Nursing (NURS)

NURS 0120  Credits: 0  
Success in Practical Nursing 1  Total Hours: 12  
This course assists students to gain/maintain competencies of Level 1 prior to inserting into Level 2 or Access to PN programs. In this course, students will develop a personal learning plan that focuses on developing and demonstrating mastery of nursing competencies (knowledge, skills, attitude and judgment). Successful completion of this course is necessary prior to insertion into the program.
NURS 0230  Credits: 0  
Success in Practical Nursing 2  Total Hours: 18  
This course assists students to gain/maintain competencies of levels 1 and 2 or Access prior to inserting into Level 3 of the PN or Access to PN programs. In this course, students will develop a personal learning plan that focuses on developing and demonstrating mastery of nursing competencies (knowledge, skills, attitude and judgment). Successful completion of this course is necessary prior to insertion the program.
NURS 0340  Credits: 0  
Success in Practical Nursing 3  Total Hours: 24  
This course assists students to gain/maintain competencies of Level 1, 2 or Access & 3 prior to inserting into Level 4 of the PN or Access to PN programs. In this course, students will develop a personal learning plan that focuses on developing and demonstrating mastery of nursing competencies (knowledge, skills, attitude and judgment). Successful completion of this course is necessary prior to insertion into the program.
NURS 1001  Credits: 1  
Professional Communication 1  Total Hours: 35  
This course provides learners with the foundational knowledge for caring and professional communication in nursing. It uses an experiential and self-reflective approach to develop self-awareness and interpersonal communication skills in the context of safe, competent and collaborative nursing practice. Communication theory, the nurse-client relationship, therapeutic communication, cross-cultural communication, and effective teamwork.
NURS 1002  Credits: 1  
Professional Practice 1  Total Hours: 27  
This theory course provides an introduction to the profession of practical nursing. Legislation that informs PN practice within British Columbia will be introduced. The history of nursing and specifically, the evolution of Practical Nursing within the Canadian Health Care System will be discussed. The philosophy and foundational concepts of this PN program curriculum are explored.
NURS 1003  Credits: 1  
Health Promotion 1  Total Hours: 30  
This course introduces the concepts of health promotion, the determinants of health, health inequities, and develops a beginning knowledge of normal growth and development. Topics include health enhancement, health protection, disease prevention, health restoration (recovery, care, and support).
NURS 1004  Credits: 1.5  
Variations in Health 1  Total Hours: 42  
This introductory course provides the learner with the foundations of disease and illness across the lifespan. Learners will gain an understanding of pathophysiological alterations of body systems. Nursing management of disease and illness across the lifespan with an emphasis on interventions and treatment is also discussed. Cultural diversity in healing practices will be explored as well as the incorporation of evidenced informed practice.
NURS 1005  Credits: 1  
Pharmacology 1  Total Hours: 30  
This introductory course examines the principles of pharmacology required to administer medications in a safe and professional manner. Medication administration requires the application of the nursing process for clinical decision-making. Various routes of medication administration are introduced and complementary, Indigenous and alternative remedies and polypharmacy across the lifespan are also explored.
NURS 1006  Credits: 4.5  
Integrated Nursing Practice 1  Total Hours: 135  
This course emphasizes the art and science of nursing, focusing on the development of basic nursing care and assessment. Learners will apply nursing knowledge through the practice of clinical decision making, nursing assessment skills, and nursing interventions aimed at the promotion of health, independence, and comfort. Classroom, laboratory, simulation, and other practice experiences will assist learners to integrate theory from other Level One courses.
NURS 1007  Credits: 3  
Consolidated Practice 1  Total Hours: 90  
This first practice experience provides the learner with an opportunity to integrate theory from Level One coursework into practice. Learners will gain experience in various settings with a focus on the healthy client. Learning the role of the Practical Nurse, personal care skills, organization of care, focused assessment, beginning medication administration and professional communication are emphasized in this course.
NURS 1150  Credits: 2  
Pharmacotherapeutics 1  Total Hours: 30  
This course introduces the study of pharmacology with an overview of important concepts and principles of pharmacotherapeutics. Emphasis will be given to the nurse's role in the safe administration of pharmacologic agents including ethical and legal considerations of drug administration. Students begin to apply pharmacological knowledge to selected pathophysiological states using critical thinking and the nursing process.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 1161, NURS 1162, NURS 1153, NURS 1164  
NURS 1153  Credits: 2  
Health Determinants  Total Hours: 30  
This course provides students with an overview of the determinants of health. Health is viewed as a holistic perspective. The World Health Organization definition of health provides direction as to the resources and environmental factors which interact to influence health. Students learn the importance of using a holistic framework to assess multiple factors influencing an individual's health. Relational inquiry and clinical reasoning are introduced as ways of examining client experiences. Students also examine the personal meaning of health and health promotion within the primary health care philosophy of health care delivery. This course also introduces students to the concept of transitions and how individual choices regarding transitions (developmental, health/illness, situational and organizational) have health implications.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 1150, NURS 1161, NURS 1162, NURS 1164  
NURS 1160  Credits: 1.5  
Nursing Pharmacotherapeutics 1  Total Hours: 22.5  
This course introduces the study of pharmacology with an overview of important concepts and principles of pharmacotherapeutics. Emphasis will be given to the nurse's role in the safe administration of pharmacologic agents including ethical and legal considerations of drug administration. Students begin to apply pharmacological knowledge to selected pathophysiological states using critical thinking and the nursing process.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 1161, NURS 1162, NURS 1163, NURS 1164  
NURS 1161  Credits: 2  
Introduction to Collaboration  Total Hours: 30  
This course introduces the nurse's legal scope of practice and ethical responsibility to provide professional nursing care. The Professional Standards and the CNA Code of Ethics are the guides for safe practice and continued professional growth. Relational inquiry, therapeutic relationships, collaboration, group dynamics, and relational skills are emphasized for effective professional communication.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 1150, NURS 1162, NURS 1153, NURS 1164  
NURS 1162  Credits: 2  
Intro to Pathophysiology  Total Hours: 30  
This course introduces the study of pathophysiology. Students build on existing knowledge of human anatomy and physiology by examining altered functions for selected body systems. Pertinent microbiology, immunology, epidemiology, pharmacology, diagnostic content and nursing interventions are integrated to reflect the interrelated and holistic nature of the body’s responses to illness and healing. Students use a process of critical inquiry to support evidence-informed practice as they engage with course material focusing on the older adult.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 1150, NURS 1161, NURS 1153, NURS 1164  
NURS 1163  Credits: 2.5  
Determinants of Health  Total Hours: 37.5  
This course provides students with an overview of the determinants of health. Health is viewed as a holistic perspective. The World Health Organization definition of health provides direction as to the resources and environmental factors which interact to influence health. Students learn the importance of using a holistic framework to assess multiple factors influencing an individual's health. Relational inquiry and clinical reasoning are introduced as ways of examining client experiences. Students also examine the personal meaning of health and health promotion within the primary health care philosophy of health care delivery. This course also introduces students to the concept of transitions and how individual choices regarding transitions (developmental, health/illness, situational and organizational) have health implications.
NURS 1164  Credits: 6.5  
Nursing Clinical Practice 1  Total Hours: 195  
This course introduces professional practice themes including nursing health assessment skills, self-regulation, knowledge application, psychomotor skills, evidence-informed practice, collaboration, organizational skills, patient safety, and relational practice. Students apply the nursing process as a foundational framework for clinical reasoning and decision-making in subacute/rehabilitation settings. Clinical practice including nursing labs, simulation and clinical placements provides experiences for integration of theory to practice. Theory from nursing science, other sciences and humanities informs practice.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 1150, NURS 1161, NURS 1162, NURS 1153  
NURS 1260  Credits: 2  
Pharmacotherapeutics 2  Total Hours: 30  
This course continues the study of pharmacology. Building on previous concepts and principles of pharmacotherapeutics and existing knowledge of human anatomy and physiology, pharmacological knowledge will be applied to the pathophysiological states related to chronic health challenges. The role of critical inquiry is applied to the nurse’s responsibilities of safe and effective medication administration.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 1261, NURS 1262, NURS 1263, NURS 1264  
NURS 1261  Credits: 2  
Collaboration with Older Adult  Total Hours: 30  
This course introduces the nurse’s professional role in health care with an ethical responsibility to communicate clearly and advocate for the older adult. Relational skills focus on the older adult within the contexts of aging, chronicity, and psychogeriatrics. Communication with family members as partners in caring will be addressed. Ethical and legal professional responsibilities in caring for the older adult will be explored, considering trends and issues in aging. Students continue to refine writing skills with an appreciation of the critical inquiry process. Leadership with professional responsibility for self-evaluation, conflict resolution/prevention and lifelong learning for professional growth will be introduced.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 1260, NURS 1262, NURS 1263, NURS 1264  
NURS 1262  Credits: 2  
Pathophysiology-ChronicDisease  Total Hours: 30  
This course continues the study of pathophysiology with a focus on chronic health disorders. Students build on existing knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology by examining altered functions for selected body systems. Pertinent microbiology, immunology, epidemiology, pharmacology, diagnostic content and nursing interventions are integrated to reflect the interrelated and holistic nature of the body’s responses to illness and healing. Students use a process of critical inquiry to support evidence-informed practice as they engage with course material.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 1162  
Co-requisite(s): NURS 1260, NURS 1261, NURS 1263, NURS 1264  
NURS 1263  Credits: 2  
Transitions Older Adults  Total Hours: 30  
This course focuses on the interrelationship between social determinants of health, transition to older adulthood and health promotion. Holistic assessment emphasizes normal growth and development processes of the older adult providing students with the tools to begin planning health promotion strategies. The concepts of relational inquiry, clinical reasoning, active aging, quality of life, cultural safety, and health promotion research are introduced and explored within the context of older adult.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 1260, NURS 1261, NURS 1262, NURS 1264  
NURS 1264  Credits: 6.5  
Nursing Clinical Practice 2  Total Hours: 195  
This course expands the professional practice themes including nursing health assessment skills, self-regulation, knowledge application, psychomotor skills, evidence-informed practice, collaboration, organizational skills, patient safety, and relational practice. Students apply the nursing process as a foundational framework for clinical reasoning and decision-making in subacute/rehabilitation settings. Clinical practice including nursing labs, simulation and clinical placements provides experiences for integration of theory to practice. Theory from nursing science, other sciences and humanities informs practice.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 1260, NURS 1261, NURS 1262, NURS 1263  
NURS 1357  Credits: 2  
Role Transitions  Total Hours: 30  
This course is designed to assist with the transition of the practicing LPN into the BSN role. Similarities and differences of the two professional groups will be studied and learners will expand on existing theoretical and practical knowledge of all aspects of professional practice. The interrelationship of research, theory, philosophy and practice is examined. Learners will be introduced to frameworks which will assist the LPN through the change of attitudes and beliefs necessary for a LPN to BSN role transition. Common transitions such as health/illness, developmental, organizational transitions and culturally safe care will be examined in the context of current LPN practice and new BSN perspectives.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 1399  
NURS 1358  Credits: 6  
Maternal and Newborn Health  Total Hours: 142  
The focus of this course is on maternal nursing care. The content builds on knowledge from the Practical Nursing curriculum and on the accumulated knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology. The course begins with an overview of family-centered care and family nursing theory and moves on to explore issues influencing women's health in contemporary society with an emphasis on the nurses' role in health promotion and risk reduction. Physiological changes and responses to pregnancy and birth, gynecological and reproductive complications, prenatal and antenatal risks, birthing interventions and postpartum complications will be discussed. Microbiology, immunology and pharmacology content and nursing theory will be integrated throughout the course to reflect the interrelated and holistic nature of the body’s response to illness and healing. The clinical component of the course will offer consolidation of theory to practice in the care of the family before, during and after childbirth.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 1399  
Co-requisite(s): NURS 1359  
NURS 1359  Credits: 6  
Child Health  Total Hours: 142  
This course provides additional theoretical and clinical experience in the care of children and families. Learners will build on existing knowledge of caring for the infant to adolescent population by focusing on synthesis of knowledge, skills and attitudes that enable nurses to provide competent care to vulnerable children and families in transition. Learners will be provided opportunities to apply holistic assessment of growth and development from infancy to adolescence. Themes of culturally safe care and transition related to children will be built upon. A review of anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology of pediatric cardiovascular, neurological, endocrine, musculoskeletal and gastrointestinal body systems is included. Learners will build on previous pharmacological knowledge with additional knowledge specific to care of children such as pediatric dosages. The clinical experience will support the consolidation of learning.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 1399  
Co-requisite(s): NURS 1358  
NURS 1370  Credits: 6  
Clinical Consolidation 1  Total Hours: 180  
This consolidated clinical experience supports the integration of theory to practice in subacute/rehabilitation settings.
NURS 1399  Credits: 6  
Health Assessment  Total Hours: 150  
Health Assessment is the integration of art and science of nursing. This course is designed to help a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) transition to a Registered Nurse (RN) practice with a solid understanding of knowledge, skills and abilities required to make strong patient focused clinical decisions at the bedside. The course begins with an overview of the complexity of health care by examining trends in the health of Canadians, the health care system and nursing practice. The Vancouver Community College (VCC) BScN Framework for Healing and Health Promotion will be introduced as a conceptual model to illustrate the role of the nurse in promoting health and healing while recognizing the unique values, beliefs, abilities, and needs of the person at the center of care and understanding the myriad of factors influencing health and health care. The course will connect accumulated knowledge from the LPN program related to anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, lab values and common diagnostic tests to health assessment. In addition, there will be a strong emphasis on reviewing and advancing physical, technological and communication skills to obtain objective and subjective data necessary for comprehensive health history and physical assessment. While a full health assessment is the focus, neurological, cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, and genitourinary system will be highlighted to further understanding of how acute and chronic physiological changes in each system impact other systems. The clinical component of the course will be in an acute care setting.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 1357  
NURS 2001  Credits: 1  
Professional Communication 2  Total Hours: 30  
This course provides the learner with an opportunity to develop professional communication skills with the older adult, and clients requiring end-of-life care. Interprofessional communication knowledge and skills are further developed.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 1007  
NURS 2002  Credits: 1  
Professional Practice 2  Total Hours: 21  
This course examines the legislation influencing PN practice with clients experiencing chronic illness and those in complex care settings. Specific professional issues such as responsibility, accountability, ethical practice and leadership relevant to the PN role in residential care will be explored. Critical thinking and decision making specific to the care clients with chronical health challenges and interprofessional practice will also be addressed.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 1007  
NURS 2003  Credits: 1  
Health Promotion 2  Total Hours: 30  
This course focuses on health promotion as it relates to the aging process, including exploring health promotion activities aimed at supporting clients in maintaining their health. The concepts of health promotion, physical and mental wellness, normal aging changes, cultural diversity and cultural competency in health and healing, including end-of-life practices are examined.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 1007  
NURS 2004  Credits: 1.5  
Variations in Health 2  Total Hours: 45  
This course focuses on pathophysiology as it relates to the aging process and selected chronic illnesses. The main focus of this course is on the care of the older adult experiencing a health challenge. Cultural diversity in healing practices will be explored as well as evidence informed research and practice.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 1007  
NURS 2005  Credits: 1  
Pharmacology 2  Total Hours: 30  
This course builds on Pharmacology I to increase learners' understanding of pharmacotherapeutics prescribed for illnesses clients experience across the lifespan. Topics include drug classifications and links with common diseases/illnesses based on a body system approach and drug resistance.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 1007  
NURS 2006  Credits: 6  
Integrated Nursing Practice 2  Total Hours: 180  
This course builds on the foundation of Level One and emphasizes the development of clinical decision making, nursing assessments and interventions to promote the health of older adults. Classroom, laboratory, simulation, and other practice experiences will help learners to integrate theory from Level One and Two courses to provide safe, competent, and ethical nursing care with older adults.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 1007  
NURS 2007  Credits: 4  
Consolidated Practice 2  Total Hours: 120  
This clinical experience provides learners with the opportunity to integrate theory from Level One and Two courses into practice. Learners will work with aging clients and/or those with chronic illness in residential care settings. Medication administration, nursing care, organization, comprehensive health assessment, wound care and leadership are emphasized in this course.
NURS 2101  Credits: 1.5  
Professional Communication A  Total Hours: 45  
This course provides learners with the foundational knowledge for caring and professional communication in nursing. It uses an experiential and self-reflective approach to develop self-awareness and interpersonal communication skills in the context of safe, competent, and collaborative nursing practice. Communication theory, the nurse-client relationship, therapeutic communication, cross-cultural communication, and effective teamwork will be covered. The learner is provided with an opportunity to develop professional communication skills with the clients requiring end of life care.
NURS 2102  Credits: 1.5  
Professional Practice A  Total Hours: 45  
This theory course introduces the profession of Practical Nursing and the BC legislation that informs the practice. The history of nursing and specifically, the evolution of Practical Nursing within the Canadian health care system will be discussed. The philosophy and foundational concepts of the Provincial Practical Nursing Program are explored. As well, the legislation influencing Practical Nursing practice with clients experiencing chronic illness and those in complex care settings is examined. Specific professional issues such as responsibility, accountability, ethical practice, and leadership relevant to the Practical Nursing role in complex care are explored. Critical thinking and decision making specific to the care of the chronically ill and inter-professional practice will also be addressed. This class is part of the full-time Access to Practical Nursing Program.
Pre-requisite(s): Admission to the Access to Practical Nursing Program  
NURS 2103  Credits: 1  
Health Promotion A  Total Hours: 30  
This introductory course will increase the learners understanding of health promotion within the Canadian context. This includes health enhancement, health protection, disease prevention and health restoration (recovery, care and support). Knowledge of growth and development, health inequities and determinants of health will support the Practical Nurse to provide culturally appropriate and holistic care.
Pre-requisite(s): Admission to the Access to Practical Nursing Program  
NURS 2104  Credits: 2  
Variations in Health A  Total Hours: 60  
This course provides the learner with the foundations of disease and illness across the lifespan. Learners will gain an understanding of pathophysiological alterations of body systems. Nursing management of disease and illness across the lifespan with an emphasis on interventions and treatment is also discussed. The learners understanding of pathophysiology as it relates to the aging process and selected chronic illness will increase. A major focus of this course is on the care of the older adult experiencing a health challenge. Cultural diversity in healing practices will be explored as well as evidence informed research and practice.
Pre-requisite(s): Admission to the Access to Practical Nursing Program  
NURS 2105  Credits: 2  
Pharmacology A  Total Hours: 60  
This course examines the principles of pharmacology required to administer medications in a safe and professional manner. Medication administration requires the application of the nursing process for clinical decision-making. The various routes of medication administration are introduced. Complementary, Indigenous, alternative remedies, and polypharmacy across the lifespan are explored. The learners will gain an understanding of pharmacology and medication administration across the lifespan. Also included are the topics of substance abuse and addiction.
NURS 2106  Credits: 6  
Integrated Nursing Practice A  Total Hours: 180  
This course emphasizes the art and science of nursing, focusing on the development of nursing care and assessment. Learners will apply nursing knowledge through the practice of clinical decision making, nursing assessments, and nursing interventions aimed at promoting health, independence, and comfort. Classroom, laboratory, simulation, and other practice experiences will assist learners to integrate theory from other Access courses to provide safe, competent, and ethical nursing care with clients.
Pre-requisite(s): Admission to the Access to Practical Nursing Program  
NURS 2107  Credits: 4  
Consolidated Practice A  Total Hours: 120  
This clinical experience provides learners with the opportunity to integrate theory from the Access level into practice. Learners will practice with aging clients and/or those with chronic illness in complex care settings. Medication administration, nursing care, organization, comprehensive health assessment, wound care and introduction to leadership are emphasized in this course.
NURS 2160  Credits: 2  
Pharmacotherapeutics 3  Total Hours: 30  
This course is a continuation of the study of pharmacology. Building on previous concepts and principles of pharmacotherapeutics and existing knowledge of human anatomy and physiology, pharmacological knowledge will be applied to the pathophysiological states related to acute medical-surgical health challenges. Critical inquiry is applied to the nurse’s responsibilities for safe and effective medication administration.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 2161, NURS 2162, NURS 2163, NURS 2164  
NURS 2161  Credits: 2  
Professional Collaboration  Total Hours: 30  
This course focuses on the nurse's professional role as a leader in health care organizations to promote quality practice environments. Emphasis is on professional relational skills required to enhance a healthy workplace culture within the context of acute care.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 2160, NURS 2162, NURS 2163, NURS 2164  
NURS 2162  Credits: 2  
Pathophysiology Acute Illness  Total Hours: 30  
This course broadens the study of pathophysiology to encompass acute disorders. Students build on existing knowledge of human anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology by examining altered functions for selected body systems. Pertinent microbiology, immunology, epidemiology, pharmacology, diagnostic content and nursing interventions are integrated to reflect the interrelated and holistic nature of the body’s responses to illness and healing for clients in acute care. Students use a process of critical inquiry to support evidence-informed practice as they engage with course material.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 2160, NURS 2161, NURS 2163, NURS 2164  
NURS 2163  Credits: 2  
Health Illness Transitions  Total Hours: 30  
This course builds on prior knowledge of health, social determinants of health, health promotion and transition theory to focus on young to middle adults in acute care. The course explores health-illness transitions by assessing “where the person is situated” in terms of health, developmental stage and transitions to understand their readiness for learning tailored to the individual and their family. Emphasis is on principles of adult teaching and learning and the design of health promotion strategies that are tailored to the individual and their family.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 2160, NURS 2161, NURS 2162, NURS 2164  
NURS 2164  Credits: 6.5  
Nursing Clinical Practice 3  Total Hours: 195  
This course expands the professional practice themes including focused and comprehensive nursing assessment skills, self-regulation, knowledge application, psychomotor skills, evidence-informed care, collaboration, leadership, organizational skills, patient safety, and relational practice. Students apply the nursing process as a foundational framework for clinical reasoning and decision-making with stable persons experiencing acute health issues in the acute care setting. Clinical practice including nursing labs, simulation and clinical experiences provides an opportunity for integration of theory. Theory from nursing science, other sciences and humanities informs practice.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 2160, NURS 2161, NURS 2162, NURS 2163  
NURS 2261  Credits: 2  
Collaboration with Families  Total Hours: 30  
This course builds on concepts developed in relational practice from previous collaboration courses. Using multiple ways of knowing, students will explore healing and health promotion with families. Students will explore trends and issues and develop conceptual and experiential knowledge regarding relational techniques/processes that foster health-promoting relationships with families.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 2263, NURS 2264, NURS 2265, NURS 2266  
NURS 2263  Credits: 2  
Childbearing Family Transition  Total Hours: 30  
This course explores relational inquiry that considers context, culture and the lived experience of individuals and families. Emphasis is placed on developing assessment, planning and intervention skills with child bearing families that incorporates diversity and explores health promotion and prevention strategies. There is a strong emphasis on growth and development, social determinants of health and culturally appropriate healing-centered nursing care.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 2261, NURS 2264, NURS 2265, NURS 2266  
NURS 2264  Credits: 6.5  
Nursing Clinical Practice 4  Total Hours: 204  
This course expands the professional practice themes including focused and comprehensive nursing assessment skills, self-regulation, knowledge application, psychomotor skills, evidence-informed care, collaboration, leadership, organizational skills, patient safety, and relational practice. Students apply the nursing process as a foundational framework for clinical reasoning and decision-making within maternal and pediatric care settings. Clinical practice including nursing labs, simulation and clinical experiences provides an opportunity for integration of theory. Theory from nursing science, other sciences and humanities informs practice.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 2261, NURS 2263, NURS 2265, NURS 2266  
NURS 2265  Credits: 2  
Child Health and Pharmacology  Total Hours: 30  
This course focuses on child health care. The content builds on previous Nursing Pharmacotherapeutics courses and on existing knowledge of human anatomy and physiology in examining pathophysiology in pediatric body systems. This course expands on drug calculations previously learned in the context of adult populations, emphasizing pediatric drugs and dosages. Childhood illnesses, developmental disabilities and the impact on the family are addressed. Pertinent microbiology, immunology, epidemiology, pharmacology and diagnostic content will be integrated throughout the course to reflect the interrelated and holistic nature of the body’s response to illness and healing. Students use critical inquiry to support evidence-informed practice as they engage with course material.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 2261, NURS 2263, NURS 2264, NURS 2266  
NURS 2266  Credits: 2  
Maternal Health & Pharmacology  Total Hours: 30  
The focus of this course is on maternal nursing care. The content builds on previous Nursing Pharmacotherapeutics courses, and on existing knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology. Physiological changes and responses to pregnancy and birth, gynecological and reproductive complications, prenatal and antenatal risks, birthing interventions and postpartum complications are discussed. Pertinent microbiology, immunology, epidemiology, pharmacology and diagnostic content will be integrated throughout the course to reflect the interrelated and holistic nature of the body’s response to illness and healing. Students use critical inquiry to support evidence-informed practice as they engage with course material.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 2261, NURS 2263, NURS 2264, NURS 2265  
NURS 2370  Credits: 6  
Clinical Consolidation 2  Total Hours: 180  
This consolidated clinical experience supports the integration of theory to practice with stable persons with acute health issues In the acute care setting.
NURS 3001  Credits: 1  
Professional Communication 3  Total Hours: 21  
This course focuses on specific professional communication skills used with clients and care providers across the lifespan requiring care in the community.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 2007 or NURS 2107  
Co-requisite(s): NURS 3002, NURS 3003, NURS 3004, NURS 3005  
NURS 3002  Credits: 1  
Professional Practice 3  Total Hours: 21  
This course integrates the concepts from previous professional practice courses and introduces the learner to practice in the community. The role of the practical nurse as leader is emphasized in interactions with clients, families and other health disciplines.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 2007 or NURS 2107  
Co-requisite(s): NURS 3001, NURS 3003, NURS 3004, NURS 3005  
NURS 3003  Credits: 1  
Health Promotion 3  Total Hours: 36  
This course is focused on health promotion as it relates to the continuum of care across the lifespan. Health promotion in the context of mental illness, physical and developmental disabilities, and Maternal/Child health is highlighted. Normal growth and development from conception to middle adult is addressed.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 2007 or NURS 2107  
Co-requisite(s): NURS 3001, NURS 3002, NURS 3004, NURS 3005  
NURS 3004  Credits: 1.5  
Variations in Health 3  Total Hours: 45  
This course focuses on the continuum of care and the development of knowledge related to health challenges managed in the community setting. Pathophysiology and nursing management of clients requiring home health care, rehabilitation, and supportive services such as community living and disabilities will be explored. Cultural diversity in healing approaches will be explored as well as the incorporation of evidence informed research and practice.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 2007 or NURS 2107  
Co-requisite(s): NURS 3001, NURS 3002, NURS 3003, NURS 3005  
NURS 3005  Credits: 4  
Integrated Nursing Practice 3  Total Hours: 120  
This practical course builds on the theory and practice from Levels One and Two or Access. Through classroom, laboratory, simulation, and other practice experiences, learners will continue to develop and practice comprehensive nursing assessment, planning and developing knowledge and interventions for clients experiencing multiple health challenges.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 2007 or NURS 2107  
Co-requisite(s): NURS 3001, NURS 3002, NURS 3003, NURS 3004  
NURS 3006  Credits: 2  
Consolidated Practice 3  Total Hours: 65  
This clinical experience will introduce learners to community practice and an opportunity to apply and adapt knowledge gained in Levels One, Two, or Access, and Level Two, within a continuum of care for clients across the lifespan. Learners may gain experience through simulation and in a variety of community and residential care agencies and settings. These hours may be offered as CPE 3 or integrated into the Integrated Nursing Practice 3 course as practice hours.
NURS 3160  Credits: 6  
Mental Health Nursing  Total Hours: 90  
This course focuses on mental health, mental illness, and addictions in the Canadian context. Psychiatric disorders are discussed with a focus on the applications of the core concepts of relational nursing practice. Examples of these core concepts are: the determinants of health and well-being; therapeutic, interprofessional collaboration with clients and families; cultural safety and humility; and trauma-informed practice. These core concepts will be integrated throughout the course.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 3163, NURS 3164, NURS 3265  
NURS 3163  Credits: 3  
Situational Transitions  Total Hours: 45  
This course uses health promotion and population health frameworks to inform an understanding of mental health that goes beyond diseases and individual behaviors to consider the social determinants of mental health (SDMH). Situational transitions that are layered onto the SDMH create further health challenges. Health promotion focuses on advocating for the principles of primary health care to achieve resilience, justice and empowerment for individuals and families living with addictions and mental health challenges.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 3160, NURS 3164, NURS 3265  
NURS 3164  Credits: 3  
Clinical Mental Health  Total Hours: 90  
This clinical course will provide students with opportunities to apply relational practice to the establishment, maintenance, and termination of therapeutic relationships with clients experiencing psychiatric-mental health challenges in the acute care setting. Students will engage with community mental health services. Students identify how Social Determinants of Mental Health influence the lives of individuals and lead to the exacerbation or amelioration of mental health issues. Theory from nursing science, other sciences, and humanities informs practice.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 3160, NURS 3163, NURS 3265  
NURS 3262  Credits: 2  
Pathophys Complex Illness  Total Hours: 30  
This pathophysiology course focuses on high acuity with medical-surgical health conditions requiring complex care. Students build on existing knowledge of human anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology by examining altered functions for selected body systems. Pertinent microbiology, immunology, epidemiology, pharmacology, diagnostic content and nursing interventions are integrated to reflect the interrelated and holistic nature of the body’s responses to illness and healing for clients in acute care. Students use a critical inquiry to support evidence-informed practice as they engage with course material.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 3263, NURS 3264, NURS 3266  
NURS 3263  Credits: 2  
Multiple Transitions  Total Hours: 30  
This course uses health promotion and population health frameworks to inform an understanding of multiple transitions. Examination of the acutely ill adult and their family beyond the diseases and individual health issues to consider the impact of social determinants of health (SDOH) on transitions. Health promotion focuses on advocating for the principles of primary health care to facilitate hope, coping, resilience, social justice and empowerment for individuals and families living with multiple transitions.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 3160, NURS 3163, NURS 3164, MATH 1111 or equivalent, NURS 3265  
Co-requisite(s): NURS 3262, NURS 3264, NURS 3266  
NURS 3264  Credits: 9  
Nursing Clinical Practice 6  Total Hours: 270  
This course expands the professional practice themes including focused and comprehensive nursing assessment skills, self-regulation, knowledge application, psychomotor skills, evidence-informed care, collaboration, leadership, organizational skills, patient safety, and relational practice. Students apply the nursing process as a foundational framework for clinical reasoning and decision-making with highly complex persons experiencing multiple acute health issues in the acute care setting. Clinical practice including nursing labs, simulation and clinical experiences provides an opportunity for integration of theory. Theory from nursing science, other sciences and humanities informs practice.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 3160, NURS 3163, NURS 3164, MATH 1111 or equivalent, NURS 3265  
Co-requisite(s): NURS 3262, NURS 3263, NURS 3266  
NURS 3265  Credits: 3  
Nursing Research  Total Hours: 45  
This introductory research course incorporates a study of research concepts and techniques that enables students to analyze nursing studies and apply pertinent findings to nursing care. Students will acquire familiarity with the process of scientific inquiry as the basis for generation of nursing knowledge. Underlying paradigms shaping nursing research will be described in the analysis of qualitative and quantitative research. Students will gain knowledge and skill in research utilization as the foundation of evidence-based nursing practice.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 3160, NURS 3163, NURS 3164  
NURS 3266  Credits: 2  
Focused Practice Preparation  Total Hours: 30  
This course is an independent study intended to provide students with additional knowledge in preparation for their final preceptorship. Using a process of inquiry and in collaboration with faculty, students will identify a specific nursing practice area of personal and professional interest and source activities to expand their knowledge and understanding of the nurse’s role in the selected practice context.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 3160, NURS 3163, NURS 3164, MATH 1111 or equivalent, NURS 3265  
Co-requisite(s): NURS 3262, NURS 3263, NURS 3264  
NURS 3370  Credits: 6  
Clinical Consolidation 3  Total Hours: 180  
The intent of the consolidated clinical experience is to support the integration of theory and practice from all previous terms. The nurse’s role in the interdisciplinary team is emphasized.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 3262, NURS 3263, NURS 3264, NURS 3266  
NURS 4001  Credits: 1  
Professional Communication 4  Total Hours: 21  
The focus of this course will be on the advancement of professional communication within the acute care setting with clients across the lifespan. The practice of collaboration with health care team members, and clients will be further developed.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 3006  
Co-requisite(s): NURS 4002, NURS 4003, NURS 4004, NURS 4005  
NURS 4002  Credits: 1  
Professional Practice 4  Total Hours: 21  
This course is intended to prepare the learner for the role of the practical nurse (PN) in managing clients with acute presentation of illness. Legislation influencing PN practice, specific professional practice issues and ethical practice pertinent to PN practice in acute care environments will be explored. Practice issues that occur across the lifespan will be considered. Collaborative practice with other health care team members and specifically the working partnership with RN's in the acute care setting will be explored.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 3006  
Co-requisite(s): NURS 4001, NURS 4003, NURS 4004, NURS 4005  
NURS 4003  Credits: 1  
Health Promotion 4  Total Hours: 24  
This course focuses on health promotion in the context of caring for clients experiencing an acute exacerbation of chronic illness or an acute episode of illness. Examination of health promoting strategies during hospitalization to improve or help maintain clients' health status after discharge occur. Topics also include how to preparing clients for discharge from care through teaching and learning of health promoting strategies.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 3006  
Co-requisite(s): NURS 4001, NURS 4002, NURS 4004, NURS 4005  
NURS 4004  Credits: 2  
Variations in Health 4  Total Hours: 51  
This course focuses on pathophysiology as it relates to acute disease and illness of clients across the lifespan, specifically the care of the client experiencing acute illness including nursing interventions and treatment options. Implications of the acute exacerbation of chronic illness will be addressed. Cultural diversity in healing practices will be explored as well as evidenced informed research and practice.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 3006  
Co-requisite(s): NURS 4001, NURS 4002, NURS 4003, NURS 4005  
NURS 4005  Credits: 6  
Integrated Nursing Practice 4  Total Hours: 180  
This practical course emphasizes the development of nursing skills aimed at promoting health and healing with individuals experiencing acute health challenges across the lifespan. Classroom, laboratory, simulation, and integrated practice experiences will help students build on theory and practice from Levels One, Two or Access, and Level Three, to integrate new knowledge and skills relevant to the acute care setting.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 3006  
Co-requisite(s): NURS 4001, NURS 4002, NURS 4003, NURS 4004  
NURS 4006  Credits: 6.5  
Consolidated Practice 4  Total Hours: 200  
This clinical experience provides learners with the opportunity to integrate theory from all Levels into the role of the practical nurse in the acute medical and surgical setting. Learners will focus on clients with exacerbations of chronic illness and/or acute illness across the lifespan and will consolidate knowledge and skills such as: post operative care, surgical wound management, IV therapy, focused assessment, and clinical decision-making in acute care settings.
NURS 4007  Credits: 1  
Transition to Preceptorship  Total Hours: 30  
Transition to Preceptorship will prepare the learner for the final practice experience. A combination of instructor led simulation experiences and self directed learning will provide the learner with increased competence and confidence to practice in their final practice experience.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 4006  
NURS 4008  Credits: 6  
Preceptorship  Total Hours: 180  
This final practice experience provides an opportunity for the learner to demonstrate integration and consolidation of knowledge, skills and abilities within the realities of the workplace, and become practice ready. Note: This experience may occur through a variety of practice experience models, including the preceptorship model, under the immediate supervision of a single, fully qualified and experienced LPN or RN or RPN and/or within the context of a collaborative learning environment as a participating team member.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 4006 and NURS 4007  
NURS 4163  Credits: 3  
Community Health  Total Hours: 45  
The philosophy of Primary Health Care will provide direction to an exploration of public health nursing. Students will learn how to do a holistic community assessment and plan and evaluate health promotion activities relevant to an identified community population. Students will understand the role and scope of the public health nurse. An understanding of epidemiological concepts is central to public health nursing and will be integrated throughout the course to expand the understanding of community as client. An exploration of local and global socio-political trends will emphasize the need for inter-sectoral collaboration and action.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 4164, NURS 4166, NURS 4168, NURS 4169  
NURS 4164  Credits: 3  
Community Health Clinical  Total Hours: 90  
This clinical course provides students with the opportunity to utilize the nursing knowledge, skills and abilities required to provide care in public health settings. Students further their understanding of the principles of primary health care, teaching and learning, advocacy, community organizing, and the concept of epidemiology as they establish partnerships to promote health with persons in homes, health clinics, schools, and community settings. Theory from nursing science, other sciences and humanities informs practice.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 4163, NURS 4166, NURS 4168, NURS 4169  
NURS 4166  Credits: 2  
Canadian Health Care System  Total Hours: 30  
This course introduces the student to the ways that nurses influence healthy public policymaking in Canada, including public policy processes in the context of health care issues. The student will explore how nurses can influence policy reform and its implications to the health care system. The student will practice formulating and articulating a position. This course will help the student to advance critical thinking and understanding of Canada’s evolving health care system in political, social, economic, and historical contexts.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 4163, NURS 4164, NURS 4168, NURS 4169  
NURS 4168  Credits: 2  
Ethics in Health Care  Total Hours: 30  
This course is designed to provide students with an in-depth study of ethics as it applies to the nursing profession. The course activities will facilitate exploration of numerous ethical issues related to health promotion work. Emphasis includes philosophical theories, principles of health care ethics, decision making processes, and morality as they inform a detailed discussion of ethical issues in nursing from a professional, interdisciplinary and structural (organizational ethics and political-economic) perspective. A core aspect of this experience is to learn how to co-create safe moral communities of practice and to engage in reflexive dialogue and praxis with peers, interdisciplinary partners and the various people that nurses will encounter within their health promotion practice.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 4163, NURS 4164, NURS 4166, NURS 4169  
NURS 4169  Credits: 2  
Health Law  Total Hours: 30  
This course gives students the opportunity to develop an understanding of the origin and sources of the law as it applies to the Canadian health care system. The course stimulates an appreciation for legal terminology, reasoning, and processes and the basic principles of law that apply to and govern the delivery of health care services in Canada, emphasizing British Columbia. The course develops an ability to identify the legal aspects of health care practice, governance and administration and an ability to determine when and how to use legal counsel effectively.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 4163, NURS 4164, NURS 4166, NURS 4168  
NURS 4261  Credits: 3  
Nursing Leadership  Total Hours: 45  
This course offers students the opportunity to advance their knowledge regarding nursing leadership and how nursing leadership plays a vital role in the future of nursing and the delivery of health care. Students will develop skills and knowledge regarding coordination and influencing change, within the context of nursing care. Students will consider and develop their personal philosophy of leadership, considering factors such as advocacy, quality improvement, cultural safety, relational leadership, the role of communication and collaboration in nursing leadership and the role and function of the interdisciplinary team.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 4264  
NURS 4264  Credits: 12  
Focused Preceptorship  Total Hours: 360  
This course is designed to provide the student with consolidated practice experience. A concentrated experience at a primary site will enhance and further develop the student’s scope of practice. A variety of clinical activities will facilitate the integration of core curriculum concepts including determinants of health, transitions, and principles of primary health care. An evidence-informed approach will be reflected in the practice area. Preceptorship students will have the opportunity to further integrate theory and skills in preparation for entry to practice. The student will be partnered with an RN preceptor who will assist the student to gradually assume responsibility for entry-level RN practice.
Co-requisite(s): NURS 4261  
NURS 4064   Credits: 4  
Population and Public Health   Total Hours: 120
This course provides students with the opportunity to utilize nursing knowledge, skills and abilities required to promote population health. The practicum engages students to collaborate with families, groups, communities and/or populations and inter-sectoral partners to build capacity to prevent health issues and to promote health equity with a key focus on addressing the social, political, and economic conditions that impact health. Students learn how to apply principles and evidence in public health, population health promotion, and primary health care in various settings.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 3262, NURS 3263, NURS 3264, NURS 3266, NURS 3370   
Co-requisite(s): NURS 4163, NURS 4166, NURS 4165   
NURS 4165   Credits: 3  
Ethics and Law in Health Care   Total Hours: 45  
This course is designed to provide students with an in-depth study of ethics and law as applied within health and health care systems. Students explore legal terminology, reasoning and processes and the basic principles of law that apply to and govern the delivery of health care services and nursing practice in context of inter-sectoral care. Building off of previous BScN courses, students are engaged to explore ethical theories and principles in relation to understanding and addressing ethical issues in nursing from a professional, interdisciplinary, and structural (organizational ethics and socio-political-economic) perspective.
Pre-requisite(s): NURS 3262, NURS 3263, NURS 3264, NURS 3266, NURS 3370
Co-requisite(s): NURS 4064, NURS 4163, NURS 4166