Date of Conferral

2-11-2026

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Nursing

Advisor

Sue Bell

Abstract

Interdisciplinary rounding is essential for effective communication, coordinated care, and patient‑centered decision‑making; however, baseline observational audits on pediatric inpatient units at a large northeastern hospital revealed that nurses were present for only 54% of rounding opportunities, with no formal accountability process. This Doctor of Nursing Practice project aimed to improve registered nurse (RN) engagement and accountability in interdisciplinary rounds through a structured staff education intervention paired with a QR code–based tracking process. The practice‑focused question examined whether educating nursing staff on a QR code rounding system would increase nurses’ knowledge of rounding expectations and positively influence accountability behaviors. Fourteen RNs participated in a pre/post educational program that included instruction on rounding expectations, simulation of QR code use, and case‑based discussions. Outcomes were evaluated through pre/post knowledge assessments and weekly auditing of rounding participation. Pre‑education knowledge scores averaged 74%, increasing to 95% post‑education, with an 80.2% normalized learning gain. Rounding compliance rose steadily, reaching over 90% within two months of implementation. These results demonstrated significant improvement in nurse knowledge, engagement, and accountability related to interdisciplinary rounds. The project strengthened real‑time communication, enhanced role clarity, and increased consistency in nurse involvement during daily rounds. While provider variability in rounding schedules posed implementation challenges, the intervention remained feasible, low‑cost, and well‑integrated into existing workflows. Broader implications include scalability of technology‑supported education to promote equitable care delivery, interdisciplinary collaboration, and improved team communication across clinical settings. This project contributes to positive social change by standardizing processes that elevate nursing visibility, reinforce professional accountability, and support high‑quality, patient‑centered care.

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