This course builds on Health and Illness I and II, focusing on more complex and/or unstable patient care situations some of which require strong recognition skills and rapid decision-making. The evidence base supporting appropriate focused assessment and effective, efficient nursing intervention are explored. Lifespan and developmental factors, cultural variables, and legal aspects of care frame the ethical decision-making employed in patient choices for treatment or palliative care within the acute care, psychiatric, and home health settings. Case scenarios incorporate prioritizing care needs, delegation and supervision, family and patient teaching for discharge planning, home health care, and/or end of life care.
“C” or higher in NURS 320.
- Use management principles, strategies, and tools in caring for a group of patients in clinical settings.
- Propose adjustments to plan of care after reflecting on client's level of comfort and ability to manage symptoms and symptom of distress.
- Collaborate with members of the health care team to plan individualized plans of care to meet the needs of groups of clients.
- Advocate for the delivery of client - centered care.
- Assist clients to obtain available health resources within the community to expand treatment options.
- Analyze ethical and legal concerns that are experienced by clients, families, and nurses associated with acute and chronic client care including the dying process.
- Demonstrate clinical judgment in the delivery of safe care to clients across a wide range of settings.
- Demonstrate sensitivity and responsiveness in interactions with clients.
- Incorporate evidence-based interventions in providing care to groups of clients.