This essential was met by rigorous hard science courses spread out through the first year of the DNP program. Classes in Gross Anatomy, Physiology, Pharmacology and Pathophysiology helped build the basic foundation to further explore disease processes in classes that followed, such as Adult and Pediatric Health, OB/GYN, and Geriatrics. The Infertility Management paper was the first major writing assignment, and it challenged me to put my new knowledge to work in the role of primary care provider to a young couple seeking care for infertility. This meant delving into the literature and searching-out all possible anatomical and physiological reasons that could be contributing to this medical issue so that I might guide the couple through a difficult time in their lives.

The Osteoporosis PowerPoint was a joint effort with other FNP students to create and teach a presentation to my colleagues on the nuances of the disease. The challenge was analyzing all of the medical and nursing science, and then creating a single, easy to follow guideline a provider could use in future practice to help diagnose and treat patients. The strong background in science I received at USUHS serves me well in clinical practice, as I continually turn to evidence-based literature to keep up-to-date on any latest changes in health care.