Post BSN DNP Curriculum for Non Nurse Practitioners

Background: Despite the impending 2015 recommended implementation date for the DNP to be required for entry into practice as a NP, few schools have transitioned their NP MSN program to a curriculum culminating with the DNP. While DNP programs for the post-MSN DNP student who is already a practicing NP can focus on the broader DNP Essentials, programs for students (both those who are novices and experts in professional nursing practice) entering with only the BSN must do more. Thus, curricula which develop knowledge and skills (clinical and cognitive) traditionally addressed in the MSN curriculum as well as the additional outcomes for the DNP are needed.

Purpose: The purpose of this presentation is to outline the specific learning needs of the Post-BSN DNP student and describe how these learning needs can be achieved through DNP targeted  classroom and clinical experiences. This is approached with a consideration of available faculty and community resources and a desire to provide a strong clinical and cognitive foundation for future practice as a DNP prepared NP.

Macro Curriculum Design: ANP-Gerontological (2010), Family (2002) and Practice Doctorate Nurse Practitioner Entry Level Competencies (2006) were used to identify curricular strengths and gaps. After verification that content in the Three Ps was appropriate to NP preparation, each NP course was examined. This resulted in course revisions and addition of a course focused on gerontological competences.  Clinical courses were then examined resulting in changes in the types of clinical settings used and outcome expectations as students develop increasing levels of theoretical knowledge and clinical skills needed for successful NP practice in the years to come.

Micro Curriculum Design: Subsequent full faculty discussions examined where and how each aspect of the above named essentials documents (not simply clinical content) was addressed. This resulted in development of carefully sequenced assignments that also supported achievement of outcomes related to policy, informatics, ethics and the many overarching objectives of the DNP program.

Implications: Transitioning to the DNP will require an academic, health care system and client paradigm shifts. Recognition of unique learning needs of the post BSN student is essential.