VPARE Information for Nurses: FAQs | Vanderbilt Professional Advancement and Recognition of Excellence (VPARE)

REDESIGN - Will there be any compensation changes with the new redesign?

No, compensation will not be changing at this time.

REDESIGN - What will the time frame for the new process look like from start to finish?

The goal is to create a shorter timeframe than the current 12-week process, but more details are still being determined in order to solidify this goal.

Why am I required to obtain certification if I plan to advance to an RN 4 or maintain my current RN 4 level?

National certification enables the nurse to demonstrate specialty expertise in the clinical setting and validate his/her knowledge to employers, patients and families. It also inspires the nurse to practice at the top of his/her license. Standards set forth by accrediting bodies can easily be transferred into practice. VUMC has a house wide goal to increase the number of specialty certified nurses. Certification preparation classes are offered for employees and reimbursement of costs is available to eligible staff.

What is the pay increase if I advance to RN level 3 or level 4?

RN 3 = $3.00/hour above base pay
RN 4 = $7.00/hour above base pay
The maximum pay increase for VPNPP advancement for RN's is $7.00/hour. For example, if you are an RN3 and you advance to RN4 you will receive an additional $4.00/hour above base pay.

What is the pay increase if I advance to LPN level 3 or level 4?

LPN 3 = $1.25/hour above base pay
LPN 4 = $2.50/hour above base pay
The maximum pay increase for VPNPP advancement for LPN's is $2.50/hour. For example, if you are an LPN3 and you advance to LPN4 you will receive an additional $1.25/hour above base pay.

RENEWAL - After you become an RN3, RN4, LPN3, or LPN4 when do you renew?
You renew every two years.
You will renew at the same time as your annual evaluations, typically in July/August.
Nurses who were due to renew in 2023 have been deferred to 2024.

RENEWAL - What is the process to renew?
Nurses renewing use the same rubrics as initial applicants.
Renewing nurses will complete 6 Standards and develop a Professional Story. Link to rubrics on website.

RENEWAL - What can I include in my renewal application?
Because renewals were deferred a year, nurses may use evidence from the past 3 years to renew in 2024. After renewals in 2024, nurses may use evidence from the previous two years.
Nurses may work together on projects or initiatives. A nurse must show their role in the work.
One project or initiative can be used for multiple Standards if it applies to the Standard.

RENEWAL- Will I have a Mentor? What if I need help pulling together my application?
Renewing nurses will not be assigned a mentor or go through the formal mentoring process.
VPARE offers office hours and consults to help renewing nurses review materials and prepare for their submission.
Office Hours are posted on the VPARE website and on the teams page.
Email VPARE@vumc.org if you are not able to attend an office hour.

RENEWAL - Who reviews my application?
The leader or manager doing your performance evaluation will review the evidence submitted for Standards.
Your Professional Story will go to the VPARE Approval Committee for review. Three members of the Committee will review the Professional Story. Stories receiving two or three pass scores will be approved.

RENEWAL– What happens if a nurse advances and then does not continue to perform at the level?
Refer to current policy, number OP 10-10.34 “Vanderbilt Professional Nursing Practice Program (VPNPP) Administrative Practices”
Consult with the area’s Human Resources Business Partner
Reach out to us, VPARE@vumc.org

What if I have further questions that aren't answered here?

Please email:
vpare@vumc.org