NURS 330: Foundations for Professional Practice
Prerequisites: Upper Division Standing; Registered Nurse Students
Credit Hours: (3)
The objectives and content of this Level One Course are derived from the School of
Nursing’s philosophy and conceptual framework and facilitate achievement of the School’s
program objectives, as well as the essentials of Baccalaureate Education (AACN). Additionally,
the major topics and skills covered in this course are common to most foundational
and professional texts. Current research and advancement in nursing theory and clinical
practice also determine course content.
Note(s): RN to BSN course.
Detailed Description of Content of the Course
Focuses upon the foundational skills necessary for successful community based nursing
practice, therapeutic nursing practice techniques, and the development and knowledge
for mental health nursing care.
1. Introduction to concepts for community based nursing practice
a. Radford University School of Nursing conceptual framework
b. Use of professional literature, including electronic resources
c. Use of APA format for professional writing
d. Community-based using practice in today's health care delivery system
2. Strategies for implementing nursing care
a. Therapeutic relationships and communication
b. Communication and collaboration with community agencies
c. Nursing process, including community assessment tools
d. Teaching/learning theory
e. Small group dynamics
f. Family theory and intervention
3. Selected concepts relevant to nursing practice
a. Ethical issues
b. Legal Issues
c. Culture and values
d. Health Belief Model, wellness, and national goals
e. Loss, death, and grief
f. Abuse and exploitation of child, elderly and incapacitated persons
g. Bioterrorism
h. Rules and Regulations for Nursing in Virginia
4. Selected mental health interventions
a. Working with clients who are suicidal or violent
b. Cognitive-behavioral approaches for anxiety and depression
c. Stress management
d. Assertiveness training
Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
The following teaching strategies may include:
• Lecture, discussion, multimedia, group work, written projects, and student presentations.
Goals and Objectives of the Course
Upon successful completion of the course, the student will be able to:
1. Discuss the Radford University School of Nursing mission, philosophy, and goals.
2. Apply the nursing process to community-based situations in student’s professional
practice.
3. Analyze selected documents that reflect the direction of professional practice.
4. Critique and utilize electronic resources.
5. Apply ethical decision-making process to clinical practice.
6. Utilize effective communication skills in collaboration with other professionals,
written documents, and oral presentations.
7. Discuss the importance of collaboration with clients and other health care professionals
to provide culturally sensitive nursing care across the lifespan.
8. Utilize principles of teaching/learning theory and small group dynamics in conducting
a community-based teaching project.
9. Identify policy, legal, and legislative issues which impact the practice of nursing
and the health care of clients.
10. Apply selected, evidence-based mental health interventions.
11. Demonstrate independence, accountability, and beginning leadership skills in course
projects.
Assessment Measures
May include:
• Exams; Quizzes
• Paper
• Project, Individual or Group
• Care Plan
• Oral Presentations
• Class Participation
• Laboratory Activities
The course grade is determined by an evaluation of the extent to which the student
meets the stated course objectives. Students must have a minimum of 80% (“C”) in theory,
measured through testing. Other written or class participation work will be included
in the final grade after the minimum 80% (C”) has been attained through testing.
Final Grades are a combination of at least 80% (“C”) on both theory and clinical/lab
components. Clinical/lab performance must be satisfactory to pass the course.
Other Course Information
Honor Code: By accepting admission to Radford University, a student makes a commitment
to understand, support, and abide by the University Honor Code without compromise
or exception. Violations of academic integrity will not be tolerated. This class will
be conducted in strict observation of the Honor Code. Refer to your Student Handbook
for details.
Students with Disabilities: If you are seeking classroom accommodations under the
Americans With Disabilities Act, you are required to register with the Center for Accessibility Services (CAS). The CAS is located in Suites 301-327, Russell Hall. Call the CAS at 540-831-6350.
To receive academic accommodations for this class, please obtain the proper CAS forms
and meet with the instructor no later than the second week of the semester.
Attendance: For attendance and other course-related requirements, see School of Nursing
Undergraduate Student hand book and Course Description.
Review and Approval
April 2006 Undergraduate Curriculum Marcella Griggs, Director
February 2011, Kim Carter, Director