Advancing the profession

The end of the year often brings about both times of reflection and anticipation of new things to come. Many people set resolutions as a way to spur themselves to action with a “fresh slate” in the form of a new calendar year. As educators, it’s incumbent upon us to delve deep into what underlies this urge for change, particularly as it relates to continuing and advanced degree education for nursing and health care professionals - in particular, the pursuit of a DNP designation.

Why do people pursue doctoral degrees? For some, it’s necessary for career advancement or licensure. For others it’s the pursuit of knowledge or prestige, research opportunities or higher earning potential. For nursing professionals, doctorally-prepared care providers play an integral role in the health care landscape. 

Here at ASU’s Edson College, our DNP program places significant emphasis on interprofessionalism, innovation and collaboration. The goal: the integration of new knowledge and expertise to improve outcomes through organizational/systems leadership, quality improvement processes and translation of evidence into practice. In short - when nurses obtain a terminal degree, the facilities and organizations they are aligned with enjoy advanced levels of innovation in patient advocacy, innovation in skilled delivery of care, and implementation of innovative interventions that result in better patient outcomes. Doctorally-prepared nurses don’t just gain the tools they need to advance themselves professionally; they gain tools necessary to change the face of health care.

So how do we best promote the idea of advanced education for nursing students and alumni? We tap into what led them to the profession in the first place - the opportunity to enact meaningful and impactful change on the profession, and in the way we deliver health care. We encourage them to be part of the health care evolution that’s taking place. We urge them to be part of the solution. We ensure they make and keep those promises to themselves… and we don’t let the thought of continuing education become a dusty “resolution treadmill” in the garage of their lives.

My warmest wishes for a happy, healthy and safe holiday season for you and yours.