From policy to practice: A DNP student perspective

Abstract

Background Healthcare's rapid evolution has increased focus on doctoral nursing education and expanded experiential immersion opportunities created through innovative academic–community partnerships. Methods A partnership between an academic institution and a state board of nursing was formed to provide two Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) students with a fellowship opportunity to learn health policy, strategy, and systems thinking which culminated in participation in a state‐wide collaborative and published report. Results Practicum experience outcomes consisted of learner comprehension of DNP Essential II as evidenced by attendance at health policy meetings, participation in state‐wide Summit planning meetings with community partners and Summit participation, facilitation and follow‐up report contribution. Conclusions Providing students with a practicum experience based on the DNP essentials promotes a curriculum based on scholarly evidence to assure the DNP will be competent to face current demands in healthcare. Experiential learning provides a framework for the DNP to fulfill curriculum while applying skills learned in a real‐world environment.

Legislative Advocacy on Capitol Hill

“…Examples include the delivery of content through projects, debates, public health advocacy, direct communications to legislators, fellowships, practicums, service-learning, and participation in legislative activities. 6,7,9,10,25,26 Although most programs include some health policy content, it is not the focus for students who are prioritizing acquisition and application of foundational knowledge and skills to become safe, novice clinicians. 3,23 As new graduates enter into clinical practice, they realize the influence legislation, regulation, and policy have on their ability to practice to the full extent of their training and expertise.…”

“…When confronted with barriers to practice, they report they have little knowledge of health policy, or the experience and confidence in the use of advocacy tools, to improve their practice environment. 3,8,23,26 Research describing the political knowledge, attitudes, activities, and factors that influence participation by US nurses and midwives is also limited. In a 2022 national survey of midwives (n = 730), 9 in 10 reported voting at every opportunity and at least monthly participation in politics, health policy, and professional activities.…”

“…A variety of health policy assignments are described in the literature. Examples include the delivery of content through projects, debates, public health advocacy, direct communications to legislators, fellowships, practicums, service-learning, and participation in legislative activities 6,7,9,10,25,26. Although most programs include some health policy content, it is not the focus for students who are prioritizing acquisition and application of foundational knowledge and skills to become safe, novice clinicians 3,23.…”

“…As new graduates enter into clinical practice, they realize the influence legislation, regulation, and policy have on their ability to practice to the full extent of their training and expertise. When confronted with barriers to practice, they report they have little knowledge of health policy, or the experience and confidence in the use of advocacy tools, to improve their practice environment 3,8,23,26…”