Practical Nursing
PNUR 101 Anatomy and Physiology
(3 credits) F, P (4,0,0,0,0 for 12 weeks)
This course is an introduction to the human body. Learners explore the structure and function of main organ systems and discuss health promotion strategies to support optimal function of each system. The terminology of human anatomy and physiology will be stressed.
PNUR 101 is now a program admission requirement for the Practical Nursing Program.
Prerequisite: Biology 12, or BIOL 103, or equivalent
Note: The following PNUR courses are restricted to students in the Practical Nursing programs:
PNUR 110 Professional Growth (Access)
(2 credits) P (2,0,0,0,0 for 12 weeks)
This course assists the RCA graduate make the transition from role of RCA to practical nurse role. Focus is on legal, ethical, and philosophical bases for practice. Roles and responsibilities of the practical nurse are examined as is the importance of personal reflection, critical thinking and self-directed learning.
PNUR 111 Professional Growth
(1 credit) F (2,0,0,0,0 for 12 weeks)
This course introduces the evolution of practical nursing as a profession within the Canadian health care system. If focuses on legal, ethical and philosophical bases for practice. Roles and responsibilities are examined and importance of reflection and critical thinking is explored.
PNUR 113 Professional Issues
(1 credit) P, F (4,0,0,0,0 for 5 weeks)
This course prepares learner to take on role of licensed practical nurse. Learners explore role of advocate, partner and change agent. Standards of practice, professional and union affiliation, team membership and lifelong learning are also discussed. Students prepare for and practice writing the CPNR examination.
Prerequisite: PNUR 160, or PNUR 162
PNUR 114 Professional Practice 1
(2 credit) P, (2,0,0,0,0 for 12 weeks)
This course provides an introduction to the profession of Practical Nursing (PN) and the philosophy and foundational concepts of the Provincial PN Program. Legislation that informs PN practice within British Columbia and the history of nursing, and specifically the evolution of Practical Nursing within the Canadian health care system, will be discussed.
Pre or Co-requisites: PNUR 115, PNUR 116, PNUR 117, PNUR 118, PNUR 119
PNUR 115 Professional Communication 1
(2 credit) P, (3,0,0,0,0 for 12 weeks)
This course provides learners with the foundational knowledge for caring and professional communication in nursing. An experiential and self-reflective approach is used to develop self-awareness and interpersonal communication skills in the context of safe, competent, and collaborative nursing practice. Topics include communication theory, the nurse-client relationship, therapeutic communication, cross-cultural communication, and effective teamwork.
Pre or Co-requisites: PNUR 114, PNUR 116, PNUR 117, PNUR 118, PNUR 119
PNUR 116 The Variations in Health 1
(3 credit) P, (3.5,0,0,0,0 for 12 weeks)
This course provides learners with the foundations of disease and illness across the lifespan. Learners will gain an understanding of pathophysiological alterations of body systems and nursing management of disease and illness. Cultural diversity in healing practices will be explored as well as the incorporation of evidenced informed practice.
Co-requisites: PNUR 114, PNUR 115, PNUR 117, PNUR 118, PNUR 119
PNUR 117 Health Promotion 1
(2 credit) P, (2.5,0,0,0,0 for 12 weeks)
This course introduces the concepts of health promotion, the determinants of health, health inequities, and develops a beginning knowledge of normal growth and development. Topics include health enhancement, health protection, disease prevention, health restoration/recovery, care, and support.
Co-requisites: PNUR 114, PNUR 115, PNUR 116, PNUR 118, PNUR 119
PNUR 118 Integrated Nursing Practice 1
(4 credit) P, (5.5,0,6,0,0 for 12 weeks)
This course assists learners to integrate theory from other Level 1 courses, focusing on the development of basic nursing care skills. Learners will apply nursing knowledge through the practice of clinical decision making, nursing assessment skills, and nursing interventions aimed at the promotion of health, independence, and comfort.
Co-requisites: PNUR 114, PNUR 115, PNUR 116, PNUR 117, PNUR 119
PNUR 119 Pharmacology 1
(2 credit) P, (2.5,0,0,0,0 for 12 weeks)
This course examines the principles of pharmacology, application of the nursing process and clinical decision-making required to administer medications in a safe and professional manner. Various routes of medication administration are introduced and complementary, Indigenous, alternative remedies, and polypharmacy across the lifespan are also explored.
Co-requisites: PNUR 114, PNUR 115, PNUR 116, PNUR 117, PNUR 118
PNUR 120 Health
(2 credits) P (3,0,0,0,0 for 12 weeks)
This course builds on previous learning about the concept of health as a dynamic process. Within the context of Canadian society, health is a holistic process directly influenced by an individual's choices. Health is an integration of physical, psychological, social , cognitive, spiritual and environmental dimensions.
Pre or Co-requisite: PNUR 130
PNUR 121 Health 1
(4 credits) F (5,0,0,0,0 for 12 weeks)
This course introduces the concept of health as a dynamic process. Within the context of Canadian society, health is a holistic process directly influenced by an individual's choices. Health is an integration of physical, psychological, social, cognitive, spiritual and environmental dimensions.
Pre or Co-requisite: PNUR 131
PNUR 122 Health 2 and Geropharmacology
(3 credits) W (5,0,0,0,0 for 9 weeks)
This course focuses on health promotion and wellness with aging individuals. Myths, stereotypes and prejudices related to aging are discussed. Issues such as aging family, personal adjustment and community resources are explored. The learner is introduced to knowledge, skills and issues related to medication use by older adults.
Prerequisite: PNUR 121
Pre or Co-requisite: PNUR 132
PNUR 123 Health 3
(2 credits) P, F (4,0,0,0,0 for 5 weeks)
This course focuses on health promotion across the lifespan, for those experiencing acute or episodic health challenges. The role of the practical nurse in supporting health and healing will be explored. The importance of collaboration and accurate documentation within acute care practice is also examined.
Prerequisite: PNUR 120, or PNUR 122
Co-requisite: PNUR 133
PNUR 124 Professional Practice 2
(1 credit) F, (1.5,0,0,0,0 for 14 weeks)
This course examines the legislation influencing PN practice with clients experiencing chronic illness and those in residential care settings. Specific professional issues such as responsibility, accountability, ethical practice, inter-professional practice and leadership relevant to the PN role in residential care will be explored.
Prerequisite: PNUR 181
Co-requisites: PNUR 125, PNUR 126, PNUR 127, PNUR 128, PNUR 129
PNUR 125 Professional Communication 2
(2 credits) F, (2.5,0,0,0,0 for 14 weeks)
This course provides learners with an opportunity to develop professional communication skills with the older adult, and clients requiring end of life care. Interprofessional communication knowledge and skills are further developed.
Prerequisite: PNUR 181
Co-requisites: PNUR 124, PNUR 126, PNUR 127, PNUR 128, PNUR 129
PNUR 126 Variations in Health 2
(3 credits) F, (3.5,0,0,0,0 for 14 weeks)
This course focuses on pathophysiology as it relates to the aging process and selected chronic illnesses. The main focus is on the care of older adults experiencing a health challenge. Cultural diversity in healing practices will be explored as well as evidence informed research and practice.
Prerequisite: PNUR 181
Co-requisites: PNUR 124, PNUR 125, PNUR 127, PNUR 128, PNUR 129
PNUR 127 Health Promotion 2
(2 credits) F, (2.5,0,0,0,0 for 14 weeks)
This course focuses on health promotion as it relates to the aging process including exploration of health promotion activities aimed at supporting clients to maintain their health. The concepts of health promotion, physical and mental wellness, normal aging changes and continued independence are examined.
Prerequisite: PNUR 181
Co-requisites: PNUR 124, PNUR 125, PNUR 126, PNUR 128, PNUR 129
PNUR 128 Integrated Nursing Practice 2
(5 credits) F, (7,0,6,0,0 for 14 weeks)
This course emphasizes the development of clinical decision making, nursing assessments, and interventions to promote the health of older adults. A variety of approaches (e.g., simulation) will help learners to integrate theory from Level 1 and 11 courses to provide safe, competent, and ethical nursing care with older adults.
Prerequisite: PNUR 181
Co-requisites: PNUR 124, PNUR 125, PNUR 126, PNUR 127, PNUR 129
PNUR 129 Pharmacology 2
(2 credits) F, (2.5,0,0,0,0 for 14 weeks)
This course builds on Pharmacology 1 to increase learners' understanding of pharmacotherapeutics prescribed for illnesses clients experience across the lifespan. Topics incude drug classifications and links with common diseases/illness based on a body system approach and drug resistance.
Prerequisite: PNUR 181
Co-requisites: PNUR 124, PNUR 125, PNUR 126, PNUR 127, PNUR 128
PNUR 130 Healing and Pharmacology
(4 credits) P (5,0,0,0,0 for 12 weeks)
This course introduces healing as a holistic process. Chronic health challenges and/ or disabilities across the lifespan, are explored. The exploration of healing modalities will include an examination of the role of the PN in the safe use of medications.
Pre or Co-requisites: PNUR 101, PNUR 12
PNUR 131 Healing 1 and Basic Pharmacology
(3 credits) F (3,0,0,0,0 for 12 weeks)
This course introduces healing as a holistic process. Challenges to health and healing are explored and topics such as social environments, legislation and community resources are discussed. Exploration of healing modalities, includes an examination of role of PN in safe use of medications.
Pre or Co-requisites: PNUR 101, PNUR 121
PNUR 132 Healing 2
(3 credits) W (6,0,0,0,0 for 9 weeks)
This course introduces the learner to the concept of healing as it applies to the aging individual. Physical health challenges, clinical manifestations and nursing interventions are examined. Exploration of healing modalities will encourage a holistic view of each client with an emphasis on autonomy and independence.
Prerequisite: PNUR 131
Pre or Co-requisite: PNUR 122
PNUR 133 Healing 3
(5 credits) F, P (6,0,0,0,0 for 10 weeks)
This course focuses on promotion of healing across the lifespan for those experiencing acute health challenges. Common health challenges, clinical manifestations and appropriate nursing interventions are examined. Exploration of healing modalities encourages a holistic view. The importance of collaboration with other health care professionals is discussed.
Prerequisite: PNUR 130, or PNUR 132
Pre or Co-requisites: PNUR 123
PNUR 134 Professional Practice 3
(1 credit) W (2,0,0,0,0 for 10 weeks)
This course integrates the concepts from previous professional practice courses and introduces learners to practice in the community. The role of the Practical Nurse as leader is emphasized in interactions with clients and their families, and other health care providers.
Prerequisite: PNUR 182
Co-requisites: PNUR 135, PNUR 136, PNUR 137, PNUR 138
PNUR 135 Professional Communication 3
(1 credit) W (2,0,0,0,0 for 10 weeks)
This course focuses on specific professional communication skills used with clients and care providers across the lifespan requiring care in the community.
Prerequisite: PNUR 182
Co-requisites: PNUR 134, PNUR 136, PNUR 137, PNUR 138
PNUR 136 Variations in Health 3
(3 credits) W (4.5,0,0,0,0 for 10 weeks)
This course focuses on the continuum of care and the development of knowledge related to health challenges managed in the community setting. Pathophysiology and nursing care of clients requiring home health care, rehabilitation, and supportive services in the community will be explored.
Prerequisite: PNUR 182
Co-requisites: PNUR 134, PNUR 135, PNUR 137, PNUR 138
PNUR 137 Health Promotion 3
(3 credits) W (4,0,0,0,0 for 10 weeks)
This course is focused on health promotion as it relates to the continuum of care across the lifespan. Health promotion in the context of mental illness, physical and developmental disabilities and maternal /child health is highlighted. Normal growth and development from conception to middle adulthood is addressed.
Prerequisite: PNUR 182
Co-requisites: PNUR 134, PNUR 135, PNUR 136, PNUR 138
PNUR 138 Integrated Nursing Practice 3
(4 credits) W (6,0,6,0,0 for 10 weeks)
This course builds on the theory and practice from Level I and II. Through a variety of approaches (e.g., simulation), learners will continue to develop knowledge and practice comprehensive nursing assessment, planning for, and interventions for clients experiencing multiple health challenges.
Prerequisite: PNUR 182
Co-requisites: PNUR 134, PNUR 135, PNUR 136, PNUR 137
PNUR 140 Human Relationships
(2 credits) P (2,0,0,0,0 for 12 weeks)
This course is an introduction to effective interpersonal communication. Learners explore role of caring in human relationships and development of professional caring relationships. Learners gain awareness of interpersonal styles, group communication skills and adapted communication.
PNUR 141 Human Relationships 1
(2 credits) F (3,0,0,0,0 for 12 weeks)
This course is an introduction to effective interpersonal communication. Learners explore role of caring in human relationships and development of helping relationships. Learners gain awareness of interpersonal styles, group communication skills and adapted communication.
PNUR 142 Human Relationships 2
(1 credit) W (2,0,0,0,0 for 9 weeks)
This course focuses on effective interpersonal communication with the older adult. Age-related changes and health challenges that interfere with communication will be examined. The learner will also be introduced to leadership skills required for effective team functioning.
Prerequisite: PNUR 141
PNUR 144 Professional Practice 4
(2 credits) P, S (2,0,0,0,0 for 12 weeks)
This course addresses legislation influencing PN practice, specific professional practice issues and ethical practice pertinent to PN practice in acute care environments. Collaborative practice with other health care team members and specifically the working partnership with RN’s in the acute care setting will be examined.
Prerequisite: PNUR 183
Co-requisites: PNUR 145, PNUR 146, PNUR 147, PNUR 148
PNUR 145 Professional Communication 4
(2 credits) P, S (2,0,0,0,0 for 12 weeks)
The focus of this course is on the advancement of professional communication within the acute care setting caring for clients across the lifespan. The practice of collaboration with health care team members and clients will be further developed.
Prerequisite: PNUR 183
Co-requisites: PNUR 144, PNUR 146, PNUR 147, PNUR 148
PNUR 146 Variations in Health 4
(3 credits) P, S (4.5,0,0,0,0 for 12 weeks)
This course focuses on pathophysiology and nursing care of clients across the lifespan experiencing acute disease and illness. Implications of the acute exacerbation of chronic illness will be addressed. Cultural diversity in healing practices will be explored as well as evidenced informed research and practice.
Prerequisite: PNUR 183
Co-requisites: PNUR 144, PNUR 145, PNUR 147, PNUR 148
PNUR 147 Health Promotion 4
(2 credits) P, S (2,0,0,0,0 for 12 weeks)
This course focuses on health promotion in the context of caring for clients experiencing an acute exacerbation of chronic illness or an acute episode of illness. Topics include preparing clients for discharge from care through teaching and learning of health promoting strategies.
Prerequisite: PNUR 183
Co-requisites: PNUR 144, PNUR 145, PNUR 146, PNUR 148
PNUR 148 Integrated Nursing Practice 4
(5 credits) P, S (7,0,8,0,0 for 12 weeks)
This course emphasizes the development of nursing skills aimed at promoting health and healing with individuals experiencing acute health challenges across the lifespan. A variety of approaches (e.g., simulation) will help learners build on theory and practice from previous courses to integrate new knowledge and skills relevant to the acute care setting.
Prerequisite: PNUR 183
Co-requisites: PNUR 144, PNUR 145, PNUR 146, PNUR 147
PNUR 150 Nursing Arts
(4 credits) P (108 Total hours class /lab)
This course emphasizes the development of practical nursing skills needed for the promotion of health and healing with clients in community, home and continuing care settings. The learner integrates theory from other courses to provide organized, safe and caring nursing interventions.
Pre or Co-requisites: PNUR 101, PNUR 110, PNUR 120, PNUR 130, PNUR 140
PNUR 151 Nursing Arts 1
(4 credits) F (108 Total hours class /lab)
This practical course emphasizes basic nursing skills that support health promotion. Students learn nursing assessment skills and nursing intervention aimed at promotion of independence, activity, comfort and basic personal care. Classroom and lab experiences integrate theory from other courses to provide organized, safe and caring nursing interventions.
Pre or Co-requisites: PNUR 101, PNUR 111, PNUR 121, PNUR 131, PNUR 141
PNUR 152 Nursing Arts 2
(4 credits) W (108 Total hours class /lab)
This practical course integrates theory from other courses and emphasizes the development of nursing competencies required to promote health and healing with the older adult. The student will learn and practice nursing assessment, planning and interventions aimed at the unique needs of the older client.
Prerequisite: PNUR 161
Pre or Co-requisites: PNUR 122, PNUR 132, PNUR 142
PNUR 153 Nursing Arts 3
(5 credits) P, F (36,0,51,0,48 Total over 10 weeks)
This practical course develops nursing competencies required to promote health and healing with individuals experiencing acute or episodic health challenges. The learner builds on theory and practice from Academic Terms 1 and 2 to integrate new knowledge and skills relevant to the acute care setting. Effective teaching/learning strategies are explored.
Prerequisite: PNUR 160, or PNUR 162
Pre or Co-requisites: PNUR 113, PNUR 123, PNUR 133
PNUR 160 Clinical Placement
(3 credits) S (0,0,0,0,30 for 3 weeks)
This clinical placement provides the learner with opportunities to integrate theory and skills learned in the Access semester. Students have an opportunity to work with individuals experiencing chronic health challenges. Students experience community placements, which may include residential care, community care, palliative care, ambulatory care and day care.
Prerequisites: PNUR 101, PNUR 110, PNUR 120, PNUR 130, PNUR 140, PNUR 150; or permission of Chair
PNUR 161 Clinical Placement 1
(3 credits) F (0,0,0,0,30 for 3 weeks)
This clinical placement provides the learner with opportunities to integrate theory and skills learned in Academic Term 1. Students have an opportunity to work with individuals experiencing chronic health challenges. Students experience community placements which may include residential care, community care, palliative care, ambulatory care and day care.
Prerequisites: PNUR 101, PNUR 111, PNUR 121, PNUR 131, PNUR 141, PNUR 151; or permission of Chair
PNUR 162 Clinical Placement 2
(6 credits) W (0,0,0,0,30 for 6 weeks)
This clinical placement experience provides an opportunity to integrate theory and skills learned in Academic Terms 1 and 2. The student works with older adults in diverse care settings, which may include adult day centres, intermediate care facilities, extended care facilities, special needs units for psycho geriatric care.
Prerequisites: PNUR 122, PNUR 132, PNUR 142, PNUR 152; or permission of Chair
PNUR 163 Clinical Placement 3
(6 credits) S , F (0,0,0,0,30 for 5 weeks)
This clinical placement provides an opportunity to integrate theory and skills learned in Academic Terms 1, 2 and 3. Students work with clients of all ages experiencing acute or episodic health challenges. Clients are selected based on acuity and complexity of care required. Partnership, collaboration and advocacy within health care team are emphasized.
Prerequisites: PNUR 113, PNUR 123, PNUR 133, PNUR 153; or permission of Chair
PNUR 164 Preceptorship
(6 credits) S, W (0,0,0,0,32 for 5 weeks)
During this practical experience learners make transition from role of student to graduate practical nurse. Students work closely with a preceptor who acts as facilitator and mentor in assisting student to gain insights, awareness and knowledge towards effectively functioning as practical nurse. A program instructor collaborates throughout the experience.
Prerequisite: PNUR 163
PNUR 181 Consolidated Practice Exp 1
(2 credits) P (0,0,0,30,0 for 3 weeks)
This first practice experience provides learners with an opportunity to integrate theory from Level 1 courses into practice with a focus on the healthy client. The role of the Practical Nurse, personal care skills, organization of care, focused assessment, beginning medication administration and professional communication are emphasized in this course.
Prerequisites: A minimum "C+" in PNUR 114, PNUR 115, PNUR 116, PNUR 117, PNUR 118, PNUR 119
PNUR 182 Consolidated Practice Exp 2
(3 credits) F (0,0,0,25,0 for 5 weeks)
This practice experience provides learners with the opportunity to integrate theory from Level I and II courses into practice. Learners will work with aging clients and/or those with chronic illness in residential care settings. Medication administration, nursing care, organization, comprehensive health assessment, wound care and introduction to leadership are emphasized in this course.
Prerequisites: A minimum of "C+" in PNUR 124, PNUR 125, PNUR 126, PNUR 127, PNUR 128, PNUR 129
PNUR 183 Consolidated Practice Exp 3
(2 credits) W (0,0,0,25,0 for 3 weeks)
This practice experience will introduce learners to community care settings and an opportunity to apply and adapt knowledge gained in Levels I, II, and III within a continuum of care for clients across the lifespan. Learners may gain experience through simulation and in a variety of community settings.
Prerequisites: A minimum of "C+" in PNUR 134, PNUR 135, PNUR 136, PNUR 137, PNUR 138
PNUR 184 Consolidated Practice Exp 4
(3 credits) P,S (0,0,0,25,0 for 8 weeks)
This practice experience provides learners with the opportunity to integrate theory from all courses into the role of the Practical Nurse in the acute care setting. Learners will consolidate knowledge and skills such as: post operative care, surgical wound management, intravenous therapy, focused assessment, and clinical decision-making in acute care settings.
Prerequisites: A minimum of "C+" in PNUR 144, PNUR 145, PNUR 146, PNUR 147, PNUR 148
PNUR 185 Transition to Preceptorship
(2 credits) F (30,0,0,0,0 for 1 week)
Transition to Preceptorship will prepare the learner for the final practice experience. Simulation experiences and self directed learning will provide the learner with increased competence and confidence in their final practice experience.
Prerequisite: PNUR 184
PNUR 186 Preceptorship
(3 credits) F (0,0,0,30,0 for 6 weeks)
This final practice experience provides an opportunity for learners to demonstrate integration and consolidation of knowledge, skills, and abilities within the realities of the workplace, and become practice ready.
Prerequisite: PNUR 185
