Jennifer Carter, DNP, RN, CNML
Dr. Jennifer Ann Carter, DNP, RN, CNML, is a seasoned nurse leader with more than 27 years of experience in the healthcare industry. She currently serves as the Nurse Manager of Ambulatory Clinics at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Davie Medical Center in North Carolina, where she oversees clinical operations and supports high-quality patient care across multiple outpatient services. Throughout her career, Dr. Carter has developed extensive clinical expertise in emergency nursing, post-anesthesia care (PACU), cardiology, and orthopedic specialties, building a reputation for strong leadership, clinical excellence, and a deep commitment to patient-centered care.
Dr. Carter’s professional journey reflects a dedication to lifelong learning and advancement within the nursing profession. She began her career as an LPN before earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Gardner-Webb University, later completing a Master’s degree in Nursing Executive Leadership from Purdue Global. In 2025, she achieved her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from Wake Forest University School of Medicine. She also holds the Certified Nurse Manager and Leader (CNML) credential and is a certified Trauma-Informed Care Specialist, further strengthening her expertise in both leadership and compassionate, patient-centered practice.
Passionate about improving healthcare systems and nursing education, Dr. Carter actively advocates for the integration of trauma-informed care principles into nursing training programs across North Carolina. Her doctoral work focuses on implementing trauma-informed care education within nursing school curricula, helping future nurses better understand and support patients affected by trauma. As an engaged member of professional organizations such as the North Carolina Nurses Association, AONL, and Sigma Theta Tau, Dr. Carter remains committed to mentoring future nurse leaders, strengthening the nursing workforce, and advancing practices that promote both patient safety and nurse well-being.
• Gardner-Webb University - BSN
• Purdue Global - Master's
• Wake Forest University School of Medicine - DNP
• CNML (Certified Nurse Manager Leadership)
• Certified Trauma-Informed Care Specialist
• AONL
• North Carolina Nurses Association
• Sigma Theta Tau
Areas of Specialization/Expertise
- Emergency Department
- PACU
- Cardiology
- Multi-specialty
- Ambulatory Clinics
- Trauma-Informed Care
What do you enjoy most about practicing medicine?
What I enjoy most about nursing has evolved throughout my career. Of course, it started out with taking care of people and patients. Now it is growing other nurses and other nurse leaders, and bettering the profession for the safest outcomes for patients and the well-being of nurses. That includes highlighting resiliency, well-being, and retention. It's about making sure we're supporting our nurses while ensuring the best care for our patients.