This course serves as a graduate exploration of the nature and purpose of meta-theoretical and philosophical/theoretical thinking relevant to advanced practice roles. The development and utilization of knowledge from theories, practice, research, and evidence are critically examined. Selected theories and frameworks from nursing and the field of ethics, as well as those from other related disciplines, are examined for their application in professional nursing practice including ethical decision-making in complex healthcare situations.

This course focuses on identifying, measuring, and seeking to improve safety, health, and nurse sensitive outcomes. Various models of process/quality improvement will be analyzed such that the nurse in advanced roles can be proactive as a change agent while using strong interprofessional communication skills.

This course examines topics relevant to expanding knowledge of organizational and systems leadership, and provides the knowledge and skills needed to develop competence in health policy. The impact of leadership and health science on the delivery of health care is explored. The examination of healthcare financing issues as they present at the systems and organizational level is incorporated. Health policy influences and triggers are emphasized, and the impact of historical, political, economic, global, and cultural influences is examined.

A course, on a special topic in the discipline at the post-master degree level, offered on the basis of need, interest, or time lines. May be repeated for credit. See registrars office current class schedules Web page for specific semester description.

This course provides independent reading and/or research, at the post-master degree level, under the direction of a faculty member. Refer to the academic policy section for independent study policy. May be repeated for credit.

The focus of this course is to develop knowledge and management skills related to family systems theory/family assessment; preconception health, FNP prenatal and post partum family/newborn care; well-child care; developmental appraisal; and triage of the ill child. Evidence-based practice principles are integrated. Emphasis is on the planned nursing and collaborative medical management provided by the family nurse practitioner to promote health, maintain wellness,and intervene during illness.

This course continues the integration of knowledge, skills, and attitudes of the adult-gerontology nurse practitioner in the provision of comprehensive and collaborative care for acute and critically ill individuals with selected conditions. Throughout the course, concepts of safety, leadership skills, knowledge of health care systems, and interprofessional practice is emphasized as the individual develops beginning competency in the role. Prerequisite: 613.

This course further develops the acute care nurse practitioner competency knowledge, skills, and attitudes through continual enhancement of evidence-based care of the acutely or critically ill individual. A laboratory/simulation component will focus on specific skill development such as working with inserting and managing chest tubes, inserting central lines, and specialized oxygen-delivery (e.g. mechanical ventilation). Advanced therapeutic communication regarding end-of-life care in a culturally and spiritually sensitive manner is incorporated. Prerequisite: 620.

This course focuses on developing holistic, therapeutic, person-centered communication skills that are effective in promoting inclusivity, equity, diversity and relationship-building with patients, families, and other disciplines. Emphasis will be on exploring written, verbal and nonverbal communication, as well as, active listening skills and the science behind high-functioning teams.

This course focuses on developing and enhancing the students ability to be inquisitive scholars, engaged healthcare practitioners, and ethical leaders through the synthesis, integration, and evaluation of evidence to determine best practice that informs nursing practice at an advanced level. Students engage in meaningful and creative inquiry, critique health-related research, explore the ethical principles, and develop insights into the methodologic processes involved in conducting research and quality improvement activities.