Capturing the Impact of the Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree on West Texas Health Care

Background: This article describes findings from a Phase 1 investigation exploring the influence of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)-prepared nurses in West Texas. Method: Following a focus group session with eight practicing DNPs, the focus group shared how their roles effected safer health care. Results: Final takeaways included their commitment to safer health care and prevention, moving care to the community, and a wish for more variety in projects generated in workplaces. Three themes emerged from the data: DNP leadership practice affects health outcomes through improved quality of care, influence, and innovation; DNP strengths include communication, leadership, and ability to change others' thinking; and the influence of DNP-prepared leaders at all external levels occurs through both increasing awareness of the role and influencing in multiple areas. DNP challenges include lack of understanding by others of the role and the lack of recognition and respect for their educational preparation. Conclusion: Leading, innovating, and communicating during constantly changing care models are key skills needed during the current health care crisis. These skills are basic to DNP practice.