Post Graduate Certification in Gerontology Nursing ( PGCGN )

 

❖ Developmental Stages and Transitions

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Identify expected physical, cognitive, and psychosocial stages of development

2. Identify expected body image changes associated with client developmental age (e.g., aging, pregnancy)

3. Identify family structures and roles of family members (e.g., nuclear, blended, adoptive)

4. Compare client development to expected age/developmental stage and report any deviations

5. Assess the impact of change on the family system (e.g., one-parent family, divorce, ill family member)

6. Recognize cultural and religious influences that may impact family functioning

7. Assist client to cope with life transitions (e.g., attachment to newborn, parenting, puberty, retirement)

8. Modify approaches to care per client developmental stage (use age-appropriate explanations of procedures and treatments)

9. Provide education to client/staff members about expected age-related changes and age-specific growth and development (e.g., developmental stages)

10. Evaluate client’s achievement of expected developmental level (e.g., developmental milestones)

11. Evaluate the impact of expected body image changes on client and family

❖ Aging Process

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess client’s reactions to expected age-related changes (5 hours)

2. Provide care and education for the newborn, infant, and toddler client from birth through 2 years (20 hours)

3. Provide care and education for the preschool, school-age, and adolescent clients ages 3 through 17 years (5 hours)

4. Provide care and education for the adult client ages 18 through 64 years (3 hours)

5. Provide care and education for the adult clients ages 65 years and over (2 hours)

Post Graduate Certification in Wound and Ostomy Care ( PGCWOC )

❖ Mobility/Immobility

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Identify complications of immobility (e.g., skin breakdown, contractures)

2. Assess the client for mobility, gait, strength, and motor skills

3. Perform skin assessment and implement measures to maintain skin integrity and prevent skin breakdown

4. Apply knowledge of nursing procedures and psychomotor skills when providing care to clients with immobility

5. Apply, maintain or remove orthopedic devices

6. Educate the client regarding proper methods used when repositioning an immobilized client

7. Maintain the client’s correct body alignment

8. Maintain/correct the adjustment of the client’s traction device (e.g., external fixation device, halo traction, skeletal traction)

9. Implement measures to promote circulation (e.g., active or passive range of motion, positioning, and mobilization)

10. Evaluate the client’s response to interventions to prevent complications from immobility

11. Monitor wounds for signs and symptoms of infection

12. Monitor and maintain devices and equipment used for drainage (e.g., surgical wound drains, chest tube suction, negative pressure wound therapy)

13. Perform wound care or dressing change

14. Provide ostomy care and education (e.g., tracheal, enteral)

Post Graduate Certification in Women and Child Health ( PGCWCH )

 

❖ Ante/Intra/Postpartum/and Newborn care

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess client’s psychosocial response to pregnancy (e.g., support systems, perception of pregnancy, coping mechanisms)

2. Assess client for symptoms of postpartum complications (e.g., hemorrhage, infection)

3. Recognize cultural differences in childbearing practices

4. Calculate expected delivery date

5. Check fetal heart rate during routine prenatal exams

6. Assist client with performing/learning newborn care (e.g., feeding)

7. Provide prenatal care and education

8. Provide care and education to an antepartum client or a client in labor

9. Provide postpartum care and education

10. Provide discharge instructions (e.g., postpartum and newborn care)

11. Evaluate client’s ability to care for the newborn.

 

❖ Developmental Stages and Transitions

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Identify expected physical, cognitive, and psychosocial stages of development

2. Identify expected body image changes associated with client developmental age (e.g., aging, pregnancy)

3. Identify family structures and roles of family members (e.g., nuclear, blended, adoptive)

4. Compare client development to expected age/developmental stage and report any deviations

5. Assess the impact of change on the family system (e.g., one-parent family, divorce, ill family member)

6. Recognize cultural and religious influences that may impact family functioning

7. Assist client to cope with life transitions (e.g., attachment to newborn, parenting, puberty, retirement)

8. Modify approaches to care per client developmental stage (use age-appropriate explanations of procedures and treatments)

9. Provide education to client/staff members about expected age-related changes and age specific growth and development (e.g., developmental stages)

10. Evaluate client’s achievement of expected developmental level (e.g., developmental milestones)

11. Evaluate the impact of expected body image changes on client and family.

❖ Ante/Intra/Postpartum/and Newborn care

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess client’s psychosocial response to pregnancy (e.g., support systems, perception of pregnancy, coping mechanisms)

2. Assess client for symptoms of postpartum complications (e.g., hemorrhage, infection)

3. Recognize cultural differences in childbearing practices

4. Calculate expected delivery date

5. Check fetal heart rate during routine prenatal exams

6. Assist client with performing/learning newborn care (e.g., feeding)

7. Provide prenatal care and education

8. Provide care and education to an antepartum client or a client in labor

9. Provide postpartum care and education

10. Provide discharge instructions (e.g., postpartum and newborn care)

11. Evaluate client’s ability to care for the newborn

Post Graduate Certification in Patient Safety ( PGCPS )

 

❖ Accident/error/Injury prevention

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to

1. Assess client for allergies and intervene as needed (e.g., food, latex, environmental allergies)

2. Determine client/staff member knowledge of safety procedures

3. Identify factors that influence accident/injury prevention (e.g., age, developmental stage, lifestyle, mental status)

4. Identify deficits that may impede client safety (e.g., visual, hearing, sensory/perceptual)

5. Identify and verify prescriptions for treatments that may contribute to an accident or injury (does not include medication)

6. Identify and facilitate the correct use of infant and child car seats

7. Provide client with appropriate method to signal staff members

8. Protect client from injury (e.g., falls, electrical hazards)

9. Review necessary modifications with a client to reduce stress on a specific muscle or skeletal group (e.g., frequent changing of position, routine stretching of the shoulders, neck, arms, hands, fingers)

10. Implement seizure precautions for at-risk clients

11. Make appropriate room assignments for cognitively impaired clients

12. Ensure proper identification of client when providing care

13. Verify appropriateness and accuracy of a treatment order

 

 

❖ Emergency Response Plan

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to

1. Determine which client(s) to recommend for discharge in a disaster situation

2. Identify nursing roles in disaster planning

3. Use clinical decision-making/critical thinking for emergency response plan

4. Participate in emergency response plans (e.g., internal/external disaster, bomb threat, community planning)

5. Participate in disaster planning activities/drills

 

 

❖ Ergonomic Principles

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to

1. Assess client ability to balance, transfer and use assistive devices before planning care (e.g., crutches, walker)

2. Provide instruction and information to the client about body positions that eliminate the potential for repetitive stress injuries

3. Use ergonomic principles when providing care (e.g., safe client handling, proper lifting)

 

❖ Handling Hazardous and Infectious Materials

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Identify biohazardous, flammable, and infectious materials

2. Follow procedures for handling biohazardous and hazardous materials

3. Demonstrate safe handling techniques to staff and client

4. Ensure safe implementation of internal radiation therapy

 

❖ Home safety

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess need for client home modifications (e.g., lighting, handrails, kitchen safety)

2. Apply knowledge of client pathophysiology to home safety interventions

3. Educate client on safety issues

4. Encourage the client to use protective equipment when using devices that can cause injury

5. Evaluate client care environment for fire/environmental hazard

 

❖ Reporting of Incident/Event/Irregular Occurrences/Variance

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Identify need/situation where reporting of incident/event/irregular occurrence/variance is appropriate

2. Acknowledge and document practice errors and near misses (e.g., incident report for medication error)

3. Evaluate response to error/event/occurrence

4. Report unsafe practice of health care personnel and intervene as appropriate (e.g., substance abuse, improper care, staffing practices)

 

❖ Safe Use of Equipment

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to

1. Inspect equipment for safety hazards (e.g., frayed electrical cords, loose/missing parts)

2. Teach client about the safe use of equipment needed for health care

3. Facilitate appropriate and safe use of equipment

4. Remove malfunctioning equipment from the client care area and report the problem to appropriate personnel

 

❖ Security Plan

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to

1. Use clinical decision making/critical thinking in situations related to security planning

2. Apply principles of triage and evacuation procedures/protocols

3. Follow security plan and procedures (e.g., newborn nursery security, violence, controlled access)

 

❖ Use of Restraints/Safety Devices

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess appropriateness of the type of restraint/safety device used

2. Follow requirements for the use of restraints

3. Monitor/evaluate client response to restraints/safety device

Post Graduate Certificate in Public Health Services ( PGCPHS )

 

❖ Case Management

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Explore resources available to assist the client with achieving or maintaining independence

2. Assess the client’s need for materials and equipment (e.g., oxygen, suction machine, wound care supplies)

3. Practice and advocate for cost-effective care

4. Plan individualized care for a client based on need (e.g., client diagnosis, self-care ability, prescribed treatments)

5. Provide client with information on discharge procedures to home or community setting

6. Initiate, evaluate, and update client plan of care

 

❖ Information Technology

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Receive and transcribe health care provider orders

2. Apply knowledge of facility regulations when accessing client records

3. Access data for the client through online databases and journals

4. Enter computer documentation accurately, completely, and promptly

5. Utilize resources to enhance client care (e.g., evidenced-based research, information technology, policies, and procedures)

 

❖ Referrals

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to

1. Assess the need to refer clients for assistance with actual or potential problems (e.g., physical therapy, speech therapy)

2. Assess the need for referrals and obtain necessary orders

3. Identify community resources for the client (e.g., respite care, social services, shelters) Identify which documents to include when referring a client (e.g., medical record, referral form)

Post Graduate Certificate in Medical-Surgical Nursing ( PGCMSN )

 

❖ Pathophysiology

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Identify pathophysiology related to an acute or chronic condition

2. Understand general principles of pathophysiology (e.g., injury and repair, immunity, cellular structure)

❖ Potential for Alterations in Body systems

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Identify client potential for aspiration (e.g., feeding tube, sedation, swallowing difficulties)

2. Identify client potential for skin breakdown (e.g., immobility, nutritional status, incontinence)

3. Identify clients with increased risk for insufficient vascular perfusion (e.g., immobilized limb, post-surgery, diabetes)

4. Educate client on methods to prevent complications associated with activity level/diagnosed illness/disease (e.g., contractures, foot care for the client with diabetes mellitus)

5. Compare current client data to baseline client data (e.g., symptoms of illness/disease)

6. Monitor client output for changes from baseline (e.g., nasogastric tube, emesis, stool, urine)

❖ Therapeutic Procedures

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess client response to recovery from local, regional, or general anesthesia

2. Apply knowledge of related nursing procedures and psychomotor skills when caring for clients undergoing therapeutic procedures

3. Educate the client about treatments and procedures

4. Educate the client about home management of care

5. Use precautions to prevent further injury when moving a client with a musculoskeletal condition (e.g., log-rolling, abduction pillow)

6. Monitor the client before and after a procedure/surgery (e.g., cast extremity)

7. Monitor effective functioning of therapeutic devices (e.g., chest tube, drainage tubes, wound drainage devices, continuous bladder irrigation)

8. Provide preoperative or postoperative education

9. Provide preoperative care

❖ Laboratory Values

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Identify laboratory values for ABGs (pH, PO2, PCO2, SaO2, HCO3), BUN, cholesterol (total), creatinine, glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin (HgbA1C), hematocrit, hemoglobin, INR, platelets, potassium, PT, PTT & APTT, sodium, WBC

2. Compare client laboratory values to average laboratory values

3. Educate the client about the purpose and procedure of prescribed laboratory tests

4. Obtain blood specimens (e.g., venipuncture, venous access device, central line)

5. Obtain specimens other than blood for diagnostic testing (e.g., wound, stool, urine)

6. Monitor client laboratory values (e.g., glucose testing results for the client with diabetes)

7. Notify primary health care provider about laboratory test results

❖ Alterations in Body Systems

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess adaptation of a client to health alteration, illness, and disease

2. Assess tube drainage during the time the client has an alteration in body systems (e.g., amount, color)

3. Assess client for signs and symptoms of adverse effects of radiation therapy

4. Identify signs of potential prenatal complications

5. Apply knowledge of nursing procedures, pathophysiology, and psychomotor skills when caring for a client with an alteration in body systems

6. Educate the client about managing health problems (e.g., chronic illness)

7. Implement and monitor phototherapy

8. Implement interventions to address side/adverse effects of radiation therapy (e.g., dietary modifications, avoid sunlight)

9. Maintain the optimal temperature of the client

10. Perform and manage the care of clients receiving peritoneal dialysis

11. Perform suctioning

12. Promote client progress toward recovery from an alteration in body systems

13. Provide care to a client who has experienced a seizure

14. Provide pulmonary hygiene (e.g., chest physiotherapy, incentive spirometry)

15. Provide care for a client experiencing complications of pregnancy/labor and delivery (e.g., eclampsia, precipitous labor, hemorrhage)

16. Provide care for a client experiencing increased intracranial pressure

17. Provide postoperative care

18. Remove sutures or staples

19. Evaluate client response to surgery

20. Evaluate achievement of client treatment goals

21. Evaluate client response to treatment for an infectious disease (e.g., acquired immune deficiency syndrome [AIDS], tuberculosis [TB])

22. Evaluate and monitor client response to radiation therapy

Post Graduate Certification in Mental Health ( PGCMH )

 

❖ Abuse/Neglect

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess client for abuse or neglect and intervene as appropriate

2. Identify risk factors for domestic, child, elder abuse/neglect, and sexual abuse

3. Plan interventions for victims/suspected victims of abuse

4. Counsel victims/suspected victims of abuse and their families on coping strategies

5. Provide a safe environment for the abused/neglected client

6. Evaluate client response to interventions

 

❖ Behavioral Interventions

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess client’s appearance, mood, and psychomotor behavior and identify/respond to inappropriate/abnormal behavior

2. Assist client with achieving and maintaining self-control of behavior (e.g., behavior modification)

3. Assist client to develop and use strategies to decrease anxiety

4. Orient the client to reality

5. Participate in group sessions (e.g., support groups)

6. Incorporate behavioral management techniques when caring for a client

7. Evaluate client’s response to the treatment plan

 

❖ Coping Mechanisms

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess client’s support systems and available resources

2. Assess client’s ability to adapt to temporary/permanent role changes

3. Assess client’s reaction to a diagnosis of acute or chronic mental illness (e.g., rationalization, hopefulness, anger)

4. Assess client’s ability to cope with life changes and provide support

5. Identify situations that may necessitate role changes for a client (e.g., a spouse with chronic illness, death of a parent)

6. Provide support to the client with unexpected altered body image (e.g., alopecia, amputation, burns)

7. Evaluate the constructive use of defense mechanisms by a client

8. Evaluate whether the client has successfully adapted to situational role changes (e.g., accept dependency on others)

 

❖ Crisis Intervention

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess the potential for violence and use safety precautions

2. Identify the client in crisis

3. Use crisis intervention techniques to assist the client in coping

4. Apply knowledge of client psychopathology to crisis intervention

5. Guide the client to resources for recovery from a crisis (e.g., social supports)

 

❖ Cultural awareness/Cultural Influences on Health

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess the importance of client culture/ethnicity when planning/providing/evaluating care

2. Recognize cultural issues that may impact the client’s understanding/acceptance of a psychiatric diagnosis

3. Incorporate client cultural practices and beliefs when planning and providing care

4. Respect the cultural background/practices of the client

5. Evaluate and document how client language needs were met

 

❖ End of Life Care

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess client’s ability to cope with end-of-life interventions

2. Identify end-of-life needs of the client (e.g., financial concerns, fear, loss of control, role changes)

3. Recognize the need for and provide psychosocial support to the family/caregiver

4. Assist client in resolution of end-of-life issues

5. Provide end-of-life care and education to clients

 

❖ Family Dynamics

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess barriers/stressors that impact family functioning (e.g., meeting client care needs, divorce)

2. Assess family dynamics to determine a plan of care

3. Assess parental techniques related to discipline

4. Encourage the client’s participation in group/family therapy

5. Assist client to integrate new members into the family structure (e.g., new infant, blended family)

6. Evaluate resources available to assist family functioning

 

❖ Grief and Loss

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Provide care for a client experiencing grief or loss

2. Support the client in anticipatory grieving

3. Inform the client of expected reactions to grief and loss (e.g., denial, fear)

4. Provide the client with resources to adjust to loss/bereavement (e.g., individual counseling, support groups)

5. Evaluate the client’s coping and fears related to grief and loss

 

❖ Mental Health Concepts

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Identify signs and symptoms of impaired cognition (e.g., memory loss, poor hygiene

2. Recognize signs and symptoms of acute and chronic mental illness (e.g., schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder)

3. Recognize client use of defense mechanisms

4. Assess client adherence to a treatment plan

5. Assess client for alterations in mood, judgment, cognition, and reasoning

6. Apply knowledge of client psychopathology to mental health concepts applied in individual/ group/family therapy

7. Provide care and education for acute and chronic psychosocial health issues (e.g., addictions/ dependencies, depression, dementia, eating disorders)

8. Evaluate client’s ability to adhere to a treatment plan

9. Evaluate client’s abnormal response to the aging process (e.g., depression)

 

❖ Religious and spiritual influence on health

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Identify the emotional problems of client or client needs that are related to religious/spiritual beliefs (e.g., spiritual distress, a conflict between recommended treatment and beliefs)

2. Assess psychosocial, spiritual, and occupational factors affecting care and plan interventions

3. Assess and plan interventions that meet the client’s emotional and spiritual needs

4. Evaluate whether the client’s religious/spiritual needs are met

 

❖ Sensory/perceptual alterations

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Identify time, place, and stimuli surrounding the appearance of symptoms

2. Assist client to develop strategies for dealing with sensory and thought disturbances

3. Provide care for a client experiencing visual, auditory, and cognitive distortions

4. Provide care in a nonthreatening and nonjudgmental manner

5. Provide reality-based diversions

 

❖ Stress Management

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Recognize nonverbal cues to physical and psychological stressors

2. Assess stressors, including environmental, that affect client care (e.g., noise, fear, uncertainty, change, lack of knowledge)

3. Implement measures to reduce environmental stressors (e.g., noise, temperature)

4. Provide information to the client on stress management techniques (e.g., relaxation techniques, exercise, meditation)

5. Evaluate the client’s use of stress management techniques

 

❖ Substance Use and other disorders and dependencies

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to

1. Assess client’s reactions to the diagnosis/treatment of the substance-related disorder

2. Assess client for substance abuse, dependency, withdrawal, or toxicities and intervene as appropriate

3. Plan and provide care to clients experiencing substance-related withdrawal or toxicity (e.g., nicotine, opioid, sedative)

4. Educate client on substance use diagnosis and treatment plan

5. Provide care and support for a client with non-substance-related dependencies (e.g., gambling, sexual addiction)

6. Provide symptom management for clients experiencing withdrawal or toxicity

7. Encourage the client to participate in support groups

8. Evaluate client’s response to a treatment plan and revise as needed

 

❖ Support systems

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assist family to plan care for the client with impaired cognition (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease)

2. Encourage client’s involvement in the health care decision-making process

3. Evaluate client’s feelings about the diagnosis/treatment plan

 

❖ Therapeutic Communication

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess verbal and nonverbal client communication needs

2. Respect the client’s values and beliefs

3. Allow time to communicate with the client

4. Use therapeutic communication techniques

5. Encourage the client to verbalize feelings (e.g., fear, discomfort)

6. Evaluate the effectiveness of communications with the client

 

❖ Therapeutic Environment

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Identify external factors that may interfere with client recovery (e.g., stressors, family dynamics)

2. Make client room assignments that support the therapeutic milieu

3. Promote a therapeutic environment 

Post Graduate Certification in Legal and Ethical Aspects of Patient Care ( PGCLEAPC )

 

❖ Advance Directives

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess client and staff member knowledge of advance directives (e.g., living will, health care agent/proxy, Power of Attorney for Health Care)

2. Integrate advanced directives into client plan of care

3. Provide client with information about advance directives, self-care determination, life planning

❖ Advocacy

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Discuss identified treatment options with the client and respect their decisions

2. Provide information on advocacy to staff members

3. Act in the role of client advocate

4. Utilize advocacy resources appropriately (e.g., social worker, the chain of command, interpreter)

❖ Client Rights

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to

1. Recognize the client’s right to refuse treatment/procedures

2. Discuss treatment options/decisions with the client

3. Provide education to clients and staff about client rights and responsibilities

4. Evaluate client/staff understanding of client rights

5. Advocate for client rights and needs

❖ Ethical Practice

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to

1. Recognize ethical dilemmas and take appropriate action

2. Inform client/staff members of ethical issues affecting client care

3. Practice in a manner consistent with a code of ethics for nurses

4. Evaluate outcomes of interventions to promote ethical practice

 

❖ Informed consent

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Identify an appropriate person to provide informed consent for the client

2. Provide written materials in the client’s spoken language, when possible

3. Describe components of informed consent

4. Participate in obtaining informed consent

5. Verify the client receives appropriate education and consents for care and procedures

 

❖ Legal rights and Responsibilities

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to

1. Identify legal issues affecting the client (e.g., refusing treatment)

2. Identify and manage the client’s valuables according to facility/agency policy

3. Recognize limitations of self and others and utilize resources

4. The review facility policy and legal considerations before agreeing to serve as an interpreter for staff or primary health care provider

5. Educate client/staff on legal issues

6. Report client conditions as required by law (e.g., abuse/neglect, communicable disease)

7. Provide care within the legal scope of practice

Post Graduate Certification in Infection Prevention ( PGCIP )

 

❖ Standard precautions/Transmission based Precautions/Surgical Asepsis

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to

1. Assess client care area for sources of infection

2. Understand communicable diseases and the modes of organism transmission (e.g., airborne, droplet, contact)

3. Apply principles of infection control (e.g., hand hygiene, aseptic technique, isolation, sterile technique, universal/standard precautions)

4. Follow correct policy and procedures when reporting a client with a communicable disease

5. Educate client and staff regarding infection control measures

6. Utilize appropriate precautions for immunocompromised clients

7. Use the appropriate technique to set up a sterile field/maintain asepsis

8. Evaluate infection control precautions implemented by staff members

9. Evaluate whether the aseptic technique performed correctly

10. Identify signs, symptoms, and incubation periods of infectious diseases

11. Provide care to a client with an infectious disease  

Post Graduate Certification in Healthcare Leadership and Management ( PGCHLM )

 

❖ Assignment, delegation, and Supervision

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Identify tasks for assignment or delegation based on client needs

2. Delegate and assign appropriate tasks based on the client’s needs to personnel with competency to perform the task

3. Assign and supervise the care of clients provided by others (e.g., LPN/VN, assistive personnel, other RNs)

4. Communicate tasks to be completed and report client concerns immediately

5. Organize workload to manage time effectively

6. Utilize the rights of delegation (e.g., right task, right circumstances, right person, proper direction/communication, right supervision/evaluation)

7. Evaluate delegated tasks to ensure correct completion of an activity

8. Evaluate the ability of staff members to perform assigned tasks considering personnel’s allowable tasks/duties, competency, and ability to use sound judgment and decision-making

9. Evaluate the effectiveness of staff members’ time management skills

❖ Collaboration with Interdisciplinary Team

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Identify the need for interdisciplinary conferences

2. Identify significant information to report to other disciplines (e.g., health care provider, pharmacist, social worker, respiratory therapist)

3. A review plan of care to ensure continuity across disciplines

4. Collaborate with interprofessional team members when providing client care

5. Serve as a resource person to other staff

❖ Concepts of management

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Identify roles/responsibilities of health care team members

2. Plan overall strategies to address client problems

3. Act as liaison between client and others (e.g., coordinate or manage care)

4. Manage conflict among clients and health care staff

5. Evaluate management outcomes

❖ Confidentiality/Information Security

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess staff member and client understanding of confidentiality requirements

2. Maintain client confidentiality and privacy

3. Intervene appropriately when staff members have breached confidentiality

❖ Continuity of Care

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Provide and receive a handoff of care (report) on assigned clients

2. Use documents to record and communicate client information (e.g., medical record, referral/transfer form) 3. Use approved abbreviations and standard terminology when documenting care

4. Perform procedures necessary to admit safely, transfer and discharge a client

5. Follow up on unresolved issues regarding client care (e.g., laboratory results, client requests)

❖ Performance Improvement

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Define performance improvement/quality assurance activities

2. Participate in performance improvement projects and quality improvement processes

3. Report identified client care issues/problems to appropriate personnel

4. Utilize research and other references for performance improvement actions

5. Evaluate the impact of performance improvement measures on client care and resource Utilization 

Post Graduate Certificate in Critical Care Nursing ( PGCCCN )

 

❖ Unexpected response to therapies

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess the client for unexpected adverse response to therapy (e.g., increased intracranial pressure, hemorrhage)

2. Recognize signs and symptoms of client complications and intervene

3. Promote the recovery of the client from unexpected response to therapy (e.g., urinary tract infection)

❖ Medical Emergencies

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Apply knowledge of pathophysiology when caring for a client experiencing a medical emergency

2. Apply knowledge of nursing procedures and psychomotor skills when caring for a client experiencing a medical emergency

3. Explain emergency interventions to a client

4. Notify primary health care provider about unexpected client response/emergency

5. Perform emergency care procedures

6. Provide emergency care for wound disruption (e.g., dehiscence)

7. Evaluate and document the client’s response to emergency interventions (e.g., restoring breathing, pulse).

❖ Establishing Priorities

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Apply knowledge of pathophysiology when establishing priorities for interventions with multiple clients

2. Prioritize the delivery of client care

3. Evaluate plan of care for multiple clients and revise plan of care as needed

❖ Potential complications of Diagnostic tests/Treatment/Procedures

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess client for an abnormal response following a diagnostic test/procedure (e.g., dysrhythmia following cardiac catheterization)

2. Apply knowledge of nursing procedures and psychomotor skills when caring for a client with the potential for complications

3. Monitor the client for signs of bleeding

4. Position the client to prevent complications following tests/treatments/procedures (e.g., elevate the head of the bed, immobilize extremity)

5. Insert, maintain, or remove a nasal/oral gastrointestinal tube

6. Insert, maintain, or remove a urinary catheter

7. Insert, maintain, or remove a peripheral intravenous line

8. Maintain tube patency (e.g., nasogastric tube for decompression, chest tubes)

9. Maintain percutaneous feeding tube

10. Apply and maintain devices used to promote venous return (e.g., anti-embolic stockings, sequential compression devices)

11. Use precautions to prevent injury and complications associated with a procedure or diagnosis

12. Provide care for a client undergoing electroconvulsive therapy (e.g., monitor airway, assess for side effects, teach the client about the procedure)

13. Intervene to manage potential circulatory complications (e.g., hemorrhage, embolus, shock)

14. Intervene to prevent aspiration (e.g., check nasogastric tube placement)

15. Intervene to prevent potential neurological complications (e.g., foot drop, numbness, tingling)

16. Evaluate responses to procedures and treatments

❖ Potential for Complications from Surgical Procedures and Health Alterations

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Apply knowledge of pathophysiology to monitoring for complications (e.g., recognize signs of thrombocytopenia)

2. Evaluate the client’s response to postoperative interventions to prevent complications (e.g., prevent aspiration, promote venous return, promote mobility)

3. Manage client during a procedure with moderate sedation

4. Manage client following a procedure with moderate sedation

5. Monitor and care for clients on a ventilator 

Post Graduate Certificate in Cardiovascular Care ( PGCCC )

 

❖Hemodynamics

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess client for decreased cardiac output (e.g., diminished peripheral pulses, hypotension)

2. Identify cardiac rhythm strip abnormalities (e.g., sinus bradycardia, premature ventricular contractions, ventricular tachycardia, atrial fibrillation, ventricular fibrillation)
3. Manage the care of a client with a pacing device

4. Manage the care of a client on telemetry

5. Intervene to improve cardiovascular client status (e.g., initiate a protocol to manage cardiac arrhythmias, monitor pacemaker functions)

6. Apply knowledge of pathophysiology to interventions in response to abnormal client hemodynamics

7. Provide client with strategies to manage decreased cardiac output (e.g., frequent rest periods, limited activities)

8. Monitor and maintain arterial lines

9. Manage the care of a client with alteration in hemodynamics, tissue perfusion, and hemostasis

10. Evaluate invasive monitoring data (e.g., pulmonary artery pressure, intracranial pressure

11. Manage the care of a client receiving hemodialysis or continuous renal replacement therapy

❖Central venous access devices

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Educate the client on the reason for and care of a venous access device

2. Access central venous access devices

3. Provide care for a client with a central venous access device

❖Blood and Blood Products

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Identify the client according to facility/agency policy before administration of red blood cells/blood products (e.g., prescription for administration, correct type, correct client, cross-matching complete, consent obtained)

2. Check the client for appropriate venous access for red blood cell/blood product administration (e.g., correct gauge needle, the integrity of access site)

3. Document necessary information on the administration of red blood cells/blood products

4. Administer blood products and evaluate client response

❖Total Parenteral Nutrition

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Identify side effects/adverse events related to TPN and intervene as appropriate (e.g., hyperglycemia, fluid imbalance, infection)

2. Educate client on the need for and use of TPN

3. Apply knowledge of nursing procedures and psychomotor skills when caring for a client receiving TPN

4. Apply knowledge of client pathophysiology and mathematics to TPN interventions

5. Administer parenteral nutrition and evaluate client response

6. Assist with invasive procedures (e.g., central line, thoracentesis, bronchoscopy)

❖Fluid and Electrolyte Imbalance

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Identify signs and symptoms of client fluid and electrolyte imbalance

2. Apply knowledge of pathophysiology when caring for the client with fluid and electrolyte Imbalances

3. Manage the care of the client with a fluid and electrolyte imbalance

4. Evaluate the client’s response to interventions to correct fluid or electrolyte imbalance

Post Graduate Certificate in Basic Pharmacology and Medication Management ( PGCBPMM )

 

❖ Adverse Effects/Contraindications/Side Effects/Interactions

Learning Objectives:

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Identify contraindications to the administration of a medication to the client

2. Identify actual and potential incompatibilities of prescribed client medications

3. Identify symptoms/evidence of an allergic reaction to medications

4. Assess the client for actual or potential side effects and adverse effects of medications (e.g., prescribed, over-the-counter, herbal supplements, preexisting condition)

5. Provide information to the client on common side effects/adverse effects/potential interactions of medications and inform the client when to notify the primary health care provider

6. Notify the primary health care provider of side effects, adverse effects, and contraindications of medications and parenteral therapy

7. Document side effects and adverse effects of medications and parenteral therapy

8. Monitor for anticipated interactions among the client’s prescribed medications and fluids (e.g., oral, topical, subcutaneous, IM, IV)

9. Evaluate and document the client’s response to actions taken to counteract side effects and adverse effects of medications and parenteral therapy

❖ Pharmacological Pain Management

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess client need for administration of a PRN pain medication (e.g., oral, topical, subcutaneous, IM, IV)

2. Administer and document pharmacological pain management appropriate for client age and diagnoses (e.g., pregnancy, children, older adults)

3. Administer medications for pain management

4. Handle and administer controlled substances within regulatory guidelines

5. Evaluate and document the client’s use and response to pain medications

❖ Parenteral Intravenous therapies

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Identify appropriate veinous access for various therapies

2. Educate clients on the need for intermittent parenteral fluid therapy

3. Apply knowledge and concepts of nursing procedures/psychomotor skills when caring for a client receiving intravenous and parenteral therapy

4. Prepare the client for intravenous catheter insertion

5. Monitor the use of an infusion pump (e.g., IV, patient-controlled analgesia device)

6. Monitor intravenous infusion and maintain the site

7. Evaluate the client’s response to intermittent parenteral fluid therapy

❖ Medication administration

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Educate the client about medications

2. Educate client on medication self-administration procedures

3. Prepare and administer medications using rights of medication administration

4. Review pertinent data before medication administration (e.g., contraindications, lab results, allergies, potential interactions)

5. Mix medications from two vials when necessary

6. Administer and document medications given by common routes (e.g., oral, topical)

7. Administer and document medications given by parenteral routes (e.g., intravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneous)

8. Participate in the medication reconciliation process

9. Titrate the dosage of medication based on assessment and ordered parameters

10. Dispose of unused medications according to facility/agency policy

11. Handle and maintain medication in a safe and controlled environment

12. Evaluate appropriateness and accuracy of medication order for a client

13. Handle and administer high-risk medications

❖ Dosage Calculation

Learning Objectives:

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Perform calculations needed for medication administration

2. Use clinical decision making/critical thinking when calculating dosages

3. Apply knowledge and concepts of mathematics when caring for a client receiving intravenous and parenteral therapy

❖ Expected Actions/Outcomes

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Obtain information on a client’s prescribed medications (e.g., review formulary, consult pharmacist)

2. Use clinical decision making/critical thinking when addressing expected effects/outcomes of medications (e.g., oral, intradermal, subcutaneous, IM, topical)

3. Evaluate the client’s use of medications over time (e.g., prescription, over-the counter, home remedies)

4. Evaluate client response to medication

❖ Non-Pharmacological Comfort Interventions

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess the client’s need for alternative and complementary therapy

2. Assess the client’s need for palliative care/symptom management or non-curative treatments

3. Assess client for pain and intervene as appropriate

4. Recognize differences in client perception and response to pain

5. Apply knowledge of pathophysiology to non-pharmacological comfort/palliative care interventions

6. Incorporate alternative/complementary therapies into client plan of care (e.g., music therapy, relaxation therapy)

7. Recognize complementary therapies and identify potential contraindications (e.g., aromatherapy, acupressure, supplements)

8. Counsel client regarding palliative/symptom management, non-curative treatments, or care

9. Respect client palliative care/symptom management or non-curative treatment choices

10. Assist client in receiving appropriate end-of-life physical symptom management

11. Plan measures to provide comfort interventions to clients with anticipated or actual impaired comfort

12. Provide non-pharmacological comfort measures

13. Evaluate the client’s response to non-pharmacological interventions (e.g., pain rating scale, verbal reports)

14. Evaluate the outcomes of alternative and complementary therapy practices

15. Evaluate the outcome of palliative care/symptom management or non-curative treatments

Post Graduate Certification in Advanced Patient Care Management ( PGCAPCM )

 

❖ Assistive Devices

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess the client for actual/potential difficulty with communication and speech/vision/hearing problems

2. Assess the client’s use of assistive devices (e.g., prosthetic limbs, hearing aid)

3. Assist client to compensate for a physical or sensory impairment (e.g., assistive devices,positioning, compensatory techniques)

4. Manage the client who uses assistive devices or prostheses (e.g., eating utensils,telecommunication devices, dentures)

5. Evaluate the correct use of assistive devices by the client

❖ Elimination

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess and manage a client with an alteration in elimination

2. Perform irrigations (e.g., of the bladder, ear, eye)

3. Provide skincare to incontinent clients (e.g., wash frequently, barrier creams/ointments)

4. Use alternative methods to promote voiding

5. Evaluate whether the client’s ability to eliminate is restored/maintained

❖ Nutrition and Oral Hydration

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess client ability to eat (e.g., chew, swallow)

2. Assess client for actual/potential specific food and medication interactions

3. Consider client choices regarding meeting nutritional requirements and maintaining dietary restrictions, including mention of specific food items

4. Monitor client hydration status (e.g., edema, signs and symptoms of dehydration)

5. Initiate calorie counts for clients6. Apply knowledge of mathematics to client nutrition (e.g., body mass index)

7. Monitor the client’s nutritional status

8. Promote the client’s independence in eating

9. Provide/maintain special diets based on the client diagnosis/nutritional needs and cultural considerations (e.g., low sodium, high protein, calorie restrictions)

10. Provide nutritional supplements as needed (e.g., high protein drinks)

11. Provide client nutrition through tube feedings

12. Evaluate side effects of client tube feedings and intervene as needed (e.g., diarrhea, dehydration)

13. Evaluate client intake and output and intervene as needed

14. Evaluate the impact of disease/illness on the nutritional status of a client

❖ Personal Hygiene

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess the client for personal hygiene habits/routine

2. Assess and intervene in client performance of activities of daily living

3. Provide information to the client on required adaptations for performing activities of daily living (e.g., shower chair, handrails)

4. Perform post-mortem care

❖ Rest and sleep

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess client sleep/rest pattern and intervene as needed

2. Apply knowledge of client pathophysiology to rest and sleep interventions

3. Schedule client care activities to promote adequate rest

❖ Changes/abnormalities in Vital signs

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Assess and respond to changes and trends in vital client signs

2. Apply knowledge needed to perform related nursing procedures and psychomotor skills when assessing vital signs

3. Apply knowledge of client pathophysiology when measuring vital signs

❖ Diagnostic Tests

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Apply knowledge of related nursing procedures and psychomotor skills when caring for clients undergoing diagnostic testing

2. Compare client diagnostic findings with pre-test results

3. Perform diagnostic testing (e.g., electrocardiogram, oxygen saturation, glucose monitoring)

4. Perform fetal heart monitoring

5. Monitor results of maternal and fetal diagnostic tests (e.g., non-stress test, amniocentesis, ultrasound)

6. Monitor the results of diagnostic testing and intervene as needed