David I. Cluff, DNP

David Cluff began his medical career at the University of Utah, where he completed his Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in 2008. He started as a Registered Nurse (RN) in acute medicine at the Veterans Administration (VA) Hospital in Salt Lake City. After a year of service, he transitioned to Emergency Medicine at Intermountain Medical Center, where he obtained certifications in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and the Trauma Nurse Core Course (TNCC).

Following a year in the Level I Trauma Emergency Department, David returned to the Salt Lake VA, taking on a role as an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) float nurse. He primarily worked in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU) and Emergency Department (ED) for the next six years. During this time, he pursued his Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Acute Care Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner at the University of Utah. For his DNP project, he developed and implemented multiple evidence-based practice protocols for the VA, including sepsis and X-ray protocols for the ED.

Beyond his clinical roles, David has worked in infection control and quality improvement as the Sepsis Coordinator for Lakeview Hospital in Bountiful, Utah. While earning his doctorate, he discovered a passion for teaching and began as an adjunct faculty member at Salt Lake Community College. Upon completing his degree, he transitioned to a full-time faculty position and continues to educate future nurses.

David practices medicine with a patient-centered philosophy, believing that quality care extends beyond treatment—it involves listening and ensuring that patients and their families fully understand their health conditions. He strives to foster trust and accountability, aiming not only to address immediate concerns but also to focus on long-term prevention and well-being.

Outside of his professional life, David has been married to his wife, Kenia, for 21 years. They recently celebrated their 20th anniversary in Paris and Marseille, France. Together, they have three children: their eldest, Aymara, is studying psychology at Southern Utah University (SUU), while their two sons, 16 and 14, have distinct interests—the older is passionate about soccer, while the younger is deeply into mountain biking.

David enjoys mountain biking, hiking, board games, and traveling—especially to experience different cuisines. His current favorite cuisine is Thai.

David serves in multiple capacities in local Spanish speaking church group, working with youth
to provide mentorship and with adults to provide welfare/service opportunities.

Bachelors Degree

University of Utah; Salt Lake City, UT - 2008

Doctor of Nursing Degree

University of Utah; Salt Lake City, UT - 2017