5 Steps of Project Development Using an Evidence-Based Process

Step 1: Formulate a Relevant and Answerable Clinical Question

The first step is to form a question that will guide your literature search. Start by describing an innovation or clinical issue that can function as a problem to solve. To help you establish a searchable concept, consider the following

The patient, population, or problem – consider the unique characteristics of the patient or subject.

The intervention, prognosis, or exposure in consideration. What do you hope to do for the patient?
What comparison of alternatives do you have for the intervention?
Outcome – what can you accomplish, measure, or improve? What are you trying to do for the patient?

If you don’t frame the question correctly, you will experience challenges in implementing evidence-based practice by translating evidence.

Step 2: Review of Literature Sources to Find the Best Evidence-Based Resources

An assessment of past works will enable you to use the best evidence from the literature to answer the question you formed.

Step 3: Evaluate the Validity and Relevance of Your Sources

Using reliable methods and tools, collect data to use as evidence.

Step 4: Translate the Evidence

Identify the results you will measure after implementation.

Step 5: Analyze Results and Implement Outcomes

Review the application and effectiveness of the process. You may also pinpoint areas that need improvement.

Essential Questions to Ask

To ensure you meet the objectives of your DNP project, you will have to ask specific questions. In so doing, you will know whether your project meets the expected standards.

Who is the focus of your project? Is it individuals, communities, systems, or populations?
What problems will your project address?
Is the basis of your project in clinical practice? Will it provide a solution to the problem?
Does your project showcase a good grasp of DNP competencies acquired through your doctoral education?
Have you substantiated your project with evidence from existing literature?
Does your project answer any concerns about the outcomes relating to patients and healthcare?
Does your project provide a basis for future nursing scholarships?

DNP Capstone Project Guidelines

The American Association of Colleges of Nursing has various guidelines that a DNP project should integrate. You should be able to put some or all of them into practice.

Direct your attention towards changes that directly or indirectly impact healthcare outcomes.
Have a system, population, or aggregate on which you can focus.
Implement a suitable clinical practice
Incorporate a sustainability plan such as financial or political realities.
Include an assessment of the processes and outcomes.