Transformative Nursing Professional Development Education: Leadership Skills and Evidence-Based Projects in a DNE...

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Leadership
• Professional Development

Background:

• Lack of tailored terminal degrees for nurses in professional development until Spring 2023.
• The Ohio State University College of Nursing introduced the Doctor of Nursing Education (DNE) program with academic nurse educator and nursing professional development (NPD) tracks.
• Addresses the national shortage of doctorally prepared nurse educators and prepares graduates for educational leadership.

Purpose of the Study:

• Describe the curriculum and leadership focus of the NPD track of the DNE program.
• Align the NPD track with the Association for Nursing Professional Development scope and standards of practice (2022).
• Highlight four capstone projects implemented by NPD practitioners in healthcare settings.

Main Methods:

• The DNE program's NPD track curriculum.
• Implementation of four capstone projects by NPD practitioners.
• Projects focused on evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and program evaluation.

Main Results:

• Capstone projects improved clinical teaching effectiveness.
• Enhanced nurse certification processes and outcomes.
• Strengthened interdisciplinary collaboration and new graduate nurse mentoring.

Conclusions:

• The DNE program's NPD track demonstrates transformative impact on healthcare practice.
• Doctoral education in nursing professional development drives significant improvements.
• Graduates are prepared to lead educational change in diverse healthcare settings.