Course Descriptions
Practical Nursing
PNUR 116T Nursing Arts/Clinical I (Ends Aug 2012)
An introduction to practical skills that support health promotion. Topics include acquiring basic knowledge and skills in the health promotion interventions of assessment of health status, environment, promotion of independence, activity and comfort, personal care skills and care skills for those with mental and physical challenges.
Prerequisite: Admission to program.
PNUR 117T Practicum I
An opportunity to integrate theory into practice, working with selected individuals with physical and mental challenges in a variety of settings.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Semester I theory and lab courses.
PNUR 118T Nursing Arts/Clinical II (Ends Aug 2012)
An examination of the challenges of caring for the older adult in diverse care settings, augmenting the holistic view of care. Topics include the accurate and comprehensive assessment of the older adult client as a unique individual.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester I courses and enrolment in Semester II theory courses.
PNUR 119T Practicum II (Ends Aug 2012)
An opportunity to integrate theory into practice in caring for the older adult in diverse care settings, including adult day care, long-term care, extended care and psychogeriatric care.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester II theory and lab courses.
PNUR 122T Nursing Arts/Clinical III (Ends Aug 2012)
A study of caring for individuals requiring medical-surgical care. Topics include preoperative, postoperative and postnatal care techniques; and intravenous and transfusion therapy.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester II courses and enrolment in Semester III theory courses.
PNUR 123T Practicum III (Ends Aug 2012)
An opportunity to integrate theory into practice in caring for individuals in medical-surgical acute care settings.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester III theory and lab courses.
PNUR 124T Preceptorship (Ends Aug 2012)
An opportunity to make the transition from student to graduate, through a 5-week preceptorship with a practicing professional.
Prerequisite: PNUR 153T, PNUR 163T, PNUR 183T, PNUR 122T, and PNUR 123T.
PNUR 142T Pharmacology (Ends Aug 2012)
An introduction to the basic concepts of pharmacology. Topics include basic concepts and guidelines pertaining to medication administration including lifespan considerations for specific age groups, routes of medication administration, pain management, administering medications in the acute care setting, and titration of medication dosages.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester I courses.
PNUR 151T Health I: Health Promotion/Prevention (Ends Aug 2012)
An introduction to the concept of health as a process, rather than a goal. Topics include integration of body, mind and spirit, and health promotion throughout the lifespan.
Prerequisite: Admission to program.
PNUR 152T Health II: Gerontology (Ends Aug 2012)
An examination of theories of aging, including a demographic profile of the older adult, the aging family, adjusting to the aging process, women and aging, community resources, and the promotion of positive attitudes towards the aged.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester I courses.
PNUR 153T Health III: Acute/Chronic Care (Ends Aug 2012)
An analysis of various approaches to health care for those in secondary level of care (acute care), including health promotion programs, and the importance of collaboration between various health sectors to support client self-determination and care.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester II courses.
PNUR 161T Healing I: Health Promotion/Prevention (Ends Aug 2012)
An introduction to healing as a holistic concept, including complementary approaches to healing as well as the more traditional. Topics include the effects of loss, death, role changes, dysfunctional families; special needs of the physically and mentally challenged; and primary health care.
Prerequisite: Admission to program.
PNUR 162T Healing II: Gerontology (Ends Aug 2012)
An introduction to gerontology, gerontological caregiving, and the related legal/ethical considerations. Topics include age-related changes in all body systems, as well as gerontological nursing in all settings.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester I courses.
PNUR 163T Healing III: Acute/Chronic Care (Ends Aug 2012)
A study of the promotion of health and healing including utilizing a holistic view of the body, mind and spirit; the caregiver's role as resource person, facilitator/planner, advocate, and partner.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester II courses.
PNUR 171T Human Relationships I (Ends Aug 2012)
An examination of how one's interpersonal style affects others. Topics include the helping relationship, group communication and the adaptation of communication for individuals with physical and mental challenges.
Prerequisite: Admission to program.
PNUR 172T Human Relationships II (Ends Aug 2012)
A study of effective communication with the older adult, both on a one-to-one basis and group communication.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester I courses.
PNUR 181T Professional Issues I (Ends Aug 2012)
An introduction to the evolution of practical nursing as a profession and its position within the health care system. Topics include the legal, ethical, philosophical and attitudinal bases for practice; the Bill of Rights for practitioner and client; the health care partnership; delegation; reporting and recording; and working within a team.
Prerequisite: Admission to program.
PNUR 183T Professional Issues II (Ends Aug 2012)
Intended to prepare the student for the role as a licensed practical nurse. Topics include standards of practice; professional and union affiliations; job search techniques including resume writing, interview skills and personal grooming; and transcribing physicians' orders.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester II courses.
PNUR 191T Human Anatomy and Physiology (Ends Aug 2012)
An overview of the structure and function of ten body systems, including various health promotion strategies that work toward their optimal function.
Prerequisite: Admission to program.
PRNU 101 Pharmacology I (Effective Sep 2012)
An introductory examination of the principles of pharmacology required to administer medications in a safe and professional manner. Topics include: medication administration; clinical decision making; various routes of medication administration; complementary, Indigenous, and alternative remedies; polypharmacy across the lifespan.
Prerequisite: Admission to the Practical Nursing Diploma program.
Co-requisites: PRNU 102, PRNU 103, PRNU 104, PRNU 105, and PRNU 106.
PRNU 102 Health Promotion I (Effective Sep 2012)
An introduction to the concepts of health promotion. Topics include: determinants of health; health inequities; normal growth and development; health enhancement strategies; health protection; disease prevention; health restoration/recovery, care, and support.
Prerequisite: Admission to the Practical Nursing Diploma program.
Co-requisites: PRNU 101, PRNU 103, PRNU 104, PRNU 105, and PRNU 106.
PRNU 103 Variations in Health I (Effective Sep 2012)
An introduction to disease and illness across the lifespan. Topics include: pathophysiological alterations of body systems; nursing management with an emphasis on interventions and treatment; cultural diversity in healing approaches; incorporation of evidenced-informed practice.
Prerequisite: Admission to the Practical Nursing Diploma program.
Co-requisites: PRNU 101, PRNU 102, PRNU 104, PRNU 105, and PRNU 106.
PRNU 104 Professional Communication I (Effective Sep 2012)
An experiential and self-reflective approach to promote self-awareness and interpersonal communication skills in the context of safe, competent, and collaborative nursing practice. Topics include the foundational knowledge for caring and professional communication in nursing, communication theory, the nurse-client relationship, therapeutic communication, cross-cultural communication, and effective teamwork.
Prerequisite: Admission to the Practical Nursing Diploma program.
Co-requisites: PRNU 101, PRNU 102, PRNU 103, PRNU 105, and PRNU 106.
PRNU 105 Professional Practice I (Effective Sep 2012)
An introduction to the profession of practical nursing. Topics include: legislation that informs practical nursing practice within British Columbia; the history of nursing and specifically the evolution of practical nursing within the Canadian health care system; the philosophy and foundational concepts of the provincial practical nursing program.
Prerequisite: Admission to the Practical Nursing Diploma program.
Co-requisites: PRNU 101, PRNU 102, PRNU 103, PRNU 104, and PRNU 106.
PRNU 106 Integrated Nursing Practice I (Effective Sep 2012)
A focus on the development of basic nursing care that emphasizes the art and science of nursing. Topics include: nursing knowledge through the practice of clinical decision making, nursing assessment skills, and nursing interventions aimed at the promotion of health, independence, and comfort; theory integration from other courses.
Prerequisite: Admission to the Practical Nursing Diploma program.
Co-requisites: PRNU 101, PRNU 102, PRNU 103, PRNU 104, and PRNU 105.
PRNU 107 Consolidated Practice Experience I (Effective Sep 2012)
An opportunity to integrate theory into practice in various settings with a focus on healthy clients. Topics include integration of personal care skills, organization of care, focused assessment, beginning medication administration, and professional communication relevant to the role of the practical nurse.
Prerequisite: PRNU 101, PRNU 102, PRNU 103, PRNU 104, PRNU 105, and PRNU 106.
PRNU 111 Pharmacology II (Effective Sep 2012)
A continuation of pharmacology in understanding pharmacotherapeutics prescribed for illnesses that clients experience across the lifespan. Topics include drug classifications, links with common diseases/illness based on a body system approach, and drug resistance.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester 1 courses, including PRNU 107.
Co-requisites: PRNU 112, PRNU 113, PRNU 114, PRNU 115, and PRNU 116.
PRNU 112 Health Promotion II (Effective Sep 2012)
A focus on health promotion as it relates to the aging process and continued independence. Topics include health-promotion activities aimed at supporting clients to maintain their physical and mental well-being, and normal aging changes.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester 1 courses, including PRNU 107.
Co-requisites: PRNU 111, PRNU 113, PRNU 114, PRNU 115, and PRNU 116.
PRNU 113 Variations in Health II (Effective Sep 2012)
A focus on the aging process and selected chronic illnesses, specifically the care of older adults experiencing a health challenge. Topics include cultural diversity in healing practices and evidence-informed research.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester 1 courses, including PRNU 107.
Co-requisites: PRNU 111, PRNU 112, PRNU 114, PRNU 115, and PRNU 116.
PRNU 114 Professional Communication II (Effective Sep 2012)
An opportunity to develop professional communication skills specific to older adults and clients requiring end-of-life care. Topics include communication as it relates to interprofessional relationships, knowledge, and skills.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester 1 courses, including PRNU 107.
Co-requisites: PRNU 111, PRNU 112, PRNU 113, PRNU 115, and PRNU 116.
PRNU 115 Professional Practice II (Effective Sep 2012)
An examination of legislation influencing practical nursing practice with clients experiencing chronic illness within the residential care setting. Topics include: responsibility, accountability, ethical practice, and leadership relevant to the role of the practical nurse; critical thinking and decision making specific to clients with chronic health challenges; interprofessional practice.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester 1 courses, including PRNU 107.
Co-requisites: PRNU 111, PRNU 112, PRNU 113, PRNU 114, and PRNU 116.
PRNU 116 Integrated Nursing Practice II (Effective Sep 2012)
A continuation of foundational courses, emphasizing the development of clinical decision-making ability, nursing assessments, and nursing interventions to promote the health of older adults. Topics include: theory integration; safe, competent, and ethical nursing care with older adults.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester 1 courses, including PRNU 107.
Co-requisites: PRNU 111, PRNU 112, PRNU 113, PRNU 114, and PRNU 115.
PRNU 117 Consolidated Practice Experience II (Effective Sep 2012)
An opportunity to integrate theory into practice in residential care settings, focusing on aging clients with chronic illnesses. Topics include medication administration, nursing care, organization, comprehensive health assessment, wound care, and introduction to leadership.
Prerequisite: PRNU 111, PRNU 112, PRNU 113, PRNU 114, PRNU 115, and PRNU 116.
PRNU 202 Health Promotion III (Effective Sep 2012)
A focus on health promotion for clients across the lifespan as it relates to the continuum of care within the community setting. Topics include: normal growth and development from conception to middle adulthood; health-promotion activities aimed at clients experiencing mental illness and physical/developmental disabilities; maternal/child health.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester 2 courses, including PRNU 117.
Co-requisites: PRNU 203, PRNU 204, PRNU 205, and PRNU 206.
PRNU 203 Variations in Health III (Effective Sep 2012)
A focus on the continuum of care and development of knowledge related to health challenges managed in the community setting. Topics include: pathophysiology and nursing care of clients requiring home health care, rehabilitation, and supportive services; cultural diversity in healing approaches; incorporation of evidence-informed practice and research.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester 2 courses, including PRNU 117.
Co-requisites: PRNU 202, PRNU 204, PRNU 205, and PRNU 206.
PRNU 204 Professional Communication III (Effective Sep 2012)
A focus on specific professional communication skills with clients across the lifespan within the community setting. Topics include collaboration with clients and health care team members.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester 2 courses, including PRNU 117.
Co-requisites: PRNU 202, PRNU 203, PRNU 205, and PRNU 206.
PRNU 205 Professional Practice III (Effective Sep 2012)
An introduction to practice in the community, utilizing the concepts from previous professional practice courses. Topics include the role of the practical nurse as leader in interactions with clients and their families, and other health care team members.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester 2 courses, including PRNU 117.
Co-requisites: PRNU 202, PRNU 203, PRNU 204, and PRNU 206.
PRNU 206 Integrated Nursing Practice III (Effective Sep 2012)
A continuation of theory integration as it relates to clients experiencing multiple health challenges within the community setting. Topics include utilization of the nursing process, including comprehensive nursing assessments, planning, and interventions.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester 2 courses, including PRNU 117.
Co-requisites: PRNU 202, PRNU 203, PRNU 204, and PRNU 205.
PRNU 207 Consolidated Practice Experience III (Effective Sep 2012)
An introduction to community and residential care settings for clients across the lifespan, focusing on the continuum of care. Topics include application and adaptation of knowledge, using a variety of approaches.
Prerequisite: PRNU 202, PRNU 203, PRNU 204, PRNU 205, and PRNU 206.
PRNU 212 Health Promotion IV (Effective Sep 2012)
A focus on health promotion for clients across the lifespan as it relates to exacerbations of chronic illness and/or acute episodes of illness. Topics include examination of health-promoting strategies during hospitalization to improve or help maintain clients' health status and prepare them for discharge from care.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester 3 courses, including PRNU 207.
Co-requisites: PRNU 213, PRNU 214, PRNU 215, and PRNU 216.
PRNU 213 Variations in Health IV (Effective Sep 2012)
A focus on pathophysiology as it relates to acute disease and illness of clients across the lifespan, specifically for clients experiencing acute illness. Topics include: nursing interventions and treatment options; implications of the acute exacerbation of chronic illness; cultural diversity in healing practices; evidenced-informed practice and research.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester 3 courses, including PRNU 207.
Co-requisites: PRNU 212, PRNU 214, PRNU 215, and PRNU 216.
PRNU 214 Professional Communication IV (Effective Sep 2012)
A focus on the advancement of professional communication with clients across the lifespan within the acute care setting. Topics include collaboration with clients and health care team members.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester 3 courses, including PRNU 207.
Co-requisites: PRNU 212, PRNU 213, PRNU 215, and PRNU 216.
PRNU 215 Professional Practice IV (Effective Sep 2012)
An exploration of the role of the practical nurse in caring for clients with acute presentation of illness. Topics include: legislation influencing practical nursing, professional and ethical practice issues in acute care environments and those that occur across the lifespan; collaborative practice with other health care team members.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester 3 courses, including PRNU 207.
Co-requisites: PRNU 212, PRNU 213, PRNU 214, and PRNU 216.
PRNU 216 Integrated Nursing Practice IV (Effective Sep 2012)
An emphasis on the development of nursing skills aimed at promoting health and healing with clients across the lifespan as it relates to acute health challenges. Topics include integration of new knowledge and skills related to the acute care setting.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester 3 courses, including PRNU 207.
Co-requisites: PRNU 212, PRNU 213, PRNU 214, and PRNU 215.
PRNU 217 Consolidated Practice Experience IV (Effective Sep 2012)
An opportunity to integrate and consolidate theory into practice in acute care and practice areas with clients across the lifespan as it relates to exacerbations of chronic illness and/or episodes of acute illness. Topics include postoperative care, surgical wound management, intravenous therapy, focused assessment, and clinical decision making.
Prerequisite: PRNU 212, PRNU 213, PRNU 214, PRNU 215, and PRNU 216.
PRNU 218 Transition to Preceptorship (Effective Sep 2012)
An opportunity to prepare for preceptorship. Topics include simulation experiences and self-directed learning to increase competence and confidence.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all Semester 4 courses, including PRNU 217.
PRNU 219 Preceptorship (Effective Sep 2012)
An opportunity to demonstrate integration and consolidation of knowledge, skills, and abilities within the realities of the workplace and become practice ready.
Prerequisite: PRNU 218.