Authors

  1. Tharp-Barrie, Kim DNP, RN, SANE, FNAP
  2. Williams, Tracy E. DNP, RN, FNAP, FAAN
  3. Howard, Patricia B. PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN
  4. El-Mallakh, Peggy PhD, PMHNP-BC, RN
  5. MacCallum, Tricia BA

Abstract

This article describes a practice improvement initiative (PII) demonstrating the impact of doctorate of nursing practice (DNP) skills beyond direct patient care. The Donna Wright Competency Assessment Model, AACN DNP Essentials, and National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties nurse practitioner competencies framed the PII. The DNP graduates planned, implemented, and evaluated an assessment of 1,055 staff nurses on shift hand-off, physical assessment, and hand hygiene. Results indicated that 95% of the staff nurses scored 100% on competency assessment. The PII model was adopted for future competency evaluation.