(NU) Nursing

NU 100. Historical Perspectives of Healthcare. 3 Hours.

The major focus of this course is on the past, present, and emerging roles and practices within United States healthcare within the context of U.S. social and political history. An interprofessional review of social determinants of health in care and wellness will be presented in context of perceptions and application to modern healthcare practices.

NU 208. Health Assessment. 4 Hours.

This course covers nursing assessment of the healthy adult. The student gathers subjective and objective data about a client’s health status and performs a systematic physical assessment. The clinical laboratory setting is utilized to practice the techniques of assessment and the identification of normal findings. Prerequisite(s): SC 221 and SL 221 and SC 222 and SL 222.

NU 210. Fundamentals of Nursing. 4 Hours.

The course prepares the beginning nursing student with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes (KSAs) to perform basic nursing assessment and clinical skills. Using the nursing process, the focus of the course is on patient safety using Quality and Safety Education for Nurses (QSEN) competencies and demonstrating knowledge of best practice basic clinical skills for adults. Prerequisite(s): SC 180 and SC 191 and SC 221 and SL 180 and SL 191 and SL 221.

NU 211. Nursing Intervention I. 3 Hours.

This course introduces concepts of patient care and basic nursing interventions used in caring for individuals throughout the lifespan. Learners will use the classroom and skills laboratory to gain beginning competence in nursing theory, nursing process, basic nursing skills, therapeutic communication, and critical thinking. Students will also develop an awareness of diverse cultural beliefs and values in relation to health care. A major focus will be on the nurse’s role in the safe delivery of care. Prerequisite(s): SC 221 and SL 221 and SC 222 and SL 222 and SC 180 and SL 180 and NU 100 and (MS 141 or MS 180 or MS 181).

NU 212. Introduction to Medical-Surgical Nursing. 3 Hours.

In this course students apply demonstrate competencies with respect to nursing interventions utilized throughout the lifespan. Students also enhance cognitive, psychomotor, affective, personal, and professional development. Skills learned in this course are applied clinically throughout the remainder of the curriculum. Students also demonstrate an awareness of diverse cultural beliefs and values in relation to the healthcare of others. Prerequisite(s): NU 210 and NL 210.

NU 214. Pharmacology. 2 Hours.

This course builds upon students’ knowledge of anatomy, physiology, chemistry, and the nursing process. It is designed to provide the knowledge required for the safe administration of drugs and teaching with patients across the lifespan. Actions, therapeutic uses, interactions and side effects of major drug classifications, as well as nursing responsibilities related to drug administration to patients across the lifespan are examined. Prerequisite(s): NU 210 and NL 210 and (MS 141 or MS 180 or MS 181 or MS 182).

NU 299. Topic/. 1-3 Hour.

Selected topics in nursing are considered. The course enhances students’ knowledge of professional nursing, building upon previous knowledge of the nursing and research processes. Emphasis is placed on increasing awareness of current professional issues in nursing.

NU 315. Family Centered Care-Children. 2 Hours.

This course builds upon previous course work in social and natural sciences, humanities and nursing. It is designed to address issues related to health and illness experienced by children and their families in varying developmental stages. Students apply the nursing process, adaptation and family theories as a framework to assess, plan, implement and evaluate nursing strategies used to maintain health and to resolve illness related issues. Additionally, students integrate research findings to provide nursing care based on evidence. Prerequisite(s): NU 212 and NL 212 and NU 214 and NL 214 and PY 141.

NU 322. Medical Surgical Nursing I. 3 Hours.

The design of Medical Surgical Nursing I is to build knowledge, skills, and attitudes within the content area of medical-surgical nursing. Through simulation, clinical experiences and classroom activities, the student develops basic competency in management of clients with oxygenation, mobility, hematological/immunological, neurobiological, perfusion, or gastrointestinal needs. Prerequisite(s): NU 212 and NL 212 and NU 214 and NL 214.

NU 323. Medical Surgical Nursing II. 3 Hours.

The design of Medical Surgical Nursing II is to build knowledge, skills and attitudes within the content area of medical-surgical nursing. Through simulation, clinical experiences and classroom activities, the student develops basic competency in management of clients with complex medical needs including patients who have critical care needs, burns, shock, diabetes management, neurological issues and also patients with multiple chronic diseases. Prerequisite(s): NU 322 and NL 322.

NU 324. Family Centered Care - Women and Infants. 2 Hours.

The focus of this course is the childbearing family. Concepts related to pre-pregnancy, pregnancy, the fetus/newborn, and the post delivery family are presented. Physiologic, social, and cultural issues, as they relate to the childbearing family, are included. Clinical experiences occur in a variety of settings, including inpatient, educational, and community settings. Prerequisite(s): NU 212 and NU 214 and NL 212 and NL 214 and PY 141.

NU 412. Population Focus - Community Health. 2 Hours.

This course builds upon the student’s broad base of knowledge in the natural and social sciences, humanities, and previous nursing content. Attention is directed toward assessment of bio-psycho social stressors of the individual, family, group, and community and their adaptation to changes in the environment. Prerequisite(s): NU 322 and NU 323 and NL 322 and NL 323.

NU 422. Population Focus - Mental Health. 2 Hours.

This course focuses on behaviors, which occur when individuals, families, and groups in the community are unable to cope effectively with acute and chronic biopsychosocial and cultural stressors. Relevant theories and theoretical formulations are used in order to promote an understanding of individual, family, group, and community dynamics. Within the framework of the nursing process, self-knowledge and intervention skills are developed which allow the student to assist individuals, families, and groups in their adaptation to internal and external stressors. Prerequisite(s): NU 323 and NU 315 and NU 324 and NL 323 and NL 315 and NL 324.

NU 424. Adult / Family Health III. 3 Hours.

This course is the last of the adult health sequence. It is designed to integrate and expand previous learning, clinical and leadership experiences of the student. Students participate in scenarios that require them to critically analyze and apply research, theories and educational models of teaching/learning processes. Prerequisite(s): NU 322 and NU 323.

NU 425. Transition to Practice. 2 Hours.

This weekly seminar capstone class is for students graduating at the end of the semester. Students engage in an online NCLEX-RN preparation and participate in activities related to transition to practice. The seminar portion of the class affords students an opportunity to review information, discuss questions and challenges, and enhance their ability to successfully complete the NCLEX-RN exam and begin entry level nursing practice. Prerequisite(s): NU 323 and NU 315 and NU 324 and NL 323 and NL 315 and NL 324.

NU 426. Policy Leadership and Management in Nursing. 4 Hours.

This course provides a conceptual and practical basis for examining professional nursing leadership roles. Emphasis is placed on accountability in regulated systems, management of complex organizations, and principles of advocacy aimed at the promotion of health and quality health systems. Prerequisite(s): College Level=Senior.

NU 431. Wound Management. 3 Hours.

Focus is on utilization of the Nursing Process in the provision of care to clients with chronic wounds. Emphasis is placed on client/family education and the use of evidence-based practice in wound management. Prerequisite(s): NU 208 and NU 212.

NU 432. Caring, Spirituality & Culture. 3 Hours.

This course is designed to provide the undergraduate nursing student with a working knowledge of how the concepts of caring, culture and spirituality influence health status and health related behaviors. The focus of the course is to explore these concepts, their meanings and implications, and to utilize the concepts when providing or planning holistic nursing care for diverse clients, families, groups, and communities.

NU 433. Gerontological Nursing. 3 Hours.

Course is to address the professional nursing role in providing and coordinating health care for the elderly population. Content provided is to address physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs of older adults. The nursing process will identify individual and family issues for professional nurse to serve as a conduit for skills and information to promote successful aging. Prerequisite(s): NU 208 and NU 212.

NU 435. History of Women’s Health. 3 Hours.

An elective course that explores the progression of the women’s health movement in the U.S. from the 1800’s to present day. Ideas about women’s bodies as an entity of wellness and illness in the context of medicine and the feminist movement will be discussed and researched in this seminar-type class. The student will gain an understanding of the struggles as well as the accomplishments of important historical figures and their concepts. Traditional women healers from lay to professional will be researched for an understanding of how women receive health care in 2008. Race, ethnicity, disability, sexuality and class will be examined looking at individual perspectives of health and care. Prerequisite(s): NU 208 and NU 212.

NU 441. Role Transition to Professional Nursing. 3 Hours.

This course examines the transition of the Registered Nurse (RN) to the professional role of pursing an advanced degree at the baccalaureate or graduate level. As the entry course for the Professional Component of the RN-to-BSN program, this immersive experience provides students with networking and mentoring opportunities with peers and faculty. Students also examine the nursing profession, historical foundations and current issues regarding the scope and roles of professional baccalaureate nursing practices. Critical thinking and interpersonal communication skills that are critical to professional practice are assessed through writing intensive assignments.

NU 442. Health Informatics & Technology. 3 Hours.

In this course, students explore the changing technology environment and its potential impact on the delivery of quality, safe patient care. The course combines knowledge of nursing, computers and health information in clinical decision-making and patient care outcomes. Overriding considerations will include: (a) technology’s impact on nursing work flow, (b) legal and ethical considerations associated with select technology, and (c) the impact of technology on the changing role of the nurse. Prerequisite(s): (NL 212 and NL 214 and NU 212 and NU 214) or NU 441.

NU 443. Quality Improvement in Healthcare Systems. 3 Hours.

In this course, students are introduced to the competencies and nursing leadership responsibilities related to, continuous quality improvement, including data analysis, clinical practice guidelines, and future of healthcare. Students apply: (a) quality improvement assessment tools and models within a healthcare system, (b) continuous quality improvement theory, (c) evidence-based practice, (d) performance improvement methods, (e) leadership skills, and (e) the development of team-based problem solving and resolution. Prerequisite(s): (NL 212 and NL 214 and NU 212 and NU 214) or NU 445.

NU 444. BSN Capstone Practice (with 42 Practicum Hours). 3 Hours.

This is the culminating scholarly experience in the RN-to-BSN program of study. Students will focus on synthesis and integration of complex concepts relevant to their scope of practice, and leadership and management skills in complex organizational environments. Emphasis is placed on the application of leadership principles through an evidence-based capstone project. This course is offered in a hybrid format. Prerequisite(s): NU 441 and NU 442 and NU 443 and NU 706 and NU 710 and NU 740.

NU 445. Evidence Based Practice for the Professional Nurse. 3 Hours.

In this course, students address the role of research and evidence based practice in professional nursing practice. Theories, concepts and research methodologies are analyzed using case studies. Students create a final written paper on an evidence based practice topic. Emphasis is placed on inquiry as a tool to advance nursing knowledge and to promote evidence based practice for improved healthcare outcomes. This course has writing intensive assignments that require the student to write, critique, revise, critique, final revision. Prerequisite(s): (EH 105 or EH 124) and NU 212 and NU 214 and NL 212 and NL 214.

NU 446. Practice Science and Skills for the Professional Nurse. 3 Hours.

In this course, students integrate science and skills in pathophysiology, pharmacology, and nursing assessment address physiological adaptations, health promotion and disease prevention across the lifespan. The course helps the practicing nurse advance professional practice skills and develop increased ability in problem solving and clinical reasoning. Prerequisite(s): NU 441.

NU 447. Leadership Development for the Professional Nurse. 3 Hours.

This course assists students to create a vision for themselves as leaders in healthcare. Course content focuses on the evaluation of theory models and concepts with emphasis on leadership and transformation for application in healthcare. Students will address concepts related to administrative and leadership roles and competencies for care delivery in complex and rapidly changing health care environments. Prerequisite(s): NU 441.

NU 448. Interprof. Collaboration in Rural Pub. Hlth. for the Prof NU. 3 Hours.

This course introduces the concepts of interprofessional and intraprofessional education into the study of community and rural public health. Students are provided experiential learning opportunities with a focus on community and rural public health and health disparities locally, regionally, and nationally. Prerequisite(s): NU 441.

NU 449. Health Policy Issues and Challenges for the Prof. Nurse. 3 Hours.

This course is designed to provide students with an overview of the U.S. health care system, its components, and the policy challenges created by organizations and their impact on public health and the health care system. The use of sociopolitical and ethical frameworks are employed to define researchable policy questions, critically analyze policy issues and problems, articulate relevant policy options and bring research skills and data to help frame decision-making.

NU 455. Gerontological Nursing for the Professional Nurse. 3 Hours.

The course affords the practicing nurse an opportunity to develop knowledge, skills, and attitudes that will help in providing and coordinating health care for the older adult population. Content addresses the physical, emotional, psychosocial, and spiritual needs of the older adult. Using the nursing process, the focus on individual and caregiver issues are developed into nursing skills to promote healthy aging practice and policy. Students engage in experiential learning in this course.

NU 456. Interpretation of Electrocardiograms. 1 Hour.

This course builds upon students’ knowledge of anatomy, physiology, chemistry, and the nursing process. It is designed to provide the knowledge required for the interpretation and treatment of various normal and abnormal cardiac rhythms. Prerequisite(s): NU 322.

NU 457. IV Therapy and Management. 2 Hours.

This course provides an overview of the scope of practice for nurses providing infusion therapy to clients. The course is designed to enable the student to identify the essential components of safe intravenous therapy. Concepts include, but are not limited to, ethical elements, legal aspects, documentation, infection prevention and safety compliance, equipment; vascular access insertion, care and maintenance; and infusion related complications. Prerequisite(s): NU 322.

NU 495. Capstone for the Professional Nurse. 4 Hours.

This is the culminating scholarly experience in the RN-to-BSN program of study. Students synthesize and integrate complex concepts relevant to their scope of practice, leadership, and management skills in organizational environments. Emphasis is placed on the application of leadership principles through an evidence-based capstone project.

NU 499. Topic/. 1-3 Hour.

Selected topics in nursing are considered. The course enhances students’ knowledge of professional nursing, building upon previous knowledge of the nursing and research processes. Emphasis is placed on increasing awareness of current professional issues in nursing.

NU 700. Theories and Roles for Advanced Nursing Practice. 3 Hours.

This course is designed to provide an opportunity to analyze theoretical concepts, principles and processes from nursing and related disciplines to guide advanced clinical practice and role development. The importance of the role of the Advanced Practice Nurse in Interprofessional Collaboration is also explored. Emphasis is placed on the relevant historic, current and future practice issues inherent in the varied aspects of advanced practice nursing. The course also examines legislative issues and trends at both state and national levels, as they relate to the effective and appropriate role of advanced practice nurses within our rapidly changing healthcare system.

NU 701. Theories for Advanced Nursing Practice. 2 Hours.

This course provides an opportunity to analyze theoretical concepts, principles and processes from nursing and related disciplines to guide advanced clinical practice and role development. These theories reflect important contributions from both the nursing profession and non-nursing disciplines. The course provides a historical perspective and analysis of nursing theorists from Nightingale to emerging theorists and includes an introduction to theories fundamental to advanced practice nursing, such as role theory and family nursing theory.

NU 702. Advanced Pharmacotherapeutics. 3 Hours.

This course builds upon undergraduate understanding of pharmacological principles and agents by preparing students to evaluate and prescribe medications for common acute and chronic health problems seen in the primary care setting. Students examine the regulatory aspects of drug administration and prescription from the perspective of advanced nursing practice. The focal point of the class is on the development of clinical decision-making skills essential to safe and effective pharmacologic intervention. Current concepts in pharmacologic therapies as part of the treatment of commonly encountered health problems are stressed. The course also addresses the importance of collaboration between Advanced Practice Nurses and Pharmacy colleagues, particularly in regard to patient safety and treatment efficacy.

NU 703. Roles for Advanced Nursing Practice. 2 Hours.

This course provides an in-depth analysis of the role of the advanced practice nurse. That knowledge is needed to conceptualize and identify with relevant historic, current and future practice issues inherent in the role. Both state and national legislation and trends are addressed, as they relate to the effective and appropriate use of advanced practice nurses within the rapidly changing healthcare system.

NU 704. Advanced Health Assessment. 3 Hours.

The course is designed to enable the graduate nursing student to develop diagnostic reasoning skills and to utilize a regional approach to physical examination. Instruction builds upon the health assessment skills of the professional nurse's basic education program. Students perform complete physical exams, obtain health histories, and document findings. Students learn the importance of providing high-quality, culturally competent care, the process of developing a list of differential diagnoses, and appropriate ordering of diagnostics.

NU 705. Advanced Psychopharmacology. 3 Hours.

This course reviews the application of pharmacotherapeutic principles to psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. Major class of medications include antidepressants, mood stabilizers, psychostimulants, antipsychotic medications, anxiolytics and off label use. Students review in detail the indications, contraindications, side effects and adverse reactions and drug interactions. In addition, the course addresses the use of herbal remedies, homeopathy and diet. The course places special emphasis on the applications of psychopharmacology to clinical case studies across the lifespan, including children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric populations. Prerequisite(s): NU 700 and NU 702 and NU 706 and NU 707.

NU 706. Advanced Pathophysiology. 3 Hours.

This course examines the reaction of the body to disease throughout the lifespan. Using a conceptual approach that is designed to integrate knowledge from basic and clinical sciences, it focuses on alterations in biological processes which affect the body’s dynamic equilibrium. Alterations at the cellular and organ level are presented and include genetic, metabolic, infectious, immunologic, degenerative, and neoplastic processes. Clinical problems will be developed and explored to facilitate the acquisition of critical thinking, problem-solving and evaluation skills needed by practitioners in the management of clients with chronic and acute health problems.

NU 707. Neurobiology. 3 Hours.

This course focuses on the study of brain, mind and behavior and examines the neuroanatomical, neurophysiological, and biochemical foundations of cognition, mood, emotion, affect, and behavior and the interactions among them. It takes into consideration both internal and external influences across a person’s life span. Included is an overview of brain functioning and mechanisms of neurotransmission, genetics, the effects of other body systems such as the endocrine and immune systems, temperament, and the environment. Prerequisite(s): NU 706.

NU 708. Socio-Cultural Perception of Addiction and Population Health. 3 Hours.

This course focuses on the impact of sociocultural factors on health, treatment, and communities. Global health systems will be studied to identify access, resources, and barriers within the framework of the sociocultural model. Emphasis will be on addictions and the disease process, epidemiology, options for treatment, and medication assisted treatment. Other topics will include interprofessional collaboration, rural healthcare, and special populations.

NU 709. Diagnosis & Pharmacologic Management of Psychiatric Illness. 3 Hours.

This course furthers the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner's knowledge of pathophysiology and pharmacology with an emphasis on psychiatric illness. It covers brain functioning and mechanisms of neurotransmission, genetics, the effects of other body systems such as the endocrine and immune systems, temperament, and the environment across the lifespan. Students also review the application of pharmacotherapeutic principles to psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. Prerequisite(s): NU 702.

NU 710. Advanced Evidence Based Practice. 3 Hours.

This course provides a foundational overview of Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) for health care professionals. Students acquire an understanding of research design principles for the purpose of implementing EBP to address real world clinical issues. Content focuses on articulating EBP questions, undertaking systematic searches of the academic research literature, and critical appraisal of evidence to inform clinical decisions and practice. The objective is for students to embrace evidence based protocol for the translation of best available evidence that improves the health of individuals, groups and populations. Prerequisite(s): NU 801 and NU 802 and NL 801 and NL 802.

NU 711. Patho/Pharm/Physical Assessment of Advanced Practice. 3 Hours.

This course provides the essential knowledge required to obtain a comprehensive health assessment across the lifespan. Physiologic effects and clinical manifestations of specific diseases, as well as pharmacotherapeutic agents used to treat or affect health status are integrated to provide support of clinical decision making.

NU 740. Public Health Policy Issues and Challenges. 3 Hours.

This course is designed to provide the graduate student with an opportunity to explore and evaluate the political process, fiscal policies, and their impact on public health and the health care system. The use of sociopolitical and ethical frameworks are interwoven with policy development. Opportunities are provided for students to critique public policy and determine how the behavior of health professional’s impact governmental decisions and regulatory processes. Students will explore legislative processes, state/federal policies, and analyze current legislative and policy issues.

NU 799. Special Topics in Nursing. 1-3 Hour.

Selected topics in nursing are offered under the guidance of graduate faculty. The course enhances students knowledge of advanced practice nursing, building on previous knowledge of nursing and healthcare in today’s complex and rapidly changing healthcare system. This course may be used as an elective in the student’s program of study and may be taken more than once as long as different topics are taken.

NU 801. Family Psychiatric Nursing I - Adv Mental Health Assessment. 3 Hours.

This course develops advanced mental health assessment skills. It covers the processes of psychiatric history-taking, mental status examination, and biological and neurological assessment for clients throughout the lifespan. Students prepared to use the Diagnostic Statistical Manual (DSM). CO-REQUISITE: In the corresponding hands-on practicum experience, students perform comprehensive mental health assessments, determine DSM diagnoses, and participate in treatment care planning, including the possible need for medication, medication management for clients, and alternative treatments. Prerequisite(s): NU 700 and NU 702 and NU 704 and NU 709 and NU 706.

NU 802. Family Health I -- Adult-Gero Health. 3 Hours.

This course explores relevant practice issues in the health care of adults and families. The primary focus is on the assessment of acute and chronic health problems experienced by this population, as well as health promotion/disease prevention activities. CO-REQUISITE: In the corresponding hands-on practicum experience, students are given an opportunity to provide primary care to adults of any age. Students further explore the inter-professional collaborative role in the classroom and analogous clinical setting. Prerequisite(s): NU 700 and NU 702 and NU 704 and NU 706.

NU 806. Family Health III -- Integrating Primary Care. 3 Hours.

This is the culminating course in the program. The focus is on synthesizing the knowledge and clinical management skills from previous courses in preparation for the transition from graduate student to the novice nurse practitioner. The course emphasizes the importance of integrating patient care by collaborating with other healthcare providers, particularly in regard to improving patient safety and health outcomes. CO-REQUISITE: In the corresponding hands-on practicum experience, students explore both clinical and non-clinical issues frequently noted in primary care. At the same time, students become familiar with the newest clinical guidelines for disorders most commonly seen in primary care. Prerequisite(s): NU 802 and NU 815.

NU 807. Family Health II -- Pediatrics (45 Internship Hours). 3 Hours.

This course explores the theories and practice of health care for children, from infancy through adolescence, within a context of family health care. It focuses on health promotion and acute and chronic illness conditions experienced by childbearing and child-rearing families. This course also emphasizes health-illness issues experienced by members in this group in underserved rural and urban areas. The clinical practicum presents the advanced practice nursing student with experience in assessing, planning, and managing care for families in these age groups at a variety of clinical sites. Opportunities are available in both the classroom and clinical setting to further explore the roles inherent to the advanced practice nurse. Prerequisite(s): NU 700 and NU 702 and NU 704 and NU 706.

NU 808. Family Health III -- Women’s Health (135 Internship Hours). 6 Hours.

This course explores the theories and practice of healthcare for women within the context of the family. It also focuses on health promotion and acute or chronic illness that may be experienced particularly by childbearing families. The internship will present the family nurse practitioner student with precepted experiential learning in assessing, planning and managing women’s health from a primary care perspective. Particular emphasis will be placed on the importance of collaborating with other health care professionals in order to achieve patient safety and optimal health outcomes. Prerequisite(s): NU 700 and NU 702 and NU 704 and NU 706.

NU 809. Adv Women's Health Assessment II (w/168 Intern Hrs). 6 Hours.

Building on previous study in women’s health, students begin to critically examine and address concepts and research related to issues of women from adolescence to menopause. This course focuses on the advanced practice nursing knowledge necessary for the comprehensive assessment and health management of individuals and families during the childbearing years. Particular attention will be paid to the pre-, ante- and post-natal periods. Concepts include human sexuality, disease prevention, pregnancy/childbirth and urogynecological issues as well as the social and political determinants of health. Prerequisite(s): NU 808.

NU 810. Family Psychiatric Nursing II -Across the Lifespan. 3 Hours.

This course focuses on the psychiatric nurse practitioner’s role in the delivery of mental health care for mentally ill individuals and families across the lifespan. Students examine the theories relevant to family therapy and individual psychotherapy, as well as psychopharmacological and alternative treatments. CO-REQUISITE: In the corresponding hands-on practicum experience, students focus on the application of family interventions and therapy as well as individual interventions and psychotherapy in acute and chronic care settings. Populations primarily include children and adolescents and may include adults and geriatric individuals with a family focus. Prerequisite(s): NU 801 and NL 801.

NU 811. Women's Health Iss - A Public Health Approach to Care & Pol. 3 Hours.

Consistent with the emerging definitions of women’s health and women’s health practice, this course examines a full range of health issues unique to women. Women’s health specialization includes prevention, the societal and political determinants of health, patient education and reconceptualization of women’s relationships with health care providers. Health assessment and maintenance as well as disease identification and treatment will be presented on a wellness to illness continuum. Students develop a woman-centered holistic approach to care--the central concept in women’s health nursing practice.

NU 812. Family Psychiatric Nursing III-Psychiatric Nursing w/Groups. 3 Hours.

This culminating course focuses on the psychiatric nurse practitioner’s role in the delivery of primary mental health care across the lifespan. The course and the corresponding hands-on practicum experience (CO-REQUISITE) emphasize the promotion of optimum mental health, preventing mental illness, health maintenance, and preventing new occurrences of mental illness. Students examine theories relevant to a focus on group therapy interventions and consultation, as well as psychopharmacological and alternative treatments. The advanced practice nursing student develops interventions and programs that reduce stressors and maximize mental health for individuals of all ages and communities. Prerequisite(s): NU 801 and NU 810 and NL 801 and NL 810.

NU 813. Advanced Women's Health Assessment III (w/168 Intern Hrs). 6 Hours.

Students in this course will examine the unique issues and needs of the peri- and post-menopausal woman. There will be significant focus on the issues of healthy aging, sexuality, urogynecologic and hormonal changes affecting women as they move beyond the childbearing years. Prerequisite(s): NU 808 and NU 809.

NU 814. Family Psychiatric Nursing III (210 Clinical Hours). 6 Hours.

In this course, the psychiatric nurse practitioner’s role is further developed as the learner integrates psychiatric theory and practice skills while intervening with the chronic mentally ill in rural settings. Emphasis is on integration of psychotherapeutic, pharmacological, alternative therapeutic approaches, including crisis intervention and case management. During the practicum experiences, students coordinate care and advocate for special populations of individuals, families, and groups across the lifespan. Prerequisite(s): NU 812.

NU 815. Fam Hlth II–Fam Centered Care of Women, Infants & Children. 3 Hours.

This course explores the theories and practice of healthcare for women, infants, and children within the context of the family. It also focuses on health promotion and acute or chronic illness which may be experienced particularly by these populations. CO-REQUISITE: In the corresponding hands-on practicum experience, the family nurse practitioner student is presented with precepted experiential learning in assessing, planning, and managing women, infant, and child health from a primary care perspective. Particular emphasis is placed on the importance of collaborating with other health care professionals in order to achieve patient safety and optimal health outcomes. Prerequisite(s): NU 802 and NL802C.

NU 816. Psychiatric NP Internship/Practicum. 3 Hours.

Class - 1.5 Credits, Clinical - 9 Hours/Week (Total 126 Hours) This is an intensive clinical internship that prepares students to practice in the role of a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Building on biopsychosocial theories, the student will deliver comprehensive holistic primary mental health care to clients. Students will conduct comprehensive assessment, including diagnosis of and referral for physical health problems. Additionally, clinical experiences will include ordering and interpreting laboratory and diagnostic studies. Comprehensive medication management of psychiatric clients will include an in-depth knowledge of psychotropic medications, acceptable prescribing practices and monitoring for side effects and efficacy. Students will present case studies with decision-making trees during seminars to explore relevant clinical and non-clinical issues. Prerequisite(s): NU 702 and NU 704 and NU 706.

NU 818. Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Practicum. 2 Hours.

This is an intensive clinical internship that prepares students to practice in the role of a family psychiatric nurse practitioner. It will broaden the depth of content and practice that students have already assimilated in the areas of child and adolescent psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Building on biopsychosocial theories, the student will deliver holistic primary mental health care to clients. Students will conduct comprehensive assessments, including diagnosis of and referral for physical health problems. Clinical experiences will be on therapeutic treatment modalities and interventions with children and adolescents, including therapy and psychopharmacology. Therapy content will cover a range of therapeutic interventions from analytical to behavioral, family, individual and group and long term to brief therapy. Psychopharmacological content will include ordering and interpreting laboratory and diagnostic studies, in-depth knowledge of psychotropic medications, acceptable prescribing practices, monitoring for side effects and efficacy, risk verses benefit and an understanding of normal growth and development and what constitutes psychopathology. Students will present case studies with decision-making trees during seminars to explore relevant clinical and nonclinical issues.

NU 821. Strategy & Analysis of Organizational Process. 3 Hours.

This course focuses on the role of leaders in complex healthcare organizations. The student examines theories and processes for conflict resolution, negotiation skills, operations management, and strategic planning across the continuum of care in healthcare organizations. Topics of study include informatics, legal issues, organizational management, and healthcare economics. The graduate healthcare professions student is prepared to lead change in healthcare systems to improve outcomes.

NU 825. Adult-Gerontology Acute Care I. 3 Hours.

This on-line, didactic course is designed for the practicing nurse practitioner who seeks to gain additional knowledge and skills related to the care of adult gerontology and acutely ill patients, with a specific focus on chronic disease. Particular focus is placed on specific issues related to the older adult such as cardiac, pulmonary, neurologic, renal, gastrointestinal, psychiatric, and infectious disease. Additionally, the course will highlight immune dysfunction and rheumatologic disorders, hematology, and oncology, along with other issues specific to the older adult. This course examines the epidemiologic, assessment, diagnostic, management, and evaluation of chronically ill adults across the age spectrum. An emphasis on evidence-based practice, and medical management including pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic modalities is also discussed. CO-REQUISITE: In the corresponding hands-on practicum experience, the adult-geri acute care nurse practitioner student is prepared to build a strong foundation in the management of chronic disease, to be able to assess, diagnose, and treat adult and geriatric unstable chronic health conditions in the acute care environment. Prerequisite(s): NU 700 and NU 702 and NU 704 and NU 706.

NU 827. Adult-Gerontology Acute Care II. 3 Hours.

This on-line, didactic course further develops the knowledge and clinical skill set related to the diagnosis, treatment, and evaluation of adult and geriatric patients with episodic and chronic health conditions in the acute care environment. Emphasis is placed on the formation and evaluation of evidence-based plans of care for both acute and chronic multisystem disorders in adult and geriatric patients. Particular focus is on critical care pharmacological treatments, hemodynamics, and vascular access, cardiac emergencies, respiratory failure, mechanical ventilation, nervous system disorders, and the management of acute psychiatric patients. CO-REQUISITE: In the corresponding hands-on practicum experience, the interdisciplinary collaborative approach to the medical management of patients is emphasized. Prerequisite(s): NU 825 and NL825C.

NU 828. Adult-Gerontology Acute Care III. 3 Hours.

This on-line, culminating didactic course further develops the knowledge and clinical skill set related to the diagnosis, treatment, and evaluation of adult and geriatric patients with episodic and chronic health conditions in the acute care environment. Emphasis is placed on the formation and evaluation of evidence-based plans of care for both acute and chronic multisystem disorders in adult and geriatric patients. Particular focus is on nephrology, endocrine, acid-base disorders, gastrointestinal disorders, nutrition and metabolism, surgical and trauma guidelines, and infectious disease in the critical care setting. CO-REQUISITE: In the corresponding hands-on practicum experience, there is continued emphasis on the interdisciplinary and collaborative team approach to patient care. Prerequisite(s): NU 825 and NU 827 and NL825C and NL827C.

NU 830. Theories and Strategies of Teaching and Learning. 3 Hours.

This course explores the design, development, and implementation of theoretical foundations and strategies of teaching and learning in healthcare and educational environments that will promote effective and efficient healthcare delivery.

NU 832. Curriculum Development. 3 Hours.

This course focuses on curriculum development that reflects contemporary health care trends and prepares graduates to function effectively within the context of continuously evolving nursing, health care and educational systems.

NU 834. Assessment and Evaluation. 3 Hours.

This course introduces learning evaluation concepts, including test and measurement, at the didactic, clinical, and programmatic levels. Course content includes strategies to assess and evaluate learning in the cognitive, psychomotor, and affective domains. Quality improvement, as well as legal and ethical considerations is explored within these concepts. Prerequisite(s): NU 700 and NU 702 and NU 704 and NU 706 and NU 740 and NU 710 and NU 730.

NU 835. Curriculum Development, Assessment and Evaluation. 3 Hours.

This course focuses on curriculum development, assessment, and evaluation which reflect contemporary health care trends. It also prepares graduates to function effectively within the context of continuously evolving nursing, healthcare and educational systems.

NU 836. Healthcare Informatics and Technology. 3 Hours.

This course explores health care informatics. Students apply computer technology principles to the management of individuals, groups, and/or organizations in the role of health systems leader, educator, and/or clinical informatist. Emphasis is on becoming knowledgeable and competent with available resources useful in patient care and educational settings. Students also develop additional skills using a variety of software applications.

NU 838. Internship/Clinical Practicum. 4 Hours.

This course synthesizes educational theories, research, and strategies in applying the roles of the educator in teaching clients, students, and/or care providers. It addresses administrative and leadership roles and competencies for care delivery in complex and rapidly changing health care environments. Selected educational settings provide opportunities to practice the roles of the educator under guidance of qualified preceptors. This internship / practicum includes 90 clinical hours in an educational setting and 90 clinical hours in a leadership setting.

NU 840. Graduate Nursing Capstone. 3 Hours.

This is the culminating scholarly experience in the master’s program. Through this experience, graduate nursing students demonstrate mastery of a particular subject area in their specialty track by developing a scholarly project, including an evidence-based review of that topic. The scholarly project is based on the current information used by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s Position Statement on Defining Scholarship for the the Discipline of Nursing, which includes significance to the profession, creativity, documentation, replication, and peer review. The course allows students to develop a scholarly project in close advisement with a faculty mentor(s) and to present that scholarship through a formal presentation, submitted paper, and/or a manuscript for publication or professional presentation. Prerequisite(s): NU 710.