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NURS 448

I. Course Title: Nursing of the Adult II

II. Course Number: NURS 448

III. Credit Hours
: 5 credits

IV. Prerequisites: NURS 362, NURS 364, NURS 368

V. Course Description:

This course focuses on nursing care for adult clients with complex health problems incorporating clinical experiences in a variety of community settings.  Previously gained knowledge as well a new knowledge is emphasized to promote the acutely ill client’s holistic health.  Theoretical knowledge and clinical application facilitate transition from student to professional nurse.  

VI. Detailed Description of Content of the Course:

This is a web-enhanced course with emphasis placed on nursing care of the client experiencing critical illness.  

Topical Outline:


Respiratory and Ventilation
   Respiratory Process
   Arterial Blood Gas Analysis
   Mechanical Ventilation
   Nursing Care of the Client with Altered Respiratory Function
Perfusion                            
   Determinants of Cardiac Output
   Altered Cardiac Dysfunction and Electrocardiograph Monitoring
   Hemodynamic Monitoring
Shock States
   Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome
Neurologic
   Consciousness
   Acute Cerebral Dysfunction
   Spinal Cord Injury
Metabolic
   Altered Glucose Metabolism
   Acute Renal Dysfunction Injury
   Acute Burn Injury
   Trauma Assessment and Resuscitation
   Organ Transplantation
   Gastrointestinal
   Acute Hepatic Dysfunction
   Acute Pancreatic Dysfunction

VI. Detailed Description of Conduct of Course:


May include but not limited to: lectures and discussion based on case studies and problem-based learning, data clustering and concept mapping, videotapes, DVDs, overheads , guest lectures, written projects, guided clinical practice, clinical conferences, and student presentations.

VII. Goals and Objectives of the Course:

The objectives and content of this level 3 Course are derived from the School of Nursing’s philosophy and conceptual framework, and facilitate achievement of the School’s program objectives 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 and advancement in theory and clinical practice also determine content.

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

1. Develop the knowledge and methods of a variety of disciplines to informed decision making in the high acuity setting.
2. Demonstrate increasing skill in applying frameworks for ethical decision-making and advocate for high quality patient care. Promotes the image of nursing by modeling the values and articulating the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of the nursing profession
3. Implement evidence-based nursing interventions as appropriate for managing the acute and chronic care of patients and promoting health across the lifespan in the high acuity setting.
4. Apply patient-care technologies as appropriate to address the needs of a diverse patient population.
5. Integrate clinical judgment, inter-professional perspectives, and patient preferences in planning, implementing, and evaluating outcomes of care.  
6. Contribute the nursing perspective to inter-professional teams.  Advocates for high quality safe patient care in the high acuity setting; optimizing outcomes of individuals, families, and aggregates.
7. Implement evidence-based state and national regulations and/or prevention strategies that affect populations in the high acuity
8. Recognize and report any known or suspected incidences of abuse, neglect, or exploitation of any patient or incapacitated adults.
9. Conduct comprehensive and focused assessments of health and illness parameters of patients, using developmentally and culturally appropriate approaches.

VIII. Assessment Measures:


Assessment measures may include but are not limited to Tests, Exams, Quizzes, Written projects, Individual or Group projects, Oral presentation, Class Participation, Clinical Performance, Case studies, Team Based Learning, Case Analysis written project, and group presentations.

Review and Approval


May 2001 Undergraduate Curriculum Janet Hardy Boettcher, Revision Director

April 2004 Review/Approval Undergraduate Curriculum Committee

February 2011, Kim Carter, Director

March 2021, Iris Mullins, Director