NURS 201: Introduction to Nursing Care in Acute Care Settings

Program
Credits 4 Lab Hrs per Wk 0 Lecture Hrs per Wk 4
Lec/Lab Hrs per Wk
0
This course introduces students to the principles and practices of nursing care in acute medical settings, with a focus on developing foundational skills for safe, entry-level generalist nursing practice. Students will learn to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate patient-centered care while prioritizing safety, critical thinking, and effective communication. Core content includes infection prevention, vital signs, mobility, hygiene, basic pharmacology, documentation, and collaboration within the interprofessional healthcare team. The course provides an overview of various areas of acute care nursing, including but not limited to medical-surgical (med-surg), orthopedics, intensive care (ICU), emergency department (ED), and outpatient services. Through lecture, laboratory, and clinical practicum, students will gain exposure to the types of nursing roles that reflect the scope of care offered in local healthcare communities. Emphasis is placed on preparing students to function competently and compassionately within diverse acute care environments. Prerequisites: NURS 101, NURS 101 C, NURS101D, NURS 102, NURS 102 C, NURS 102 D, NURS 103, NURS 103C, NURS 103D
Prerequisites
NURS103, 103C