This course focuses on the multifaceted roles of the professional nurse in advanced practice in a variety of clinical settings. The role of the advanced practice nurse is analyzed within the changing environment of health care in terms of historical, social, economic, political, legal and ethical perspectives. The instructional methods are lecture, discussion and seminars. NUR 764 is an Advanced Health Assessment course. Students are taught how to perform extensive histories and physical examinations on clients.
Emphasis is placed on critical thinking and clinical decision making skills.
At the completion of the course, students must demonstrate, synthesize and communicate a comprehensive health assessment. A large component of my teaching consists of the clinical course work for the graduate nurse practitioner students. These students are involved in a practicum experience assuming increasing responsibility as an advanced practice nurse in the delivery of health to specific clients. The practicum is supplemented with theory and seminars giving the students the knowledge to accurately assess, diagnose, manage and evaluate the care of these clients. Faculty practice is an essential component of being a clinical faculty member.