NURSING

Stark Hall, Room 303 (507-457-5120)
www.winona.edu/nursing
Email: nursing@winona.edu
Joanne Stejskal (Chairperson)

FACULTY

Note: All nursing faculty are registered nurses.

Susan Ballard, Professor; B.S.N., University of Illinois; M.S.N., University of Minnesota; 1984 –
Cynthia Bork, Associate Professor; B.S.N., College of St. Teresa; M.S., Winona State University; Ed.D., St. Mary’s University of Minnesota; 1993 –
Diane McNally Forsyth, Associate Professor; B.S., Winona State University; M.S., University of Wisconsin-Madison; Ph.D., University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee; 2004 –
Karen L. Gardner, Professor; B.S.N., Florida State University; M.S.N., Texas Woman’s University; 1985 –
Phyllis Gaspar, Professor; B.S.N., M.S.N., University of Nebraska; Ph.D., Case Western Reserve University; 1995 –
Timothy Gaspar, Professor, Dean, College of Nursing and Health Sciences; B.S., South Dakota State University; M.S.N., University of Nebraska Medical Center; Ph.D., University of Utah; 1995 –
Elizabeth Harrison, Associate Professor; B.S., University of Wisconsin-La Crosse; A.A., Rochester Community College; B.S., Marquette University; M.S., Ph.D., University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee; 2005 –
Jacqueline Hatlevig, Professor; B.S.N., Winona State University; M.S.N., Ph.D., University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee; 1987 –
Linda Heath, Associate Professor; B.S., M.S.N., University of Wisconsin; Ph.D., Walden University; 1993 –
Judy Hovelson, Associate Professor; B.S.N., University of Vermont; M.S.N., University of Minnesota; F.N.P., Winona State University; 1984 –
Lola Johnson, Professor; B.S.N., Minnesota State University-Mankato; M.S.N., Washington University; Ph.D., Rush University; 1989 –
Kathryn Lammers, Assistant Professor, B.S., Kent State University; M.S.N., Winona State University; 2001 –
William McBreen, Professor; B.S.N., Mount Marty College; M.S.N., University of Nebraska Medical Center; Ph.D., University of Texas; 2000 –
Jane Mrozek, Assistant Professor; B.S., Viterbo College; M.S., University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire; 2006 –
Shirley Newberry, Associate Professor; B.S., University of Dubuque; M.S., Winona State University; Ph.D., Rush University; 1994 –
Catherine Nosek, Associate Professor; A.D., Inver Hills Community College; B.S., M.S., University of Wisconsin; Ph.D., University of Wisconsin-Madison; 1997 –
Gayle P. Olsen, Professor; B.S.N., College of Saint Teresa; M.S., University of California; 1980 –
Ann Olson, Associate Professor; B.S., Winona State University; M.A., St. Mary’s University of Minnesota; M.S., Winona State University; 2007 –
Kathy S. Orth, Professor; A.A., Austin Community College; B.S.N., College of Saint Teresa; M.S.N., University of Minnesota; 1983 –
Christine E. Pilon-Kacir, Professor; B.S.N., Mercy College of Detroit; M.S., University of Michigan; Ph.D. University of Missouri, 1992 –
Julie Ponto, Associate Professor; B.S., University of Minnesota; M.S., University of California-San Francisco; 2004 –
Nancee Quinn, Assistant Professor, B.S.N., South Dakota State University; M.S., Winona State University; 2006 –
Amy Reitmaier, Assistant Professor; B.S., M.S., Winona State University; 2006 –
Martha Scheckel, Assistant Professor, B.S.N., Graceland University; M.S.N., Clarke College; Ph.D., University of Wisconsin-Madison; 2005 –
Cindy Scherb, Professor, B.S., Mount Mercy College; M.S., University of Minnesota; Ph.D., University of Iowa; 2002 –
Lisa Schnepper, Associate Professor; A.D., Western Wisconsin Technical College; B.S., Winona State University; M.S., University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire; 2005 –
Linda Seppanen, Professor; B.S.N., St. Olaf College; M.S.N., The Catholic University of America; Ph.D., University of Alabama; 1990 –
Joanne Stejskal, Professor; B.S.N., College of Saint Teresa; M.S.N., University of Wisconsin; Ed.D., University of St. Thomas; 1975 –
Susan Sullivan, Assistant Professor; B.S., M.S., Winona State University; 2004 –
Patricia Thompson, Professor; B.S.N., B.S., Winona State University; M.S.P.H., Ph.D., University of Minnesota; 1990 –
Mary Welhaven, Professor; B.S.N., Winona State University; M.S., Ph.D., University of Minnesota; 1981 –
Linda Wlodyga, Assistant Professor; B.S.N., Rush University; M.S.N., University of Phoenix; 2007 –

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The nursing major offers a liberal education with a concentration of study in nursing. The curriculum builds on a broad base of university studies. In addition to liberal learning and global perspectives, students develop clinical, scientific, decision-making, and caring skills in nursing courses that combine the theory and the practice of nursing. Graduates are prepared to practice in all health care settings, work with clients of all ages, and pursue graduate study. The nursing major is structured in two options:

• Generic Option for students seeking professional preparation at the level of B.S. degree (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) and registered nurse licensure. The Generic Option can be completed on the Winona campus, through the 2+2 Program with RCTC on the Rochester campus (page 41), or by traditional transfer. This option includes two years of sequenced upper-division nursing coursework. Most students complete the major on a full-time basis of study; part-time study is possible.
• RN-to-BS Option for those who already hold a registered nurse license and are now seeking a B. S. degree. This option includes sequenced upper-division nursing courses that can be completed in one to two years after all other degree requirements are completed. The RN-to-BS Option can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis at the Rochester campus and through outreach. The Department of Nursing also offers an adapted RN-to-MS Professional Pathway for registered nurses whose goal is to earn a Masters Degree in Nursing.

A variety of community facilities are utilized for site-based experiences for students in the nursing major. Campus assignment determines location of clinical facilities. Students in the Generic Option assigned to the Winona campus participate in acute care clinical experiences at Community Memorial Hospital in Winona and the Gundersen-Lutheran and Franciscan-Skemp medical complexes in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Students in the Generic Option assigned to the Rochester campus participate in acute care clinical experiences at hospitals affiliated with Mayo Medical Center and Olmsted Medical Center. Both campuses also offer a wide variety of other clinical experiences in nursing homes, public health agencies, mental health agencies, school systems, occupational health settings and other agencies, and clients’ homes. Students in the RN-to-BS Option have learning experiences in the Rochester area through a variety of community and county agencies. RN-to-BS courses are delivered through classroom and web-based instruction.

ACCREDITATION AND APPROVAL
The Nursing Programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), 1 Dupont Circle NW, Suite 530, Washington, D. C. 20036-1120 (202-887-6791 or www.aacn.nche.edu). The undergraduate Nursing Program is approved by the Minnesota Board of Nursing (www.nursingboard.state.mn.us). Graduates are eligible to write the professional nurse licensure examination (NCLEX-RN) and apply for Public Health Nursing Certification. Graduates can apply to the Board of Teaching for a school nurse license in Minnesota after they obtain the RN license and Public Health Nurse certification.

ADMISSIONS
For general information about Winona State University admission procedures and requirements, see page 5.

Admission to the Generic Option
1. Complete the WSU admissions process before the application deadline for the nursing major.
2. Complete the application to the nursing major during the spring semester prior to beginning nursing courses the following fall (during a student’s second year) or during the fall semester for spring admission prior to beginning nursing courses. Check with the Department of Nursing for the application deadline set for that semester. Notification of admission to the nursing major is made during the semester of application. Nursing advisors are available to assist with the application process. Please refer to the Department of Nursing Student Progression Policies for further delineation of the admission policies. The number of students admitted to the upper-division nursing major is limited.
a. Students applying to the nursing major must have completed four prerequisite courses in the natural sciences with a grade of “C” or better and have an admission GPA of 3.00 or above. This admission GPA is cumulative and calculated on the most recent five years of college coursework. If there are fewer than 50 credits within the 5-year interval and there are previous college credits, the most recent 50 semester hour credits of college work will be used. If 50 credits fall within a semester, all credits within that semester will be used in the GPA calculation. Quarter credits will be converted into semester credits. All grades for prerequisite courses must be at a “C” or better no matter when they were completed. All prerequisite coursework must be completed before beginning coursework in the major.
b. When applying, students must indicate a plan for completing any remaining prerequisite courses in the natural and social sciences and ENG 111 prior to starting the nursing major in the fall. ALL prerequisite courses must be completed with a grade of “C” or better.
c. In addition to meeting the above requirements, a student transferring from another nursing program must submit to the Department of Nursing an official transcript from the program and a letter from the academic head of the program stating that the student is eligible for continuation in or readmission to that program. Placement in the major will then be determined based on background and space available.
d. Campus preference (Winona or Rochester) is indicated during the application phase. Campus assignments are made at the time of admission to the major. Students who are accepted to a particular campus must start at that campus in the semester for which they applied. Slots will not be held from semester to semester.

Four-Year Graduation Guarantee
Winona State University guarantees that all eligible students wishing to graduate in four years will be provided necessary courses as required by the University, the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, and the participating department. This guarantee applies to new entering first-year students who begin at Winona State University in the fall semester. Students who earn college credits during high school years or during the summer prior to their first year at WSU meet this requirement as the four-year period begins with the fall semester of the first year. Any required courses needed beyond four years will be provided to the student tuition-free, subject to the student’s fulfillment of the conditions.

Students who meet the following requirements of the Four-Year Graduation Guarantee are admitted to the nursing major:
1. All fall semester entering first-year students who wish to participate in the graduation guarantee program must complete the guarantee application form and officially declare a major within the Department of Nursing before beginning their fall semester classes.
2. All participating students must be qualified to begin college-level (i.e., non-remedial) science, mathematics and English as required by the nursing major. If the student takes MATH 050 or English (ENG) 099, this contract is void.
3. All participating students must pre-register for classes each semester and have their schedules approved by their official nursing advisor.
4. All participating students must meet any University or program GPA and/or grade requirements as stipulated in the University catalog and/or schedule of classes. They must also have a cumulative GPA of 3.300 at the time of first application to the nursing major. The cumulative GPA is not rounded up.
5. All participating students must successfully complete an average course load of 16 credits each semester (32 credits per year). This includes any PSEO credits and summer school credits completed prior to the first application to the nursing major.
6. All prerequisite courses must be completed with a grade of “C” or better, and none of these courses can be repeated.
7. No change in major, option, or minor.
8. Failure to meet any of the above conditions (1-7) voids the guarantee. Once the graduation guarantee is void, the student is not eligible for reinstatement of the contract.

Admission to the RN-to-BS Option
1. Complete the WSU admissions process before applying to the nursing major (page 5). After receiving the Official Evaluation of Credit from the
Office of Admissions (DARS), arrange an appointment with a nursing advisor on the Rochester campus.
2. Apply for admission to the nursing major. Applicants to the Nursing Program are admitted once a year for the following academic year.
a. Contact the Rochester campus Nursing Department office in the preceding fall for application materials, deadline dates, and general information. Students need to seek academic advisement prior to applying to the RN-to-BS Option program to ensure that all requirements are fulfilled. Select the full-time or part-time option for completing the nursing courses.
b. Additional degree requirements beyond nursing courses will need to be completed for graduation. It is highly recommended that all non-nursing
degree requirements and the nursing requirement of 5 upper-division elective credits be completed prior to the RN-to-BS Option nursing courses
because of scheduling considerations.
c. All RN-to-BS Option students must hold an RN license with current registration by a state or territory of the United States. A photocopy of the license must be submitted to the Nursing Department.
d. Twenty-four credits in the RN-to-BS Option of the nursing major (NURS 302, NURS 304, NURS 306, and NURS 308) will be granted by transfer to RN students who have completed an Associate Degree in Nursing from an NLNAC-accredited program. The Comprehensive Nursing Assessment Test (CNAT) is used as a challenge for these credits for RNs who are graduates of diploma programs and A.D.N. programs that are not accredited by NLNAC. If the examination is successfully completed at 74% achievement, the 24 credits are validated for the graduate of the A.D.N. program not accredited by NLNAC. For the graduate of the diploma program, if the examination is successfully completed at 74% achievement, the 24 credits are processed through the WSU registration with payment of appropriate tuition. The CNAT may be retaken if the 74% is not attained. The cost of the CNAT is borne by the student.
e. The RN-to-MS Professional Pathway is designed for highly motivated nurses who graduated with an associate degree in nursing or a diploma in nursing, who have nursing experience, and whose goal is a Masters Degree in Nursing. Selected courses meet requirements for the undergraduate and graduate programs. Students must meet additional admission requirements and should also consult the WSU Graduate Catalog. Separate formal application to the Master’s Nursing Program is required. Further information can be obtained from the Department of Nursing at WSU-Rochester.

MnSCU Statewide Nursing Articulation Agreement
The following terms and conditions of articulation among nursing programs are in effect at WSU:
1. The candidate must have graduated from an Associate Degree program for registered nurses that is approved by a state board of nursing and based in a regionally accredited college or university.
2. The candidate must have been awarded the Associate in Science (A.S.) Degree in Nursing with a cumulative GPA of 2.75 and a minimum grade of “C” in each nursing course.
3. The candidate must have been graduated from a board-approved program in nursing and have a current unencumbered authorization to practice as a
Registered Nurse (RN).
4. The Associate in Science (A.S.) Degree transfers to the baccalaureate institution as a whole package of nursing major and supporting courses.
5. Articulation RNs should not be required to complete more total credits for the degree than the generic nursing baccalaureate students.

ACADEMIC POLICIES, PROCEDURES, REQUIREMENTS, AND RESOURCES

Costs
Nursing students admitted into the upper-division nursing major must assume responsibility for any costs incurred while meeting the clinical agency requirements. Nursing students are expected to provide their own transportation to all site-based experiences. Nursing students also must assume responsibility for the costs of their name pins and any necessary identification, uniform(s), lab coats and faculty-approved stethoscopes, as well as any costs incurred to maintain their health (throat cultures, physician/nurse practitioner visits, etc.) and meet any clinical agency requirements. Initial costs for book purchases for junior nursing students in the Generic Option can total approximately $750 to $1000. Most textbooks are used throughout the program. Nursing students need to provide for themselves compatible computer access for electronic communication for coursework and departmental needs. Fees will be assessed for learning and assessment purposes.

Scholarships
A number of scholarships are available for nursing majors through the Department of Nursing; a complete listing is maintained in the Nursing Department Offices on both the Rochester and Winona campuses. Students should apply for scholarships one academic year in advance of the academic year when the scholarship is desired (e.g., apply during the 2008-2009 academic year for the 2009-2010 academic year). Scholarships are provided by individual benefactors, affiliated hospitals, and professional and community organizations. Students are encouraged to contact agencies (hospitals, nursing homes, American Legion, VFW, etc.) in their hometowns regarding possible nursing scholarships. Refer to pages 10 and 13 for general information on financial aid and scholarships, respectively.

Professional-Related Organizations
Minnesota Student Nurses Association (MSNA): This is a pre-professional organization with membership at the local, state, and national levels. Declared nursing majors are welcome and encouraged to join. The Winona campus MSNA office is located in Stark Hall, Room 324. Names of current officers are posted on Nursing Department bulletin boards in Winona and Rochester.
Undergraduate Nursing Clubs: The membership includes all who are in the Generic Option, with separate clubs on the Winona and Rochester campuses. They deal with student-related issues and events. Officers and representatives to Department of Nursing committees are elected yearly, and names are posted on the respective campuses.
Kappa Mu Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau: The purpose of this nursing honor society is to recognize superior achievement and development of leadership qualities, foster high professional standards, and encourage creative work. Membership is by invitation and includes nurses in the southeast Minnesota area and students.

Program Assessment
The Department of Nursing requires all students enrolled in the nursing major to participate in the systematic evaluation of program outcomes. This involves completion of surveys, participation in discussion groups, and maintenance of a portfolio. This portfolio includes examples of work showing critical thinking, communication abilities, caring therapeutic nursing interventions and service, and evidence of progression in the professional nursing roles throughout the educational experience. Costs associated with program assessment may be the student’s responsibility.

Honors in Nursing Program
This program provides eligible students an opportunity to participate in scholarly activity above and beyond the normal course of study provided within the Nursing Department. Students in the Honors in Nursing Program have an opportunity to work closely with faculty advisors pursuing research or clinical projects, and they receive recognition for their achievements. Students interested in the Honors in Nursing Program should contact their nursing faculty advisor. Students who successfully complete the Honors in Nursing Program will, upon graduation, have their official transcripts stamped with the words, “Graduated with Honors in Nursing”; their graduation status (Honors in Nursing) will be indicated on the graduation program.

Standards within the Nursing Major
To satisfy the academic standards of the nursing major, students must:
1. Achieve a grade of “C” or above in each required nursing course. Grades less than “C” constitute a failure in the nursing major. Students must adhere to the University standards for retention and scholarship.
2. Maintain a level of health that does not interfere with the student’s ability to function adequately and safely in the nursing major. The student is expected to seek appropriate professional assistance as needed. The faculty may recommend the need for assistance, a leave of absence, and/or withdrawal from the program.
3. Follow the ethical responsibilities as outlined in the Handbook for Undergraduate Nursing Students.
4. Complete the forms for the background studies conducted by the licensing division of the Department of Human Services on behalf of the Department of Health. Under the 1995 amendments to the Vulnerable Adults Act, individuals who provide direct contact service to patients or residents in select health facilities must undergo a background check.
“Minnesota law requires that any person who provides services that involve direct contact with patients and residents at a health care facility licensed by the Minnesota Department of Health have a background study conducted by the state. An individual who is disqualified from having direct patient contact as a result of the background study, and whose disqualification is not set aside by the Commissioner of Health, will not be permitted to participate in a clinical placement in a Minnesota licensed health care facility. Failure to participate in a clinical placement required by the academic program could result in ineligibility to qualify for a degree in this program.”
5. Meet clinical agency requirements when enrolled in courses with site-based experiences: yearly Mantoux skin tests; diphtheria-tetanus immunity; measles, mumps and rubella immunity; polio immunity; Hepatitis B vaccination; chicken pox immunity/titer; medical/hospital insurance coverage; a physical examination within the past 10 years; annual health care provider CPR certification; and professional liability insurance. The professional liability insurance will be an automatic fee, which the student incurs upon admission to the nursing major.

Professional Retention and Progression Policies
1. No nursing course may be repeated more than once due to withdrawal or grade less than “C.” (A grade of “D” or less is considered to be a failing grade.) No theory exams can be retaken. Students who fail or withdraw from a course (theory and/or clinical) will be able to continue part-time in the nursing major if they have satisfied progression policies and as space allows.
2. Students will not be allowed to continue in the nursing major if they have failed or withdrawn for academic reasons from the same nursing course more than once or from two different nursing courses over more than one semester.
3. A student may be dismissed from a course for breach of ethical responsibilities. See the Handbook for Undergraduate Nursing Students or contact the Office of the Vice President for Student Life and Development for information regarding University expectations and policies. A student dismissed for such a violation will not be allowed to continue in any clinical nursing course that semester, will be dropped from the nursing major at the end of the semester, and will be not readmitted to the major.
4. A student may be dismissed from a nursing course for breach of clinical safe practice guidelines as described in the course syllabus.
5. Students who once were admitted to the nursing major, completed at least one nursing course, but currently are not enrolled in the nursing major have one year from the date of withdrawal/failure to file a progression plan approved by the nursing advisor (for Generic Option students) or the RN Coordinator (for RN-to-BS Option students). After one year, the student must reapply for admission to the nursing major.
6. All students are assigned to a clinical site-based experience sequence. If a student varies from the assigned plan, space in clinical courses cannot be assured.
7. All part-time students must file a written progression plan that has been approved by the nursing advisor or the RN-to-BS Option Coordinator (for RN-to-BS Option students) and the Progression Committee.
8. Students who change from full-time to part-time status in the nursing major for academic or personal reasons must file a progression plan developed with the assistance of their academic advisor and must obtain plan approval from the department chairperson or designated faculty member (for Generic Option students) or the RN Coordinator (for RN-to-BS Option students). This plan is based on space availability in clinical courses and completion of prerequisites for courses.
9. The grade of “Incomplete” (I) may be granted at the discretion of the course instructor in special cases where, for reasons beyond the student’s control, some course assignments were not finished but the student was passing all other aspects (refer to page 25). For courses that are prerequisite to subsequent nursing courses, the “Incomplete” must be resolved by the second week of the new semester.

Credit by Examination
A student may receive credit by examination and/or demonstration of competence for courses or parts of courses in the Generic and RN-to-BS Options. Faculty permission is needed for some course challenges.

Graduation Requirements
Graduation requirements include completion of WSU University Studies Program requirements or their equivalent for transfer students as well as all nursing major course requirements. A total of 128 semester credits is needed to graduate with a baccalaureate degree from WSU; at least 64 of these semester credits must be from a four-year college. For the RN-to-BS Option nursing major, the 64 credits from a four-year college include 30 credits in nursing, 3 credits in statistics, 5 upper-division elective credits (2 credits of these in nursing), plus 26 credits.
A formal application for graduation must be made no later than one semester before the expected graduation semester. For a checklist of the University’s graduation requirements, see page 23.

Withdrawal
Withdrawal from a nursing course and/or the University must be completed according to WSU guidelines (page 27).

OBTAINING LICENSURE AS A REGISTERED NURSE
After graduation, Generic Option nursing graduates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) in order to obtain a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Students may apply for licensure and take the NCLEX-RN in the state of their choice. Contact information for all state boards of nursing can be obtained from the National Council of State Boards of Nursing at http://www.ncsbn.org/.

UNIVERSITY STUDIES FLAG REQUIREMENTS
Students may use flag courses to satisfy both University Studies and major requirements. Flag courses will usually be in the student’s major or minor program. The Department of Nursing offers the following flag courses in the University Studies Program:

FLAG
Oral #
NURS 419 Advanced Health Promotion (3)
NURS 491 Capstone Experience in Role Synthesis (3)
Math/Critical Analysis #
NURS 375 Nursing Research, Theory, and Technology (3)
Writing #
NURS 330 Role Development I (3)

NURS 423 Role Development III (4)
NURS 445 Management and Leadership (3) (RN-to-BS Option) NURS 475 Community Health Nursing (4) (RN-to-BS Option)

Flag courses that can be used to satisfy nursing major/minor requirements are identified in the lists of required courses and electives in this section.

B.S. MAJOR - NURSING (NUGE; NURN)
96 S.H. (No Minor Required)

Note: All courses must be taken for a letter grade

PREREQUISITES/REQUIRED COURSES 41 S.H.
NATURAL SCIENCE 22 S.H.
Biology (14 S.H.)
BIOL 206 Normal Nutrition (3) OR HERS 205 Nutrition for
Lifetime Wellness (3)
BIOL 209 Microbiology (3)
* BIOL 211 Anatomy and Physiology I (4)
* BIOL 212 Anatomy and Physiology II (4)
Chemistry (5-8 S.H.)
CHEM 210 Chemistry for Health Sciences (4) OR
CHEM *212 (4), *213 (4) Principles of Chemistry I and II
SOCIAL SCIENCE 12 S.H.
Psychology (6 S.H.)
* PSY 210 Introduction to Psychological Science (3)
* PSY 250 Developmental Psychology (3)
Sociology (6 S.H.)
* SOC 150 Introduction to Sociology (3)
* SOC 212 The Family (3)

OTHER REQUIRED COURSES 7 S.H.
English (4 S.H.)
ENG 111 College Reading and Writing (4)
Statistics (3 S.H.)
STAT 110 Fundamentals of Statistics (3) OR
# PSY 231 Statistics (3) Note: This course does not fulfill a
mathematics requirement for University Studies Program
(USP).

UPPER-DIVISION ELECTIVES
(300- and 400-level courses) (5 S.H.)
Five semester hours of upper-division electives (300- and 400-level courses) are required for the nursing major; of these, two semester hours must be from nursing electives. Electives may be taken as letter grade or pass/no credit if the courses are offered on a P/NC basis.

NURSING ELECTIVES (100-200 LEVEL)
120 Introduction to the Health Professions (3) (USP—Contemporary
Citizenship)
260 Women’s Health Issues (3) (USP—ContemporaryCitizenship)

NURSING ELECTIVES - NURS (300-400 LEVEL)
325 Transcultural Issues in Health Care (3)
(USP—Multicultural Perspectives)
327 Introduction to Public Health (3)
360 Pharmacology (1) (for RN-to-BS Option only)
366 Pathophysiology (3) (for RN-to-BS Option only)
382 A London Nursing History Tour (2)
392 Cardiac Risk Prevention (3) (USP—Critical Analysis)
399 Skills for Professional Success (2)
401 Spirituality in Nursing (2)
402 Clinical Pharmacology (3) (RN-to-MS
Professional Pathway)
404 Advanced Pathophysiology (3) (RN-to-MS
Professional Pathway)
406 Psychosocial Interventions in Family Care (2) (RN-to-MS
Professional Pathway)
408 Advanced Role Seminar (2) (RN-to-MS
Professional Pathway)
410 Theoretical Foundations and Research for
Advanced Nursing Practice
412 Critical Care Nursing (2-3)
414 Health Care Policy and Finance (3) (RN-to-MS
Professional Pathway)
416 Issues in Gerontology and Geriatrics for the
21st Century (1-3)
417 Health Assessment Techniques (1)
418 Computer Applications in Nursing (2)
# 419 Advanced Health Promotion (3) (RN-to-MS Professional
Pathway)
432 Principles of OR Nursing (3)
460 Cooperative Education in Nursing (3)
480 Holistic Approaches to Health (3)
490 Independent Study in Nursing (1-3)
492 Jamaica Studies: Health Care in an Emerging Country (3)
493 The Patient’s Voice: Experiences of Illness (2)
494 Contemporary Film: Understanding the Patient’s Experience (2)
495 Seminar/Workshop in Nursing (1-3)
496 Feminist Perspectives in Nursing (2)
497 Nursing Care of the Aged (3)
498 Advanced Critical and Progressive Care Nursing (2) (Registered Nurses only)

B.S. MAJOR - NURSING: GENERIC OPTION (NUGE)
56 S.H. (Required courses must be taken for a letter grade.)

REQUIRED COURSES (NURS)
300 Caring Skills I (2)
301 Caring Skills II (2)
311 Clinical Decisions: Adult Health I (2)
320 Caring Concepts I (3)
321 Caring Concepts II (3)
# 330 Role Development I (3)
331 Role Development II (4)
345 Health Assessment I (3)
360 Pharmacology (1)
366 Pathophysiology (3)
# 375 Nursing Research, Theory and Technology (3)
400 Emerging Health Care Systems (2)
411 Clinical Decisions: Adult Health II (2)
413 Nursing of Families Experiencing Mental Illness (2)
421 Nursing of Childbearing Families (2)
422 Nursing of Childrearing Families (2)
# 423 Role Development III (4)
433 Role Development III Seminar (1)
471 Community Health Care (2)
472 Leadership/Management in Nursing (2)
474 Role Development IV (4)
484 Role Development IV Seminar (1)
# 491 Capstone Experience in Role Synthesis (3)

B.S. MAJOR - NURSING: RN-TO-BS OPTION (NURN)
54 S.H. (Required courses must be taken for a letter grade.)
Note: Includes 24 S.H. of nursing in transfer or exam.
REQUIRED COURSES (NURS)
# 375 Nursing Research, Theory and Technology (3)
415 Holistic Caring (5)
435 Holistic Assessment (4)
# 445 Management and Leadership (3)
455 Continuity of Care (4)
465 Nursing Roles and Health Promotion (4)
# 475 Community Health Nursing (4)
# 491 Capstone Experience in Role Synthesis (3)

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS (NURS)
Note: Courses offered on a pass/no credit-only (P/NC) or grade-only basis are so designated. All required courses in the major must be completed on a grade-only basis.

120 - Introduction to the Health Professions (3 S.H.)
Examines the practice and politics of the health and health-related disciplines within the U.S. health care system. Explores entering the health care professions and also how to be an astute consumer of health care. P/NC option.
260 - Women’s Health Issues (3 S.H.)
A study of contemporary issues in women’s health focusing on historical aspects, current significance, and future trends of each issue. Focus is on preparing students to make their own health care decisions. P/NC option.
300 - Caring Skills I (2 S.H.) (Generic Option)
Develops the knowledge and skills for meeting basic physiologic needs and providing a safe environment for individual clients as part of professional nursing practice lab course. Prerequisite: Admission to the major. Grade only.
301 - Caring Skills II (2 S.H.) (Generic Option)
Develops the knowledge and skills for integrating selected therapeutic nursing interventions into nursing care of individuals, families, and communities in professional nursing practice. Lab course. Prerequisite: NURS 300. Grade only.
302 - CNAT: Care of the Adult Client (6 S.H.) (RN-to-BS Option)
Demonstration of knowledge through an exam focusing on the nursing care of clients in a variety of settings and at various stages of the wellness-illness continuum. Items also assess nursing skills in meeting physiologic and psychosocial needs of clients with stable conditions. The Comprehensive Nursing Assessment Test (CNAT) is required for RNs who are graduates of diploma programs and A.D.N. programs that are not accredited by NLNAC. P/NC only.
304 - CNAT: Care of Client During Childbearing (6 S.H.)
(RN-to-BS Option)
Demonstration of knowledge through an exam focusing on nursing care during the antepartal, intrapartal, and neonatal periods. Emphasis is on the normal, with some common complications. The Comprehensive Nursing Assessment Test (CNAT) is required for RNs who are graduates of diploma programs and A.D.N. programs that are not accredited by NLNAC. P/NC only.
306 - CNAT: Care of the Child (6 S.H.) (RN-to-BS Option)
Demonstration of knowledge through an exam concerned with nursing care of children of all ages at various stages of health and illness. The Comprehensive Nursing Assessment Test (CNAT) is required for RNs who are graduates of diploma programs and A.D.N. programs that are not accredited by NLNAC. P/NC only.
308 - CNAT: Care of the Client with a Mental Disorder (6 S.H.)
(RN-to-BS Option)
Demonstration of knowledge through an exam addressing the broad spectrum of psychological wellness-illness. The content includes psychosocial assessment and intervention strategies to support the client’s strengths. The Comprehensive Nursing Assessment Test (CNAT) is required for RNs who are graduates of diploma programs and A.D.N. programs that are not accredited by NLNAC. P/NC only.
311 - Clinical Decisions: Adult Health I (2) (Generic Option)
This course introduces students to beginning clinical decision-making and the application of therapeutic nursing interventions for adult clients and their families. Students are expected to apply theory and scientific principles, as well as to begin analyzing client responses to nursing and medical interventions. Prerequisites: NURS 320, NURS 330, NURS 345, NURS 360, NURS 366. Grade only.
320 - Caring Concepts I (3 S.H.) (Generic Option)
Introduces the profession of nursing in the context of the changing health care delivery system. The course emphasizes caring, critical thinking, and the student as an active learner. The course focuses on the individual and family as client and introduces ethical decision-making and crisis intervention. The professional roles of provider of care, advocate, and scholar are emphasized. Prerequisite: Admission to the major. Grade only.
321 - Caring Concepts II (3 S.H.) (Generic Option)
The course focuses on the application of the nursing process with families, groups, and communities, including high-risk population groups. Emphasis is on health promotion across the life span; health risk appraisal and assessment techniques for families, groups, and communities; and public health principles for population-based practice. Students will be introduced to major/national public health initiatives. Prerequisite: NURS 320. Grade only.
325 - Transcultural Issues in Health Care (3 S.H.) (Elective)
Explores the importance of transcultural concepts that are present in health care delivery systems. It is designed to help learners increase awareness of all types of human diversity, understand the importance of these diverse differences, and incorporate ways of utilizing this knowledge to deliver culturally competent health care in all settings within the global community. Prerequisite: Sophomore standing or instructor’s permission. P/NC option.
327 - Introduction to Public Health (3 S.H.) (Elective)
This course is designed to introduce concepts of public health appropriate for students in health care fields. These concepts will be applied to present health care delivery systems, health and disease of population groups, and community planning. The influence of political, economic, and social aspects are considered. P/NC Option.
330 - Role Development I (3 S.H.) (Generic Option)
This site-based experience introduces the student to the professional nursing role. It offers students the opportunity to apply the skills, decision-making, and the nurse-client relationship principles. Students will have experiences in the community and health care facilities to develop the nursing role. Prerequisite: Admission to the major; prerequisites or corequisites: NURS 300, NURS 320, NURS 345, NURS 360, NURS 366. Grade only.
331 - Role Development II (4 S.H.) (Generic Option)
This site-based experience (SBE) course offers the students opportunity to apply content of previous and concurrent nursing courses in the care of individuals, families and/or children, and aggregates. To meet the objectives of this course, students rotate through various settings (i.e., ambulatory clinics, acute care settings, schools, workplaces, and/or homes). Prerequisites: NURS 300, NURS 320, NURS 330, NURS 345, NURS 360, NURS 366; prerequisites or corequisites: NURS 301, NURS 321. Grade only.
345 - Health Assessment I (3 S.H.) (Generic Option)
This course provides an opportunity for students to develop the beginning knowledge and skills necessary for holistic assessment of individuals who have had no previously identified health problem. Content on history taking, physical assessment skills, and health problem identification is included. Prerequisite: Admission to the major or instructor’s permission. Lecture and lab course. Grade only.
360 - Pharmacology (1 S.H.) (Generic Option; elective for
RN-to-BS Option)
This course is designed to provide the student with the pharmacologic basis for understanding drug therapies. Prerequisite: Generic nursing option, RN-to-BS option, instructor’s permission. Grade only.
366 - Pathophysiology (3 S.H.) (Generic Option; elective for
RN-to-BS Option)
This course is designed to provide the student with an understanding of the pathophysiologic processes which may occur within the human individual throughout the life span and which are associated with diminished health states. Common treatment modalities of selected health conditions will be discussed. Prerequisite: Completion of anatomy and physiology sequence or instructor’s permission. HERS prerequisites: HERS 340 and completion of the anatomy and physiology sequence. Grade only.
375 - Nursing Research, Theory and Technology (3 S.H.)
(Generic & RN-to-BS Options)
Develops the ability to analyze, critique, and interpret research findings and data based on nursing theory and practice needs. Includes use of selected software and technological modalities. Prerequisite: Statistics course or instructor’s permission. Grade only.
382 - A London Nursing History Tour (2 S.H.)
This travel program is an experiential enrichment course that provides nursing students with an opportunity to study nursing history and to compare nursing education programs and health care delivery systems of the United States and the United Kingdom. Students will also have the opportunity for historical sightseeing and museum tours. Prerequisite: Instructor’s permission; NURS 400 recommended. Grade only.
392 - Cardiac Risk Prevention (3 S.H.) (Elective)
This course is designed to identify risk factors that can lead to cardiovascular disease. The major risk factors will be analyzed, and strategies for modifying each will be developed. Health information sources and their reliability for health promotion information also will be discussed. New technology in diagnosing and treating cardiac conditions is included. Prerequisite or corequisite: Anatomy and physiology course. P/NC option.
399 - Skills for Professional Success (2 S.H.) (Elective)
This course helps the student learn what he/she needs to know to live a successful and harmonious life as a person working in a professional career. The coursework focuses in three areas critical to career success: (1) how to develop the self-confidence and self-esteem essential for personal and professional well-being; (2) how to relate with others in a professional and confident manner to make work more vital, effective, and satisfying every day; (3) how to determine one’s desired professional career path, make career decisions comfortably and efficiently, and achieve professional goals. P/NC option.
400 - Emerging Health Care Systems (2 S.H.) (Generic Option)
Explores American and global health care delivery systems, considering issues and trends in those systems. Prerequisite: Senior standing in major or instructor’s permission. Grade only.
401 - Spirituality in Nursing (2 S.H.) (Elective)
The purpose of this course is to assist students in their understanding of spirituality and spiritual development, and to identify ways of incorporating the essence of spirituality in their nursing practice. Eastern and Western spirituality and practices affecting health are explored. Students examine how society and their own biases have affected their ability to respond to spiritual concerns and needs. Spiritual assessment and specific spiritual interventions are discussed. Students are challenged to explore their own spiritual nature and its impact in their personal and professional lives. P/NC option.
402 - Clinical Pharmacology (3 S.H.) (Elective, RN-to-MS
Professional Pathway)
This course includes principles of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics as a foundation for the use of medications in the clinical management of diseases. Major classes of drugs will be discussed in terms of actions; therapeutic and other effects; adverse, allergic and idiosyncratic reactions; indications and contraindications. The importance of sound diagnostic reasoning in the selection of pharmacological interventions with attention to safety, cost, simplicity, acceptability, and efficacy will be stressed. The responsibilities related to prescribing medications will be emphasized. Prerequisite: Admission to the graduate program in nursing or instructor’s permission. Grade only.
404 - Advanced Pathophysiology (3 S.H.) (Elective, RN-to-MS
Professional Pathway)
Advanced physiology and pathophysiology at the cellular, organic, and systemic level will be explored as a basis for clinical assessment and management by the advanced practice nurses. Integration of function among organ systems will be emphasized. The effect of psychosocial variables on physiologic function will be explored. Prerequisite: Admission to the graduate program in nursing or instructor’s permission. Grade only.
406 - Psychosocial Interventions in Family Care (2 S.H.) (Elective,
RN-to-MS Professional Pathway)
This course explores the role of the advanced practice nurse in addressing the psychosocial needs of the client and family. Focus will be on developing counseling skills for advanced psychosocial assessment and providing culturally sensitive guidance in caring for the client and family during health crisis and acute and chronic illness. Prerequisite: Admission to the graduate program in nursing or instructor’s permission. Grade only.
408 - Advanced Role Seminar (2 S.H.) (Elective, RN-to-MS Professional Pathway)
This course will provide a forum for the explorations of advanced practice role behaviors including collaboration and leadership. Selected theories and frameworks relevant to the various roles will be evaluated. Ethics and diversity issues in nursing and health care will be discussed. Prerequisite: Admission to the graduate program in nursing or instructor’s permission. Grade only.
410 - Theoretical Foundations and Research for Advanced Nursing Practice (4 S.H.) (Elective, RN-to-MS Professional Pathway)
The goal of this course is to provide students with the opportunity to critically analyze existing nursing theories and articulate a personal philosophy of nursing. Students will do an in-depth analysis of a concept. Students will analyze methods and techniques of research and interpret their usefulness for application in clinical practice. Theory and practice will be used to define nursing problems and develop a research proposal. Prerequisite: Admission to the graduate program in nursing or instructor’s permission. Corequisite or prerequisite: STAT 601. Grade only.
411 - Clinical Decisions: Adult Health II (2 S.H.)
(Generic Option)
Theoretical, scientific, developmental, and nursing theories are applied to the care of individual adults/older adults. Students utilize clinical decision-making skills, reflective judgment, and medial-surgical practice standards to plan care for acute and chronic health conditions. Prerequisites: NURS 330, NURS 360, NURS 366. Grade only.
412 - Critical Care Nursing (2-3 S.H.) (Elective)
This course is designed to introduce the student to care for critically ill persons. Emphasis is on rapid assessment, setting priorities, rapid decision-making, and nursing interventions for the critically ill. The 2-credit option has theory only. The 3-credit option has theory and a clinical laboratory experience. The 3-credit option requires the instructor’s permission. Prerequisites: NURS 411, NURS 423, and senior standing or instructor’s permission. P/NC option.
413 - Nursing of Families Experiencing Mental Illness (2 S.H.) (Generic Option)
This course addresses the theoretical basis of nursing care for individuals, families, and groups with emotional concerns or mental illnesses and explores nursing in the psychiatric/mental health setting. Prerequisite: NURS 330. Prerequisite or corequisite: NURS 331. Grade only.
414 - Health Care Policy and Finance (3 S.H.)
(Elective, RN-to-MS Professional Pathway)
This course provides a base for nurse leaders and advanced practice nurses to enter and effectively shape health care policy in the workplace, organizations, community, and government at the state and federal level. Students will develop an understanding of health care financing in the delivery of health care. Prerequisite: Admission to the graduate program in nursing or instructor’s permission. Grade only.
415 - Holistic Caring - (5 S.H.) (RN-to-BS Option)
This course introduces the WSU nursing curriculum and organizing framework to the RN student. Holistic caring is related to critical thinking, teaching-learning, role development, and nursing practice. Prerequisite: Admission to RN-to-BS Option; corequisites: NURS 375, NURS 435, NURS 475. Grade only.
416 - Issues in Gerontology and Geriatrics for the 21st Century
(1-3 S.H.) (Elective)
This course is a series of three consecutive modules of content related to common issues in gerontology and geriatrics. A student may take one, two, or all three modules, and each has the preceding module as a prerequisite. The course focuses on normal aging, theories of aging, social gerontology, and societal effects of an increasing population of older people. The geriatric content will focus on major geriatric syndromes such as immobility, incontinence, instability, iatrogenic illness, and intellectual impairment. Emphasis will be placed on assessment and maintenance of individual competency, independence, and physiological function across clinical settings. Prerequisite: Senior standing in major or instructor’s permission. Grade only.
417 - Health Assessment Techniques (1 S.H.) (Elective)
A guided study review of the basic components of physical assessment and an opportunity for performance evaluation at completion of course. Content relative to obtaining a complete health history and performing a physical examination, with appropriate documentation of each. Designed to ensure readiness for Advanced Practice Health Assessment. Prerequisite: Instructor’s permission. P/NC option.
418 - Computer Applications in Nursing (2 S.H.) (Elective)
This course is designed to provide knowledge of technological modalities presently used to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of patients, planning and monitoring of care, management of information, and data analysis. The application of nursing informatics in nursing research, administration, education, and practice will be explored. Emphasis in this course is on extensive hands-on experience in Microsoft® Windows, word processing, spreadsheet and database applications, presentation software, the Internet, and other computer-related applications. Prerequisite: Sophomore standing. P/NC option.
419 - Advanced Health Promotion (3 S.H.) (Elective, RN-to-MS
Professional Pathway)
Concepts related to health promotion and maintenance are analyzed from theoretical- and research-based perspectives. Using principles of epidemiology, advanced practice nurses identify risk factors for specific populations and examine variables that influence wellness. Interventions for promotion of optimal health are designed with particular consideration for age and cultural differences. A community-based practicum allows the student to explore possibilities for enacting the advanced practice role outside traditional biomedical settings and within the context of families and communities. (2 S.H. seminar; 1 S.H. clinical). Prerequisite: Admission to the graduate program in nursing or instructor’s permission and NURS 410. Grade only.
421 - Nursing of Childbearing Families (2 S.H.) (Generic Option)
The student learns the theoretical basis of nursing care dealing with sexuality, reproductive health promotion, and prenatal through postpartum health promotion. Prerequisite: NURS 330; prerequisite or corequisite: NURS 331. Grade only.
422 - Nursing of Childrearing Families (2 S.H.) (Generic Option)
This course is designed to explore the theoretical basis of nursing care for families with children. Prerequisite: NURS 330; prerequisite or corequisite: NURS 331. Grade only.
423 - Role Development III (4 S.H.) (Generic Option)
This clinical course focuses on the development of the professional nursing roles in restoring, maintaining, and promoting the health of individuals and their families. Students care for selected populations (i.e., mothers, children, adults, those with mental illness) in various settings. 120 hours practicum for semester. This is a companion course to NURS 433, Role Development III Seminar. The core content related to the populations in the student’s site-based experiences must be completed prior to or with this course. Prerequisites: NURS 311, NURS 331, NURS 411. Corequisites: NURS 411, NURS 433. Prerequisites or corequisites depending upon client populations: NURS 471, NURS 413, NURS 421, NURS 422. Grade only.
432 - Principles of OR Nursing (3 S.H.) (Elective)
Students will learn the nurse’s role during the intraoperative phase of patient care. Experiences include circulating and scrub nurse roles. Course includes a clinical laboratory experience. Prerequisites: NURS 300 and NURS 301 or instructor’s permission. P/NC option.
433 - Role Development III Seminar (1 S.H.) (Generic Option)
This seminar course integrates major concepts and professional roles through presentations and discussion of clinical exemplars, nursing research, and nursing literature. Includes Care Group activities. This is a companion course to NURS 423, Role Development III. Corequisite: NURS 423. Grade only.
435 - Holistic Assessment (4 S.H.) (RN-to-BS Option)
This course teaches the student to assess the client and family in a holistic manner. Traditional physical history and assessment of the individual is expanded to include multiple variables. Prerequisite: Admission to RN-to-BS Option; Corequisites: NURS 415 and NURS 475. Grade only.
445 - Management and Leadership (3 S.H.) (RN-to-BS Option)
This course explores the management and leadership roles of the professional nurse, analyzing current nursing practices as well as applying the change process to a nursing situation. Prerequisites: NURS 375, NURS 415, NURS 435, NURS 475. Corequisites: NURS 455, NURS 465, NURS 491. Grade only.
455 - Continuity of Care (4 S.H.) (RN-to-BS Option)
This course explores professional nursing situations or populations involving continuity of care issues: complex acute/chronic care issues; loss; the elderly; and other cultures. Teaching-learning theory and skills are applied to the adult learner. Prerequisites: NURS 375, NURS 415, NURS 435, NURS 475. Corequisites: NURS 445, NURS 465, NURS 491. Grade only.
460 - Cooperative Education in Nursing (3 S.H.) (Elective)
Students receive a planned and supervised clinical experience with a nurse preceptor, integrating formal classroom and clinical study in nursing. This course facilitates a student’s career pathway by emphasizing clinical practice interests. Prerequisite: Completion of second semester of clinical lab courses in the nursing major or instructor’s permission. P/NC option.
465 - Nursing Roles and Health Promotion (4 S.H.)
(RN-to-BS Option)
Focuses on the professional nursing roles of provider of care, advocate, teacher, case manager, change agent, and researcher of individuals and families in a variety of situations. Students will apply communication skills in various interpersonal situations. Sixty hours of site-based experiences. Prerequisites: NURS 375, NURS 415, NURS 435, NURS 475; corequisites: NURS 445, NURS 455, NURS 491. Grade only.
471 - Community Health Care (2 S.H.) (Generic Option)
The purpose of this course is to provide an understanding of the complex and often fragmented community health care system available to clients with chronic health conditions. Students will focus on the health needs of vulnerable groups in the community and identifying the various community health care agencies and programs organized to meet their needs. The functions and roles of public health nursing, predominantly in tertiary prevention will be emphasized in caring for clients with chronic health conditions. Prerequisites: NURS 411, NURS 423. Prerequisite or corequisites: NURS 472, NURS 474. Grade only.
472 - Leadership/Management in Nursing (2 S.H.) (Generic Option)
The purpose of this course is to explore leadership and management theories, attributes, and behaviors within the culture of nursing. These principles will be applied during NURS 474, (Role Development IV) and NURS 484 (Role Development IV Seminar). Prerequisites: NURS 400, NURS 423. Grade only.
474 - Role Development IV (4 S.H.) (Generic Option)
This clinical course focuses on professional role development with special emphasis on the leadership role in caring for groups of selected populations in various settings. 120 hours practicum for semester. This is a companion course to NURS 484 (Role Development IV Seminar). The core content related to the populations in the student’s site-based experiences must be completed prior to or with this course. Prerequisites: NURS 423, NURS 433; corequisites: NURS 484 and NURS 472. Prerequisites or corequisites depending upon client populations: NURS 411, NURS 471, NURS 413, NURS 421, NURS 422. Grade only.
475 - Community Health Nursing (4 S.H.) (RN-to-BS Option)
Focuses on the nursing roles and functions of the community health nurse in maintaining and restoring health of individuals, families, and groups in a variety of situations and settings. Prerequisite: Admission to RN-to-BS Option; prerequisites or corequisites: NURS 375, NURS 415, NURS 435. Grade only.
480 - Holistic Approaches to Health (3 S.H.) (Elective)
This course examines the relationship of the body, mind, and spirit within the field of health, healing, and nursing. Holism, the view that an integrated whole has a reality independent of and greater than the sum of its parts, forms the framework for this inquiry. The concepts of healing, psychophysiology, the transpersonal, the transpersonal self, body-mind-spirit and the nurse as healer will be discussed. Prerequisite: Sophomore standing or instructor’s permission. P/NC option.
484 - Role Development IV Seminar (1 S.H.) (Generic Option)
This seminar course integrates major concepts and professional roles, emphasizing the leadership role, through group activities and application of nursing research. Includes Care Group activities. This is a companion course to NURS 474 (Role Development IV). Corequisite: NURS 474. Grade only.
490 - Independent Study in Nursing (1-3 S.H.) (Elective)
Offers an opportunity for nursing students to do independent study or research in nursing in an area of special interest. Prerequisite: Instructor’s permission. Written objectives and evaluation required. P/NC option.
491 - Capstone Experience in Role Synthesis (3 S.H.)
(Generic & RN- to-BS Options)
Intense preceptor-led, site-based experience designed to encapsulate the essence of baccalaureate professional role development. Ninety hours of practicum for semester including seminar. Prerequisite: Last semester of nursing major or instructor’s permission. Grade only.
492 - Jamaica Studies: Health Care in an Emerging Country
(3 S.H.) (Elective)
This international course will focus on the health care delivery system in Jamaica and the factors which influence the effectiveness of the system. The specific focus will be on the nursing aspects of the system. Students will be exposed to both public and private aspects of nursing. Jamaican experts will present on a variety of topics which influence health care including economics, politics, culture, and society. Prerequisites: Admission to major and instructor’s permission. Grade only.
493 - The Patient’s Voice: Experiences of Illness (2 S.H.) (Elective)
This course is designed to introduce students to contemporary autobiographical accounts of illness, both physical and psychiatric. The content can be applied to the practice of nursing. Prerequisite: Sophomore standing or instructor’s permission. P/NC option.
494 - Contemporary Film: Understanding the Patient’s Experience -
(2 S.H.) (Elective)
Utilizing contemporary film, this course explores the experiences of patients experiencing both physiological and psychiatric illness, and helps students to utilize this information in developing a caring nursing practice. Prerequisite: Sophomore standing or instructor’s permission. P/NC option.
495 - Seminar/Workshop in Nursing (1-3 S.H.) (Elective)
Subject matter of current interest arranged by the Department. Course may be repeated when offered with different content and title. Prerequisite: Admission to major or instructor’s permission. P/NC option.
496 - Feminist Perspectives in Nursing (2 S.H.) (Elective)
This seminar explores the relationship of the feminist movement, feminist theory, and gender issues for nursing history and practice. Prerequisite: Admission to major or instructor’s permission. P/NC option.
497 - Nursing Care of the Aged (3 S.H.) (Elective)
The focus of this course is the bio-psycho-social-spiritual and holistic care of the elderly, given within the nursing process framework. The uniqueness of the aged person is considered as students plan the care and management of altered health states including chronic and high-risk pathophysiological conditions. The course is designed to increase students’ awareness and understanding of the aging process. The strengths and life experience of the aged client are recognized and reinforced to encourage their maximal coping abilities. Course includes a clinical laboratory experience. Prerequisite: Admission to major or instructor’s permission. P/NC option.
498 - Advanced Critical and Progressive Care Nursing (2 S.H.) (Elective for Registered Nurses Only)
This course is specifically designed for Registered Nurses currently caring for adults in critical or progressive/acute care nursing units. Course content is designed to meet knowledge requirements for practice and/or certification in critical care or progressive care nursing and as such, promotes continuing excellence in the nursing profession. Course content will be based on topic and certification blueprints established by the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Corporation. The emphasis of learning activities will (1) address clinical judgment in the eight major categories including cardiovascular, pulmonary, endocrine, hematology/immunology, neurology, gastrointestinal, renal, and multisystem; and (2) explore concepts of professional caring and ethical practice in nursing. National certification exam is an option for specific sections of the course. Offered spring semester. Grade or P/NC option.