This course presents concepts, strategies, and guidelines necessary for the maintenance and promotion of personal and patient health. Content that builds on previous knowledge related to evidence-based practice (EBP) is introduced. Through case studies, students will have an opportunity to develop teaching strategies that lead patients toward optimal levels of wellness based on the tenets of EBP. Prerequisite: Licensure as a registered nurse Prerequisite or concurrent: N409 for Bridge students.

This course focuses on developing advanced health assessment skills appropriate for delivery of primary care to the adult/adolescent client/family. The course will provide the student with necessary skills to advance beyond basic history and physical examination to using diagnostic reasoning skills and critical thinking. Assessment skills will be refined for the determination of the health status of young, middle, and older adults in the clinical laboratory setting. Students will broaden their ability to recognize abnormal findings within the context of the physical examination. Core concepts will be included regarding promotion of health and wellness in the primary care setting. Emphasis will also be placed on the physical, developmental, psychosocial, cultural dimensions of clients in primary care. Practice sessions with faculty and colleagues will create an opportunity for students to refine communication, gathering of historical information, advanced physical assessment skills, and developing a plan of care that is mutually agreeable to the client/family. At the conclusion of the course, students will be expected to perform a complete health assessment, give a comprehensive case presentation which includes appropriate diagnostic reasoning and critical thinking.