RN-BSN to MSN Program

This course stimulates a refinement and appreciation of the potential of the research process in the development of nursing, client, and health-care systems. This course emphasizes the research approach in nursing and the necessity for theory-based and evidence-based practice. Problem identification, literature review, hypothesis formulation, research design, sampling, data collection, and analysis will be explored.

This course focuses on theory and method in the problem-solving approach of care delivery, integrating personal clinical judgment, patient or client preference and values, and the best clinical evidence. Models of EBP are described and students develop a researchable question, search and appraise the literature, and integrate the findings into a plan of care based on patient/client preferences and values. Evaluation of the process and dissemination of conclusions are presented.

Students explore the political, organizational, social, cultural, and economic factors affecting nursing practice. Acute care, long-term care, and community-based settings are examined regarding their organizational structures, health-care financing, and reimbursement challengers. Budgeting principles are analyzed with an emphasis on creating a budget on a spreadsheet for a program of nursing services. Clinical data repositories and interdisciplinary efforts are scrutinized within the context of patient-centered, safe care, and process improvement initiatives.