Master of Science in Nursing

The Egan School admits students into the MSN program in three tracks: Nursing Leadership, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner programs. Two of the tracks lead to a master of science in nursing degree and fulfill academic requirements toward certification as a psychiatric or family nurse practitioner. In addition, the Egan School also offers a dual degree program to earn an MSN/MBA in conjunction with the Dolan School of Business. The master's degree programs require 38 to 76 course credits for completion, depending on the selected track.

The MSN programs 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 monitor 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 also currently practice in their advanced specialty.

Program Outcomes

A graduate of the Egan School MSN program will be able to:

Integrate an advanced level of knowledge from the discipline of nursing into professional practice, guided by a social justice lens, a liberal humanistic approach, and the natural and social sciences.
Implement, provide and evaluate holistic, person-centered care that is equitable, respectful, compassionate, coordinated, evidence-based and developmentally appropriate for diverse individuals.
Implement and evaluate 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.
Integrate nursing scholarship to transform healthcare, and identify opportunities to apply evidence to improve patient outcomes and advance the nursing profession.
Implement emerging principles of safety and improvement science to enhance quality, minimize risk of harm to patients and providers through both system effectiveness and individual performance
Foster partnerships with individuals, families, care team members, and communities, demonstrating professional communication and respect, to enhance the healthcare experience and improve outcomes.
Integrate the coordination of health care delivery by organizing resources to provide safe, cost-effective, and equitable care to diverse populations.
Integrate 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.
Model 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.
Implement practice 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.

CCNE Accreditation

The Master of Science in Nursing program at Fairfield University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

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

Prerequisite(s): NURS 7601, NURS 7608.

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

Prerequisite(s): NURS 7620 or NURS 7640 or NSAN 7669.

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

Prerequisite(s): NURS 7604, NURS 7641.

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.

Prerequisite(s): NURS 6521 or NURS 7609 or NURS 7610; NURS 7604, NURS 7641, NURS 7650.

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.

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.

NURS 7956 Practicum III: PMHNP 4-6 Credits

Fee: $1000 PMHNP Practicum Fee

Corequisite(s): NURS 7663.

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.