Enhanced Practice for Internationally Educated Nurses

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Courses - January 2023

Level 1

Course details

College Reading & Writing Skills
COMM1085

Description: This course introduces students to the reading, writing, and critical thinking skills needed for academic and workplace success. Students will analyse a variety of texts and apply the steps of planning, writing, and revising to produce writing that meets the expectations of selected audiences and purposes. The course prepares students for college-level writing tasks, research, and documentation by asking them to produce clear, informed, and purposeful documents relevant to both academic and professional contexts.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Conestoga 101
CON0101

Description: This self-directed course focuses on introducing new students to the supports, services, and opportunities available at Conestoga College. By the end of this course, students will understand the academic expectations of the Conestoga learning environment, as well as the supports available to ensure their academic success. Students will also be able to identify on-campus services that support their health and wellness, and explore ways to get actively involved in the Conestoga community through co-curricular learning opportunities.
  • Hours: 1
  • Credits: 0
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Mental Health First Aid
HEAL1811

Description: Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is the help provided to a person developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. Just as physical first aid is administered to an injured person before medical treatment can be obtained, MHFA is given until appropriate treatment is found or until the crisis is resolved. This course aims to improve mental health literacy, and provide the skills and knowledge to help people better manage potential or developing mental health problems in themselves, a family member, a friend or a colleague. Anyone can benefit from MHFA training. It is open to members of the general public. Families affected by mental health problems, teachers, health service providers, emergency workers, frontline workers who deal with the public, volunteers, human resources professionals, employers and community groups are just a few of the groups who have benefited from MHFA.
  • Hours: 12
  • Credits: 1
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Gentle Persuasive Approaches (GPA)
HEAL1895

Description: GPA Basics is an innovative, 4-module dementia-care curriculum based on a person-centred approach to care. The curriculum is evidence-based, interactive, and practical. The program guides participants to fully understand responsive behaviours, in order to be able to respond effectively and appropriately in a workplace setting. GPA Basics also includes respectful self-protective and gentle redirection techniques for use when catastrophic behaviours do occur.
  • Hours: 8
  • Credits: 1
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Professional Nursing Practice in the Canadian Health Care System
NURS8015

Description: During this course, the student will be introduced to the Canadian health care system and explore the integral role of the Registered Nurse within various contexts. The scope of practice and responsibilities of the Registered Nurse are examined while applying professional standards as defined by various Canadian Professional Nursing Organizations. Health care team functioning will be explored through role knowledge in practice (role of others) and collaborative intraprofessional and interprofessional relationships. Concepts of human relations and therapeutic communication are discussed. Individualized plans of care will be explored through application of the nursing process. Personal, professional and client well being will be explored as students transition into the role of the Canadian Registered Nurse.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Enriched Assessment Skills
NURS8347

Description: The course begins by refreshing nursing knowledge in the basic concepts and skills of interviewing, health history taking and physical examination of the client. Examination techniques and assessment findings will then be discussed in relation to variations in age of clients, and differentiation between normal aging and illness. The significance of history and assessment findings will be illustrated by example illnesses or disease. This course will emphasize the application of assessment skills to a variety of clinical settings and nursing roles. Learning activities will include lecture format, videotapes or films, demonstrations, supervised hands-on practice and role playing. Learners will be required to review anatomy and physiology relevant to the topics of this course.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Clinical Care Lab and Simulation
NURS8357

Description: This course will provide the student with the opportunity to apply theoretical learning to a practice setting. The theoretical basis, associated assessments, and performance of basic nursing skills are the focus of this course. All phases of the nursing process are applied to facilitate the provision of nursing care to clients. Each student will participate in simulated client situations incorporating all skills. Assessment and planning with scenarios during skill practice assist in the development of critical thinking skills.
  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Pharmacology and Pathophysiology I
NURS8702

Description: The student will prepare for safe administration of medications within the Canadian health care system. Principles of medication preparation and administration including drug calculations and related College of Nurses (CNO) standards of practice are studied. General principles of pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, human physiology and pathophysiology are emphasized in relation to the care of clients, and in the understanding of the therapeutic and adverse effects of drugs on the body.
  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Safety in the Workplace
OHS1320

Description: This course focuses on developing awareness and skills for the student to safely manage and conduct him or herself within a variety of employment settings. Through the units of the course, participants will have the opportunity to enhance their understanding and knowledge of general Health and Safety guidelines, including WHMIS, Fire Safety and Workplace Violence. The unit on Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act will instruct the student on the requirements for Accessible Customer Service and Integrated Accessibility Standard Regulations. General information on Safe Driving, Privacy of Information and Hand Washing will be addressed as well. The course also provides participants with critical information regarding their insurance coverage (WSIB or other) while employed. As well as guidelines to follow in the event of an injury. Participants will receive a printable Record of Completion upon successful conclusion of this course, in order to demonstrate awareness of safe working practices to their employers.
  • Hours: 14
  • Credits: 1
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Level 2

Course details

Fundamentals of Communication and Conduct for Canadian Nursing Practice
COMM8290

Description: In this course, the student will explore communication theories and styles as they apply to Registered Nurses in Canada, with an emphasis on professionalism in order to provide safe, competent, compassionate, ethical, and evidence-informed care. Methods of engaging with diverse populations will be explored with an expectation of application of professional standards related to therapeutic communication, documentation, advocacy, and privacy and confidentiality. Students will also have an opportunity to utilize a variety of communication techniques as they interact with Standardized Patients in a simulated client-centred setting.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: COMM1085 AND NURS8015
  • CoRequisites:

Field Placement I (Enhanced Practice for Internationally Educated Nurses)
FPLT8290

Description: Students are supported in the transition to the role of a Canadian Registered Nurse. Learners will demonstrate knowledge, skill and judgment in order to provide professional entry-level competencies for safe, competent, and ethical care in an acute care setting.
  • Hours: 244
  • Credits: 8
  • Pre-Requisites: NURS8015 AND NURS8347 OR NURS8348 AND NURS8357 OR NURS8358 AND NURS8702 OR PHAR8000 AND OHS1320
  • CoRequisites:

Nursing Theory and Research
NURS1510

Description: This course will build upon previous knowledge of nursing theory and strengthen student’s ability to apply nursing theories in a variety of health care contexts. This course will assist students to examine basic principles of research, the needs of the research consumer, and develop skills of critical appraisal and evaluation of health care literature. Students will be introduced to Evidence Informed Decision Making (EIDM), and utilize their research skills within the context of the EIDM model.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Pharmacology and Pathophysiology II
NURS8765

Description: Building on the concepts of Pharmacology and Pathophysiology I, students will explore more in-depth pathophysiology and pharmacotherapeutics of acute and chronic conditions affecting the endocrine, immune, circulatory, respiratory, digestion and metabolism, nervous and cardiac systems. Emphasis is on interrelationships among systems and regulations of physiological functions in maintaining homeostasis.
  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites: NURS8702 OR PHAR8000
  • CoRequisites:

Level 3

Course details

Field Placement II (Enhanced Practice for Internationally Educated Nurses)
FPLT8320

Description: The student is provided with opportunities to build on prior clinical experience and nursing knowledge with an added gerontology focus spanning across rehabilitation, restoration, and chronic/complex continuing care. Continued focus of Canadian Registered Nurse entry-level competencies for safe, competent, professional and ethical care will be evaluated.
  • Hours: 88
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: FPLT8290 OR FPLT8291 AND NURS8765 OR PHAR8010
  • CoRequisites:

Seniors Care in the Canadian Health Care System
NURS8686

Description: Students will gain a greater understanding of the role of the gerontological nurse and the interprofessional team when caring for seniors and their families in the Canadian health care system. Concepts of healthy aging and aging in society will be examined. Influences related to the role of the gerontological nurse will be discussed including individual and family care/relationships, cultural competencies, economic and legal issues, and documentation.
  • Hours: 21
  • Credits: 1
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Professional Practice and Simulation
NURS8845

Description: As supported by regulatory and professional nursing bodies, the role of the Canadian Registered Nurse will be explored through simulation, application scenarios, and case-based learning. Students will refine nursing skills and complete comprehensive assessments related to medical-surgical, complex, and gerontological patient populations. Emphasis is placed on supporting the development of clinical decision and critical thinking skills.
  • Hours: 84
  • Credits: 6
  • Pre-Requisites: FPLT8290 OR FPLT8291 AND NURS8357 OR NURS8358 AND NURS8765 OR PHAR8010
  • CoRequisites:

Living with Chronic Illness and Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment
NURS8855

Description: This course will focus on comprehensive geriatric assessment, and older adults living with chronic illness. Students will examine the quality of life and well-being of older adults who live with chronic illness such as visual/auditory changes, bone and joint disorders, pain and dementia. Promoting effective learning/communication, quality, and continuity of care within the health care continuum will be supported as students gain a greater understanding of chronic illness and disease. Students will also examine the physical and cognitive challenges associated with aging, through the development of individual, holistic comprehensive geriatric plans of care. Students will learn how to care for older adults and how to support their families through application of the nursing process, utilizing case studies to enhance learning.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Policy & Advocacy: Throughout the Lifespan and Across the Continuum of Care
NURS8945

Description:

In partnership with Canadians, registered nurses play a pivotal role in setting the stage for equitable access to factors that predetermine health and wellness. This course will explore the role of the registered nurse in influencing healthy public policy at the community and population levels in Canada. Students will ground their learning in the fundamental role that nurses play in our health system with respect to reducing conditions that predispose individuals, families, communities and population to vulnerability.

  • Hours: 28
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites: NURS1510 OR NURS8393
  • CoRequisites:

Care of the Person and Family at the End of Life
NURS8965

Description:

This course will examine the role and value of the registered nurse within interprofessional collaborative palliative/end-of-life care delivery models. Holistic approaches to the care of the dying person and family will be emphasized. This course deepens the learners understanding of authentic therapeutic relationships within the context of death, dying and diversity. A person- and family-centered approach will be emphasized as foundational. Emerging trends and issues will be explored.

  • Hours: 28
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Level 4

Course details

Field Placement III (Enhanced Practice for Internationally Educated Nurses)
FPLT8330

Description: Opportunities to amalgamate nursing experience, skill, and knowledge are provided as students start their transition to the role of an entry-level Canadian Registered Nurse. This placement will allow the student to participate as a contributing member of a health care team, within a long-term care setting.
  • Hours: 100
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites: FPLT8320 OR FPLT8325 AND NURS8686 OR NURS8687 AND NURS8855
  • CoRequisites:

NCLEX Preparation
NURS8375

Description: This course provides an overview of the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) in Canada. This course will enable students to review the NCLEX-RN Test Plan components and their relationship to the College of Nurses of Ontario Entry-to-Practice competencies. In addition, the student will have three opportunities to complete practice examinations and to identify and reflect on areas of strength and learning needs through a formal reflection process and completion of Action Plans.
  • Hours: 28
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Achieving Success in Your Health Care Career
NURS8580

Description: This course will prepare professional nursing students to transition into entry to practice, specifically examining essential employability skills and professional career development. Students will focus on developing oneself as the professional nurse including personal reflection, goal setting, and caregiver and self-care strategies. Professional communication and behaviours will be examined. Application of professional practices related to seeking, selecting, and securing employment opportunities will occur through participation in simulated employment procedures.
  • Hours: 28
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Community Nursing and Service Learning
NURS8865

Description: With a focus on delivering integrated care within the community and close to home, students will gain understanding of health and factors relevant to promoting health for individuals, families, communities and populations. This course provides the student with opportunities to learn about strategies to address community defined needs while promoting students’ sense of civic engagement and social responsibility. Students will engage in service learning experiences related to community leadership with a focus on health promotion and illnesses prevention.
  • Hours: 70
  • Credits: 5
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Leadership, Management and Trends in Nursing Practice
NURS8875

Description: In a dynamic and changing health care system, students will be introduced to concepts related to leadership, managements, and trends in nursing. This course will support professional socialization, while considering major trends and issues in nursing and health care practices at a provincial, national, and global health level.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) Preparation
NURS8885

Description: This course introduces Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE), a performance-based testing methodology which allows students to demonstrate their nursing knowledge, skill, and judgement for entry to practice competency. Students demonstrate the nine roles of the Registered Nurse through lab based simulations and standardized patient encounters within various practice settings. Through these experiences, students will provide care safely, competently, compassionately, and ethically to individuals across the lifespan as well as, families, groups, and communities.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: NURS8845
  • CoRequisites:

Program outcomes

  1. Conduct comprehensive assessments to plan individualized care supporting health promotion and disease prevention in complex and non-routine patient environments.
  2. Integrate evidence-informed research, theory, and critical inquiry within the context of the Canadian health-care system to inform nursing practice and advance clinical judgement.
  3. Model personal and professional responsibility, accountability, self-regulation, and ethical practice as a Registered Nurse when caring for clients and their families to meet
  4. Canadian nursing regulatory standards, practices, and legislation.
  5. Communicate effectively with diverse populations and the healthcare team to form partnerships and improve health outcomes for individuals, families, groups and communities.
  6. Integrate and promote best practices and approaches in relation to the gerontological population within the Canadian healthcare system to plan and deliver nursing care.
  7. Use knowledge from social and health sciences to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate nursing care across the lifespan and within the continuum of care.
  8. Use leadership frameworks to influence positive change related to social justice, health equity, and public policy at the individual, organizational, and healthcare system levels.
  9. Outline local community and provincial health care system resources and options to support decision-making and the implementation of nursing interventions.
  10. Establish education objectives to support career growth as a nurse in Ontario.
  11. Demonstrate entry-level Registered Nurse competencies in the Canadian health care system to provide client-centered care.
  12. Advocate for client, self and the nursing profession by implementing strategies to provide safe and quality nursing care.
  13. Integrate principles and philosophy of end of life care to support the client and their families through the experience of death and dying.