This foundational nursing course introduces students to the history of the nursing profession and examines the current issues facing the practice of nursing and healthcare. Concepts discussed include but are not limited to the nursing process, safety, the role of the licensed practical nurse, evidence-based practice, communication skills and ethical and legal responsibilities of the nurse. During the course students are introduced to the importance of the application of critical thinking and clinical judgement skills for safe patient care. The course is complemented by a structured supervised laboratory setting where students apply concepts learned in theory and demonstrate the psychomotor skills needed to care for patients in the clinical setting. Clinical experiences will be completed in either long- term or sub-acute health care settings.
By the end of the course, the student will be able to:
- Review the rich history and current issues facing the nursing profession.
- Identify the role and responsibilities of the licensed practical nurse as a valued member of the health care team.
- Use the principles of therapeutic communication with peers, patients, families, and the members of the healthcare team.
- Apply the nursing process to provide patient centered care for patients with stable and predictable health outcomes.
- Define the aging process in terms of social, psychological, and biological principles.
- Identify the physiological, psychosocial, and spiritual needs of patients with commonly occurring health alterations.
- Demonstrate the use of the best current evidence to guide decision making to provide safe nursing care.
- Apply the legal and ethical principles that impact decision making as a nurse.
- Use critical thinking and clinical judgment to ensure the safe delivery of nursing care.
- Demonstrate a caring approach with patients that respects their values, beliefs, and culture.