[Ellonora]

Deborah,
I can understand as well using the title of Doctor if the person does not have the qualifications. I also agree with telling patients you are a Nurse Practitioner when introducing yourself. What is discouraging is that many other professions, such as educators, scientists, and lawyers with PhDs, address themselves as Dr. in public, and it is not questioned or punished. Advanced Practice Nurses have the education, qualifications, and experience. They deserve the right to promote their degree and qualifications as long as they are not misrepresenting themselves as medical doctors or other professionals. It starts with nurses of all degrees supporting each other and advocating for each other. Standardization and qualifications for nursing in all roles, such as leadership, specialty area, and management, are needed to bring credibility to the profession and prevent further issues, such as advanced practice nurses being fined for using a title that they not only worked hard for but deserve to be recognized for.

[Ellonora]

Hi Janet,
I am an FNP/Doctoral student, and I received comments along the same lines when I decided to apply to the program. A colleague told me that it was a waste of time and that it would be better just to go to medical school. It was very disheartening to hear, especially from a fellow nurse. I feel that a DNP is more than adequately prepared and qualified for a teaching role. The DNP program teaches and prepares us for all the competencies related to education and certifications. Professors in these programs are DNPs, so who would be better to instruct their colleagues in the profession? Ph.D. programs in nursing are mostly related to research, and DNP programs are related to practice and translating evidence into practice, which covers a more extensive curriculum than having a PhD. I feel as nurses, we need to support and advocate for the nursing practice and each other to get the credibility and respect we deserve for our dedication and hard work.

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