Examining Doctor of Nursing Practice Clinical Competency

An assessment of post-master's Doctor of Nurse Practice (DNP) education on clinical practice outcomes for master's-prepared advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) may inform DNP program development and practice. Electronic survey assessment of DNP-APRN perceptions of clinical competency after completion of post-master's DNP education indicated engagement in DNP Essentials. Overall, DNP-APRNs report consistently engaging in competencies associated with Essentials I, II, III, VI, VII, and VIII, and to a lesser extent, competencies for Essential IV. These findings indicate DNP-APRNs function as change agents, patient advocates, and proponents of improved patient and community outcomes. Comparisons before and after DNP-APRN education are indicated for assessment of practice and program development.