RESPONSE DISCUSSION
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RESP1800wk3.docxAn individual must be able to describe the differences between a DNP and Ph.D. before a discussion can take place about intraprofessional and interprofessional collaboration. The role of the DNP is based on the AACN Essentials for the DNP and is a practice-oriented degree. The DNP degree is focused on changing clinical care outcomes through changing policy, focusing on quality and safety, and elevate nursing through education and its application to clinical practice. Conversely, the Ph.D. was established as a research-based degree to develop new knowledge and focus on advancing the profession of nursing through research. (Waxman & Maxworthy 2010).
Interdisciplinary collaboration was emphasized in this week’s readings and media presentation. Although the bedside nurse has a global picture of the patient and their needs, the DNP can collaborate on a level with different disciplines that put them at the table to be decision-makers. The importance of interdisciplinary collaboration according to Dr. Stanley is dependent on an individual’s ability to communicate care coordination effectively with other disciplines. Recognition of where the other care provider is coming from is a key component of interdisciplinary work (Laureate Education, 2011d).
Intradisciplinary cooperation is also important within the same discipline. Ph.D. prepared nurses and DNP prepared nurses need to work together with the common goal of supporting each other and elevating the overall discipline of nursing. As DNP’s support clinical practice they are not able to fully do this within the scientific community without Ph.D. backing. The importance of research and legitimizing the work nurses do, cannot be emphasized enough. An intriguing new academic role emerging is that of a Clinical Nurse Research Consultant (CNRC). According to Currey, et al. (2011) “The CNRC would be delivering research findings in collaboration with the DNP or clinician, to carry more weight than the level of importance the research alone currently carries” (p.2276). The CNRC role shows the power of intradisciplinary collaboration while still recognizing the work resides within the single discipline of nursing. DNP’s and Ph.D.’s working together to prove the value of nursing not only from a clinical perspective but integrating it with research and evidence daily is a mind-blowing proposition.
It is exciting to see what the field of nursing will generate in the next century as Advance Practice nurses gain recognition and respect for the work they contribute to the field of medicine overall.
References
Currey, J., Considine, J., & Khaw, D. (2011). Clinical nurse research consultant: A clinical and academic role to advance practice and the discipline of nursing. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 67(10), 2275-2283.
Laureate Educate (Producer). (2011d). The professional role of the DNP-Prepared nurse [Video file]. Retrieved from https://class.waldenu.edulaureate
