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Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): A Guide to McFarlin Library Resources

Step 1: How do you know if you have the right idea?

  • Problems in healthcare are experienced by patients, families, and populations.​ Think about the problem from every angle.​ Get started!  Explore some potential problems that could translate to your project topic​ 
  • Need to be able to identify a problem clearly and support with literature review. 
  • Projects are based on problems or phenomena.​ Is there a problem or phenomenon that you have identified?​  
  • The problem should be a priority to you and the stakeholders.​ How does the problem impact patients (population) and how can your intervention improve outcomes?​ 
  • Brainstorming:  Make a list of your favorite clinical subjects, topics, or diagnoses and explain why you like them.​ 
  • Look at evidence-based practice (EBP) guidelines. Can you mimic any of them? What is the interpretation of the EBP? Is you facility/unit doing it yet?  

For more information follow this link which will take you to the TU Graduate School Lounge. (If you are not able to access the lounge please reach out to faculty so you can be added) 

Brainstorming Ideas

When brainstorming, try making a list of some of your favorite clinical topics and explaining why you like them.

Clinical Subject Why I Like This Subject
Depression Screening Increased suicide rates among teens
Improve Diet and Access to Fresh Foods Underserved populations without access to grocery stores. Interest in food pantry distribution in schools.
Obesity Partner with Spirit Corp. to decrease employee BMI through development of a wellness program.
Diabetes Family history, very relevant to FNP
Readmission Rates, Patient Satisfaction Bonus $$$

Examples of Appropriate DNP Projects

  • Implementation of innovations based on research evidence ​ 
  • Implementation of changes in care delivery models ​ 
  • Implementation of evidence-based practice guidelines ​ 
  • Implementation of existing tools into practice ​ 
  • Development of new knowledge tools:​ 
    • Clinical practice guidelines ​ 
    • Toolkits ​ 
    • Algorithms ​ 
  • Improve processes:​ 
    • Lean Sigma six ​ 
    • Patient Centered Medical Home ​ 
  • Development and/or implementation of healthcare policy ​ 
  • Program development and evaluation ​ 
  • Development of a business plan for new program innovation or existing program improvement. ​ 
  • Implementation of new technologies:​ 
    • Patient portals ​ 
    • Web sites ​ 
    • Cell phone applications ​ 
    • Tele-communications for healthcare delivery ​ 
    • EMR changes, updates or additions​ 
  • Quality improvement projects ​