Basic pharmacologic principles and the pharmacologic actions of the major drug classes will be discussed in relation to physiologic systems. Emphasis will be on the application of these agents to advanced nursing practice. Theoretical and scientific basis for using pharmacotherapeutic principles in the treatment and management of conditions within the scope of advanced nursing practice will be highlighted. The use of clinical protocols will also be explored.
This course will build upon research methodology coursework at the first degree level. The course will further focus on application of the research process to generate new knowledge to provide high quality health care, initiate change to improve nursing education, practice and support clinical decision-making. The course will emphasize the use of appropriate software and information systems and databases for the storage and retrieval of data. A strong conceptual framework linking research with practice, theory, knowledge and philosophy will be stressed.
This course builds upon the foundation assessment skills acquired at the Bachelor’s or in clinical practice. Emphasis will be placed on the advanced skills necessary for advanced nursing practice in assessing the health status of clients across the life span with a focus on health promotion and maintenance. Content will include techniques for comprehensive, holistic health assessment as well as focused assessment for common health problems. The process whereby the advanced nurse utilizes comprehensive physical, psychological, and cultural assessment across the life span to gather specific data relevant to common health problems is demonstrated. The course will include 2 hours of lecture and 3 hours practical experience per week.
This course builds upon the knowledge of pathophysiology acquired at the basic level and through clinical practice; this course will focus on the application of advanced principles of pathophysiology to the diagnosis and treatment of conditions occurring across the life span and within the scope of advanced nursing practice. Additionally, appropriate screening and diagnostic laboratory evaluative methods will also be examined.
The transition from the professional nursing role to an advanced nursing practice role will be examined in this course. Legal, ethical and advanced practice issues will be emphasized. Analysis and synthesis of content regarding political, legal, socioeconomic, and technological factors that affect the advanced practice role will be emphasized to provide the student with a clear understanding of the nursing profession and advanced nursing practice roles. The need for the graduate to work effectively in interdisciplinary relationships or partnerships, recognizing the uniqueness and similarities among the various roles, is also a critical element that will be discussed.
This course will examine concepts and issues that influence advanced nursing practice such as health teaching, policy development, programme planning, environmental health concerns, family relationships, cultural influences and selected health care problems. Professional issues and strategies which can facilitate the development of the nursing profession will be examined. Consideration will be given to selected variables influencing the development and resolution of issues. Additionally, it will focus on health care economics and policy analysis of current health care problems and issues. The student will examine the role of the advanced nurse practitioner in health policy formulation and political action. Advanced problem solving and decision making theories and concepts will be essential components of this course.
Student will be introduced to the nature and uses of theories and the process of theory construction. Selected concepts, theories and philosophies for guiding advanced nursing practice in various healthcare settings will be examined. The student will also critique, evaluate, and use the theory with emphasis on implications for nursing. The interrelationships among theory, practice and research will be emphasized.
Master of Nursing programme is to train nurses with advanced knowledge and skills to perform advanced Nursing roles in direct patient care delivery, Nursing Education, Nursing Administration and Nursing Research at the local, national and international levels.
By the end of the programme, the student should be able to:
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take up leadership roles in nursing and health care delivery in general.
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demonstrate high levels of intellectual and analytical competencies to function effectively in nursing education.
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develop advanced clinical nurse practitioners who will be able to deliver evidence based nursing care
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acquire requisite foundation to undertake doctoral degree programmes.
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work within complex organizational and political systems at local, national and international levels.
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acquire advanced knowledge and practical skills and attitudes in nursing administration to enable them recognize the total health needs of individuals, families and communities.
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exhibit administrative and leadership skills in managing health care units within the framework of the national health policy.
The demand for nursing services is ever increasing in Ghana and other parts of the world. Our students are employed in public and private health facilities like hospitals, clinics, home health care services, schools, military and police health facilities in Ghana and other countries. Other employment avenues include Nursing and other health training institutions, health research centres, public/community health delivery services and workplace health care systems.
To qualify for admission an applicant:
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Must have obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing OR its equivalent in a related field (e.g. B. ED Health Sciences Education) with at least Second Class Lower Division from a recognized institution.
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Should be a registered nurse in good standing with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Ghana (NMC) or an equivalent approved by the NMC.
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Must pass a selection interview.