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The use of therapy or service dogs to assist children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is increasing in clinical settings. Research studies indicate that children with ASD display enhanced prosocial behavior and emotional regulation when canines are included in therapy. Despite increased application of animal-assisted therapy in clinical and inpatient settings, healthcare providers show limited understanding of best practices for its use and require a research-based approach to incorporate animals effectively into therapeutic plans of care for pediatric patients with ASD. The use of therapy dogs to assist children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is increasing in clinical settings. Research studies indicate that children with ASD display enhanced prosocial behavior and emotional regulation when canines are included in therapy. Despite increased application of animal-assisted therapy in clinical settings, providers show limited understanding of best practices for its use and require a research-based approach to incorporate animals effectively into therapeutic plans of care for pediatric patients with ASD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project is the culmination of DNP education, serving as evidence of knowledge preparation and skill achievement in translating evidence into practice. Problem: Review of sample DNP projects from 2015 to 2019 revealed that multiple projects had fatal flaws in the Methods and Evaluation sections, rendering the resulting DNP project with diminished value. Approach: We established a collaborative relationship with an educational statistics program and associated consulting center to develop and integrate statistical resources directly into the planning and evaluating stages of the DNP project process. The pilot program included workshops and individual consulting sessions provided to the student aimed at reducing fatal flaws and improving research design and evaluation analyses. Outcomes: Initial and follow-up surveys were adapted from the Course Experience Questionnaire to assess student satisfaction and perceived knowledge gains. Project rigor and value were assessed using the DNP-Project Critical Appraisal Tool (PCAT). Conclusions: The pilot program showed a decrease in the number of fatal flaws and an increase in PCAT scores on the targeted Design and Evaluation sections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]