PNAC 115 Professional Practice A
1.5 Credits

This theory course introduces the profession of Practical Nursing and the BC legislation that informs the practice. The history of nursing and, specifically, the evolution of Practical Nursing in the Canadian health care system are discussed. The philosophy and foundational concepts of the PPNP are explored. As well, the legislation influencing Practical Nursing practice with clients experiencing chronic illness and those in residential care settings is examined. Specific professional issues such as responsibility, accountability, ethical practice and leadership relevant to the Practical Nursing role in residential care are explored. Critical thinking and decision making specific to the care of the chronically ill and interprofessional practice are also addressed.

Prerequisites
Pre- or Co-requisites: PNAC 121, PNAC 144, PNAC 135, PNAC 145, PNAC 151

Transfer Credits
Explore transfer credit opportunities by visiting the BC Transfer Guide

PNAC 121 Professional Communication A
1.5 Credits

This course provides learners with the foundational knowledge for caring and professional communication in nursing. An experiential and self-reflective approach 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, and learning and teaching concepts will be covered. The learner is provided with an opportunity to develop professional communication skills with clients requiring end of life care.

Prerequisites
Admission to Practical Nursing Program; Human Anatomy and Physiology for Practical Nurses with a minimum of 65% or equivalent.

Transfer Credits
Explore transfer credit opportunities by visiting the BC Transfer Guide

PNAC 135 Variations in Health A
2 Credits

This course provides the learner with the foundations of disease and illness across the lifespan. Learners will gain an understanding of pathophysiological alterations of body systems. Nursing management of disease and illness across the lifespan with an emphasis on interventions and treatment is also discussed. The learners understanding of pathophysiology as it relates to the ageing process and selected chronic illness will increase. A major focus of this course is on the care of the older adult experiencing a health challenge. Cultural diversity in healing practices are explored as well as evidence-informed research and practice.

Prerequisites
Admission to Practical Nursing Program; Human Anatomy and Physiology for Practical Nurses with a minimum of 65% or equivalent.

Transfer Credits
Explore transfer credit opportunities by visiting the BC Transfer Guide

PNAC 144 Health Promotion A
1 Credit

This introductory course will increase the learners understanding of health promotion within the Canadian context. This includes health enhancement, health protection, disease prevention and health restoration (recovery, care and support). In addition, this course will enhance knowledge of growth and development, health inequities and determinants of health will support the Practical Nurse to provide culturally appropriate and holistic care.

Prerequisites
Admission to Practical Nursing Program; Human Anatomy and Physiology for Practical Nurses with a minimum of 65% or equivalent.

Transfer Credits
Explore transfer credit opportunities by visiting the BC Transfer Guide

PNAC 145 Pharmacology A
2 Credits

This introductory course examines the principles of pharmacology required to administer medications in a safe and professional manner. Medication administration requires the application of the nursing process for clinical decision making. The routes of medication administration introduced include medications used to treat constipation, eye and ear disorders and the integumentary system. Complementary, Indigenous and alternative remedies, and polypharmacy across the lifespan are explored. The learners will gain an understanding of pharmacology and medication administration across the lifespan. Also included are the topics of substance abuse and addiction.

Prerequisites
Admission to Practical Nursing Program; Human Anatomy and Physiology for Practical Nurses with a minimum of 65% or equivalent.

Transfer Credits
Explore transfer credit opportunities by visiting the BC Transfer Guide

PNAC 151 Integrated Nursing Practice A
6 Credits

This course emphasizes the art and science of nursing, focusing on the development of nursing care and assessment. Learners will apply nursing knowledge through the practice of clinical decision making, nursing assessments and nursing interventions aimed at promoting health, independence and comfort. Classroom, laboratory, simulation, and other practice experiences will assist learners to integrate theory from other Access courses to provide safe, competent and ethical nursing care with clients.

Prerequisites
Admission to Practical Nursing Program; Human Anatomy and Physiology for Practical Nurses with a minimum of 65% or equivalent.

Transfer Credits
Explore transfer credit opportunities by visiting the BC Transfer Guide

PNAC 175 Consolidated Practice Experience A
4 Credits

This clinical experience provides learners with the opportunity to integrate theory from the Access level into practice. Learners will practice 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. This is a hands-on direct patent care experience supervised by faculty. The Level A competencies are practiced and mastered.

Prerequisites
PNAC 115,PNAC 121, PNAC 144, PNAC 135, PNAC 145, PNAC 151

Transfer Credits
Explore transfer credit opportunities by visiting the BC Transfer Guide