Doctorate study in nursing has two options; research-focused and practice-focused doctorate nursing degrees (Peterson’s, 2010). These are Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree. The academic or research degree, PhD, was traditionally the only doctorate study degree in nursing, but the American Association of Colleges of Nursing has introduced Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, focused on clinical practice.
Preparation and expertise are areas of difference between the two programs (DeNisco & Barker, 2012). DNP curriculum places less emphasis on theory and research and more on practice. The scholarly project, i.e. the final doctorate project, also differs in the two programs (Ibid). The dissertation required for DNP program focuses on clinical practice. It should demonstrate ways in which research impact on clinical practice. The dissertation for PhD nursing program focuses on development of new knowledge.
At doctorate level, I would study DNP. Its principal aim is evidence-based clinical practice. It includes essential modules on leadership, information and technology, and health policy. In documenting evidence-based nursing practice, DNP project generates new knowledge.
References
DeNisco, S. & Barker, A. (2012). “Advanced Nursing Practice”. Burlington, MA: Jones &
Bartlett Learning
Peterson’s. (2010). “Nursing Programs 2011”. Lawrenceville, NJ: Author
2). ADN and BSN nurses and Patient Outcomes
Associate Nursing Degree or Diploma (ADN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) are entry level programs in nursing education. New research evidence indicates that the proportion of baccalaureate nurses and certified staff influences patient mortality and failure to rescue (Kendall-Gallagher, Aiken, Sloane, & Cimiotti, 2011). In a study, a 10% increase in the proportion of baccalaureate nurse decreased the odds of adjusted 30-day mortality by 6%. The same proportion change in certified baccalaureate staff nurses produced a 2% decrease. The result for failure to rescue was the same for the two categories of nurses. Research evidence associates higher nurse education with improved patient outcomes. However, there is a difference in outcomes between baccalaureate and lower levels of qualification (Aiken, Clarke, Sloane, Lake, & Cheney, 2008). Hospitals with relatively higher numbers of nurses with baccalaureate or higher qualification experience lower mortality and failure to rescue rates.
In reality, the research findings are evident in practice. Nurses with higher level of education are better equipped with knowledge and technology. In addition, they undergo training in management and leadership skills essential for consultation and collaboration in the provision of patient care.
References
Aiken, H., Clarke, P., Sloane, D., Lake, E. & Cheney, T. (2008). “Effects of Hospital
Environment on Patient-Mortality and Nurse Outcomes”. Journal of Nursing
Administration, 38(5): 223-229
Kendall-Gallagher, Aiken, L., Sloane, D. & Cimiotti, J. (2011). “Nurse-Specialty Certification,
Patient Mortality and Failure-to-Rescue”. Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 43(2):188-194
