PRIM&R Flash Learn
Flash Learn: Research or QI? Strategies for DNP Projects
February 3, 2026 | 1:00 - 1:30 PM ET
Overview
Compliance professionals are often called upon to help distinguish whether Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) projects fall under the definition of human subjects research requiring IRB oversight or qualify as quality improvement (QI) activities outside the scope of federal regulations. This session will provide strategies for navigating these determinations in collaboration with nursing programs and students.
Presenters will review relevant regulatory definitions, discuss common gray areas, and share tools and institutional approaches for documenting and communicating determinations. Participants will gain insights into building consistent, transparent processes that support both compliance and the educational goals of DNP programs.
Join ## for a 30-minute discussion with examples of DNP projects that are useful for your career.
What Will I Learn?
- Evaluate complex or borderline DNP project scenarios using the Common Rule's regulatory definitions (§46.102) and interpretive guidance to support defensible determinations of research versus quality improvement activity.
- Integrate Common Rule requirements for IRB review, exemption determinations, and institutional engagement into frameworks that streamline DNP project review and oversight.
- Review and discuss institutional decision-making tools and documentation practices that enhance regulatory consistency, transparency, and audit readiness in the classification and management of DNP projects.
CIP® Credit
Participants holding the Certified IRB Professional (CIP®) credential may apply 0.5 continuing education credits towards CIP recertification. Please refer to the CIP® recertification guidelines for additional information.
CE Credit
Participants will receive a certificate of attendance that documents up to 0.5 continuing education credit hour for their attendance at this webinar. Certificates of attendance are useful for obtaining CE credits from professional associations. Each association's guidelines for accepting CE credit hours (in-person or virtual) may differ. Please consult the appropriate association representative for information on if, and how many, CE credits from this PRIM&R webinar may be used.
Cost
Members: $45
Nonmembers: $95