DNP alumna Dr. Michelle Collins and MSN alumnae Shelby Durgin, Cheryl Muffley, and colleagues published an article on virtual acute care nursing in NPD in Motion. This pioneering model uses remote monitoring and other technology to provide nursing support to patients and bedside nurses.
Nurses working virtually help nurses at the bedside by documenting medication histories, educating patients, monitoring lab work, helping with discharge planning, and other tasks. That allows bedside nurses to focus on patient care.
“As both a graduate of Wilmington University and adjunct faculty member, Dr. Michelle Collins truly exemplifies nursing excellence through her commitment to advancing health care practice, mentoring the next generation of nurses, and implementing innovative approaches to care,” says Dr. Kathryn Leach, chair, Doctor of Nursing Practice Program. “In addition, Dr. Collins implemented a groundbreaking Virtual Acute Care Nursing model, an innovative approach focused on improving patient outcomes and empowering nurses to practice at the highest level of their expertise.”
The model has been embraced by several healthcare systems, including ChristinaCare, where Dr. Collins is vice president of Nursing Professional Excellence. Her work in virtual care nursing played a key role in her induction as a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing (FAAN), the highest honor in nursing.