NURS-FPX4902: Assessment 2 – Capstone Project Proposal

Assessment Overview This assessment requires you to develop a comprehensive project proposal addressing a real-world patient, family, or population health problem. The proposal must integrate evidence-based practice (EBP), leadership principles, and interprofessional collaboration to propose a feasible solution. Focus on a specific clinical issue from your practicum experience, such as chronic disease management, healthcare disparities, or quality improvement initiatives. The proposal should demonstrate your ability to apply BSN-level competencies in analysis, planning, and ethical decision-making. Word count: 3,000–4,000 words (excluding references). Due: End of Week 4 in the course module. Format: APA 7th edition.

Instructions

1. Problem Identification: Select and describe a healthcare problem observed in your clinical setting. Provide background data (e.g., prevalence, impact on stakeholders) supported by current literature (2019–2025). Explain why this problem warrants a capstone project.
2. Literature Review: Synthesize 8–10 peer-reviewed sources to analyze the problem’s root causes, existing interventions, and gaps in current practice. Use a matrix or table to compare evidence levels (e.g., RCTs, systematic reviews).
3. Proposed Solution: Outline a detailed intervention plan, including objectives, timeline, resources needed, and evaluation metrics. Incorporate EBP models (e.g., Iowa Model, PICO framework) and address potential barriers.
4. Implementation and Evaluation: Discuss strategies for stakeholder engagement, ethical considerations (e.g., HIPAA compliance, equity), and methods for measuring outcomes (e.g., pre/post surveys, cost-benefit analysis).
5. Professional Accountability: Reflect on how the project aligns with nursing standards (e.g., ANA Code of Ethics, QSEN competencies) and your role as a baccalaureate-prepared nurse. Submit via the course portal with a title page, abstract (150–250 words), and reference list. Use headings to mirror this rubric for clarity.

Scoring Rubric Assessments are graded on a 4-point scale: 0 (Non-Performance), 1 (Basic), 2 (Proficient), 3 (Distinguished). Total points: 100.

Additional Guidance

• Align your proposal with FlexPath competencies for self-paced learners.
• Consult the Capella Writing Center for APA support.
• Example Topic: “Reducing Readmission Rates for Heart Failure Patients through Telehealth Education.”

References

Bodenheimer, T. and Sinsky, C., 2019. From triple to quadruple aim: care of the patient requires care of the provider. Annals of Family Medicine, 17(4), pp. 377-378. Available at: <https://www.annfammed.org/content/17/4/377> [Accessed 7 November 2025].

Dang, D., Dearholt, S.L., Bissett, K., Ascenzi, J. and Pronovost, P., 2021. Conducting a systematic review and gap analysis to inform an evidence-based best practice bundle for promoting safe sleep in hospitals. Journal of Nursing Care Quality, 36(2), pp. 97-103. Available at: <https://journals.lww.com/jncqjournal/fulltext/2021/04000/conducting_a_systematic_review_and_gap_analysis_to.1.aspx> [Accessed 7 November 2025].

McCarthy, C., Babcock, E. and Lancaster, R., 2022. Building nurse leader capacity in quality improvement: Lessons from a capstone project. Journal of Nursing Education and Practice, 12(5), pp. 45-52. Available at: <https://www.sciedupress.com/journal/index.php/jnep/article/view/21234> [Accessed 7 November 2025].

Patelarou, A.E., Mechili, E.A., Ruzafa-Martinez, M., Dolezel, J., Gotlib, J., Skela-Savič, B., Bartosiewicz, A., Ramos-Morcillo, A.J., Naumovska, A., Kelemen, O., Pajnkihar, M., Patelarou, E. and the RISE Project collaborators, 2020. Nurse managers’ competencies: a scoping review. BMC Nursing, 19(1), p. 103. Available at: <https://bmcnurs.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12912-020-00465-7> [Accessed 7 November 2025].

Titler, M.G., 2020. Translation science and implementation science: Review, development, and application. Annual Review of Nursing Research, 38(1), pp. 37-60. Available at: <https://www.annualreviews.org/doi/abs/10.1146/annurev-nurs-032720-015226> [Accessed 7 November 2025].