Author: Liu

  • Everything You Need to Know About Computerized Adaptive Testing

    If you’ve ever heard of the NCLEX before (which we are guessing that you have), you know that this is no ordinary test! This nursing licensure exam is unique from other tests in so many ways, and understanding all of its features is crucial to passing. In this article, we’re taking a look at the method…

  • Become a Patient Advocate with a Master of Science in Nursing

    While mental and physical health are often treated separately by the medical community, an increase in awareness has begun to change that approach. That awareness holds the view that the mind and body are inextricably linked when it comes to overall well-being. In line with this thinking, what psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) do…

  • Family Nurse Practitioner Role: Past, Present, and Future

    The nurse practitioner (NP) workforce has expanded its reach to deliver care to millions of patients nationwide, filling many roles left vacant by a shortage of primary care physicians and registered nurses (RNs). Many RNs are opting for early retirement, resigning from health care due to burnout, or pursuing careers outside of health care. This…

  • How to Use Big Data in Health Care

    The answer to the question “What is big data in health care?” involves understanding what big data can do for the industry, particularly since it can do quite a lot. It can not only impact direct patient care but improve care delivery and ultimately patient outcomes in the long term, from facility operation to medical…

  • Trends in Nursing Education: What to Expect for the Future

    More than ever, nurses are expected to enter the workforce knowing how to utilize new technology in everyday settings, so nurse educators are expected to teach the information effectively. The latest developments in learning — including virtual learning and adaptive technologies — help nurse educators provide better student outcomes, including better scores on certification and…

  • Differences Between DNP and Ph.D. Programs

    A notable difference between a DNP and Ph.D. in Nursing is the final outcome. A DNP focuses on improving health outcomes for patients through data-driven decision-making, while a Ph.D. in Nursing focuses on research-driven results to advance nursing as a profession. The difference in focus is not the only distinction between a DNP and Ph.D.…

  • What Is a Doctor of Nursing Practice?

    A DNP degree is a terminal degree designed to prepare nursing professionals with the skills to implement evidence-based interventions and improve health outcomes in the general population. The DNP program focuses on developing strategies that improve patient outcomes and health. The degree also prepares graduates to work in the following roles: Education – A DNP prepares…

  • DNP Requirements: What to Expect with the Admissions Process and Coursework

    Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) enter doctoral-level nursing school programs to meet the changing needs in health care and earn leadership roles that boost quality improvements in care management. Doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program courses encourages deep thinking and advanced clinical judgment. The DNP curriculum is designed to promote success at the highest level…

  • Colin Smith: Beads of Courage and Caring

    When Colin Smith hears from one of her former nursing students, the subject is often beads. Smith uses beads as a teaching aid in her role as an adjunct clinical faculty member at the Duquesne University School of Nursing. At the end of every week, each student takes one and talks about their new experiences.…

  • MSN vs. DNP: Degree Options for a Family Nurse Practitioner

    In 2004, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) identified the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) as the highest clinical practice degree for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). Unlike the research-focused Ph.D., the DNP focuses on using evidence-based outcomes to improve systems of care through direct patient contact, education, policy, and leadership. Since this…