Nurs Outlook. 2026 Feb 3;74(2):102689. doi: 10.1016/j.outlook.2026.102689. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of mortality in the United States, with hypertension disproportionately affecting historically disadvantaged groups. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)-prepared nurses can bridge the gap between research and practice, yet structured translational research training remains scarce.
PURPOSE: The Translational Research and Implementation Science for Nurses (TRAIN) program was developed to equip underrepresented minority DNP students with research skills, mentorship, and hands-on experience to advance CVD health equity.
METHODS: TRAIN is a 12-week National Institutes of Health-funded fellowship combining hands-on research (70%) and classroom instruction (30%) under interdisciplinary faculty mentorship. The curriculum includes translational research methods, responsible conduct of research, and CVD health equity science.
DISCUSSION: One-year evaluation showed improved research literacy, confidence, and professional networking. Challenges included recruitment, program buy-in, and short duration.
CONCLUSION: TRAIN is a scalable model for DNP training in cardiovascular translational science, with future expansion planned for other chronic illnesses and mentorship.
PMID:41637831 | DOI:10.1016/j.outlook.2026.102689