NURS 343
Nursing Therapeutics

1. Catalog Entry

NURS 343. Nursing Therapeutics
Two hours lecture, five hours laboratory/practicum (4).

Prerequisite: Upper Division Standing

Semester offered: Fall and Spring

Provides theoretical basis for and clinical experience in applying nursing practice techniques designed to promote balance in the client’s interaction with the environment.

2. Detailed Description of Content of the Course

The objectives and content of this Level 1 Course are derived from the School of Nursing’s philosophy and conceptual framework, and facilitate achievement of the School’s program objectives. Additionally, the major topics and skills covered in this course are common to major leadership and professional development nursing textbooks, and represent areas covered on standardized achievement examinations and the NCLEX-RN Test Plan. Current research and advancement in theory and clinical practice also determine content.

Emphasis is placed on the nursing care of the client experiencing illness and in health promotion in community-based settings.

1. Nursing Techniques
2. Medical Terminology
3. Medical asepsis and standard precautions
4. Personal hygiene and skin integrity; feeding
5. Medication administration
6. Activity and exercise
7. Surgical asepsis
8. Fluid and electrolytes
9. Safety
10. Comfort and pain
11. Documentation
12. Elimination
13. Oxygenation
14. Death and dying
15. Sensory perception and cognition

3. Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

The following teaching strategies will be employed:

• Lectures, discussion, multimedia, case studies, guided clinical practice, and lab experiences.

4. Goals and Objectives of the Course

Upon successful completion of the course, the student will be able to:

• Examine the client and family as a partner when applying the nursing process at a beginning level.
• Identify the established standards of professional nursing practice.
• Use knowledge and skills required to apply basic health care and information technologies in effective nursing care.
• Demonstrate beginning critical thinking skills related to standards of practice and the nursing process.
• Perform basic therapeutic nursing interventions citing rationale
• Apply basic communication skills required for professional nursing practice in the clinical and classroom setting.
• Recognize the influence of diversity among individuals in providing culturally sensitive care.
• Accept oneself as an independent learner who is beginning to assimilate new concepts, knowledge and experiences of professional nursing practice.

Accept accountability for actions and demonstrates novice leadership skills.

5. Assessment Measures

May include:

• Exams; Quizzes
• Paper
• Project, Individual or Group
• Care Plan
• Oral Presentations
• Class Participation

The course grade is determined by an evaluation of the extent to which the student meets the stated course objectives. Students must have a minimum of 75% (“C”) in theory, measured through testing. Other written or class participation work will be included in the final grade after the minimum 75% (“C”) has been attained through testing.

Final Grades are a combination of at least 75% (“C”) on both theory and clinical/lab components. Clinical/lab performance must be satisfactory to pass the course.

6. Other Course Information

Honor Code: By accepting admission to Radford University, each student makes a commitment to understand, support, and abide by the University Honor Code without compromise or exception. Violations of academic integrity will not be tolerated. This class will be conducted in strict observance of the Honor Code. Refer to your Student Handbook for details.

Students with Disabilities: If you are seeking classroom accommodations under the Americans With Disabilities Act, you are required to register with the Disability Resource Office (DRO). The DRO is located in Room 32, Tyler Hall, telephone 540-831-6350. To receive academic accommodations for this class, please obtain the proper DRO forms and meet with me no later than the second week of the semester.

Attendance: For Attendance policies and other course-related requirements, see School of Nursing Undergraduate Student Handbook and Course Description.

7. Review and Approval

Date Action Reviewed by
April 2006 Undergraduate Curriculum Marcella Griggs, Director