Faculty Research: Angela McNelis

Angela M. McNelis headshot

Angela McNelis

Ph.D., RN, FAAN, ANEF, CNE

Associate Dean for Scholarship, Innovation, and Clinical Science

Professor (Tenured)

What research are you working on now?

We are testing the effects of using screen-based virtual simulation on developing Family Nurse Practitioner student mastery of concepts in the domains of assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and evaluation, and across the populations of pediatrics, adults, and geriatrics. The study evaluates the use of 70 hours of screen-based virtual clinical simulation experiences compared to 70 hours of traditional precepted clinical experiences.

Why is this work important?

The significant and shrinking availability of quality clinical sites for FNP training is problematic as schools of nursing rely on traditional precepted clinical experiences to fulfill required training hours. We are at a critical point where development and testing alternative methods to the traditional clinical educational approach must occur as demands for primary care providers soar.

What are the potential policy implications of your work?

Generating evidence for innovative clinical models is necessary for regulating bodies and schools of nursing as they make decisions about educating the next generation of FNPs.

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