During the third semester students are introduced to therapeutic communication processes within the context of a nurse-client relationship. Additionally, students gain skill in information storage and retrieval using computer technology. Beginning with the fourth semester and continuing in the clinical courses, students build competence in using communication skills with clients across the primary, secondary and tertiary levels of prevention. Students enhance their knowledge and skills in the use of information technology to support nursing practice, education and research. During the seventh and eighth semesters, communication skills are further refined and developed as students encounter increasingly complex environments and practice issues.
Students practice oral communication skills in seminar presentations.
Students also examine the effect of current and emerging technologies on nursing practice. Critical thinking is conscious knowledge-based analysis and synthesis of data which result in logical outcomes. Critical thinking is a process involving reasoning, judging, and intuiting related to a variety of situations. This evidence also describes the purpose of critical thinking for the professional nurse. Conclusions based on bias or personal opinion are contrary to the critical thinking process.