Document Type
DNP Project
Publication Date
4-27-2025
Degree Name
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Faculty Advisor
Dr. Rosemary Johnson, DNP, APRN-BC –
Practice Mentor
Dr. Chrystyne Olivieri, DNP, FNP-BC, CDCES
Abstract
Background: Dermatologic education in Nurse Practitioner (NP) programs often lacks adequate representation of skin conditions in patients with darker skin tones, contributing to diagnostic disparities and delayed treatment. This quality improvement (QI) project aimed to integrate culturally competent dermatologic content into the Primary Care I course at Sacred Heart University to enhance diagnostic accuracy and student confidence.
Purpose: The primary goals were to improve NP students’ knowledge and confidence in diagnosing dermatologic conditions across diverse skin tones and to evaluate the effectiveness of an educational intervention using pre- and post-intervention assessments.
Methods: The project utilized the Six Sigma DMAIC framework. A 30-minute in-person presentation, dermatologic quiz, and confidence survey were delivered to two cohorts of NP students (2024 and 2025). The intervention included high-quality images, case studies, and resources focused on diverse dermatologic presentations. Surveys and quizzes were distributed via SurveyMonkey, and participation was encouraged through repeated communication and reminders.
Results: Out of 34 students, 21 completed both the quiz and survey. The 2025 cohort demonstrated higher confidence and preparedness scores, with quiz averages at 85% compared to 81% in 2024. High-quality images and case studies were reported as most helpful. Students recommended incorporating simulation labs and interactive case reviews to further enhance learning.
Conclusions: The intervention improved student confidence and preparedness in diagnosing dermatologic conditions in diverse populations. Despite minor barriers such as timing and survey response rates, the project highlighted the importance of inclusive educational practices in NP programs. Ongoing feedback, faculty collaboration, and curricular integration are essential for sustainability and future success.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-Share Alike 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Schiavone, S. (2025). Enhancing dermatologic education in a family nurse practitioner program: A quality improvement project that promotes skin assessment competency in diverse populations [Unpublished DNP project]. Sacred Heart University. https://digitalcommons.sacredheart.edu/dnp_projects/94
Comments
A DNP project submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Nursing Practice, Sacred Heart University Davis & Henley College of Nursing.