DNP vs FNP

[BedsideBenevolence]

Hello all!

I have applied to several FNP schools and currently waiting on admission. I am seriously considering going for RN to DNP. I work in an environment where there are a lot of nurse practitioners and mostly all of them say they will not be returning for their doctorate degree. The general argument is that it is "unnecessary ". So I wanted to hear from other people who are currently going through or have completed their NP program. Will you be returning for your doctorate? Why or Why not?

Also, did you feel prepared to take on your role as an advanced practice nurse? Or did you think to yourself "I don't know enough, I need to go back to school"?

[BedsideBenevolence]

The title is prob a bit misleading. It should probably read APNP/ NP vs DNP.

[sailornurse]

APNP? Acute Pediatric NP? I am applying for Fall 2016 for DNP but only because I have the time/opporutnity, not because it will change anything I currently do as a FNP. If I return to teaching I will need it to be competitive. I taught for ten years in a BSN program and taught a few grad level classes. It is financially/economically not a smart thing to do. I make more as a FNP then faculty do.

[BedsideBenevolence]

I am applying for Fall 2016 for DNP but only because I have the time/opporutnity, not because it will change anything I currently do as a FNP.

You see, this seems to be the general consensus. It's almost as if people are going for their DNP typically to earn more letters/credentials. Not necessarily because it contributes to their practice in any way. I'm just trying to decide if I really want to do that... The main reason why I am leaning towards it is because it seems later on down the road, this will be a requirement. Everyone who is not prepared at the doctorate level will probably have to go back or be "grandfathered" in.

I just wanted to hear from NP's themselves, what are the specific benefits they see in returning for their doctorate degree other than additional letters, credentials and prestige of being called "doctor"... Especially if they feel they have learned all they need to know to do their jobs adequately.

[Grumble88]

I'm currently in my last semester of my MSN for PMHNP, I have no intention of returning for my DNP. The DNP affords no scope of practice or monetary benefits, but is incredibly expensive and time consuming. If you want to teach or have administrative aspirations a DNP will be of value, but it simply isn't worth is as a clinician.

[littlepeopleRNICU]

I'm in an MSN program. I'm not sure whether I will return. In my area, there are a ton of NPs...most have Masters. The ones I know who went back for a DNP say it didn't change their role or pay at all. It'll just depend on where I end up working and whether or not it's preferred in the area I settle in. As well as if any tuition assistance through work is offered.

[Taglas-FNP]

Hello

I just met degree conferral for MSN FNP studies. I have considered returning for my DNP to teach at the graduate level. As we all may know, the AACN and CCNE have recommended that all APN's hold a DNP. I can see this recommendation playing a significant role in the decision to lift collaborative agreements, and allow FNP's to establish independent practices in some states. Although many states have lifted collaborative agreements, there is talk about the level of education APN's have, and if we are prepared to own and safely operate independent practices.

Keep a positive spin on the progress of full practice authority for NPs

Is a DNP Degree an NP Requirement in 2

[twozer0, NP]

I'm waiting to see what happens with the DNP. I honestly would like to see a separate clinical doctorate for those working as an APRN. I don't like the fact that the DNP lumps education, admin, and clinician under one roof. Doctorates are supposed to be specialised in an area to show that said person is an expert on that area of care. Only time will tell what happens.