NURS 726 is a graduate-level course that examines the process of diagnostic reasoning as a framework to synthesize comprehensive assessment of patients throughout the lifespan. Students will learn how to collect, analyze, and interpret data from a variety of sources, including the physical examination, history of present illness, medical history, family history, social history, and psychosocial history.
They will also learn how to use this data to generate differential diagnoses and develop comprehensive care plans.
Course Objectives:
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Conduct comprehensive health assessments of patients across the lifespan using a diagnostic reasoning process.
- Apply evidence-based principles to the interpretation of health assessment findings.
- Generate differential diagnoses and develop comprehensive care plans for patients based on their health assessment findings.
- Communicate effectively with patients and their families about the health assessment process and findings.
- Document health assessments accurately and comprehensively.
Prerequisites:
NURS 726 is open to graduate students in the School of Nursing who have completed the following prerequisites:
- NURS 604: Advanced Pathophysiology
- NURS 606: Advanced Pharmacology
- NURS 612: Advanced Health Assessment
- NURS 715: Pathophysiology for Advanced Nursing Practice
Who Should Take This Course?
NURS 726 is a good choice for students who are interested in pursuing a career in primary care advanced practice nursing, such as primary care nurse practitioner or clinical nurse specialist in primary care. The course is also a good choice for students who want to learn more about advanced health assessment and diagnostic reasoning in primary care nursing.
How to Enroll
To enroll in NURS 726, students must complete the following steps:
- Submit an application to the UNC School of Nursing Graduate Program.
- Meet with the Graduate Program Director to discuss their academic and professional goals.
- Complete the required prerequisites.
- Register for the course through the UNC Student Information System.
