This course is designed to provide the foundations for critically analyzing ethical dilemmas in nursing practice. Ethical theories will be explored and critically examined, with a focus on their application to practice. Moral developmental theories will be discussed in light of the current debate regarding gender and racial disparities in decision for ethical practice from a systems theory perspective. The course will draw on students’ clinical experiences to promote moral reflection and personal values clarifications with regard to contemporary health-care challenges. The course will examine current and emerging issues as influenced by emerging technological, clinical, political, legal, socio-economic, and fiscal factors.

This course provides an overview of informatics and other technologies used to enhance and improve patient care. The application of communication technology to integrate and coordinate care is examined. Data management and electronic health records are explored. Access to current literature through search processes using technology is linked to evidence-based health education and other patient care interventions.

This course provides an introduction to the role of spirituality in nursing practice. The course will analyze the paradigm shifts that have occurred in the history of professional nursing regarding the place of spirituality in professional nursing practice. It explores the phenomenon of spirituality in health and illness across the lifespan and from the perspectives of multiple religious and cultural world views. The course offers students an opportunity to reflect on their understanding and experience of spirituality and how spirituality influences personal decision making. The applicability of current research and specific nursing theories to the practice of spiritually sensitive nursing care is also addressed. Emphasis is placed on personal spirituality as a resource for the provision of nursing care that respects the diverse religious traditions and spiritualities of clients.

This course explores medication errors and other health-care errors that threaten patient safety. The impact of health-care errors is examined from the perspectives of consumers, health-care providers, professional organizations, legislators, hospitals, and other health-care delivery agencies. Systems improvement initiatives are investigated with the goal of preventing health-care errors. Interdisciplinary and collaborative roles of consumers, legal counsel, and health-care providers, including nurses, pharmacists, and physicians are emphasized.

This course examines human caring and nurses’ contributions to the health and healing of the people served. It emphasizes the history, research, and aesthetics of caring from the perspectives of nursing and other disciplines. Emphasis is placed on critique of caring research, scholarly and aesthetic writing on caring, and resources available to study caring. Intentional caring and self-care are also analyzed.

A cross-disciplinary seminar that introduces students to the latest research technology and databases for advanced work in their major. Emphasis on research and communication skills, including oral presentations and written reports and papers. An individualized paper or written project, approved by the student’s department, will be completed by each participant in the seminar.

This course examines the principles of school nursing applied to children with special education and health-related needs. Students explore the practical applications of laws, rules, and regulations that form the basis for accommodating the needs of exceptional children. Emphasis is placed on identifying common health problems and disabilities, nursing care management, and interdisciplinary decision-making. This course addresses Knowledge of Content (IA-ID), Performances, and Professionalism (IIIA-IIID) specified in the School Nurse Guidelines of the Pennsylvania Department of Education Standards.

This course provides the student with a practicum in school nursing to meet the entry criteria for school nurse certification in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and meets Standards IV, V, VI, and VII of the Pennsylvania Department of Education General Standards and School Nurse Guidelines I.A., I.B., I.C., I.D., II, III.B., III.C., and III.D. Practicum students will demonstrate the school nurse role under the supervision of a certified school nurse mentor. Students applying to take course will present a dossier detailing previous work experience and professional academic experience for evaluation by the School of Nursing.

This course explores the relationships among research, theory, and practice. Students appraise scholarly literature and evaluate its quality and applicability to clinical practice. A critical review of the literature guides the evolution of a clinically focused research question. Students investigate research methods and standards and approaches of evidence-based practice. Various research designs are contrasted.

This course is a continuation of Research for Evidence-Based Practice I (NUR 604). Students develop research proposals, generated by research questions and the literature review, completed in NUR 604. They also examine research design, treatment of variables, sampling, measurement theory, probability theory, qualitative and quantitative analysis, and the use of the computer in data analysis. Ethical and legal principles related to the conduct of nursing research will be discussed. Students employ evidence-based practice strategies to inform clinical practice decisions.

This course examines the evolution of advanced education nursing in the context of changing health-care delivery systems. Students explore health-care policy development and examine systems of delivering patient care in relation to financial, ethical, legal, socio-cultural, legislative-political, and professional concerns. Program development, informatics, fiscal management of health-care services, budgeting, and reimbursement issues are emphasized. Students practice interdisciplinary networking and coalition-building skills in leadership roles extending beyond the traditional health-care environment.

In this course, students develop cultural competence regarding the role of the advanced practice nurse by meeting the health-care needs of diverse groups and populations. Health promotion, disease prevention, resource utilization, and health education responsibilities are examined. Students utilize basic epidemiological concepts, group theories, and needs-assessment approaches for vulnerable populations. They explore the varying needs of diverse groups in community settings through a cultural blueprint.

This course introduces students to key concepts, models, and empirical findings in the field of health economics. Students examine the markets for health insurance, health care services, and prescription drugs, along with the labor markets for health care professionals. Students also consider the efficiency and equity aspects of the U.S. health care system and health care systems in other countries. 

This is the first graduate nursing education course in a three-course sequence designed to prepare the master’s-level nurse for beginning teaching roles in nursing education, staff development, and public/ health education. The course explores the historical and philosophical underpinnings of education and their relevance to the education of nurses and the public. Emphasis is given to nursing education theory and the critical analysis of theories of learning and teaching strategies as well as the exploration of current issues in nursing education, nursing practice, and public/health education.

This course builds on the content of NUR 610 and focuses on the way in which the components of the teaching/learning process are organized in order to meet the needs of the learner—nursing student, client/patient and family, or practicing nurse. The emphasis in this course is on the application of models and strategies in any classroom or clinical setting where nurses are responsible for others’ learning.

This course provides a comprehensive overview of health care informatics practice from an interdisciplinary approach. Students explore how informatics contributes to the quality, safety, maintenance of standards, and information security of health care services in the United States. The value of informatics to the improvement of care delivery environments in health care and community agencies is explored. Students integrate and apply information from health-related databases for clinical decision-making. The influence of informatics on decision-making and planning in health care systems is analyzed along with the various roles of health care informatics specialists.

This course explores theoretical perspectives on individuals' health within the family system, emphasizing vulnerable and underserved populations. Societal-level patterns of aging are investigated, including issues affecting family systems at the national and global levels. Family assessment, human development, and life transitions theory are introduced to prepare students to provide anticipatory guidance and advance care planning. Family responses to and coping mechanisms associated with acute, chronic, and terminal illness are scrutinized. Principles of cultural competence and leadership/change agency are explored.

This course addresses the health assessment of individuals across their lifespan using a framework of physiologic, psychological, socio-cultural, and physical examination data. Students explore history-taking methods, principles of physical assessment, and concepts of clinical diagnosis to determine patients' potential and actual health problems. The course enables students to develop skills necessary to evaluate the comprehensive health status of individuals through assessment of normal and abnormal physical findings. Students combine principles of nursing and other related sciences to analyze clinical problems and provide safe, competent patient care. Students advance in theoretical knowledge, clinical judgment, differential diagnosis, and decision-making skills.

This course expands the study of the actions and effects of drugs in the human system across an individual's lifespan. Students synthesize legal and professional nursing responsibilities related to pharmacotherapy for health promotion, pathological syndromes, and clinical disorders in advanced practice nursing roles. Students appraise principles of drug therapy, mechanisms of action, and selection of appropriate pharmacological agents in clinical prescribing.

This course integrates physiological principles, clinical manifestations, and advanced nursing practice implications with the clinical decision-making process. Common pathological syndromes and disorders are explored across an individual's lifespan. Students interpret physiologic, pathophysiologic, psychological, and sociocultural data utilizing information to formulate culturally appropriate advanced nursing practice. Students focus on differentiating normal, variations of normal and abnormal changes of syndromes, and constellations of symptoms with a selection of pertinent diagnostic testing.

This course, grounded in the rapidly advancing science of genetics/genomics field, emphasizes a practice-based approach. Professional practice competencies are applied to a disease/condition, including risk assessment, genetic education, counseling, testing, results interpretation, and clinical management. Legal, ethical, and social issues are examined. The course incorporates "need to know" approaches that foster integration of genetics/genomics into nursing practice.

This course explores biopsychosocial and cultural processes in relation to health, illness, and healing in diverse human systems, especially those from vulnerable and under-served populations. Students evaluate significant health problems that represent leading causes of mortality and morbidity for adults from early adulthood through senescence. Evidence- based nursing interventions for adult and geriatric patients with varied health problems ranging from primary to acute concerns are evaluated from the Clinical Nurse Specialist's caring perspective. The National Association for Clinical Nurse Specialists' (NACNS) Statement on Clinical Nurse Specialist Practice and Education, the Clinical Nurse Specialist Core Competencies, and Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist Competencies provide the role context for the course with adult-gerontology population content provided using relevant resources to achieve nationally validated competencies with an emphasis on quality improvement, outcomes management, research, and evidence-based practice.

This course is a continuation of NUR 620 which explores biopsychosocial and cultural processes in relation to health and healing in human systems especially those from vulnerable and under-served populations. Students evaluate significant health problems which represent the leading causes of mortality and morbidity for adults in the United States. Nursing interventions for adults with these problems are evaluated from the Clinical Nurse Specialist's caring perspective and from the service
orientations of culturally competent health promotion, disease prevention, health maintenance, and health restoration. The National Association for Clinical Nurse Specialists (NACNS) practice and education standards are emphasized. (Under revision)

This course provides advanced knowledge of the neurophysiological processes, risks, benefits, and outcomes of the use of psychotropic drugs in mental health practice. Scientific foundations and best practices for the clinical application of medication in treating mental disorders across the lifespan are discussed. Pharmacotherapy for promoting health and treating clinical disorders in the advanced practice nursing role is discussed in the context of the legal and professional guidelines for prescribing. Students synthesize knowledge of drug therapy and metabolism and the use of genetic assays in the selection of pharmacological agents in clinical prescribing.

This seminar and preceptored practicum course is designed to integrate theory, practice, and research as the basis for advanced clinical practice for clinical nurse specialists (CNS). Nursing care needs of adults and their responses to health and illness are explored within the context of health promotion, maintenance, and restoration health-care services. Clinical practica are structured according to the needs of the graduate student. The seminars provide a forum for discussion of the roles of the advanced practitioner. Practica and seminars enhance knowledge, skills, and attitudes relevant to advanced nursing practice in a variety of settings. This course requires 250 hours of clinical practicum.

A continuation of NUR 625 in which graduate students explore the needs and responses of diverse healthy and ill adults during preceptored clinical practica and seminars. The course views theory and research as foundations of nursing practice. Advanced nursing practice is examined within the context of health promotion, maintenance, and restoration services. Students investigate the characteristics and functions of the clinical nurse specialist role in relation to clinical problems. Practica are structured according to the needs of graduate students. The seminars provide a forum for discussion of various roles and clinical issues of advanced nursing practice in clinical nurse specialist roles in diverse settings. The practica and seminars enable students to expand knowledge, skills, and attitudes relevant to culturally competent advanced nursing practice for diverse clients. The practice and education standards of the National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists (NACNS) are integrated. This course requires 250 hours of clinical practicum.

This foundational course introduces students to the roles and responsibilities of the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) to meet the needs of clients across the lifespan, with focus on vulnerable populations. Legal and ethical guidelines for advanced practice are reviewed. The course also introduces basic competencies in therapeutic communication and conducting comprehensive psychiatric assessments on clients from diverse cultures and across age groups. Students will draw upon diagnostic criteria outlined in the current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5).

This course focuses on treatment models for prevention, intervention, and psychoeducation for selected acute and chronic psychiatric conditions of clients across the lifespan. Students review legal and ethical guidelines for advanced practice, with special attention to vulnerable populations. The needs of clients with co-occurring psychiatric and physical disorders and neurocognitive disorders are also addressed.

This course focuses on family level interventions, group therapy, and crisis intervention. Approaches also incorporate evidence-based complementary and alternative healthcare interventions. Examination of the consultation liaison role, the benefits and challenges to interprofessional practice, and the collaborative functions of the PMHNP in integrated medical practice are included. Issues related to independent professional practice are also addressed.

This course addresses clinical decision-making, management of patient care, evidence-based practice, and outcomes management. Students participate in the process of developing best practice guidelines for promoting, maintaining, and restoring health. Quality assurance, safety and risk reduction will be examined. Students begin to develop a leadership portfolio.

The purpose of this seminar is to expand the student’s awareness of the historical role of nursing as a social response to the health needs of the American public. The changes in nursing itself will be viewed through the context of American political, economic, and social force. The internal forces of nursing will be analyzed as responses to those events. The philosophies of nursing leaders and other leaders and groups will be analyzed. Emphasis will be given to the interplay between societal forces and American nursing practice, education, and administration.

This course investigates knowledge of complex health care systems including health care delivery models, financing, organization of health care systems, legislation affecting health care, and the role of professional nursing organizations in the health care environment. Students analyze the role of the CNL in health care systems.

This course provides students the opportunity to participate in a leadership practicum with a mentor from a practice setting. Students complete their leadership portfolio that includes a capstone project demonstrating implementation of the leadership skills they have developed during their course of study.

This seminar course introduces students to health policy, program planning, and evaluation in the public health context, especially as they relate to vulnerable and under-served populations. Special emphasis is placed on students’ strengthening and developing their skills in policy formulation and implementation. The social, economic, legal, ethical, cultural, and political environments that influence public policy, planning, and evaluation are explored. Students acquire familiarity with strategies for health planning and evaluation through selected applied learning activities.

This course introduces methods of analysis, concepts and nursing strategies related to improving individual, aggregate and population health. Epidemiological concepts are examined with emphasis on determinants of health, disease distribution, environmental influences, cultural diversity, health promotion, clinical prevention and disaster preparedness. Epidemiological, biostatistical, environmental data and statistical measures are used to integrate, analyze and evaluate nursing science practice and outcomes within the dimensions of population health.

Nurses in advanced practice are increasingly called upon to participate in and provide leadership to groups of patients, families, and professional staff. Strong leadership in-group process can promote quality health care. To examine group process, course topics will include (1) theories of group development and operation, (2) group properties and process, (3) the synergistic nature of groups, and (4) the function of group leadership. The group theories and processes will be examined in light of support groups, patient education groups, staff-work groups, and committees.

This course focuses on the practice of nursing administration and provides students with the opportunity to critically examine the role of the nurse administrator. Students examine theories and principles regarding management of organizational systems within diverse health-care settings. Delivery of nursing care and services in relation to structure, process, and outcomes within small and large organizational systems is emphasized. Organizational design, administrative processes, and measurement of organizational effectiveness within nursing systems are emphasized. The professional, research, managerial, leadership, and change agency aspects of the nurse administrator role are explored in relation to the practice of nursing administration.

The emphasis of this course is on the role of the nurse administrator in developing and managing human resources within the health care delivery system. Theories and principles related to the development of an organizational climate that fosters staff satisfaction and productivity are explored. The Magnet Program is discussed and reviewed. Principles of personnel administration, employee relations, legal guidelines and collective bargaining are examined throughout the course.

This is the first of two preceptored field experiences designed to provide the student with the opportunity to integrate administration theory, operations, and research in a variety of health-care settings in order to positively influence the quality of patient care. With faculty guidance, students select and participate in a variety of experiences that focus on nursing management within diverse health-care settings. Seminars provide students with experiences in developing the skills necessary for the nurse administrator to influence change, to work with teams, and to manage resources. Trends, ethics, standards, and research in the area of nursing management are also examined. Emphasis is placed on the student's articulation of the philosophical and theoretical basis of the practicum issues and on the development, refinement, and evaluation of effective management strategies. Clinical practica are structured according to the individual student's knowledge and skill needs. This course requires 125 hours of clinical practicum.

In this preceptored field experience, students select opportunities to participate in strategic and financial management operations in a variety of settings. Seminars examine the impact of prospective payment, managed care, and uncompensated care on health-care organizations and nursing systems, especially those serving vulnerable and under-served populations. Students explore intrapreneurial and entrepreneurial roles of nursing administrators. Seminars provide students with the opportunity to share and process weekly practicum experiences and to receive feedback from students and faculty colleagues. Students articulate the philosophical and theoretical basis of practicum issues and the development, refinement, and evaluation of effective management strategies to effect positive changes in patient-care delivery systems. Students are encouraged to seek practica in alternative care delivery sites such as, but not limited to, Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), primary-care health centers, assisted living centers, nursing homes, and hospitals and with diverse client populations, especially the vulnerable and underserved. This course requires 125 hours of clinical practicum.
*Required MBA courses are previously listed and described elsewhere in this catalog.

This is the first of two courses designed to provide the theoretical foundations necessary for advanced public health nursing practice. Health behaviors and change strategies will be discussed as the bases for effective public health interventions. A variety of community assessment models from nursing, public health, public policy, and the social sciences will be examined. Current writings from the humanities provide an opportunity to apply and critique assessment models. Content includes the scope and standards of practice for public health nursing and exploration of significant public health problems.

This is the second of two courses designed to provide the theoretical foundations necessary for advanced public health nursing practice. Emphasis is placed on intervention and evaluation strategies. Content includes public health services models that support primary, secondary, and tertiary health-care initiatives both in traditional and non-traditional settings. Financial, ethical, cultural, and political factors in aggregate interventions are explored. Models for intervention and evaluation from nursing and other disciplines are analyzed for their utility in advanced practice nursing. Popular works of non-fiction are used to highlight the benefits and limitations of theoretical models in public health nursing. The synthesis of ideas, models, and research from a variety of sources are emphasized as a critical component of public health nursing.

This seminar and preceptored practicum course integrates theory, practice, and applied research. Through seminars and clinical applications, students develop the initial phases of a community health project with targeted populations. Emphasis is placed on leadership roles that optimize the
health of families, groups, and communities through an assessment of the health status of an aggregate or community and a proposed plan of action based on priority needs and resources of the target population. The final phases of this project (implementation, evaluation, and
recommendations) will be completed in the Spring Semester (NUR 656). The course builds on public health principles and culturally competent interventions engaging at-risk urban populations. Healthy People 2010 guides the student's advanced practice opportunities through collaborative, multidisciplinary, client-oriented work in community settings. This course requires 256 hours of clinical practicum.

This seminar and preceptored practice course further integrates theory, practice, and program evaluation perspectives into advanced practice public health nursing. The course supports the implementation and evaluation phases of the student's ongoing public health project/practicum. Emphasis is placed on expanding professional and community roles, responsibilities and requisite skills to sustain and promote population-focused health within the framework of Healthy People 2010. The course focuses on culturally competent public health nursing interventions and leadership opportunities in diverse urban settings. Innovative health communication, education, and outreach strategies addressing public health needs in the 21st century are essential components of the course. This course requires 256 hours of clinical practicum.

This course focuses on clinical practice with clients with mental health conditions in accordance with the role expectations and scope of practice of the advanced practice psychiatric nurse. Students apply principles of legal and ethical guidelines for advanced practice by conducting comprehensive psychiatric assessments on clients from diverse cultures and across age groups. Students utilize appropriate assessment tools and protocols to develop primary and differential diagnoses according to the diagnostic criteria outlined in the current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5).

Students provide care to clients with mental health conditions according to the role expectations and scope of practice of the advanced practice psychiatric nurse. Students practice in accordance with legal and ethical guidelines for advanced practice in conducting comprehensive psychiatric assessments on clients from diverse cultures and across age groups. The course focuses on development of skills in psychotherapeutic intervention, including pharmacological and alternative and complementary health therapies. The needs of clients with co-occurring psychiatric and physical disorders and neurocognitive disorders are also addressed.

Students will provide care to clients with mental health conditions according to the role expectations and scope of practice of the advanced practice psychiatric nurse. Students will practice in accordance with legal and ethical guidelines for advanced practice in conducting comprehensive psychiatric assessments on clients from diverse cultures and across age groups. Students demonstrate competence in psychotherapeutic intervention, including pharmacological and alternative and complementary health therapies. The needs of clients with co-occurring psychiatric and physical disorders and neurocognitive disorders are also addressed.

This course focuses on the primary care health concerns of diverse young adults, adults, and older adults and facilitates student development in the nurse practitioner role. Using national health-care guidelines and professional standards, students assess health behaviors, plan and implement culturally appropriate and evidence-based practice strategies for health promotion and disease prevention, and evaluate health outcomes. Health maintenance and health restoration are explored in light of contemporary health-care environments, especially for underserved and vulnerable populations. Patient education and counseling techniques relevant to advanced nursing practice are emphasized.

This course focuses on theories, principles, and processes necessary to diagnose and manage primary care health problems of young adults, adults, and older adults. Evidence-based practice standards and professional ethics are emphasized as students acquire knowledge necessary to evaluate and manage diverse patient populations with complex primary care health needs ranging from acuity to chronicity, including palliative and end-of-life care. Students explore health risks and behaviors, health promotion strategies, disease prevention, and health restoration in the context of contemporary health-care environments. Legal, ethical, financial, and cultural concepts related to advanced-practice nursing and professional credentialing are integrated. Patient education and counseling techniques relevant to the advanced-practice nursing role are addressed.

This course presents the principles of primary care, emphasizing health promotion, and disease prevention for both the pregnant and non- pregnant woman. Pathophysiologic alterations will be addressed as well as developmental stages, family, cultural, and societal influences. Primary care management of common health problems of adult women will be discussed. Students will develop increased clinical reasoning skills with the goal of managing the female patient in the ambulatory care setting.

This course presents the principles of primary care, emphasizing health promotion, and disease prevention for the child from birth to adolescence. Pathophysiologic alterations will be addressed as well as developmental stages, family, cultural, and societal influences. Primary care management of common health problems of children will be discussed. Students will develop increased clinical reasoning skills with the goal of managing the pediatric patient in the ambulatory care setting.

This seminar course focuses on the knowledge and skills necessary to provide safe and effective primary care to young adults, adults, and older adults. Seminars focus on the application of physiologic, pharmacologic, and psychosocial principles in the professional role of the nurse practitioner within the health-care delivery system. Students integrate research-based knowledge of health assessment, health promotion, and disease prevention, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and family theory into preceptored clinical experiences in primary care settings. Course assignments focus on the process of clinical reasoning for accurate diagnosis and management of illness. (256 preceptored clinical hours)

This course allows students to further develop and refine necessary skills for the adult-gerontology nurse practitioner. Students build on competencies achieved in NUR 665 and continue to integrate evidence from advanced practice nursing and related disciplines in classroom and clinical activities to prepare for the role of the nurse practitioner. Students apply knowledge of diagnostic and therapeutic interventions to provide safe and effective health care in the delivery of primary care. (256 peceptored clinical hours).

This course allows students to further develop and refine necessary skills for the family nurse practitioner. Students build on competencies achieved in NUR 665 and continue to integrate evidence from advanced-practice nursing and related disciplines in classroom and clinical activities to prepare for the role of the nurse practitioner. Students apply knowledge of diagnostic and therapeutic interventions to provide safe and effective health care in the delivery of primary care. (128 peceptored clinical hours).

This course provides the opportunity for further development and refinement of primary care skills and clinical judgment of the nurse practitioner student. Students build on beginning competencies to develop greater skill in primary care activities with the pregnant and non pregnant woman through integration of theory and principles of nursing and other related fields and supervised clinical activities. Clinical reasoning skills are refined through clinical practice, case presentations, mentoring and role modeling. Students apply evidence-based research related to pharmacology and clinical management theory and techniques to effectively manage health and disease within diverse primary care settings. Student presentations develop the process of clinical reasoning for accurate diagnosis and management of illness and management of pregnant and non pregnant women.

This course provides the opportunity for further development and refinement of primary care skills and clinical judgment of the nurse practitioner student. Students build on beginning competencies to develop greater skill in primary care activities with the pediatric client through integration of theory and principles of nursing and other related fields and supervised clinical activities. Clinical reasoning skills are refined through clinical practice, case presentations, mentoring and role modeling. Students apply evidence-based research related to pharmacology and clinical management theory and techniques to effectively manage health and disease within diverse primary care settings. Student presentations develop the process of clinical reasoning for accurate diagnosis and management of illness and management of pediatric client.

This orientation course is required for all students enrolled in the nurse anesthesia track. It is designed to familiarize students with department management, policies, and procedures, the history of nurse anesthesia, the role of the anesthesiologist as an anesthesia care team member, the history of anesthesia, and issues related to anesthesia administration. In addition, this course acquaints students with the physical plant, surgical suite, and critical care area. Program requirements and accreditation requirements of the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs are presented. A broad field orientation to clinical practice includes legal implications of anesthesia care, preoperative patient assessment, airway management, and patient positioning. This course provides the basis for meeting the anesthesia-related needs of culturally diverse patients in acute-care settings. Topics included are: (1) Orientation to Anesthesia Department, Care Plans, and Records, (2) Orientation to the Operating Room, (3) Preoperative Patient Assessment, (4) Substance Abuse, Application to Nurse Anesthesia Practice, (5) Airway Management, (6) Patient Positioning, and (7) Basic Principles of Anesthesia Practice.

Nurse Anesthesia students are presented with specific anatomic and physiologic considerations of the cardiovascular, respiratory, and fluid/electrolyte systems. Cellular physiology as it applies to Nurse Anesthesia practice is presented. Cardiovascular segments provide monitoring modalities, cardiovascular pharmacology, and the effects of the anesthetic agents on the cardiovascular system. The respiratory segment provides an in-depth examination of anatomy, physiology, respiratory reflexes, lung volumes, respiratory sounds, rates, and types as they apply to anesthesia. Pathophysiologic disease processes associated with culturally diverse patient populations are presented and clinically applied. Topics included are (1) Cell Physiology, (2) Respiratory I, and (3) Cardiovascular I.

The purpose of this course is to help students understand the actions and effects of specific anesthetic medications on the human system. Students analyze the nursing responsibilities related to anesthetic pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics for the advanced practice nurse. Students study principles of drug therapy, mechanisms of action, and selection of pharmacologic agents specific to anesthesia practice. Regional anesthetics, intravenous and inhalational anesthetic agents, and their clinical applications are incorporated. In addition, students examine pharmacologic considerations associated with diverse patient populations, especially those in urban medically under-served areas. Topics included are (1) Introduction to Pharmacology, (2) Regional Anesthesia, and (3) Inhalational Anesthesia.

This course introduces the student to the principles of inorganic chemistry that are applicable to anesthesia practice. The core portion of this course encompasses the critical elements of design, purpose, operation, and safety principles associated with anesthesia machine use. The FDA checklist is incorporated into the didactic portion of the curriculum. Topics included are (1) Anesthesia Machine and (2) Patient Monitoring.

The purpose of the course is to expand students’ pharmacologic knowledge base related specifically to nurse anesthesia practice while continuing to build on the principles of NUR 683. Students continue to build on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics related to local anesthetics, muscle relaxants, and intravenous anesthetic agents. The course continues to focus on the pharmacologic considerations and pathophysiologic disease processes of persons in medically under-served areas and with high-risk urban populations. Topics included are (1) Local Anesthesia, (2) Muscle Relaxants, and (3) Intravenous Anesthesia Agents.

The anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems are expanded upon from NUR 682. In addition, the physiology, anatomy, and pathophysiology of the hepatic, endocrine, excretory, and autonomic nervous systems are presented. The effects of the inhalational and intravenous anesthetic agents on the hepatic, renal, and endocrine systems are featured with a focus on biotransformation and excretory processes. Pathophysiologic disease processes specific to culturally and racially diverse patient populations are applied. Topics included are (1) Cardiovascular II, (2) Respiratory II, (3) Hepatic System, (4) Endocrine System, (5) Excretory System, and (6) Autonomic Nervous System.

The physical laws of physics as they apply to anesthesia practice are presented. Organic and inorganic chemistry principles as they apply to nurse anesthesia practice are examined. Electrical safety and electrical principles related to the physical environment and surgical suite are integrated into this dynamic course.

An in-depth presentation of the respective anesthesia subspecialties is presented. Surgical subspecialties explored include obstetrics, pediatrics, CT surgery, geriatrics, neuroanesthesia, trauma, burns, orthopedics, ENT, plastic surgery, GI surgery, pain management, laser surgery, and hematology. Specific techniques, monitoring devices, complications, physiologic alterations, and anesthesia provider considerations associated with each subspecialty are extensively reviewed and applied clinically. Subspecialty practice applicable to the medically under-served is included in conjunction with cultural issues that affect health care in the urban setting. Topics included are (1) Obstetrics, (2) Pediatrics, (3) Cardiothoracic, (4) Geriatrics, (5) Neuroanesthesia, (6) Trauma/Burns, (7) Orthopedics, (8) ENT/Plastics, (9) GI Surgery, (10) Pain Management, (11) Laser Surgery, and (12) Hematology.

This culminating course is designed to prepare students for the professional responsibilities they will assume as nurse anesthetists following graduation. Medical-legal considerations associated with nurse anesthesia are incorporated and selected medical malpractice cases are analyzed. This course provides students with the ability to evaluate journal clubs and prepare professional reports for presentation. Topics included are (1) Medical-Legal Considerations in Anesthesia Practice, (2) Seminar Workshop, Educational Meetings, Morbidity, and Mortality Conferences, and (3) Journal Club.

This clinical practicum is developed to allow the student to gain exposure to the induction, maintenance, and emergence phases of anesthesia. Students focus on pre-anesthesia assessment, anesthesia induction techniques, emergence, and proper postprocedure care. This is a Pass/Fail course. Objectives included are (1) Room Preparation, (2) Pre-Anesthetic Assessment, (3) Anesthesia Record, (4) Induction, (5) Maintenance, Emergence, and Post-operative Periods, and (6) Interpersonal Behavior.

This clinical capstone course is the final culmination of the student’s clinical experience. Senior nurse anesthesia students utilize their didactic preparation and clinical anesthesia foundation from the preceding six semesters. Topics included are (1) Room Preparation, (2) Preanesthetic induction, (3) Anesthesia Record, (4) Induction, (5) Maintenance, Embergence, and Post-operative rounds, and (6) Interpersonal Behavior.

This course examines social policy, power, and political behaviors directed at changing health care and community systems to benefit populations. The contributions of researchers, policy-makers, analysts, health care providers, and federal, state, and local governments to local, regional, national and global policies are explored. Social, human development and environmental problems are examined in relation to local and broader public policies.

This course introduces methods of inquiry and analysis as a guide to examining the development of a topic of interest. Concept analysis, theory-guided research, role development, information and clinical practice technologies and historical context are topics to be explored. Nursing interventions and nursing research are systematically critiqued to inform advanced nursing practice. Students initiate a portfolio using self-evaluation with exemplars to demonstrate progress toward meeting doctoral level competencies.

This course is designed to provide a foundation in ethics as it applies to the health professions. Moral development theories, ethical approaches, principles, and professional codes of ethics are critically examined with a focus on their application to practice and ethical decision-making processes used in health care. The course will draw on students' clinical experiences and use a case study approach to promote moral reflection and personal values clarification. The demand for moral agency and ethical leadership, given a profession's responsibilities to society, is studied. The course highlights the ethical competence needed by health care professionals, individually and collectively, to respond to contemporary and emerging ethical challenges in our pluralistic society.

This course provides an overview of commonly used statistical methods employed in evidence-based nursing practice and interprofessional health care practices. The use of data is emphasized as it is influential in making decisions to treat, in developing policies within acute and chronic health care delivery organizations and systems, and in evaluating health care quality, processes, and outcomes. Students critique data analyses presented in selected published research studies across health disciplines. Experience is attained in data entry and data analysis using IBM®-SPSS Statistics. 

(60 clinical hours; 30 hours didactic)
Students analyze patient safety strategies and programs associated with improved patient care outcomes in various community and health care agency settings. Students explore health care errors and the impact of errors on patient, family, and health care delivery systems. Techniques of process improvement are applied to outcomes management.

Students examine nursing research as applied to the profession's clinical nursing problems by examining the major parts, processes, and principles of quality investigations. They critique studies on a clinical problem and compare research designs, purposes, and methods. The fit of data analysis approaches with research questions and methods is also evaluated.

This course prepares the student for entry into clinical practice by presenting fundamental concepts of the scientific foundation and standards of nurse anesthesia practice. Various techniques of administration of anesthesia are introduced and discussed. The provision of individualized, culturally competent, safe and effective anesthesia care to patients throughout the life span is emphasized. The knowledge and technical skills required for success in the clinical phase of the curriculum are presented in the classroom setting and in the simulation laboratory. Professionalism, collegiality, patient advocacy, and dedication to life-long learning are fostered. Detailed discussions of stress management and promotion of student wellness are included.

This course offers a comprehensive study of the principles of physics and chemistry that underpin evidence based anesthesia practice. Hands on experiences in the simulation laboratory enhance instruction concerning the technology and equipment commonly used in anesthesia practice. Patient safety and provider wellness are addressed with emphasis on promoting a safe operating room environment.

This course expands upon the knowledge gained in prior pharmacology courses. The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of anesthetic agents will be addressed comprehensively. Potential adverse effects, drug interactions and appropriate interventions will be discussed. Individual patient variations, age, gender, morbidity and other variables that impact drug selection and dosing will be explored. Students will develop strategies for the safe administration of intravenous, inhalation and injected anesthetic agents to a diverse patient population.

This course expands upon knowledge gained in prior physiology and pathophysiology courses. Normal physiology as it relates to the practice of anesthesia is extensively discussed. The anesthetic implications of various comorbidities are explored in depth. Common pathological conditions are discussed in a systematic approach, focusing on indicated anesthetic considerations. Management of potential adverse reactions to anesthetics and surgery related to comorbidities will be analyzed. Students will develop strategies to optimize patients' conditions and to synthesize patient centered anesthesia management plans, supported by evidence.

This course offers a comprehensive study of the principles of physics and chemistry that underpin evidence based anesthesia practice. Hands on experiences in the simulation laboratory enhance instruction concerning the technology and equipment commonly used in anesthesia practice. Patient safety and provider wellness are addressed with emphasis on promoting a safe operating room environment.

This course applies the scientific underpinnings of prior courses to the anesthetic management of patients undergoing neurosurgical, cardiovascular, and thoracic procedures. Common and uncommon procedures are discussed, and students develop evidence supported, patient centered anesthesia management plans for patients.

This course includes a detailed study of the anatomy, physiology and pharmacology relevant to regional anesthesia. The role of regional anesthesia in the management of acute and chronic pain is explored. Techniques of administration and standards of safe anesthetic practice are emphasized. Hands-on workshops, low, medium and high fidelity simulation labs and case discussions will complement traditional teaching methods.

This course applies previously gained scientific knowledge to a comprehensive study of the anesthetic management of obstetrical and pediatric patients. The anatomic, physiologic, pathological and psychosocial characteristics of obstetrics and pediatric patients are applied to anesthetic management. Research evidence and best practice recommendations are utilized to plan safe and effective anesthetic care for pregnant women, and pediatric patients from premature neonates to adolescents, undergoing elective and/or emergent surgery.

This second clinical practicum course challenges students to perform at an advanced beginner level to integrate evidence based and patient specific anesthetic management plans for a diverse patient population across the lifespan, implementing anesthetic care, analyzing patient response, evaluating outcomes and revising management plans as indicated. Technical, cognitive and organizational skills, and the ability to translate knowledge into practice, are advanced by increased expectations for collaborative decision-making. Simulation training will continue to be used to enhance and verify the learning experience. Students' clinical performance will be continually evaluated and students appraised of their progress. Formative evaluations by the clinical preceptor, summative evaluations by CRNA faculty, and self-reflective evaluation by the student will direct and document the development of 'advanced beginner' skills in this course.

This course introduces the student to the role of the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurse (W)C). The historical evolution of the WOC Nurse is reviewed. Students compare role responsibilities of the WOC nurse, including clinician/consultant, patient/staff education, and leadership/management. The process of research utilization and the contributions of evidence-based practice to the implementation of the WOC Nurse role responsibilities are examined. The collaborative interprofessional functions of the WOC nurse are explored. Professional issues, such as legal and ethical considerations, accountability, professional standards, budgetary management, data management, reimbursement issue, and national health policy are addressed.

Student examine principles of skin and wound care for clients across the lifespan. The pathophysiology of acute and chronic wound and skin disorders is presented to expand student understanding of normal anatomy and physiology of the integumentary system and would healing. Assessment and diagnostic methods and treatment and preventive plans are developed for clients at risk for wound development or threats to wound healing. Students combine principles of wound care to identify actual or potential would and skin problems, safe, evidence-based interventions, and characteristics of competent patient care. Students advance in theoretical knowledge, clinical judgment, differential diagnosis and decision-making skills in caring for clients with skin and wound needs.

This course builds upon the scientific underpinnings of NUR 720 Advanced Anesthetic Management for Special Procedures I. This didactic course is designed to facilitate the translation of science, research data and judgment into safe and effective clinical practice. Students are challenged to apply knowledge, critical thinking skills, and judgment in developing strategies for the management of patients undergoing head and neck procedures, plastic/reconstructive, trauma, burn, organ transplant surgical procedures and off-site anesthesia services. Case presentations and interactive discussions will provide a forum for intellectual exchange in which communication skills are further enhanced.

Principles for the care of patients with ostomy (fecal and urinary diversion), fistulas and percutaneous tubes are applied to the nursing care for clients across the lifespan in a variety of settings. Students use evidence-based strategies pertinent to ostomy care to identify actual or potential wound and skin problems, provide safe, competent care. Tey advance in theoretical knowledge, clinical judgment, differential diagnosis and decision-making skills in caring for clients with ostomy needs. Students integrate research and evidence-based practice guidelines in developing plans of care and educational plans for patients with fecal, urinary diversions, fistulas and percutaneous tubes. Clinical reasoning process foster accurate diagnosis and management of fecal and urinary diversions, fistulas and percutaneous tubes.

Students investigate principles of fecal and urinary diversion care for clients across the lifespan. The pathophysiology of acute and chronic GI/GU disorders are examined in the context of normal anatomy and physiology of the GI/GU. Assessment, diagnosis, treatment and preventive plans are developed based on student integration of principles of fecal and urinary diversion. Actual and potential problems, safe strategies, are evidence-based intervention explored in relation to competent patient care. Students develop increased theoretical knowledge as applied to differential diagnosis, clinical judgment, decision-making skills in caring for clients with fecal and urinary diversion needs.

Students investigate the principles supporting urinary and fecal incontinence care for clients across the lifespan. They apply knowledge of normal anatomy and physiology of the genitourinary and gastrointestinal systems, to pathophysiology of acute and chronic genitourinary and gastrointestinal incontinence disorders. assessment and diagnostic methods and treatment, and preventive plans of care are developed. Students apply knowledge of urinary and fecal incontinence to identification of actual or potential client problems in order to provide safe, evidence-based, competent patient care. They advance in theoretical knowledge, clinical judgment, differential diagnosis and decision-making skills in caring for clients with urinary and fecal incontinence needs.

Students apply the principles of urinary and fecal incontinence management to care of clients across the lifespan in a variety of settings. they integrate knowledge of gastrointestinal/genitourinary anatomy and physiology and pathophysiology to actual or potential urinary and fecal incontinence problems, and provide safe, evidence-based , competent care. Students advance in theoretical knowledge, clinical judgment. differential diagnosis and decision-making skills in caring for clients to meet the needs of urinary and fecal incontinence disorders. Student integrate research and evidence-based practice guidelines in developing plans of care for patients with urinary and fecal incontinence disorders. The process of clinical reasoning is developed for accurate diagnosis and management of urinary and fecal incontinence problems.

This doctoral level course is the first of three upper level anesthesia courses that build upon the scientific underpinnings of prior anesthetic management courses. This didactic course is designed to facilitate the translation of science, research data, and judgment into safe and effective clinical practice. Students are challenged to apply knowledge, critical thinking skills, and judgment in developing strategies for the management of patients with conditions not described in a previous section or who are undergoing a more specialized surgery. Case presentations and interactive discussions will provide a forum for intellectual exchange in which communication skills are further enhanced.  

This third doctoral level clinical practicum course furthers the clinical learning process by introducing rotations in the anesthesia subspecialties of pediatrics, obstetrics, cardiovascular, thoracic, regional, or neurosurgery as well as expanding on more complex general cases. Expectations for more independent decision-making and refined cognitive and technical skills increase. Simulation training will continue to be used to enhance and verify the clinical learning experience.

This doctoral level course builds upon the scientific underpinnings of NUR 730 Advanced Anesthetic Management for Special Procedures I. This didactic course is designed to facilitate the translation of science, research data and judgment into safe and effective clinical practice. Students are challenged to apply knowledge, critical thinking skills, and judgment in developing strategies for the management of patients undergoing eyes, ears, nose, throat, and neck procedures, plastic/reconstructive, trauma, burn, organ transplant surgical procedures and office-based or ambulatory surgery anesthesia services. Case presentations and interactive discussions will provide a forum for intellectual exchange in which communication skills are further enhanced.  

Clinical Practicum IV doctoral level clinical course furthers the clinical learning process by continuing to challenge the nurse anesthesia student as rotations in the anesthesia subspecialties of pediatrics, obstetrics, cardiovascular, thoracis, regional, and neurosurgery continue. Expectations for independent decision-making and refined cognitive and technical skills continue to increase. Simulation training will continue to be used to enhance and verify the clinical learning experience.

This doctoral level course prepares the nurse anesthesia student for the environmental issues and professional roles they will assume as Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs).  The importance of a commitment to life-long learning including advances in practice and technology, and maintenance of health and well-being are emphasized. Legal issues, business practices, state and federal regulatory requirements, scope of practice, standards of care, state board of nursing advanced practice status, certification and recertification, credentialing, and facility privileging are presented. Students develop a clear understanding of the potential impact of environmental factors related to nurse anesthesia practice, billing practices and healthcare reimbursement, and gain a greater appreciation for the role of the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA) in preserving practice rights and promoting safe and cost-effective anesthesia care. Students are provided information related to financial planning post-graduation as well as various practice setting options (anesthesia care team, independent contractor, s-corporation, etc.). 

Clinical Practicum V doctoral level clinical course furthers the clinical learning process by continuing to challenge the nurse anesthesia student as rotations in the anesthesia subspecialties of pediatrics, obstetrics, cardiovascular, thoracis, regional, and neurosurgery continue. Expectations for independent decision-making and refined cognitive and technical skills continue to increase. Simulation training will focus on providing experience managing rare occurrence/ high consequence critical events in anesthesia.

This doctoral level course prepares the nurse anesthesia student to respond to critical events during peri-anesthesia care. Rare occurrence/high consequence events are presented in high fidelity simulated experiences in anesthesia and operating room settings. Utilization of crew resource management, positive deviance, and TEAMStepps communication techniques will be stressed. The effect of critical situations on the psychological and physical wellbeing of healthcare providers is explored. Students will be prepared to assume a leadership role in promoting quality and safety in nurse anesthesia practice and inter-professional collaboration.

This clinical practicum course completes the learning process by continuing to challenge students to perform at autonomouslevels as rotations are completed in the anesthesia subspecialties of pediatrics, obstetrics, cardiovascular and neurosurgery. Expectations for independent decision-making and refined cognitive and technical skills are maximized. Simulation training will focus on providing experience managing rare occurrence/ high consequence critical events in anesthesia. Students' clinical performance will be continually evaluated and students appraised of their progress. Formative evaluations by the clinical preceptor, and terminal summative evaluations by CRNA faculty, and terminal self-reflective evaluation by the student will document the maintenance of competentskills and readiness to successfully enter advanced practice as a nurse anesthetist.

This culminating doctoral course prepares the student for successful completion of the 'National Certification Examination for Nurse Anesthetists' (NCE), and entry into advanced practice as a nurse anesthetist. Strategies for systematic preparation and healthy management of stress will be reinforced. Logistical details concerning certification, credentials, privileges, collaborative agreements, and practice protocols will be included.

(60 clinical hours; 30 didactic hours)
In this course, students build on their knowledge of nursing theory, research design, and approaches to data analysis. They evaluate nursing and other disciplines' research based on a critical evaluation of the literature. Students identify an issue from a declared practice focus for a scholarly project that is outcomes-focused. Meta-synthesis, meta-analysis, systematic and integrative reviews, and synopses are compared as sources of evidence for clinical decision making. Patient-centered care is emphasized from the perspectives of patient preference and best practices. Guidelines from federal, professional, and voluntary health organizations are investigated. Students increase their skills in database searching.

(60 clinical hours; 30 didactic hours)
In this course, students analyze the interplay of organizational culture and structures in complex health-care systems from various theoretical perspectives. Management, organization, team-building, and conflict resolution topics are investigated; and leadership theories are compared. Case studies demonstrating effective and ineffective clinical leadership are scrutinized related to their impact on the care-delivery process. Historical and emerging relationships among health-care professionals are examined along with quality improvement strategies aimed at changing organizational cultures and processes.

(185 clinical hours; 15 didactic hours)
Students implement a project and explore practice issues that influence project success with committee members and other stakeholders. They confer with clinical practice leaders when implementing the outcomes-focused project. The project is shaped by needs assessment data, literature review, and program evaluation strategies. Students implement the project, having critiqued, revised, and disseminated the approved project. The role of the DNP graduate as a clinical leader in health care and community systems is addressed as it relates to the evaluation and implementation of the project.

(Pass/Fail) (Additional course) *
This course is a continuation course to NUR 880. It is designed to provide opportunities for students requiring additional supports necessary for completing the written scholarly project proposal. Students enroll in this seminar course on a continual basis until the conclusion of the written scholarly project proposal and advisor affirmation of proposal completion. Students utilize available university supports including the Sheeky Writing Center and proposal committee members' expertise. Students must be actively enrolled in order to avail themselves of university resources. The course is available during fall and spring semesters. Summer availability is contingent upon DNP Program Director approval. (*optional)

(135 clinical hours; 1 hours didactic/meeting hours)
Students participate in an individually designed clinical practice immersion experience designed to build knowledge and skill for advanced specialty practice at a high level of complexity. The immersion experience provides the practice context in which the Scholarly Project is completed. Students implement an evidence-based project in a healthcare or community agency. They successfully defend their doctoral project. The required project end-product is the basis of a publishable manuscript.

(Pass/Fail) (Additional course) *
This course is a continuation course to NUR 881. This seminar offers students the opportunity to complete the clinical scholarly project and develop this project into a finalized form that is consistent with a journal manuscript and ready for defense. NUR 882 will be noted as "Incomplete" until the clinical scholarly project is finished. The course is available during fall and spring semesters. Summer availability is contingent upon DNP Program Director approval. Students will utilize university resources including library and writing center supports. (*optional)

The Nursing Clinical Practicum provides an opportunity for students to gain additional clinical experience related to the required clinical hours in the DNP program of study. Clinical goals are developed in conjunction with faculty advisors and advanced nursing interventions are developed, implemented, and evaluated in accord with the AACN DNP Essentials. Students explore topical areas relative to the development of their DNP Project.