2024 Nursing Annual Report

Innovations in Nuring

Take the Next Step: Advancing With the Nursing Professional Achievement Program

The objective of the Nursing Professional Achievement Program (NPAP) at Children’s of Alabama (COA) is to acknowledge the exceptional contributions of nurses who go beyond their core responsibilities to advance the profession. The program focuses on performance-based clinical achievements and has evolved to include four distinct tracks: Registered nurse, charge nurse/coordinator, nurse educator, nurse practitioner. The nurse-driven program welcomes new criteria submissions yearly for committee review and approval. Since inception, the NPAP committee has consisted of representation from each track. Within the four tracks, there are four levels. As the level increases, so do the requirements and incentives. Participants demonstrate their professional growth and commitment by submitting a comprehensive portfolio

showcasing their achievements across six key domains: continuing education, leadership, education (provided by the applicant), quality improvement, practice and research, and community service. Additionally, retention is recognized throughout the program. Nurses and nurse practitioners who successfully fulfill the program’s rigorous criteria are recognized with a discretionary bonus, a distinguished lapel pin, and an honorary celebration during Nurse Appreciation Week in May. The program at COA not only highlights individual excellence but also fosters a culture of lifelong learning, leadership, and innovation in nursing practice. The program affects participants in many positive aspects including enhanced knowledge of their specialty, recognition for their effort, increased opportunities for leadership, possible career advancement and a financial incentive. The NPAP benefits not only staff who participate but also our institution and ultimately the patients and families we serve.