Nursing
The Nursing Programs at Mount Wachusett Community College provide students with the opportunity to earn a Certificate in Nurse Assisting, a Certificate in Practical Nursing, an Associate Degree in Nursing. Upon completion of one of the programs, students are prepared for entry level into a variety of healthcare settings as well as to transfer into programs seeking a higher level of credentialing in nursing. During the course of study, students will develop skills and competencies to prepare for the national licensure exams.
Registered Nurses (RNs) are responsible for providing nursing care, health maintenance, teaching, counseling, planning, restoration of optimal functioning, and comfort for the dignified death of those in their care (244 CMR 3.01). According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the demand for RNs is, and will continue to be, great. MWCC nursing graduates have historically achieved a high pass rate on the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). The Nursing Degree program will prepare nurses for entry into nursing practice, and/or to transfer to four-year colleges or universities to pursue nursing. The program is approved by the Massachusetts Board of Nursing and accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. To contact the Commission, call 404-975-5000.
| Prerequisite Semester | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||
| MAT 143 | Statistics 1 | 3 |
| BIO 109 or 113 | Concepts in Biology (or Life Science for Allied Health) 1,5 | 3-4 |
| Year 1 | ||
| Fall | ||
| BIO 203 | Anatomy and Physiology I (formerly BIO 199) 1 | 4 |
| ENG 101 | College Writing I 2,3 | 3 |
| NUR 111 | Foundations Of Nursing 1 | 7 |
| NUR 116 | LPN to RN Transitions | 3 |
| PSY 105 | Introduction To Psychology 2,3 | 3 |
| Spring | ||
| BIO 204 | Anatomy and Physiology II 1,2,3 | 4 |
| BIO 205 | Microbiology 1,2,3 | 4 |
| NUR 114 | Nursing Care Of The Childbearing Family 1 | 8 |
| PSY 110 | Human Growth And Development 2,3 | 3 |
| Year 2 | ||
| Fall | ||
| ENG 102 | College Writing II 2,3 | 3 |
| NUR 220 | Medical Surgical Nursing, Part I 1 | 6 |
| NUR 230 | Psychiatric Nursing 1 | 4 |
| SOC 103 | Introduction To Sociology 2,3 | 3 |
| Spring | ||
| NUR 204 | Trends In Nursing 1 | 3 |
| NUR 222 | Medical-Surgical Nursing Part II 1 | 9 |
| Humanities Elective 2,4 | 3 | |
| Total Credits: | 76-77 | |
- 1
A grade of C+ or better is required for this course.
- 2
These courses must be taken concurrent with or prior to, the nursing courses specified for that particular semester.
- 3
Recommended completion prior to program application
- 4
Humanities Electives: See Elective Courses by Abbreviation.
Preferred elective: HUM 212 Medical Ethics- 5
Not required if A&P I/II already completed
Application Deadline
This selective enrollment program requires additional application components. The selection process is competitive and space is limited. (See Selective Program Requirements for Nursing.)
Requirements for Consideration
Applicants must meet certain academic standards. See Selective Program Requirements for Nursing for specific details or refer to the program application available on our website or through the Admissions Office.
Student Success Tips
Because of an extensive classroom/clinical commitment, students are encouraged to complete some of the general education requirements prior to beginning nursing courses.
Students are expected to have proficient computer skills and the ability to access the internet via desktop/laptop computer or tablet. Internet access may be from home or through a public site such as a local public library, public college or at any Mount Wachusett Community College campus.
Transfer Options
For transfer options, please click here. It is recommended that you also consult with your academic advisor.
Special requirements
Applicants must meet all requirements for consideration before entering the program. Admitted students must meet technical standards and additional requirements including immunizations, CPR certification, liability insurance and health insurance.
As part of the coursework in the nursing program, students are required to complete practical hours in clinical facilities working with patients/clients under the supervision of licensed providers. All clinical sites require proof of full COVID-19 vaccination. Some clinical sites require the student obtain certain background checks (state/federal criminal or sexual offender), fingerprinting and/or drug testing before participating in clinical experiences. Costs for certain criminal background checks and drug testing are the responsibility of the student. All screenings and background checks are completed AFTER admission/acceptance into the nursing program.
Please note: Marijuana, though legal in Massachusetts, is recognized as a controlled substance by the federal government. Marijuana use whether for medicinal or recreational purposes will lead to a positive drug test; making the student ineligible to attend a practicum site.
Students in all of MWCC’s nursing programs are required to have a 77% test grade average to progress throughout each semester of the program. The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) scores for the program must be within one year of the date of application to the program. Required Math and Science courses for the program must be within 10 years of the date of application to the program.
Clinical practicums are scheduled at facilities generally within one hour’s driving distance from MWCC’s Gardner campus. Clinical site assignment placement is randomized. Students will need reliable transportation to get to their classroom/laboratory and clinical experiences.
The prospective student is encouraged to discuss any concerns with the Dean of Nursing. A positive background check, positive drug screen or refusal to comply in these background checks or drug testing will result in the inability to participate in clinical experiences required in the program. (See Selective Program Requirements for Nursing Programs).
Please note: All BIO, MAT (prerequisite), and NUR courses require a grade of C+ to be eligible for promotion to the next level.
Career Options/Earning Potential
Registered Nurses (RNs) are responsible for providing nursing care, health maintenance, teaching, counseling, planning, restoration of optimal functioning, and comfort for the dignified death of those in their care (244 CMR 3.01). According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the demand for RNs is, and will continue to be, great. MWCC nursing graduates have historically achieved a high pass rate on the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). The Nursing Degree program will prepare nurses for entry into nursing practice, and/or to transfer to four-year colleges or universities to pursue nursing. The program is approved by the Massachusetts Board of Nursing and accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. To contact the Commission, call 404-975-5000.
| Prerequisite Semester | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||
| MAT 143 | Statistics 1 | 3 |
| BIO 109 or 113 | Concepts in Biology(or Life Science for Allied Health) 1,5 | 3-4 |
| Year 1 | ||
| Fall | ||
| BIO 203 | Anatomy and Physiology I (formerly BIO 199) 1 | 4 |
| ENG 101 | College Writing I 2, 3 | 3 |
| NUR 111 | Foundations Of Nursing 1, 6, 7 | 7 |
| NUR 116 | LPN to RN Transitions | 3 |
| PSY 105 | Introduction To Psychology 2, 3 | 3 |
| Spring | ||
| BIO 204 | Anatomy and Physiology II 1, 2, 3 | 4 |
| BIO 205 | Microbiology 1, 2, 3 | 4 |
| NUR 114 | Nursing Care Of The Childbearing Family 1 | 8 |
| PSY 110 | Human Growth And Development 2, 3 | 3 |
| Year 2 | ||
| Fall | ||
| ENG 102 | College Writing II 2, 3 | 3 |
| NUR 220 | Medical Surgical Nursing, Part I 1 | 6 |
| NUR 230 | Psychiatric Nursing 1 | 4 |
| SOC 103 | Introduction To Sociology 2, 3 | 3 |
| Spring | ||
| NUR 204 | Trends In Nursing 1 | 3 |
| NUR 222 | Medical-Surgical Nursing Part II 1 | 9 |
| Humanities Elective 2, 4 | 3 | |
| Total Credits: | 76-77 | |
- 1
A grade of C+ or better is required for this course.
- 2
These courses must be taken concurrent with or prior to, the nursing courses specified for that particular semester.
- 3
Recommended completion prior to program application
- 4
Humanities Electives: See Elective Courses by Abbreviation. Preferred elective: HUM 212 Medical Ethics
- 5
Not required if A&P I/II already completed
- 6
Credit for NUR 111 will be given to Licensed Practical Nurses that successfully pass the ATI Fundamentals Competency Exam. Students that do not successfully pass that exam will have the opportunity to start the program in NUR 111.
- 7
Students who have been awarded MWCC's Practical Nursing Certificate in December with a B or better in all Nursing Courses will receive credit for NUR 111. This credit is only awarded when enrolling the the subsequent January semester.
Application Deadline
This selective enrollment program requires additional application components. The selection process is competitive and space is limited. (See Selective Program Requirements for Nursing.)
Requirements for Consideration
Applicants must meet certain academic standards. See Selective Program Requirements for Nursing for specific details or refer to the program application available on our website or through the Admissions Office.
Student Success Tips
Because of an extensive classroom/clinical commitment, students are encouraged to complete some of the general education requirements prior to beginning nursing courses.
Students are expected to have proficient computer skills and the ability to access the internet via desktop/laptop computer or tablet. Internet access may be from home or through a public site such as a local public library, public college or at any Mount Wachusett Community College campus.
Transfer Options
For transfer options, please click here. It is recommended that you also consult with your academic advisor.
Special requirements
Applicants must meet all requirements for consideration before entering the program. Admitted students must meet technical standards and additional requirements including immunizations, CPR certification, liability insurance and health insurance.
As part of the coursework in the nursing program, students are required to complete practical hours in clinical facilities working with patients/clients under the supervision of licensed providers. All clinical agencies require proof of COVID-19 full vaccination. Some clinical sites require the student obtain certain background checks (state/federal criminal or sexual offender), fingerprinting and/or drug testing before participating in clinical experiences. Costs for certain criminal background checks and drug testing are the responsibility of the student. All screenings and background checks are completed AFTER admission/acceptance into the nursing program.
Please note: Marijuana, though legal in Massachusetts, is recognized as a controlled substance by the federal government. Marijuana use whether for medicinal or recreational purposes will lead to a positive drug test; making the student ineligible to attend a practicum site.
Students in all of MWCC’s nursing programs are required to have a 77% test grade average to progress throughout each semester of the program. The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) scores for the program must be within one year of the date of application to the program. Required Math and Science courses for the program must be within 10 years of the date of application to the program.
Clinical practicums are scheduled at facilities generally within one hour’s driving distance from MWCC’s Gardner campus. Clinical site assignments are randomized. Students will need reliable transportation to get to their classroom/laboratory and clinical experiences.
The prospective student is encouraged to discuss any concerns with the Dean of Nursing. A positive background check, positive drug screen or refusal to comply in these background checks or drug testing will result in the inability to participate in clinical experiences required in the program. (See Selective Program Requirements for Nursing Programs).
Please note: All BIO, MAT (prerequisite), and NUR courses require a grade of C+ to be eligible for promotion to the next level.
Career Options/Earning Potential
Practical Nursing Certificate (PN) (selective) (January entrance)
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) provide care for sick and injured patients under the direction of physicians and registered nurses. They take vital signs, prepare and give medications, apply dressings, observe physical and mental changes in patients, collect samples, maintain patient hygiene, and attend to physical, mental, and spiritual needs. MWCC’s Practical Nursing Certificate provides short-term education leading to a rewarding health care career. The college credits earned in this program may be applied toward a nursing degree. The PN Certificate is approved by the Massachusetts Board of Nursing accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. To contact the Commission, call 404-975-5000.
| Year 1 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Credits | |
| PSY 105 | Introduction To Psychology 1 | 3 |
| NUR 102 | Fundamentals Of Practical Nursing | 11 |
| BIO 152 | Essentials of Anatomy and Physiology 2 | 4 |
| Summer | ||
| NUR 104 | Maternal Child Nursing | 9 |
| PSY 110 | Human Growth And Development | 3 |
| ENG 101 | College Writing I 3 | 3 |
| Fall | ||
| NUR 106 | Contemporary Nursing for the Practical Nurse | 13 |
| Total Credits: | 46 | |
- 1
These courses must be taken concurrently or prior to the nursing courses specified for that particular semester
- 2
BIO 203 Anatomy and Physiology I (formerly BIO 199) and BIO 204 Anatomy and Physiology II may be taken in place of BIO 152 Essentials of Anatomy and Physiology. Grade must be a C+ or better.
- 3
Recommended completion prior to program application (advised within 1 year of application)
See the Nursing program student learning outcomes and technical standards.
Application Deadline
This selective enrollment program requires additional application components. The selection process is competitive and space is limited. (See Selective Program Requirements for Nursing.)
Requirements for Consideration
Applicants must meet certain academic standards. See Selective Program Requirements for Nursing for specific details or refer to the program application available on our website or through the Admissions Office.
Student Success Tips
Because of an extensive classroom/clinical commitment, students are encouraged to complete some of the general education requirements prior to beginning nursing courses.
Students are expected to have proficient computer skills and the ability to access the internet via desktop/laptop computer or tablet. Internet access may be from home or through a public site such as a local public library, public college or at any Mount Wachusett Community College campus.
Transfer Options
For transfer options, please click here. It is recommended that you also consult with your academic advisor.
Special Requirements
Applicants must meet all requirements for consideration before entering the program. Admitted students must meet technical standards and additional requirements including immunizations, CPR certification, liability insurance and health insurance.
As part of the coursework in the nursing program, students are required to complete practical hours in clinical facilities working with patients/clients under the supervision of licensed providers. All clinical agencies require proof of full COVID-19 vaccination. Some clinical sites require the student obtain certain background checks (state/federal criminal or sexual offender), fingerprinting and/or drug testing before participating in clinical experiences. Costs for certain criminal background checks and drug testing are the responsibility of the student. All screenings and background checks are completed AFTER admission/acceptance into the nursing program.
Please note: Marijuana, though legal in Massachusetts, is recognized as a controlled substance by the federal government. Marijuana use whether for medicinal or recreational purposes will lead to a positive drug test; making the student ineligible to attend a practicum site.
Students in all of MWCC’s nursing programs are required to have a 77% test grade average to progress throughout each semester of the program. The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) scores for the program must be within one year of the date of application to the program. Required Math and Science courses for the program must be within 10 years of the date of application to the program.
Clinical practicums are scheduled at facilities generally within one hour’s driving distance from MWCC’s Gardner campus. Clinical site placements are randomized. Students will need reliable transportation to get to their classroom/laboratory and clinical experiences.
The prospective student is encouraged to discuss any concerns with the Dean of Nursing. A positive background check, positive drug screen or refusal to comply in these background checks or drug testing will result in the inability to participate in clinical experiences required in the program. (See Selective Program Requirements for Nursing Programs).
Please note: All BIO, MAT (prerequisite), and NUR courses require a grade of C+ to be eligible for promotion to the next level.
Career Options/Earning Potential
Student Learning Outcomes for PN
Upon receipt of a Certificate of Completion from this program, students shall have demonstrated the ability to meet these Program Competencies that guide the nursing curricula and practice:
-
Patient-Centered Care & Safety - Provide holistic care that recognizes an individual’s preference, values, and needs and respects the patient or designee as a full partner in providing compassionate, coordinated, age and culturally appropriate, safe, and effective care.
-
Professionalism & Leadership - Demonstrate accountability for the delivery of standards-based nursing care that is consistent with moral, altruistic, legal, ethical, regulatory, and humanistic principles while influencing the behavior of individuals or groups of individuals in a way that will facilitate the achievement of shared goals.
-
Systems-Based Practice & Quality Improvement - Demonstrate an awareness of and responsiveness to the larger context of the healthcare system, based on minimizing the risk of harm to patients and providers, and will demonstrate with ability to effectively call on work unit resources to provide care that is of optimal quality and value.
-
Informatics, Technology & Evidence-Based Practice - Use information and technology to communicate, manage knowledge using the best current evidence-based research, mitigate error, and support decision making in nursing practice.
-
Communication, Teamwork & Collaboration - Interact effectively with patients, families, and colleagues, fostering mutual respect and shared decision making, team learning, and development to enhance patient satisfaction and health outcomes.
Student Learning Outcomes for NU, and NAS
Upon graduation from this program, students shall have demonstrated the ability to meet these Program Competencies that guide the nursing curricula and practice:
-
Patient-Centered Care & Safety - Manage holistic care that recognizes an individual’s preference, values, and needs and respects the patient or designee as a full partner in providing compassionate, coordinated, age and culturally appropriate, safe and effective care.
-
Professionalism & Leadership - Validate accountability for the delivery of standards-based nursing care that is consistent with moral, altruistic, legal, ethical, regulatory, and humanistic principles while influencing the behavior of individuals or groups of individuals in a way that will facilitate the achievement of shared goals.
-
Systems-Based Practice & Quality Improvement - Support an awareness of and responsiveness to the larger context of the healthcare system, based on minimizing the risk of harm to patients and providers, and will demonstrate with ability to effectively call on work unit resources to provide care that is of optimal quality and value.
-
Informatics, Technology & Evidence-Based Practice - Evaluate information and technology to communicate, manage knowledge using the best current evidence-based research, mitigate error, and support decision making in nursing practice.
-
Communication, Teamwork & Collaboration - Relate effectively with patients, families and colleagues, fostering mutual respect and shared decision making, team learning, and development to enhance patient satisfaction and health outcomes.
Technical Standards1 for PN, NU, and NAS
- 1
For general information about technical standards and accommodation, see Technical Standards.
Students entering the nursing program must be able to demonstrate the ability to
- Comprehend textbook material at the 11th grade level.
- Communicate and assimilate information either in spoken, printed, signed, or computer voice format.
- Gather, analyze, and draw conclusions from data.
- Stand for a minimum of two hours.
- Walk for a minimum of six hours, not necessarily consecutively.
- Stoop, bend, and twist for a minimum of 30 minutes at a time and be able to repeat this activity at frequent intervals.
- Lift a 40-pound person or assist with a larger person and transfer the person from one location to another.
- Determine by touch: hotness/coldness, wetness/dryness, hardness/softness.
- Use the small muscle dexterity necessary to do such tasks as gloving, gowning, and operating controls on machinery.
- Read measurement units with or without corrective lenses.
- Respond to spoken words, monitor signals, call bells, and vital sign assessment equipment with or without corrective devices.
- Identify behaviors that would endanger a person’s life or safety and intervene quickly in a crisis situation with an appropriate solution.
- Remain calm, rational, decisive, and in control at all times, especially during emergency situations.
- Exhibit social skills appropriate to professional interactions.
- Maintain cleanliness and personal grooming consistent with close personal contact.
- Function without causing harm to self or others if under the influence of prescription or over-the-counter medications.
NUR 102. Fundamentals Of Practical Nursing. 11 Credits.
This course provides an introduction to the role of the practical nurse in assisting to identify and meet the self-care needs of clients, patients and families/significant others. The framework for this course is in understanding nursing as an art and a science based on current evidence and best practices. Practical Nursing is modeled upon a professional body of knowledge that integrates concepts from the liberal arts, and the biological, physical, psychological and social sciences. Opportunities will be provided to learn and to begin to use various holistic theories to determine and implement appropriate nursing interventions. Content will include family theory and dynamics, diversity, communication skills, microbiology, nutrition, pharmacology, teaching and learning theory, problem-solving process, levels of prevention, legal-ethical nursing practice and caring behaviors. Students will have the opportunity to practice and learn skills in a classroom laboratory environment. Clinical experience will be provided in area hospitals, sub-acute units, or long-term care facilities. This course requires a 77% test grade average as well as an overall course grade of 77% in order to progress to progress in the program. Prerequisites: MAT 126 or higher (not MAT 140) with a grade of C+ or higher; BIO 152 or BIO 203 and BIO 204 (or corequisites); ENG 098, RDG 098, or placement. Spring.
NUR 104. Maternal Child Nursing. 9 Credits.
This course focuses on the developmental self-care requisites, advocacy and health care management of culturally diverse individuals across the lifespan, primarily focused on maternal-child care and care of the pediatric patient. Content and skills developed in Fundamentals for Practical Nursing will be expanded to assist NUR 102 Fundamentals of Practical Nursing students to care for this client population. This course is divided into two components of nursing care needs: maternity and pediatrics. The clinical component of the course includes experiences in maternity and pediatric settings. This course requires a 77% test grade average as well as an overall course grade of 77% in order to progress to progress in the program. Prerequisites: BIO 152, ENG 101 (or corequisite), NUR 102, PSY 105, PSY 110 (or corequisite). Summer.
NUR 106. Contemporary Nursing for the Practical Nurse. 13 Credits.
This final nursing course will assist the practical nursing student in learning to care for groups of adult patients, ranging from wellness management to those recovering from specific disorders or injury, including mental health issues to those individuals experiencing end of life issues. The course expands on previous learned information and introduces students to the principles of management within their scope of practice. Students employ the nursing process to deliver safe, comprehensive, individualized care in order to meet the self-care requisites of the assigned patient population. This course provides opportunities for clinical experiences in acute, sub-acute, and long-term care as well as outpatient and community based care. The goal of nursing care is to prevent illness, promote comfort, protect and restore health to unique individuals. Emphasis is placed on the expected role of the novice practical nurse in various health care settings. This course requires a 77% test grade average as well as an overall course grade of 77% in order to progress to progress in the program. Prerequisites: NUR 104, ENG 101, PSY 110.
NUR 111. Foundations Of Nursing. 7 Credits.
This course introduces students to the concepts of nursing, healthcare, and the nursing process. Learning opportunities support student beginning level achievement of the MWCC Nursing Program Student Learning Outcomes. Emphasis is placed on Patient-Centered Care, Professionalism, Communication, Teamwork, Safety, and Evidence-Based Practice. Patient assessment, clinical reasoning, and basic nursing skills are developed through skills lab activities and clinical experiences in the long-term care setting. This course requires a 77% test grade average as well as an overall course grade of 77% in order to progress to progress in the program. Prerequisites: MAT 143. Corequisites: BIO 203, ENG 101, PSY 105. Fall.
NUR 114. Nursing Care Of The Childbearing Family. 8 Credits.
Building on the foundations-level achievement of the Nursing Program Student Learning Outcomes acquired in NUR 111, this course provides the essential knowledge, skills and attitudes required to provide safe and effective nursing care to childbearing women, their fetus/newborn, and children of all developmental ages from infancy through young adulthood. Attention is focused on the continued development of assessment skills and use of the nursing process to identify patient problems, create an evidence-based plan of action, and evaluate patient care outcomes. The collaborative problem, which addresses potential complications of the childbearing cycle and childhood health alterations is emphasized as a crucial element of patient safety. Clinical experiences take place in maternity and pediatric based simulation labs, pediatric long-term care facilities, and on maternity units in acute care clinical facilities. Prerequisite: NUR 111, BIO 203, ENG 101, PSY 105. Corequisites: BIO 204, BIO 205, PSY 110. Spring.
NUR 115. Family Centered Nursing Care. 4 Credits.
Building on the foundations-level achievement of the Nursing Program Student Learning Outcomes acquired in professional practice and NUR 116, this course provides the essential knowledge, skills and attitudes required to provide safe and effective nursing care to the childbearing woman, their fetus/newborn, children and their families. Attention is focused on the continued development of assessment skills and use of the nursing process to identify patient problems, create an evidence-based plan of action, and evaluate patient care outcomes. The collaborative problem, which addresses potential complications of childhood health alterations and the childbearing cycle, is emphasized as a crucial element of patient safety. Clinical experiences take place in a pediatric long-term care facility, postpartum and nursery units, with observational experiences on the birthing unit as available. This course requires a 77% test grade average as well as an overall course grade of 77% in order to progress to progress in the program. Prerequisite: NUR 116. Summer.
NUR 116. LPN to RN Transitions. 3 Credits.
This course assists with the transition from the role of the LPN to the RN roles of provider of care, manager of care, and member within the discipline of nursing as an associate degree nurse. Emphasis is placed on the concepts of clinical competence and critical thinking in the planning and documentation of care for clients in a variety of health settings. Learning experiences are provided through independent study and simulation in the campus nursing lab setting. This course requires a 77% test grade average as well as an overall course grade of 77% in order to progress to progress in the program. Prerequisites: BIO 203, BIO 204 (or corequisite), BIO 205 (or corequisite), ENG 101, NUR 111, PSY 105, PSY 110 (or corequisite). Spring.
NUR 117. Nurse Assistant Theory. 4 Credits.
This course provides students with the theory laboratory and clinical practice to safely care for clients in healthcare settings, and prepares students to become licensed certified nursing assistants. This course requires a 77% test grade average as well as an overall course grade of 77% in order to progress to progress in the program. Students wishing to participate in the CNA-LPN Walkway must achieve and 83 or higher in the course to continue in the walkway. Prerequisite: ENG 098, FYE 101, RDG 098, or placement.
NUR 204. Trends In Nursing. 3 Credits.
This course facilitates the transition from nursing education to practice. Content is structured such that current issues in nursing are discussed. Students participate in small group discussions on selected issues as they relate to nursing. Activities are designed to synthesize the five nursing End of Program Student Learning Outcomes: Patient-Centered Care & Safety, Professionalism & Leadership, Systems-Based Practice & Quality Improvement, Informatics, Technology & Evidence-Based Practice, and Communication, Teamwork & Collaboration. Concepts basic to the performance of entry level nursing are explored. Concepts can include role transition, employment considerations, healthcare delivery system, leadership/management, prioritization, delegation, conflict management, advocacy, health promotion, political action, ethical/legal principles, quality patient care, nursing informatics and research, workplace issues, and/or emergency preparedness. This course requires a grade of 77% or higher in order to progress in the program. Prerequisites: ENG 102, NUR 220, NUR 230, SOC 103. Corequisites: NUR 222, Humanities Elective. Spring.
NUR 220. Medical Surgical Nursing, Part I. 6 Credits.
Medical-Surgical Nursing Part I focuses on the nursing care of patients with common recurring health problems. The organizing structure is based on human needs, the nursing process, the life cycle, and the three interrelated roles of provider of care, manager of care, and member within the discipline of nursing. The health problems discussed include fluid and electrolyte imbalances, care of the patient in the perioperative setting, musculoskeletal, respiratory, cardiovascular, and endocrine dysfunction. Emphasis is placed on continuing care needs of individual patients, implications of aging, and acute care skills. Concomitant clinical experiences are selected to enable the student to develop the knowledge, skill, and attitude required to provide the nursing care needed by individual patients. This course requires a 77% test grade average as well as an overall course grade of 77% in order to progress to progress in the program. Prerequisites: BIO 204, BIO 205; ENG 102 (or corequisite); NUR 114 or NUR 115 and NUR 116; NUR 230 (corequisite); PSY 110; SOC 103 (or corequisite). Fall.
NUR 222. Medical-Surgical Nursing Part II. 9 Credits.
This course focuses on the nursing care of groups of patients experiencing common recurring health problems. The organizing structure is based on human needs, the nursing process, life cycle and the three interrelated roles of provider of care, manager of care, and member within the discipline of nursing. Life cycle concepts are reinforced as important considerations in planning patient care. The health problems discussed include gastrointestinal, neurological, hematology/oncology, renal, reproductive, integumentary, and sensory dysfunction. Emphasis is placed on developing skill in managing the care of more than one patient, participating in the planning for the continuing care needs of patients in the acute care setting, and the refinement of nursing skills. Concomitant clinical experiences are selected to enable the student to develop the knowledge, skill and attitude required to provide the nursing care needed by groups of patients. This course requires a 77% test grade average as well as an overall course grade of 77% in order to progress to progress in the program. Prerequisites: ENG 102; NUR 204 (corequisite), NUR 220, NUR 230; SOC 103; humanities elective (or corequisite). Spring.
NUR 230. Psychiatric Nursing. 4 Credits.
This course focuses on the application of the nursing process to the care of clients who are experiencing mental health problems. Students are introduced to concepts of psychiatric mental health nursing, including principles of pathophysiology, psychopharmacology, and therapeutic communication. Clinical experiences allow students to apply these concepts in the care of clients with varying mental health problems. Emphasis is placed on the applicability of psychiatric nursing principles to the care of clients regardless of the setting or medical diagnosis. This course requires a 77% test grade average as well as an overall course grade of 77% in order to progress to progress in the program. Prerequisites: BIO 204, BIO 205; NUR 114 or NUR 115 and NUR 116; PSY 110. Corequisites: ENG 102, NUR 220 (NU majors only), SOC 103. Fall.