The Vanderbilt Professional Nursing Practice Program: part 1: Growing and supporting professional nursing practice.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Professional Development
• Healthcare Workforce Management
• Clinical Ladder Programs

Background:

• Professional practice programs aim to enhance nurse recruitment, retention, and recognition.
• The Vanderbilt Professional Nursing Practice Program (VPNPP) is a performance-based system designed for nurses.
• This series introduces the VPNPP, starting with its foundational principles and structure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the Vanderbilt Professional Nursing Practice Program (VPNPP).
• To outline the foundational philosophy and structure of the VPNPP.
• To establish the basis for understanding nurse advancement within the program.

Main Methods:

• The VPNPP is structured around Patricia Benner's nursing expertise model.
• Four levels of nursing practice are defined: novice, competent, proficient, and expert.
• Expected behaviors at each practice level were identified to create evaluation criteria.

Main Results:

• The VPNPP framework is established, based on Benner's model of nursing practice.
• Defined levels of practice (novice to expert) provide a clear developmental pathway.
• Behavioral expectations at each level inform the development of evaluation criteria.

Conclusions:

• The VPNPP provides a structured approach to professional nursing development.
• The program's foundation is built on established nursing practice models and behavioral expectations.
• This foundational overview sets the stage for understanding the program's evaluation and advancement processes.