Development and Implementation of APRN Competency Validation Tools in Four Nurse-Led Clinics in Rural East Tennessee

Abstract

Background Graduate nursing academic faculty rely heavily on clinical preceptors for mentorship and clinical practicum experiences for BSN-DNP degree-seeking family nurse practitioner (FNP) students. Thus, it is important that preceptors have documented clinical competencies to assure the delivery of quality, evidence-based practice that meets regulatory requirements prior to precepting students. Objectives The objectives of this quality improvement project were to develop and implement APRN competency validation tools (CVTs) in nurse-led clinic settings. Methods Rapid Cycle Quality Improvement (RCQI) strategies were used to develop and implement APRN CVTs. Results Three APRN CVTs were successfully developed, tested, refined, and implemented in four nurse-led clinics in rural east Tennessee. With one exception, the APRN preceptors had documentation of clinical competency prior to approval as a SPADES preceptor. Graduate academic faculty, preceptors, and students reported satisfaction with the SPADES project. Conclusion CVTs are feasible tools for documentation of validated clinical APRN preceptors competency in nurse-led clinics. The CVTs and the medical record review checklist are available upon request from the primary author. Implications for Nursing Use of APRN CVTs provides documentation that the preceptor uses evidence-based practice in the clinic setting prior to precepting students.