The APN must be committed to meeting the continuously changing healthcare needs of the community by assuming a leadership role in managing quality initiatives (AANP, 2022). This discussion post examines the competencies required for the role of an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) and project management concepts that align with this clinical practice role. Nursing research techniques and tools that are beneficial for completing a DNP project, as well as processes, methods, and project management strategies, will also be reviewed.
According to Sipes (2020), the APRN at the Doctorate of Nurse Practice (DNP) level requires application of project management skills for promotion of healthcare advancement. The APRN must ascertain clinical and complex clinical decision-making skills for best population health outcomes (Porat-Dahlerbruch et al., 2022). For example, the APRN is instrumental in implementing a quality initiative project that requires project management skills during the conceptual phase (Rew et al., 2020). Rew et al. (2020) suggest that using a conceptual theory will guide a successful DNP project. The conceptual nursing framework is organized and encompasses a relationship of collaborative practices (Porat-Dahlerbruch et al., 2022). The conceptual framework also aligns with the Scopes and Practices of the American Nurses Association [ANA] (2015). Rew (2020) states that problems are identified during the initial aspects of the conceptual phase. Thus, the ANA (2015) strongly supports nurses and advanced nurse leaders in identifying the physiological and psychological concerns that consider the patient’s best health outcomes.
Utilizing a project management process that fosters effective communication techniques, active listening, and insightful responses will reduce barriers throughout the planning, initiation, and termination phases (Porat-Dahlerbruch et al., 2022). The APRN must guide the healthcare delivery options while also respecting the rights of patients’ decisions, which coherently align with the ethical practices of the ANA (2015). A project management design that tests nursing phenomena and answers complex clinical questions with evidence-based knowledge is an effective tool for implementing and completing a successful DNP dissertation (Porat-Dahlerbruch et al., 2022). Rew (2022) cites that resource tools and nursing research will guide a foundational DNP project. For example, the PICO question is imperative for understanding the clinical (P) problem, utilizing an (I) intervention, (C) comparing the variables, and identifying the (O) outcome.
The APRN is responsible for translating evidence-based knowledge into clinical practice for promoting safe and quality care (AANP, 2022). Rew (2022) mentions that a sampling plan is essential for discovering outcomes and research design. Wheeler et al. (2022) support using qualitative designs to acquire lived experience data and quantitative designs to measure outcomes and test data validity. For example, the mental health population is gravely disposed to poor outcomes due to high rates of patients not following through with their post-plan of care treatments (Kyanko et al., 2022). A pilot study is instrumental in obtaining valid data relevant to patient’s perceptions and how they view their healthcare delivery options, which is imperative for stakeholder’s engagement during the project management process (Rew, 2022).
In conclusion, a literature review, data analysis, and study findings would be completed on the identified problem, such as social determinants of health barriers that enable patients to access outpatient mental health services within impoverished communities (Kyanko et al., 2022). Determining the strength of the evidence and appraisal table might also be techniques used based on learned concepts of project designs (Wheeler et al., 2022). The research process and resource tools for the DNP project would follow the steps outlined by Rew et al., 2020 for project management. For example, developing the focus for a PICO question would be the first step (Wheeler et al., 2022). Next, methods for conducting a literature review, data analysis, and study findings will be completed. Determining the strength of the evidence and appraisal table might also be techniques used based on learned concepts (Wheeler et al., 2022). The research process for the DNP project would follow the steps outlined by Rew et al. (2020) for a successful project management design.
American Association of Nurse Practitioners (2022). Scope of practice for nurse practitioners. https://www.aanp.org/advocacy/advocacy-resource/position-statements/scope-of-pract
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