Purpose

This course has been designed and developed as an "online" refresher course for the RN who wishes to return to active nursing practice. It is an "anytime, anywhere" program where the individual student directs and controls his/her own learning environment. The theory is offered through the Central Colorado Area Health Education Center (AHEC) on Web CT that can be accessed from any computer. The clinical practicum is arranged by the student at an acute care or long term care facility of their choice in his/her own community. The course is sponsored and managed through the Colorado Center for Nursing Excellence and the Central Colorado AHEC.

Goals

• Update the knowledge and skills of RNs reentering the nursing profession to function competently within the legal requirements of the Colorado State Nurse Practice Act and the ANA Code of Ethics.
• Instill self-confidence for the nurses returning to active practice.
• Return a competent nurse back into the health care environment.

Prerequisites

• Registered Nurse
• Complete Web CT Orientation at Web CT Student Orientation Center.
• The ability to use e-mail to include sending and accessing attachment
• Conduct a WWW search for an assigned topic. Use discussion forums.
• Use online quiz and exam tools Upload and download documents and programs.
• Proof of current nursing license
• Proof professional liability insurance
• Proof current CPR
• Proof of current immunization

Course Details

Theory
The course is designed using case based learning where actual case scenarios are used to develop critical thinking in the learner. There are four theoretical modules that can be accessed through the Internet on Web CT. Each module has assigned readings, case studies through a CD ROM from the textbook and self-testing. The student is expected to read the assignments, review the web links, and complete the self-tests. A proctored final test of the theory will be given at the assigned facility under the direction of the Human Resources/Nursing Education Department.

• Module One - Current Concepts in Nursing Theory
• Module Two - Therapeutic Advances
• Module Three - Systems Review and Current Trends
• Module Four - Contemporary Issues

Clinical Practicum
Module Five is 120 hours of clinical practicum, skills training and hospital required training utilizing "self-assessment" and "competency" tools under the direct supervision of an RN preceptor. The clinical experience is individualized for the student based on their background, education and planned work environment. The experience is a contract between the student, healthcare facility and assigned preceptor.

1. At least 120 hours of supervised clinical practicum in a hospital or long-term care facility. Student is expected to complete a minimum of 3 days per week to achieve 120 hours in six weeks.

2. As part of the 120 hours the student is expected to attend mandatory training classes of infection control, fire, safety, quality assurance, risk management, disaster and other required training.

3. A contract will be signed between facility and student with required skill competencies and experiences the student is expected to complete. The preceptor will sign a document validating completion of expected activities.

Management of Course

The course will be managed through the Colorado Center for Nursing Excellence.

Registration and Information

Self-directed online course through WebCT at Central Colorado AHEC
Start date: "Any time - Anywhere", Download the registration form
Cost: $1,000.00

Contact Aleda Ahlgren @ 719-481-9452 for more information.