Your Thoughts on the DNP
This week we review a few comments from readers on posts to the DNP Answers blog. Last week, contributor Catherine Nichols responded to a question from a reader about whether the DNP must be a clinical degree. William, an NP and reader from Tampa, Fla., had the following to say, echoing many NPs' comments on the DNP over the years:
"In my opinion the problem with current DNP programs is the complete lack of 'clinical' course work. My definition of clinical work is diagnosing and treating patients; not informatics and leadership. When I first heard of the DNP, I thought it was designed to provide advanced clinical education and training to nurse practitioners. I was greatly disappointed once I started reviewing the curriculum of programs around the country. The current state of the DNP does very little for the advancement of nurse practitioners. I know this is going to be an unpopular view, however, I believe it to be true. The AANP must agree with me due to the fact they would use none of my DNP course work for my AANP recertification."
We also had some new comments to a post by contributor Mai Kung that defines what a capstone project is, "The DNP Capstone." Wendy, an NP from Jacksonville, Fla., said the following:
"I have started a BSN-DNP program of 3 years. I am already starting to think of my capstone. I have several areas that are dear to me. I will continue to peruse this site and the links to gather more information. We haven't been giving any particulars yet; I'm just an early bird. I want to do something that instill change. I would love to make my mark in this world positively in my nursing career. Some of my areas of interest are: stopping smoking, alternative medicine e.g., hypnosis. When I did my application for this program I stated an interest in education determining the quality/cost of education when being taught by less experienced professors. But don't quite know how to go about that. Thanks for this website and I look forward to conversing with you."
And in response to "Time Management for the DNP" by Lisa Chism, recent DNP graduate Jaclyn Engelsher had this to say:
"I kept a blog during my DNP experience. If anyone is interested in what a heavy week looks like, read 'Motherload' for a little insight. 'Preparing for Semester Two' describes typical assignments from various classes."
Thank you for your questions, comments and suggestions. Keep sharing them with us!
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