REFERENCES American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). (2006). The essentials of doctoral education for advanced nursing practice Bleich, M. R. (2011). IOM report, The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health: milestones and challenges in expanding nursing science. Research In Nursing & Health, 34(3), 169-170. doi:10.1002/nur.20433 Moriber, N. A., Wallace-Kazer, M., Shea, J., Grossman, S., Wheeler, K., & Conelius, J. (2014). Transforming Doctoral Education Through the Clinical Electronic Portfolio. Nurse Educator, 39(5), 221-226. doi:10.1097/NNE.0000000000000053

Introduction

Doctoral education in nursing plays a vital role in advancing the nursing profession and promoting the delivery of high-quality healthcare. In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on the importance of doctoral education for advanced nursing practice. This focus has been driven by various factors, including the increasing complexity of healthcare systems, the growing demand for advanced practice nursing roles, and the need for evidence-based practice.

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the essentials of doctoral education for advanced nursing practice, as outlined by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). We will also explore the milestones and challenges in expanding nursing science, as highlighted in the Institute of Medicine (IOM) report, “The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health.” Lastly, we will examine the transformation of doctoral education through the use of clinical electronic portfolios.

Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice

The AACN recognizes the importance of doctoral education in preparing advanced practice nurses to lead complex healthcare organizations and to shape healthcare policy and practices. In their document, “The Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice,” the AACN outlines the core competencies and knowledge areas that doctoral students should acquire during their education (AACN, 2006).

The first essential is Scientific Underpinnings for Practice. Doctoral students are expected to develop a deep understanding of the scientific foundation of nursing practice, including theories, principles, and research methods. This essential emphasizes the importance of evidence-based practice and the integration of research findings into advanced nursing practice.

The second essential is Organizational and Systems Leadership. Doctoral students are encouraged to develop skills in leadership, collaboration, and advocacy within healthcare systems. They should demonstrate the ability to effectively navigate complex organizational structures and promote change in healthcare delivery.

The third essential is Clinical Scholarship and Analytical Methods for Evidence-Based Practice. Doctoral students should possess expertise in the critical appraisal of research evidence and the application of findings to clinical practice. They should also demonstrate proficiency in the use of analytic methods to evaluate healthcare outcomes and inform practice improvement.

The fourth essential is Information Systems/Technology and Patient Care Technology for the Improvement and Transformation of Health Care. Doctoral students should understand the role of information systems and technology in healthcare delivery and its impact on patient safety and quality of care. They should be able to use technology to manage data and information, facilitate communication, and support evidence-based practice.

The fifth essential is Interprofessional Collaboration for Improving Patient and Population Health Outcomes. Doctoral students should be able to collaborate effectively with other healthcare professionals to improve health outcomes at the individual, community, and population levels. They should understand the roles and scope of practice of different healthcare disciplines and be able to work collaboratively to address complex healthcare issues.

The sixth essential is Clinical Prevention and Population Health for Improving the Nation’s Health. Doctoral students should possess knowledge and skills in the promotion of health, prevention of illness, and management of chronic diseases. They should be able to design and implement population-based interventions to address public health challenges.

The seventh essential is Advanced Nursing Practice. Doctoral students should have a broad understanding of advanced nursing practice, including its historical and contemporary perspectives. They should be able to provide advanced nursing care to individuals, families, and populations across different healthcare settings.

The eighth essential is Ethics in Advanced Nursing Practice. Doctoral students should possess a strong ethical foundation and be able to apply ethical principles in their practice. They should demonstrate a commitment to professional integrity, social justice, and the provision of culturally sensitive care.

The ninth essential is Leadership in Advanced Nursing Practice. Doctoral students should develop leadership skills that can be applied at various levels, from the clinical unit to the healthcare system. They should be able to lead and manage interdisciplinary teams, promote innovation, and influence healthcare policy and practices.

The tenth essential is Applied Research Methods for Advanced Nursing Practice. Doctoral students should possess knowledge and skills in research design, methodology, and data analysis. They should be able to conduct and disseminate research that contributes to the advancement of nursing knowledge and practice.

In conclusion, doctoral education in nursing is essential for preparing advanced practice nurses to meet the challenges of a complex healthcare system. The AACN’s essentials provide a framework for developing the knowledge and skills needed for advanced nursing practice. By addressing these essentials, doctoral programs can effectively prepare nurses to lead and transform healthcare delivery.

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