NURS 109 Nursing Assistant Practicum

2 credits

The Nursing Assistant Clinical course offers students the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world healthcare settings, providing essential hands-on experience in patient care. Students will work under the supervision of qualified healthcare professionals, focusing on critical skills such as effective communication, patient identification, and infection control. The course emphasizes practical competencies including measuring vital signs, assisting with ambulation and transfers, and providing personal care tasks such as bathing, toileting, and oral care. Students will also learn to document patient care accurately, ensuring comprehensive communication within the healthcare team. This clinical experience prepares students to deliver compassionate and competent care while fostering the professional skills necessary for success as nursing assistants.

Prerequisites: Completion of ABED 40 or AHSE 56 (or placement into MATH 87 or AHSE 66 or higher) and ENGL 93 (or placement into ENGL 99 or higher)

Corequisites: NURS 107 and NURS 108

Course Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:

Communicate Effectively: Utilize verbal and non-verbal communication techniques to establish rapport with patients, families, and healthcare team members
Implement Patient Identification Protocols: Accurately identify patients using standardized methods to enhance safety and prevent errors in care delivery
Practice Infection Control Measures: Demonstrate proper infection control practices, including hand hygiene and the use of PPE, to reduce the risk of healthcare-associated infections
Measure and Record Vital Signs: Competently measure vital signs (temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure) and interpret their significance in monitoring patient health
Assist with Ambulation and Transfers: Safely assist patients with ambulation and transfers, using appropriate techniques to ensure comfort and prevent falls
Provide Personal Care: Offer compassionate assistance with toileting, bathing, oral care, peri care, foot care, dressing, and feeding, respecting patient dignity and preferences
Conduct Range of Motion Exercises: Perform and assist patients with range of motion exercises to enhance mobility and prevent complications associated with immobility
Position Patients Safely: Apply effective positioning techniques to promote patient comfort, safety, and prevent pressure injuries
Document Patient Care Accurately: Maintain accurate and thorough documentation of patient care activities, adhering to legal and ethical standards
Reflect on Clinical Practice: Engage in self-reflection and feedback processes to continuously improve caregiving practices and professional development

Total Hours: 40 Guided Practice (Lab or Clinical) Hours: 40