DQ 1: Discuss the correlation between nursing education and positive patient outcomes

 DQ 1: Discuss the correlation between nursing education and positive patient outcomes

With the endorsement of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs by nursing education leaders (American Association of Colleges of Nursing [AACN], 2004), nurses seeking a terminal degree gained access to a new avenue for achieving doctoral education. Within the discipline, a general consensus has emerged regarding the differences and similarities between the long-established research doctorate, the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD), and the more recent DNP degree. Both programs prepare nurses to the highest level of knowledge and expertise in their respective foci, provide a pathway to organizational and policy leadership positions, and can serve as a springboard for a career in nursing education (Bednash, Breslin, Kirschling, & Rosseter, 2014).Because program goals differ, each approach is valuable and unique within the profession. The PhD prepares nurse scientists to develop research programs that advance the development of new knowledge, whereas the DNP prepares practice experts to apply and translate that knowledge into better direct patient care settings or nurse executive roles (Edwardson, 2010). To achieve the various goals, various curricula and program structures are required. The PhD curriculum, for example, emphasizes intense research content and lived research experiences, whereas the DNP curriculum emphasizes evidence-based clinical practice and health systems leadership (Melnyk, 2013). The PhD program prepares nurse leaders for scientific research careers. Students learn how to conduct nursing research and lead research teams, how to develop theory and contribute to the body of knowledge in nursing and the health sciences, and how to disseminate research findings through scholarly publications, presentations, and teaching.PhD program graduates work as nurse scientists in research or in positions of leadership in academic and non-academic settings. Recent PhD in Nursing graduates hold positions such as assistant professor, clinical research unit manager, faculty instructor, post-doctoral fellow, program director, co-founder, and chief nursing officer.

Edwardson, S. R. (2010). Doctor of philosophy and doctor of nursing practice as complementary degrees. Journal of Professional Nursing, 26(3), 137–140. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.profnurs.2009.08.004

Melnyk, B. (2013). Distinguishing the preparation and roles of doctor of philosophy and doctor of nursing practice graduates: National implications for academic curricula and health care systems. Journal of Nursing Education, 52(8), 442–448. https://doi.org/10.3928/01484834-20130719-01