This theory course is designed to provide an understanding of the neurobiological and psycho-social concepts of mental health and illness, factors influencing human behavior and interaction, current somatotherapies, and the role of the psychiatric nurse as part of the interdisciplinary team. Previous course knowledge and communication skills provide a theoretical foundation in explaining, guiding, and predicting nursing action. Prereq: majors only.

Emphasizes identification of emerging issues that have an impact on the health care system and nursing in providing leadership to address these issues. Students analyze problems and process solutions from a nursing perspective with reasoned approach to their resolution. Prereq: majors only.

This course focuses on providing the student with the knowledge and skills to perform a comprehensive health assessment. Emphasis is placed on physical, psychosocial, and cultural assessment necessary to perform a high quality health history, review of systems, and head-to-toe comprehensive physical exam for clinical decision making that can be communicated in both written and oral form to members of the multi-disciplinary health care team. The course builds on knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology. Prereq: Majors only.

This theory course emphasizes the use of systems thinking and systems theory as a guide for analyzing and improving health systems. Careful consideration is given to the complex challenges of achieving quality care delivery and quality health outcomes for aggregates within specific environments. Course contents include systems theory, health systems analysis, shaping care delivery, research utilization, ethics, and leadership. Course fosters student integration of knowledge in preparation for clinical nursing leadership responsibilities. Prereq: majors only.