Doctor of Nursing Practice
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a practice-focused doctorate comparable to advanced clinical degrees in other health disciplines such as Medical Doctor (MD), Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD), Doctor of Public Health (DrPH), and Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT). The degree represents the highest academic preparation for nursing practice, focusing on expanded scientific knowledge related to providing comprehensive direct care across all settings. Grounded in clinical practice, the DNP moves the focus of advanced practice nursing from the level of the individual patient to the population level by using a cross-population perspective to assess, manage, and evaluate common problems. The DNP is the preferred degree for advanced practice nursing.
The practitioner tracks prepare candidates to provide quality healthcare services to all members of the community, with an emphasis on meeting the unique healthcare needs of culturally diverse and underserved populations. Clinical experiences in a variety of hospitals and agencies in surrounding communities allow for synthesis of clinical judgment, assessment, diagnostic skills, and theory.
The Egan School has long been recognized for its commitment to individualizing instruction and educational experiences. Each student is assigned to a faculty advisor who works closely with students to mentor progression through the program. Academic counseling, individualized attention, and career planning are integral to the advisement process. Faculty members in the Egan School are exceptionally qualified by academic and clinical preparation. Many faculty are currently practicing in advanced practice roles.
For BSN-DNP students, we currently offer advanced practice specialties in family and psychiatric nurse practitioner, nurse midwifery, and nurse anesthesia. The BSN-DNP program requires 72-76 course credits for completion, depending on the selected track students enter. Students entering with a MSN are required to complete a minimum of 32 credits for the Post-Master's DNP.
Note: A total of 1000 practicum/immersion hours is required for the DNP, with the exception of the Nurse Anesthesia program which requires a minimum of 2250 hours. For MSN to DNP students, these hours include documented hours of supervision in an MSN program.
Program Outcomes
A graduate of the Egan School DNP program will be able to:
- Translate advanced nursing knowledge and knowledge from other disciplines into professional practice, guided by a social justice lens, a liberal humanistic approach, and the natural and social sciences.
- Lead holistic, person-centered care that is equitable, respectful, compassionate, coordinated, evidence-based and developmentally appropriate for diverse individuals.
- Design and guide population health priorities that span the public health continuum from prevention to disease management through community partnerships and collaboration with local government entities and others to improve equitable population health outcomes.
- Lead nursing scholarship to transform healthcare, and identify opportunities to apply evidence to improve patient outcomes and advance the nursing profession.
- Design principles of improvement science to enhance quality and safety to minimize risk of harm to patients and providers through both system effectiveness
- Develop partnerships with individuals, families, care team members, and communities, demonstrating professional communication and respect, to enhance the healthcare experience and improve outcomes.
- Design systems of health care delivery by organizing resources to provide safe, cost-effective, and equitable care to diverse populations.
- Interpret information, communication, and healthcare technologies to gather data, inform decision making, and manage and improve the delivery of safe, high-quality, efficient healthcare services in accordance with professional and regulatory standards.
- Provide mentorship for a sustainable professional identity that encompasses accountability, ethical principles, empathy, teamwork, and behaviors that reflect nursing’s characteristics and core values of altruism, autonomy, and human dignity.
- Initiate activities that support holistic well-being through self-care, reflection, and discernment to foster personal health, professional growth, lifelong learning, and acquisition of nursing expertise, resilience, and leadership qualities.
DNP Immersion Policy
BSN to DNP
DNP students in the FNP and PMHNP tracks who have exceeded the required clinical practicum hours in any semester may be awarded Immersion credits (in increments of 50 hours) for time in the clinical setting that is focused on the development of clinical skills above and beyond those required for the clinical course objectives. Students would be required to pay for the Immersion credit(s). In order to receive Immersion credit at the end of the semester, students would have to obtain the following approvals before undertaking the additional hours:
- Approval of the clinical Course Instructor, indicating that the student had met all clinical course objectives and had permission to accrue additional clinical hours for the purpose of developing additional skills.
- Additional approval of the student’s DNP Advisor and their Program Director.
- If a DNP student wants to do Immersion hours in an acute care facility (e.g. to learn skills beyond the requirements for their clinical practica), an Affiliation Agreement (AA) would need to be in place with the facility. It is the responsibility of the DNP Advisor to (1) determine if we have a current AA with the site and then (2) work with the Clinical Placement Team to determine how to get approval for the Immersion placement from the site.
MSN to DNP
Students in the Post-Master's DNP program are required to provide verification of their post-baccalaureate practice hours upon admission to the program. Letters of verification from the Master’s-granting University must be submitted on University letterhead. Effective Fall 2017, the Egan School will accept a maximum of 750 post-baccalaureate supervised practice hours from approved Masters’ level coursework. All students are required to complete 250 hours, which is equivalent to 5 credits, of immersion hours.
CCNE Accreditation
The Doctor of Nursing Practice program and/or postgraduate APRN certificate program at Fairfield University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
BSN to DNP Programs
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Nurse Anesthesia
- Nurse Midwifery
- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
MSN to DNP Programs
- Post-Masters DNP
- PMHNP Concentration
NURS 5110 Introduction to Professional Nursing 3 Credits
This course serves as a foundation to the development of the nurse as a professional person. Central to this is the awareness and acceptance of self. The process of clinical reasoning as an approach to the planning and delivery of nursing care to individuals, families, groups and communities is introduced. Discussion of nursing's history and accomplishments serves as the cornerstone for professional behaviors, including: scholarship, communication, collaboration, personal responsibility, accountability, integration of evidence based practice and peer- and self-evaluation. 42 theory hours. Undergraduate equivalent: NURS 1110.
NURS 5272 Geriatric Nursing 4 Credits
This course focuses on evidence-based nursing care of older adults living in long-term care settings. Normal physiological changes of aging and related assessment skills will be incorporated and evaluated using standardized assessment tools. Management of common geriatric care problems will be emphasized. Particular focus will be placed on the ethical and spiritual concerns of vulnerable older adult populations. Students will reflect upon how the nursing role merges with life goals, philosophy, and meaning to develop professional behaviors consistent with these aspects of life. 42 theory hours, 42 clinical hours. Undergraduate equivalent: NURS 2272.
NURS 5272C Geriatric Nursing Clinical 0 Credits
Geriatric Nursing Clinical
NURS 5305 Mental Health Nursing 4 Credits
The focus of this course is the nursing care of individuals with psychiatric disorders. A holistic approach based on theories of human behavior and personality as well as neurobiological, developmental, trauma-informed, and recovery-oriented models are used to plan and implement care in a variety of settings. Factors that may contribute to an individual developing a psychiatric disorder are discussed and ethical, legal, and cultural issues are considered when planning care. The development of a therapeutic nurse-patient relationship and use of communication techniques to promote healing are emphasized. 42 theory hours, 42 clinical hours. Undergraduate equivalent: NURS 3305.
NURS 5305C Mental Health Nursing Clinical 0 Credits
NURS 5307 Fundamentals of Nursing Care 4 Credits
In this course, evidence based practice is used as a guide for students to learn how to provide safe and effective patient care across the lifespan. In the laboratory setting, students perform basic to advanced psychomotor skills related to nursing care. Students also learn to effectively use an electronic health record to document clinical findings and care. 28 theory hours, 56 lab hours. Undergraduate equivalent: NURS 3307.
NURS 5307L Fundamentals of Nursing Care Lab 0 Credits
NURS 5312 Medical Surgical Nursing I 5 Credits
This course introduces the student to illnesses common in the adult population. The nursing process, theory, and evidence-based practice, are incorporated with clinical practice. An emphasis is placed on clinical reasoning and prioritizing patient care. Throughout the course, informatics is integrated as part of the documentation process for clinical experiences. 42 theory hours, 84 clinical hours. Undergraduate equivalent: NURS 3312.
NURS 5312C Medical Surgical Nursing Clinical 0 Credits
NURS 5314 Maternal and Newborn Nursing 4 Credits
This course is designed to provide students with the opportunity to assist the patient and family to cope with changes in reproductive and gynecological needs. The childbearing cycle including: pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum, lactation, care of the healthy newborn and perinatal complications, and theoretical models will be explored. Cultural, ethical and legal aspects of reproductive health across the lifespan will be examined. Emphasis is on development of clinical reasoning and evidence based practice skills related to the nursing care of women and childbearing families. 42 theory hours, 42 clinical hours. Undergraduate equivalent: NURS 3314.
NURS 5314C Maternal and Newborn Nursing Clinical 0 Credits
NURS 5323 Pediatric Nursing 4 Credits
This course utilizes a family centered care approach to provide an understanding of the unique anatomical, physiologic, and developmental differences among neonates, infants, children, adolescents, and young adults. Social and cultural influences on children and their families are discussed in addition to assessment, genetics, health promotion, injury prevention, acute and chronic illness, and palliative and end-of-life care. Students are challenged to implement effective communication techniques, clinical reasoning skills, and evidenced based practices when planning holistic and safe care for children and their families in a wide variety of clinical settings. 42 theory hours, 42 clinical hours. Undergraduate equivalent: NURS 4323.
NURS 5323C Pediatric Nursing Clinical 0 Credits
Pediatric Nursing Clinical
NURS 5325 Medical Surgical Nursing II 5 Credits
This course continues the study of nursing care for patients with illnesses common in the adult population. The theoretical framework of the nursing process is used to demonstrate effectiveness in planning and providing holistic evidence-based nursing care for diverse individuals and populations. Professional communication and interprofessional collaboration will be utilized in the delivery of patient-centered care. 42 theory hours, 84 clinical hours. Undergraduate equivalent: NURS 4325.
NURS 5325C Medical Surgical Nursing II Clinical 0 Credits
Medical Surgical Nursing II Clinical
NURS 5330 Population Health 4 Credits
This course focuses on the care of people in their homes, in communities, and around the world. Principals of disease prevention, risk reduction, and health promotion are applied to diverse populations in the USA and worldwide. Students synthesize prior experience and learning with public health theory to provide collaborative, quality care across the lifespan. Using an ecological model, students engage in evidence based care for individuals, families, groups, communities and populations. Global issues related to the impact of social policies on healthcare and health equity, and needs of vulnerable populations are also examined. 42 theory hours, 42 clinical hours. Undergraduate equivalent: NURS 4330.
NURS 5330C Population Health Clinical 0 Credits
NURS 5332 Transition to Professional Nursing 4 Credits
This capstone course addresses provision of holistic, evidence based care to patients and families in a variety of health care settings. Students have the opportunity to work as a member of the health care team with an individual agency preceptor across the course. The focus is on fostering student growth in clinical reasoning, clinical reasoning and leadership development to promote autonomous professional nursing practice within the clinical setting. Students develop a Capstone Project based on an identified learning need, for the patient, the patient's family, or for the nursing staff. 168 clinical hours. Undergraduate equivalent: NURS 4332.
NURS 5332C Transition to Professional Nursing Clinical 0 Credits
NURS 5360 Critical Care Nursing 3 Credits
Fee: $262 Nursing ECCO Fee
This elective course is an introduction to critical care nursing. The focus is placed on nursing diagnoses and evidence based practice in the care of the critically ill patient. Common issues such as ethical dilemmas, psychosocial challenges, and symptom management are discussed. Relevant nursing implications for the care of critically ill patients are addressed. Students also gain skills in advanced critical care, hemodynamic monitoring, and ventilator management. 42 theory hours. Undergraduate equivalent: NURS 4360.
NURS 6521 Healthcare Leadership Roles for Systems Improvement 3 Credits
Fee: $25 Nursing IHI Fee
This course provides evidence-based knowledge and skills to maximize the development of one's leadership role in evolving and challenging health care systems. Healthcare leadership roles will be explored from the perspectives of the interprofessional team members. Discussion and clinical application will focus on supporting students to develop their ability to be collaborative, knowledge-based decision makers and facilitators in the context of systems analysis and improvement. The intent of this course is to explore the many facets of leadership and health care improvement, and to examine strategies that will develop future leaders to promote health, improve outcomes and facilitate the design of high-performing systems that better serve patients, families, staff, and the organization. Students will develop proficiency in reflective practice, and evaluating and communicating data as a means to support systems improvement. 42 theory hours.
NURS 6523 Quality Outcomes Management I 5 Credits
Prerequisite(s): NURS 6521, NURS 7601, NURS 7604, NURS 7605, NURS 7608, NURS 7614, NURS 7640, NURS 7641.
Students in this course implement the interdisciplinary role of the Nurse Leader. Emphasis is placed on identifying patient outcomes and designing systems to effectively manage these outcomes. Under the mentorship of faculty and an agency preceptor, students implement clinical and teaching interventions to promote positive patient outcomes. Using leadership and management skills, students demonstrate clinical competence through implementation of various aspects of the nursing leadership role. Methods of evaluating patient outcomes are explored and implemented in clinical settings. Clinical conferences provide the framework for analyzing students' experiences in transitioning to the nursing leadership role. 28 theory hours; 150 clinical hours.
NURS 6524 Quality Outcomes Management II 5 Credits
Prerequisite(s): NURS 6523.
Students in this immersion experience implement the interdisciplinary role of the clinical nurse leader (CNL) to design systems for the effective management and evaluation of patient outcomes across the continuum of care. Under the mentorship of faculty and an agency preceptor, students complete, as their capstone project, an evidence-based organizational change that builds upon a clinical problem examined in previous courses. Projects integrate best practices, principles of effective leadership and negotiation skills, use of information systems to evaluate patient outcomes, and theories of organizational behavior in the design of their healthcare initiative. Clinical conferences provide a venue to analyze students' experiences in transitioning to the CNL role and to explore their role in creating the future of nursing. 250 clinical hours.
NURS 6951 Master's Leadership Practicum 4 Credits
Prerequisite(s): NURS 6521, NURS 7601, NURS 7604, NURS 7605, NURS 7608, NURS 7614, NURS 7620, NURS 7641.
This practicum builds upon experiences gained in the Master of Science in Nursing curriculum to expand student opportunities in leadership, quality improvement and other essential competencies. Students and faculty develop specific practicum goals that lead to increasing independence, knowledge and accountability in practice. Students work alongside leaders in a variety of healthcare settings to gain new perspectives of healthcare complexity and leadership skills. Practicum projects reflect collaboration, critical thinking, decision-making skills, and the ability to incorporate leadership process. The capstone is an analysis, synthesis, and utilization of knowledge from previous courses, learning experiences, evidence and insight into the dynamic needs of healthcare organizations.
NURS 6990 Independent Study 1-5 Credits
Through individually designed projects or activities, students work with a faculty member to study a specific area in depth. Enrollment by permission of the instructor and dean only.
NURS 7601 Epidemiology and Biostatistics 3 Credits
This course presents epidemiologic principles and biostatistical methods for the presentation and analysis of health-related data. Data from a variety of sources will be used to draw inferences about the health status of populations. Biostatistical techniques are used to examine relationships among contributing factors for population health in order to plan and evaluate health services and programs. Epidemiological methods for conducting studies will be discussed in detail, with an emphasis on group and population methods. Ethical issues related to the application of biostatistics and data privacy, such as IRB requirements, genomics, population genetics, clinical trials, and public health epidemiological studies are addressed.
NURS 7602 Healthcare Economics and Marketing 3 Credits
This course begins by applying microeconomic theory to the health sector of the U.S. economy with a focus on financial incentives throughout the healthcare system. Topics include the demand for healthcare and health insurance, quality improvement, managed care and the role of government. The U.S. experience is compared to healthcare systems in other countries. Evidence-based skills include cost analysis and business plan and budget development. 42 theory hours.
NURS 7604 Advanced Health Assessment 4 Credits
Prerequisite(s): Demonstrated competency in basic health assessment.
This core course focuses on the holistic and comprehensive health assessment of individuals and families from diverse populations. Its purpose is to provide a foundation for primary prevention and health promotion through appropriate screening and risk assessment. The course also includes history-taking, advanced physical examination, and the introduction of laboratory assessment data. The course provides students with the opportunity to develop the comprehensive assessment skills required for advanced nursing practice and advanced education generalist roles. Case analysis is used to integrate critical thinking and develop differential diagnosis and treatment plans for clients across environments of care. All students participate in a 1-credit nursing lab, which provides an opportunity to develop comprehensive health assessment skills at an advanced level. Clinical Exam fee for FNP students: Approximately $200. 28 theory hours, 56 lab hours.
NURS 7605 Advanced Health Policy 3 Credits
The focus of this course is on contemporary health policy, its development and implementation, and ways that public health and healthcare system leaders, can influence it. Students will evaluate the impact of health policy on health professionals, consumers, communities, and healthcare delivery systems. Resource allocation, along with the socioeconomic, political, legal, and ethical factors that influence health policy will be examined.
NURS 7608 Research Methods for Evidence-Based Practice 3 Credits
The purpose of this course is to provide the student with the skills needed to develop either a research study proposal or a healthcare improvement proposal. This course prepares the student to identify practice problems and critique current research for relevance and application to practice. An overview of theory is presented as a vehicle for understanding public health or healthcare research. Basic concepts of qualitative and quantitative research methods will be examined in order to plan and evaluate a practice change or answer a research question. Using an evidence-based and/or research approach, students identify a clinical or public health problem within a specific population or setting, considering ethical issues. Students will develop a research study proposal or healthcare improvement proposal for implementation. Students use reflection in the evaluation of public health or healthcare system research.
NURS 7609 Role Reflective Practice for MSN-DNP Students 1 Credit
This online module course introduces reflective practice, portfolio development, and health policy for the Doctorate of Nursing Practice student. The methods, processes, applications, benefits, and limitations of reflection and reflective practice are examined. Advanced practice roles of expert clinician, collaborator, educator, teacher, consultant, advocate, researcher and manager are addressed through exemplars of reflective praxis. Students identify and analyze a health policy issue and develop strategies to influence the political process toward change. 14 theory hours.
NURS 7610 Advanced Nursing Roles and Reflective Practice 3 Credits
This course examines advanced nursing roles within a reflective practice model. The methods, processes, applications, benefits, and limitations of reflection and reflective practice are discussed. Advanced nursing roles of expert clinician, collaborator, educator, teacher, consultant, advocate, researcher, and manager are addressed as exemplars of reflective praxis. An overview of the history of advanced nursing practice and reflective practice are discussed. In addition, practice issues are addressed including: the impaired professional, credentialing, regulation, legal, ethical, and cultural considerations. Communication, self-awareness, and partnership are promoted as integral to reflective advanced nursing practice. 42 theory hours.
NURS 7611 Social and Behavioral Determinants of Health 3 Credits
This course presents the foundational skills required for public health and healthcare provider students to engage in a systematic approach to population health. Disease prevention and health promotion are addressed through examination of social and behavioral determinants. Evidence-based strategies inform how to identify and assess at-risk populations, implement both preventive and therapeutic interventions, and evaluate outcomes at the population level. Models of health behavior change synthesize psychological, biophysical, cultural, ecological, environmental, and social dimensions to analyze population-based outcomes. The roles of national initiatives, public policy and cultural values are explored in relation to health equity to support population health at institutional, local, state, and national levels.
NURS 7612 Research Translation for Clinical Practice 3 Credits
This course focuses on the critical analysis, synthesis and application of qualitative and quantitative research methods for improvement of outcome indicators at the individual, family, system and population level. Emphasis will be placed on current paradigms of scholarship including Boyer's Model of Scholarship and the philosophy of reflective practice, bridging the gap between research and practice, and outcome assessment in healthcare. The evaluation of instruments to measure quantitative outcomes and methods of qualitative analysis will be examined, and ethical and legal considerations will be addressed as they relate to the IRB process. The process of identifying potential sources of grant funding and models of long-term program evaluation will also be explored. Students will develop an IRB-ready project proposal based upon a previously identified practice problem within their area of specialization. 42 theory hours.
NURS 7613 Finance and Quality Management in Healthcare Organizations 3 Credits
This course emphasizes finance and quality management in today's complex healthcare system from a historical perspective. Using quality improvement models, students analyze the impact of human factors, processes, and structures on healthcare quality and safety outcomes. Principles of organizational culture, risk management, and economics are considered in planning for translating existing evidence into system-wide improvement initiatives. Effective strategies are evaluated for managing the ethical dilemmas inherent in patient care and healthcare organizations. 42 theory hours.
NURS 7614 Information Technology for Healthcare Improvement 3 Credits
This course focuses on the evaluation and utilization of information systems and technology in order to support and improve patient care and health care systems, provide leadership within health care systems and/or academic settings and impact quality improvement initiatives with emphasis on the macro and meso system levels. Discussion focuses on the design, selection and utilization of information systems as a means to evaluate programs of care, outcomes of care and care systems. In addition, students will evaluate the use of information systems and technology resources to implement quality improvement initiatives, support practice and administrative decision-making, and apply budgetary and productivity tools to support and improve patient outcomes. Discussion of the legal, ethical and cultural issues as they relate to the use of information technology for improvement of health care will be woven throughout the course. 42 theory hours.
NURS 7615 Leadership and Interprofessional Collaboration 3 Credits
The intent of this course is to facilitate the development of collaborative leadership skills for healthcare providers to lead and improve outcomes and facilitate the design of high performing clinical settings in a global society. Theories of leadership, management, and organizational behavior such as vision, motivation, group dynamics, interpersonal relations, negotiation, organizational politics, career development, job design, communication, conflict management, and consultative processes are applied to healthcare settings. Emphasis is on collaboration with interprofessional teams to improve outcomes for patients, families, staff, and healthcare systems. 42 theory hours.
NURS 7620 Advanced Concepts in Pathophysiology 3 Credits
This course focuses on the physiological processes central to biophysical and psycho-pathologic alterations of function across the lifespan. Analysis of physiologic responses and implications of genetics and genomics with illness are included. Interpretation of laboratory data for patient management of acute and chronic disease is discussed. Skills in the analysis of nutritional components of disease prevention and management will be included.
NURS 7640 Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology 4 Credits
The course focuses on the physiological processes central to biophysical and psychopathologic alterations of function across the lifespan. Analysis of physiologic responses and implications of genetics and genomics with illness are included. Interpretation of laboratory data for patient management of acute and chronic disease is discussed. Students analyze case studies of hospitalized and primary care patient scenarios. 56 theory hours.
NURS 7641 Advanced Pharmacology 3 Credits
This course focuses on the pharmacotherapeutic principles of drugs most commonly prescribed by advanced practice nurses and evaluated by advanced education nurses. Emphasis is placed on the process of selecting appropriate agents for the patient's genetic profile, and monitoring adverse drug reactions or interactions with prescription, over-the-counter and alternative therapies. The role of the advanced practice nurse and advanced education nurse in educating and counseling patients across the life span with regard to medication use and the unique affect on individuals is discussed. This course is designed to meet the pharmacology requirement for APRN licensure in Connecticut. 42 theory hours.
NURS 7642 Adult Health I 3 Credits
This course focuses on the primary healthcare of the adolescent, adult, and older adult, particularly regarding the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, management, and evaluation of risk factors and problems commonly encountered by the advanced practice nurse. Management of both the physical and behavioral mental health issues common to adult acute and chronic health problems is included. The identification and clinical management of abnormal findings generated from age-appropriate screenings, genetic history, and cultural assessments are addressed. Case studies depicting problems encountered from adolescence through older adulthood are discussed. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking and clinical judgment as they relate to the development of appropriate differential diagnoses. Additionally students learn pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches to the management of problems in interprofessional teams, participate in shared decision making with patients/families regarding treatment options, as well as manage target goal evaluation. Nationally accepted evidence-based practice guidelines for frequent ICD code diagnoses and review of treatment costs are analyzed. 42 theory hours.
NURS 7643 Adult Health II 4 Credits
Prerequisite(s): NURS 7642.
This course focuses on the primary healthcare of the adolescent, adult, and older adult, particularly regarding the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, management, and evaluation of risk factors and problems commonly encountered by the advanced practice nurse. Management of both the physical and behavioral mental health issues common to adult acute and chronic health problems is included. The identification and clinical management of abnormal findings generated from age-appropriate screenings, genetic history, and cultural assessments are addressed. Case studies depicting problems encountered from adolescence through older adulthood are discussed. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking and clinical judgment as they relate to the development of appropriate differential diagnoses. Additionally, students learn pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches to the management of problems in interprofessional teams, participate in shared decision making with patients/families regarding treatment options as well as managed target goal evaluation. Nationally accepted evidence-based practice guidelines for frequent ICD code diagnoses and review of treatment costs are analyzed. 56 theory hours.
NURS 7645 Care of Children and Families 3 Credits
Corequisite(s): NURS 7952.
Prerequisite(s): NURS 7643.
The assessment, diagnosis, treatment, management, and evaluation of risk factors and health problems of children, adolescents and families across environments of care are addressed. Consideration is given to the unique needs of culturally diverse patients, as well as the management of both physical and behavioral mental health manifestations commonly associated with acute and chronic health problems in primary care. The identification and clinical management of abnormal findings generated from age-appropriate assessments are a focus within this course. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking and clinical judgment as they relate to the development of appropriate differential diagnoses and approaches to the interprofessional health management including participation and shared decision making with children and parents regarding treatment options. Nationally accepted evidence-based practice guidelines are followed. Family theory is studied along with the impact of illness and violence on the family. 42 theory hours.
NURS 7647 Care of At-Risk Populations 3 Credits
Corequisite(s): NURS 7953.
Prerequisite(s): NURS 7645.
This course focuses on the complex management of primary care problems experienced by individuals across the lifespan. Risk factors including infectious disease, inflammatory state, immunological deficiency, obesity, age, genetic predisposition, psychosocial status, and behavioral health problems and how they influence the management of an individual's health status are studied. The impact of issues such as mistreatment, abuse, homelessness, incarceration, and end-of-life concerns on healthcare needs are also examined. Students will explore issues of healthcare delivery across environments of care as they integrate all aspects of the advanced practice nurse role including shared decision making and interprofessional collaboration. Additional pharmacology is discussed for each system for a minimum of five hours. Reflective practice techniques are used to document selective patient encounters. A culminating project, selected by faculty and student, involving synthesis and use of knowledge from previous coursework and practica experiences is required. 42 theory hours.
NURS 7650 Psychopathology 3 Credits
This course examines theories of personality and development with an aim to understand what motivates human behavior. The neurophysiology of psychopathology is examined within a trauma-informed explanatory model. Approaches examined include attachment, relational, psychodynamic, and social psychology theories. These models are discussed as they pertain to various diagnostic categories and cultural groups with an emphasis on reflective analysis and application to practice. Case studies and reflective application papers are used to illustrate integration and synthesis of knowledge. 42 theory hours.
NURS 7651 Mental Health Nursing of Children and Adolescents 2 Credits
Prerequisite(s): NURS 7650 (concurrency allowed).
This course focuses on the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, management and evaluation of risk factors and mental health problems of infants, children and adolescents across systems of care. Building on knowledge from preceding coursework, students apply developmental, family, interpersonal, attachment, and neurobiological theories and research, multifaceted treatment modalities, cultural and spiritual considerations in the management of behavioral health problems of infants, children and adolescents. 28 theory hours.
NURS 7652 Mental Health Nursing of Individuals Across the Lifespan 3 Credits
Corequisite(s): NURS 7659.
This course provides an overview of individual psychotherapeutic treatment across the lifespan using a neuroscience relationship-based framework for practice. Emphasis is on the development of empathy and therapeutic relationship through partnership, shared decision making, recovery oriented principles, and integration of reflective practice. Evidence-based techniques are discussed, which include short-term psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, EMDR, and motivational interviewing. Ethical, legal, age and ethno-cultural considerations are discussed as they relate to the treatment of individuals with psychiatric disorders and mental health problems. 42 theory hours.
NURS 7659 Foundational Clinical Skills for Advanced Psychiatric Nursing Practice 3 Credits
Corequisite(s): NURS 7652.
Prerequisite(s): NURS 7650.
This course focuses on simulated activities in individual and group settings to develop (1) an understanding of group dynamics, group process components, and group members' roles and behaviors, and (2) skills in comprehensive psychiatric assessment and diagnosis with individuals experiencing acute mental health problems. Therapeutic communication techniques and specific interviewing strategies for working with individuals and families across the lifespan who are in crisis and/or seeking mental health care. Those strategies are examined within the context of a reflective practice model. Ethical, legal, and ethno-cultural considerations as they relate to group dynamics and assessment and diagnosis of psychiatric disorders will be discussed.
NURS 7661 Mental Health Nursing of Groups and Families Across the Lifespan 2 Credits
Corequisite(s): NURS 7955.
Prerequisite(s): NURS 7652.
This course addresses the basic tenets of group and family therapy across the lifespan for the psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner. Students examine major concepts of group development, dynamics, and leadership techniques, as well as approaches to family (including the works of Bowen, Haley and Minuchin), with opportunities to incorporate shared decision making and reflect upon choice of techniques appropriate for different age groups and the role of the therapist. Videotape and experiential exercises are used to enhance learning, and ethical, spiritual, and ethno-cultural considerations are addressed. 28 theory hours.
NURS 7663 Primary Mental Health Nursing of At-Risk Populations Across the Lifespan 2 Credits
Corequisite(s): NURS 7956.
Prerequisite(s): NURS 7661.
This course is designed to develop increasing independence and clinical judgment in primary mental health nursing with an emphasis on interprofessional collaboration and shared decision making with patients/families regarding treatment options. Building on knowledge from preceding coursework, students apply theories, multifaceted treatment modalities, cultural and spiritual considerations in the management of complex and/or chronically ill vulnerable populations across the lifespan. Evidence-based research and practice guidelines are incorporated into comprehensive plans of care for complex diverse populations with psychiatric diagnoses and mental health problems. 42 theory hours.
NURS 7667 Psychopharmacology 3 Credits
This course prepares the advanced practice psychiatric nurse to prescribe psychotropic medication for patients across the lifespan. Assessing for the need for medication, selection of appropriate medication, genetic and genomic assay testing, medication rule-outs, baseline tests for screening, safe and proper monitoring, and beginning/advanced pharmacotherapy options are discussed for a variety of psychiatric diagnoses. Shared decision making with patients/families regarding treatment options to obtain optimum treatment outcomes is emphasized with respect to issues of adherence and recovery-focused practice. 14 theory hours. Open to nursing students only.
NURS 7668 Palliative Care Across the Lifespan 3 Credits
This course will cover the ELNEC Core Curriculum, which contains eight modules addressing critical aspects of end-of-life care. These modules include: Palliative Nursing Care, Pain Management, Symptom Management, Ethical Issues in Palliative Care Nursing, Cultural Considerations in Palliative Care, Communication, Loss, Grief and Bereavement, Final Hours and Leadership. Upon completion of the course, student will be a "train-the-train" for the ELNEC Core curriculum. Teaching resources will be provided to allow the student to educate other nurses about palliative and end-of-life care. 42 theory hours.
NURS 7670 Human Anatomy and Physiology for Nurse Anesthetists 3 Credits
This course presents an in-depth study of human anatomy and advanced physiologic principles as they relate to nurse anesthesia practice. An overview of cellular physiology and function is presented. Special attention is placed on the cardiovascular, respiratory and renal systems, as well as the normal neuro-endocrine response to stress. Tests of respiratory and cardiovascular function are reviewed and their analysis discussed. 42 theory hours.
NURS 7687 DNP Immersion 1-6 Credits
DNP graduates are healthcare leaders who will care for a cohort of patients within their specialty, while using a cross-population perspective to assess, manage and evaluate common problems. The immersion experience prepares the graduate in the design, delivery, and evaluation of evidenced-based care incorporating advanced practice nursing competencies. In addition, students will provide leadership in promoting evidenced-based practice in the advanced practice specialty while functioning as a practice specialist/consultant in the resolution of clinical problems. The DNP immersion experience culminates in the completion of a scholarly DNP Project, disseminated in both the form of a conference-style poster and a publication-ready manuscript.
NURS 7687F DNP Immersion 1 Credit
See NURS 7687.
NURS 7697 DNP Seminar I 1 Credit
This seminar provides the foundation for development of the scholarly DNP Project. In conjunction with the first two research courses in the DNP curriculum, this seminar gives students the opportunity to further refine their proposed DNP project aimed at improving the healthcare delivery system or patient outcomes. This project could be a quality improvement project, a practice change project, a program evaluation, a policy development/improvement project, or another project with a focus on patient outcomes and practice improvement. Project plans are developed to include the identification of an appropriate clinical practice problem, the patient/system/population outcomes that the project is intended to affect, the proposed project site, and the proposed steps for implementation and outcome assessment. Students will continue to work with their DNP Advisor in developing the project. In addition, students will identify potential Immersion experiences that focus on achieving program outcomes.
NURS 7699 DNP Seminar II 1 Credit
Prerequisite(s): NURS 7697.
This seminar is designed to provide students with the opportunity to synthesize knowledge as they transition to advanced practice nursing at the doctoral level. The seminar reflects integration of all course work and experiential learning in order to demonstrate the students' integration and utilization of evidence based-practice, finance, management, quality improvement, informatics, leadership, ethics, and reflective practice in the management of individual patients, populations, and healthcare systems. Students will be given an opportunity to develop a poster for professional presentation, give case presentations developed during immersion experiences, present drafts of manuscripts and/or practice guidelines, and participate in the peer review process to demonstrate expertise and decision making skills in their individual area of specialization.
NURS 7950 CYCLE (Community Youth Collaborative Education) Clinical Hours 0 Credits
Fee: $250 PMHNP Cycle Clinical Fee
Prerequisite(s): NURS 7604.
This programming will begin in NP students’ second year in the program and consist of various activities working with children, adolescents and young adults in the community including at Fairfield University. Activities will be focused on mental health screening and wellness promotion including resiliency skills.
NURS 7951 Practicum in Adult Health I 5 Credits
Fee: $1000 FNP Practicum Fee
Prerequisite(s): NURS 7643.
Students apply theoretical learning about genetic implications, exacerbations, complications, and remissions of acute and chronic illnesses in the primary care of adults from adolescence through older adulthood in various care environments. Under the supervision of a nurse practitioner, physician assistant or physician, students provide primary care to adult patients from diverse populations. Clinical conferences provide an opportunity for discussion and sharing of patient issues encountered in the practicum as they relate to the diagnosis, treatment, management, shared decision making, evaluation and prevention of illness, ethical and cost implications, risk assessment, and health promotion. Reflective practice techniques are used to document selective patient encounters. The advanced practice role components of clinical practice, consultation, collaboration, and education are discussed and analyzed in the clinical conference. 200 clinical hours.
NURS 7952 Clinical Conference Across the Lifespan: FNP Practicum I 5 Credits
Fee: $1000 FNP Practicum Fee
Corequisite(s): NURS 7645.
Prerequisite(s): NURS 7951.
Students synthesize theoretical learning about prevention, exacerbation, complications, and remission of acute and chronic illnesses in caring for patients across the lifespan from diverse backgrounds under the supervision of a nurse practitioner, physician assistant, nurse midwife, or physician. Students gain knowledge in caring for patients experiencing or anticipating potential health crises collaboratively with the interprofessional health care team. Clinical conferences provide an opportunity for discussion and sharing of issues encountered in the practicum as they relate to the diagnosis, treatment, shared decision making, management, evaluation, and prevention of illness within the interprofessional team. Strategies for using ethical guidelines, risk management, shared decision making, and health promotion in a cost effective fashion with these individuals is stressed. Students maximize their leadership ability by delivering primary care creatively to patients in clinics, private practices, urgent care centers, emergency departments, long term care facilities, prisons, college and school based clinics. The advanced practice role components of clinical practice, consultation, collaboration, and education are discussed and integrated in the clinical practicum and conference.
NURS 7953 Clinical Conference Across the Lifespan: FNP Practicum II 5 Credits
Fee: $1000 FNP Practicum Fee
Corequisite(s): NURS 7647.
Prerequisite(s): NURS 7952.
Students synthesize theoretical learning about prevention, exacerbation, complications, and remission of acute and chronic illnesses in caring for patients across the lifespan from diverse backgrounds under the supervision of a nurse practitioner, physician assistant, nurse midwife, or physician. Students gain knowledge in caring for patients experiencing or anticipating potential health crises collaboratively with the interprofessional health care team. Clinical conferences provide an opportunity for discussion and sharing of issues encountered in the practicum as they relate to the diagnosis, treatment, shared decision making, management, evaluation, and prevention of illness within the interprofessional team. Strategies for using ethical guidelines, risk management, shared decision making, and health promotion in a cost effective fashion with these individuals is stressed. Students maximize their leadership ability by delivering primary care creatively to patients in clinics, private practices, urgent care centers, emergency departments, long term care facilities, prisons, college and school based clinics. The advanced practice role components of clinical practice, consultation, collaboration, and education are discussed and integrated in the clinical practicum and conference.
NURS 7954 Practicum I: PMHNP 4 Credits
Fee: $1000 PMHNP Practicum Fee
Prerequisite(s): NURS 7652 (concurrency allowed).
Practica experiences give students the opportunity to integrate primary mental health skills and meet the competencies required by the PMHNP Program. Focus is on the continuous and comprehensive care necessary for the promotion of optimal mental health, prevention, and treatment of mental health problems and psychiatric disorders. Practica experiences are designed to synthesize reflective practice skills as an advanced practice psychiatric nurse. Clinical sites may include a wide range of settings, such as outpatient clinics, shelters, prisons, inpatient settings, long-term care, and home health care. Supervision is provided by the preceptors in the clinical agency. Group supervision on campus facilitates the consolidation of critical reflection and clinical judgment. All objectives must be met in order to graduate and many will be met many times throughout the practica. A minimum of 16-17 different objectives are documented as met in each practicum depending on the clinical site and illustrated through the Clinical Case Narrative Assignment. More than one Clinical Case Narrative may be needed in order to demonstrate that a minimum of 16 objectives are met for that practicum. 200 clinical hours.
NURS 7955 Practicum II: PMHNP 5 Credits
Fee: $1000 PMHNP Practicum Fee
Corequisite(s): NURS 7661.
Practica experiences give students the opportunity to integrate primary mental health skills and meet the competencies required by the PMHNP Program. Focus is on the continuous and comprehensive care necessary for the promotion of optimal mental health, prevention, and treatment of mental health problems and psychiatric disorders. Practica experiences are designed to synthesize reflective practice skills as an advanced practice psychiatric nurse. Clinical sites may include a wide range of settings, such as outpatient clinics, shelters, prisons, inpatient settings, long-term care, and home health care. Supervision is provided by the preceptors in the clinical agency. Group supervision on campus facilitates the consolidation of critical reflection and clinical judgment. All objectives must be met in order to graduate and many will be met many times throughout the practica. A minimum of 16-17 different objectives are documented as met in each practicum depending on the clinical site and illustrated through the Clinical Case Narrative Assignment. More than one Clinical Case Narrative may be needed in order to demonstrate that a minimum of 16 objectives are met for that practicum. 200 clinical hours.
NURS 7956 Practicum III: PMHNP 4-6 Credits
Fee: $1000 PMHNP Practicum Fee
Corequisite(s): NURS 7663.
Practica experiences give students the opportunity to integrate primary mental health skills and meet the competencies required by the PMHNP Program. Focus is on the continuous and comprehensive care necessary for the promotion of optimal mental health, prevention, and treatment of mental health problems and psychiatric disorders. Practica experiences are designed to synthesize reflective practice skills as an advanced practice psychiatric nurse. Clinical sites may include a wide range of settings, such as outpatient clinics, shelters, prisons, inpatient settings, long-term care, and home health care. Supervision is provided by the preceptors in the clinical agency. Group supervision on campus facilitates the consolidation of critical reflection and clinical judgment. All objectives must be met in order to graduate and many will be met many times throughout the practica. A minimum of 16-17 different objectives are documented as met in each practicum depending on the clinical site and illustrated through the Clinical Case Narrative Assignment. More than one Clinical Case Narrative may be needed in order to demonstrate that a minimum of 16 objectives are met for that practicum. 200 clinical hours.
NURS 7990 Independent Study 1-4 Credits
Through individually designed projects or activities, students work with a faculty member to study a specific area in depth. Enrollment by permission only.
NSAN 7640 Professional Aspects of Nurse Anesthesia Practice I 1 Credit
Prerequisite(s): NSAN 7674.
This course provides a basic introduction for the nurse anesthesia resident on a variety of topics important for professional nurse anesthesia practice. During NSAN 7640, nurse anesthesia residents will learn vital clinical and non-clinical subject matter, including the history of anesthesia, professional organizations dedicated to anesthesiology, and review of the Professional Practice Manual for nurse anesthetists. Additionally, an emphasis on health and wellness for the anesthesia provider will be discussed, along with essential tools and information for the nurse anesthesia resident.
NSAN 7641 Professional Aspects of Nurse Anesthesia Practice II 2 Credits
Prerequisite(s): NSAN 7640.
This course provides advanced instruction for the nurse anesthesia resident on a variety of topics important for professional nurse anesthesia practice. Building upon knowledge gained in NSAN 7640 and ongoing clinical experiences, nurse anesthesia residents will learn legal considerations for the nurse anesthetist, current political trends in anesthesia practice, and the variety of business models used by anesthesiology providers. Reflective practice techniques will be utilized, with a continued emphasis on health and wellness for the anesthesia provider.
NSAN 7650 Clinical Integration for Nurse Anesthesia Practice I 2 Credits
Corequisite(s): NSAN 7677.
Prerequisite(s): NSAN 7674.
Clinical Integration I is designed to introduce nurse anesthesia residents to the hands-on basics of nurse anesthesiology practice and develop a foundation for clinical experiences in Clinical Integration II. Nurse anesthesia residents will participate in static and high-fidelity simulations as they begin to apply theoretical and didactic knowledge to prepare for clinical experiences.
NSAN 7651 Ultrasound Guided Concepts and Techniques I 2 Credits
Corequisite(s): NSAN 7651L, NSAN 7677.
Prerequisite(s): NSAN 7674.
This course introduces the nurse anesthesia resident to ultrasound technology, concepts, and techniques. It teaches students to apply knowledge of anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, basic ultrasound technology, and other related procedures under ultrasound guidance.
NSAN 7651L Ultrasound Guided Concepts and Techniques I Lab 0 Credits
Corequisite(s): NSAN 7651.
Prerequisite(s): NSAN 7674.
This lab introduces nurse anesthesia residents to the hands-on, kinesthetic basics of ultrasound- guided techniques. Students will develop technical skills for performing a variety of ultrasound-guided procedures and anesthesia techniques. Teaching methods will include demonstration, equipment workshops, reflection/debriefing, and simulation.
NSAN 7652 Ultrasound Guided Concepts and Techniques II 2 Credits
Corequisite(s): NSAN 7652L.
Prerequisite(s): NSAN 7651.
This course builds upon the knowledge and skills gained in Ultrasound-Guided Concepts and Techniques I. Nurse anesthesia residents will continue to apply their developing knowledge of anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and advanced ultrasound technology to the administration and maintenance of regional anesthesia, patient assessment and management, and other advanced procedures under ultrasound guidance.
NSAN 7652L Ultrasound Guided Concepts and Techniques II Lab 0 Credits
Corequisite(s): NSAN 7652.
Prerequisite(s): NSAN 7651.
This course will facilitate continued hands-on training for nurse anesthesia residents and build upon the previous knowledge and skills obtained. Students will continue developing technical skills for performing a variety of ultrasound-guided procedures and anesthesia techniques. Teaching methods will include demonstration, equipment workshops, reflection/debriefing, and simulation.
NSAN 7655 Clinical Integration for Nurse Anesthesia Practice II 2 Credits
Clinical Integration II is designed to build upon the skills acquired in Clinical Integration I and develop a strong foundation for concurrent and future clinical courses. Nurse anesthesia residents will participate in simulation scenarios across the lifespan and will develop the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively integrate clinical practices, evidence-based research, and critical thinking into their role.
NSAN 7669 Advanced Pathophysiology 4 Credits
The course focuses on the pathophysiological processes central to alterations in physiologic function across the lifespan. Analysis of pathophysiologic responses, implications of genetics and genomics, and laboratory data pertinent to acute and chronic disease across the lifespan using a multi-systems approach addressing the characteristics, impairments, and functions of all organ systems is discussed. Previously NURS 7669.
NSAN 7671 Chemistry and Physics for Nurse Anesthetists 3 Credits
This course provides a detailed discussion of basic organic, inorganic, and biochemical principles, and basic physical principles as they related to nurse anesthesia practice. Emphasis is placed upon the behavior of gases and the gas laws, principles of diffusion, gas flow and resistance, acid-base balance, and the biochemical processes necessary for basic cellular function. In addition, the basic physical principles of work, energy, light, electricity, and radiation are discussed with a focus on operating room safety and the use of biomedical equipment. Group discussion is utilized to facilitate the application of these principles to the clinical setting.
NSAN 7672 Pharmacologic Strategies in Anesthesia Practice 3 Credits
This course presents a comprehensive study of the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and pharmacogenetics of drugs utilized in anesthesia practice. Students will focus upon the mechanisms of action of inhalational anesthetics, intravenous anesthetics, and neuromuscular blocking agents. Special attention will be placed upon the comparative pharmacology of all anesthetic agents as well as their effects on all organ systems. Emphasis will be placed on the practical applications of the anesthetic agents through case presentations and group discussion.
NSAN 7673 Principles of Nurse Anesthesia Practice I 4 Credits
Corequisite(s): NSAN 7673L.
This course provides an introduction to the basic principles of anesthesia practice and perioperative management of patients across the lifespan. Emphasis is placed on the anesthesia workstation, patient monitoring modalities, procedural positioning, fluid homeostasis, and principles of airway management. Additionally, nurse anesthesia residents will learn necessary preoperative processes including patient evaluation, interpretation of physiologic studies, and informed consent by analyzing current best practices and learning to develop an anesthesia plan of care.
NSAN 7673L Principles of Nurse Anesthesia Practice I Lab 0 Credits
Corequisite(s): NSAN 7673.
This laboratory-based course accompanies NSAN 7673 and is designed to introduce the nurse anesthesia resident to the technical skills and critical thinking necessary for professional anesthesia practice. Hands-on experience with anesthesia workstations, airway apparatus, and patient positioning is provided. In addition, nurse anesthesia residents will learn how to perform comprehensive anesthetic assessments on patients during simulated preoperative evaluations and will interpret findings as it relates to the anesthetic plan of care. Teaching methods include demonstration, equipment workshops, and simulation.
NSAN 7674 Principles of Nurse Anesthesia Practice II 4 Credits
Corequisite(s): NSAN 7674L.
Prerequisite(s): NSAN 7673.
This course provides an in-depth discussion of the anesthetic management of patients undergoing an array of surgical procedures across the perianesthesia continuum. Emphasis is placed on the preoperative assessment, patient preparation, perioperative management and postoperative care of patients undergoing intraabdominal, orthopedic, and thoracic procedures. Students analyze current best practices in the development of the anesthesia plan of care.
NSAN 7674L Principles of Nurse Anesthesia Practice II Lab 0 Credits
Corequisite(s): NSAN 7674.
Prerequisite(s): NSAN 7673L.
This laboratory-based course accompanies NSAN 7674 and is designed to enhance the students’ technical skill and critical thinking as it relates to anesthesia practice. Emphasis will be placed on application of didactic knowledge and decision making in simulated scenarios involving anesthetic management of patients during laparoscopic, robotic, bariatric, and gynecological surgeries. In addition, nurse anesthesia residents will practice the skills necessary for management of thoracic procedures in hands-on laboratory sessions. Teaching methods will include demonstration, equipment workshops, reflection/debriefing, and simulation.
NSAN 7677 Principles of Nurse Anesthesia Practice III 4 Credits
Prerequisite(s): NSAN 7674.
This course provides an advanced discussion of anesthetic management for specific patient populations, coexisting disease states, and surgical procedures. Specialty anesthesia practice is emphasized through review of cardiac, vascular, neurological, obstetric, and pediatric procedures and associated comorbidities. Additional focus will be placed on the unique considerations for the anesthetic management of trauma surgeries, non-operating room procedures, and organ transplantation by analyzing current best practices in the development of the specialty anesthesia plan of care.
NSAN 7678 Clinical Correlation Conference 2 Credits
Prerequisite(s): NSAN 7954.
This course provides students with the opportunity to integrate knowledge necessary for professional nurse anesthesia practice utilizing comprehensive case presentations, which integrate and discuss current anesthesia topics, equipment, techniques and practices involved in current anesthesia case management. Ethical considerations as they apply to specific case management will be discussed. This review will utilize a combination of didactic lectures, exams, case presentations and seminar discussions. An emphasis will be placed on neuroanesthesia and the anesthetic management for major coexisting disease in preparation for the national certification exam.
NSAN 7679 Principles of Nurse Anesthesia Practice IV 2 Credits
Prerequisite(s): NSAN 7677.
This course provides an in-depth discussion of the anesthetic management for specific patient populations, coexisting disease states, and surgical procedures. Emphasis will be placed on the administration of anesthesia in non-operating room locations including endoscopy, interventional cardiology, and interventional radiology. Anesthetic management of anesthesia for plastics, trauma, burns, and organ transplantation will also be presented. Students will analyze current best practices in the development of the anesthetic plan of care.
NSAN 7941 Nurse Anesthesia Residency Correlation I 1 Credit
Corequisite(s): NSAN 7956.
Prerequisite(s): NSAN 7950.
Nurse Anesthesia Residency Correlation I is designed for the novice nurse anesthesia resident to integrate their academic knowledge with the practical application of Nurse Anesthesia Residency I. Through this course, nurse anesthesia residents will prepare for their first Self-Examination Exam provided by the NBCRNA. An introduction to asynchronous board review modules alongside module exams will be completed, as well as a clinical case study (Adult, Geriatric, Regional, Pediatric) to dive deeper into evidence-based knowledge and critical thinking. Activities, such as care plans, notecards, and simulation will be assigned to organize, administer, and manage anesthesia in the general or specialty setting.
NSAN 7942 Nurse Anesthesia Residency Correlation II 1 Credit
Corequisite(s): NSAN 7957.
Prerequisite(s): NSAN 7941.
Nurse Anesthesia Residency Correlation II is designed for the beginning, intermediate nurse anesthesia resident to integrate their academic knowledge with the practical application of Nurse Anesthesia Residency II. Through this course, residents will continue asynchronous board review modules with complementary exams, as well as a clinical case study (Adult, Geriatric, Regional, Pediatric) to dive deeper into evidence-based knowledge and critical thinking. Activities, such as care plans, notecards, and simulation will be assigned to organize, administer, and manage anesthesia in the general or specialty setting.
NSAN 7943 Nurse Anesthesia Residency Correlation III 1 Credit
Corequisite(s): NSAN 7958.
Prerequisite(s): NSAN 7942.
Nurse Anesthesia Residency Correlation III is designed for the intermediate nurse anesthesia resident to integrate their academic knowledge with the practical application of Nurse Anesthesia Residency III. Through this course, residents will continue asynchronous board review modules with complementary exams, as well as a clinical case study (Adult, Geriatric, Regional, Pediatric) to dive deeper into evidence-based knowledge and critical thinking. Activities, such as care plans, notecards, and simulation will be assigned to organize, administer, and manage anesthesia in the general or specialty setting.
NSAN 7944 Nurse Anesthesia Residency Correlation IV 1 Credit
Corequisite(s): NSAN 7959.
Prerequisite(s): NSAN 7943.
Nurse Anesthesia Residency Correlation IV is designed for the advanced nurse anesthesia resident to integrate their academic knowledge with the practical application of Nurse Anesthesia Residency III. Through this course, residents will continue asynchronous board review modules with complementary exams, as well as the final clinical case study (Adult, Geriatric, Regional, Pediatric) for deeper understanding of evidence-based knowledge and critical thinking. Activities, such as care plans, notecards, and simulation will be assigned to organize, administer, and manage anesthesia in the general or specialty setting.
NSAN 7945 Nurse Anesthesia Residency Correlation V 1 Credit
Corequisite(s): NSAN 7960.
Prerequisite(s): NSAN 7944.
Nurse Anesthesia Residency Correlation V is designed for the complex nurse anesthesia resident to integrate their academic knowledge with their independent, practical application of Nurse Anesthesia Residency V. Nurse anesthesia residents must achieve the benchmark score as set by the program on the Self-Examination Exam provided by the NBCRNA prior to successful completion of the course. Board review will culminate in this course with the completion of multiple comprehensive exams. Activities, such as care plans, notecards, and simulation will be assigned to organize, administer, and manage anesthesia in the general or specialty setting.
NSAN 7950 Transition to Nurse Anesthesia Residency 1 Credit
Corequisite(s): NURS 7641.
Prerequisite(s): NSAN 7650.
Transition to Nurse Anesthesia Residency is designed to complement Clinical Integration for Nurse Anesthesia Practice II. This course will provide the hands-on, kinesthetic learning experiences to develop a foundation for all Nurse Anesthesia Residency Courses. Nurse anesthesia residents will begin with some basic shadowing experiences and progress to align with Gray Badge Privileges. Clinical expectations will be provided specific to the program, and residents will be provided information from assigned clinical sites. These clinical experiences will introduce the resident to clinical training in the nurse anesthesia specialty.
NSAN 7956 Nurse Anesthesia Residency I 3 Credits
Prerequisite(s): NSAN 7950.
Nurse Anesthesia Residency I is designed for the novice practitioner to integrate academic knowledge with basic practical application. Emphasis will be placed on basic airway management, function and usage of anesthesia equipment; pre-operative assessment and evaluation, intra-operative management and post-anesthesia management for healthy ASA Class I and Class II patients. The student works side by side with a certified anesthesia provider at all times.
NSAN 7957 Nurse Anesthesia Residency II 3 Credits
Prerequisite(s): NSAN 7956.
This clinical practicum provides experience for the beginning intermediate student practitioner who has demonstrated successful completion of Nurse Anesthesia Residency I. Nurse Anesthesia Residency II deals with the incorporation and integration of knowledge, skills and objectives for a more comprehensive and complex range of patients and surgeries. Emphasis is placed on the development of independent critical decision making skills as the students begins to gain independence in practice.
NSAN 7958 Nurse Anesthesia Residency III 4 Credits
Prerequisite(s): NSAN 7957.
This course provides experience for the intermediate student practitioner in order to incorporate and integrate advanced academic knowledge, clinical skills, and critical decision making for a more comprehensive range of patients. At the completion of Nurse Anesthesia Residency III the student will demonstrate the ability to manage the anesthesia care of the ASA Class I-V and IE-VE with supervision. Student independence is encouraged as the intermediate anesthesia provider works alone with attending physicians for healthy uncomplicated procedures and supervised for more complex cases.
NSAN 7959 Nurse Anesthesia Residency IV 4 Credits
Prerequisite(s): NSAN 7958.
This clinical practicum is designed to allow the advanced student practitioner to integrate all previously attained knowledge and clinical skills into anesthesia practice for all elective and emergency ASA Class I-V patients. At the completion of Nurse Anesthesia Residency IV the Advanced Student Practitioner will be able to formulate, implement and evaluate a plan for perioperative anesthesia care for adult and pediatric ASA I-V patients and ASA IE-VE patients with supervision, demonstrate critical thinking skills in a diverse range of clinical situations, including off-site anesthesia locations and as a member of the "code team," work in a collaborative effort with other members of the anesthesia and surgical care teams, exhibit ethical and professional behavior in anesthesia practice and function as a patient advocate.
NSAN 7960 Nurse Anesthesia Residency V 4 Credits
Prerequisite(s): NSAN 7959.
This final clinical practicum is designed to allow the Complex Practitioner to demonstrate the integration of all previous knowledge, skills and objectives, for the anesthetic management of all ASA I-V and ASA IE-VE patients. At the completion of Nurse Anesthesia Residency V the student will be able to function as an independent practitioner and will have met all of the requirements in order to sit for the national certification examination. The complex practitioner will be able to formulate, implement and evaluate a plan for perioperative anesthesia care for adult and pediatric ASA I-V and ASA IE-VE patients, demonstrate critical thinking skills in all clinical situations and patient care venues, work in a collaborative effort with other members of the anesthesia and surgical care team, function as a team leader and collaborative member in cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and exhibit ethical and professional behavior in anesthesia practice.
NSAN 7965 Nurse Anesthesia Certification Board Review 2 Credits
Corequisite(s): NSAN 7960.
Prerequisite(s): NSAN 7959.
This course provides nurse anesthesia residents with a comprehensive review of the knowledge necessary for the national certification exam and subsequent professional nurse anesthesia practice. This review will utilize a combination of self-paced learning modules, completion of board-style practice questions, didactic lectures, and exams. Additionally, nurse anesthesia residents will demonstrate comprehension through case presentations discussing relevant physiology, anesthetic management of patient comorbidities and specialty populations, and current techniques in anesthesia practice. Seminar discussions will provide the opportunity to exchange dialogue on unique clinical experiences and ethical considerations as they apply to specific case management.
NSMW 7620 Antepartum Care 3 Credits
This course introduces students to the theory and practice of nurse-midwifery, with an emphasis on antepartum care. Care of the pregnant person, fetus, and childbearing family during the prenatal period are explored holistically from each of the following perspectives: biological, physiological, developmental, and cultural. The educational and nutritional needs of the pregnant person are examined. Students learn how to perform comprehensive assessments on a pregnant person at all gestational ages, as well as the timing and indication of screening tests during pregnancy. An emphasis is placed on prevention and screening based on evidence-based research. Normal fetal growth and fetal testing options are covered. Research-based advanced nursing interventions, including physiological, psychosocial and pharmacological interventions to promote, to maintain, and to restore the optimal health of pregnant persons are explored. Clinical practice guidelines are highlighted and attention given to cultural, socioeconomic and family variations in the provision of care in the antepartum setting.
NSMW 7622 Primary Care and Gynecologic, Reproductive, and Sexual Health for Nurse Midwifery I 3 Credits
This course focuses on the provision of reproductive-based health care to non-pregnant people across the lifespan and on the provision of primary care to both non-pregnant and pregnant people. This course examines current primary care and gynecological health care practices and theories from the following disciplines: biological, genetic, psychological, developmental, sociocultural and cultural. Students will develop critical thinking, clinical care skills, and management strategies for a holistic approach to primary care and gynecologic care. Family planning and contraceptive options will be reviewed. Emphasis is on comprehensive assessments and prevention and screening recommendations from evidence-based research. Concepts related to health promotion are provided. In addition to primary care and gynecologic assessments, preconception and postpartum assessments (including breastfeeding) will be explored. The primary care management of selected common health conditions affecting people will be covered. Developmental considerations, vulnerable populations, and cultural needs as they relate to health promotion will be discussed. Additionally, pharmacology specific to gynecologic and primary care issues will be included.
NSMW 7623 Primary Care and Gynecologic, Reproductive, and Sexual Health for Nurse Midwifery II 3 Credits
This course is a continuation of NSMW 7622 and focuses on the provision of reproductive-based health care to non-pregnant people across the lifespan and on the provision of primary care to both the non-pregnant and pregnant person. This course further examines current primary care and gynecological person’s health care practices and theories from the following disciplines: biological, genetic, psychological, developmental, sociocultural and cultural. Students in this course will develop critical thinking, clinical care skills, and management strategies for a holistic approach to primary care and gynecologic care. Emphasis is on comprehensive assessments and prevention and screening recommendations from evidence-based research. Having been introduced to the primary care and gynecologic health promotion and maintenance of people in NSMW 7622, this course will explore beyond these concepts, and further examine the abnormal conditions in the primary care and gynecologic setting. Pharmacology specific to primary care, gynecologic, reproductive, and sexual health and abnormal conditions will be covered in depth. Attention will be given to the evaluation and management of common episodic and chronic primary care and gynecologic conditions of people in the healthcare settings. Developmental considerations, vulnerable populations, and cultural needs, as they relate to health promotion will be discussed in depth.
NSMW 7625 Intrapartum Care 3 Credits
This course focuses on normal labor and birth and introduces students to intrapartum theory, skills, and management. Synthesis and application of theory and research to effectively implement midwifery care in the intrapartum setting. Focus is on comprehensive team participation and management of intrapartum and immediate postpartum persons with normal deliveries. Evaluation and immediate care of the newborn is included. Development and evaluation of evidence-based care approaches is incorporated throughout the course. An emphasis is placed on vulnerable populations to critically evaluate the impact of contextual factors on healthcare services in the intrapartum setting. The course highlights the normalcy of birth for the low risk pregnant persons.
NSMW 7627 Advanced Midwifery Management: At-Risk Childbirth 3 Credits
Building on NSMW 7625 this course will provide synthesis and application of theory and research to effectively implement advanced midwifery care in the intrapartum setting. In this course, potential complications arising during normal birth are explored. Further, common medical, surgical, and obstetric complications are explored in depth. Case studies, case presentations, and simulations are utilized as the primary course format for the students to evaluate patients and manage common obstetric complications. Skills to prevent and manage common obstetric complications and life-threatening problems of pregnant persons will be emphasized. Skills for immediate assessment, supportive management of the newborn, including physiological, psychosocial and pharmacologic interventions will be incorporated. Students will have the opportunity to become certified in neonatal resuscitation. Interprofessional simulations will be coordinated throughout the course to simulate actual patient scenarios with a focus on teamwork and communication.
NSMW 7951 Antepartum Clinical 2 Credits
Fee: $400 Midwifery Antepartum Clinical Fee
As the first practicum in the nurse-midwifery specialty, this clinical focuses on providing evidence-based care and utilizing health promotion when caring for the pregnant persons. Emphasis is placed on the physical exam of a pregnant person, assessment of fetal well-being, and providing prenatal education. Students use critical thinking and clinical judgment as they relate the provision of care to pregnant persons. Evidence-based practice guidelines are followed to provide routine prenatal care as well as to recognize abnormal findings. The assessment, diagnosis, treatment, management and evaluation of risk factors and health problems will be addressed. Attention is given to cultural, socioeconomic and family variations in the provision of care in the antepartum setting.
NSMW 7952 Primary Care and Gynecologic, Reproductive, and Sexual Health for Nurse Midwifery Clinical 3 Credits
Fee: $750 Midwifery Primary Care & Gynecologic, Reproductive, and Sexual Health for Nurse Midwifery Clinical Fee
Focus on evidence-based practice approaches to primary care and gynecologic care, specifically, ambulatory management of common, acute, and chronic health conditions of persons throughout the lifespan, including preconceptual, interconceptual and postpartum care. Prevention and screening using patient databases and evidence-based research will be emphasized. Further emphasis will be on physiological, psychosocial, and pharmacological interventions. Age related, cultural, family, and individual patient variations and vulnerabilities will be incorporated into the review of clinical practice guidelines.
NSMW 7953 Intrapartum Clinical 2 Credits
Fee: $750 Midwifery Intrapartum Clinical Fee
Intrapartum clinical serves as the student midwife’s first experience managing intrapartum clients in the hospital or birth center setting and as the foundational course for intrapartum management of the low risk pregnant person. Skills are first taught in didactic and simulation settings, ensuring each student midwife is checked off on these skills prior to beginning clinical. This clinical focuses on normal labor and birth and introduces students to intrapartum skills and management. Application of theory and research from NSMW 7625 will be used to effectively implement midwifery care in the intrapartum setting. Focus is on comprehensive team participation and management of intrapartum and immediate postpartum persons with normal deliveries. Evaluation and immediate care of the newborn is included. An emphasis is placed on vulnerable populations to critically evaluate the impact of contextual factors on healthcare services in the intrapartum setting. This clinical highlights the normalcy of birth for low risk pregnant persons.
NSMW 7954 Advanced Midwifery Clinical 2 Credits
Fee: $750 Advanced Midwifery Clinical Fee
Building on the prior clinical course NSMW 7953, this course will provide application of theory and research to effectively implement advanced midwifery care in the intrapartum setting. In this course, potential complications arising during normal birth are explored and care will be provided to pregnant persons with these conditions. Further, common medical, surgical, and obstetric complications are explored in depth. Students evaluate patients and manage common obstetric complications. Skills to prevent and manage common obstetric complications and life threatening problems of the pregnant person will be emphasized. Skills for immediate assessment, supportive management of the newborn, including physiological, psychosocial and pharmacologic interventions will be incorporated. Students will have the opportunity to become certified in neonatal resuscitation. Interprofessional simulations will be coordinated throughout the course and clinical seminars to simulate actual patient scenarios with a focus on teamwork and communication.
NSMW 7955 Integration to Nurse-Midwifery Practice 6 Credits
Fee: $1500 Integration to Nurse-Midwifery Practice Fee
As the final midwifery course, transition to midwifery practice fosters the incorporation of all previous classroom and clinical experiences in order to prepare the nurse midwife for practice upon graduation. This course enables students to provide full-scope midwifery care while still having the advantages of being a student. This course is a final synthesis of primary care, gynecology, antepartum, intrapartum, postpartum, and newborn care, and therefore builds on all previous knowledge and skills from coursework and clinical. Students utilize both theory and evidence-based research to drive care and treatment decisions in the clinical setting. They will become familiar with the responsibility inherent to their emerging role as a nurse-midwife. In the healthcare setting, students will collaborate with members of the healthcare team and display evidence-based clinical practice. Within the healthcare team, midwifery clinical assessment and management skills across the reproductive lifespan into older age will be utilized. Students will safely conduct and deliver evidenced based primary care visits emphasizing disease prevention. They will manage gynecologic, family planning, antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum healthcare visits creating individual treatment plans and attend births in the intrapartum setting. They will manage the care of the newborn from birth through 28 days of life. Students will each have a variety of primary care and inpatient care settings. Evaluation and critique of care approaches of persons throughout the lifespan and of newborns is highlighted throughout clinical practice. Emphasis is placed on thorough examination of the impact of psychosocial and environmental factors on healthcare services as they relate to one’s wellbeing.