Advanced Health Assessment II

Catalog description

This course, the second in a sequence of clinical courses, builds upon concepts introduced in Advanced Health Assessment I. Theoretical and clinical foundations for comprehensive health assessment through the lifespan from birth through senescence are emphasized. The course furthers the development of the advanced practice role as students apply their physical assessment and diagnostic reasoning skills across diverse populations with increasing competence, confidence, and leadership. The focus of the course is on the comprehensive biopsychosocial assessment of populations from pediatrics (infants, school age children, and adolescents), through reproductive health, and geriatrics, as well as the management of commonly encountered problems in these populations. Emphasis is placed on age appropriate assessment techniques, the identification of normal and abnormal findings, the development of differential diagnoses, and the development of management plans that include teaching strategies that focus on prevention and anticipatory guidance. Course assignments, laboratory practice, and the use of Observed Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs) and case studies refine the students communication and interviewing skills, comprehensive assessment skills, and critical thinking skills essential for planning, delivering, and evaluating health care of individuals and families. Pre-requisite: NSG 665 : Advanced Health Assessment I.