Integrating Clinical and Systems Reasoning Through a Cross-Track Case in DNP Education
Kimberly ReschkeBackground:
Medication-related harm in older adults often reflects cumulative system vulnerabilities rather than isolated prescribing errors. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs emphasize systems-based practice; however, strategies integrating specialty expertise with shared accountability remain limited.
Method:
A cross-track unfolding case was implemented during a required 2-day DNP immersion at a large academic institution. Advanced practice and systems leadership learners engaged sequential phases of a longitudinal medication-related harm case across out-patient and acute contexts. Evaluation data included Likert-scale ratings and open-ended comments.
Results:
Ninety-seven learners completed the evaluation. Ratings were high for organization (
Conclusion:
A cross-track unfolding case may offer a practical strategy for integrating clinical reasoning and systems accountability in DNP education.