Reference no: EM133925122

Question

When reflecting on what a DNP is and what it means in nursing, the word terminal is right beside it. The American Association of Colleges of Nurses noted in 2004, that they were wanting all nursing schools to begin phasing out the master level preparation of Advance Practicing Registered Nurses. They wanted this to be completed by the year 2015, and that has yet to be accomplished (McCauley et al., 2020). That being said, there are definitely pros and cons to this conversation and a terminal degree may not be appropriate for everyone.

Like anything in life, we must looks at the pros and cons before deciding if something is right for each of us. Some of the pros of this terminal degree are increased career opportunities. Many leadership roles will become available, and with that also comes an increase in compensation. Advanced clinical skills allows the student to become the best they can be and be able to provide the highest amount of patient care. With this terminal degree it will help establish you as a leader. With that position you will be able to address future healthcare policy. Another major bonus is with this degree, it allows the nurse to be able to practice autonomously (DeNisco, 2021).

Again, like anything else, there are also cons. Cost. The cost of attending a university for a terminal degree can be a huge burden. Many come out with student loans that may cost more than what they make in a year. This also leads to the amount of time spent in school. Those hours are taking away from not only your home life, but also your career.

Do you think the paragraphs above described well the pros and cons of the DNP as a terminal degree for advanced nursing practice? Why? or Why not?