisions that follow ethical and legal standards. The goal of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is to produce leaders in nursing. Such nurses possess the highest level of nursing expertise and work either in clinical settings or leadership roles. DNP holders are highly knowledgeable enough to influence healthcare outcomes through organizational leadership, health policy implementation, and direct patient care (LeVick, 2021).
As a future DNP, and in consonance with academics and research, I expect to serve as a steward of the nursing profession with the responsibility to foster quality nursing practice by translating research into implementation of evidence-based practice to improve community and overall national health outcomes. As a DNP prepared nurse (APRN), I will use my clinical expertise and leadership skills to address the complex issues that face patients and the present-day American Healthcare System.
In my opinion, I believe it’s about time nurses engaged in active politics so that we can have a voice in the process of enshrining health policies and practices into law. On top of all these commitments, on a personal note, I will feel satisfied and fulfilled that I have reached the pinnacle of my nursing career and self-actualization. I always desired it, but given the circumstances, and experiences I have encountered, I least expected to get this far. This has proved to me that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!
References
LeVick, D. (2021). What Is a DNP and Is It Worth It?
Trautman, D. E et al. (2018). Advancing Scholarship through Translational Research: The Role of PhD and DNP Prepared Nurses.
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