Adv Diagnostic & Clin Reason

Catalog description

This course examines application of evidence-based practice to clinical laboratory methods and imaging modalities with a primary objective to develop diagnostic evaluation and clinical decision-making skills for advanced nursing practice. The course is divided into three sections: (a) key principles of diagnostic and screening tests, (b) fundamentals of clinical laboratory/diagnostic tests and imaging modalities, and (c) clinical applications in the selection and interpretation of diagnostic tests. The first part of the course is designed to provide the student with analytic skills for evidence-based practice exploring operating characteristics of diagnostic and screening tests and their role in clinical decision-making. The second part of the course is designed to provide the student with the scientific basis for diagnostic evaluation exploring the equipment and techniques, potential risks, and clinical utility of various laboratory methods and imaging modalities. The third and final part of the course uses a systems-based approach in relation to diagnostic evaluation of diseases/conditions commonly encountered in the primary care setting. In addition, students will acquire skills in the critical appraisal of research related to diagnostic testing to enable best practices. Students will also explore the economic, ethical, and legal implications of laboratory and diagnostic testing as well as the demographic and cultural variance observed in populations. Clinical Reasoning lies at the heart of formulating diagnoses, deciding what tests to order and selected treatments. To assist in the clinical decision-making process, this course will also examine and explore how we think, and what influences our thinking. We will examine the causes of diagnostic error and ways to avoid these pitfalls. Course fee applies. Refer to Schedule of Classes.