As an advanced registered nurse, one enters a realm of nursing practice that goes beyond the traditional bedside care provided by registered nurses. Advanced registered nurses assume various roles within the healthcare system, collaborating with different areas of nursing practice to deliver comprehensive and specialized care. This paper aims to compare my future role as a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) with the role of a family nurse practitioner (FNP), utilizing the “Nursing Roles Graphic Organizer Template” to highlight the similarities and differences between the two roles.
The FNP, as a primary care provider, focuses on delivering holistic care to individuals and families across the lifespan. They work collaboratively with physicians and other healthcare professionals to provide preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic interventions. FNPs have a strong foundation in primary care and are educated to manage acute and chronic conditions, promote health and wellness, and provide patient education (American Association of Nurse Practitioners, 2020). In contrast, the DNP role emphasizes advanced practice nursing at the highest level of clinical practice, with a primary focus on improving patient outcomes through evidence-based practice and innovation (American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 2006).
When comparing the roles using the template, we can find both similarities and differences. In terms of education and certification, both FNPs and DNPs require advanced degrees. FNPs typically possess a master’s degree in nursing, while DNPs hold a doctoral degree, specifically a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. Both roles also require national certification through organizations such as the American Association of Nurse Practitioners for FNPs and the American Nurses Credentialing Center for DNPs.
In terms of practice, both FNPs and DNPs provide direct patient care. However, FNPs primarily focus on primary care across the lifespan, while DNPs have a broader scope of practice that extends beyond the bedside. DNPs are equipped with advanced knowledge and skills to lead and manage complex healthcare systems, provide population-based care, and implement evidence-based practice initiatives (American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 2006). As aspiring DNPs, we will be prepared to serve as leaders in healthcare organizations, collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, and advocate for policy changes to promote quality and safety in patient care.
Another area of comparison is the ability to prescribe medications. FNPs have prescriptive authority in most states, allowing them to prescribe medications, order diagnostic tests, and refer patients to specialists (American Association of Nurse Practitioners, 2020). Similarly, DNPs may have prescriptive authority depending on state regulations and organizational policies. However, DNPs often focus on improving healthcare systems, translating research into practice, and developing and implementing protocols and guidelines to enhance patient care outcomes.
In the field of research, DNPs are expected to contribute to the scientific knowledge base of nursing through conducting research and evidence synthesis. Their role includes implementing and evaluating evidence-based practice initiatives, analyzing data, and disseminating findings to enhance patient outcomes (American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 2006). On the other hand, while FNPs are not typically involved in conducting formal research, they utilize evidence-based practice to guide their clinical decision-making and deliver optimal care to their patients.
The comparison also extends to the area of advocacy and leadership. As primary care providers, FNPs often advocate for their patients’ healthcare needs and serve as leaders within their practice settings by collaborating with other healthcare providers and advocating for policy changes that benefit patients. Similarly, DNPs are leaders in healthcare organizations, advocating for improvements in the delivery of care, influencing health policy, and leading healthcare teams to achieve quality outcomes (American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 2006).
In conclusion, both the FNP and DNP roles have important contributions to make within the nursing profession. While the FNP role focuses on providing primary care to individuals and families across the lifespan, the DNP role emphasizes advanced practice nursing with an emphasis on evidence-based practice and leadership. By understanding the similarities and differences between these roles, individuals can make informed decisions about their career paths and contribute to the advancement of nursing practice.
