How to Structure a DNP Nursing Capstone Project Report

A well-structured DNP Nursing Capstone Project Report clearly communicates the project’s objectives, methodology, results, and conclusions. The report should be detailed, organized, and grounded in evidence-based practice. Here’s a guide on how to structure the report effectively:

1.1 Title Page

The title page should include the title of your capstone project, your name, degree (DNP), institution, advisor’s name, and submission date. The title should be concise and reflective of the project focus.

1.2 Abstract

The abstract provides a brief summary of the project, including the background, objectives, methodology, key results, and conclusions. It should be no more than 300 words, offering a snapshot of your work for readers.

1.3 Introduction

The introduction should set the stage for your project by explaining the problem or healthcare gap that your capstone addresses. It should include:

Background information on the healthcare issue.
Project objectives: What were you trying to achieve, and why is it important?
Theoretical framework: Reference relevant theories or models that guided your project.
Significance of the project in the broader context of healthcare improvement.

1.4 Problem Statement

Clearly define the problem or challenge you aimed to address. Provide data or statistics that demonstrate the severity or prevalence of the issue. This section helps contextualize your project and highlights the need for intervention.

1.5 Literature Review

Review the existing literature to support the need for your project and identify gaps in current knowledge or practice. This section should discuss:

Previous research or interventions.
Best practices or evidence-based strategies that informed your project.
Theories or models relevant to the solution.

1.6 Methodology

Describe the methods used to implement the project:

Design: Is it a quality improvement initiative, policy development, or clinical practice guideline implementation?
Participants: Who were the stakeholders or subjects involved, and how were they selected?
Intervention: What specific action was taken? Include detailed steps for replication.
Data collection: Describe how data was collected, the tools used, and any instruments for measurement.

1.7 Results

Present the findings from the implementation. This should include:

Data collected (e.g., patient outcomes, process improvements).
Tables, charts, or graphs to visualize the results.
Statistical analysis or other methods of interpreting data.

1.8 Discussion

Interpret the results and discuss their implications. Address:

Whether the project met the original objectives.
Any unexpected outcomes and possible reasons.
How the results align with previous research or existing best practices.
Challenges faced during implementation.

1.9 Conclusions

Summarize the project outcomes, reflecting on the effectiveness of the intervention. Discuss its impact on patient care, nursing practice, or healthcare delivery.

1.10 Recommendations

Offer actionable recommendations based on your findings. These might include suggestions for future practice, policy changes, or areas for further research.

1.11 References

Include all sources cited in your report, formatted according to a standard style like APA.

1.12 Appendices

Add supplementary materials such as surveys, interview guides, or detailed data sets that support your findings.