Describing the Challenges Faced by Newly Prepared DNP Graduates in the Acute Care Setting

Abstract

Since the development and introduction of the doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree in 2004, the number of doctoral-prepared nurses has increased dramatically. The purpose of this article is to review the current challenges faced by DNP-prepared nurses as they enter the acute health care setting, and to share strategies we are exploring to enhance and showcase DNP practices and outcomes. In collaboration with our doctor of philosophy nursing colleagues, it is critical that we conduct studies that document the impact that DNP graduates have on health care organizations and, most importantly, patient outcomes. Since the development and introduction of the doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree in 2004, the number of doctoral-prepared nurses has increased dramatically. The purpose of this article is to review the current challenges faced by DNP-prepared nurses as they enter the acute health care setting, and to share strategies we are exploring to enhance and showcase DNP practices and outcomes. In collaboration with our doctor of philosophy nursing colleagues, it is critical that we conduct studies that document the impact that DNP graduates have on health care organizations and, most importantly, patient outcomes. Ruth Labardee, DNP, RN, CNL, NEA-BC, is the director of health system nursing quality and evidence-based practice at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center (OSUWMC) in Columbus, Ohio, and assistant professor of clinical practice at The Ohio State University College of Nursing. She can be reached at [email protected] Jacalyn Buck, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FAONL, is the chief nursing officer at University Hospital, Ross Heart Hospital, Brain and Spine Hospital and Dodd Rehabilitation Hospital at OSUWMC, and assistant professor of clinical practice at The Ohio State University College of Nursing. Rebecca Coffey, PhD, MSN, CNP, is a nurse practitioner for the Burn Center at OSUWMC. Kerry Dhakal, MAA, MLS, is an assistant professor, and research and education librarian at The Ohio State University. Deborah Francis, DNP, RN-BC, APRN-CNS, is a medical surgical clinical nurse specialist at OSUWMC. Deborah Seeling, DNP, RN, APRN-CNP, FNP-C, is a family nurse practitioner at The Ohio State University Hospital East, and an assistant professor of clinical practice at The Ohio State University College of Nursing. Esther Chipps, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, is a nurse scientist at OSUWMC and associate professor of clinical nursing at The Ohio State University College of Nursing.