Standardizing Nursing Professional Development Roles Using the 2016 NPD Practice Model

Abstract

In 2017, expansion across a large Midwestern health system prompted a review of Nursing Professional Development Practitioner (NPDP) roles. A system-wide analysis revealed inconsistent role expectations, responsibilities, and alignment with professional standards. The organization restructured its NPDP positions using the 2016 NPD Practice Model and the Scope and Standards of NPD Practice. Following implementation, NPDP certification rates increased, orientation length decreased, and onboarding costs declined. This project demonstrates how aligning roles with frameworks standardizes practice.