In this special “May the Fourth” article, NPD Scope and Standards, 4th edition contributor Pamela S. Dickerson, PhD, RN, NPDA-BC®, FAAN, guides us through a deep dive into Standard 4: Planning. Read on for tips on applying this standard for professional development strategies, measuring program effectiveness, and more.

Whether one loves it, loathes it, or is somewhere in between, pickleball—now the fastest growing sport in America—is everywhere! For Susan L. Bindon, DNP, RN, NPD-BC, CNE, FAAN, pickleball is not just a pastime, but also holds parallels with nursing professional development practice.

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the team at UPMC St. Margaret saw significant turnover rates in new nurses. Learn how they addressed this challenge by developing an innovative approach to nursing professional development that not only empowers NPD practitioners, but also transforms the transition to practice period and nurtures a supportive culture for nurses new to the profession.