Program of Studies

Term I

ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY: SC 101 (54 hours)

This course provides the student with an understanding of biological science concentrating on the normal structure and function of the human body.  Microbiology concepts necessary to understand microorganisms, pathogens and infection control are integrated.  Chemistry of the human body is also integrated with a focus on chemical and physical changes, acid-base balance, and fluid and electrolyte balance.  The course allows the student to develop an appreciation of the complexity of the structure and functioning of the human body.

FUNDAMENTALS OF NURSING: NU 100 (299 hours)

This course provides the theoretical knowledge for nursing practice and the development of basic nursing skills that progresses from simple to complex and serves as the foundation for subsequent nursing courses.  The concepts of professionalism, communication, evidence-based practice, and safety serve as the framework.  Students are introduced to the principles of teaching, application of technology, and the role of the practical nurse as a member of the multidisciplinary healthcare team.  Beginning use of nursing process and legal/ethical concepts are introduced. Lab and clinical practice are components of this foundational course.

GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT: HU 101 (45 hours)

This course is designed to identify the psychosocial, physical, and behavioral stages in normal human growth and development throughout the life span.  Incorporating theories of growth and development, the student will explore factors affecting healthy growth and development including physical, mental, emotional, and behavioral factors.  Common mental illnesses of each developmental stage are explored from a nursing process perspective with consideration of the factors which contribute to physical, emotional, and behavioral problems.  The influence of family, environment and culture is integrated. 

PHARMACOLOGY I: PH 101 (21 hours, Math integrated)

The focus of this course is to establish the ability for students to provide safe medication administration, beginning with the general principles of drugs and their actions.  Each of the drug classifications and the common characteristics of each are explored.  The utilization of the nursing process is incorporated to provide safety and continual assessment of the patient.  Dosage calculations necessary in drug administration are taught.  The moral, legal and ethical responsibilities of the nurse in medication administration are included.

NUTRITION: SC 102 (22 hours)

This course provides a basic introduction to the relationship between nutrition and normal body function and lays the foundation for understanding the role of diet and diet therapy as a therapeutic treatment.  The focus is on the principles of optimal nutrition across the lifespan including recognition of macronutrients, micronutrients, non-nutritive substances and common dietary sources of each.  The physiologic process of digestion is included.  Culture as it influences dietary choices and nutrition is explored. Factors affecting optimal nutrition including disease, deficiency, and life style choices are included.  At the completion of this course the student is prepared to progress to the planning of therapeutic diets in Term II.

 

Term II

MEDICAL/SURGICAL NURSING: NU 200 (442 hours)

This course is designed to prepare the student to deliver patient-centered care to meet the needs of adult and pediatric patients and families along the continuum of care.  The student will communicate effectively and use technology as a member of the health care team in acute and rehabilitation settings. The pathophysiology of common diseases and disorders is presented based on body system and includes the effects that injury and/or disability have on growth and development and human flourishing.  The psychosocial aspects of illness are included with emphasis on preventative care and rehabilitation.  The student will employ critical thinking, evidence-based practice and the nursing process in collaboration with the health care team to maintain the patient’s optimal level of functioning. The student will function as a patient advocate and provide effective client teaching while adhering to legal and ethical guidelines. Principals of diet therapy are integrated.

 

PHARMACOLOGY II: PH 201 (29 hours)

This course covers the use of specific drugs to treat disorders of the various body systems.  The student is expected to build upon their knowledge of dosage calculations and classifications of drugs, including the purpose, action, adverse effects, and contraindications of drugs within the classifications. In addition, students are expected to apply the nursing process in caring for patients receiving drug therapy.  Emphasis is placed on assessment and evaluation of effects of drugs as well as patient teaching.  The acquisition of knowledge related to commonly prescribed medications is encouraged.

 

Term III

FAMILY CENTERED NURSING: NU 300 (231 hours)

Family Centered Nursing is a lifespan course which focuses on the care of specialized populations, incorporating the concepts of management and supervision in preparing the student to care for these patients and their families. Nursing care of the older adult population in the community and in the long-term care setting is a focus.  Care of adult and pediatric patients in various settings is integrated. For the maternal-newborn population, the focus is upon normal maternal and newborn care, teaching and supporting the family unit, and application of safety principles.  The ethical considerations when caring for each population are incorporated.  The role and responsibility of the practical nurse in collaboration with the multidisciplinary healthcare team is emphasized along with team building, clinical decision making, and leadership concepts.