Background:

In the ever-evolving healthcare landscape, the implementation of evidence-based practices is fundamental to enhance patient care, optimize outcomes, and elevate healthcare experiences. Evidence implementation (EI) is not only for experienced healthcare professionals but also for students, such as those in a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. The DNP program equips nursing professionals with advanced knowledge and skills to lead, manage, and innovate in healthcare settings.

Objectives:

The objective of this initiative was to engage DNP students in EI processes to enhance their clinical decision-making skills and to foster EI capacity-building.

Methods:

The JBI Evidence Implementation Training Program (EITP) is a six-month program comprising two intensive training workshops and an EI project (EIP) carried out in the clinical setting in the interim months. The audit and feedback method taught in the EITP is frequently employed to enhance professional practice, either alone or as part of multidimensional EI efforts.

In 2021, the University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Nursing (UMMC SON) integrated the EITP into the DNP curriculum (see Figure 1). For systems integration, DNP students pay a JBI fee with their tuition, and each phase of the EIP is built into their coursework, over 4-5 semesters. Faculty serve as project advisors and the students’ electronic learning management system houses resources for each phase of the EIP and submission locations for associated assignments.

Results:

Positive patient and organizational outcomes are achieved with EIPs, and the DNP students receive real-world experience in translating evidence into practice. Since integration into the curriculum, 26 DNP students have completed the EITP and submitted reports for publication. The first cohort of students (n=12) achieved a 75% publication rate, and the second cohort (n=14) achieved a 50% publication rate, though data for this cohort is incomplete.

Conclusions:

Hands-on engagement in real-world EIPs enables DNP students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges and rewards of driving change in healthcare settings. Integrating EI principles and methodologies into DNP education is vital to prepare future nursing leaders for the realities of healthcare practice.