To the Editors:

Thank you so much for addressing the American Association of Colleges of Nursing proposal to implement the doctor of nursing practice (DNP) as the preparation for advanced practice nursing. This is indeed an important issue that all nurses need to learn about and discuss with their colleagues. A preliminary draft of the DNP essentials document can be found on the Colleges Web site at http://www.aacn.nche.edu/. In the next several months, regional hearings will be held around the country to solicit input from all those who would like to attend.

We believe the DNP will help improve patient outcomes, clinical practice, and the stature of the profession. Advanced practice nurses at the DNP level will be educated to deliver excellent care and also to evaluate the outcomes of that care within the context of evidence-based practice and current healthcare systems. The lack of parity and respect that...

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