Nurse Refresher Course

This refresher course for inactive RNs and LPNs is approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing for re-entry into active nursing practice. Content focuses on current nursing practice and the evolving role of nurses within a changing healthcare delivery system. Dimensions covered will include: 1) clinical processes -- patient care competencies to meet patients' emerging psychosocial needs within a variety of healthcare settings; CDC guidelines for personal protective equipment (PPE) and infection control; 2) effective communication skills -- incorporating patient and family involvement in care decisions; 3) leadership -- establishing effective team relationships and appropriate delegation and supervision of nursing interventions; 4) continuous improvement -- ongoing evaluation of care given; and 5) critical thinking -- disciplined process of skillfully conceptualizing, applying, analyzing, and synthesizing information in a variety of ways and using it as a guide to lab skills course. A supervised clinical experience must be completed within one year to meet the Maryland Board of Nursing requirements. Information regarding additional course requirements (i.e. background checks and health screening data) will be provided at the start of the class. Specific questions regarding background investigations, licensure and criminal history should be directed to Kim Wood at kjwood@csmd.edu. Textbook required. Web-based section; see www.csmd.edu for details.