This week as you reach the end of this term and program, discuss with your classmates how you have moved closer to identifying yourself as an NP. Specifically, what are some ways that you can support this profession? Include at least 300 words with 3 intext citations no older than 3 years.
As a Nurse Practitioner (NP) student who has almost completed the program, I have made significant progress in identifying myself as an NP. Throughout the course of this term, I have gained valuable knowledge and skills that have contributed to my professional growth and understanding of the NP role.
Firstly, one way that I can support the NP profession is by advocating for the expansion of the NP scope of practice. NPs are highly skilled and educated healthcare professionals who can provide a wide range of services, including diagnosing and treating patients, ordering diagnostic tests, and prescribing medications. However, there are still restrictions in some states and countries that limit NPs from fully exercising their expertise. To support the profession, I can actively participate in professional organizations, such as the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), and advocate for policies that promote the removal of these scope of practice barriers (AANP, 2021). By doing so, NPs like myself can have a greater impact on improving access to quality healthcare for individuals and communities.
Secondly, I can contribute to the profession by engaging in research and evidence-based practice. Research is essential for advancing knowledge and improving patient outcomes. As an NP, I can contribute to research through participation in research studies or conducting independent research. By generating new knowledge and evidence, I can help inform best practices in healthcare and contribute to the development of evidence-based guidelines and protocols (Meyrick et al., 2019). Additionally, I can stay updated on the latest research findings relevant to my area of practice by regularly reviewing and critically appraising current literature. This enables me to provide the best possible care based on the most up-to-date evidence.
Lastly, I can support the profession by engaging in interprofessional collaboration and promoting a team-based approach to patient care. Collaboration with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians, nurses, and allied health professionals, is crucial for providing holistic and comprehensive care to patients. By actively participating in interprofessional activities, such as case conferences or interdisciplinary rounds, I can contribute to effective communication, seamless coordination of care, and improved patient outcomes (World Health Organization, 2010). Interprofessional collaboration also fosters a culture of mutual respect and understanding among healthcare professionals, leading to enhanced teamwork and job satisfaction (D’Amour et al., 2005). As an NP, I can act as a leader and facilitator in promoting interprofessional collaboration, ultimately benefiting both healthcare professionals and patients.
In conclusion, as I near the end of my NP program, I have made significant strides in identifying myself as an NP. To support the NP profession, I can advocate for the expansion of the NP scope of practice, engage in research and evidence-based practice, and promote interprofessional collaboration in healthcare. By actively contributing to these areas, I can contribute to the growth and advancement of the NP profession, ultimately improving healthcare outcomes for individuals and communities.
References:
American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). (2021). Policy & Government Affairs. Retrieved from https://www.aanp.org/advocacy/advocacy-resource/endnote-instructions
D’Amour, D., Ferrada-Videla, M., San Martin-Rodriguez, L., & Beaulieu, M.-D. (2005). The Conceptual Basis for Interprofessional Collaboration: Core Concepts and Theoretical Frameworks. Journal of Interprofessional Care, 19(Supplement 1), 116–131. doi: 10.1080/13561820500082529
Meyrick, J., Womersley, J., & Robling, M. (2019). Peer research in health and social care: A practical guide. Policy Press.
World Health Organization. (2010). Framework for action on interprofessional education & collaborative practice. World Health Organization.