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attached is the word with the question and information needed, Template attached as MD3 assignment – ## Module6assignment.docx – MD3Assgn_Sanchez_J1.docx **## Module6assignment.docx** Module 6 assignment **To Prepare:** · Review the scope and standards of practice or competencies related to your c…
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attached is the word with the question and information needed, Template attached as MD3 assignment
– ## Module6assignment.docx
– MD3Assgn_Sanchez_J1.docx
**## Module6assignment.docx**
Module 6 assignment
**To Prepare:**
· Review the scope and standards of practice or competencies related to your chosen specialty in the resources for this module.
· Review the MSN or PMC specializations offered at Walden by viewing the module resource, Walden University. (n.d.). Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).
· Examine professional organizations related to the specialization you have chosen and identify at least one to focus on for this Assignment.
· Reflect on the thoughts you shared in the Discussion forum regarding your choice of a specialty, any challenges you have encountered in making this choice, and any feedback you have received from colleagues in the Discussion.
**The Assignment:**
Complete the following items and incorporate them into the final version of your Academic Success and Professional Development Plan.
· With the resources specific to the MSN or PMC specialization and the Walden University. (n.d.). Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or PMC, shared in this module, write a paragraph or make a Nursing Specialty Comparison table, comparing at least two nursing specialties that include your selected specialization and second-preferred specialization.
· Write a 2- to 3-paragraph justification statement identifying your reasons for choosing your MSN or PMC specialization. Incorporate feedback you received from colleagues in this Module’s Discussion forum.
· Identify the professional organization related to your chosen specialization for this Assignment, and explain how you can become an active member of this organization.
**_Note:_** _Your final version of the Academic Success and Professional Development Plan should include all components as presented the Academic Success and Professional Development Plan template._
**Template will be attached too**
This is last week's discussion post:
**My Decision to Pursue the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Specialty**
Choosing a nursing specialty within the MSN program required significant reflection on my professional experiences, values, and future goals. After working for several years in intensive and intermediate care units, I realized that my greatest passion lies in managing acutely ill adults and older adults with complex health conditions. This motivated me to pursue the
**Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP)** track at Walden University. This specialty aligns with my desire to enhance my clinical expertise, exercise advanced decision-making skills, and assume leadership roles in the acute care setting. I believe that advanced education will strengthen my ability to provide holistic, evidence-based care to critically ill patients while promoting interprofessional collaboration and continuity of care.
Initially, deciding on a specialty was not easy. I explored both the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) programs due to their broad scope and versatility. However, I realized that the fast-paced, technology-driven environment of acute care best fits my skills and professional interests. As Bickford et al. (2015) emphasized, aligning one’s nursing practice with established standards and competencies ensures that nurses function within their full potential while maintaining professional integrity. Similarly, Walden University (n.d.) emphasizes that choosing the right specialty allows nurses to translate their prior clinical experience into advanced roles that improve patient and system-level outcomes. My decision was also driven by the growing need for acute care nurse practitioners to manage the increasing complexity of the aging population and chronic disease burden in hospital settings.
A professional organization that closely aligns with this specialty is the
**American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN)**. AACN offers extensive resources for continuing education, certification preparation, and professional networking for nurses in acute and critical care. Membership involves submitting an online application and selecting the appropriate category—student, active, or affiliate. Members gain access to educational materials, journals, and national conferences that support leadership and advocacy in critical care (Echevarria, 2018). Through AACN, I plan to continue developing my professional identity, stay current with evidence-based practice standards, and contribute to the advancement of acute care nursing.
In conclusion, pursuing the AG-ACNP specialty is both a professional and personal commitment to advancing the quality of care for complex adult and geriatric patients. This path integrates my critical care background, passion for learning, and aspiration to influence positive change within the healthcare system.
**References**
Bickford, C. J., Marion, L., & Gazaway, S. (2015).
_Nursing: Scope and standards of practice_ (3rd ed.). American Nurses Association.
Echevarria, I. M. (2018). Make connections by joining a professional nursing organization.
_Nursing, 48_(12), 35–38. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.NURSE.0000547739.19088.13
Walden University. (n.d.).
_Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)._ [https://www.waldenu.edu/masters/master-of-science-in-nursingLinks to an external site.](https://www.waldenu.edu/masters/master-of-science-in-nursing)
Resources and references
·
**Adult-Gerontology Acute Care and Primary Care NP Competencies**
**Website: AGAC and ACPC NP Competencies**
Adult-Gerontology NP Competencies Work Group. (2016).
[_Adult-gerontology acute care and primary care NP competencies_ Links to an external site.](https://cdn.ymaws.com/www.nonpf.org/resource/resmgr/competencies/NP_Adult_Geri_competencies_4.pdf). https://cdn.ymaws.com/www.nonpf.org/resource/resmgr/competencies/NP_Adult_Geri_competencies_4.pdf
· Walden University. (n.d.).
[Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)Links to an external site.](https://www.waldenu.edu/masters/master-of-science-in-nursing). Retrieved November 14, 2018, from
[https://www.waldenu.edu/masters/master-of-science-in-nursing](https://www.waldenu.edu/masters/master-of-science-in-nursing)
Students feedback from week discussion:
[**Lauren Elizabeth Isenhour**](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/186315/users/183553)
Oct 30 2:11am
**Reply from Lauren Elizabeth Isenhour**
Julian,
I, too, am pursuing the AGACNP pathway. I also was debating between the FNP and AGACNP paths, but as you described the AGACNP path offers more opportunity for care of critically ill adult patients. You make an excellent point about AGACNP allowing more leadership opportunities. The American Association of Nurse Practitioners describes how more critical care and specialty units are turning to AGACNPs for leadership roles and clinical expertise (Jackson et al., 2023). This aligns with your career goals of providing acute care in leadership positions, making the AGACNP pathway a good choice.
Your description of the AACN is complete and accurate. Are you a current member? If not, I would recommend that you join. I am a member and take advantage of their CEs including digital seminars and articles to stay current and evidence-based in my bedside practice. This will be especially beneficial to us as novice APPs so that we can become more familiar with current practices in our chosen fields. AACN's commitment to evidence-based, current practices allows for nurses and nurse practitioners to demonstrate competence through evidence-based learning exercises and providing resources through their historical logs (Dugan & Altmiller, 2023). This will remain a resource for us to use for both clinical practice and decision-making.
Looking forward to future classes with you!
Lauren
References:
Dugan, M. A., & Altmiller, G. (2023). AACN Essentials and nurse practitioner education: competency-based case studies grounded in authentic practice.
_Journal of Professional Nursing_,
_46_, 59-64.
Jackson, K., McCauley, P., Konick-McMahan, J., & Mirza, C. (2023). Contemporary adult gerontology acute care nurse practitioner (AGACNP) practice: Findings from the 2020 American Association of Critical Care Nurses AGACNP practice analysis survey.
_Journal of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners_,
_35_(3), 199-207.
[**Whitney Morgan Davis**](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/186315/users/183655)
Nov 1 12:56pm
**Reply from Whitney Morgan Davis**
**Whitney’s Response to Julian:**
Hello Julian,
Your reflection on choosing the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP) specialty is both insightful and inspiring. I admire how clearly you connected your clinical experience in intensive and intermediate care settings with your professional aspirations. It is evident that you have chosen a path that aligns with your passion for managing acutely ill adults and older adults, which is central to improving outcomes for complex patient populations.
I especially appreciate your acknowledgment that this decision required significant reflection and self-assessment. Many nurses face similar challenges when narrowing their focus within advanced practice roles, and your reasoning demonstrates strong professional maturity. Your emphasis on the fast-paced, technology-driven nature of acute care highlights your awareness of where your skills and motivation are best utilized. This self-awareness is essential for success in advanced nursing practice.
Your reference to Bickford, Marion, and Gazaway (2015) was particularly appropriate. Their emphasis on aligning one’s practice with established standards and competencies reinforces that your decision is grounded in both professional ethics and evidence-based frameworks. Furthermore, your point about the aging population and increasing chronic disease burden reflects a deep understanding of the healthcare system’s current challenges and the vital role AG-ACNPs play in addressing them.
I also agree with your choice to join the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN). As Echevarria (2018) notes, professional organizations foster essential connections that strengthen leadership, promote continuing education, and build a strong professional identity. The AACN provides an exceptional platform for collaboration, advocacy, and ongoing learning, which will undoubtedly enhance your development as an advanced practice nurse.
While my own focus is on the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) role, I recognize that both specialties share a foundation in holistic, evidence-based care. However, your decision to remain in acute care demonstrates a commendable dedication to a challenging yet deeply impactful area of practice. I have no doubt that your advanced education will empower you to lead and advocate effectively within critical care environments.
**References**
Bickford, C. J., Marion, L., & Gazaway, S. (2015). Nursing: Scope and standards of practice (3rd ed.). American Nurses Association.
Echevarria, I. M. (2018). Make connections by joining a professional nursing organization. Nursing, 48(12), 35–38. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.NURSE.0000547739.19088.13
**MD3Assgn_Sanchez_J1.docx**
This file is too large to display. [View in new window](https://www.sweetstudy.com/files/md3assgn-sanchez-j1-docx)
**MD3Assgn_Sanchez_J1.docx**
This file is too large to display. [View in new window](https://www.sweetstudy.com/files/md3assgn-sanchez-j1-docx)
**## Module6assignment.docx**
Module 6 assignment
**To Prepare:**
· Review the scope and standards of practice or competencies related to your chosen specialty in the resources for this module.
· Review the MSN or PMC specializations offered at Walden by viewing the module resource, Walden University. (n.d.). Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).
· Examine professional organizations related to the specialization you have chosen and identify at least one to focus on for this Assignment.
· Reflect on the thoughts you shared in the Discussion forum regarding your choice of a specialty, any challenges you have encountered in making this choice, and any feedback you have received from colleagues in the Discussion.
**The Assignment:**
Complete the following items and incorporate them into the final version of your Academic Success and Professional Development Plan.
· With the resources specific to the MSN or PMC specialization and the Walden University. (n.d.). Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or PMC, shared in this module, write a paragraph or make a Nursing Specialty Comparison table, comparing at least two nursing specialties that include your selected specialization and second-preferred specialization.
· Write a 2- to 3-paragraph justification statement identifying your reasons for choosing your MSN or PMC specialization. Incorporate feedback you received from colleagues in this Module’s Discussion forum.
· Identify the professional organization related to your chosen specialization for this Assignment, and explain how you can become an active member of this organization.
**_Note:_** _Your final version of the Academic Success and Professional Development Plan should include all components as presented the Academic Success and Professional Development Plan template._
**Template will be attached too**
This is last week's discussion post:
**My Decision to Pursue the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Specialty**
Choosing a nursing specialty within the MSN program required significant reflection on my professional experiences, values, and future goals. After working for several years in intensive and intermediate care units, I realized that my greatest passion lies in managing acutely ill adults and older adults with complex health conditions. This motivated me to pursue the
**Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP)** track at Walden University. This specialty aligns with my desire to enhance my clinical expertise, exercise advanced decision-making skills, and assume leadership roles in the acute care setting. I believe that advanced education will strengthen my ability to provide holistic, evidence-based care to critically ill patients while promoting interprofessional collaboration and continuity of care.
Initially, deciding on a specialty was not easy. I explored both the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) programs due to their broad scope and versatility. However, I realized that the fast-paced, technology-driven environment of acute care best fits my skills and professional interests. As Bickford et al. (2015) emphasized, aligning one’s nursing practice with established standards and competencies ensures that nurses function within their full potential while maintaining professional integrity. Similarly, Walden University (n.d.) emphasizes that choosing the right specialty allows nurses to translate their prior clinical experience into advanced roles that improve patient and system-level outcomes. My decision was also driven by the growing need for acute care nurse practitioners to manage the increasing complexity of the aging population and chronic disease burden in hospital settings.
A professional organization that closely aligns with this specialty is the
**American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN)**. AACN offers extensive resources for continuing education, certification preparation, and professional networking for nurses in acute and critical care. Membership involves submitting an online application and selecting the appropriate category—student, active, or affiliate. Members gain access to educational materials, journals, and national conferences that support leadership and advocacy in critical care (Echevarria, 2018). Through AACN, I plan to continue developing my professional identity, stay current with evidence-based practice standards, and contribute to the advancement of acute care nursing.
In conclusion, pursuing the AG-ACNP specialty is both a professional and personal commitment to advancing the quality of care for complex adult and geriatric patients. This path integrates my critical care background, passion for learning, and aspiration to influence positive change within the healthcare system.
**References**
Bickford, C. J., Marion, L., & Gazaway, S. (2015).
_Nursing: Scope and standards of practice_ (3rd ed.). American Nurses Association.
Echevarria, I. M. (2018). Make connections by joining a professional nursing organization.
_Nursing, 48_(12), 35–38. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.NURSE.0000547739.19088.13
Walden University. (n.d.).
_Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)._ [https://www.waldenu.edu/masters/master-of-science-in-nursingLinks to an external site.](https://www.waldenu.edu/masters/master-of-science-in-nursing)
Resources and references
·
**Adult-Gerontology Acute Care and Primary Care NP Competencies**
**Website: AGAC and ACPC NP Competencies**
Adult-Gerontology NP Competencies Work Group. (2016).
[_Adult-gerontology acute care and primary care NP competencies_ Links to an external site.](https://cdn.ymaws.com/www.nonpf.org/resource/resmgr/competencies/NP_Adult_Geri_competencies_4.pdf). https://cdn.ymaws.com/www.nonpf.org/resource/resmgr/competencies/NP_Adult_Geri_competencies_4.pdf
· Walden University. (n.d.).
[Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)Links to an external site.](https://www.waldenu.edu/masters/master-of-science-in-nursing). Retrieved November 14, 2018, from
[https://www.waldenu.edu/masters/master-of-science-in-nursing](https://www.waldenu.edu/masters/master-of-science-in-nursing)
Students feedback from week discussion:
[**Lauren Elizabeth Isenhour**](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/186315/users/183553)
Oct 30 2:11am
**Reply from Lauren Elizabeth Isenhour**
Julian,
I, too, am pursuing the AGACNP pathway. I also was debating between the FNP and AGACNP paths, but as you described the AGACNP path offers more opportunity for care of critically ill adult patients. You make an excellent point about AGACNP allowing more leadership opportunities. The American Association of Nurse Practitioners describes how more critical care and specialty units are turning to AGACNPs for leadership roles and clinical expertise (Jackson et al., 2023). This aligns with your career goals of providing acute care in leadership positions, making the AGACNP pathway a good choice.
Your description of the AACN is complete and accurate. Are you a current member? If not, I would recommend that you join. I am a member and take advantage of their CEs including digital seminars and articles to stay current and evidence-based in my bedside practice. This will be especially beneficial to us as novice APPs so that we can become more familiar with current practices in our chosen fields. AACN's commitment to evidence-based, current practices allows for nurses and nurse practitioners to demonstrate competence through evidence-based learning exercises and providing resources through their historical logs (Dugan & Altmiller, 2023). This will remain a resource for us to use for both clinical practice and decision-making.
Looking forward to future classes with you!
Lauren
References:
Dugan, M. A., & Altmiller, G. (2023). AACN Essentials and nurse practitioner education: competency-based case studies grounded in authentic practice.
_Journal of Professional Nursing_,
_46_, 59-64.
Jackson, K., McCauley, P., Konick-McMahan, J., & Mirza, C. (2023). Contemporary adult gerontology acute care nurse practitioner (AGACNP) practice: Findings from the 2020 American Association of Critical Care Nurses AGACNP practice analysis survey.
_Journal of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners_,
_35_(3), 199-207.
[**Whitney Morgan Davis**](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/186315/users/183655)
Nov 1 12:56pm
**Reply from Whitney Morgan Davis**
**Whitney’s Response to Julian:**
Hello Julian,
Your reflection on choosing the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP) specialty is both insightful and inspiring. I admire how clearly you connected your clinical experience in intensive and intermediate care settings with your professional aspirations. It is evident that you have chosen a path that aligns with your passion for managing acutely ill adults and older adults, which is central to improving outcomes for complex patient populations.
I especially appreciate your acknowledgment that this decision required significant reflection and self-assessment. Many nurses face similar challenges when narrowing their focus within advanced practice roles, and your reasoning demonstrates strong professional maturity. Your emphasis on the fast-paced, technology-driven nature of acute care highlights your awareness of where your skills and motivation are best utilized. This self-awareness is essential for success in advanced nursing practice.
Your reference to Bickford, Marion, and Gazaway (2015) was particularly appropriate. Their emphasis on aligning one’s practice with established standards and competencies reinforces that your decision is grounded in both professional ethics and evidence-based frameworks. Furthermore, your point about the aging population and increasing chronic disease burden reflects a deep understanding of the healthcare system’s current challenges and the vital role AG-ACNPs play in addressing them.
I also agree with your choice to join the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN). As Echevarria (2018) notes, professional organizations foster essential connections that strengthen leadership, promote continuing education, and build a strong professional identity. The AACN provides an exceptional platform for collaboration, advocacy, and ongoing learning, which will undoubtedly enhance your development as an advanced practice nurse.
While my own focus is on the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) role, I recognize that both specialties share a foundation in holistic, evidence-based care. However, your decision to remain in acute care demonstrates a commendable dedication to a challenging yet deeply impactful area of practice. I have no doubt that your advanced education will empower you to lead and advocate effectively within critical care environments.
**References**
Bickford, C. J., Marion, L., & Gazaway, S. (2015). Nursing: Scope and standards of practice (3rd ed.). American Nurses Association.
Echevarria, I. M. (2018). Make connections by joining a professional nursing organization. Nursing, 48(12), 35–38. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.NURSE.0000547739.19088.13
**MD3Assgn_Sanchez_J1.docx**
This file is too large to display. [View in new window](https://www.sweetstudy.com/files/md3assgn-sanchez-j1-docx)
**## Module6assignment.docx**
Module 6 assignment
**To Prepare:**
· Review the scope and standards of practice or competencies related to your chosen specialty in the resources for this module.
· Review the MSN or PMC specializations offered at Walden by viewing the module resource, Walden University. (n.d.). Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).
· Examine professional organizations related to the specialization you have chosen and identify at least one to focus on for this Assignment.
· Reflect on the thoughts you shared in the Discussion forum regarding your choice of a specialty, any challenges you have encountered in making this choice, and any feedback you have received from colleagues in the Discussion.
**The Assignment:**
Complete the following items and incorporate them into the final version of your Academic Success and Professional Development Plan.
· With the resources specific to the MSN or PMC specialization and the Walden University. (n.d.). Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or PMC, shared in this module, write a paragraph or make a Nursing Specialty Comparison table, comparing at least two nursing specialties that include your selected specialization and second-preferred specialization.
· Write a 2- to 3-paragraph justification statement identifying your reasons for choosing your MSN or PMC specialization. Incorporate feedback you received from colleagues in this Module’s Discussion forum.
· Identify the professional organization related to your chosen specialization for this Assignment, and explain how you can become an active member of this organization.
**_Note:_** _Your final version of the Academic Success and Professional Development Plan should include all components as presented the Academic Success and Professional Development Plan template._
**Template will be attached too**
This is last week's discussion post:
**My Decision to Pursue the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Specialty**
Choosing a nursing specialty within the MSN program required significant reflection on my professional experiences, values, and future goals. After working for several years in intensive and intermediate care units, I realized that my greatest passion lies in managing acutely ill adults and older adults with complex health conditions. This motivated me to pursue the
**Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP)** track at Walden University. This specialty aligns with my desire to enhance my clinical expertise, exercise advanced decision-making skills, and assume leadership roles in the acute care setting. I believe that advanced education will strengthen my ability to provide holistic, evidence-based care to critically ill patients while promoting interprofessional collaboration and continuity of care.
Initially, deciding on a specialty was not easy. I explored both the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) programs due to their broad scope and versatility. However, I realized that the fast-paced, technology-driven environment of acute care best fits my skills and professional interests. As Bickford et al. (2015) emphasized, aligning one’s nursing practice with established standards and competencies ensures that nurses function within their full potential while maintaining professional integrity. Similarly, Walden University (n.d.) emphasizes that choosing the right specialty allows nurses to translate their prior clinical experience into advanced roles that improve patient and system-level outcomes. My decision was also driven by the growing need for acute care nurse practitioners to manage the increasing complexity of the aging population and chronic disease burden in hospital settings.
A professional organization that closely aligns with this specialty is the
**American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN)**. AACN offers extensive resources for continuing education, certification preparation, and professional networking for nurses in acute and critical care. Membership involves submitting an online application and selecting the appropriate category—student, active, or affiliate. Members gain access to educational materials, journals, and national conferences that support leadership and advocacy in critical care (Echevarria, 2018). Through AACN, I plan to continue developing my professional identity, stay current with evidence-based practice standards, and contribute to the advancement of acute care nursing.
In conclusion, pursuing the AG-ACNP specialty is both a professional and personal commitment to advancing the quality of care for complex adult and geriatric patients. This path integrates my critical care background, passion for learning, and aspiration to influence positive change within the healthcare system.
**References**
Bickford, C. J., Marion, L., & Gazaway, S. (2015).
_Nursing: Scope and standards of practice_ (3rd ed.). American Nurses Association.
Echevarria, I. M. (2018). Make connections by joining a professional nursing organization.
_Nursing, 48_(12), 35–38. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.NURSE.0000547739.19088.13
Walden University. (n.d.).
_Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)._ [https://www.waldenu.edu/masters/master-of-science-in-nursingLinks to an external site.](https://www.waldenu.edu/masters/master-of-science-in-nursing)
Resources and references
·
**Adult-Gerontology Acute Care and Primary Care NP Competencies**
**Website: AGAC and ACPC NP Competencies**
Adult-Gerontology NP Competencies Work Group. (2016).
[_Adult-gerontology acute care and primary care NP competencies_ Links to an external site.](https://cdn.ymaws.com/www.nonpf.org/resource/resmgr/competencies/NP_Adult_Geri_competencies_4.pdf). https://cdn.ymaws.com/www.nonpf.org/resource/resmgr/competencies/NP_Adult_Geri_competencies_4.pdf
· Walden University. (n.d.).
[Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)Links to an external site.](https://www.waldenu.edu/masters/master-of-science-in-nursing). Retrieved November 14, 2018, from
[https://www.waldenu.edu/masters/master-of-science-in-nursing](https://www.waldenu.edu/masters/master-of-science-in-nursing)
Students feedback from week discussion:
[**Lauren Elizabeth Isenhour**](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/186315/users/183553)
Oct 30 2:11am
**Reply from Lauren Elizabeth Isenhour**
Julian,
I, too, am pursuing the AGACNP pathway. I also was debating between the FNP and AGACNP paths, but as you described the AGACNP path offers more opportunity for care of critically ill adult patients. You make an excellent point about AGACNP allowing more leadership opportunities. The American Association of Nurse Practitioners describes how more critical care and specialty units are turning to AGACNPs for leadership roles and clinical expertise (Jackson et al., 2023). This aligns with your career goals of providing acute care in leadership positions, making the AGACNP pathway a good choice.
Your description of the AACN is complete and accurate. Are you a current member? If not, I would recommend that you join. I am a member and take advantage of their CEs including digital seminars and articles to stay current and evidence-based in my bedside practice. This will be especially beneficial to us as novice APPs so that we can become more familiar with current practices in our chosen fields. AACN's commitment to evidence-based, current practices allows for nurses and nurse practitioners to demonstrate competence through evidence-based learning exercises and providing resources through their historical logs (Dugan & Altmiller, 2023). This will remain a resource for us to use for both clinical practice and decision-making.
Looking forward to future classes with you!
Lauren
References:
Dugan, M. A., & Altmiller, G. (2023). AACN Essentials and nurse practitioner education: competency-based case studies grounded in authentic practice.
_Journal of Professional Nursing_,
_46_, 59-64.
Jackson, K., McCauley, P., Konick-McMahan, J., & Mirza, C. (2023). Contemporary adult gerontology acute care nurse practitioner (AGACNP) practice: Findings from the 2020 American Association of Critical Care Nurses AGACNP practice analysis survey.
_Journal of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners_,
_35_(3), 199-207.
[**Whitney Morgan Davis**](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/186315/users/183655)
Nov 1 12:56pm
**Reply from Whitney Morgan Davis**
**Whitney’s Response to Julian:**
Hello Julian,
Your reflection on choosing the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP) specialty is both insightful and inspiring. I admire how clearly you connected your clinical experience in intensive and intermediate care settings with your professional aspirations. It is evident that you have chosen a path that aligns with your passion for managing acutely ill adults and older adults, which is central to improving outcomes for complex patient populations.
I especially appreciate your acknowledgment that this decision required significant reflection and self-assessment. Many nurses face similar challenges when narrowing their focus within advanced practice roles, and your reasoning demonstrates strong professional maturity. Your emphasis on the fast-paced, technology-driven nature of acute care highlights your awareness of where your skills and motivation are best utilized. This self-awareness is essential for success in advanced nursing practice.
Your reference to Bickford, Marion, and Gazaway (2015) was particularly appropriate. Their emphasis on aligning one’s practice with established standards and competencies reinforces that your decision is grounded in both professional ethics and evidence-based frameworks. Furthermore, your point about the aging population and increasing chronic disease burden reflects a deep understanding of the healthcare system’s current challenges and the vital role AG-ACNPs play in addressing them.
I also agree with your choice to join the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN). As Echevarria (2018) notes, professional organizations foster essential connections that strengthen leadership, promote continuing education, and build a strong professional identity. The AACN provides an exceptional platform for collaboration, advocacy, and ongoing learning, which will undoubtedly enhance your development as an advanced practice nurse.
While my own focus is on the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) role, I recognize that both specialties share a foundation in holistic, evidence-based care. However, your decision to remain in acute care demonstrates a commendable dedication to a challenging yet deeply impactful area of practice. I have no doubt that your advanced education will empower you to lead and advocate effectively within critical care environments.
**References**
Bickford, C. J., Marion, L., & Gazaway, S. (2015). Nursing: Scope and standards of practice (3rd ed.). American Nurses Association.
Echevarria, I. M. (2018). Make connections by joining a professional nursing organization. Nursing, 48(12), 35–38. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.NURSE.0000547739.19088.13
**MD3Assgn_Sanchez_J1.docx**
This file is too large to display. [View in new window](https://www.sweetstudy.com/files/md3assgn-sanchez-j1-docx)
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