2016 Critical Care Nursing Program

Description

This course, Introduction to Critical Care Nursing, was created to help ensure a successful learning experience with online education. It is organized in two parts:

Part 1: Reviews several characteristics of online content delivery, presents concepts related to declarative and procedural learning, and describes study techniques for successfully completing online courses and for achieving learning outcomes.

Part 2: Guides the learner on a navigational journey through accessing and evaluating medical resources on the Internet and through the specific components and functionality of the Critical Care Nursing Program.

Learning Objectives

1. Relate elements of quality online courses including advantages and challenges related to this delivery system.
2. Recognize the relationship between temperament, time, and technical competency and successful online learning.
3. Describe specific techniques to successfully study and learn concepts and processes in the online environment.
4. Use several search engines to access and evaluate medical information from the Internet.
5. Navigate through the components of an online course.

Description

This Cardiovascular course reviews normal structure and function of the cardiovascular system. Its importance to homeostasis and cellular well-being is discussed, and the role of the autonomic nervous system is evaluated. Treatments for cardiovascular dysfunction are assessed.

Learning Objectives

1. Identify the role of circulating blood in meeting cellular needs and maintaining homeostasis.
2. Describe the normal structure and function of the cardiovascular system.
3. Analyze the relationship between autonomic nervous system response and cardiovascular function.
4. List the factors that affect cardiac output and explain its impact on body perfusion.
5. Describe the impact of medications on the autonomic nervous system.

Description

This cardiovascular course for critical care nurses presents an overview of the cardiovascular patient assessment process and a review of the cardiovascular diagnostic tools used for evaluation. Signs and symptoms of cardiovascular dysfunction are discussed, and techniques for auscultating heart sounds and taking a pertinent cardiovascular patient history are described. Course content includes descriptions of blood tests and invasive and non-invasive procedures used to evaluate and diagnose cardiovascular dysfunction.

Learning Objectives

1. Recognize auscultation findings of normal and abnormal heart sounds.
2. Assess findings of valvular disease and ventricular septal defects.
3. Assess findings of fluid changes within the heart.
4. Complete a pertinent cardiovascular patient history.
5. Describe blood tests that are essential to the cardiovascular assessment.
6. Compare the noninvasive tests used to evaluate for cardiovascular dysfunction.
7. Discuss invasive cardiovascular tests and interventions.

Description

The goal of this program is to enhance the participant's cardiac knowledge. Concepts that are covered include: identification, diagnosis, and medical/nursing management of patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome, as well as clinical and hemodynamic signs of decompensation related to acute myocardial infarction.

Learning Objectives

1. Identify cardiovascular risk factors and metabolic syndrome.
2. Identify signs and symptoms of acute coronary syndrome.
3. Identify diagnostic criteria for unstable angina, STEMI (ST-elevation myocardial infarction), and NSTEMI (Non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction).
4. Discuss ECG findings while comparing and contrasting ST segment differences in unstable angina, STEMI, and NSTEMI.
5. Discuss the evidence-based practice medical/nursing management for care of the acute coronary syndrome patient.
6. Discuss the potential complications of acute myocardial infarction.
7. Differentiate left and right ventricular failure, as well as medical management of each.
8. Discuss hemodynamic principles in the following patient populations: cardiogenic shock secondary to left ventricular failure, right ventricular infarction, papillary muscle rupture, acute ventricular septal defect, pulmonary emboli, and hypovolemic shock.

Description

This cardiovascular course for critical care nurses is the fourth in the series. Presented in this course are various cardiovascular disease states and surgical approaches and treatments for each. Also discussed are aortic pathology, aneurysms, and complications. Cardiac structure disorders, complications, as well as arrhythmias, will also be presented.

Learning Objectives

1. Identify the signs and symptoms of carotid artery disease and peripheral artery disease and treatment options for each.
2. Identify coronary revascularization procedures, including less invasive approaches.
3. Discuss risk factors for aneurysm formation, differentiate between the types of aneurysms and locations, and the treatment options available.
4. Identify the various cardiac structures disorders and complications that may occur.
5. Explain the use of a temporary pacemaker and the indications for an implantable cardioverter defibrillator.

Description

Medications and Case Studies is the fifth and final component in the cardiovascular course for critical care nurses. Course content includes several case studies, including patient presentation, diagnosis, treatment, medications, surgical procedures, and outcomes for each patient. Also included in this course is a review of cardiovascular medications often used in this arena, such as ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor antagonists, beta blockers, and statins.

Learning Objectives

1. Identify the various cardiovascular medications, including their indications, contraindications, dosages, and adverse effects.
2. Describe procedures and diagnostic tests used in the cardiovascular arena.
3. Identify the signs and symptoms associated with cardiovascular disease.
4. Describe common treatments and possible complications associated with cardiovascular care, including post-op complications.
5. Identify risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease.

Description

This endocrine course for nurses provides a review of the endocrine system with an emphasis on assessment, treatment, and care of the patient with endocrine disorders most commonly encountered in critical care. The specific endocrine disorders covered include: syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone, adrenal insufficiency, pheochromocytoma, Cushing's syndrome, Addison's disease, and hypoparathyroidism.

Learning Objectives

1. Describe the anatomy and physiology of the endocrine system, including the function of various hormones and associated physiological effects.
2. Compare the pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostics, treatment, and nursing care management of a patient with syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone to those of a patient with diabetes insipidus.
3. Identify the etiology and the signs and symptoms of a patient with Cushing's syndrome and describe the diagnostics and treatments used.
4. Identify the etiology and the signs and symptoms of a patient with a pheochromocytoma and describe the diagnostics and treatments used.
5. Identify the etiology and the signs and symptoms of a patient with hyperthyroid crisis and myxedema coma and describe the diagnostics and treatments used for each.
6. Identify the etiology and the signs and symptoms of a patient with hypoparathyroidism and describe the diagnostics and treatments used.

Description

This Diabetes course for nurses provides assessment, treatment, management, and care of the patient with diabetes mellitus. In addition to an overview of basic diabetes care, treatment and management, specific protocols and guidelines to providing optimal patient outcomes and metabolic control of blood sugar levels of a patient with diabetes will be discussed. Educating and ensuring the patient is competent in self-care is also presented.

Learning Objectives

1. Recall that diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic diseases whose acute and chronic complications can be minimized or prevented through appropriate treatment and management.
2. Determine the medication therapy used as an integral treatment intervention in the management of diabetes mellitus of the hospitalized patient.
3. Identify specific protocols and guidelines, established for optimal patient outcomes, for the patient with diabetes.
4. Identify the special care protocols and guidelines that are essential to re-establishing metabolic control of patients blood sugars.
5. Ensure the individual with diabetes mellitus has a competent skill level, with self-care as the foundation for maintaining blood glucose control after hospital discharge.

Description

This GI course for nurses presents a brief overview of the structures and function of the GI system as well as an assessment of the patient with GI disorders. Course content includes identifying abnormal findings of the GI tract and appropriate management of the critically ill patient. Also presented is the function of the accessory organs of the GI tract and normal nutrient metabolism.

Learning Objectives

1. Present a systematic approach to GI assessment.
2. Present the circulatory system and the nervous system's role in the GI function.
3. Identify abnormal findings associated with inspection, auscultation, percussion, and palpation.
4. Describe diagnostic procedures and pertinent laboratory tests used in the assessment of the GI system.
5. Distinguish between the causes and clinical manifestations of upper and lower GI bleeding.
6. Describe the clinical manifestations of acute pancreatitis and hepatic failure.
7. Identify the treatment modalities used in the management of acute pancreatitis and hepatic failure.
8. List the metabolic responses to injury and illness in the critically ill patient.
9. Review considerations and strategies required in meeting the nutritional needs of critically ill patients.

Description

This hematology course for nurses presents a brief overview of the structures and function of the hematologic system and the care and treatment of patients with diseases that arise from various blood disorders. Course content includes components of the blood and their functions, normal and abnormal hematologic conditions, and needed responses in the critical care setting. Also presented are several laboratory procedures and guidelines related to obtaining and processing blood and normal/abnormal level identification. This content is supported by two other courses: Hematology: White Blood Cells and Hematology: Maintaining Hemostasis and Immune Function. They are all a part of an educational program for Critical Care Nurses that addresses each body system.

Learning Objectives

1. Name the functions of the blood.
2. Describe the anatomical structures of the hematologic system and their functions, including the bone marrow, liver, and spleen.
3. Identify the cellular components of the hematological system and their functions, including stem cells, red blood cells, platelets, coagulation factors, plasma, and immunoglobulins.
4. List the factors included in the clinical and laboratory assessment of the patient with hematologic disorders and their physical findings.
5. Describe the physiology of red blood cells and explain the disorders of RBCs.
6. Identify the factors included in the clinical assessment with the patient who has anemia and explain red blood cells indices found in anemic patients.
7. Describe the pathophysiology, laboratory findings, and patient management of iron-deficiency anemia.
8. Describe the pathophysiology, laboratory findings, and patient management of sickle cell anemia.

Description

This Hematology course for nurses presents an overview of the components of blood, the different types of white blood cells, and the role they play in the body's immune system. Course content includes discussion on the difference between humoral and cell-mediated immunity, clinical assessment of a patient with an immune reaction, as well as the etiology, pathophysiology, and care issues that occur with neutropenia and leukocytosis. Also presented is the morbidity and mortality observed in patients with these disorders.

Learning Objectives

1. Identify the different types of white blood cells (WBCs) and the role they play in the body's immune system.
2. Differentiate between humoral and cell-mediated immunity.
3. Describe the physical findings.
4. List the factors included in the clinical assessment of the patient with an immune reaction.
5. Identify the etiology, pathophysiology, and care issues with neutropenia and leukocytosis.

Description

This Hematology course for nurses presents an overview of the components of blood, the different types of white blood cells, and the role they play in the body's immune system. Course content includes discussion on the difference between humoral and cell-mediated immunity, clinical assessment of a patient with an immune reaction, as well as the etiology, pathophysiology, and care issues that occur with neutropenia and leukocytosis. Also presented is the morbidity and mortality observed in patients with these disorders.

Learning Objectives

1. Identify the different types of white blood cells (WBCs) and the role they play in the body's immune system.
2. Differentiate between humoral and cell-mediated immunity.
3. Describe the physical findings.
4. List the factors included in the clinical assessment of the patient with an immune reaction.
5. Identify the etiology, pathophysiology, and care issues with neutropenia and leukocytosis.

Description

This Maintaining Hemostasis and Immune Function course describes different components of the immune system and factors that play a key role in maintaining hemostasis in the body. Also discussed are clinical and laboratory assessments of the patient with an immune reaction, as well as assessing a patient with hemotologic disorders. Included is a comprehensive look at HIT, DIC, and HIV.

Learning Objectives

1. The blood has multiple structures and complex functions.
2. The role of red blood cells is critical to patient health.
3. Disorders of RBCs can manifest as anemia or erythrocytosis.
4. The role and number of white blood cells (WBCs) has critical impact on patient health.
5. Disorders of WBCs can manifest as neutropenia or leukocytosis.
6. An intact immune system is regulated by humoral and cell-mediated immunity and is critical for continued health.
7. There are several unhealthy states that arise from hematologic disorders; each of these has specific signs, symptoms, and treatment.

Description

This Multisystem course is the last in the series of courses for critical care nursing candidates. It uses pertinent information from other courses to pull together and describe the results of decreased tissue perfusion resulting from dysfunction/failure of multiple body systems. Critical care nurses will become adept at identifying various types of shock, along with the clinical presentations and steps essential to achieve the best clinical outcome.

Sponsor Information: This course series was possible through a grant funded by DN, BHPr, HRSA, DHHS, and NEPR

Grant Number: D11HP08321-01

Project Title: RN Critical Care Residency for Urban and Rural Hospitals

Learning Objectives

1. Differentiate between normal and abnormal perfusion as it relates to pipes (arteries/veins) and the pump (the heart).
2. Classify the different phases of any shock state.
3. Identify the cascade of events during the progressive shock phase.
4. Recall from previous courses the principles of cardiac output, renal compensation mechanisms, and blood clotting responses that are affected during the refractory phase of shock.
5. Explain the nature and complications of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS).

Description

This Multisystem course presents an overview of shock, differentiates between the five types of shock, and discusses the causes, signs/symptoms, pathophysiology, and treatment associated with each type. Also presented is critical nursing care based on assessment findings and response to therapy.

Sponsor Information: This course series was possible through a grant funded by DN, BHPr, HRSA, DHHS, and NEPR

Grant Number: D11HP08321-01

Project Title: RN Critical Care Residency for Urban and Rural Hospitals.

Learning Objectives

1. Describe the intrinsic and extrinsic factors as well as the collaborative treatment goals for a patient with shock.
2. Identify the cause, presentation, diagnosis, and treatment for a patient experiencing cardiogenic shock.
3. Identify the cause, presentation, and treatment for a patient experiencing hypovolemic shock.
4. Identify the cause, presentation, and treatment for a patient experiencing anaphylactic shock.
5. Identify the cause, presentation, and treatment for a patient experiencing neurogenic shock.
6. Identify the cause, presentation, and treatment for a patient experiencing septic shock.

Description

This neurological course for nurses presents an overview of the structures; microstructures, and macrostructures of the neurological system. Course content includes discussion of basic and complex neurological assessments, intracranial dynamics, and optimal management of the critically ill patient. Also presented are several diagnostic tests and procedures used in the evaluation of a neurological patient.

Learning Objectives

1. Name the microstructures of the neurological system and describe their functions, including impulse conduction and neurotransmitters.
2. List the macrostructures of the neurological system and identify their locations in the body.
3. Describe the major functions of the neurological system's macrostructures.
4. Explain the intracranial dynamics of the neurological system including the Monroe-Kellie hypothesis and autoregulation of intracranial pressure.
5. Identify types and causes of herniation syndromes.
6. Summarize the steps involved in basic and complex neurological assessment.
7. Identify common diagnostic tests used for neurological assessment and diagnosis including use, data generated, and related nursing protocols.

Description

This neurological course for nurses presents the causes, diagnosis, and treatment for patients who present with epidural and subdural hematomas, as well as those who present with intracranial, intraventricular, and subarachnoid hemorrhages. Also discussed is the treatment and nursing care utilized in the care of patients who are diagnosed with arteriovenous malformation or ischemic stroke.

Learning Objectives

1. Differentiate between epidural and subdural hematomas. Describe the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and nursing care for each type of hematoma.
2. Classify intracranial, intraventricular, and subarachnoid hemorrhage, and identify the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and nursing care for each type of stroke.
3. Identify arteriovenous malformation, and describe the causes, treatment, and nursing care.
4. Describe the causes, treatment, and nursing care for ischemic stroke.

Description

This neurological course for nurses presents disease states of the patient with a head injury or spinal cord injury. Also presented are surgical treatments that are often used to treat specific injuries and the expected outcomes of these procedures as well as nursing treatment utilized in caring for patients who have these injuries.

Learning Objectives

1. Define traumatic brain injury and identify the various types of injury.
2. Describe the treatment guidelines for traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), including special nursing care considerations.
3. Name the steps critical to "initial care" for TBI victims.
4. Identify the mechanisms and types of spinal cord injuries.
5. Differentiate between complete and incomplete functional loss.
6. Describe treatment and patient care considerations for patients with spinal cord injuries.

Description

This neurological course for nurses presents disease states of the patient with a neurological disorder. Course content includes diagnosis, etiology, and classifications of seizures and epilepsy, as well as treatments utilized for these disorders. Also presented are CNS infections, neuromuscular diseases, neurological tumors, and medications commonly used in the neurological arena.

Learning Objectives

1. Understand seizure and treatment modalities.
2. Recognize CNS infections, causes, and treatments.
3. Identify the various neuromuscular diseases, and diagnosis and treatment for each.
4. Identify the various brain tumors and therapeutic treatments available.
5. Identify the various medications utilized in the neuroscience arena.

Description

This pulmonary course for critical care nurses presents a brief overview of the structures and functions of the pulmonary system as well as its role in the regulation of gas exchange and the maintenance of acid/base balance. Techniques for obtaining and analyzing arterial blood gases are described, and differentiation of imbalance pathologies are discussed. Course content encompasses clinical presentation and management of patients with various acid/base imbalances.

Learning Objectives

1. Describe the anatomy and physiology of the respiratory system.
2. Discuss the mechanisms that control respiration.
3. Discuss the steps in diffusion and gas exchange.
4. Discuss the relationships described by the oxyhemoglobin dissociation curve.
5. Describe factors that affect the work of breathing.
6. Discuss the clinical implications of normal and abnormal ABG values.
7. Discuss compensation mechanisms for pH imbalances.
8. Describe ABG test processes and interpretation.

Description

This pulmonary course for nurses presents the methods for assessing the respiratory system, including inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation. The modalities used to assist and support ventilation are outlined and defined. The methods for maintaining an open airway are described. Course content discusses indications and criteria for long-term airway support.

Learning Objectives

1. Explain the process of assessing the pulmonary system, elaborating on the components of inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation.
2. Discuss the importance of medical history as the bedside inspection is initiated.
3. Describe the process of chest auscultation and the implications of misplaced breath sounds.
4. List four changes that occur in the respiratory system as a result of aging.
5. Describe the requirements for normal oxygenation, and list the signs and symptoms of oxygen deprivation.
6. Describe four oxygen delivery devices and the criteria/parameters for each.
7. Explain two assistive/correction actions for airway obstruction.

Description

This course on ventilators and chest tubes includes a discussion of modes of ventilation, ventilator-associated pneumonia, suction/secretion management, and the ventilator's effect on specific body systems. Chest tubes and the varieties of chest drainage systems utilized to correct pulmonary anomalies (e.g. air and/or fluid in the pleural space) are also discussed.

Learning Objectives

1. Explain various modes of ventilation.
2. List three interventions that assist in the prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia.
3. Differentiate between high pressure and low pressure alarms as well as circumstances when they occur.
4. Describe how positive pressure ventilation can affect several body system functions.
5. Describe appropriate suctioning technique and supplies necessary for the process.
6. Describe indications for chest tube placement and chest drainage systems utilized.
7. Explain appropriate maintenance techniques and troubleshooting activities for chest tubes.
8. List two indications for chest tube clamping and the guidelines utilized.

Description

This last course in the pulmonary series for nurses presents various disease states of the pulmonary system. Included in this course is the etiology and clinical presentation for patients presenting with acute respiratory failure, ARDs, COPD and asthma, and other pulmonary diseases, such as lung cancer and pulmonary emboli. Also presented are medications, therapies, and treatments utilized in the care of these patients.

Learning Objectives

1. Calculate the V/Q ratio and the PaO2/FiO2 ratio.
2. Identify the pathology, etiology, and clinical presentation for a patient with acute respiratory failure.
3. Describe the physical findings and list the factors included in the clinical assessment of the patient with acute respiratory distress syndrome.
4. List treatment, therapy, and medications used in the treatment of a patient with acute respiratory distress syndrome.
5. Describe the physical findings and list the factors included in the clinical assessment of the patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma.
6. Identify the various medications and therapies used in the treatment of a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma.
7. Identify the signs and symptoms of pneumonia, pulmonary emboli, and lung cancer, and treatment options for each.

Description

This renal course for nurses presents an overview of the anatomy and physiology of the renal system, patient assessment, and common diagnostic procedures for renal evaluation. Course content includes the kidney's role in forming and excreting urine, maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance, producing hormones, and regulating acid-base in balance.

Learning Objectives

1. Differentiate between the macro and microstructures of the kidney.
2. Describe the role of the kidney in arterial blood pressure regulation.
3. Explain the physiology involved in urine formation, maintaining acid-base, fluid, and electrolyte balances.
4. Identify patient symptoms, treatment, and care issues with fluid and electrolyte imbalances.
5. Discuss the kidney's endocrine functions.
6. Recognize various laboratory tests and identify their strengths for renal evaluation.
7. Explain the patient preparation and care protocols specific to common laboratory and diagnostic procedures.

Description

This Renal: Abnormalities and Treatment course is designed for nursing professionals and describes several common renal alterations and disease states. Course content includes the etiology, pathophysiology, patient care, and treatment issues and choices with these diseases, as well as issues related to diagnosis, care, and treatment of patients with acute and chronic renal failure.

Learning Objectives

1. Differentiate etiologies of pre, intra, and post renal failure.
2. Compare and contrast acute renal failure and chronic renal failure.
3. Discuss treatment modalities/options for patients with renal failure.
4. Identify appropriate care techniques and nutritional concerns for patients with renal abnormalities.
5. Verbalize an understanding of pharmacokinetics as they relate to patients with renal insufficiency/failure.