NURS 8002 DQ The Doctoral Degree and Professional Nursing Practice
Walden University NURS 8002 DQ The Doctoral Degree and Professional Nursing Practice-Step-By-Step Guide
This guide will demonstrate how to complete the Walden University NURS 8002 DQ The Doctoral Degree and Professional Nursing Practice assignment based on general principles of academic writing. Here, we will show you the A, B, Cs of completing an academic paper, irrespective of the instructions. After guiding you through what to do, the guide will leave one or two sample essays at the end to highlight the various sections discussed below.
How to Research and Prepare for NURS 8002 DQ The Doctoral Degree and Professional Nursing Practice
Whether one passes or fails an academic assignment such as the Walden University NURS 8002 DQ The Doctoral Degree and Professional Nursing Practice depends on the preparation done beforehand. The first thing to do once you receive an assignment is to quickly skim through the requirements. Once that is done, start going through the instructions one by one to clearly understand what the instructor wants. The most important thing here is to understand the required format—whether it is APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.
After understanding the requirements of the paper, the next phase is to gather relevant materials. The first place to start the research process is the weekly resources. Go through the resources provided in the instructions to determine which ones fit the assignment. After reviewing the provided resources, use the university library to search for additional resources. After gathering sufficient and necessary resources, you are now ready to start drafting your paper.
How to Write the Introduction for NURS 8002 DQ The Doctoral Degree and Professional Nursing Practice
The introduction for the Walden University NURS 8002 DQ The Doctoral Degree and Professional Nursing Practice is where you tell the instructor what your paper will encompass. In three to four statements, highlight the important points that will form the basis of your paper. Here, you can include statistics to show the importance of the topic you will be discussing. At the end of the introduction, write a clear purpose statement outlining what exactly will be contained in the paper. This statement will start with “The purpose of this paper…” and then proceed to outline the various sections of the instructions.
How to Write the Body for NURS 8002 DQ The Doctoral Degree and Professional Nursing Practice
After the introduction, move into the main part of the NURS 8002 DQ The Doctoral Degree and Professional Nursing Practice assignment, which is the body. Given that the paper you will be writing is not experimental, the way you organize the headings and subheadings of your paper is critically important. In some cases, you might have to use more subheadings to properly organize the assignment. The organization will depend on the rubric provided. Carefully examine the rubric, as it will contain all the detailed requirements of the assignment. Sometimes, the rubric will have information that the normal instructions lack.
Another important factor to consider at this point is how to do citations. In-text citations are fundamental as they support the arguments and points you make in the paper. At this point, the resources gathered at the beginning will come in handy. Integrating the ideas of the authors with your own will ensure that you produce a comprehensive paper. Also, follow the given citation format. In most cases, APA 7 is the preferred format for nursing assignments.
How to Write the Conclusion for NURS 8002 DQ The Doctoral Degree and Professional Nursing Practice
After completing the main sections, write the conclusion of your paper. The conclusion is a summary of the main points you made in your paper. However, you need to rewrite the points and not simply copy and paste them. By restating the points from each subheading, you will provide a nuanced overview of the assignment to the reader.
How to Format the References List for NURS 8002 DQ The Doctoral Degree and Professional Nursing Practice
The very last part of your paper involves listing the sources used in your paper. These sources should be listed in alphabetical order and double-spaced. Additionally, use a hanging indent for each source that appears in this list. Lastly, only the sources cited within the body of the paper should appear here.
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Sample Answer for NURS 8002 DQ The Doctoral Degree and Professional Nursing Practice
NURS 8002 DQ The Doctoral Degree and Professional Nursing Practice
A doctoral degree carries a certain set of expectations associated with the completion of advanced educational attainment. Earning a DNP degree is no exception. What are the expectations associated with a DNP-prepared nurse? How might these expectations differ among nursing staff without a DNP degree?
The role of a DNP-prepared nurse is multifaceted; they can serve as nurse educators, policy and legislation advocates, direct nursing care supervisors, or advanced practice nurses responsible for tracking, installing, and monitoring initiatives aimed at improving nursing and healthcare delivery. Regardless of the expectations associated with a DNP-prepared nurse, throughout your program of study, you will hone the skills necessary to enact each of these roles. Consider which role you are most excited about. What do you hope to accomplish in the realm of professional nursing practice with your DNP degree?
NURS 8002 DQ The Doctoral Degree and Professional Nursing Practice
Consider your personal reasons for pursuing a DNP degree for this Discussion. Consider the expectations of a DNP-prepared nurse, as well as how they may differ from those of a PhD-prepared nurse. Consider the DNP degree requirements, such as practicum/field experience and the completion of your Doctoral Project. Then, consider how you will demonstrate how the AACN DNP Essentials are aligned with the fulfillment of these program-of-study milestones.
To get ready:
Examine the Learning Resources and consider why you selected to pursue a DNP degree. How do you expect this degree to help you achieve your career goals?
Consider the distinctions between DNP and PhD degrees. What does this have to do with your decision to seek the DNP degree?
Examine the degree requirements for your DNP at Walden. Consider the Doctoral Project and practicum experiences in particular, as mentioned in the DNP Essentials document. Keep in mind that you will need to choose a location or locations for the completion of your DNP project and the practicum hours required for the degree. You can look through the Field Experience criteria under the Learning Resources.
- After reviewing the DNP Essentials document and the DNP Project Process Guide for the DNP project, reflect on what it means to address an organization’s needs to attend to a gap in practice or implement a practice change. What is the difference between a gap in practice and a practice change? How does your role as the DNP-prepared nurse contribute to meeting a stakeholder need?
Week 4’s third day
Post a brief explanation of the nurse’s duty with a practice doctorate. Make your point. Explain the expectations around
attaining this degree, as well as how these expectations may alter for a nurse with a different degree. Then, explain how these factors connect to your purpose for pursuing a DNP, including a brief description of how your job as a DNP-prepared nurse will satisfy a potential organization’s requirement to close a practice gap or make a practice change. Discuss your experiences addressing a gap in practice or implementing a practice change within an organization. Make your point.
By Week 4’s Day 6
Read a selection of your colleagues’ responses and respond to at least two of them on two different days, offering an additional perspective on what it means to be a nurse with a practice doctorate, offering support to the expectations associated with obtaining the degree that your colleague posted, or expanding on your colleague’s post.
NURS 8002 DQ The Doctoral Degree and Professional Nursing Practice
Note: For this Discussion, you are required to complete your initial post before you will be able to view and respond to your colleagues’ postings. Begin by clicking on the “Post to Discussion Question” link and then select “Create Thread” to complete your initial post. Remember, once you click on Submit, you cannot delete or edit your own posts, and you cannot post anonymously. Please check your post carefully before clicking on Submit!
Submission and Grading Information
Grading Criteria
To access your rubric:
Week 4 Discussion Rubric
Post by Day 3 of Week 4 and Respond by Day 6 of Week 4
To Participate in this Discussion:
Week 4 Discussion
Weeks 4–5: AACN Essentials for the Doctorally Prepared Nurse
[The AACN DNP] Essentials outline the foundational competencies that are core to all advanced practice roles, including the four nationally-recognized Advanced Practice Registered Nursing roles: nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, nurse anesthetists, and nurse midwives.
— American Association of Colleges of Nursing (2006)
What does it mean to be a DNP-prepared nurse? What core function of advanced nursing practice do you hope to practice upon completion of your DNP? How will earning a DNP enhance your nursing practice?
Questions such as these may represent some underlying consideration that led you to pursue a DNP. In your role as a DNP-prepared nurse, you will likely be called upon to perform advanced nursing practice skills that not only enhance patient care but will impact the delivery of healthcare, organizational standards, and quality improvement initiatives.
This week, you consider the role of a nurse with a practice doctorate, including the expectations associated with obtaining a DNP degree. You reflect on your personal motivations for pursuing a doctoral degree and begin to examine how your proposed Doctoral Project and practicum/field experience will align to the AACN DNP Essentials.
NURS 8002 DQ The Doctoral Degree and Professional Nursing Practice
Reference:
American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (2006). DNP essentials. https://www.aacnnursing.org/DNP/DNP-Essentials
Learning Objectives
Students will:
- Analyze the role of a nurse with a practice doctorate
- Analyze expectations associated with obtaining the DNP degree
- Analyze personal motivations for pursing a doctoral degree
- Explain the role of the DNP-prepared nurse in meeting organizational quality improvement needs
- Evaluate alignment between the AACN DNP Essentials and completion of Doctoral Projects
- Evaluate alignment between the AACN DNP Essentials and completion of a practicum/field experience
Learning Resources
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Required Readings (click to expand/reduce)
Association of Nurse Practitioners, 31(8), 447–453. https://doi.org/10.1097/JXX.0000000000000266
Document: DNP Project Process Guide (Word document)
Module 2: Professional Standards for the DNP-Prepared Nurse
Much like any other professional licensure credential, the DNP-prepared nurse must aptly demonstrate the skills and knowledge that align to the AACN DNP Essentials. These are the set of foundational competencies that will be structured and emphasized throughout a DNP degree program’s curriculum.
As a future DNP-prepared nurse, you will exemplify the DNP Essentials and the core set of competencies necessary for advanced nursing practice. Throughout your program of study, you will apply the DNP Essentials with the completion of your DNP program’s milestones, including your practicum/field experience and Doctoral Project.
What’s Happening This Module?
Module 2: Professional Standards for the DNP-Prepared Nurse is a 2-week module—Weeks 4–5 of the course—in which you analyze the role of a nurse with a practice doctorate. In the Discussion for Week 4, you will engage with your colleagues as you consider the expectations associated with earning the DNP degree and reflect on your personal motivations for pursing a doctoral degree. In the Assignment for this module, you will examine the role of the DNP-prepared nurse in meeting organizational and quality improvement needs. This is an important area of focus in that quality improvement will be the theme of your Doctoral Project. As you engage with the content for this module, you will also examine the alignment between the AACN DNP Essentials and the completion of your Doctoral Project and your practicum/field experience.
NURS 8002 DQ The Doctoral Degree and Professional Nursing Practice
| What do I have to do? | When do I have to do it? |
| Review your Learning Resources | Days 1–7, Weeks 4 and 5 |
| Discussion: The Doctoral Degree and Professional Nursing Practice | Post by Day 3 of Week 4 and respond to your colleagues by Day 6 of Week 4. |
| Assignment: Linking Areas of Focus Into Future Plans for the DNP | Submit your Assignment by Day 7 of Week 5. |
Sample Answer 3 for NURS 8002 DQ The Doctoral Degree and Professional Nursing Practice
Due to the rigorous curricula provided for doctorate-prepared advanced nurse practitioners and the clinical skills obtained, the DNP is in a perfect position for leadership and effecting change through research, making this position quite adaptable. (Falkenburg.-Olson. 2019) From the materials assigned this week, it appears that the role of the doctorate of nursing practice (DNP) is not clearly defined. (Beeber. 2019). DNPs have been observed carrying out the usual responsibilities of an APN in clinical practice, while others have been discovered in administrative positions. In one instance, it was observed that a DNP held this position and promoted fair healthcare, and in another instance, a DNP led an interdisciplinary team utilizing evidence-based practice. (Tussing. 2018)
Other positions held by DNPs include healthcare policy, executive, informatics, and community-oriented employment. Part of the rationale for designing the DNP programs was to learn how to identify gaps and acquire practice knowledge and abilities to enhance healthcare delivery (Falkenburg-Olson. 2019). This form of training would also be useful for becoming an educator, as it would enable the sharing of knowledge and the training of new DNPs to not just notice gaps but also solutions to solve problems. In one case from Tussing, a DNP educator “directed a multidisciplinary team in the development of educational tools and a staff training plan for the management of patients with infection and emerging pathogens such as Ebola Virus illness” (Tussing. 2018) As a clinical coordinator, a DNP can develop better care plans, aid with goal maintenance, and provide support for patients and their families on medical-surgical units due to the need for higher quality and longer hospital stays. It was highlighted that another DNP has worked on quality improvement programs employing evidence-based techniques. (Tussing. 2018)
Expectations linked with earning a PhD, similarities and distinctions with other levels of education The DNP is a practice-oriented degree that takes into account the clinical expertise and abilities an NP has acquired in order to prepare DNPs for leadership roles. Anticipate a doctoral project comprising scientific content and research technique as the culmination of the DNP program (AANC. 2006). While taking courses and pursuing additional education to support the final project, emphasis must be placed on learning scholarly approaches to navigate through advancing nursing practice and addressing gaps in nursing practice through the use of evidence-based bases, implementation, and evaluation. (Falkenbur-Olson. 2019) If the DNP is to be used for the purpose of becoming an educator, Hartjes suggests that educational training be examined during this process. (2019). “to critically appraise current evidence, to integrate research into practice, and to adopt quality, process, organizational, and performance measures”
“Methods of operational improvement with a favorable effect on patient outcomes and the delivery of health care” (Hartjes. 2019) Another terminal degree that can be earned is a PhD, however this is a research-oriented educational program. The PhD curriculum will emphasize theory, research, and statistics more heavily. Each program’s objectives are slightly distinct, although they are complementary. The completion of a PhD program is evidenced by a dissertation containing a comprehensive research investigation. (AANC.\s2006) The PhD focuses heavily on “creating data that can be implemented in practice to advance health care at all levels.” (Falkenburg-Olson. 2019) When you combine a PhD with an NP, you broaden the scope of your practice by possessing strong research skills and expert clinical practice that is highly effective in resolving areas of concern. “Admission requirements, program length, and graduation requirements, as well as the overall cost, vary among institutions.” (Hartjes. 2019) PhD programs primarily emphasize research, are increasingly offered online, and have smaller class sizes. Many PhD programs admit students once every semester and require the presence of a mentor. The quantity of study required during the program frequently prevents students from working outside of their education, and the program may be fairly extensive. In contrast, DNP programs utilize hybrid classrooms, allowing for a greater number of students. Admission to these programs occurs regularly throughout the year, affording students greater flexibility.
(Hartjes. 2019)
My motivation and contribution to a possible organization We are frequently asked how we intend to effect change and what we will accomplish. It is difficult for me to formulate a response. I have learnt over the past few years that if you take a step back and simply observe what is occurring, you will know where you are needed and what you need to accomplish. I’ve also realized that I am an excellent problem solver. I am not a “bandage it up” type of person. I enjoy identifying the underlying reason and constructing a solution from the bottom up. I am eager to see where earning my DNP will take me, as I believe it is the road that was meant for me. However, I have identified certain areas that require improvement. Medication mistakes that occur during facility transfers occur often.
A patient who entered the hospital on two drugs had those medications removed from their profile without explanation and other meds started. As I experience these circumstances, I am receptive to every detail. It appears to be the result of inadequate medication reconciliation, poor communication, or a lack of preparation at discharge and admission.
It is tough for me to explain how I handle problems, but I continually absorb information. I perform mental troubleshooting until I can determine a viable improvement. I am constantly observing the systems I work with and how they operate in the hopes that one day I may be able to connect the dots and offer an efficient solution. Formally, I could do a survey, potentially asking folks about their transfer process, as opposed to their transfer policy. As the questionnaire could also serve as a self-evaluation, it may actually help to resolve a portion of the problem. Frequently, self-evaluations aid persons in recognizing
its strengths and weaknesses Review of the patient’s medical records could potentially be incorporated into the evaluation of the gap in care. After completion and the establishment of a plan, it would be implemented. After that, audits of charts would have a straightforward method of evaluation. (Fiset. 2019) I do feel that a portion of these errors arise because so many individuals do not go that extra step. This is another reason why I want to become a teacher. I am aware of the number of faults I have caught with my patients alone. Many of my patients are unable to advocate for themselves; I work in mental health. My goal in being an educator is to lend practitioners a touch of humanity. To teach children to go the additional mile, as someone’s life may depend on it.
What experiences have you had addressing a practice gap or a change in practice? In my current position, I give psychiatric care to residents of skilled nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, and their homes. Many patients have been admitted to the hospital due to a lack of information or education on the part of their caregivers. There are numerous factors involved with this. I am collaborating with the education department of our hospital system to develop a program that we can offer to outside facilities and families, as well as anyone who provides care to dementia patients, providing them with a virtual experience of what it is like to have dementia as well as basic educational support.
American Association of Nursing Colleges (2006). The fundamentals of doctoral training for advanced nursing practice. https://www.aacnnursing.org/Portals/42/Publications/DNPEssentials.pdf
Beeber, A. S., Palmer, C., Waldrop, J., Lynn, M. R., & Jones, C. B. (2019). The role of nurses with a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree in clinical settings. Nursing Outlook, 67(4), 354–364.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.outlook.2019.02.006
Falkenberg-Olson, A. C. (2019). Research translation and the evolution of PhD and DNP practice roles: A need for collaboration among nurse practitioners. Journal of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, 31(8), pages 447–453. https://doi.org/10.1097/JXX.0000000000000266
Fiset, V. J., Davies, B. L, Graham, I. D., Gifford, W., & Woodend, K. (2019). Developing quality indicators based on guidelines and assessing pain management practice gaps.
17(2), 92–105, International Journal of Evidence-Based Healthcare.
https://doi.org/10.1097/XEB.0000000000000160
Hartjes, T. M., D. Lester, L. Arasi-Ruddock, S. McFadden Bradley, S. Munro, L. Cowan, and S. Munro (2019).
Answering the question: Should I pursue a Doctor of Philosophy or a Doctor of Nursing Practice?
31(8), 439–442 in Journal of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.
https://doi.org/10.1097/JXX.0000000000000273
T. Tussing, B. Brinkman, D. Francis, B. Hixon, R. Labardee, and E. Chipps (2018). Impact of the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree on hospital-based nurses. The Nursing Administration Journal, 48(12), 600–600. https://doi.org/10.1097/NNA.0000000000000688
Sample Answer 4 for NURS 8002 DQ The Doctoral Degree and Professional Nursing Practice
Higher education attainment has been associated with enhanced competency and knowledge within the specific field pursued by an individual. For instance, attainment of a doctoral degree is considered the highest attainment in every field, and therefore doctoral degree holders are expected to demonstrate a high degree of competence (Dos Santos & Lo, 2018). A DNP-prepared nurse is no exception and is expected of higher levels of knowledge and competency in patient care as compared to nurses without the DNP. This week’s discussion explores doctoral degrees and professional nursing practice. To accomplish the discussion, the role of a nurse with a practice doctorate and the associated expectations will be discussed. In addition, this discussion will explore how the consideration relates to my motivation to pursue a DNP and an experience with addressing practice change or gap in practice.
Role of a Nurse with a Practice Doctorate
DNP-prepared nurses have various advanced roles in the continuum of patient care. For instance, through the translation of quality improvement outcomes, and translation of evidence into clinical areas, and unique practice innovations, the DNP-prepared nurses create new knowledge (Trautman et al., 2018). The implication is that these nurses apply evidence-based research to systems and/or clinical settings for better health outcomes. They practice at the highest level of practice and formulate evidence-based strategies to optimize health and patient outcomes. In addition, DNP-prepared nurses also take executive and leadership positions in healthcare organizations to influence health policies, analyze cost-effective protocols, direct patient care, and coordinate quality improvement teams.
Expectations Associated With Obtaining DNP
DNP is the highest degree in nursing and is associated with various expectations. Those who have obtained the degree are expected to show high levels of skills in the care environment to effectively direct care and coordinate care teams. As opposed to PhDs holders who mainly focus on research, DNP is associated with improvement of patient care and population outcomes (Edwards et al., 2018). The implication is that these nurses with this degree have adequate skills for implementing evidence-based strategies to improve health outcomes for individual patients and the general population. Nurse practitioners who do not have a DNP offer specializations focusing on particular patient care aspects like a pediatric or family practitioner. This role differs from a DNP prepared nurse as they are expected to step up to more advanced roles that help shape the direction of healthcare organizations.
How The Considerations Relate to My Motivation to Pursue a DNP
Growing up, I have had a passion for seeing everyone lead a healthy life devoid of health complications. While doing my undergraduate degree, I realized that such goals cannot be achieved by solely focusing on what happens in the care environment but also what happens in the surroundings, such as policies and funding. One of my motivations to pursue a DNP is to get to executive and leadership positions where I can participate in effectively influencing healthcare policies and decisions. As such, the role of the DNP-prepared nurse resonates and relates well with my motivation. Translating research evidence into clinical practice also helps in improving patient outcomes (Trautman et al., 2018), which is among my motivations for pursuing a DNP. Indeed, with a higher degree, I believe I will accomplish such a goal more efficiently.
Among the top organization needs is to be leaders in providing improved patient care and enhance the patient experience. Improving the quality outcome to enhance patient experience requires that the healthcare organization addresses the quality gaps (Trautman et al., 2018). As such, my role as a DNP-prepared nurse will help in various ways to such effect. For instance, in assuming the leadership roles of leading and coordinating care teams, I will be able to effectively lead other nurses into a careful analysis of quality data, organizational standards, and government standards to identify gaps in practice. This will lead to a formulation of the most relevant and effective strategies to address such gaps and meet the goals. Besides, I will also be able to lead the organization into a literature search for evidence that can be translated into practice to address practice gaps or lead a practice change for patient quality improvement.
The experience I have Had With How our Organization addressed a Practice Change
Organizations usually strive to achieve the central aim of offering patient optimized and improved patient care. As such, organizations either undertake steps to implement a practice change or address a gap in practice (Yip et al., 2019). I have had experience with the implementation of practice change within an organization. In one of the healthcare organizations, I have worked. There was a year where the rates of catheter-associated urinary tract infections were growing month after month. A decision was then made to explore initiatives to deal with the threatening growing rates of infection. One of the chosen strategies was using a protocol to evaluate patients and use the indwelling catheters only when it is a must and ensuring that the time of usage of the catheters by the patients be reduced to as minimum as possible. As such, nurses accomplished a comprehensive one-week training on the protocols. After the training, the catheter use rates reduced by 20% as nurses were able to avoid unnecessary catheterization. Coupled by minimizing the duration of catheter use, the rates of infection dropped by an impressive 47% by the second month due to the practice change.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the doctoral degree prepares individuals for greater and more advanced professional roles. DNP-prepared nurses have a special role to play in the care environment, one of which is translating evidence into practice for improved patient outcomes. This week’s discussion has covered the roles of a DNP-prepared nurse, expectations associated with DNP, and an experience with a practice change implementation.
References
Dos Santos, L. M., & Lo, H. F. (2018). The Development of Doctoral Degree Curriculum in England: Perspectives from Professional Doctoral Degree Graduates. International Journal of Education Policy and Leadership, 13(6), n6. https://doi.org/10.22230/ijepl.2018v13n6a781.
Edwards, N. E., Coddington, J., Erler, C., & Kirkpatrick, J. (2018). The Impact of the Role of Doctor of Nursing PracticeNurses on Healthcare and Leadership. Medical Research Archives, 6(4). https://doi.org/10.18103/mra.v6i4.1734
Trautman, D. E., Idzik, S., Hammersla, M., & Rosseter, R. (2018). Advancing scholarship through translational research: The role of PhD and DNP prepared nurses. Online Journal of Issues in Nursing, 23(2). DOI: 10.3912/OJIN.Vol23No02Man02.
Yip, W., Fu, H., Chen, A. T., Zhai, T., Jian, W., Xu, R., … & Chen, W. (2019). 10 years of healthcare reform in China: progress and gaps in universal health coverage. The Lancet, 394(10204), 1192-1204. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(19)32136-1
Sample Answer 5 for NURS 8002 DQ The Doctoral Degree and Professional Nursing Practice
Including How these expectations might differ for a nurse with a different degree.
A Nurse with a Doctorate Degree plays a vital role in the clinical settings, the nursing field, and varies with the expectations and the job descriptions of a nurse with a different degree. In this discussion, I would like to discuss the role of a nurse with a practice doctorate. DNP Degree is one of the terminal degrees in the nursing profession, and it prepares the nurses to the highest level, including practicing advanced level in clinical settings. In addition, specialized DNP Nurses can provide advanced treatments and diagnose conditions; they can practice as doctors. Nurses with doctorate degrees deliver evidence-based care to all patients in clinical settings by involving in different clinical positions such as Nurse managers, advocates, supervisors, and Directors of nursing. Doctoral nurses mainly focus on two roles: leadership roles and best Educators. A doctoral degree is an advanced-based degree and plays a crucial role in doing research. A nurse with a doctorate degree should have the critical thinking, multiple skills, and advanced knowledge needed to deliver quality-based care to everyone in a clinical environment. Most DNP-prepared nurses work as APRNs, healthcare leaders, and Clinical Nurse Practitioners in the health system. As a registered nurse working in acute care settings and from my clinical experience, I have seen many doctoral nurses working in the unit and delivering direct patient care, working as direct nursing supervisors and best nurse educators.
The DNP degree allows professional nurses to identify the gaps and guide them to evaluate. Also, the main aim is to translate evidence into practice and to improve patient outcomes. In addition, DNP-prepared nurses work a phenomenal role in administrative positions, such as Chief Nurse Officers, Quality Directors, Nursing Practice Directors, and Senior Vice presidents of Clinical Operation, Nursing Outlook (2019). Among all, the main aim of doctoral nurses is to deliver evidence-based care. Doctoral-prepared practitioners are uniquely positioned for responsible leadership as essential members of the healthcare system. They are responsible for contributing to research and clinical inquiry initiatives that advance healthcare delivery and improve outcomes, Journal of the American Association of nurse practitioners, Falkenberg-Olson (August 2019).
According to the researchers and studies, the DNP program is a terminal degree Outlined for nursing professionals to improve their skills, improve health outcomes, and helps to prepare nurses to develop successful strategies to enhance patient health. My expectation of obtaining this degree is to improve patient health, apply the best knowledge, follow and continue the evidence-based practice to deliver evidence-based care to all individuals in the clinical environment. I believe the program prepares me to be an advanced mental health nurse practitioner and provide quality care to the patients who are mentally challenged. Obtaining a doctorate degree, need a lot of effort and hard work and the degree will prepare the nurses to apply advanced knowledge for best practice. As I mentioned earlier, the doctoral degree mainly focuses on research, while doing research and learning new subjects/topics can improve knowledge and increase skills through writing, analysis, and reading, which will help nurses academically and professionally grow and prepare more productive in the health care system. Nurses have a lot of opportunities in this healthcare system to improve their careers. As mentioned earlier, DNP degree and their expectations, job descriptions are different and varies than a nurse with other specialties—for example, Master’s in nursing with specialties, Ph.D. in nursing, and MBA in Nursing. Nurse with Masters’s and a Ph.D. degree in nursing can practice as specialty nurses who can guide the patients and provide education about that particular specialty and works as in different roles; however, The DNP with specialized practitioners can prescribe medications or diagnose disease conditions. The DNP degree has a lot of potentials, focuses on improving organizational and leadership skills, and plays a vital role in a multi-provider practice.
My essential motive for pursuing the DNP degree is to Practice as an Advanced mental health Nurse practitioner and provide support, quality-based care to mentally challenged patients including provide accurate treatments and therapies. Also improve my leadership skills by earning high knowledge, treating patients, and providing quality-based care through evidence-based practice. Doctor Of Nursing Practice is an accredited program that prepares nurses and leaders to reach the top level and takes nurses to the highest level of nursing practice. The program’s main goal is to improve patient outcomes and helps the research study and plays a vital role in translating research into practice. Getting a DNP degree was my greatest dream when I graduated from nursing school years ago. We could make a better clinical environment by educating the patients, providing better treatments, diagnosing different disease conditions and treat according to that including the prevention and control of all common diseases.
Addressing a Gap in Practice and Implement a Practice Change
In clinical settings, a practice gap means a problem endures in practice and the opportunity for Improvement in knowledge and skill. Experts state that the professional gap is the difference between a desirable or achievable state of practice and current reality. I would like to elaborate on the gaps in the healthcare system by an example. As I mentioned, the gap creates a discrepancy between the quality of care provided to each patient and the existing recommended practices in clinical settings. For example, a patient at risk of developing cancer or having a family history fails to follow up, misses the recommended screenings such as mammograms, colonoscopies, etc. As a nurse manager working in a geriatric unit, I always make sure that the up to date follow ups and the appointments are maintain in a standard and correct way. We can address the gaps in healthcare through different ways. For example, by communication, such as provide awareness and education by using texting or calling technique to reduce gaps in healthcare settings thereby Improves patient knowledge, communication with technologies. As a Nurse manager, I always instruct the unit and educate about to re-schedule appointments in case if cancelled and provide awareness. As I mentioned earlier, a gap in practice is a discrepancy, especially when the patient doesn’t get the care they need. On the other hand, poor treatment and care, lack of education and knowledge also cause gaps in care. From my experience, I have seen a lot of incidents in healthcare settings, such as recurrent patient appointments or follow up being postponed or even canceled. And there are no follow-up appointments to reschedule; in this situation discrepancy continues and patients unable to get the care they need.
In other case, some patients are proactive; this also causes a gap in care. in order to close the gap in care, the first step I believe is, must collect more details about the patient by queries, asking for detailed information from each patient and documenting correctly in the system, and make a holistic patient profile so that if the patient engages the healthcare provider on next visit and the provider can find out the complete information about that particular patient. In another way, we could close the gap by scheduling appointments, doing follow-ups at the correct time, up-to-date yearly screenings, and providing education. Closing the gap is to maintain the patient’s health and well-being. In this discussion, I explained the role of a nurse with a practice doctorate and the expectations, motivation to pursue a DNP degree, and finally, about the gap in practice.
References
- Beeber, A. S., Palmer, C., Waldrop, J., Lynn, M. R., & Jones, C. B. (2019). The role of Doctor of Nursing Practice-prepared nurses in practice settings links to an external siteLinks to an external site.. Nursing Outlook, 67(4), 354–364. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.outlook.2019.02.006Links to an external site.
- Fist, V. J., Davies, B. L, Graham, I. D., Gifford, W., & Woodend, K. (2019). Developing guideline-based quality indicators: Assessing gaps in pain management practice.Links to an external site.Links to an external site.International Journal of Evidence-Based Healthcare, 17(2), 92–105. https://doi.org/10.1097/XEB.00000000000001Links to an external site.
- Giardino, E. R., & Hickey, J. V. (2020). Doctor of Nursing Practice students’ perceptions of professional change through the DNP program links to an external site.Links to an external site.. Journal of Professional Nursing,36(6), 595–603. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.profnurs.2020.08.012
Sample Answer 6 for NURS 8002 DQ The Doctoral Degree and Professional Nursing Practice
There are two approaches to achieving a doctoral degree in the nursing field. Research translation which is in accordance with a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in nursing and a DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) in clinical practice (AACN, 2006). In my case, I am going for a DNP degree. The role of a nurse with a DNP varies depending on what route an individual wants to go for. According to Beeber et al., (2019), DNP prepared nurses are usually carrying the role as an advanced practicing nurse in clinical care or as leaders in healthcare systems. In general DNPs should be able to display leadership skills, advanced clinical skills, and adherence to evidence-based practice. Expectations might be different from a nurse without a DNP because educational requirements have equipped individuals to practice under their designated scope of practice. The only similarity to practice as a DNP is an Advanced Practice Nurse with a master’s degree. DNP prepared nurses have stronger assessment skills and are better able to concentrate on systemic problems that revolve around quality of care and finance (Beeber et al., 2019). My motivation to practice as a DNP, steers toward having the opportunity to practice at the highest level of nursing. Which in turn will give me access to gaining knowledge that will allow me to accumulate leadership skills, advanced clinical skills, and the confidence of adhering to evidence-based practice throughout my career. According to Giardino & Hickey, (2020), the educational journey of a DNP candidate redefines and enhances the role of professional development. I believe that my role as a DNP prepared nurse will guide me into solving specific gaps in any organization that I attend because it will mold me into an advocate that can influence the decisions made for improving patient outcomes. I personally do not have experiences addressing a gap in practice, but I am sure I will come across issues in the future. When the time comes, I’ll be able to face those gaps head on and use my DNP skills to address those gaps to the best of my ability.
References:
American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (2006). The essentials of doctoral education for advanced nursing practice. https://www.aacnnursing.org/Portals/42/Publications/DNPEssentials.pdf
Beeber, A. S., Palmer, C., Waldrop, J., Lynn, M. R., & Jones, C. B. (2019). The role of Doctor of Nursing Practice-prepared nurses in practice settingsLinks to an external site.Links to an external site.. Nursing Outlook, 67(4), 354–364. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.outlook.2019.02.006
Giardino, E. R., & Hickey, J. V. (2020). Doctor of Nursing Practice students’ perceptions of professional change through the DNP programLinks to an external site.Links to an external site.. Journal of Professional Nursing, 36(6), 595–603. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.profnurs.2020.08.012
Rubric Detail
Select Grid View or List View to change the rubric’s layout.
Name: NURS_8002_Week4_Discussion_Rubric
| Excellent
90%–100% |
Good
80%–89% |
Fair
70%–79% |
Poor
0%–69% |
|||
| Main Posting:
Response to the Discussion question is reflective with critical analysis and synthesis representative of knowledge gained from the course readings for the module and current credible sources. |
40 (40%) – 44 (44%)
Thoroughly responds to the Discussion question(s). Is reflective with critical analysis and synthesis representative of knowledge gained from the course readings for the module and current credible sources. No less than 75% of post has exceptional depth and breadth. Supported by at least three current credible sources. |
35 (35%) – 39 (39%)
Responds to most of the Discussion question(s). Is somewhat reflective with critical analysis and synthesis representative of knowledge gained from the course readings for the module. 50% of the post has exceptional depth and breadth. Supported by at least three credible references. |
31 (31%) – 34 (34%)
Responds to some of the Discussion question(s). One to two criteria are not addressed or are superficially addressed. Is somewhat lacking reflection and critical analysis and synthesis. Somewhat represents knowledge gained from the course readings for the module. Cited with fewer than two credible references. |
0 (0%) – 30 (30%)
Does not respond to the Discussion question(s). Lacks depth or superficially addresses criteria. Lacks reflection and critical analysis and synthesis. Does not represent knowledge gained from the course readings for the module. Contains only one or no credible references. |
||
| Main Posting:
Writing |
6 (6%) – 6 (6%)
Written clearly and concisely. Contains no grammatical or spelling errors. Adheres to current APA manual writing rules and style. |
5 (5%) – 5 (5%)
Written concisely. May contain one to two grammatical or spelling errors. Adheres to current APA manual writing rules and style. |
4 (4%) – 4 (4%)
Written somewhat concisely. May contain more than two spelling or grammatical errors. Contains some APA formatting errors. |
0 (0%) – 3 (3%)
Not written clearly or concisely. Contains more than two spelling or grammatical errors. Does not adhere to current APA manual writing rules and style. |
||
| Main Posting:
Timely and full participation |
9 (9%) – 10 (10%)
Meets requirements for timely, full, and active participation. Posts main Discussion by due date. |
8 (8%) – 8 (8%)
Meets requirements for full participation. Posts main Discussion by due date. |
7 (7%) – 7 (7%)
Posts main Discussion by due date. |
0 (0%) – 6 (6%)
Does not meet requirements for full participation. Does not post main Discussion by due date. |
||
| First Response:
Post to colleague’s main post that is reflective and justified with credible sources. |
9 (9%) – 9 (9%)
Response exhibits critical thinking and application to practice settings. Responds to questions posed by faculty. The use of scholarly sources to support ideas demonstrates synthesis and understanding of learning objectives. |
8 (8%) – 8 (8%)
Response has some depth and may exhibit critical thinking or application to practice setting. |
7 (7%) – 7 (7%)
Response is on topic and may have some depth. |
0 (0%) – 6 (6%)
Response may not be on topic and lacks depth. |
||
| First Response: Writing |
6 (6%) – 6 (6%)
Communication is professional and respectful to colleagues. Response to faculty questions are fully answered, if posed. Provides clear, concise opinions and ideas that are supported by two or more credible sources. Response is effectively written in standard, edited English. |
5 (5%) – 5 (5%)
Communication is mostly professional and respectful to colleagues. Response to faculty questions are mostly answered, if posed. Provides opinions and ideas that are supported by few credible sources. Response is written in standard, edited English. |
4 (4%) – 4 (4%)
Response posed in the Discussion may lack effective professional communication. Response to faculty questions are somewhat answered, if posed. Few or no credible sources are cited. |
0 (0%) – 3 (3%)
Responses posted in the Discussion lack effective communication. Response to faculty questions are missing. No credible sources are cited. |
||
| First Response: Timely and full participation |
5 (5%) – 5 (5%)
Meets requirements for timely, full, and active participation. Posts by due date. |
4 (4%) – 4 (4%)
Meets requirements for full participation. Posts by due date. |
3 (3%) – 3 (3%)
Posts by due date. |
0 (0%) – 2 (2%)
Does not meet requirements for full participation. Does not post by due date. |
||
| Second Response: Post to colleague’s main post that is reflective and justified with credible sources. |
9 (9%) – 9 (9%)
Response exhibits critical thinking and application to practice settings. Responds to questions posed by faculty. The use of scholarly sources to support ideas demonstrates synthesis and understanding of learning objectives. |
8 (8%) – 8 (8%)
Response has some depth and may exhibit critical thinking or application to practice setting. |
7 (7%) – 7 (7%)
Response is on topic and may have some depth. |
0 (0%) – 6 (6%)
Response may not be on topic and lacks depth. |
||
| Second Response: Writing |
6 (6%) – 6 (6%)
Communication is professional and respectful to colleagues. Response to faculty questions are fully answered, if posed. Provides clear, concise opinions and ideas that are supported by two or more credible sources. Response is effectively written in standard, edited English. |
5 (5%) – 5 (5%)
Communication is mostly professional and respectful to colleagues. Response to faculty questions are mostly answered, if posed. Provides opinions and ideas that are supported by few credible sources. Response is written in standard, edited English. |
4 (4%) – 4 (4%)
Response posed in the Discussion may lack effective professional communication. Response to faculty questions are somewhat answered, if posed. Few or no credible sources are cited. |
0 (0%) – 3 (3%)
Responses posted in the Discussion lack effective communication. Response to faculty questions are missing. No credible sources are cited. |
||
| Second Response: Timely and full participation |
5 (5%) – 5 (5%)
Meets requirements for timely, full, and active participation. Posts by due date. |
4 (4%) – 4 (4%)
Meets requirements for full participation. Posts by due date. |
3 (3%) – 3 (3%)
Posts by due date. |
0 (0%) – 2 (2%)
Does not meet requirements for full participation. Does not post by due date. |
||
| Total Points: 100 | ||||||
Sample Answer for NURS 8002 DQ The Doctoral Degree and Professional Nursing Practice
I want to first say that I appreciate your in-depth review of both the Ph.D and DNP roles. I honestly feel as though my learning was solidified with your explanations. There are two things that stuck with me as I read your discussion post—goal alignment and how COVID-19 has impacted nursing.
To begin, I think it is critical for nurses to reflect on their position and consider how they want to impact nursing in the future. Often times, I hear nurses state that they want to pursue an advanced degree, but they waiver back and forth with either being a nurse practitioner or Ph.D. When I ask what exactly they want to do, they say that they just want an advanced degree to be more marketable and “keep up with the times”. I warn that this is dangerous because both roles are critical to the nursing practice and require a different skillset—advanced degrees are not to be entered into lightly. I believe the importance of these degrees and their contribution to nursing practice should be communicated at the BSN and MSN levels to help appropriately inform future nurse leaders about their impact on the profession. From my personal experience, I think that most nurses just want to attain the “glamour” of the degree to add the credentials, but they do not have a passion for research or practice improvement. Therefore, I agree that nurses need to identify and align their goals.
COVID-19 has significantly impacted the entire healthcare delivery system. While it has wreaked havoc on life as we know it and nursing care, it has also ignited my interest in evidence-based practice. I fully enjoy looking at data, creating a plan, implementing the plan, and waiting for the results. With that being said, as a labor and delivery nurse at the start of the pandemic, it was evident that care for COVID + labor patients would look different from the norm. Over the course of the year, we realized that pregnant COVID patients would present with pre-eclampsia symptoms, which posed a major problem for our unit—we were faced with asking this question, “how do we know who needs magnesium sulfate and who does not”? Did COVID pre-eclampsia symptoms take the same toll on the body as true pre-eclampsia? This was major shift in critical thinking and nursing practice. I absolutely fell in love with this, and I joined a task-force committee at work to help address the new concerns as we arise. It was exciting to engage in the research process and help create practice change on our unit. So, it is safe to say, I am ready for the DNP ride (insert major smile). The AACN (2006) identified the eight essentials of the DNP that are foundational competencies that are core to all advanced nursing practice roles. I am sure that I will develop the foundational essentials, but I most closely relate to Clinical Scholarship and Analytical Methods for Evidence Based Practice.
Reference
American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). (2006). The essentials of doctoral education for advanced nursing practice. Washington, DC: Author. Retrieved from http://www.aacnnursing.org/DNP/DNP-Essentials
Sample Answer for NURS 8002 DQ The Doctoral Degree and Professional Nursing Practice
The nursing profession offers two degrees, DNP and Ph.D. While both are doctoral level degrees, they differ in that the DNP focuses on the clinical practice of nursing and the Ph.D. is trained to focus on research and the to generate new and knowledge and can use that research to educate the general public. Both professionals play a very important role in the entire health care system. According that (ANNP, 2021) there are fewer than thirty thousand doctorate degree nurses in the USA. Both the DNP and Ph.D. prepare nurses to play a critical role in the development of knowledge that affect care and service delivery to patients through evidence base practices.
A DNP plays a significant role in the health care system and policy and advocacy to transform service delivery in the facilities they work. The nurse holding a DNP and using evidence base practice to collaborate with other health care professional in quality improvement services in the community. The Ph.D. is respected for promoting knowledge and therefore work in areas of academic to promote education for future nurse. (Clearly et al 2011).
My motivation for becoming a DNP has been a long journey, it is part of a promised made to by mother that I will become nurse. I am originally from West Africa Sierra Leone, where Mental Health is still remains a big stigma – and one of my aim as a DNP is to be able to provide the education and professional assistance to individual in the African community.
References
American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). (2004).
AACN position statement on the practice doctorate in nursing. Washington DC. Author.
Clearly, M., Hunt, G. E., & Jackson, D (2011). Demystifying Ph.Ds: A review of doctorate programs deigned to fulfill the needs of the next generation of nursing.
Michael, M.J & Clochesy, J.M. (2016). From scientific discovery to health outcomes: A
synergistic model of doctoral nursing education. Nurse education Today, 40, 84-86