Shepherd University Nursing Students Address Healthcare Challenges Through Research Showcase

ISSUED: 17 April 2026
MEDIA CONTACT: Hans Fogle

SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV - Shepherd University's School of Nursing is helping strengthen the healthcare workforce through applied research and clinical innovation, highlighted during its annual Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Quality Improvement Projects and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Poster Presentations held Tuesday, April 14 in the University's Erma Ora Byrd Hall auditorium.

The event showcased student-led, evidence-based projects focused on improving patient care, clinical outcomes, and healthcare delivery systems. Many addressed challenges facing rural and regional providers, including access to care, provider communication, mental health treatment, and workforce sustainability. 

Opening the program, Dr. Richard Thompson, dean of Shepherd University's College of STEM and Nursing, emphasized the importance of preparing nurses to meet the evolving needs of healthcare systems across the region.

"These projects demonstrate how our students are directly contributing to solutions that matter to healthcare providers today," Thompson said. "From improving clinical protocols to addressing workforce challenges, this work reflects the kind of outcomes-focused training that will strengthen healthcare in our region."

DNP students highlighted quality improvement initiatives across a range of clinical settings in the projects they shared with the audience.

Several students focused on expanding access to care in underserved populations. One evaluation examined a mobile behavioral health treatment program in rural Maryland, demonstrating increased patient engagement and improved access to mental health services.

Other projects addressed provider well-being and workforce sustainability. Research included mindfulness-based interventions and micro-meditation strategies to reduce burnout and support resilience among nurse practitioners in high-stress clinical environments. 

Additional projects included:

• implementing strategies to reduce physical restraint use in intubated patients in intensive care units
  
• developing a first-time seizure care pathway to improve provider confidence and patient outcomes in pediatric settings
  
• introducing palliative care screening protocols to support earlier intervention and more coordinated care
  
• promoting appropriate antibiotic use to reduce unnecessary prescribing among pediatric patients

BSN seniors shared their research with posters throughout the program, examining topics such as interprofessional collaboration, nurse-patient relationships, ethical decision-making, and emerging technologies, like artificial intelligence.

Dr. Mary Hancock, director of Shepherd University's School of Nursing, noted the significance of the students' work and its broader impact on the healthcare field.

"We are incredibly proud of our students and the level of scholarship they bring to their work," Hancock said. "These projects reflect the strength of our program and our commitment to preparing highly educated, practice-ready nurses. Shepherd nursing graduates are ready to step into the workforce and make an immediate impact in patient care and community health."

The program concluded with recognition of DNP and BSN graduates, many of whom will go on to serve in hospitals and clinics throughout West Virginia and the surrounding region. 

For more information about Shepherd University's School of Nursing, visit https://www.shepherd.edu/nursing.

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