Foundations of Nursing Practice

Understanding Nursing Role and Responsibilities:

• Explain the historical development of nursing and the evolution of the nursing profession.
• Identify the roles and responsibilities of nurses in promoting health, preventing illness, and supporting patient well-being.

Ethical and Professional Standards:

• Discuss ethical principles and professional standards that guide nursing practice.
• Apply ethical decision-making frameworks to resolve ethical dilemmas in healthcare settings.

Anatomy and Physiology:

• Describe the structure and function of major body systems relevant to nursing practice.
• Explain how knowledge of anatomy and physiology informs nursing care and patient assessment.

Principles of Surgical Nursing

Surgical Procedures and Techniques:

• Outline common surgical procedures, including indications, techniques, and postoperative care requirements.
• Demonstrate knowledge of surgical instruments, equipment, and their uses in different surgical specialties.

Sterile Techniques and Infection Control:

• Implement sterile techniques to maintain aseptic conditions in the operating room environment.
• Discuss strategies for preventing surgical site infections and other healthcare-associated infections.

Patient Preparation and Care:

• Prepare patients physically and psychologically for surgery, ensuring informed consent and optimal readiness.
• Manage perioperative care to support patient safety, comfort, and recovery.

Patient Care in Surgical Settings

Preoperative Assessment and Planning:

• Conduct comprehensive preoperative assessments to identify patient needs, risks, and preferences.
• Develop individualized care plans based on assessment findings and surgical requirements.

Intraoperative Support and Monitoring:

• Assist surgeons during procedures by anticipating needs, handling instruments, and maintaining a sterile field.
• Monitor patient status closely, including vital signs, anesthesia management, and responses to surgical interventions.

Postoperative Management and Follow-up:

• Manage immediate postoperative care, addressing pain management, wound care, and complications.
• Educate patients and families on postoperative recovery, discharge instructions, and potential signs of complications.

Pharmacology and Medication Management

Principles of Pharmacology:

• Explain pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of medications commonly used in surgical settings.
• Discuss drug classifications, actions, adverse effects, and interactions relevant to nursing practice.

Medication Administration:

• Safely administer medications via different routes, ensuring accuracy in dosage calculations and documentation.
• Educate patients on medication use, potential side effects, and adherence to prescribed regimens.

Professional Practice in Nursing

Legal and Ethical Issues:

• Analyze legal responsibilities and scope of practice for nurses, adhering to regulatory guidelines and professional standards.
• Address ethical dilemmas in healthcare through application of ethical theories and principles.

Communication and Collaboration:

• Demonstrate effective communication skills with patients, families, and healthcare team members.
• Collaborate interprofessionally to ensure coordinated patient care and positive outcomes.

Professional Development:

• Engage in reflective practice to enhance personal and professional growth, incorporating feedback and self-assessment.
• Pursue continuing education opportunities to stay current with advancements in nursing practice and healthcare technologies.