by James
(Virgina)
I find it interesting when people equate length of study with the quality of an educational model or value of a title. The strength of nursing is with its length of hands on experience with patients and their families. I am currently a DNAP student, however prior to entry into this 10 semester program I obtained a 4 year undergraduate degree, 1 year of graduate studies in medical research and physiology, 7 years as a RN in an ICU setting. Although medical school would have been a quicker option for me I believe in obtaining advanced education in stages, which is not supported in the physician model.
I value that often times advanced practice nurses have started at the bottom and worked their way to areas of leadership. In this I feel nurses are better equipped to understand the challenges in patient care and community resources. MD’s get their “Dr” status after 4 years of undergraduate followed by 9 semesters of medical school. I really don’t want to be called “Dr”; however I feel that after 4 years of undergraduate, 7 years ICU experience, and 12 semesters of graduate studies I am entitled to be called “Dr”.
Comments for Advanced degrees don’t make you any more valuable…. just expensive
Sep 21, 2012
My two cents… NEW
by: Melissa
Well said, James! I, like you, have taken my education in steps have decided to pursue my advanced degree in nurse anesthesia (hence my visit to this website). In my opinion, nursing (both education and practice) has typically been more patient-focused and holistic than the traditional physician model, so it’s not surprising that most advanced nursing programs require hands-on experience prior to application (in contrast to medical school).
I’d also like to state my agreement with the comment from “Anonymous” regarding the use of the title “Dr.”…and it is just that: a title referring to educational level — NOT a profession. I think it’s unfortunate that we, as nurses, are quick to diminish our accomplishments and education level simply because some physicians are unwilling to “share the spotlight”.
May 01, 2012
Why aren’t nurses respected? NEW
by: Anonymous
No one has a problem calling any other professional with a DMD, DDS, MD, DO,PHD or Pharm D a doctor. Why is than an issue for a nurse with a doctorate degree?
Mar 13, 2012
BSN – Student NEW
by: Anonymous
I agree