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NURS 340

NURS 340: Health Assessment Throughout The Lifespan

Prerequisites: Upper Division standing

Credit Hours: (3) credits:  (2) hours lecture, (1) hour laboratory.

Course Description:

Focuses on the use of health assessment skills required to perform a systematic health assessment.


Detailed Description of Content of the Course

The objectives and content of this Level 1 course facilitate achievement of the College’s program outcomes as well as the Essentials of Baccalaureate Education (AACN). Additionally, the major topics and skills covered in this course represent content covered on standardized achievement examinations and the NCLEX-RN test plan. Current research, advanced nursing theory, and evidence based clinical practice guide content development and course design. 
 
Topical Outline: 

  1. National Health Priorities 
  2. Holistic Health Assessment 
  3. Growth Measurement and Recording Information 
  4. Nutritional Assessment  
  5. Examination Techniques and Equipment 
  6. Assessment and Recording of Vital Signs 
  7. Skin, Hair, and Nails 
  8. Eyes, Ears 
  9. Nose, Throat, and Pharynx 
  10. Lymphatic System and Peripheral Vasculature 
  11. Lungs and Thorax 
  12. Heart and Neck Vessels 
  13. Abdomen/Pregnant Females/Domestic Violence Assessment  
  14. Breast and Axillae 
  15. Musculoskeletal Assessment 
  16. Neurological Assessment and Mental Status 
  17. Female and Male Genitalia 
  18. Anus and Rectum 
  19. Functional Assessment 
  20. Putting it all together-Integrated Physical Exam

 


Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

The following teaching strategies will be employed but not limited to: Lectures, discussion, multimedia, case studies, and lab experiences. 

Goals and Objectives of the Course

Upon successful completion of the course, the student will be able to: 

  1. Demonstrate skill in interviewing and communication techniques recognizing the client as a partner to obtain a holistic health history. 
  2. Apply knowledge and skill to perform an individualized safe and accurate physical assessment. 
  3. Translate and interpret data collected from the client history and physical assessment in a concise, accurate, and logical sequence. 
  4. Utilize and demonstrate critical thinking with the ability to integrate the complete history and physical assessment. 
  5. Utilize and demonstrate critical thinking by interpreting assessment data and selecting appropriate nursing diagnoses. 
  6. Discuss pertinent findings in select body systems occurring across the life-span incorporating the influence of cultural diversity.

Assessment Measures

May include but are not limited to: 

  • Exams; Quizzes 
  • Paper 
  • Project, Individual or Group 
  • Care Plan 
  • Oral Presentations 
  • Class Participation 
  • Laboratory Activities

 

Other Course Information

None



Review and Approval

April 2006 Undergraduate Curriculum Marcella Griggs, Director

February 2011, Kim Carter, Director

February 2021, Iris Mullins, Chair

March 18, 2026

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