Evaluation of a Tri-state Nurse Anesthesia Program for Diverse and Underserved Populations

Project evaluation is based on the achievement of yearly goals and sub-objectives. The evaluation of project objectives is based on input from all TNAP faculty, advisory board members, staff and students. The project uses the CIPP model (context, input, process, and product) to assess, develop, implement, and evaluate the curriculum and project for the graduate-nursing curriculum. Development of a comprehensive evaluation plan involved identifying and defining major objectives of the evaluation, identifying critical questions to be addressed, specifying key indicators, delineating the evaluation methodologies to be employed, and developing and testing measurement scales to be used in various stages of the program. The evaluation program measures quantitative and qualitative data being collected, analyzed, and interpreted at frequent intervals. Formative and summative evaluations are done to obtain information about program strengths and needs. Results of evaluation are disseminated to program planners, administrators, and faculty to be used in the revision and strengthening of the program as indicated. Revisions and modifications in the plan are necessary as the TNAP program grows. Evaluation indicators are: pass/not pass CRNA exam and report of state licensure and certification as CRNA, place of employment, project director & coordinator obtain summative and formative evaluations, HRSA reports, VARKs, TSET scores, 100% employment as CRNA, increased number of TNAP CRNA graduates who are certified, licensed & employed in NJ, DE, and PA, and an increased number of CRNAs in underserved areas. Improvement in access to a diverse and culturally competent and sensitive health professions workforce and improvement in access to quality health care through appropriately prepared CRNAs who serve underserved areas of NJ, DE, and PA is the ultimate outcome of this project.