History of the DNP

The DNP degree was developed to meet the demands of modern medicine and ensure the welfare of patients. The Institute of Medicine (IOM) stated that education for health care providers should be reformed. The IOM called for advanced practice nurses to focus on translating research, teamwork, and technology. In response to the IOM, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) responded by calling for the development of the doctor of nursing practice degree. The Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice was developed by the AACN and outlined eight critical elements required for all DNP programs. The AACN has declared the DNP a terminal degree for advanced practice nurses.

The first DNP program was started in 2001 by the University of Kentucky College of Nursing (McCauley et al., 2020)......... continue