ABSTRACT
This article explains the development of a value-added leadership focus to a graduate nursing program. With the changes to and complexity within the health care system, advanced practice nurses need academic preparation in advanced care management of populations and leadership competencies. Strategic environmental scanning suggested that some revisions could better prepare future nurse leaders. Through literature review and focus groups, faculty's analysis provided evidence for development of a different kind of advanced practice nurse. This process led to a graduate program that prepares nurse leaders who are competent in the clinical settings and leadership roles of today’s health care organizations. The 40-semester hour program allows flexibility for minimum career disruption and a choice of tracks to accommodate individuals' educational needs. Grounded in practicum experiences and guided by health care theory, policy, and research, graduates possess the knowledge and competencies to assume the advanced leadership roles required in future health care systems.
AUTHORS
Received: May 7, 2008
Accepted: February 4, 2009
Posted: November 25, 2009
Dr. Aduddell is Associate Professor, WellStar School of Nursing, and Director, Center for Community Health Care, WellStar College of Health and Human Services, and Dr. Dorman is Professor of Nursing, WellStar School of Nursing, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, Georgia.
Address correspondence to Dr. Kathie A. Aduddell, EdD, RN, Associate Professor, Kennesaw State University, 1000 Chastain Rd. #1601, Kennesaw, GA 30144; e-mail: kaduddel@kennesaw.edu.
doi:10.3928/01484834-20090916-08
