Advancing scholarship through translational research: The role of PhD and DNP prepared nurses

Abstract

Nurses prepared in research and practice focused doctoral programs make important contributions to the development and implementation of the science that shapes nursing practice. This article explores the different, yet complementary roles that PhD and DNP prepared nurses make to the scholarship of discovery within the discipline of nursing. The impact of translational research, implementation science, and improvement science on the quality of healthcare is explored, along with the possibilities presented by big data. Examples of successful collaborations are highlighted, including opportunities for DNP and PhD faculty to advance scholarship and research. The authors consider the context of these roles in both research and practice and academia.