DNP graduates must be competent in searching, wielding, and developing evidence-based practice (AACN, 2006) to ensure the highest standards of care for patients and communities. This includes skill across the analytical spectrum, from appraising literature to designing new processes, developing databases for accurate and timely data collection and analysis, correctly analyzing and interpreting findings, and application of data to ongoing quality improvement and program evaluation (AACN, 2006). Not only does the advanced-practice nurse show skill in generating and using data, but also in the timely sharing of newly developed data-informed best practices to ensure optimal outcomes at all nursing care levels. 

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My DNP project required me to collect and think about data in new and innovative ways  in order to answer the question, "how many estimated cases of vaccine-preventable disease did public health nurses in Wyoming avert by administering vaccines during the years 2016, 2017, and 2018, and what were the cost savings related to preventing these cases?" This question was answered through gathering existing data about disease rates in Wyoming both pre-vaccine and after; comparison of the number of vaccinations against each disease given by Wyoming PHNs vs all other providers in the state; application of the proportion of vaccine given by PHN to the difference between expected and observed cases, and application of cost-per-case data obtained from literature review. All of the data collected and analyzed through this epidemiological, economic, and nursing query were managed through the use of excel databases. 

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American Academy of Colleges of Nursing (2006). The essentials of doctoral education for advanced nursing practice. Retrieved from https://www.aacnnursing.org/Portals/42/Publications/DNPEssentials.pdf