Master Resource Outline

 

Course Title: NRSG 625 Advanced Diagnostics in Primary Care

Credits: 2 (lecture/ elective)
Semesters Offered:Spring
Prerequisites:N601, N602, N621, N622, N623 or instructor permission
Degree:DNP
DNP Essentials:I, VI, VII, VIII
Graduate Program Objectives:1, 5, 6, 7, 8

 

Course Description:

This course will explore different diagnostic modalities, their history, use, and how to choose the best diagnostic tests for your patient. The course will also focus on complex patient work-up and case studies in rheumatology, dermatology, auto-immune conditions, and chronic illnesses. Emphasis for this course is on helping practitioners order appropriate testing, interpret diagnostic tests, communicating with patients, and collaborating with an interprofessional team.

Catalog Course Description:

This course explores various diagnostic modalities for complex patients with rheumatology, dermatology, auto-immune conditions, and chronic illnesses. Emphasis is on helping practitioners order appropriate testing, interpret diagnostic tests, communicate treatment plans with patients, and collaboration interprofessional teams.

 

Course Objectives:

  1. Contrast specific laboratory tests focusing on use, ordering techniques, interpretation, and cost.
  2. Differentiate utility of advanced imaging such as plain film x-rays, ultrasound, CT, MRI, and nuclear medicine in diagnosing and managing acute and chronic conditions.
  3. Demonstrate basic x-ray interpretation.
  4. Apply advanced diagnostic strategies in the management of clinical problems commonly seen in primary care.

Course Learning Outcomes: Upon completing this course the student will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate proficiency in interpreting chest x-rays.
  2. Demonstrate basic proficiency in the understanding of advanced imaging modalities.
  3. Demonstrate proficiency in reading a 12 lead EKG.
  4. Demonstrate skills in managing advanced clinical problems seen in primary care.
  5. Demonstrate cultural competence in delivering health care services that meet the social, cultural, and linguistic needs of patients.

Recommended Content:

  • Reading x-rays
  • Ordering and interpreting advanced imaging (MRI, US, CT, PET, etc)
  • General laboratory testing (blood, urine, cultures, fecal, assays)
  • Communication skills/interprofessional communication and collaboration
  • Advanced coding and billing- CPT coding of procedures

Suggested Course Activities:

  • Case studies of complex GI, rheumatic, musculoskeletal, dermatological, hematology, and autoimmune workups
  • Various special topics to enhance the advanced practice nurse skillset which may include workups for acute illness and chronic diseases, disease workup, clinical prevention and screening techniques and testing.
  • Case-based patient approach to determine best practices using the latest evidence and guidelines using group work 
  • Online discussions
  • Online x-ray module
  • Lectures/Guest lectures

 

GAAC Approved: January 22, 2022

Faculty Approved: February 14, 2022