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.
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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aacn essentials summary paper, which documents outline the curriculum standards for all dnp programs
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. 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.
