Professor: Department
Semester: Fall, Spring
Credits: 3
Prerequisites: Prior or concurrent enrollment in NUR 464.

Catalog Description: Examination of theories, issues, and concepts related to contemporary nursing practice. Emphasis on the application of principles of leadership and professionalism in a clinical experience.

The purpose of this course is to examine theories, issues and concepts related to professional nursing. The emphasis is on the application of principles of leadership and professionalism in a clinical experience. There is a classroom portion of this course which addresses leadership and management, with emphasis on professional role development. The leadership practicum provides each student with experience in applying management skills, leadership principles, and professional role development while working in partnership with a licensed nurse leader.

By the end of this course you will:

1. Describe the nurse leader's role in conducting and participating in nursing and interdisciplinary meetings.
2. Identify leadership strategies the nurse leader uses in communicating with nursing staff as well as other professional colleagues.
3. Examine unit documents such as the organizational chart, mission, philosophy, policies, unit specific policies, position descriptions, performance evaluation policies, transfer policy, and corrective action procedures.
4. Observe the nurse leader's one-to-one or group discussions with staff related to patient care or unit issues.
5. Observe how nurse leaders evaluate the on-going care of patients through patient care rounds, team conferences, etc.
6. Observe the nurse leader's approach to decision-making and negotiations.
7. Describes how changes are determined as well as how change is implemented.
8. Assist the nurse leader with activities he/she deems would enhance the student's learning experience.
9. Shadow a charge nurse / clinical coordinator for at least one (1) full shift to gain a better understanding of the role and responsibilities of this level manager (receiving & giving shift reports, doing assignments, delegation, etc.).
10. Provide care to patients on the unit in conjunction with an expert nurse.

This course consists of a weekly three hour seminar session, and a 50 hour practicum with a licensed nurse leader. This course includes pre and post conference experiences, student led seminars, development of a change in policy at a health care agency, and experience writing a resume and interviewing. Some of the course is web enhanced. Topics include:

• Leadership and Management Styles
• Quality Improvement
• Making Professional Presentations
• Delegating Responsibilities
• Preparation for and Registration for the National Nursing Examination
• Resume Writing and Interviewing Successfully
• Application of a Change Theory
• Using Research to Promote Evidence Based Practice
• Advanced Practice Nursing Options/Certifications
• Managed Care
• Health Information Systems/Technology in Nursing and Health Care
• Legal/Ethical Issues that relate to Registration and Licensure

This is a required nursing course that is taken at the conclusion of the undergraduate nursing curriculum. Rapid changes in the health care delivery system have altered nursing roles and care delivery. Agencies employing new graduates have indicated the need for increased knowledge and experience in leadership, management, and case management skills.

• Nursing Licensure Exam: NCLEX-RN
• Register to take the NCLEX-RN exam
• Register to sit for exam
• State of Rhode Island Board of Nursing application for licensure in RI