From improving HIV and sexually transmitted infection screening rates among vulnerable youth to strengthening mentorship preparation for future nurses, Indiana University School of Nursing Doctor of Nursing Practice graduates are using evidence-based solutions to address real-world healthcare challenges.
Through the choice of multiple tracks in the DNP program, students are prepared to make a difference by developing the leadership, clinical expertise, and quality improvement skills needed to advance patient care and shape the future of nursing.
As part of fulfilling the DNP program requirements, students complete a project under the guidance of faculty and nurse leader mentors that focuses on improving healthcare outcomes and must be implemented in a variety of settings. Among the 11 graduates who completed DNP projects this spring, students addressed a range of healthcare and educational challenges.
DNP graduate Patricia Monterrosa examined whether a standardized, age-appropriate screening script could increase HIV and STI screening rates among young people—a population experiencing rising rates of both infections. Her project found that using an opt-out screening approach improved HIV screening rates and increased overall STI and HIV screening over time.
“My inspiration to pursue a DNP arose from working with underserved and vulnerable populations at Federally Qualified Health Centers,” said Monterrosa. “Pursuing a DNP was the next step to strengthening my leadership abilities, allowing me to have a greater impact on vulnerable communities and future nurses who are also enthusiastic about health equity and vulnerable populations.”
Kasandra Johnson also earned her DNP degree in May and her project, “Preparing Mentors for Effective Mentorship,” examined ways to incorporate mentorship skills and education into more of the classroom curricula. By surveying staff members interested in serving as mentors, Johnson set out to learn what mentorship education students were currently getting, how well it prepared them for mentorship roles, and how that education could be improved and become more effective.
“Existing research shows a clear correlation between mentors' knowledge improvement and the effectiveness of mentorship,” Johnson explained. “The shared interest in mentorship allowed me to focus my project on best practices in preparing those mentors.”
As they enter the next stage of their careers, these nurse leaders are prepared to translate evidence into practice and improve outcomes for patients, communities, and the nursing profession.
