A programmatic taxonomy to define, differentiate, and classify nurse practitioner postgraduate training.

Abstract

Postgraduate residencies and fellowships have become a growing foundational element in the early career path for new nurse practitioners (NPs) and for NPs changing areas of specialization. The proposed programmatic taxonomy provides a straightforward method to recognize and classify NP postgraduate training programs with differing missions, structures, and outcome objectives. Models of postgraduate training for NPs are identified, defined, and differentiated. Each model can serve as an essential and specific purpose for the sponsoring organization. The programmatic models for NP postgraduate training programs are residency, fellowship, and "additional programs." Differences between residency and fellowship are described. The taxonomy then compares and contrasts the three models on five overarching programmatic characteristics, namely, mission, goals, environment, evaluation, and duration. The potential impact of adopting the NP postgraduate training taxonomy on the NP profession, the public, funding, accreditation, and the early career development of NPs is explored. Recommendations for next steps are suggested.