I. Course Title: Nursing of the Adult II
II. Course Number: NURS 448
III. Credit Hours: 5 credits
IV. Prerequisites: NURS 362, NURS 364, NURS 368
V. Course Description:
This course focuses on nursing care for adult clients with complex health problems
incorporating clinical experiences in a variety of community settings. Previously
gained knowledge as well a new knowledge is emphasized to promote the acutely ill
client鈥檚 holistic health. Theoretical knowledge and clinical application facilitate
transition from student to professional nurse.
VI. Detailed Description of Content of the Course:
This is a web-enhanced course with emphasis placed on nursing care of the client experiencing
critical illness.
Topical Outline:
Respiratory and Ventilation
Respiratory Process
Arterial Blood Gas Analysis
Mechanical Ventilation
Nursing Care of the Client with Altered Respiratory Function
Perfusion
Determinants of Cardiac Output
Altered Cardiac Dysfunction and Electrocardiograph Monitoring
Hemodynamic Monitoring
Shock States
Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome
Neurologic
Consciousness
Acute Cerebral Dysfunction
Spinal Cord Injury
Metabolic
Altered Glucose Metabolism
Acute Renal Dysfunction Injury
Acute Burn Injury
Trauma Assessment and Resuscitation
Organ Transplantation
Gastrointestinal
Acute Hepatic Dysfunction
Acute Pancreatic Dysfunction
VI. Detailed Description of Conduct of Course:
May include but not limited to: lectures and discussion based on case studies and
problem-based learning, data clustering and concept mapping, videotapes, DVDs, overheads
, guest lectures, written projects, guided clinical practice, clinical conferences,
and student presentations.
VII. Goals and Objectives of the Course:
The objectives and content of this level 3 Course are derived from the School of Nursing鈥檚
philosophy and conceptual framework, and facilitate achievement of the School鈥檚 program
objectives as well as the Essentials of Baccalaureate Education (AACN). Additionally,
the major topics and skills covered in this course represent content covered on standardized
achievement examinations and the NCLEX-RN test plan. Current research and advancement
in theory and clinical practice also determine content.
Upon successful completion of the course, the student will be able to:
1. Develop the knowledge and methods of a variety of disciplines to informed decision
making in the high acuity setting.
2. Demonstrate increasing skill in applying frameworks for ethical decision-making
and advocate for high quality patient care. Promotes the image of nursing by modeling
the values and articulating the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of the nursing profession
3. Implement evidence-based nursing interventions as appropriate for managing the
acute and chronic care of patients and promoting health across the lifespan in the
high acuity setting.
4. Apply patient-care technologies as appropriate to address the needs of a diverse
patient population.
5. Integrate clinical judgment, inter-professional perspectives, and patient preferences
in planning, implementing, and evaluating outcomes of care.
6. Contribute the nursing perspective to inter-professional teams. Advocates for
high quality safe patient care in the high acuity setting; optimizing outcomes of
individuals, families, and aggregates.
7. Implement evidence-based state and national regulations and/or prevention strategies
that affect populations in the high acuity
8. Recognize and report any known or suspected incidences of abuse, neglect, or exploitation
of any patient or incapacitated adults.
9. Conduct comprehensive and focused assessments of health and illness parameters
of patients, using developmentally and culturally appropriate approaches.
VIII. Assessment Measures:
Assessment measures may include but are not limited to Tests, Exams, Quizzes, Written
projects, Individual or Group projects, Oral presentation, Class Participation, Clinical
Performance, Case studies, Team Based Learning, Case Analysis written project, and
group presentations.
Review and Approval
May 2001 Undergraduate Curriculum Janet Hardy Boettcher, Revision Director
April 2004 Review/Approval Undergraduate Curriculum Committee
February 2011, Kim Carter, Director
March 2021, Iris Mullins, Director