White Coats Presented to Doctor of Nursing Practice Students
Lindsay Bouchard, DNP, PMHNP-BC, RN, an associate clinical professor and the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specialty coordinator, congratulates Mehdi Thomas after presenting him with his white coat at the UArizona College of Nursing white coat ceremony.
The University of Arizona College of Nursing held its 2023 white coat ceremony for Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) students Jan. 13 at Crowder Hall. The tradition, which began in 2015, marks the beginning of the clinical phase of the program and allows students to affirm their commitment to providing compassionate, patient-centered care as future advanced nurse practitioners.
A total of 111 students attended this year’s ceremony, which included remarks from the dean and senior faculty, as well as a recitation of the student oath of responsibility. The oath is a reiteration of the values students have learned and their commitment to apply their knowledge, experience and skills to ensure optimal outcomes for their patients.
Kathleen C. Insel, PhD, RN, the interim dean for the College of Nursing, said in her opening remarks: “You are receiving an education that challenges you to think critically and tackle the issues that need to be addressed to improve health care. During your clinical education journey, look around and take note. Embrace the good and acknowledge the problems in our health care systems. Lead the profession and make us proud of your Wildcat effort.”
A video of the ceremony can be viewed online.
