The Need for Advanced Clinical Education for Nurse Practitioners Continues Despite Expansion of Doctor of Nursing Practice Programs

Abstract

We read with great interest Mundinger and Carter’s exposition of how, in their view, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) education has lost its way and what consequences might result. Mundinger and Carter note that DNP programs are overwhelming focused on nonclinical practice. We share the concern of Mundinger and Carter about the future of nurse practitioner (NP) education within the context of expanding DNP programs. In this commentary, we raise concerns about NP transition to practice and the limited, but concerning, evidence that new NPs struggle in their transition to practice. We note that this concern is magnified as NPs continue to move into specialty roles. Health systems have responded to this concern by developing residency and fellowship programs. Fifteen years after the AACN position statement on the clinical doctorate was issued, the goal of DNP education remains an unfinished project. An important question remains: Can, will, and how should DNP programs deliver?