[Jackie]

Hello Avery,
I am sorry you have encountered a negative experience when telling your coworkers or other healthcare professionals that you were studying to earn your DNP degree. I can imagine how these conversations can make you feel hesitant. Despite this post being written since 2020, I hope you obtained your DNP degree.
I have received the same hesitation from friends, but surprisingly not from coworkers. My work institution has been very supportive from the beginning of my DNP career, especially being a full-time student and working full time. My unit director, administrators, healthcare professionals, and coworkers encouraged me to pursue this degree. Despite being a little overwhelmed some days, their constant positive remarks on my ability and worth helps me get through when I am stressed. When I have questions or concerns about a particular topic, I can easily discuss it with them. However, regarding my friends, they do not see the reason for me pursuing my education and knowledge and putting a pause on my life (ex: marriage, kids, and vacations). The way I see it, there is a time and place for everything. My views may not align with their life views, but obtaining my DNP degree is a huge asset for my education, leadership, research, and knowledge. People will have different opinions or negative comments on how a person does things in life, but we should not let their views deter us from our original goals. I wish you the best in your DNP career and hope you continue striving for all your goals!

[Jackie]

This report highlighted a significant issue tackling the healthcare system over many years. It has affected nurses and other healthcare professionals providing direct patient care. As the report mentions, our personal experiences and biases often influence our relationships and profession. Unconscious bias and racism have contributed to multiple health disparities. Working in the healthcare field, I have seen its daily practice, and sometimes people are unaware they are contributing to this bias. “Unconcious bias refers to stereotypes and cultural concepts that all people give, which influence decisions and behaviors apart from conscious realization or intentional control” (Schultz & Baker, 2017, p. 692). Understanding the concept of unconscious bias is critical because sometimes it is hard to know if we are also guilty of this action without knowing it. Unconscious bias can be applied in various cultural and underserved communities, such as people experiencing homelessness. It is vital to be culturally competent in caring for all people. Acknowledging that bias and racism exist and understanding their implications toward care can help change our thinking and actions when serving patients daily. As a result, it can reduce stigmatization among patient populations.

Many things stood out in this report, but most importantly, how white nurse researchers conduct overwhelming nursing research. The report addresses the top themes identified, but one reason I have seen firsthand is the systemic and institutional roadblocks among decision-makers, academia, and governmental agencies. Minority nurse researchers (including DNPs) are essential to addressing health disparities and inequities and appropriately disseminating funding. As prospective DNP leaders, it is vital to understand and become involved with policies and reforms. It is important to know that despite these huge issues, it is essential to keep pushing. Minor changes and advocacy can invoke an array of modifications and influence others to do the same.

[Author]

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