Development and Validation of an Operational Model for Nursing Academic-Practice Partnerships

Abstract

Background: Several definitions and guiding principles for nursing academic-practice partnerships exist. Problem: There remains a gap between academic-practice partnership definitions and practical operational models, thereby limiting schools of nursing ability to engage in productive partnerships. This article describes the development and validation of a novel Operational Model for Nursing Academic-Practice Partnerships. Approach: An email survey of all nursing faculty (n = 228) identified quantity and types of faculty-led academic-practice partnerships. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Qualitative data were analyzed via thematic analysis conducted by 2 members of the project team and validated by the full project team. Outcomes: The Operational Model for Academic-Practice Partnerships was created and is comprised of 8 partnership strategies: innovation, embedded faculty, joint appointment, consultant, independent practice, volunteer, scholarship, and clinical site development. Conclusion: We offer this model as a framework to structure the development, implementation, and evaluation of academic-practice partnerships at nursing schools.