Emphasis is on health, basic human needs, and adaptation to maintain homeostasis. The concept of self-awareness is developed as the student is socialized into the nursing profession. Student outcomes are evaluated through a clinical evaluative process, written nursing care plans and a reaction paper, comprehensive exams, class participation and discussion, and laboratory competencies. They participate in verbal communication as a member of a reflective group. Students demonstrate critical thinking about professional data, define and respond to risk factors, and plan corresponding therapeutic nursing intervention.
Students utilize their clinical life experiences to demonstrate some course competencies.
Achievement of course outcomes requires participation in individual and group discussion of professional issues, use of critical thinking for professional decision making, and use of professional writing communication as well as electronic search and communication. The student develops skills needed to provide wholistic nursing care for healthy childbearing families and for women in relation to selected women's health issues. Students explore the physiological, psychological, and developmental stressors experienced by childbearing families. Students employ critical thinking to identify health risk factors, and to select nursing interventions and communications to help individuals and the family adapt. Students evaluate social, cultural, and societal issues that affect women's health and childbearing.