Dissertation
DNP Clinical Leader in Residence: Advancing Competency-Based Training for Nurse Leadership Development
University of Iowa
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), University of Iowa
Spring 2025
Abstract
Background In response to the persistent gap in structured, competency-based orientation and development for emerging nurse leaders, the DNP Clinical Leader in Residence program was developed and piloted at a gerontological center for excellence. Despite national frameworks from AACN and AONL emphasizing the importance of graduate prepared and competency-based leadership training, many nurse leaders continue to rely on on-the-job learning.PurposeThis project aimed to address that disparity by designing, implementing, and evaluating an immersive leadership residency tailored to support Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) students preparing for executive roles in healthcare.MethodsGuided by the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) model, the DNP Clinical Leader in Residence program integrated real-world leadership experiences, mentorship, reflective practice, and competency-based training grounded in the AONL Nurse Leader Core Competencies. Participants engaged in strategic planning, financial management, interdisciplinary collaboration, and community engagement, with a strong emphasis on reflective journaling and mentorship. Data collection included pre- and post-program self-evaluations, stakeholder feedback, and content validation by expert reviewers.FindingsFindings demonstrated significant improvement in leadership competency confidence, particularly in areas of systems thinking, change management, and professional accountability. Stakeholders rated the program highly for its alignment with strategic goals, effectiveness, and value to both the student and the organization. DiscussionThe success of the inaugural DNP Clinical Leader in Residence suggests that structured, experiential programs like the DNP Clinical Leader in Residence can effectively bridge the gap between academic preparation and practice readiness, enhancing both leadership capability and the potential for improved patient and organizational outcomes.
Details
- Title: Subtitle
- DNP Clinical Leader in Residence: Advancing Competency-Based Training for Nurse Leadership Development
- Creators
- Misty D Brooks - University of Iowa
- Contributors
- Harleah Buck (Chair) - University of Iowa
- Resource Type
- Dissertation
- Project Type
- Poster
- Degree Awarded
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), University of Iowa
- Degree in
- Health Systems/Administration
- Date degree season
- Spring 2025
- Publisher
- University of Iowa
- Number of pages
- 1 page
- Copyright
- Copyright 2025 Misty D Brooks
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- College of Nursing; Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects
- Record Identifier
- 9984841038102771
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