May 02, 2026  
Catalog 2024-2025 
    
Catalog 2024-2025 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

NURS 110 Introduction to Pathophysiology

3-4 credits
This course provides a foundational understanding of pathophysiology for nursing students. It focuses on the physiological processes and mechanisms that lead to disease and alterations in normal bodily functions. Students will explore the etiology, pathogenesis, and clinical manifestations of common diseases affecting various body systems. The course emphasizes the integration of basic science with clinical practice, preparing students to understand and apply pathophysiological concepts in patient care.

Prerequisites: BIOL& 241 BIOL& 242 BIOL& 260 CHEM& 121 , any CMST& course, ENGL& 101 MATH& 146 NUTR& 101 , and PSYC& 200  

Corequisites: All NURS courses within same quarter

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

  • Demonstrate understanding of normal physiological processes: Students will be able to describe and explain the normal functioning of various body systems, including cellular biology, genetics, and biochemical processes, providing a foundation for understanding pathophysiology
  • Identify common pathophysiological mechanisms: Students will be able to recognize and articulate the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms involved in common diseases and disorders across different body systems, including alterations in cellular function, inflammation, and immune response
  • Analyze disease progression and manifestations: Students will be able to analyze the progression of diseases and disorders, including the sequence of events leading to pathology, associated signs and symptoms, and diagnostic indicators, enabling effective clinical assessment and patient care planning
  • Evaluate impact of pathophysiology on patient outcomes: Students will be able to evaluate the impact of pathophysiological processes on patient outcomes, including complications, prognosis, and quality of life, integrating knowledge of disease progression with nursing interventions and therapeutic approaches
  • Apply critical thinking to clinical scenarios: Students will be able to apply critical thinking skills to analyze and interpret clinical scenarios involving complex pathophysiological conditions, demonstrating the ability to prioritize interventions, anticipate complications, and adapt nursing care plans based on patient responses

Total Hours: 30-40 Theory (Lecture) Hours: 30-40