• For this first course Discussion, you will present a philosophy of nursing practice that draws on your experience, area(s) of expertise, and beliefs. Looking ahead to your role as a DNP, also consider how to expand your awareness of issues beyond your own current practice—such as regarding diversity, global health, collaboration—and how to fulfill the Walden requirement to advocate for social change.

• Photo Credit: steheap / Adobe Stock

In short, begin now to commit to a higher level of contribution and practice as a DNP and to reflect that commitment in your philosophy of nursing practice for today and the future. As you continue through the course, note this image will appear with each Discussion and indicates an opportunity to connect your thinking with that of colleagues, for learning with and from one another.

To prepare:

• Review the Week 1 Learning Resources. Pay particular attention to the Chapter 1 reading from McEwen and Wills, “Philosophy, Science, and Nursing.”
• Reflect on your nursing experience, expertise you have developed, and beliefs about nursing and nursing practice you have formed as a result.
• Consider how your philosophy of nursing practice is shaped by these elements.
• Consider goals for expanding your professional awareness through the DNP program and the requirement as a Walden student to be an advocate for social change. How can your philosophy of nursing practice support you in these areas? How can these goals and Walden social change requirement enrich your philosophy of nursing practice?

With these thoughts in mind …

By Day 3 of Week 1

Post an explanation of your philosophy of nursing practice that briefly describes your nursing experience and area(s) of expertise. Be sure to explain your beliefs that inform your philosophy of nursing practice and your goals for expanding your experience and practice as a DNP (e.g., embrace of diversity, global health issues, collaboration). Then, explain the DNP role as a social change agent and recommend at least one way you will advocate for positive social change as a Walden DNP. Be specific and provide examples, with all citations in APA 7 style.

Learning Resources

Required Readings (click to expand/reduce)

McEwen, M., & Wills, E. M. (2019). Theoretical basis for nursing (5th ed.). Wolters Kluwer. 

• Chapter 1, “Philosophy, Science, and Nursing” (pp. 2–22) [PDF]
  Theoretical Basis for Nursing, 5th Edition by McEwen, M.; Wills, E. Copyright 2019 by Wolters Kluwer. Reprinted by permission of Wolters Kluwer via the Copyright Clearance Center. Licensed in 2020.

McEwen, M., & Wills, E. M. (2019). Theoretical basis for nursing (5th ed.). Wolters Kluwer. 

• Chapter 2, “Overview of Theory in Nursing” (pp. 23–48) [PDF]
  Theoretical Basis for Nursing, 5th Edition by McEwen, M.; Wills, E. Copyright 2019 by Wolters Kluwer. Reprinted by permission of Wolters Kluwer via the Copyright Clearance Center. Licensed in 2020.

Document: Handout: Writing a Philosophy of Nursing Practice (Word document)

Required Media (click to expand/reduce)

Optional Resources (click to expand/reduce)