Congratulations to Kevin Bryant, DNP, BSN, on his graduation from the University of Kentucky (UK) College of Nursing (CON) with his Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Dr. Bryant’s project, “The Impact of an Educational Training to Front-line Nurses and Providers to Reduce Seclusion and Restraint: Assessing Knowledge, Practices, and Attitudes” explores effect of web-based educational intervention on front-line nurses knowledge, practices, and attitudes concerning use of seclusion and restraint of patients within psychiatric in-patient facilities. Dr. Bryant is Director of Inpatient Services at Eastern State Hospital (ESH).
Dr. Bryant traces his passion for nursing back to his experience working with residents at a nursing home in his senior year of high school. This early clinical exposure ignited his confidence to pursue UK’s College of Nursing program where he completed his BSN in 2011. Bryant began his career with ESH in 2012 as a clinical nurse and served as interim nurse manager beginning in 2014.
Bryant had the desire to continue his education and enrolled into UK’s DNP program in 2020. Flourishing under the mentorship of Dr. Woods, Bryant notes, “Dr. Woods was always very supportive and proud of us and always provided opportunities.”
Dr. Marc Woods, Chief Nursing Officer for UK Healthcare, shares, "Dr. Kevin Bryant's leadership journey reflects a strong commitment to bolstering the future of academic and clinical behavioral health nurses. His efforts in patient and staff safety are paving the way for robust and resilient care practices within the inpatient setting."
In addition to Dr. Woods’ support, Bryant credits the Work Learning Program (WLP) and his cohort for nurturing his success by providing resources and a supportive environment. Bryant states, “The Work Learning Program provided us great support, from helping with presentations and offering a relaxing study space with snacks to Dr. Okoli’s mentorship on writing literature reviews. In general, the WLP leadership’s support at ESH made it a whole lot easier for my cohort and I to successfully complete this program.”
As Dr. Bryant reflects on his DNP graduation, he emphasizes the importance of a strong support system outside of work and the WLP as well. “Outside of my cohort's support, I have a really great support system from my family- with my parents, my brothers, and my nieces that I love to hang out with. So, I am very grateful and appreciative of that” Dr. Bryant proudly states.
Congratulations, Dr. Bryant!