For my DNP project, which focuses on improving pre-discharge self-management education for hospitalized patients with diabetes to reduce 30-day readmissions, I have selected the Iowa Model of Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) as the guiding translational framework.
The Iowa Model provides a structured, stepwise approach to implementing evidence into practice. Its components include (1) identifying problem- or knowledge-focused triggers, (2) determining priority for the organization, (3) forming a team, (4) assembling and critiquing the evidence, (5) piloting the practice change, (6) evaluating outcomes, and (7) sustaining the change if beneficial (Moran et al., 2024). This model emphasizes both the quality of evidence and the collaborative, iterative nature of implementation.
The Iowa Model is highly applicable to my project for several reasons. First, it is structured and easy to apply across clinical settings, making it appropriate for the MICU, where patients admitted for diabetes-related emergencies are at increased risk of readmission. Second, the model emphasizes guiding change from planning through evaluation, ensuring that the educational intervention is piloted, outcomes are measured, and sustainability is addressed (Bradshaw & Vitale, 2021). Third, it is a generalizable framework, used in diverse practice settings from hemodialysis to oncology, which supports its adaptability to diabetes care transitions (Henson & Jeffrey, 2024; Chays-Amania et al., 2025).
The Iowa Model has been shown to improve patient care. It can vary across different settings. For example, Henson and Jeffrey (2024) applied the Iowa Model Revised in a hemodialysis setting, demonstrating how its structured process supported the development of interventions. Chays-Amania et al. (2025) similarly highlighted that evidence-based practice models, including the Iowa model, align well with implementation strategies and contribute to better patient outcomes. When systematically applied, structured models like Iowa help nurse managers and practitioners overcome challenges in implementing EBP interventions, as noted by Chiwaula and Jere (2022).
Overall, the Iowa Model offers the structured, evidence-based pathway my DNP project requires to translate research into practice. Its emphasis on identifying triggers, synthesizing evidence, piloting interventions, and sustaining changes aligns directly with the needs of reducing readmissions through standardized diabetes education. By situating my project within this model, I can ensure rigor, relevance, and the potential for meaningful impact on patient outcomes.
INSTRUCTIONS:
Provide constructive feedback or ask a thoughtful question about how the model or theory they selected might support or challenge implementation in a different clinical setting.
You may suggest an alternative model or highlight the strengths of their selected framework in your own experience.
USE TWO INTERNAL SOURCES and provide two external sources.
Bonnel, W., & Smith, K. V. (2021). Proposal writing for clinical nursing and DNP projects (3rd ed.). Springer Publishing Company. https://www.springerpub.com/proposal-writing-for-clinical-nursing-and-dnp-projects-9780826148940.html?srsltid=AfmBOoocphHtshgVkyWajclL2NqYVbBdgqAttr16cgFZKZu-auD6GEJY
Moran, K. (2023). The doctor of nursing practice project: A framework for success (4th ed.). Jones & Bartlett Learning. https://books.google.co.ke/books?hl=en&lr=&id=0f-pEAAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PP1&dq=Moran,+K.+(2023).+The+doctor+of+nursing+practice+project:+A+framework+for+success+(4th+ed.).+Jones+%26+Bartlett+Learning.&ots=bfHItqRbwQ&sig=ttp2akueMclag7FtJJF3BS2RgyI&redir_esc=y#v=onepage&q=Moran%2C%20K.%20(2023).%20The%20doctor%20of%20nursing%20practice%20project%3A%20A%20framework%20for%20success%20(4th%20ed.).%20Jones%20%26%20Bartlett%20Learning.&f=false
The post Week 5 Discussion 1: Selecting a Translational or Nursing Change Model for Your DNP Project first appeared on Ehomeworker.