Course Descriptions
Course Title: Nursing 1A and 1B – Fundamentals of Nursing
Level: 1A and 1B Clock Hours: Theory: 183 (134/49) Clinical: 226 (149/77) Prerequisites: None
Course Description
This course introduces students to the field of nursing and the various roles of the nurse. Emphasis is placed on developing the knowledge and skills necessary to deliver safe, high-quality care. Students will learn the theoretical foundations of basic assessment and nursing techniques, with opportunities to apply these skills in both the Skills Lab and Clinical settings. The course also introduces the nursing process, providing a foundational framework for clinical decision-making. It is divided into two parts: N1A and N1B.
Nursing 1A focuses on fundamental aspects of nursing care, including patient hygiene, safety, body positioning, physical assessment, and the measurement of vital signs. Additional topics include diagnostic testing, principles of asepsis and infection control, basic nutrition, oxygenation, and care of the geriatric patient. These areas form the foundation for safe and effective nursing practice.
Nursing 1B focuses on nursing care related to bowel and bladder elimination, musculoskeletal injuries, surgical procedures, cancer care, and the physical and emotional aspects of loss, death, and dying. Emphasis is placed on developing the skills and understanding necessary to provide compassionate, evidence-based care across these areas.
Course Title: Anatomy and Physiology
Level: 1A Clock Hours: Theory: 100 Clinical: 0 Prerequisites: None
Course Description
This course provides a foundational understanding of basic anatomy and physiology as the theoretical framework for exploring human structure and function in relation to health and disease. Utilizing a body-systems approach, the course examines the levels of organization within the human body and the impact of disease processes on individual systems as well as the body as a whole.
Course Title: Pharmacology
Level: 1A Clock Hours: Theory: 67 Clinical: 0 Prerequisites: None
Course Description
This course reviews fundamental mathematical concepts with an emphasis on the ratio and proportion method used in dosage calculation to ensure safe medication administration. It introduces key principles of pharmacology, including pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, common adverse effects, side effects, and contraindications. The course places particular emphasis on drug classifications and the nursing responsibilities associated with safe and effective medication administration across the lifespan.
Course Title: Professions and Vocations – 1
Level: 1B Clock Hours: Theory: 23 Clinical: 0 Prerequisites: None
Course Description
This course explores the personal and professional qualities essential for success as a practical nursing student, with a focus on ethical, legal, and moral responsibilities. Basic communication skills are integrated throughout the course to support effective patient and team interactions. Students are introduced to the role of the practical nurse as a vital member of the healthcare team, providing care to culturally diverse populations. The concept of clinical decision making is also introduced as a foundational component of nursing practice.
Course Title: Nursing 2 – Medical Surgical Nursing
Level: 2 Clock Hours: Theory: 280 Clinical: 412 Prerequisites: Level 1 courses
Course Description
This course focuses on nursing care of adult and older adult patients experiencing common medical-surgical and mental health conditions, using a body systems framework. Emphasis is placed on the management of physiological disorders, as well as psychological and emotional stressors encountered in both acute and long-term care settings. Clinical experiences allow students to apply theoretical knowledge and provide safe, effective care in real-world environments. Throughout the course, students will develop skills in parenteral medication administration, patient care management, and professional therapeutic communication.
Course Title: Nursing 3 – Maternal Child and Pediatric Nursing
Level: 3 Clock Hours: Theory: 84 Clinical: 118 Prerequisites: Level 1 and Level 2 courses
Course Description
This course provides an integrative, family-centered approach to maternity and pediatric nursing, highlighting the ways in which infants and children differ from adults. Emphasis is placed on normal pregnancies, growth and development and common pediatric disorders. Clinical experiences provide the student an opportunity to apply theoretical concepts and to provide safe patient care to childbearing women and children in selected settings.
Course Title: Professions and Vocations – 2
Level: 3 Clock Hours: Theory: 7 Clinical: 0 Prerequisites: Level 1 and 2 courses
Course Description
This course provides an overview of employment and educational opportunities for practical nurses. It covers essential work skills, including securing, maintaining, and terminating employment. Additionally, the course addresses the process for state licensing and preparation for the NCLEX-PN examination.