Date of Graduation

Spring 5-18-2023

Document Type

Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

College/School

School of Nursing and Health Professions

Department/Program

Nursing

Program

Executive Leader DNP

First Advisor

Elena Capella

Second Advisor

Nicholas R. Webb

Abstract

Background: In the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) 2020 annual survey, nursing schools turned away 66,274 entry-level applications to baccalaureate nursing programs in the United States due to a faculty shortage and clinical placement sites (AACN, 2021).

Local Problem: Hospitals need more qualified nurses to meet community needs. The need for clinical faculty and additional clinical placement sites disrupts the workforce pipeline through local nursing schools. A new approach to clinical education is needed to prepare more students for the growing complexities of independent nursing practice.

Methods: Dedicated Education Unit (DEU) implementation to expand pre-licensure nursing student clinical placement. Pre-and post-intervention survey instruments assessed students' and new clinical instructors' perceived self-efficacy and confidence.

Interventions: New clinical instructors were trained on the DEU model, emphasizing Quality and Safety Education for Nurses (QSEN) competencies and team processes. Following the training, students and clinical experience participated in a 14-week clinical experience in the DEU model.

Results: The post-intervention survey showed increased student-perceived self-efficacy and confidence in managing clinical quality, safety, and team processes related to their experience in the DEU.

Conclusion: The DEU model creates a cost-effective alternative to traditional clinical instruction.

Download

Share

COinS