During the course, the main topics were the role of a DNP-prepared nurse in improving the health system, the analysis of the quality of scientific literature, and the translation of science models and theories. All the topics gave me helpful knowledge and changed my thinking by making it more critical and systematic. Hence, I believe that the course has given me the knowledge needed to prepare me for the role of a healthcare leader and a practice of a DNP-prepared nurse.
The first change in my skills that I noticed is that I analyze scientific articles more critically. Previously, I paid attention to the facts and the consistency of the authors’ findings, but now I also review the approaches to the analysis and choice of instruments. Falkenberg and Soranno (2018) noted that although reviewers have a number of recommendations about the qualities of a good review, these recommendations are usually based on personal experience and general standards. Therefore, the subjective and objective evaluation of the articles in accordance with the studied issue is necessary for their appropriate application. In addition, the study of translation science models helped me systematize my understanding of the steps required in implementing innovation and change. For example, Rogers’ theory presents five stages: knowledge, persuasion, decision, acceptance, and confirmation (Kuang, 2018). These steps were intuitive to me, but various theory details, such as the classification of stakeholder groups, made it possible to see the picture more clearly.
The knowledge I have gained prepares me to practice as a DNP-prepared nurse for several reasons. First, evidence-based practice is a crucial skill of a DNP-prepared nurse that helps them identify best practices for improving healthcare institution practices (Yancey, 2018). For this reason, the skill of analyzing the quality of evidence is essential for me to use only verified practices and theories. Secondly, translation science models and theories can be applied to various situations requiring changes and improvements. Understanding the specifics of these theories will help me choose the methods and approaches that will be effective for implementing change. Thus, I believe that the knowledge gained is essential to my practice as a DNP-prepared nurse as it contributes to the effective fulfillment of my work responsibilities.
References
Falkenberg, L.J. & Soranno, P.A. (2018). Reviewing reviews: An evaluation of peer reviews of journal article submissions.Limnology and Oceanography Bulletin, 27(1), 1-5.
Kuang, W. (2018). Social media in China. Springer.
Yancey, N. R. (2018). Evidence-based practice in nursing for teaching-learning: But is it really nursing?Nursing Science Quarterly, 32(1), 25–28.