Explain how your academic and professional goals align with Walden’s vision, mission, social change message, social determinants of health, and university outcomes

Explain how your academic and professional goals align with Walden’s vision, mission

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.

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 as 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.

Expert Answer and Explanation

AACN Competencies and the Walden Mission, Vision, and Outcomes

Every nurse practitioner must have a goal or goals that guide their practice. Nurses should consider the culture and beliefs of all patients while working with them and helping them achieve their mental health outcomes (Cain et al., 2018). They should also work with their fellow healthcare professionals and stakeholders to provide affordable care to underserved communities (Cain et al., 2018).

My goals are well aligned with Walden’s mission, social change message, vision, social determinants of health, university outcomes, and American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) DNP Essentials. The purpose of this assignment is to explain how my goals align with Walden’s mission, social change message, vision, social determinants of health, university outcomes, as well as AACN DNP Essentials and how I plan to incorporate social change throughout my program of study and professional practice.

Goals Aligning with Walden’s Vision and Mission, and AACN DNP Essentials

Like any other organization, Walden University has a mission and vision that guides its practices. The mission of the university is to provide a diverse community of career professionals (Walden University, 2021). My first goal as a psychiatric nurse practitioner is to provide safe, quality, patient-centered and competent care to all patients, their families, and the community at large regardless of their background and culture.

My goal aligns with the university’s mission in that I aim to provide quality care to all patients without any form of discrimination. I will achieve my professional goal by improving my knowledge of culturally-based care. I believe that I am one of the kinds of career professionals the university seeks to release in the job market. The vision of the university is to provide graduates who can solve societal challenges and thus advance the greater global good. My second goal is to be part of programs that aim to solve societal problems.

Being part of problem-solving programs, will fulfil my second goal and also meet the vision of the university. Walden University defines social change as a deliberate process of developing and applying strategies, ideas, and actions to promote and develop cultures and communities (Walden University, 2021). My third goal is to become an advocate for patients and nurses.

I would be able to promote social change by advocating for the needs of patients and my fellow nurses, a practice that aligns with the university’s social change message. My goals also align with AACN DNP Essentials. One of the essentials my goals align with is health care policy for advocacy in health care (AACN, 2006). I would be able to advocate for patients’ and nurses’ rights by creating health policies and presenting them to necessary people for approval and implementation. My academic goal is to be competent in the creation and advocacy of healthcare policies.

Incorporating Social Change

I plan to incorporate social change throughout my program of study by performing a quality improvement project aimed at improving the mental health of the less privileged in society. I will conduct a quality improvement study about the impact of physical exercise on sleep quality in African American people with depression.

I will incorporate social change at the professional level by volunteering in mental health promotion programs. Social change will contribute to my field experience by improving my knowledge of advocacy and the development of promotional programs. Social change will also improve my collaborative skills because it will collaborate with various people to promote better mental health in the community.

Conclusion

My goals align with Walden’s mission, vision, and social change message. As a professional, I will work with other healthcare professionals to promote the better mental health status of my patients, families, and communities. I will also develop health policies that seek to make mental health care affordable to less privileged and provide other health professionals with the requisite tools to provide proper mental health care.

References

American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). (2006). The essentials of doctoral education for advanced nursing practice. https://www.aacnnursing.org/Portals/42/Publications/DNPEssentials.pdf

Cain, C. L., Surbone, A., Elk, R., & Kagawa-Singer, M. (2018). Culture and palliative care: preferences, communication, meaning, and mutual decision making. Journal of Pain And Symptom Management, 55(5), 1408-1419. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2018.01.007

Walden University. (2021). Student publications: Vision, mission, and goals. https://catalog.waldenu.edu/

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FAQs

9 Essentials of Master’s Education in Nursing

The field of nursing is rapidly evolving, and obtaining a Master’s degree in nursing has become essential for nurses who wish to advance their careers and make a significant impact on patient care. A Master’s education equips nurses with specialized knowledge and skills, enabling them to become leaders, educators, and administrators in the healthcare industry. In this article, we will explore the nine essentials of Master’s education in nursing, highlighting its importance and the opportunities it provides.

1. Introduction

In recent years, the healthcare landscape has witnessed a growing demand for highly skilled and knowledgeable nurses. Master’s education in nursing goes beyond the fundamental concepts taught at the undergraduate level, offering an in-depth understanding of advanced nursing practices, evidence-based care, and leadership strategies.

2. Importance of Master’s Education

2.1 Advancement in Nursing Practice

Obtaining a Master’s degree in nursing opens up a world of possibilities for nurses to advance in their practice. It provides them with the expertise to deliver specialized care to patients, diagnose and manage complex health conditions, and prescribe medications. Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), such as nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, and nurse anesthetists, play a crucial role in delivering comprehensive healthcare services.

2.2 Expanded Career Opportunities

A Master’s degree in nursing expands career opportunities for nurses. It qualifies them for roles as nurse educators, who impart knowledge and skills to the next generation of nurses, and nurse administrators, who oversee healthcare organizations and manage teams. Additionally, nurses with advanced degrees can pursue research and contribute to evidence-based practice, making significant contributions to improving patient outcomes.

3. Specialization Options

Master’s education in nursing offers a wide range of specialization options, allowing nurses to focus on areas that align with their interests and career goals. Some common specializations include:

3.1 Nurse Practitioner

Nurse practitioners (NPs) are advanced practice nurses who provide primary and specialized care to patients across the lifespan. They diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, and order and interpret diagnostic tests. NPs work collaboratively with physicians and other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive and patient-centered care.

3.2 Nurse Educator

Nurse educators play a crucial role in shaping the future of nursing. They teach aspiring nurses in academic settings and provide continuing education to practicing nurses to practicing nurses. By sharing their expertise and knowledge, nurse educators contribute to the development of a highly skilled nursing workforce.

3.3 Nurse Administrator

Nurse administrators are responsible for managing healthcare organizations and ensuring the delivery of high-quality care. They oversee budgets, develop policies, and coordinate resources to optimize healthcare services. Nurse administrators have a profound impact on healthcare outcomes by implementing effective strategies and fostering a positive work environment.

4. Curriculum and Coursework

Master’s education in nursing encompasses a comprehensive curriculum that prepares nurses for their specialized roles. The coursework focuses on three primary areas:

4.1 Advanced Nursing Concepts

Students delve into advanced nursing theories and concepts, expanding their understanding of health promotion, disease prevention, and management of acute and chronic conditions. They learn to critically analyze evidence and apply it to their practice, ensuring the provision of safe and effective care.

4.2 Leadership and Management

Master’s programs emphasize leadership and management skills to prepare nurses for administrative roles. Courses cover topics such as healthcare policy, financial management, organizational behavior, and quality improvement. These skills enable nurses to lead interdisciplinary teams and drive positive change within healthcare systems.

4.3 Research and Evidence-Based Practice

Research and evidence-based practice are integral components of Master’s education in nursing. Students learn to critically appraise research literature, design studies, and translate evidence into practice. By incorporating the latest research findings into their clinical decision-making, nurses contribute to the continuous improvement of patient care.

5. Clinical Practicum

Master’s education in nursing includes a clinical practicum component that provides hands-on learning experiences in various healthcare settings. This practicum allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios and develop essential clinical skills. Under the guidance of experienced preceptors, students gain confidence and competence in their specialized roles.

5.1 Hands-on Learning

The clinical practicum offers valuable opportunities for students to interact with patients, families, and healthcare teams. It enables them to develop clinical reasoning skills, refine their assessment and diagnostic abilities, and enhance their communication and collaboration skills.

5.2 Preceptorship

During the clinical practicum, students work closely with experienced nurses who serve as preceptors. These preceptors provide guidance, support, and feedback to help students navigate the challenges of the clinical environment. Preceptorship facilitates the transition from student to professional nurse and ensures the acquisition of essential competencies.

6. Technology in Master’s Education

Master’s education in nursing leverages technology to enhance learning experiences. Online platforms, virtual simulations, and interactive learning modules enable students to access educational resources conveniently. Technology also facilitates collaboration among students and instructors, promoting knowledge sharing and networking.

7. Flexibility and Convenience

Master’s programs in nursing offer flexibility and convenience, accommodating the needs of working nurses. Many programs provide part-time and online options, allowing nurses to balance their professional and personal commitments while pursuing higher education. This flexibility empowers nurses to continue their education without disrupting their careers.

8. Networking and Collaboration

Master’s education in nursing provides ample opportunities for networking and collaboration with professionals from diverse backgrounds. Students interact with faculty members, fellow students, and healthcare leaders, fostering meaningful connections that can last throughout their careers. Networking and collaboration broaden nurses’ perspectives, expose them to new ideas, and create opportunities for professional growth.

9. Financial Considerations

When considering pursuing a Master’s degree in nursing, it is essential to evaluate the financial aspects. While the cost of education can vary, nurses should explore scholarship and financial aid options to mitigate the financial burden. Additionally, some employers offer tuition reimbursement or incentives for nurses seeking advanced degrees.

10. Conclusion

Master’s education in nursing plays a vital role in preparing nurses for advanced practice, leadership, education, and administration roles. It provides a comprehensive curriculum, specialized knowledge, and hands-on experiences that contribute to improving patient care and advancing the nursing profession. With the expanding scope of nursing, pursuing a Master’s degree offers nurses the opportunity to make a lasting impact in healthcare.

11. FAQs

Q1. Is a Master’s degree necessary to become a nurse practitioner? Yes, a Master’s degree is required to become a nurse practitioner. It provides the advanced knowledge and skills necessary to provide comprehensive and specialized care to patients.

Q2. Can I pursue a Master’s degree while working as a nurse? Yes, many Master’s programs offer flexible options, including part-time and online study, allowing nurses to continue working while pursuing their degree.

Q3. What are the career prospects after completing a Master’s degree in nursing? Completing a Master’s degree in nursing opens up various career opportunities, including advanced practice nursing, nurse education, nurse administration, and research.

Q4. How long does it take to complete a Master’s degree in nursing? The duration of a Master’s program in nursing varies depending on the specific program and whether the student is studying full-time or part-time. On average, it takes about two to three years to complete.

Q5. How can I finance my Master’s education in nursing? There are several options to finance a Master’s degree in nursing, including scholarships, grants, loans, and tuition reimbursement programs offered by employers.

What is Walden’s vision mission goals and social change?

Walden University, a prominent online institution offering higher education, is known for its commitment to social change and social justice. Here’s an overview of Walden University’s vision, mission, goals, and its role in promoting social change:

Vision: Walden University envisions a world where individuals from diverse backgrounds have the opportunity to access high-quality education, empowering them to make positive contributions to society.

Mission: Walden University’s mission is to provide a transformative educational experience that fosters positive social change. It aims to engage students in learning, research, and service activities that prepare them to address pressing societal challenges.

Goals:

1. Educational Excellence: Walden University strives for academic excellence by offering rigorous and relevant programs that prepare students for leadership roles in their respective fields.
2. Access and Inclusivity: It is committed to making education accessible to a diverse range of learners, ensuring that individuals from various backgrounds can pursue their educational goals.
3. Social Change: A core goal is to empower graduates to be agents of social change. Walden aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to address societal issues and make a positive impact.
4. Research and Scholarship: The university promotes research and scholarship that contribute to the advancement of knowledge and the betterment of society.
5. Community Engagement: Walden University encourages students, faculty, and staff to actively engage with their communities and apply their learning to real-world problems.

Social Change: Walden University’s dedication to social change is a central theme in its approach to education. It believes that education can be a powerful tool for addressing critical social issues, such as inequality, poverty, healthcare disparities, and environmental sustainability. Here are some ways in which Walden contributes to social change:

1. Curriculum: Walden integrates social change themes into its curriculum, challenging students to think critically about societal problems and potential solutions.
2. Research: The university supports research that addresses pressing social issues, providing valuable insights and evidence to inform policies and practices.
3. Service Learning: Walden encourages students to engage in service-learning activities, where they apply their knowledge and skills to benefit their communities.
4. Diverse Community: By welcoming a diverse student body and faculty, Walden fosters an environment where multiple perspectives and experiences are valued, contributing to a broader understanding of social issues.
5. Advocacy: Walden graduates often become advocates for positive social change, using their education to influence policy, lead organizations, and drive meaningful initiatives.

In summary, Walden University’s vision, mission, and goals revolve around providing accessible, high-quality education that empowers individuals to be catalysts for social change. Through its curriculum, research, and community engagement, Walden strives to make a positive impact on society by addressing the pressing issues of our time.

What are the AACN DNP essentials that most align to the completion of a doctoral project?

The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) has established a set of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Essentials that serve as guidelines for DNP programs and the preparation of nursing professionals at the doctoral level. Several of these essentials align closely with the completion of a doctoral project:

1. Essential I: Scientific Underpinnings for Practice:
   • This essential emphasizes the importance of scientific knowledge as the foundation for advanced nursing practice, including the development and execution of a doctoral project. It requires DNP students to critically appraise and apply scientific evidence to address healthcare challenges.
2. Essential II: Organizational and Systems Leadership for Quality Improvement and Systems Thinking:
   • This essential relates to the management and leadership skills needed to plan, implement, and evaluate a doctoral project within a healthcare system. It emphasizes system-level thinking and leadership capabilities for improving healthcare quality.
3. Essential III: Clinical Scholarship and Analytical Methods for Evidence-Based Practice:
   • This essential highlights the use of analytical methods and scholarship in clinical practice. DNP students must apply these skills to design and conduct their doctoral projects, ensuring evidence-based decision-making.
4. Essential IV: Information Systems/Technology and Patient Care Technology for the Improvement and Transformation of Health Care:
   • In today’s healthcare landscape, technology plays a crucial role in practice and research. This essential emphasizes the use of information systems and technology to support the doctoral project’s data collection, analysis, and dissemination.
5. Essential V: Healthcare Policy for Advocacy in Health Care:
   • A DNP project often involves advocating for policy changes or improvements in healthcare delivery. This essential focuses on understanding healthcare policy, advocating for healthcare reform, and shaping policy through evidence-based practice.
6. Essential VII: Interprofessional Collaboration for Improving Patient and Population Health Outcomes:
   • Collaboration is essential in executing a successful doctoral project. DNP students are expected to work with interdisciplinary teams to address complex healthcare issues that impact patient and population health.
7. Essential VIII: Advanced Nursing Practice:
   • This essential underscores the development of advanced nursing practice skills. DNP students must apply their advanced clinical knowledge and skills when implementing and evaluating interventions as part of their doctoral projects.
8. Essential IX: Clinical Prevention and Population Health for Improving the Nation’s Health:
   • For DNP projects that focus on population health and prevention, this essential provides guidance on understanding and addressing the health needs of diverse populations.
9. Essential X: Advanced Practice Nursing in the Care of Vulnerable Populations:
   • If the doctoral project centers on vulnerable populations, this essential is particularly relevant. It focuses on addressing healthcare disparities and providing equitable care.
10. Essential XI: DNP Project:
    • This essential directly addresses the completion of the DNP project. It outlines the expectations for the project’s design, implementation, evaluation, and dissemination.

These AACN DNP Essentials collectively guide DNP students in aligning their doctoral projects with the principles of evidence-based practice, leadership, collaboration, and policy advocacy. Depending on the nature of the project, specific essentials may be emphasized more than others, but all are relevant to the successful completion of a DNP doctoral project.

What is the purpose of the DNP essentials?

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Essentials, established by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), serve several important purposes within the field of nursing education and practice:

1. Standardization of DNP Education: The DNP Essentials provide a standardized framework for DNP programs across the United States. They outline the core competencies and knowledge areas that DNP graduates should possess, ensuring consistency in DNP education.
2. Guidance for Curriculum Development: DNP programs use the Essentials as a guide to develop their curricula. These standards help program directors and faculty design coursework and clinical experiences that align with the competencies required for DNP graduates.
3. Quality Assurance: By defining the essential competencies and expectations for DNP graduates, the AACN ensures the quality and rigor of DNP programs. This quality assurance is important for maintaining the integrity of the DNP degree.
4. Alignment with Evolving Practice Needs: The DNP Essentials are periodically reviewed and updated to reflect the changing healthcare landscape and evolving practice needs. This ensures that DNP graduates are well-prepared to address current healthcare challenges.
5. Promotion of Evidence-Based Practice: The Essentials emphasize the importance of evidence-based practice in nursing. They encourage DNP students to base their clinical decisions and practice improvements on the best available evidence, leading to higher-quality patient care.
6. Preparation for Advanced Practice Roles: DNP programs aim to prepare nurses for advanced practice roles, such as nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse executives. The Essentials outline the competencies needed for these roles.
7. Enhancement of Leadership and Advocacy Skills: The DNP Essentials highlight the significance of leadership and advocacy in nursing practice. They equip DNP graduates with the skills needed to lead change in healthcare organizations, advocate for policy changes, and improve healthcare delivery.
8. Focus on Interprofessional Collaboration: Collaboration among healthcare professionals is crucial in modern healthcare. The Essentials emphasize interprofessional collaboration skills, enabling DNP graduates to work effectively in multidisciplinary healthcare teams.
9. Emphasis on Ethical Practice: Ethical considerations are fundamental in healthcare. The Essentials underscore the importance of ethical practice, ensuring that DNP graduates make ethical decisions in their clinical and leadership roles.
10. Advancement of Nursing Science: The DNP Essentials encourage DNP graduates to engage in scholarly activities, including research and evidence generation. This contributes to the advancement of nursing science and evidence-based practice.
11. Impact on Patient Outcomes: Ultimately, the purpose of the DNP Essentials is to improve patient outcomes. By equipping DNP graduates with the knowledge and skills outlined in the Essentials, the AACN aims to enhance the quality of care provided to patients and populations.

In summary, the DNP Essentials serve as a framework for DNP education, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of modern healthcare, provide high-quality patient care, and drive positive changes in nursing practice and healthcare systems.

What is the DNP prepared nurses role in design implementation and evaluation of therapeutic nursing interventions?

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)-prepared nurses play a pivotal role in the design, implementation, and evaluation of therapeutic nursing interventions. These nurses have advanced education and expertise that enable them to take on leadership roles in healthcare, influence practice, and improve patient outcomes. Here’s how DNPs contribute to the process of designing, implementing, and evaluating therapeutic nursing interventions:

1. Design of Therapeutic Nursing Interventions:
   • Advanced Assessment: DNPs are skilled in comprehensive patient assessments, considering not only physical health but also psychological, social, and environmental factors. They use this assessment to identify patient needs and develop tailored interventions.
   • Evidence-Based Practice: DNPs are well-versed in evidence-based practice, enabling them to review the latest research and best practices to inform the design of therapeutic interventions. They use empirical evidence to guide decision-making.
   • Collaboration: DNPs collaborate with interdisciplinary healthcare teams, including physicians, therapists, pharmacists, and social workers, to design holistic interventions that address a patient’s diverse needs.
   • Patient-Centered Care: DNPs prioritize patient-centered care, involving patients in the design of interventions. They consider patients’ values, preferences, and cultural backgrounds to create interventions that align with their individual goals.
2. Implementation of Therapeutic Nursing Interventions:
   • Clinical Expertise: DNPs bring advanced clinical skills to patient care. They are capable of delivering complex nursing interventions, including those that require specialized knowledge, such as managing chronic diseases or administering advanced therapies.
   • Leadership: DNPs often assume leadership roles in healthcare teams, facilitating the implementation of interventions by coordinating and directing the efforts of other healthcare professionals.
   • Education and Patient Advocacy: DNPs educate patients and their families about the therapeutic interventions, ensuring they understand the rationale, potential outcomes, and any necessary lifestyle changes. They advocate for patients’ needs and preferences throughout the process.
3. Evaluation of Therapeutic Nursing Interventions:
   • Outcome Assessment: DNPs are skilled in assessing patient outcomes, including clinical, functional, and quality-of-life measures. They use data and metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions.
   • Continuous Improvement: DNPs emphasize continuous quality improvement. If an intervention is not achieving the desired outcomes, they modify the plan based on the assessment and new evidence, ensuring the best care possible.
   • Research and Evaluation Skills: Many DNPs are trained in research methods, allowing them to design and conduct studies to assess the impact of nursing interventions and contribute to the body of nursing knowledge.
4. Advocacy and Policy Influence:
   • DNPs often engage in healthcare advocacy and may be involved in shaping institutional policies and guidelines related to nursing interventions. They advocate for evidence-based practices and policies that support optimal patient care.
5. Teaching and Mentorship:
   • DNPs are often involved in teaching and mentoring other nurses and healthcare professionals. They share their expertise and knowledge to ensure that therapeutic nursing interventions are consistently applied in practice.

In summary, DNP-prepared nurses bring a wealth of knowledge, clinical expertise, and leadership skills to the design, implementation, and evaluation of therapeutic nursing interventions. They prioritize evidence-based practice, patient-centered care, and continuous improvement to ensure that interventions are effective, safe, and aligned with the best available evidence. Their contributions play a crucial role in improving patient outcomes and advancing the field of nursing.