Nursing and Health Occupations

Higher Education Center at Otay Mesa

Dean: Silvia Cornejo, M.A.

Department Chair: Jamie O'Connor-Florez, M.S.N.

Director: Samantha A. Girard Ph.D. RN

Office: 4502, (619) 482-6352

Map: https://goo.gl/maps/eEXhVUZXRY32

General Description

Nursing can be described as both a science and an art. Through critical thinking, exemplified in the nursing process, nurses use their judgment and experience together with a patient’s biological, physical, social, psychological, and behavioral needs. This ensures that every person receives the best possible care regardless of who they are or where they seek care. Registered nurses form the backbone of United States Healthcare system and provide critical health care to the public wherever it is needed. It is the duty of a Registered Nurse to protect and advocate for the public good.

Key Responsibilities

Perform physical exams and health histories before making critical decisions
Provide health promotion, counseling and education
Administer medications and other personalized interventions
Coordinate care, in collaboration with a wide array of healthcare professionals

Career Options

Below is a sample of the career options available for the nursing major. Career options require an associate degree at a minimum, some require higher levels of academic preparation: licensed vocational nurse, registered nurse, nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, nurse administrator, nurse educator, nurse researcher and scientist. Nurses practice in many settings such as hospitals, extended care facilities, primary and specialty care clinicas, homes, community settings, and in the military. They may specialize in caring for specific age groups such as children or those persons who are advanced in age. They may also specialize in certain areas such as medical, surgical, psychiatric, critical or emergency room care, obstetrics, pediatrics, community and population health, or the operating room.

Associate in Science Degree

Southwestern College Mission Statement

Southwestern Community College District is the premier public institution of higher education in Southern San Diego County that serves a diverse community of students by providing quality academic programs, comprehensive student support services that ensure equitable access, and clear pathways to student success.

Southwestern Community College District promotes learning and success to prepare students to become critical thinkers and engaged life-long learners/global citizens. The District is committed to continuous improvements through the use of data-informed planning, implementation, and evaluation.

Southwestern Community College District utilizes a variety of instructional modalities to provide educational and career opportunities in the following areas: Associate degree and certificate programs, transfer, professional, technical and career advancement, foundational skills, personal enrichment, and continuing education.

Governing Board approved March 10, 2020

Southwestern College Associate Degree Nursing Mission Statement

Southwestern Community College Associate Degree Nursing Program serves a diverse community of students and provides educational preparation for the graduate in the role of a Registered Nurse and as professional member of the healthcare community.

The Nursing Program provides educational opportunities that enable our students to progress from a novice level of expertise to a graduate level of expertise in nursing skills, clinical reasoning, and theoretical preparation. The program promotes personal enrichment, community service and transfer for advanced nursing educational opportunities.

The Nursing Program promotes student learning and success by committing to a continuous improvement plan utilizing evidence-based practice which includes assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation. The program celebrates successes as our students’ progress in the program, in their advanced degrees and as key members of the Nursing profession.

The Associate Degree Nursing Program Philosophy

The associate degree nursing faculty advocates the mission and goals of Southwestern College and the ADN program; furthermore, the faculty is committed to the following beliefs, which guide the nursing curriculum:

Beliefs About Man, Health, and Illness

Man is a unique individual with inseparable bio-psycho-social-spiritual needs.
Man’s culture and ability to communicate needs are an integral component in health and wellness throughout the life span.
Health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
Health is on a continuum of maximum wellness to maximum illness throughout the life span.

Beliefs About Nursing

Nursing is both an art and a science. The science of nursing is the knowledge base for the care that is given; the art of nursing is the skilled application of that knowledge to help others reach maximum function and quality of life throughout the life span.
Nursing is a profession that utilizes special skills and knowledge to provide safe care to the whole person in health and illness and in a variety of practice settings.
Nursing requires critical reasoning skills that focus on health promotion, illness prevention, restoring health, and facilitating coping while utilizing therapeutic communication methods.
Nursing care is determined by man’s human responses resulting from changes in the structure and/or function of all body systems.

Beliefs About Students, Faculty, and Education

Students are individuals with unique combinations of ethnic and cultural backgrounds, learning abilities, and support systems.
Optimal student learning takes place in a safe environment that is supportive, provides frequent feedback, as well as strategies for success.
Nursing faculty believe that learning is a lifelong process involving external changes in behavior and internal changes in thought process and attitudes. Nursing faculty are committed to their own lifelong learning and maintain currency in theory and skills through course work, CE opportunities, conferences and through their own experiential learning as a practitioner in the clinical setting.
Nursing faculty believe that the role of the faculty is to facilitate student learning by providing instruction, clinical experiences, resources, counseling, and guidance.
Nursing education incorporates knowledge from the humanities and the behavioral, physical, and natural sciences.
Nursing education remains current and incorporates such resources as The National Patient Safety Goals and Institute of Medicine Reports (as it relates to nursing) as references for both the faculty and the students.
Nursing faculty are committed to program core values that are reflected in each course: communication, clinical reasoning, cultural diversity, health promotion/illness prevention, life span development, nursing theory/skills, roles of the nurse, safety, evidence-based practice and quality improvement.

The Associate Degree Nursing program serves as the beginning preparation for the registered nurse with identified competencies, critical thinking, supervision, leadership, and delegation. Various nursing roles are also emphasized as the student nurse prepares for state licensure.

The Associate Degree Nursing program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400
Atlanta, GA 30326
Phone: (404) 975-5000

How to Apply

Applicants must be admitted to the College and have a Southwestern College Student ID. In addition to the College application, a special application for the program is required. Program information and application forms are available on the Nursing program website at https://www.swccd.edu/programs-and-academics/health-and-medical-occupations/nursing/associate-degree-nursing-adn/index.aspx, Applications for each program will be accepted after prerequisite courses and other requirements are met. Students accepted into the nursing programs are subject to further screening to determine eligibility to be admitted into the program.

An individual evaluation will be made for students wishing to transfer from a nursing program or to receive credit for previous nursing education.

Special Instructions

Students enrolled in the nursing programs are required to provide their own transportation to off-campus clinical agencies and for home visits and are required to have automobile insurance to access some clinical facilities. Proof of health insurance is required to participate in clinical. A fee for malpractice insurance and for other requirements are charged for each year of the program, as well as a minimal fee for supplies. Students are also responsible for purchasing certain equipment such as a stethoscope, uniform, and appropriate footwear.

CPR/BLS certification: students are required to be certified prior to admission and to maintain certification throughout the program. American Heart Association (AHA) certification course for Healthcare Providers is required.

To obtain optimal admission points applicants should consult the multi-criteria point system guide: https://www.swccd.edu/programs-and-academics/career-education/health/registered-nurse/_files/multicriteria-points-formula.pdf

A grade of “C” or better is required in all nursing courses for progression and satisfactory completion (minimum 78% is a C). Progress in the nursing program is dependent upon completion of nursing courses in the prescribed sequence as outlined for each program. Students will not be permitted to progress to the next semester until all previous semester nursing courses are completed. Nursing courses may be repeated only once.

Associate in Science Degree
Registered Nursing

Applicants will be accepted under the multi-criteria point system as mandated by the State Chancellor’s Office. In order to apply and be placed on the priority list for the ADN program, applicants must document the following:

Basic science prerequisites Option 1 (BIOL 260, BIOL 261, and BIOL 265) must be completed with a cumulative GPA of 2.5. Foreign transcripts not submitted at time of application may not be used to meet program or graduation requirements. Required science courses taken at Southwestern College have prerequisites including college-level biology, chemistry, and algebra courses or credit for the appropriate college-level examination (CLEP)
Recency: Anatomy must be completed within 10 years, MIcrobiology and Physiology must be completed within 7 years of program start date.
Basic nursing skills: students who have an active, unexpired CNA, EMT, or equivalent certification will earn more application points. Certification requires passing a standardized exam. A Certificate of Completion is not a certification and will not earn application points.
Graduation from a U.S. high school or satisfactory score on the GED or evidence of other high school equivalency certificate or a degree from a U.S. accredited institution.
College-level reading ability as evidenced by a satisfactory result on the Southwestern College Reading Assessment process, earning a “C” or better in RDG 158, ENGL 115 or equivalent reading course; equivalency documented by approved petition; or college transcript showing an earned associate or bachelor’s degree from a U.S. accredited institution.
Math proficiency as evidenced by completion of MATH 119 or equivalent, earning a “C” or better in MATH 119 or higher-numbered math course with intermediate algebra as a prerequisite, or equivalent as documented by an approved petition.
Passing the TEAS test with a result of 62 or higher; the test may not be repeated if a 62 is earned on the first attempt. Recency requirement: TEAS must be taken within the three (3) years prior to applying to the nursing program. Refer to Nursing website.
Other criteria i.e. working/volunteering in healthcare, receiving financial aid, being a veteran, holding a previous degree, etc.
Refer to nursing website for information regarding military credit for course work.

Note: College level Math or above and ENGL 115 are required for graduation from Southwestern College.

Before a space in the nursing program can be offered, applicants must verify completion of the series of vaccinations for a variety of communicable diseases. Healthcare facilities require specific vaccinations and may or may not accept declinations for medical or other non-medical reasons. The nursing program cannot guarantee a student clinical placement if a student declines specific immunizations that a healthcare facility requires. Please read the application which outlines all of the vaccination requirements.

Students who have been accepted into the program must meet the following conditions: attend a mandatory scheduled program orientation, submit a completed physical examination form including medical history and current medical conditions for which they are under a healthcare providers care, evidence of required immunizations, tuberculosis screening, CPR certification, and provide evidence of payment of malpractice insurance premium and ATI testing fees. Accepted students are required to complete an online background check and drug screening prior to enrollment into the program. The background check and drug screening are mandated by the policies of the hospitals/clinical sites for all health occupation programs faculty and students. Anyone with background check issues (includes misdemeanors and felonies) may not be eligible for admission to the nursing program. Many of the hospital systems are now refusing to take students with any background check issues. Each student situation will be evaluated on an individual basis as they complete the background check. The student must provide a urine sample for drug testing per hospital request. If the urine sample is dilute, the student WILL NOT be eligible for acceptance into the program. Failure to disclose medical information on the physical form may result in a program dismissal or may disqualify a student from entering or progressing in the nursing program.

All ADN, LVN-ADN, and VN students must pass the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS). This is a diagnostic test that covers basic math, reading and science. Students may prepare for this test by going to the ATI testing site (www.atitesting.com/), then go to Assessments; go to Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS). Under the multi-criteria point system, a student will earn points for the first attempt only but may remediate. Refer to Nursing website.

In addition to the above costs, students are required to pay for assessment and exam services provided by ATI Testing. These diagnostic tests are administered periodically throughout the nursing program. The test identifies knowledge gaps for the student to enable them to seek appropriate assistance during the program. Periodic additional tests must be passed before the student progresses in the program. Remediation is available for every student. A non-credit “Success in Nursing” course is encouraged for all students entering the nursing program (NC1033).

Some financial assistance is available through Financial Aid. Application for assistance should be made early (preferably by April or May for new students) in the Financial Aid office. It is recommended that the student not work more than 20 hours per week.

Upon completion of degree requirements, the graduate is eligible to apply to take the National Council Licensure examination for Registered Nursing (NCLEX-RN). The Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) may refuse licensure to individuals who have been convicted of crimes and/or certain misdemeanors. Further information may be obtained from the BRN at P.O. Box 944210, Sacramento, CA 94244-2100. Program information regarding national accreditation may also be obtained from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, 3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400, Atlanta, GA 30326.

Degree/Certificate Options
Degree/Certificate Options	Major Code
Associate in Arts Degree: Transfer Preparation
Preparation for Allied Health Programs	B1330
Associate in Science Degree: Career/Technical
Nursing	02360
Surgical Technology	02345
Nursing, Vocational	02390
Certificates of Achievement
Nursing, Vocational	02392
Certificates of Proficiency
Central Service Technology	02347
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)	02371
Operating Room Nursing	A2361

Entrance into the any of the above Nursing programs have special application requirements and deadlines. For more information, please visit www.swccd.edu/nursing.

Consult with a counselor to develop a Student Education Plan (SEP), which lists the courses necessary to achieve your academic goal.

Note: In the ADN, VN, ST, and ORN programs, a minimum grade of “C” is required in each course for progression and satisfactory completion. Nursing courses may be repeated no more than one time with a maximum of one re-entry to the program.

Courses must be completed in sequence as stated.

Faculty

ADN

Zaydie Feria-Bataller, M.S.N.
zferia@swccd.edu

Sara Heim, M.S.
sheim@swccd.edu

Evangeline Howard, Ph.D.
ehoward@swccd.edu

Eric Hughes, M.S.N.
ehughes@swccd.edu

Sophia Jimenez, M.S.N.
sjimenez@swccd.edu

Mary Livingston, M.S.N.
mlivingston@swccd.edu

Sandra Peppard, Ph.D.
speppard@swccd.edu

Eileen Rodriguez, D.N.P.
erodriguez@swccd.edu

Emeline Yabut, M.S.
eyabut@swccd.edu

CNA

Jamie O'Connor-Florez, M.S.N.
jflorez@swccd.edu

ST

Evangeline Fulgencio, B.S.
efulgencio@swccd.edu

John Hammersla, B.S.
jhammersla@swccd.edu

VN

Alana Lozada, M.S.
alozada@swccd.edu

Angelia Monroy, M.S.N.
amonroy@swccd.edu

ADN 26

NATIONAL COUNCIL LICENSURE EXAMINATION

3 UNITS

Pass/No Pass Only

Recommended Preparation: ADN 225 or equivalent.

Limitation on Enrollment: Enrollment is limited to Nursing students in their fourth semester and nursing school graduates.

Lecture 3 hours

Offered: ALL

Provides the nursing student with concepts and techniques necessary to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). Focuses on the application of critical thinking. Emphasizes theory and skills necessary for the new registered nurse to provide competent safe care. [ND]

ADN 106

DOSAGE CALCULATIONS FOR NURSES

2 UNITS

Grade Only

Lecture 2 hours

Offered: ALL

Focuses on math review for dosage calculations, conversion between different systems of measurement, dosage calculation and measurement, drug orders and labels, and intravenous calculations. Emphasizes techniques of safe medication administration. Examines special considerations for administration of medications to elderly and pediatric patients. [D; CSU]

ADN 111A

PATHOPHYSIOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY I

2 UNITS

Grade Only

Prerequisite: BIOL 260, BIOL 261, and BIOL 265, or equivalent.

Corequisite: ADN 112 and ADN 112L.

Lecture 2 hours

Offered: FALL

Provides pathophysiology and pharmacological treatment of the neurological, musculoskeletal, respiratory, cardiovascular, endocrine, and urinary systems. Also includes fluids, electrolytes ,and acid-base disturbances. Focuses on specific diseases and disorders with selected drugs, their mechanism of action, dosage, effects, route of administration, side effects, contraindications, and classification. Emphasizes medications as they relate to disease pathology. [D; CSU]

ADN 111B

PATHOPHYSIOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY II

2 UNITS

Grade Only

Prerequisite: ADN 111A or equivalent.

Corequisite: ADN 113 and 113L.

Lecture 2 hours

Offered: SPRING

Covers the pathophysiology and pharmacological treatment of diseases of the reproductive, neurosensory, ENT, integumentary, immune systems, gastrointestinal systems, and nutrition. Includes mental disorders and their pharmacological treatment, and illicit drugs. Reviews cultural and age specific aspects of the medications and emphasizes critical thinking. [D; CSU]

ADN 112

FOUNDATIONS OF NURSING PRACTICE

4 UNITS

Grade Only

Corequisite: ADN 112L.

Limitation on Enrollment: Enrollment is limited to students in the RN program.

Lecture 4 hours

Offered: FALL

Instructs students on meeting the basic needs of patients, patients with medical-surgical dysfunction, develop confidence in critical thinking, utilize the nursing process, physical assessment, documentation, medication administration, legal and ethical considerations, interdisciplinary communication, teaching and learning, and cultural considerations. Emphasis in adult-geriatric populations. [D; CSU]

ADN 112L

FOUNDATIONS OF NURSING PRACTICE LAB

4 UNITS

Pass/No Pass Only

Fee: $65

Corequisite: ADN 112.

Limitation on Enrollment: Enrollment is limited to students in the RN program.

Laboratory 12 hours

Offered: FALL

Applies fundamental nursing knowledge, critical thinking, psychomotor skills, and utilizes the nursing process to deliver safe, effective care to diverse adult-geriatric populations in various clinical settings. [D; CSU]

ADN 113

MATERNAL NURSING

2 UNITS

Grade Only

Prerequisite: ADN 112 and ADN 112L, or equivalent.

Corequisite: ADN 113L.

Lecture 2 hours

Offered: SPRING

Creates a plan of nursing care for childbearing patients and families, develop and understanding of normal and abnormal physiological findings for obstetric patients, neonates, and families. Applies concepts of standardized communication tools to advocate for culturally appropriate patient-centered care. Identifies nursing priorities using critical thinking and clinical judgment. [D; CSU]

ADN 113L

MATERNAL NURSING LABORATORY

2 UNITS

Pass/No Pass Only

Fee: $65

Prerequisite: ADN 112 and ADN 112L, or equivalent.

Corequisite: ADN 113.

Laboratory 6 hours

Offered: SPRING

Applies nursing knowledge, critical thinking, demonstrates physical assessments, and utilizes the nursing process to deliver safe, effective care to diverse childbearing families in various settings. [D;CSU]

ADN 114

NURSING SUPERVISION AND LEADERSHIP I

2 UNITS

Grade Only

Recommended Concurrent Enrollment: ADN 223.

Prerequisite: ADN 112 and ADN 221, or equivalent.

Lecture 2 hours

Offered: SPRING

Introduces basic nursing concepts of leadership and management skills. Emphasizes key concepts related to leadership and management, including delegation, strategic planning, staffing and scheduling, conflict resolution, team building, legal and ethical issues, managing personal/personnel problems and leading change. [D; CSU]

ADN 115

TRANSITION TO ASSOCIATE DEGREE NURSING

1 UNIT

Grade Only

Fee: $65

Corequisite: ADN 115L.

Limitation on Enrollment: Enrollment is limited to students with an LVN License.

Lecture 1 hour

Offered: SPRING

Facilitates transition of LVN into the ADN program. Includes an orientation to ADN policies, procedures, and curriculum. Emphasizes role change, nursing process, evidence-based practice, supervision and delegation, professional communication, and group dynamics. [D; CSU]

ADN 115L

TRANSITION TO AS LABORATORY

1 UNIT

Pass/No Pass Only

Corequisite: ADN 115.

Laboratory 3 hours

Offered: SPRING

Introduces a clinical course that facilitates transition of the LVN to the RN role. Provides clinical experience that emphasizes the nursing process, management of care, and working as part of a multidisciplinary team. [D; CSU]

ADN 116

ADN PRACTICUM

2 UNITS

Pass/No Pass Only

Prerequisite: ADN 112L and ADN 113L, or equivalent.

Laboratory 6 hours

Offered: SUMMER

Laboratory course providing hospital experiences with variety of acute and chronic health conditions. Students will utilize the nursing process to assist patients in restoring optimal health functions and illness prevention. [D; CSU]

ADN 117

ADVANCED CRITICAL THINKING IN NURSING

1 UNIT

Grade Only

Limitation on Enrollment: Enrollment is limited to students currently enrolled in the VN program or ADN program.

Lecture 1 hour

Offered: SUMMER

Designed for nursing students to improve their critical thinking skills. Includes concepts related to critical thinking, needs analysis, case study analysis, critical thinking applications, and test-taking strategies for nursing. [D; CSU]

ADN 118

PSYCH MENTAL HEALTH NURSING

1 UNIT

Grade Only

Corequisite: ADN 118L.

Lecture 1 hour

Offered: FALL

Uses the nursing process in planning care for patients with mental health disorders, identifies resources and ways of coping to plan nursing interventions. Examines the nurse's therapeutic role in maintaining and enhancing mental health, and to meet the needs of persons with emotional and/or cognitive abilities that impair day-to-day functioning. [D; CSU]

ADN 118L

PSYCH MENTAL HEALTH NURSING LABORATORY

2 UNITS

Pass/No Pass Only

Corequisite: ADN 118.

Laboratory 6 hours

Offered: FALL

Provides experience in acute inpatient psychiatric facilities and various community-based mental health programs. Utilizes the nursing process in providing client-centered care. [D; CSU]

ADN 119

PEDIATRIC NURSING

2 UNITS

Grade Only

Prerequisite: ADN 112 and ADN 112L, or equivalent.

Corequisite: ADN 119L.

Lecture 2 hours

Offered: SPRING

Recognizes concepts influencing growth and development of children and adolescents across the health-wellness continuum and describes nursing care of pediatric patients and their family unit. [D; CSU]

ADN 119L

PEDIATRIC NURSING LAB

2 UNITS

Pass/No Pass Only

Prerequisite: ADN 112 and ADN 112L, or equivalent.

Corequisite: ADN 119.

Laboratory 6 hours

Offered: SPRING

Applies nursing knowledge, uses critical thinking, demonstrates assessments, and utilizes the nursing process to deliver safe, effective care to diverse pediatric populations in various settings. [D; CSU]

ADN 150

PHYSICAL ASSESSMENT

2 UNITS

Pass/No Pass Only

Limitation on Enrollment: Enrollment is limited to registered nurses and student nurses.

Lecture 2 hours

Offered: ALL

Prepares the student to apply the nursing process while conducting a physical assessment of all body systems on an adult patient. [D; CSU]

ADN 212

ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT OF THE CRITICALLY ILL PATIENT

2 UNITS

Grade Only

Limitation on Enrollment: Enrollment is limited to registered nurses and student nurses.

Lecture 2 hours

Offered: SUMMER

Introduces nursing students and registered nurses to the concepts of nursing care of the critically ill patient. Describes principles of care for patients in the emergency room, intensive care unit, and telemetry units. Covers advanced assessment, electrocardiogram interpretation, and hemodynamic monitoring. [D; CSU]

ADN 221

ADULT NURSING

5 UNITS

Grade Only

Corequisite: ADN 221L.

Lecture 5 hours

Offered: FALL

Emphasizes the use of the nursing process to assist adult patients/clients in the promotion of wellness and treatment of illnesses. Includes nursing care of body systems and psychiatric conditions. [D; CSU]

ADN 221L

ADULT NURSING LABORATORY

5 UNITS

Pass/No Pass Only

Fee: $65

Corequisite: ADN 221.

Laboratory 15 hours

Offered: FALL

Introduces a clinical course that focuses on adult nursing care. Provides clinical experiences that include psychiatric, acute medical and surgical settings, home health, ambulatory clinics, and community facilities. [D; CSU]

ADN 223

GERONTOLOGY

2 UNITS

Grade Only

Prerequisite: ADN 221 or equivalent.

Corequisite: ADN 223L.

Lecture 2 hours

Offered: SPRING

Introduces the normal aging process, health problems common in aging and nursing practices and interventions for the aging client in a variety of settings. Includes demographics, legal/ethical issues, effects of multiple chronic illness, and socio-economic status as it effects the elderly. [D; CSU]

ADN 223L

GERONTOLOGY LABORATORY

4 UNITS

Pass/No Pass Only

Fee: $45

Corequisite: ADN 223.

Laboratory 12 hours

Offered: SPRING

Provides a companion laboratory class for ADN 223. Focuses on leadership and gerontology. The laboratory class is at a variety of clinical facilities. [D; CSU]

ADN 225

NURSING SUPERVISION AND LEADERSHIP II: PRECEPTORSHIP

2 UNITS

Pass/No Pass Only

Prerequisite: ADN 221 and ADN 221L, or equivalent.

Laboratory 6 hours

Offered: SPRING

Introduces role transition from student to graduate nurse via a clinical course that includes patient care assignments utilizing all nursing skills and demonstrates graduate level clinical judgment. [D; CSU]

ADN 290

ASSOCIATE DEGREE NURSING WORK EXPERIENCE I

1-4 UNITS

Pass/No Pass Only

Recommended Concurrent Enrollment: Enrollment in one other class directly related to the Associate Degree Nursing major in order to apply learned theory in a practical hands-on setting through an internship class.

Limitation on Enrollment: Declared Associate Degree Nursing major.

Laboratory 12 hours

Offered: ALL

Introduces principles and skills acquired in Associate Degree Nursing majors to on-the-job assignments. One unit of credit is granted for every 54 hours of work experience. Credit may be accrued at the rate of 1 to 4 units per semester for a maximum of fourteen units. The job supervisor and instructor will evaluate each student's job performance. [D; CSU]

ADN 290A

ASSOCIATE DEGREE NURSING WORK EXPERIENCE I

1 UNIT

Pass/No Pass Only

Recommended Concurrent Enrollment: ADN 290.

Lecture 1 hour

Offered: ALL

Identifies and discusses basic-level principles related to a variety of patient care problems using the nursing process as a guideline to be applied to the clinical setting. [D; CSU]

ADN 291

ASSOCIATE DEGREE NURSING WORK EXPERIENCE II

1-4 UNITS

Pass/No Pass Only

Prerequisite: ADN 290 or equivalent.

Limitation on Enrollment: Declared Associate Degree Nursing major.

Laboratory 12 hours

Offered: ALL

Applies beginning-level principles and skills acquired in Associate Degree Nursing majors to on-the-job assignments. One unit of credit is granted for every 54 hours of work experience. Credit may be accrued at the rate of 1 to 4 units per semester for a maximum of fourteen units. The job supervisor and instructor will evaluate each student's job performance. [D; CSU]

ADN 291A

ASSOCIATE DEGREE NURSING WORK EXPERIENCE II

1 UNIT

Pass/No Pass Only

Recommended Concurrent Enrollment: ADN 291.

Lecture 1 hour

Offered: ALL

Describes and interprets beginning-level principles related to a variety of patient care problems using the nursing process as a guideline to be applied to the clinical setting. [D; CSU]

ADN 292

ASSOCIATE DEGREE NURSING WORK EXPERIENCE III

1-4 UNITS

Pass/No Pass Only

Prerequisite: ADN 291 or equivalent.

Limitation on Enrollment: Declared Associate Degree Nursing major.

Laboratory 12 hours

Offered: ALL

Provides intermediate-level principles and skills acquired in Associate Degree Nursing majors to on-the-job assignments. One unit of credit is granted for every 54 hours of work experience. Credit may be accrued at the rate of 1 to 4 units per semester for a maximum of fourteen units. The job supervisor and instructor will evaluate each student's job performance. [D; CSU]

ADN 292A

ASSOCIATE DEGREE NURSING WORK EXPERIENCE III

1 UNIT

Pass/No Pass Only

Recommended Concurrent Enrollment: ADN 292.

Lecture 1 hour

Offered: ALL

Describes and analyzes intermediate-level principles related to a variety of patient care problems using the nursing process as a guideline to be applied to the clinical setting. [D; CSU]

ADN 293

ASSOCIATE DEGREE NURSING WORK EXPERIENCE IV

1-4 UNITS

Pass/No Pass Only

Prerequisite: ADN 292 or equivalent.

Limitation on Enrollment: Declared Associate Degree Nursing major.

Laboratory 12 hours

Offered: ALL

Covers advanced-level principles and skills acquired in Associate Degree Nursing majors to on-the-job assignments. One unit of credit is granted for every 54 hours of work experience. Credit may be accrued at the rate of 1 to 4 units per semester for a maximum of fourteen units. The job supervisor and instructor will evaluate each student's job performance. [D; CSU]

ADN 293A

ASSOCIATE DEGREE NURSING WORK EXPERIENCE IV

1 UNIT

Pass/No Pass Only

Recommended Concurrent Enrollment: ADN 293.

Lecture 1 hour

Offered: ALL

Assesses and evaluates advanced-level principles related to a variety of patient care problems using the nursing process as a guideline to be applied to the clinical setting. [D; CSU]

ADN 299

INDEPENDENT STUDY

1-3 UNITS

Pass/No Pass or Grade is Allowed

Limitation on Enrollment: Eligibility for independent study.

Lecture 3 hours

Offered: ALL

Individual study and/or clinical laboratory experience in some area of nursing of particular interest to the student. [D; CSU]

CNA 20

CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT (CNA)

5.5 UNITS

Grade Only

Corequisite: CNA 20L.

Lecture 5.50 hours

Offered: ALL

Provides theory and practical application of skills needed to function as a certified nursing assistant in a long-term care facility. Focuses on entry-level skills for high quality bedside patient care and enhances awareness of career opportunities in health care. [ND]

CNA 20L

CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT LAB

3 UNITS

Pass/No Pass Only

Fee: $40

Corequisite: CNA 20.

Laboratory 9 hours

Offered: ALL

Functions as the companion laboratory class for CNA 20. Emphasizes long-term care nursing experiences in clinical settings. [ND]

CNA 21

ACUTE CARE NURSING ASSISTANT

3 UNITS

Grade Only

Recommended Preparation: RDG 56 or equivalent or through the Southwestern College multiple measures placement processes.

Prerequisite: CNA 20 or equivalent.

Corequisite: CNA 21L.

Lecture 3 hours

Offered: FALL, SPRING

Prepares the long-term care nursing assistant to function in the acute care setting. Follows the California state approved Acute Care Nurse Assistant model curriculum. Includes disease processes of various body systems, surgical procedures, related treatments, and responsibilities of the acute care CNA. [ND] (Same as: NC 521)

CNA 21L

ACUTE CARE NURSING ASSISTANT LAB

1 UNIT

Pass/No Pass Only

Fee: $12

Corequisite: CNA 21.

Laboratory 3 hours

Offered: FALL, SPRING

Provides companion clinical experience for CNA 21. Emphasizes care of the patient in acute care medical-surgical, orthopedic, rehab, cardiac, and pediatric settings. [ND] (Same as: NC 522)

ORN 209

BASIC PERIOPERATIVE NURSING

9 UNITS

Grade Only

Fee: $140

Corequisite: ORN 211L.

Limitation on Enrollment: Registered Nurse License or graduate nurse.

Lecture 8 hours, laboratory 3 hours

Offered: FALL

Provides opportunities for the Registered Nurse seeking employment in the operating room. Introduces the guidelines from the Association of Operating Room Nurses that includes: aseptic technique, staff and patient safety, surgical management, consent, surgical high risk factors, sentinel events, and professional issues. [D]

ORN 211L

PERIOPERATIVE NURSES TRAINING LABORATORY

4 UNITS

Pass/No Pass Only

Fee: $184

Corequisite: ORN 209.

Limitation on Enrollment: Registered Nurse License or graduate nurse.

Laboratory 12 hours

Offered: FALL

Emphasizes setting priorities, care of the perioperative patient, and adapting to emerging technology in the surgical setting. Provides information about the ORN functioning independently in the perioperative setting. Enhances skill and knowledge base that is required in the surgical setting. [D; CSU]

ST 10A

CENTRAL SERVICE TECHNOLOGY

4.5 UNITS

Grade Only

Fee: $90

Recommended Preparation: RDG 56 or equivalent or through the Southwestern College multiple measures placement processes.

Lecture 4 hours, laboratory 2 hours

Offered: FALL

Introduces basic functions of a Central Service Department and includes microbiology, aseptic technique, disinfecting equipment, decontamination and sterilization as well as wrapping and packaging of surgical instruments. Provides a review of body systems and identification of instruments used in surgery. Emphasizes medical terminology, safety precautions, risk management, regulations, inventory management, ethical responsibilities, and communication skills. [D]

ST 10B

CENTRAL SERVICE TECHNOLOGY LABORATORY

3.5 UNITS

Grade Only

Prerequisite: ST 10A or equivalent.

Laboratory 11 hours

Offered: FALL

Provides laboratory experience to support the initial theory course for the Central Service Technology (CST) certificate program. Emphasizes training in aseptic technique, cleaning, disinfecting and sterilization in the hospital setting. Includes the practice of wrapping, packing, and inspecting surgical instruments. [D]

ST 10C

CENTRAL SERVICE TECHNOLOGY PRACTICUM

3.5 UNITS

Grade Only

Prerequisite: ST 10B or equivalent.

Laboratory 11 hours

Offered: FALL, SPRING

Provides an advanced laboratory experience for the role of the Central Service Technician and includes various scopes, power equipment, and camera's used in the operative environment. [D]

ST 110

INTRODUCTION TO SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY

8 UNITS

Grade Only

Fee: $152

Prerequisite: BIOL 190 or BIOL 260 or equivalent; MEDOP 230 or equivalent.

Corequisite: ST 120.

Limitation on Enrollment: Enrollment is limited to students accepted into the Surgical Technology program.

Lecture 8 hours

Offered: FALL

Introduces operating room nursing, aseptic techniques, disinfection, sterilization, instruments, and equipment. Includes supplies needed for general, gynecologic, thoracic, cardiovascular, and orthopedic surgery. Emphasizes moral, ethical, legal responsibilities, basics of patient care, communication, professional behavior, stress management, and medications used in the surgical process. [D; CSU]

ST 120

SURGICAL LABORATORY

4 UNITS

Pass/No Pass Only

Fee: $172

Corequisite: ST 110.

Laboratory 12 hours

Offered: FALL

Provides laboratory practice in basic surgical technique, asepsis, instrumentation, and surgical procedures in the major specialties. Includes a simulated operating room, and operating room scenarios. [D; CSU]

ST 130

ADVANCED OPERATING ROOM TECHNIQUES

4 UNITS

Grade Only

Prerequisite: ST 110 and ST 120, or equivalent.

Corequisite: ST 140 and ST 150.

Lecture 4 hours

Offered: SPRING

Presents advanced concepts of patient care, aseptic technique, and microbiology. Examines the subspecialties of ear, nose, throat, eye, neurosurgery, urology, pediatric, and plastic surgery. Reviews the varied hospital models, as well as the role of each member of the healthcare team. [D, CSU]

ST 140

PRACTICUM: MAJOR SURGICAL SPECIALTIES

8 UNITS

Pass/No Pass Only

Prerequisite: ST 110 and ST 120, or equivalent.

Corequisite: ST 130 and ST 150.

Laboratory 24 hours

Offered: SPRING

Provides clinical experience in the intraoperative setting. Emphasizes first or second scrub role. Includes augmented clinical hours in the campus laboratory, focusing on instrumentation, equipment, and supplies in the specialties of neurology, urology, ENT, eye, plastics, laparoscopic, orthopedic, and pediatric surgery. [D; CSU]

ST 150

CURRENT CONCEPTS IN SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY

1 UNIT

Grade Only

Corequisite: ST 130 and ST 140.

Lecture 1 hour

Offered: SUMMER

Presents current topics and concepts encountered in the surgical setting, with emphasis on developing awareness of moral, ethical responsibilities, and surgical conscience. Includes resume writing and required job skills. [D; CSU]

ST 160

PRACTICUM: SUBSPECIALTIES

6 UNITS

Pass/No Pass Only

Prerequisite: ST 130, ST 140, and ST 150, or equivalent.

Laboratory 18 hours

Offered: SUMMER

Provides clinical intraoperative experience under both instructor and preceptor supervision. Clinical experience focuses on functioning as first scrub, and solo scrub in all specialties. Emphasizes independent clinical experience in the major specialties of general, gynecological, orthopedic, thoracic, and vascular surgery. [D; CSU]

ST 299

INDEPENDENT STUDY

1-3 UNITS

Pass/No Pass or Grade is Allowed

Limitation on Enrollment: Eligibility for independent study.

Lecture 3 hours

Offered: ALL

Individual study or research in surgical technology of particular interest to the student. [D; CSU]

VN 30

INTRODUCTION TO PHARMACOLOGY

1 UNIT

Grade Only

Corequisite: VN 103.

Limitation on Enrollment: CNA Certification and Acceptance into Vocational Nursing Program.

Lecture 1 hour

Offered: FALL

Provides math review for dosage calculations, conversions between different systems of measurement, dosage calculation and measurement, drug orders and labels, and intravenous calculations. Includes instruction in the technique of safe medication administration. (Not open to students with credit in ADN 106.) [D]

VN 31

BASIC CONCEPTS IN PHARMACOLOGY

1 UNIT

Grade Only

Prerequisite: VN 30 or equivalent.

Limitation on Enrollment: Enrollment is limited to students accepted into the Vocational Nursing program.

Lecture 1 hour

Offered: FALL

Introduces basic concepts of pharmacology for Vocational Nursing (VN) students. Includes content organized according to drug administration as well as issues related to drug education, management, and enforcement of drug laws. Emphasizes knowledge of pharmacology necessary to properly educate and advise patients regarding their healthcare needs. [D]

VN 103

VOCATIONAL NURSING I

6 UNITS

Grade Only

Corequisite: VN 30 and VN 103L.

Limitation on Enrollment: CNA certification or equivalent.

Lecture 6 hours

Offered: FALL

Examines the evolution of nursing and current trends, and provides the student with knowledge and skills basic to nursing. Includes core components of Vocational Nursing such as skills for success, nursing process, physical assessment, documentation, legal and ethical considerations, therapeutic communication techniques, healthcare delivery systems, teaching and learning, cultural considerations, care of the surgical client, nursing care of body systems, and death and dying. [D; CSU]

VN 103L

VOCATIONAL NURSING LABORATORY I

6 UNITS

Pass/No Pass Only

Fee: $149

Corequisite: VN 103.

Laboratory 18.50 hours

Offered: FALL

Supports theory from VN 103 by offering clinical practice experiences in selected clinical settings. Emphasizes prioritization, decision-making, time management, and critical thinking appropriate to the LVN's scope of practice. Includes application of therapeutic communication, data collection, documentation, and identification of appropriate interventions and evaluation of nursing care of clients. [D; CSU]

VN 130

PHARMACOLOGY FOR NURSES

2 UNITS

Grade Only

Prerequisite: VN 30 and VN 31, or equivalent.

Corequisite: VN 201.

Lecture 2 hours

Offered: SPRING

Introduces pharmacology and medication administration skills, as well as skills needed for safe and effective medication administration. Covers pathophysiology and pharmacological treatment of diseases of the cardiovascular, neurosensory, endocrine, hematological, and immune systems; ears, nose, and throat (ENT); neurological systems and illicit drugs, urinary and reproductive systems; and nutrition. Reviews cultural and age specific aspects of medication administration. [D; CSU]

VN 201

VOCATIONAL NURSING II

6 UNITS

Grade Only

Prerequisite: VN 103 or equivalent.

Corequisite: VN 201L and VN 130.

Lecture 6 hours

Offered: SPRING

Emphasizes common health management and maintenance, prevention of illness, and community health. Covers hematological, cardiovascular, endocrine, sensory, neurology, immune, mental health, and urinary systems as well as neoplastic conditions. Includes concepts of client care, treatments, pharmacology, and diet therapy within each system. [D; CSU]

VN 201L

VOCATIONAL NURSING LABORATORY II

6 UNITS

Pass/No Pass Only

Fee: $40

Prerequisite: VN 103L or equivalent.

Corequisite: VN 201.

Laboratory 18.50 hours

Offered: SPRING

Companion laboratory course for VN 201. Supports theory from VN 201 by focusing on nursing performance in the clinical settings. Utilizes critical thinking and the nursing process in learning about fundamental disease processes and the LPN's role in prevention of illness, treatment of disease, and the restoration of health in the adult client. [D; CSU]

VN 250

MATERNAL-CHILD-ADULT HEALTH

4.5 UNITS

Grade Only

Prerequisite: VN 201 or equivalent.

Corequisite: VN 250L.

Lecture 4.50 hours

Offered: ALL

Introduces concepts of maternal-child nursing and adult health. Presents factors which may influence growth and development in the family. Includes alterations and diseases in the child-bearing family that can occur and impede normal growth and development. Emphasizes the use of the nursing process to assist adult clients and child-bearing families in the promotion of wellness and treatment of illnesses. [D; CSU]

VN 250L

MATERNAL-CHILD-ADULT HEALTH - VOCATIONAL NURSING LABORATORY III

4.5 UNITS

Pass/No Pass Only

Fee: $67

Prerequisite: VN 201L or equivalent.

Corequisite: VN 250.

Laboratory 14 hours

Offered: ALL

Focuses on nursing performance in specialty clinical areas, including maternal-child, pediatric, acute, and ambulatory care. [D; CSU]

VN 251

LEADERSHIP

1 UNIT

Grade Only

Corequisite: VN 250 and VN 250L.

Lecture 1 hour

Offered: ALL

Prepares the practical/vocational nursing (LPN/LVN) student to independently assume the role of the LPN/LVN in professional practice. Provides nursing concepts of leadership, management, organizational, and time management skills; a preceptor rotation assists in the completion of this transition. [D; CSU]

VN 251L

LEADERSHIP-VOCATIONAL NURSING LABORATORY IV

1.5 UNIT

Pass/No Pass Only

Corequisite: VN 251.

Laboratory 4.50 hours

Offered: ALL

Introduces role transition from vocational nursing student to nurse graduate. Includes client care assignments utilizing all nursing skills and demonstration of graduate-level clinical judgment. [D; CSU]

VN 299

INDEPENDENT STUDY

1-3 UNITS

Pass/No Pass or Grade is Allowed

Limitation on Enrollment: Eligibility for independent study.

Lecture 3 hours

Offered: ALL

Individual study or research in vocational nursing of particular interest to the student and not included in regular courses of the college. [D; CSU]

Southwestern College
2024-2025
Catalog

Nursing and Health Occupations

General Description

Career Options

Associate in Science Degree

Southwestern College Mission Statement

Southwestern College Associate Degree Nursing Mission Statement

The Associate Degree Nursing Program Philosophy

Beliefs About Man, Health, and Illness

Beliefs About Nursing

Beliefs About Students, Faculty, and Education

How to Apply

Special Instructions

Associate in Science Degree
Registered Nursing

Faculty

ADN

CNA

ST

VN

Print Options

Southwestern College 2024-2025 Catalog

Faculty

ADN

CNA

ST

VN

Southwestern College
2024-2025
Catalog