Description/Overview: There is a need to determine the curricular fabric that supports the evolving DNP role, the needs of patients navigating complex healthcare systems, and the requirement to deliver best outcomes. DNP curricula across the country are inconsistent, which can lead to confusion about expectations of DNPs as well as a missed opportunity to fully actualize the potential of this role. This symposium will offer a solution to this quandary by providing clarity about the academic preparation of evidence-based DNPs and their unique impact on nursing practice and healthcare systems. In addition, the capacity of the evidence-based DNP to fully actualize the DNP role in addressing the healthcare challenges of the future will also be presented.

Learner Objective #1: The learner will be able to compare the characteristics of an integrated evidence-based practice DNP curriculum to other DNP curricula.

Learner Objective #2: The learner will be able to describe the unique contributions that an evidence-based DNP brings to nursing practice and healthcare systems.