AACN COMPETENCIES AND THE WALDEN MISSION, VISION, AND OUTCOMES

The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) set forth a set of standards, the DNP Essentials, that define the foundational competencies that should be acquired and focused throughout a DNP degree program’s curriculum. Additionally, the DNP Essentials represent those competencies and areas that will inform your areas of practice as a DNP-prepared nurse. Take special note that in addition to your personal and academic motivations for pursuing a DNP degree, you will be required to demonstrate and enact these essentials in your daily practice.

For this Assignment, review the AACN DNP Essentials document and reflect on the competencies presented. Reflect on your personal and academic goals and consider how those goals align with both Walden University’s mission and vision and with the AACN DNP Essentials. Reflect on the social determinants of health framework and consider how your academic and professional goals might align with addressing these elements as a DNP-prepared nurse.

RESOURCES

Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
Click the weekly resources link to access the resources.

WEEKLY RESOURCES

• American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (n.d.). Fact sheetsLinks to an external site..https://www.aacnnursing.org/news-data/fact-sheets
• American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (2015). The Doctor of Nursing Practice: Current issues and clarifying recommendations.https://www.aacnnursing.org/Portals/42/News/White-Papers/DNP-Implementation-TF-Report-8-15.pdfDownload DNP-Implementation-TF-Report-8-15.pdf
• American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (2006). The essentials of doctoral education for advanced nursing practice.https://www.aacnnursing.org/Portals/42/Publications/pdfDownload DNPEssentials.pdf
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Social determinants of health: Know what affects health.Links to an external site.https://www.cdc.gov/socialdeterminants/index.htm
• Read, C. Y., Pino Betancourt, D. M., & Morrison, C. (2016). Social change: A framework for inclusive leadership: Development in nursing education.Links to an external site.Journal of Nursing Education, 55(3), 164–167. https://doi.org/10.3928/01484834-20160216-08
• Walden University. (2022). Social determinants of health: Understanding vision health equity.Links to an external site.https://www.waldenu.edu/online-masters-programs/master-of-science-in-nursing/resource/social-determinants-of-health-understanding-vision-health-equity
• Walden University. (n.d.). Walden catalog.Links to an external site.https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/catalog/home
  • Review the “Introduction” to the Walden Catalog, noting in particular the “Vision, Mission, and Goals” section of the Walden University Catalog.

TO PREPARE:

• Review The Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice(AACN, 2006) in this week’s Learning Resources and reflect on the competencies presented.
• Review Walden University’s mission, vision, and university outcomes.
• Reflect on your professional and academic goals. Consider how Walden’s mission and vision as well as the AACN’s perspective may fit with your goals. How might you incorporate a commitment to social change into your academic and professional plans?
• How might your academic and professional goals align with addressing the social determinants of health?

THE ASSIGNMENT: (2–3 PAGES)

• Explain how your academic and professional goals align with Walden’s vision, mission, social change message, social determinants of health, and university outcomes as well asand the AACN DNP Essentials. Be specific.
• Explain how you plan to incorporate social change throughout your program of study and in professional practice. Be sure to include how social change may contribute to your practicum/field experience and your role in professional practice.

Reminder: The College of Nursing requires that all papers submitted include a title page, introduction, summary, and references. The Sample Paper provided at the Walden Writing Center provides an example of those required elements (available at https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/writingcenter/templates/general#s-lg-box-20293632Links to an external site.). All papers submitted must use this formatting.

NURS_8002_Module1_Assignment_Rubric

Alignment with Walden’s Vision, Mission, Social Change Message, and University Outcomes and AACN DNP Essentials:

In alignment with Walden University’s institutional vision and mission, I endeavor to embark upon a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) journey that is intrinsically interwoven with the institution’s core principles and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) DNP Essentials.

Walden’s mission statement underscores the cultivation of scholar-practitioners who not only strive for academic excellence but are also committed to catalyzing positive societal change through their professional roles. My pursuit of DNP preparation unequivocally parallels this commitment, as it inherently embodies the aspiration to evolve into a nursing professional capable of initiating transformative changes within healthcare systems.

Furthermore, Walden’s vision of a world where knowledge serves as an enabling force for individuals’ aspirations finds resonance in my academic ambitions. The pursuit of higher education, epitomized by a DNP degree, serves as a stepping stone to ameliorate healthcare practices and engender equitable health outcomes, aligning unequivocally with the university’s core vision.

The institution’s social change message is not merely an abstract concept but a guiding principle that informs my academic and professional trajectory. My objectives encompass the cultivation of competencies that enable me to be a proactive agent of social change, addressing disparities in healthcare delivery, advocating for vulnerable populations, and initiating policy reform. These pursuits are tangible manifestations of my commitment to the university’s message of positive societal transformation.

Additionally, Walden University’s identified outcomes, including critical thinking, effective communication, and ethical practice, seamlessly converge with the requisites delineated in the AACN DNP Essentials. My aspiration to attain these outcomes complements the AACN’s stipulations for DNP-prepared nursing professionals and serves as a pivotal bridge between my academic ambitions and the profession’s established competencies.

Incorporating Social Change:

The pursuit of incorporating social change within the framework of my academic journey and professional practice is characterized by deliberate and strategic endeavors. It signifies not only an intellectual commitment but a moral obligation incumbent upon a DNP-prepared nursing professional.

Within the confines of my academic journey, I envisage the infusion of social change principles into each facet of my coursework. This entails critically analyzing healthcare policies, evaluating their implications on vulnerable populations, and advocating for evidence-based reforms. By doing so, I intend to craft a foundation that nurtures a thorough understanding of the societal dynamics that influence healthcare delivery.

My practicum/field experience is conceived as a practical manifestation of my commitment to social change. In this context, I envision immersion within a healthcare setting that caters to underserved populations. Through active engagement with patients and communities, I seek to comprehend the intricacies of healthcare disparities, identify the social determinants of health at play, and devise interventions aimed at equitable health outcomes. My role during this experience extends beyond the provision of clinical care; it encompasses advocacy, education, and mobilization of resources to ameliorate the health status of marginalized groups.

In the realm of professional practice, I visualize myself as an orchestrator of change. My leadership role as a DNP-prepared nursing professional will involve spearheading healthcare initiatives, promoting healthcare policies that engender equity, and assuming positions of influence where I can effectuate meaningful reforms. Social change, in this context, is not an ancillary pursuit but a central tenet of my professional identity.

In summation, the integration of social change into my academic and professional voyage is an ethically charged commitment to being a catalyst for positive transformation within the realm of healthcare. It is not a mere aspiration but an imperative that underscores the essence of a DNP-prepared nursing professional’s role in contemporary society.

NURS 8002 AACN Competencies and the Walden Mission, Vision, and Outcomes

NURS 8002 AACN Competencies and the Walden Mission, Vision, and Outcomes

Discussion 2: AACN Competencies and the Walden Mission, Vision, and Outcomes.  

Competent leadership is an essential component in nursing training and professionalism. Leadership development has been a bedrock of Walden University programs and services. The special attention accorded to leadership development is crucial in influencing students under nursing training to become leaders in their profession to contribute to high-quality healthcare delivery. Healthcare organizations provide a positive social service, and nurses should be instrumental change agents in these institutions so that healthcare becomes more accessible to everyone.

The American Association of College of Nursing (AACN) is a quintessential organization within the academic nursing community that advocates for advancing diversity and inclusivity. Its position statement regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion in nursing academics reflects Walden University’s core interests. America is increasingly becoming a multicultural diverse society, and it is projected that immigrants will account for a higher percentage of U.S population growth (Biggerstaff & Skomra, 2020). Moreover, discerning ways of caring for a culturally diverse society is crucial for implementing well-being and positive health outcomes (Zaccagnini & Pechacek, 2021). The Walden University inclusivity in the admission process is crucial for developing culturally competent nurses at the forefront of implementing social justice in various organizations and hospitals of practice. Receiving enlightenment on different cultural values and communication styles is crucial in reducing unconscious racial bias and promoting positive health outcomes in patients.

Applying a positive social change is one of the core values that Walden University roots for. As it is succinctly stated, incorporating social change encompasses the graduate’s ability to generate creative ideas, strategies, and actions that would promote worth and dignity across a spectrum of individuals, communities, organizations, and cultures. The will to help other people has been the core foundation for pursuing a nursing degree. Therefore, I plan to incorporate social change with the knowledge gained from the School of Nursing’s rigorous training by putting that knowledge into practice. As a family nurse practitioner working in a clinic setting, I constantly endeavor to encourage families to strengthen their health or sickness relationships by providing truthful information, being dependable, and providing emotional support to the patients. According to Hafskjold et al. (2017), expressing emotional affections promote a caring relationship based on mutual trust and support. I underscore to my patients the fact that they should be physically and emotionally affectionate to each other during illness to help them cope successfully and promote positive health outcomes.

References

Biggerstaff, M. E., & Skomra, T. S. (2020). Nurses as immigrant advocates: A brief overview. OJIN: The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing, 25(2). https://ojin.nursingworld.org/MainMenuCategories/ANAMarketplace/ANAPeriodicals/OJIN/TableofContents/Vol-25-2020/No2-May-2020/Articles-Previous-Topics/Nurses-as-Immigrant-Advocates-A-Brief-Overview.html

Hafskjold, L., Sundling, V., van Dulmen, S., & Eide, H. (2017). The use of supportive communication when responding to older people’s emotional distress in home care — An observational study. BMC Nursing, 16, 1–12. https://doi-org.ezp.waldenulibrary.org/10.1186/s12912-017-0220-8

Jongen, C., McCalman, J., & Bainbridge, R. (2018). Health workforce cultural competency interventions: a systematic scoping review. BMC Health Services Research, 18(1), 232. https://doi-org.ezp.waldenulibrary.org/10.1186/s12913-018-3001-5

Zaccagnini, M. & Pechacek, J. M. (2021). The doctor of nursing practice essentials: A new model for advanced practice nursing (4^th ed.).  Jones & Bartlett.

The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) set forth a set of standards, the DNP Essentials, that define the foundational competencies that should be acquired and focused throughout a DNP degree program’s curriculum. Additionally, the DNP Essentials represent those competencies and areas that will inform your areas of practice as a DNP-prepared nurse. Take special note that in addition to your personal and academic motivations for pursuing a DNP degree, you will be required to demonstrate and enact these essentials in your daily practice.

Photo Credit: Coloures-Pic/Adobe Stock

For this Assignment, review the AACN DNP Essentials document and reflect on the competencies presented. Reflect on your personal and academic goals and consider how those goals align with both Walden University’s mission and vision and with the AACN DNP Essentials.

To prepare:

• Review The Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice (AACN, 2006) in this week’s Learning Resources and reflect on the competencies presented.
• Review Walden University’s mission, vision, and university outcomes.
• Reflect on your professional and academic goals. Consider how Walden’s mission and vision as well as the AACN’s perspective may fit with your goals. How might you incorporate a commitment to social change into your academic and professional plans?

The Assignment: (2–3 pages)

• Explain how your academic and professional goals align with Walden’s vision, mission, social change message, and university outcomes and the AACN DNP Essentials. Be specific.
• Explain how you plan to incorporate social change throughout your program of study and in professional practice. Be sure to include how social change may contribute to your practicum/field experience and your role in professional practice.

Reminder: The College of Nursing requires that all papers submitted include a title page, introduction, summary, and references. The Sample Paper provided at the Walden Writing Center provides an example of those required elements (available at https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/writingcenter/templates/general#s-lg-box-20293632). All papers submitted must use this formatting.

Florence Nightingale considered nursing to be a science and an art, therefore she introduced and promoted holistic health which included the mind, body, and spirit as essential components of nursing care (AACN, 2021).  She also believed that environmental influences (social, political, and economic), had a great impact on a person’s recovery from illness or injury (AACN, 2021).  Health and healing, the well-being of the whole person, plus interactions with the environment and other humans became the focus of nursing’s committed, collective efforts to serve society (AACN, 2021).  Over the years, nursing has undergone ideological changes, but the need to preserve the ethical, conceptual, and theoretical concepts as the foundation of the discipline has remained ever the same (AACN, 2021).  Therefore, the higher education of nurses is imperative.  Core competencies have been established so that each level of nursing education measures up to the expectations that have been put into place for that specific area of study (AACN, 2021).  This means that competency-based education is directly linked to performance where in knowledge and action give meaning to theory (AACN, 2021).

The AACN Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education (2021), defines the 10 Domains or areas of competency in nursing and what is expected at each level (BSN, MSN, & Doctoral), along with featured concepts that compliment professional nursing practice such as clinical judgement, compassionate care, and communication skills (AACN, 2021).  Walden’s Vision, Mission, and Goals Statement fully supports the AACNs nursing competencies in that it strives for higher education in order to improve the human and social condition by transforming scholarly practitioners who can serve as social change agents (Walden University, 2021).  Walden provides for diversity in the student population, preserving the worth and dignity of individuals, while fostering an environment that promotes ethical and critical thinking for the betterment of society (Walden University, 2021).  The AACN and Walden University believe that health policy and population health should be centered around equity, diversity, and inclusion.  This absolutely relates to both my personal and professional goals and my view of what ethical and holistic nursing entails.  I believe all humans should have access to healthcare, not just the wealthy.  I also believe we have a lot of work that needs to be done to make that happen across the board.  There are a lot of different opinions out there about how it can or should be done, but I think all agree on one point, it isn’t going to be an easy task.

As graduates of Walden University and students of AACN policy, it becomes our duty to act as the social change agents we have been discussing.  We hear a lot about improving care delivery to patients and achieving optimal outcomes, but what does that really mean to the novice NP?  I plan to make a concentrated effort to become involved in quality improvement efforts at whatever facility I find employment as an AGACNP.  By joining committees and becoming a critical decision maker, I can effect positive change and fight against social injustice (Boucher, McMillen, & Gould, 2015).  I plan to remain a lifelong learner and use my bedside experience combined with my higher education as an APN to promote intellectual debate and stimulate others to think outside the box by publishing what I hope will be insightful articles and perhaps even a book or two as time goes by.  I have a lot to say about the nursing profession and that is one way I can get it out there.  As nursing moves into the 21^st century, complex choices and options will continue to evolve (O’Grady, 2001).  As a graduate of Walden University, I feel I will be well equipped to keep up with the changes and I’m looking forward to completing my DNP education at Walden.

By Day 7 of Week 3

Submit your Assignment by Day 7 of Week 3.

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DISCUSSION 2 RESPONSE

Health care needs for every population change from time to time. The situation requires well-trained nurses with a high level of judgment and critical thinking. Additionally, the institution is built with the socio-cultural and moral responsibility of the community. The learner’s initial post singled out a culturally sensitive nurse who respects the culture and lifestyle of a community (Gates, 2018). That is a relevant quality of a baccalaureate-trained nurse. An advanced practice registered nurse works collaboratively with different teams to achieve a high-quality patient outcome.

An institution like Walden University can initiate a socio-cultural change to support the growth of its environment. It can share its values and beliefs with the authorities of the community to share a common interest. The university can raise an educated and sound generation of graduates in nursing practice and other fields to initiate positive change in the health sector (Lawrence et al, 2018). A well-trained nursing workforce of master and doctor of nursing practice is important for bridging the gap between the minority and the privileged group. The nurse works in the community to diagnose and treat conditions that result in poor lifestyle or diet.

The practitioner conducts appropriate health education and disease prevention strategies for high-risk individuals. The main goal and objective of a highly trained, clinical, and competent nurse are to empower the young generation of novice nurses to find direction for career progress (Mackay et al, 2017). Take part in conferences, talks, and mentoring strategies promotes unity and passion for the profession. Therefore, the American Association of Colleges of nursing should have the mandate to promote educational advancement and career progression to Doctor of nursing practice levels.

What’s Coming Up in Module 2?

Photo Credit: [BrianAJackson]/[iStock / Getty Images Plus]/Getty Images

In the next module, you will analyze the roles and expectations associated with the DNP-prepared nurse. You will also examine the alignment between the AACN DNP Essentials and your practicum/field experience and Doctoral Project requirements.

Looking Ahead: Week 5 Assignment

In Week 5, you will select at least 3 AACN DNP Essentials that most align to the completion of a Doctoral Project. You will also explain how the AACN DNP Essentials you selected will relate to the completion of a practicum/field experience.

Although you will submit the Week 5 Assignment by Day 7 of Week 5, it is highly encouraged that you reflect on the AACN DNP Essentials you consulted this week and review the requirements to begin your preparation for completing the Week 5 Assignment this week.

Photo Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto

Next Module

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Module 2

Building on what you have said, I would add that the AACN has worked hard to refine NP Core Competencies so as to reflect the most up to date requirements for the current state of healthcare (Chan, Lockhart, Schreiber, & Kronk, 2020).  The goal is to ensure that DNP students gain highly specific skills sets that evolve from Competency Based Education (CBE) as set forth by the Domains of Nursing or observable and measurable aspects of performance that allows the student to demonstrate competent, fully functional abilities in order to provide safe, quality care to a wide variety of patient populations, while promoting social justice and equality in medicine (Chan et al., 2020).  Graduates of DNP programs possess the evidenced-based knowledge, practical experience, and professional attitudes necessary to advocate and facilitate changes that will shape future healthcare policies (Mullin, 2019).

The attainment of social justice and equity in healthcare is a lofty goal, but it doesn’t have to be “pie in the sky”.  DNP graduates need to cultivate leadership skills that entitle them to pull up a chair and sit at the big table where the crucial decisions that affect nursing and medical practice are rolled out (Mullin, 2019).  This will allow nursing representatives to have an influential voice in political decision making and social change policies where it has the greatest impact on professional nursing (Mullin, 2019).  DNP graduates should be the gold standard in Advanced Nursing Practice because as leaders in the field there is no area of institutional, local, state, regional, and federal politics where knowledge of health policy, expert experience in evidenced-based research, and influential advocacy in practice cannot serve to promote proactive development and implementation of social change policy for the betterment of society and population health (Mullin, 2019).

Two nursing organizations that are full service professional organizations the DNP student can join so as to advance political abilities and become agents of social change are the American Nurse’s Association (ANA) and the International Council of Nurses (ICN) (Matthews, 2012).

Thank you for your excellent post

References

Chan, T. E., Lockhart, J. S., Schreiber, J. B., & Kronk, R.  (2020).  Determining nurse practitioner core competencies using a Delphi approach.  J Am Assoc Nurse Pract, 32(3), 200-217.  doi: 10.1097/JXX.0000000000000384.PMID: 32132457.

Matthews, J.  (2012).  Role of professional organizations in advocacy for the nursing profession.  OJIN: The Online Journal of Nursing, 17(1).  Manuscript 3.  doi: 10.3912/OJIN.Vol17no01Man03.

Mullin, M. H.  (2019).  Chapter 5: DNP involvement in healthcare policy.  In Chism, L. A. (4^th Ed).  Doctor of Nursing Practice: A Guidebook for Role Development and Professional Issues (131-156).  Burlington, MA.  Jones & Bartlett.

This is insightful Edwige, Bottom of FormAccountable Care Organizations (ACOs) are groups of doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare providers who come together to provide coordinated care to their patients (Colla & Fisher, 2018). The goal of ACOs is to improve the quality of care while also reducing costs. One way that ACOs achieve this goal is by sharing information about their patients (Meyer et al., 2017). This allows the providers in the ACO to work together to come up with a plan for each patient that meets their individual needs. ACOs can also use this information to track how well they are meeting quality and cost goals (Lewis et al., 2019). ACOs are funded in part by Medicare and Medicaid. However, they are also open to patients who have private insurance. ACOs have been shown to improve the quality of care while reducing costs. For example, a study published in Health Affairs found that ACOs were associated with improvements in quality of care and reductions in spending on Medicare patients.

References

Colla, H., & Fisher, E. S. (2018). Moving forward with accountable care organizations: some answers, more questions. JAMA internal medicine, 177(4), 527-528. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamainternmed.2016.9122

Lewis, V. A., Schoenherr, K., Fraze, T., & Cunningham, A. (2019). Clinical coordination in accountable care organizations: A qualitative study. Health care management review, 44(2), 127. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5461217/

Meyer, C. P., Krasnova, A., Sammon, J. D., Lipsitz, S. R., Weissman, J. S., Sun, M., & Trinh, Q. D. (2017). Accountable care organizations and the use of cancer screening. Preventive medicine, 101, 15-17. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ypmed.2017.05.017

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AACN Competencies and the school Mission, Vision, and Outcomes

According to a Gallup poll completed in 2013, 82% of respondents indicated that they believe nurses have high to very high levels of honesty and ethical standards, and nursing has been rated as the most trusted profession for several years (Gallup, 2010). What other values and characteristics are associated with the nursing profession? Which ones are the most professionally, academically, and personally significant to you?

For this Discussion, you will consider the alignment of qualities outlined by the AACN with those promoted by Walden University. AACN Competencies and the school Mission, Vision, and Outcomes.

You will examine the AACN document appropriate for your degree path and consider how you can incorporate either the Essentials or the Quality Indicators into your academic endeavors.

To prepare:

• Consider the competencies presented in The Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice (for DNP students) or The Research-Focused Doctoral Program in Nursing: Pathways to Excellence (for PhD students) in this week’s Learning Resources.
• Examine Walden University’s mission, vision, and university outcomes.
• Review the media presentation Introduction: The Doctor of Nursing Practice, which includes Dr. Joan Stanley’s comments about the AACN’s vision for the DNP degree. AACN Competencies and the school Mission, Vision, and Outcomes.
• Identify commonalities among the concepts presented in each of these items.
• Think about your professional and academic goals. Consider how Walden’s standpoint and the AACN’s perspective fit with your objectives. Based on this information, what ideas do you have for incorporating a commitment to social change into your academic and professional plans? AACN Competencies and the school Mission, Vision, and Outcomes.

By Wednesday 6/7/17, post 550 words essay in APA format with 3 references from the list below, that include the level one headings as numbered below:

Post a cohesive response that addresses the following:

1)       Describe one or more significant ways in which Walden’s standpoint (i.e., vision, mission, social change message, and outcomes) relates to the AACN competencies as well as to your professional and academic goals.

2)       Articulate a plan for incorporating social change into two of your professional and/or academic goals.

Required Readings

American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). (2006). The essentials of doctoral education for advanced nursing practice. Washington, DC:Author. Retrieved from http://www.aacn.nche.edu/DNP/pdf/Essentials.pdf AACN Competencies and the school Mission, Vision, and Outcomes

[For DNP students ONLY]

American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). (2006). The research-focused doctoral program in nursing: Pathways to excellence. Washington, DC: Author. Retrieved from http://www.aacn.nche.edu/education-resources/PhDPosition.pdf

“The Research-Focused Doctoral Program in Nursing: Pathways to Excellence” (pp. 4–16)

This section of the AACN document outlines the roles and expected learning outcomes for PhD students, and core curricular elements included in PhD programs. AACN Competencies and the school Mission, Vision, and Outcomes.

Walden University Student Readiness Orientation

Access the Student Readiness Orientation (SRO) through the “My Courses” section of Blackboard. It will be available to you for one year. You can find the same information and more in the e-Guide, a companion website to the SRO. The e-Guide is available throughout your time at Walden. It can be accessed through the MyWalden Portal.

 Walden University. (2011). Student publications: Vision, mission, and goals. Retrieved from http://catalog.waldenu.edu/

Select the current version of the “Walden University Student Handbook” from the drop-down menu.

In the left navigation bar, click “Introduction and Legal Information.” AACN Competencies and the school Mission, Vision, and Outcomes.

Then click “Vision, Mission, and Goals.”

Read the information on the Walden University webpage, paying particular attention to Walden’s Vision, Mission, Goals, Social Change, and Outcomes message.

Document: Becoming a Successful Online Learner (PDF) (See attached PDF file)

This document contains valuable information, tips, and strategies for becoming a successful online learner in the DNP program.

 Document: Citing a Discussion Posting in APA Style (PDF) (See attached PDF file)

The information in this document focuses on how to cite a Discussion posting or response in APA style. AACN Competencies and the school Mission, Vision, and Outcomes.

Document: Technical Tips for Learning at Walden (PDF) (See attached PDF file)

Tips for working with various technologies, such as word-processing software, online classroom features, and your myWalden page, are addressed in this document.

In this module, you begin laying the foundation for your academic and professional success. Your efforts begin with a vision that includes your own definition of success. Your vision may vary from those of your colleagues, but this does not mean you have to take these first steps alone.

Walden University and the College of Nursing also have a vision and mission, which include helping you to make your own vision a reality. Members of your new academic community, such as faculty, support teams, and fellow students, can also be helpful. Current practitioners and other member of the professional community can also help you to clarify your vision.

This Module’s Discussion asks you to consider how the Walden mission and vision as well as the College of Nursing’s mission and vision apply to your professional and academic goals. You will also begin to identify individuals and teams who can help you along the way as you begin designing the “blueprint”—your Academic Success and Professional Development Plan—that will guide you toward your own vision for academic and professional success.

To Prepare:

Review the Walden and College of Nursing mission and vision statements, Walden’s goals and University Outcomes, and the MSN Program Learning Outcomes presented in this Module’s Learning Resources.

Reflect on your professional and academic goals as they relate to your program/specialization.

Consider how the information in these resources fit with your own goals and to your becoming a scholar-practitioner.

Also consider academic and professional individuals and teams with whom you may collaborate in support of your efforts as a student at the university and as a professional within your organization and career.

By Day 3 of Week 1

Post a brief introduction of yourself to your colleagues. Include an explanation as to how Walden’s vision, mission, goals, and social change initiatives relate to your professional and academic goals and to your becoming a scholar-practitioner. Also include an explanation for how the Walden MSN Program Outcomes and perspectives relate to your professional and academic goals and to your becoming a scholar-practitioner.

By Day 6 of Week 1

Respond to at least two of your colleagues’ posts by suggesting additional individuals and/or teams with whom you wish to collaborate or by offering additional networking strategies.

NURS6003 Transition to Graduate Study

Week 2 Discussion

Strategies for Addressing Questions

In Module 1, you began building a foundation for your success by considering a network-individuals and teams who can help you to clarify and execute on the vision. A network is most helpful when you are comfortable asking questions. Chances are other members of your network have experienced similar questions and may have helped guide others toward resolutions that can now be helpful.

In this Discussion, focus on the questions you are ready to ask as your journey begins. Keep in mind that sharing questions is often a great way to help others who have similar questions even if they do not realize it!

To prepare:

Reflect on questions or concerns you might have as you begin the MSN program.

Consider the individuals, teams, and departments you previously considered in Module 1 as well as how they may provide support with addressing these questions and concerns.

By Day 3 of Week 2

Post any questions or concerns that you are willing to share with the group. The Discussion board represents an opportunity to network with your course colleagues, and others may have the same questions or concerns.

By Day 6 of Week 2

Respond to at least two of your colleagues’ posts by offering a possible resolution to their questions/concerns with supporting documentation, if possible, or expanding on their thinking and providing an example as support.

Click on the Reply button below to reveal the textbox for entering your message. Then click on the Submit button to post your message.

NURS6003 Transition to Graduate Study

Week 6 Discussion

Using the Walden Library

Where can you find evidence to inform your thoughts and scholarly writing? Throughout your degree program, you will use research literature to explore ideas, guide your thinking, and gain new insights. As you search the research literature, it is important to use resources that are peer-reviewed and from scholarly journals. You may already have some favorite online resources and databases that you use or have found useful in the past. For this Discussion, you explore databases available through the Walden Library.

To Prepare:

Review the information presented in the Learning Resources for using the Walden Library, searching the databases, and evaluating online resources.

Begin searching for a peer-reviewed article that pertains to your practice area and interests you.

By Day 3 of Week 6

Post the following:

Using proper APA formatting, cite the peer-reviewed article you selected that pertains to your practice area and is of particular interest to you and identify the database that you used to search for the article. Explain any difficulties you experienced while searching for this article. Would this database be useful to your colleagues? Explain why or why not. Would you recommend this database? Explain why or why not

By Day 6 of Week 6

Respond to at least two of your colleagues’ posts by offering suggestions/strategies for working with this database from your own experience, or offering ideas for using alternative resources.

Click on the Reply button below to reveal the textbox for entering your message. Then click on the Submit button to post your message.

NURS6003 Transition to Graduate Study

Week 8 Discussion

Strategies for Academic Portfolios

In the realm of marketing, a successful branding strategy is one of the most important contributors to organizational success. A solid branding strategy can help add visibility and credibility to a company’s products.

Similarly, nurse-scholars can build a personal brand to add visibility and credibility to their work. You can begin building your brand by developing and maintaining an academic portfolio. Such an activity can help share the results of your efforts and contribute to your success. This Module’s Discussion asks you to consider and share strategies for building your portfolio.

To Prepare:

Reflect on strategies that you can pursue in developing portfolios or portfolio elements that focus on academic achievements.

Review one or more samples from your own research of resources focused on portfolio development.

By Day 3 of Week 8

Post an explanation of at least two strategies for including academic activities and accomplishments into your professional portfolio.

By Day 6 of Week 8

Respond to at least two of your colleagues’ posts by offering additional ideas regarding academic achievements to include or offering alternative ways of presenting the current achievements.Click on the Reply button below to reveal the textbox for entering your message. Then click on the Submit button to post your message.

NURS6003 Transition to Graduate Study

Week 10 Discussion

Examining Nursing Specialties

You have probably seen one or more of the many inspirational posters about decisions. A visual such as a forked road or a street sign is typically pictured, along with a quote designed to inspire.

Decisions are often not so easily inspired. Perhaps you discovered this when choosing a specialty within the MSN program. This decision is a critical part of your plan for success, and you no doubt want to get it right. This is yet another area where your network can help, as well as other sources of information that can help you make an informed choice.

To Prepare:

Reflect on your decision to pursue a specialty within the MSN program, including your professional and academic goals as they relate to your program/specialization.

By Day 3 of Week 10

Post an explanation of your choice of a nursing specialty within the program. Describe any difficulties you had (or are having) in making your choice, and the factors that drove/are driving your decision. Identify at least one professional organization affiliated with your chosen specialty and provide details on becoming a member.

By Day 6 of Week 10

Respond to at least two of your colleagues’ posts by sharing your thoughts on their specialty, supporting their choice or offering suggestions if they have yet to choose.

Required Media

Laureate Education (Producer). (2011b). Introduction: The doctor of nursing practice [Video file]. Retrieved from https://class.waldenu.edu.

Please review this media in the Week 1 Resources.

Laureate Education (Producer). (2012a). Effective online communication: Scholarly writing in online discussion [Video file]. Retrieved from https://class.waldenu.edu

Note:  The approximate length of this media piece is 5 minutes.

This media program presents valuable tips for writing scholarly Discussion posts. AACN Competencies and the school Mission, Vision, and Outcomes.

Laureate Education (Producer). (2012f). Tips for effective online composition and communication [Video file]. Retrieved from https://class.waldenu.edu

Note:  The approximate length of this media piece is 7 minutes. AACN Competencies and the school Mission, Vision, and Outcomes.

This media program provides essential insights and information regarding the differences between online and in-person communication, the importance of tone in your e-communications, and how to write effective e-mail messages. All of these skills are essential to your success as an online learner.

Optional Resources

Westwood, C. (2010). Six simple steps to ensure you achieve your aims. Nursing Management, 17(4), 28–29.

Note: You will access this article from the Walden Library databases. AACN Competencies and the school Mission, Vision, and Outcomes.

NURS 8000 Discussion 2: AACN Competencies and the Walden Mission, Vision, and Outcomes

NURS 8000 Discussion 2: AACN Competencies and the Walden Mission, Vision, and Outcomes

The AACN developed the DNP essentials, which define the elements and competencies that the curriculum for a degree in Doctor of Nursing Practice must have. The AACN outlines eight essentials, which are considered the basic outcome competencies regarded as essential for every DNP graduate in spite of their nursing specialty or career focus (AACN, 2006). The Walden University mission is offering a diversified community of professionals with a chance to revolutionize themselves from scholar to practitioners to bring about positive social change (Walden University, 2021). Additionally, the Walden University foresees a uniquely diverse 21st-century learning community where knowledge is deemed valuable to the program that it can be employed by its learners to the solutions of vital challenges in the society, thus enhancing the overall global good.

            The Walden University’s standpoint relates to the AACN competencies, including

Essential I, Scientific Underpinnings for Practice. The AACN Essential I states that DNP-prepared nurses should have broad and deep knowledge gained from sciences and should demonstrate the translation of that scientific knowledge promptly and efficiently to assist patients in the daily needs in the practice setting (AACN, 2006). Walden’s mission relates to this competency as it offers its students the opportunity to scholarly transforms themselves to bring about positive social change (Walden University, 2021). DNP students at Walden can become scholar-practitioners and effect positive health outcomes in society through putting evidence-based research into practice. They can also establish new strategies that can improve communities’ health outcomes and promote better outcomes in specific patient populations.

Walden’s standpoint is also support the AACN essential III on Clinical Scholarship and Analytical Methods for EBP. Essential III explains that the DNP learner should apply knowledge to find solutions to challenges in practice through the scholarship of nursing practice (AACN, 2006). The Walden standpoint relates to essential III since it aims at having learners applying knowledge to identify immediate solutions to societal challenges.

My academic and professional goals are to improve health outcomes among individuals diagnosed with chronic illnesses. I also aim at making our communities healthier through sustainable and socially acceptable health promotion interventions. Walden’s standpoint relates to my goals as it encourages a learning community where scholars apply knowledge to solve crucial societal challenges (Walden University, 2021). My professional goals challenge me to make a difference in the community by addressing the common health challenges encountered in the community I live. Besides, promoting a healthier community through health promotion interventions will help shape a better world and advance the greater global good.

I will incorporate social change in the academic goal of improving health outcomes among individuals diagnosed with chronic illnesses by researching and identifying evidence-based community interventions that can promote better health outcomes. For instance, I will examine interventions that have effectively reduced morbidity rates in persons with chronic conditions such as diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases (Phillips, 2019). I will also collaborate with an interdisciplinary team, which will help me implement the interventions in the community and measure their impact in achieving the overall goal (Phillips, 2019). Furthermore, I will incorporate social change to make communities healthier through sustainable and socially acceptable health promotion interventions by focusing on real-world applications that can improve the health of individuals (Phillips, 2019). I will also research theories and evidence-based strategies that engender positive social change.

References

American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (2006). DNP essentials: the essentials of doctoral education for advanced nursing practice. https://www.aacnnursing.org/DNP/DNP-Essentials

Phillips, A. (2019). Effective approaches to health promotion in nursing practice. Nursing Standard. https://doi.org/10.7748/ns.2019.e11312

Walden University. (2021). Social change. Accredited Online University | Online Degree Programs | Walden University. https://www.waldenu.edu/why-walden/social-change#mission

NURS 8000 Discussion 2: AACN Competencies and the Walden Mission, Vision, and Outcomes

The AACN developed the DNP essentials, which define the elements and competencies that the curriculum for a degree in Doctor of Nursing Practice must have. The AACN outlines eight essentials, which are considered the basic outcome competencies regarded as essential for every DNP graduate in spite of their nursing specialty or career focus (AACN, 2006). The Walden University mission is offering a diversified community of professionals with a chance to revolutionize themselves from scholar to practitioners to bring about positive social change (Walden University, 2021). Additionally, the Walden University foresees a uniquely diverse 21st-century learning community where knowledge is deemed valuable to the program that it can be employed by its learners to the solutions of vital challenges in the society, thus enhancing the overall global good.

The Walden University’s standpoint relates to the AACN competencies, including

Essential I, Scientific Underpinnings for Practice. The AACN Essential I states that DNP-prepared nurses should have broad and deep knowledge gained from sciences and should demonstrate the translation of that scientific knowledge promptly and efficiently to assist patients in the daily needs in the practice setting (AACN, 2006). Walden’s mission relates to this competency as it offers its students the opportunity to scholarly transforms themselves to bring about positive social change (Walden University, 2021). DNP students at Walden can become scholar-practitioners and effect positive health outcomes in society through putting evidence-based research into practice. They can also establish new strategies that can improve communities’ health outcomes and promote better outcomes in specific patient populations.

Walden’s standpoint is also support the AACN essential III on Clinical Scholarship and Analytical Methods for EBP. Essential III explains that the DNP learner should apply knowledge to find solutions to challenges in practice through the scholarship of nursing practice (AACN, 2006). The Walden standpoint relates to essential III since it aims at having learners applying knowledge to identify immediate solutions to societal challenges.

My academic and professional goals are to improve health outcomes among individuals diagnosed with chronic illnesses. I also aim at making our communities healthier through sustainable and socially acceptable health promotion interventions. Walden’s standpoint relates to my goals as it encourages a learning community where scholars apply knowledge to solve crucial societal challenges (Walden University, 2021). My professional goals challenge me to make a difference in the community by addressing the common health challenges encountered in the community I live. Besides, promoting a healthier community through health promotion interventions will help shape a better world and advance the greater global good.

I will incorporate social change in the academic goal of improving health outcomes among individuals diagnosed with chronic illnesses by researching and identifying evidence-based community interventions that can promote better health outcomes. For instance, I will examine interventions that have effectively reduced morbidity rates in persons with chronic conditions such as diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases (Phillips, 2019). I will also collaborate with an interdisciplinary team, which will help me implement the interventions in the community and measure their impact in achieving the overall goal (Phillips, 2019). Furthermore, I will incorporate social change to make communities healthier through sustainable and socially acceptable health promotion interventions by focusing on real-world applications that can improve the health of individuals (Phillips, 2019). I will also research theories and evidence-based strategies that engender positive social change.

 References

American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (2006). DNP essentials: the essentials of doctoral education for advanced nursing practice. https://www.aacnnursing.org/DNP/DNP-Essentials

Phillips, A. (2019). Effective approaches to health promotion in nursing practice. Nursing Standard. https://doi.org/10.7748/ns.2019.e11312

Walden University. (2021). Social change. Accredited Online University | Online Degree Programs | Walden University. https://www.waldenu.edu/why-walden/social-change#mission

Building on what you have said, I would add that the AACN has worked hard to refine NP Core Competencies so as to reflect the most up to date requirements for the current state of healthcare (Chan, Lockhart, Schreiber, & Kronk, 2020).  The goal is to ensure that DNP students gain highly specific skills sets that evolve from Competency Based Education (CBE) as set forth by the Domains of Nursing or observable and measurable aspects of performance that allows the student to demonstrate competent, fully functional abilities in order to provide safe, quality care to a wide variety of patient populations, while promoting social justice and equality in medicine (Chan et al., 2020).  Graduates of DNP programs possess the evidenced-based knowledge, practical experience, and professional attitudes necessary to advocate and facilitate changes that will shape future healthcare policies (Mullin, 2019).

The attainment of social justice and equity in healthcare is a lofty goal, but it doesn’t have to be “pie in the sky”.  DNP graduates need to cultivate leadership skills that entitle them to pull up a chair and sit at the big table where the crucial decisions that affect nursing and medical practice are rolled out (Mullin, 2019).  This will allow nursing representatives to have an influential voice in political decision making and social change policies where it has the greatest impact on professional nursing (Mullin, 2019).  DNP graduates should be the gold standard in Advanced Nursing Practice because as leaders in the field there is no area of institutional, local, state, regional, and federal politics where knowledge of health policy, expert experience in evidenced-based research, and influential advocacy in practice cannot serve to promote proactive development and implementation of social change policy for the betterment of society and population health (Mullin, 2019).

Two nursing organizations that are full service professional organizations the DNP student can join so as to advance political abilities and become agents of social change are the American Nurse’s Association (ANA) and the International Council of Nurses (ICN) (Matthews, 2012).

Thank you for your excellent post, Mary Ann Keith-Marcus

References

Chan, T. E., Lockhart, J. S., Schreiber, J. B., & Kronk, R.  (2020).  Determining nurse practitioner core competencies using a Delphi approach.  J Am Assoc Nurse Pract, 32(3), 200-217.  doi: 10.1097/JXX.0000000000000384.PMID: 32132457.

Matthews, J.  (2012).  Role of professional organizations in advocacy for the nursing profession.  OJIN: The Online Journal of Nursing, 17(1).  Manuscript 3.  doi: 10.3912/OJIN.Vol17no01Man03.

Mullin, M. H.  (2019).  Chapter 5: DNP involvement in healthcare policy.  In Chism, L. A. (4^th Ed).  Doctor of Nursing Practice: A Guidebook for Role Development and Professional Issues (131-156).  Burlington, MA.  Jones & Bartlett.

Describe one or more significant ways in which Walden’s standpoint (i.e., vision, mission, social change message, and outcomes) relates to the AACN competencies as well as to your professional and academic goals.

Articulate a plan for incorporating social change into two of your professional and/or academic goals.

The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) is the driving force behind institutional nursing creativity and excellence. AACN encourages public support for advanced nursing education, science, and practice by developing quality standards for nursing education, assisting schools in enforcing such standards, influencing the nursing profession to improve health care (AACN, 2021).

Consistent with Walden university’s vision and mission in establishing an educational model that encourages science, experimentation, and critical thought, as well as professional excellence. Producing knowledgeable graduates, reflective practitioners, and agents of positive social change. Walden University offers a vibrant population of career experts the ability to turn into scholar-practitioners that can make a difference in the world (Walden University, 2011). DNP prepared nurses become leaders in the growing health care industry and make a considerable impact in the delivery of high-quality patient care; innovation of needed advanced competencies for increasingly complex practice, faculty, and leadership roles; enhancing knowledge to improve nursing practice and patient outcomes as well as fostering enhanced leadership skills to strengthen practice and health care delivery (AACN, 2006)

According to Walden University, positive social change is a process by which the creation and application of ideas promote an environment of worth and development that the collective can benefit from, thereby advancing human and social conditions. This environment provides a solid social and intellectual foundation where products and programs from Walden University can flourish. Furthermore, Walden University supports this environment through the development of principled, erudite, and ethical practitioners who are on the path to becoming civic and professional role models. Thereby validating a lifelong learning commitment and positively impacting communities and society. (Walden University, 2011).

References

American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). (2006). The essentials of doctoral education for

advanced nursing practice. Washington, DC: Author. Retrieved from

http://www.aacnnursing.org/DNP/DNP-Essentials

American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). (2021). Retrieved from

Nursing education is a dynamic process that teaches us to have specific core values and characteristics necessary for succeeding in the nursing profession. Integrity stands out for me with its multiple features as it cuts across all life areas, including personal, professional, social, and academics. Having Integrity is being honest, accountable, and dependable, to name a few. It’s a quality that I always look for in an employer or school. As a Leader, our actions, decisions, and words impact healthcare and patient outcomes. Our education and core values shape who we are and how we affect change. The Doctor of nursing program will allow me to develop as a leader, providing me with the advanced skills and knowledge required to implement and sustain evidence-based practice changes.

Walden University and The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) mission, values, and social change values are well aligned. Both make clear statements on upholding high integrity standards, empowering students to solve social problems using knowledge and values gained.

The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), through its Essentials document, developed eight core competencies expected of Doctor of Nursing (DNP) graduates of any clinical specialty (AACN, 2006). These leadership competencies have as their foundation integrity with expected behavioral expectations.

“Three values—quality, Integrity, and student-centeredness—are the core of Walden University and the touchstones for action at all levels of the organization. They demand high standards of excellence, uncompromising openness and honesty, and primary attention to our students’ progress. These values and principles give Walden University its unique identity and underpin the Walden University mission”.  (Walden University, 2020-2021).

At the end of my DNP program, I hope to practice at my highest level in the acute care sector as a game-changer and innovator by using evidence-based system changes to improve health outcomes. An example of social change that I would like to incorporate at work is to initiate a three-day course providing education in workflow processes, opportunities, and resources available to support their continued growth. Currently, a doctoral study is not part of the clinical ladder for nursing. I aim to redesign the clinical ladder program for nurses by working closely with the other clinical leaders in changing policies to ensure the nursing profession’s continued growth.

Walden University. (2011). Student publications: vision, mission, and goals. Retrieved from