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Philosophy and Purpose
Philosophy
The philosophy of
the nursing programs is consistent with the mission, goals and
objectives of The Alabama College System. The programs provide
curricula to develop the knowledge, skills, and abilities
necessary for entry level employment in practical and
professional nursing. The nursing faculty endorses the following
beliefs:
Maslow's theory is
the foundation for the program of learning. According to Maslow,
all individuals have similar needs arranged in a hierarchy with
higher needs emerging as basic physiological needs are met.
Individuals are unique biological, psychosocial and spiritual
beings who strive to meet holistic needs. Each individual has
the right to make informed decisions about one's health in a
technologically changing society. Society, a complex system that
influences culture, values, and beliefs, provides direction and
meaning to an individual's experiences throughout the lifespan.
Health, which is
individually perceived, exists when needs are met. Ranging on a
continuum from highest level wellness to death, health is a
dynamic state. The goals of health care are to promote,
maintain, and restore health.
Nursing is an art,
as well as, a science in which the holistic needs of the
individual are met through utilization of the nursing process in
a variety of settings. The nursing process incorporates
scientific principles, interpersonal and psychomotor skills. The
practice of nursing takes place in an ever changing health care
system and requires caring, critical thinking, competency,
legal/ethical accountability, dedication to an evolving body of
knowledge, life long learning and client advocacy.
The
teaching-learning process is a shared responsibility between
faculty and students where faculty serve as facilitators of
learning. The successful teaching-learning process requires an
environment that promotes learning, considers the needs of the
individual, and provides opportunities for student participation
and educational goal attainment. The learning process is based
on principles of critical thinking and is enhanced by the
presentation of information from simple to complex. Learning is
achieved when there is evidence of a change in behavior within
the cognitive, affective, and/or psychomotor domains.
Individuals have the right to achieve self-actualization and
society provides educational opportunities.
Nursing education is
a learner-centered process which combines general education and
nursing courses to prepare the individual for the practice of
nursing. Incorporating a program of learning, a variety of
instructional methodologies, and available resources, nursing
education fosters competency, accountability and continued
professional development. Learning is a life long process which
promotes professionalism and is beneficial for the learner and
society.
Threads Integrated
Throughout Curriculum
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Critical Thinking
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Communication
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Nutrition
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Pharmacology
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Cultural Diversity
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Lifespan
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Pathophysiology
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Technology
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Teaching / Learning
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Legal / Ethical
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Roles of the Nurse
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Purpose
The purpose of the
Practical Nursing Program of WCCS is to offer educational
opportunities that allow individuals to complete their goals of
becoming licensed practical nurses prepared to practice safe,
ethical, noncomplex bedside nursing in a structured care
environment under the direct supervision of the registered nurse
and/or the physician or dentist. The program prepares men and
women to practice as licensed practical nurses within the
guidelines established by the Alabama Board of Nursing after
completing the program and successfully taking the National
Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).
The program is offered in a three
or four semester curriculum. Admissions are every Spring and Fall semesters.
Upon completion of the program, graduates may apply to the
Alabama Board of Nursing for approval to take the NCLEX-PN. The
program also acts as a direct line from the NA/HHA Program to
the ADN Upward Mobility Nursing Program at WCCS via the Nursing
Career Ladder.
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