[Johana]

The issue of doctor title has come up in my DNP course. If this issue had not come to my attention, I would not have known that it was against the law to use the Dr. title. It is mind boggling that it has gotten to this point where there has to be a law restricting the use of the title. It is a very difficult conversation, as I can see both sides of the debate. I can see how it is confusing for the patient to see a white lab coat and the Dr. initials or refer to the Nurse Practitioner as Doctor. It seems as though the Medical Board is going way over board with the title. I do think that all DNP Nurse Practitioners should make the distinction of being a nurse and not a Physician. Doctorate APRN’s have earned the degree title of “Doctor” similar to every other doctorate such as physical therapy, dentist, pharmacist, psychologists or therapists. I believe it depends on the field in which we are working in. I actually have never heard of a PT in the hospital and even outpatient refer to themselves as doctor. I do believe an individual who has earned the title should be able to refer to themselves as doctor. This is just one indicator that advance practice nurses should be involved in legislator and have a voice in the laws that are being passed.

[Johana]

When I thought of my career in the long-term, I always thought I would go into academia later in my career. I am in a DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program, which would put me more involved in the clinical setting. However, I am learning quickly about the leadership that entails as a Doctorate prepared nurse. I wanted to pursue my doctorate because I wanted the possibility to become an educator at the university level. It is refreshing to learn about all the doctorate roles that nurses play and be a part of, especially that of an expert clinician. I am reflecting on what I am currently learning in my doctorate course, and I find it interesting how interconnected a doctorate and a PhD degree are, and the usefulness of both degrees. I considered pursuing a master degree for FNP and then getting my PhD later, in hopes of being more involved in education. After starting my DNP course and learning the role of the doctorate advanced nurse practitioners, I am really glad to have chosen to pursue my doctorate along with my FNP.

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