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NRNP 6566 Branching Exercise Cardiac Case 1 Assignment Example

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NRNP 6566 Branching Exercise Cardiac Case 1 Assignment Example

NRNP 6566 Branching Exercise: Cardiac Case 1 AssignmentNRNP 6566 Branching Exercise: Cardiac Case 1 Assignment

NRNP 6566 Branching Exercise Cardiac Case 1 Assignment Brief

Course: NRNP 6566 – Advanced Care of Adults in Acute Settings I

Assignment Title: NRNP 6566 Branching Exercise: Cardiac Case 1 Assignment

Assignment Instructions Overview

This assignment requires you to engage with an interactive media piece focusing on a cardiac patient case. You will be responsible for reviewing the patient presentation, including vital signs, past medical history (PMH), home medications, and diagnostic results. Based on this information, you will develop a comprehensive set of admission orders as the admitting provider, ensuring all aspects of patient care are addressed.

Understanding Assignment Objectives

The primary objective of this assignment is to apply your clinical knowledge and critical thinking skills to assess and treat a patient presenting with specific symptoms. You will develop a complete set of admission orders, ensuring no assumptions are made about prior treatments or protocols. The orders should include additional lab tests, diagnostics, medication adjustments, and rationales for each decision made.

The Student’s Role

As a student, you will take on the role of the admitting provider, responsible for the initial assessment and treatment plan for the patient. You must use the provided admission orders template, ensuring that each order is specific and leaves no room for interpretation by the nursing staff. Your role also involves justifying your decisions with evidence-based references, demonstrating an understanding of current guidelines and standards of care.

Competencies Measured

This assignment will measure your ability to:

  • Analyze patient data critically and develop appropriate treatment plans.
  • Apply current clinical guidelines and evidence-based practices in patient care.
  • Write clear and precise medical orders.
  • Justify clinical decisions with appropriate rationale and references.
  • Address all aspects of patient care, from immediate medical needs to long-term health promotion and discharge planning.

You Can Also Check Other Related Assessments for the NRNP 6566 – Advanced Care of Adults in Acute Settings I Course:

NRNP 6566 Impact of Pharmacokinetics on Medication Selection and Administration Assignment Example

NRNP 6566 Branching Exercise Cardiac Case 1 Assignment Example

Admission Orders for Cardiac Case 1: 63-Year-Old Female

Primary Diagnosis

Atrial Fibrillation with Rapid Ventricular Response

Status/Condition

Critical

Code Status

Full Code

Allergies

Penicillin

Admit to Unit

Intensive Care Unit (ICU)

Activity Level

Ambulate as tolerated

Diet

  • Clear liquids, advance as tolerated to a cardiac diet and low carbohydrate diet

IV Fluids

  • 0.9% Normal Saline at 75 mL/hr for hydration. Discontinue once the patient starts oral intake adequately.

Critical Drips

  • None required at this time as the patient’s rate is controlled with Metoprolol tartrate IV bolus. Monitor closely and reassess need for additional bolus if the rate increases again.

Respiratory

  • Oxygen via nasal cannula at 2 L/min. Wean if oxygen saturation remains >95% and the patient does not experience shortness of breath.

Medications

  • Heparin 5000 units subcutaneously BID for anticoagulation to prevent thromboembolic events (source: Harris, 2023).
  • Metoprolol tartrate 50 mg PO BID for ongoing rate control (source: Barkley & Myers, 2020).
  • Lisinopril 10 mg PO daily (reduce from home dose of 20 mg due to addition of Metoprolol) for hypertension management (source: Fuller & McCauley, 2023).
  • Metformin 500 mg PO BID, continue as home medication for diabetes management.

Nursing Orders

  • Vital signs every 15 minutes for 1 hour, then every 30 minutes for 1 hour, then hourly if stable.
  • Continuous cardiac monitoring.
  • Strict intake and output monitoring.
  • Daily weight.
  • Skin care and reposition every 2 hours.
  • Encourage use of incentive spirometer every hour while awake.

Follow-Up Lab Tests

  • Repeat CBC: To monitor hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelet levels.
  • Repeat CMP: To assess electrolyte balance, renal function, and liver enzymes.
  • TSH: To rule out thyroid-related causes of atrial fibrillation.
  • INR: To monitor anticoagulation status with Heparin.

Diagnostic Testing

  • Echocardiogram: To evaluate cardiac function and structure, particularly to assess for any valvular disease or cardiomyopathy.
  • Chest X-ray: To rule out any pulmonary causes for the shortness of breath and to assess cardiac silhouette.

Consults

  • Cardiology: For evaluation and management of new-onset atrial fibrillation, including consideration for potential cardioversion or ablation if rhythm does not stabilize with medical management.

Patient Education and Health Promotion

  • Educate the patient on the importance of medication adherence, particularly the new anticoagulant and rate control medications.
  • Discuss lifestyle modifications for heart health, including a low-sodium, heart-healthy diet, regular physical activity, and smoking cessation if applicable.
  • Explain the need for regular follow-up appointments to monitor the condition and adjust treatment as necessary.

Discharge Planning and Required Follow-Up Care

  • Plan for discharge once the patient is hemodynamically stable, with controlled heart rate and without symptoms.
  • Schedule follow-up with primary care provider and cardiology within one week of discharge.
  • Arrange for outpatient monitoring of INR if the patient continues on anticoagulation therapy.

References

Barkley, T. W., Jr., & Myers, C. M. (2020). Practice considerations for the adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner (3rd ed.). Barkley & Associates.

Fuller, V. J., & McCauley, P. S. (2023). Textbook for the adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner: Evidence-based standards of practice. Springer Publishing Company.

Harris, C. (2023). Adult-gerontology acute care practice guidelines (2nd ed.). Springer Publishing Company.

Detailed Assessment Instructions for the NRNP 6566 Branching Exercise Cardiac Case 1 Assignment

Description

Assignment: Branching Exercise: Cardiac Case 1

For this Assignment, you will review the interactive media piece/branching exercise provided in the Learning Resources. As you examine the patient case, consider how you might assess and treat patients with the symptoms and conditions presented.

Photo Credit: [IMAGEMORE Co., Ltd.]/[none]/Getty Images

To prepare:

  • Review the information provided in the case (patient presentation, vital signs, pmh, home meds, results of labs and diagnostics. With this information, critically think about what is happening with the patient.
  • Use your critical thinking skills and current guidelines to develop orders. Include additional labs/diagnostics, what needs repeated and followed up on. Medications that need to be ordered or changed.

The Assignment:

  • Using the required admission orders template found under the Learning Resources: Required Reading.
  • Develop a set of orders as the admitting provider.
  • Be sure to address each aspect of the order template
  • Write the orders as you would in the patient’s chart. Be specific. Do not leave room for the nurse to interpret your orders.
  • Do not assume anything has already been done/order. Use the information given. Example: If the case does not mention fluids were given, the patient did not receive fluids. You may have to start from scratch as if you are working in the ER. And you must provide orders if the patient needs to be admitted.
  • Make sure the order is complete and applicable to the patient.
  • Make sure you provide rationales for your labs and diagnostics and anything else you feel the need to explain. This should be done at the end of the order set – not included with the order.
  • Please do not write per protocol. We do not know what your protocol is and you need to demonstrate what is the appropriate standard of care for this patient.
  • A minimum of three current (within the last 5 years), evidenced based references are required

By Day 7 of Week 2

Submit your completed Assignment by Day 7 of Week 2 in Module 2.

Submission and Grading Information

To submit your completed Assignment for review and grading, do the following:

  • Please save your Assignment using the naming convention “MD2Assgn1+last name+first initial.(extension)” as the name.
  • Click the Module 2 Assignment 1 Rubric to review the Grading Criteria for the Assignment.
  • Click the Module 2 Assignment 1 link. You will also be able to “View Rubric” for grading criteria from this area.
  • Next, from the Attach File area, click on the Browse My Computer button. Find the document you saved as “MD2Assgn1+last name+first initial.(extension)” and click Open.
  • If applicable: From the Plagiarism Tools area, click the checkbox for I agree to submit my paper(s) to the Global Reference Database.
  • Click on the Submit button to complete your submission.

 CASE STUDY INFORMATION:

BACKGROUND

Scenario #1 63 year old female (Branching Exercise: Cardiac Case 1: 63 Year Old Female)

    • 63-year-old female presents to the Emergency Department complaining of dizziness and shortness of breath.

VITAL SIGNS

    • PMH: HTN, Diabetes, TIA
    • Home Meds: Lisinopril, Metformin
    • Allergies: Penicillin
    • HR: 180, O2 Sat 94%, BP: 107/78, RR: 21
    • The patient is a full code 
    • Atrial Fibrillation with Rapid Ventricular Response
    • 12 lead EKG, TSH, CBC,CMP, INR
    • Metoprolol tartrate 2.5mg IV bolus over 2 minutes (Rate control in this patient is the first priority in order to enable ventricular filling and cardiac output. Anticoagulation is indicated unless there is a contraindication. Rate control and anticoagulation are the priority then Cardiology will advise on TEE/Cardioversion.)

Learning Resources – Branching Exercise: Cardiac Case 1: 63 Year Old Female

Required Readings (click to expand/reduce)

Barkley, T. W., Jr., & Myers, C. M. (2020). Practice considerations for the adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner (3rd ed.). Barkley & Associates.

  • Chapter 21, “Arrhythmias” (pp. 263–290)

Fuller, V. J., & McCauley, P. S. (2023). Textbook for the adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner: Evidence-based standards of practice. Springer Publishing Company.

Tachycardia’s, pp. 106-109

Harris, C. (2023). Adult-gerontology acute care practice guidelines (2nd ed.). Springer Publishing Company.

Arrhythmias, pp. 54-58

Document: Admission Orders Template (Word document)Download Admission Orders Template (Word document)

Document: Admission Orders Template (Word document)

Required Media (click to expand/reduce)

MedCram. (2019, June 9). ECG interpretation explained clearly and succinctly – arrhythmias, blocks, hypertrophy [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rv6l0ViRJDQ

MedCram. (2018, July 15). ST elevation – EKG/ECG interpretation case 12 (STEMI, MI, ACS) [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ajWCLqz3VQ

MedCram. (2017, July 23). EKG/ECG practice strip interpretation explained clearly – case 10 [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zA1Dpwnzrxg

Walden University (Producer). (2019a). Branching exercise: Cardiac case 1 [Interactive media file]. Minneapolis, MN: Author.

Walden University (Producer). (2019a). Branching exercise: Cardiac case 1.[Interactive media file]. Minneapolis, MN: Author.

Antiarrhythmic Drugs for the AGACNP

Dr. Tony Anno, core faculty for the AGACNP program at Walden University reviews that cardiac cycle and arrythmia pathophysiology. A review and discussion on the use of antiarrhythmic drugs that the AGACNP may encounter in practice is also provided. (18m)

Accessible player  –Downloads– Download Video w/CC Download Audio Download Transcript

ECG Review for the AGACNP

Dr. Tony Anno reviews important concepts and skills needed in understanding and interpreting ECGs for the AGACNP in practice. This review will also build upon you previous knowledge and expertise in diagnosing and treating cardiac disorders. (14m)

Accessible player  –Downloads– Download Video w/CC Download Audio Download Transcript

LEARNING RESOURCES

Required Media

The assignment this week is the branching exercise.  You can go through the exercise as much as you want, until it is submitted.  You can only submit the assignment one time for grading.   Your assignment at the end of the exercise is to write orders that reflect your treatment plan for this patient.  The template for your order set is located in the required reading. Please be sure that you are writing specific orders exactly as you would in a patient’s chart.    The assignment is due by Sunday. 

Admission Orders Template

Primary Diagnosis:

Status/Condition (Critical, Guarded, Stable, etc.):

Code Status:

Allergies:

Admit to Unit:

Activity Level:

Diet:

IV Fluids:

 Critical Drips (If ordered, include type and rate. Do not defer to ICU protocol.):

Respiratory: Oxygen (If ordered, include type and rate.), pulmonary toilet needs, ventilator settings:

Medications (include ALL, tx of primary condition, underlying conditions, pain, comfort needs, etc., dose and route):

Nursing Orders (vital signs, skin care, toileting, ambulation, etc.):

Follow-Up Lab Tests:

 Diagnostic testing (CXR, US, 2D Echo, etc.):

Consults:

NOTE: (Do not defer management to a specialist. As an ACNP, you must manage the patient’s acute needs for at least a 24-hour period]. Include indication for consult. For example: “Cardiology consult for evaluation of new-onset atrial fibrillation,” or “Nutrition consult for TPN recommendations.”

Patient Education and Health Promotion (address age-appropriate patient education. if applicable):

Discharge Planning and Required Follow-Up Care:

References (minimum of three timely references that prove this plan follows current standards of care):

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NRNP 6566 Impact of Pharmacokinetics on Medication Selection and Administration Paper Example

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NRNP 6566 Impact of Pharmacokinetics on Medication Selection and Administration Paper Example

NRNP 6566 Impact of Pharmacokinetics on Medication Selection and Administration AssignmentNRNP 6566 Impact of Pharmacokinetics on Medication Selection and Administration Assignment

NRNP 6566 Impact of Pharmacokinetics on Medication Selection and Administration Assignment Brief

Course: NRNP 6566 – Advanced Care of Adults in Acute Settings I

Assignment Title: NRNP 6566 Impact of Pharmacokinetics on Medication Selection and Administration Assignment

Assignment Instructions Overview

This assignment aims to enhance your understanding of how pharmacokinetics influences medication selection and administration. As an advanced practice nurse (APN), you will be responsible for prescribing medications, and a thorough understanding of pharmacokinetics is essential for effective decision-making. This assignment will explore how knowledge of drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination can inform your prescribing practices to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

Understanding Assignment Objectives

The primary objective of this assignment is to analyze the impact of pharmacokinetics on medication selection and administration. You will reflect on how pharmacokinetic principles can guide you in adjusting dosages, selecting appropriate drug administration routes, and anticipating potential drug interactions and adverse effects. The goal is to integrate pharmacokinetic knowledge into your clinical practice to improve patient care and safety.

The Student’s Role

As a student, your role is to demonstrate your understanding of pharmacokinetic concepts and their practical application in clinical settings. You will be expected to review the provided learning resources, engage in discussions, and provide specific examples of how pharmacokinetics influences your medication prescribing decisions. Your initial post should be well-researched, clearly articulated, and supported by relevant literature.

Competencies Measured

This assignment will assess your ability to:

  • Apply pharmacokinetic principles to clinical decision-making.
  • Identify factors that affect drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination.
  • Analyze the implications of pharmacokinetic interactions on medication safety and efficacy.
  • Utilize evidence-based knowledge to optimize medication regimens for diverse patient populations.
  • Communicate your understanding effectively through a structured and well-supported discussion post.

You Can Also Check Other Related Assessments for the NRNP 6566 – Advanced Care of Adults in Acute Settings I Course:

NRNP 6566 Branching Exercise: Cardiac Case 1 Assignment Example

NRNP 6566 Impact of Pharmacokinetics on Medication Selection and Administration Paper Example

Introduction

As advanced practice nurses (APNs), it is crucial to have a thorough understanding of pharmacokinetics when prescribing medications. Pharmacokinetics involves the study of how a drug is absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and eliminated by the body. This knowledge helps in making informed decisions regarding medication selection and administration, ensuring optimal therapeutic outcomes and minimizing adverse effects.

Importance of Pharmacokinetics in Prescribing Medications

Understanding pharmacokinetics is vital in selecting the appropriate medication and determining the correct dosage and administration route. Factors such as age, gender, and ethnicity can significantly influence pharmacokinetic processes and affect drug efficacy and safety. For instance, elderly patients may have reduced renal function, necessitating dosage adjustments to prevent toxicity (Doogue & Polasek, 2013).

Consider the case of warfarin and amiodarone, where co-administration can increase the levels of both medications. Amiodarone, an antiarrhythmic agent, inhibits the metabolism of warfarin, leading to increased anticoagulant effects and a higher risk of bleeding (Haverkamp et al., 2017). Monitoring and dosage adjustments are essential to manage this interaction safely.

Case Example: Nitroglycerin Administration

Nitroglycerin is a potent vasodilator used primarily for angina pectoris. It is typically administered sublingually rather than orally due to its high first-pass metabolism. When taken orally, nitroglycerin undergoes extensive hepatic metabolism, significantly reducing its bioavailability and effectiveness (Willenbring et al., 2018). Sublingual administration bypasses the liver, allowing rapid absorption and onset of action, which is crucial during angina attacks.

The sublingual route is preferred because the thin sublingual epithelium allows for quicker absorption into the systemic circulation compared to the thicker buccal mucosa (Akhter et al., 2022). This method ensures that sufficient drug levels are achieved promptly, providing rapid relief from angina symptoms.

Other Medications with Non-Oral Administration Routes

Some medications are not suitable for oral administration due to poor absorption or significant first-pass metabolism. For example, vaginally administered medications like progestogens, estrogens, and antifungals are used to treat conditions such as yeast infections. The vaginal route provides a local effect and avoids the first-pass metabolism, ensuring higher drug concentrations at the site of action (Leyva-Gómez et al., 2019).

Conclusion

In summary, understanding pharmacokinetics is crucial for APNs in prescribing and administering medications. It allows for personalized treatment plans that consider individual patient factors, ensuring effective and safe therapeutic outcomes. By being aware of how drugs are absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and eliminated, APNs can make informed decisions that optimize patient care.

References

Akhter, A. S., Gumina, R., & Nimjee, S. (2022). Sublingual Nitroglycerin Administration to Relieve Radial Artery Vasospasm and Retrieve Wedged Catheter: A Consideration in Neuroangiography. Stroke: Vascular and Interventional Neurology. https://doi.org/10.1161/svin.121.000155

Doogue, M. P., & Polasek, T. M. (2013). The ABCD of clinical pharmacokinetics. Therapeutic Advances in Drug Safety, 4(1), 5-7. https://doi.org/10.1177/2042098612469335

Haverkamp, W., Breithardt, G., Camm, A. J., Janse, M. J., Rosen, M. R., Antzelevitch, C., … & Hoffman, B. F. (2017). The potential for QT prolongation and proarrhythmia by non-antiarrhythmic drugs: clinical and regulatory implications. Report on a policy conference of the European Society of Cardiology. European Heart Journal, 21(15), 1216-1231. https://doi.org/10.1053/euhj.2000.2518

Leyva-Gómez, G., Del Prado-Audelo, M. L., Ortega-Peña, S., Mendoza-Muñoz, N., Urbán-Morlán, Z., González-Torres, M., … & Cortés, H. (2019). Modifications in Vaginal Microbiota and Their Influence on Drug Release: Challenges and Opportunities. Pharmaceutics, 11(5), 217. https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics11050217

Willenbring, B. A., Schnitker, C. K., & Stellpflug, S. J. (2018). Oral Nitroglycerin Solution May Be Effective for Esophageal Food Impaction. The Journal of Emergency Medicine, 54(5), 678-680. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jemermed.2018.01.024

Detailed Assessment Instructions for the NRNP 6566 Impact of Pharmacokinetics on Medication Selection and Administration Assignment

Discussion: Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics

Impact of Pharmacokinetics on Medication Selection and Administration

As an advanced practice nurse, you will likely be responsible for selecting and prescribing pharmaceuticals to address your patients’ health needs and concerns. To what extent is understanding the pharmacokinetics of a certain medication important in your decision-making process when prescribing a medication for your patient?

Knowing the pharmacokinetic effects of medications—such as how long will the medication be absorbed and exert an effect on the body before it is eliminated—can have important implications for addressing your patient’s health needs.

Photo Credit: Getty Images/Ingram Publishing

For this Discussion, think about the types of decisions you might make, with an understanding of pharmacokinetics, when prescribing medications for your patients. Reflect on how having a working knowledge of pharmacokinetics of medications is important in your role as an advanced practice nurse.

To Prepare

  • Review the Learning Resources on pharmacokinetics.
  • Review the Discussion Prompt and Response Prompt assigned by your Instructor.

By Day 3 of Week 1

Post your response to the Discussion Prompt assigned by your Instructor. Be specific and provide examples.

Note: For this Discussion, you are required to complete your initial post before you will be able to view and respond to your colleagues’ postings. Begin by clicking on the “Post to Discussion Question” link and then select “Create Thread” to complete your initial post. Remember, once you click on Submit, you cannot delete or edit your own posts, and you cannot post anonymously. Please check your post carefully before clicking on Submit!

Learning Resources

Required Readings (click to expand/reduce)

Doogue, M. P., & Polasek, T. M. (2013). The ABCD of clinical pharmacokinetics. Therapeutic Advances in Drug Safety, 4(1), 5–7. doi:10.1177/2042098612469335

Sakai, J. B. (2008). Practical pharmacology for the pharmacy technician. Philadelphia, PA: Jones & Bartlett Learning. • Chapter 3, “Pharmacokinetics: The Absorption, Distribution, and Excretion of Drugs” (pp. 27–40).

Required Media (click to expand/reduce)

Speed Pharmacology. (2015, April 7). Pharmacology – pharmacokinetics (made easy) [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NKV5iaUVBUI

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NRNP 6566 – Advanced Care of Adults in Acute Settings I Course Guide, Assignments & Examples

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NRNP 6566 – Advanced Care of Adults in Acute Settings I Course Guide, Assignments & Examples

NRNP 6566 - Advanced Care of Adults in Acute Settings INRNP 6566 – Advanced Care of Adults in Acute Settings I (3 credits)

NRNP 6566 – Advanced Care of Adults in Acute Settings I Course Description

This course is the first of four clinical courses in the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care curriculum. Students will explore and integrate concepts of pathophysiology, pharmacology, assessment, and collaborative management of adolescents, adults, and older adults who are acutely/critically ill or experiencing an exacerbation of a chronic health problem. The clinical focus is on the role of the acute care nurse practitioner working with an interdisciplinary team across settings to facilitate the patient’s return to optimal health. Topics include cardiac, pulmonary, and renal issues as well as common diagnostic test and procedures.

Prerequisites

  • NURS 6501
  • NURS 6512
  • NURS 6521
  • NURS 6052

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Discussion: Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics

Impact of Pharmacokinetics on Medication Selection and Administration

As an advanced practice nurse, you will likely be responsible for selecting and prescribing pharmaceuticals to address your patients’ health needs and concerns. To what extent is understanding the pharmacokinetics of a certain medication important in your decision-making process when prescribing a medication for your patient?

Knowing the pharmacokinetic effects of medications—such as how long will the medication be absorbed and exert an effect on the body before it is eliminated—can have important implications for addressing your patient’s health needs.

Photo Credit: Getty Images/Ingram Publishing

For this Discussion, think about the types of decisions you might make, with an understanding of pharmacokinetics, when prescribing medications for your patients. Reflect on how having a working knowledge of pharmacokinetics of medications is important in your role as an advanced practice nurse.

To Prepare

  • Review the Learning Resources on pharmacokinetics.
  • Review the Discussion Prompt and Response Prompt assigned by your Instructor.

By Day 3 of Week 1

Post your response to the Discussion Prompt assigned by your Instructor. Be specific and provide examples.

Note: For this Discussion, you are required to complete your initial post before you will be able to view and respond to your colleagues’ postings. Begin by clicking on the “Post to Discussion Question” link and then select “Create Thread” to complete your initial post. Remember, once you click on Submit, you cannot delete or edit your own posts, and you cannot post anonymously. Please check your post carefully before clicking on Submit!

Learning Resources

Required Readings (click to expand/reduce)

Doogue, M. P., & Polasek, T. M. (2013). The ABCD of clinical pharmacokinetics. Therapeutic Advances in Drug Safety, 4(1), 5–7. doi:10.1177/2042098612469335

Sakai, J. B. (2008). Practical pharmacology for the pharmacy technician. Philadelphia, PA: Jones & Bartlett Learning. • Chapter 3, “Pharmacokinetics: The Absorption, Distribution, and Excretion of Drugs” (pp. 27–40).

Required Media (click to expand/reduce)

Speed Pharmacology. (2015, April 7). Pharmacology – pharmacokinetics (made easy) [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NKV5iaUVBUI

NRNP – 6566 Advanced Care of Adults in Acute Settings I Week one DB solved:

Hello, class!

In this first week you are asked to discuss a topic in pharmacotherapy. Your initial post must respond to the following initial post topic. For one of your response posts, you must address the response topic below.

Here are the required topics for the Week 1 Discussion:

Initial Post Topic

  • Explain why administering warfarin and amiodarone cause increased levels of both medications. Describe the monitoring and dosage alterations necessary if both drugs are prescribed.

Response Post Topic- include this requirement into one of your responses. Remember you must post 2 replies, each on separate days.

  • Explain another combination of medications that affects the pharmacokinetic processes in the body. Describe the monitoring and dose alterations needed to counter the combined effects.

**Remember that according to University policy, you must wait until day one of the course to post your initial discussion post.**

Branching Exercise: Cardiac Case 1: 63 Year Old Female

Branching Exercise: Cardiac Case 1: 63 Year Old Female

Week 2: 12-lead EKG Interpretation and Diagnostic Evaluation of Arrhythmias

Much like problems with a home’s heating and cooling system, arrhythmias begin with symptoms that often require expertise to diagnose. The symptoms of arrhythmias are routinely among the leading reasons for emergency room visits. Palpitations, racing hearts, anxiety, irregular heartbeats, and chest pain often alert sufferers to the potential for bigger problems. This puts cardiology squarely in the spotlight as the branch of medicine responsible for addressing not only arrythmias but the many cardiac and circulatory disorders that afflict so many each year.

As an advanced practice nurse, you must be prepared to effectively recognize, respond, diagnose, and treat these symptoms. Hence, it is important for nurses at every level of care to demonstrate expertise in heart arrhythmias as a component of cardiovascular care.

This week, you examine issues pertinent to arrhythmias. You examine diagnosis and management approaches to heart rhythm issues and the health problems that may trigger them. You also examine the tools used to help recognize and respond to these issues. 

Learning Objectives

Students will:

  • Interpret 12-lead EKGs
  • Discern arrhythmias within 12-lead EKGs
  • Develop appropriate treatment plans, including diagnostics and laboratory orders for patients with identified arrhythmias

NRNP 6566 Branching Exercise: Cardiac Case 1 Assignment

Description

Assignment: Branching Exercise: Cardiac Case 1

For this Assignment, you will review the interactive media piece/branching exercise provided in the Learning Resources. As you examine the patient case, consider how you might assess and treat patients with the symptoms and conditions presented.

Photo Credit: [IMAGEMORE Co., Ltd.]/[none]/Getty Images

To prepare:

  • Review the information provided in the case (patient presentation, vital signs, pmh, home meds, results of labs and diagnostics. With this information, critically think about what is happening with the patient.
  • Use your critical thinking skills and current guidelines to develop orders. Include additional labs/diagnostics, what needs repeated and followed up on. Medications that need to be ordered or changed.

The Assignment:

  • Using the required admission orders template found under the Learning Resources: Required Reading.
  • Develop a set of orders as the admitting provider.
  • Be sure to address each aspect of the order template
  • Write the orders as you would in the patient’s chart. Be specific. Do not leave room for the nurse to interpret your orders.
  • Do not assume anything has already been done/order. Use the information given. Example: If the case does not mention fluids were given, the patient did not receive fluids. You may have to start from scratch as if you are working in the ER. And you must provide orders if the patient needs to be admitted.
  • Make sure the order is complete and applicable to the patient.
  • Make sure you provide rationales for your labs and diagnostics and anything else you feel the need to explain. This should be done at the end of the order set – not included with the order.
  • Please do not write per protocol. We do not know what your protocol is and you need to demonstrate what is the appropriate standard of care for this patient.
  • A minimum of three current (within the last 5 years), evidenced based references are required

By Day 7 of Week 2

Submit your completed Assignment by Day 7 of Week 2 in Module 2.

Submission and Grading Information

To submit your completed Assignment for review and grading, do the following:

  • Please save your Assignment using the naming convention “MD2Assgn1+last name+first initial.(extension)” as the name.
  • Click the Module 2 Assignment 1 Rubric to review the Grading Criteria for the Assignment.
  • Click the Module 2 Assignment 1 link. You will also be able to “View Rubric” for grading criteria from this area.
  • Next, from the Attach File area, click on the Browse My Computer button. Find the document you saved as “MD2Assgn1+last name+first initial.(extension)” and click Open.
  • If applicable: From the Plagiarism Tools area, click the checkbox for I agree to submit my paper(s) to the Global Reference Database.
  • Click on the Submit button to complete your submission.

CASE STUDY INFORMATION:

BACKGROUND

Scenario #1 63 year old female (Branching Exercise: Cardiac Case 1: 63 Year Old Female)

    • 63-year-old female presents to the Emergency Department complaining of dizziness and shortness of breath.

VITAL SIGNS

    • PMH: HTN, Diabetes, TIA
    • Home Meds: Lisinopril, Metformin
    • Allergies: Penicillin
    • HR: 180, O2 Sat 94%, BP: 107/78, RR: 21
    • The patient is a full code
    • Atrial Fibrillation with Rapid Ventricular Response
    • 12 lead EKG, TSH, CBC,CMP, INR
    • Metoprolol tartrate 2.5mg IV bolus over 2 minutes (Rate control in this patient is the first priority in order to enable ventricular filling and cardiac output. Anticoagulation is indicated unless there is a contraindication. Rate control and anticoagulation are the priority then Cardiology will advise on TEE/Cardioversion.)

Learning Resources – Branching Exercise: Cardiac Case 1: 63 Year Old Female

Required Readings (click to expand/reduce)

Barkley, T. W., Jr., & Myers, C. M. (2020). Practice considerations for the adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner (3rd ed.). Barkley & Associates.

  • Chapter 21, “Arrhythmias” (pp. 263–290)

Fuller, V. J., & McCauley, P. S. (2023). Textbook for the adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner: Evidence-based standards of practice. Springer Publishing Company.

Tachycardia’s, pp. 106-109

Harris, C. (2023). Adult-gerontology acute care practice guidelines (2nd ed.). Springer Publishing Company.

Arrhythmias, pp. 54-58

Document: Admission Orders Template (Word document)Download Admission Orders Template (Word document)

Document: Admission Orders Template (Word document)

Required Media (click to expand/reduce)

MedCram. (2019, June 9). ECG interpretation explained clearly and succinctly – arrhythmias, blocks, hypertrophy [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rv6l0ViRJDQ

MedCram. (2018, July 15). ST elevation – EKG/ECG interpretation case 12 (STEMI, MI, ACS) [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ajWCLqz3VQ

MedCram. (2017, July 23). EKG/ECG practice strip interpretation explained clearly – case 10 [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zA1Dpwnzrxg

Walden University (Producer). (2019a). Branching exercise: Cardiac case 1 [Interactive media file]. Minneapolis, MN: Author.

Walden University (Producer). (2019a). Branching exercise: Cardiac case 1.[Interactive media file]. Minneapolis, MN: Author.

Antiarrhythmic Drugs for the AGACNP

Dr. Tony Anno, core faculty for the AGACNP program at Walden University reviews that cardiac cycle and arrythmia pathophysiology. A review and discussion on the use of antiarrhythmic drugs that the AGACNP may encounter in practice is also provided. (18m)

Accessible player  –Downloads– Download Video w/CC Download Audio Download Transcript

ECG Review for the AGACNP

Dr. Tony Anno reviews important concepts and skills needed in understanding and interpreting ECGs for the AGACNP in practice. This review will also build upon you previous knowledge and expertise in diagnosing and treating cardiac disorders. (14m)

Accessible player  –Downloads– Download Video w/CC Download Audio Download Transcript

LEARNING RESOURCES

Required Media

The assignment this week is the branching exercise.  You can go through the exercise as much as you want, until it is submitted.  You can only submit the assignment one time for grading.   Your assignment at the end of the exercise is to write orders that reflect your treatment plan for this patient.  The template for your order set is located in the required reading. Please be sure that you are writing specific orders exactly as you would in a patient’s chart.    The assignment is due by Sunday. 

Admission Orders Template

Primary Diagnosis:

Status/Condition (Critical, Guarded, Stable, etc.):

Code Status:

Allergies:

Admit to Unit:

Activity Level:

Diet:

IV Fluids:

 Critical Drips (If ordered, include type and rate. Do not defer to ICU protocol.):

Respiratory: Oxygen (If ordered, include type and rate.), pulmonary toilet needs, ventilator settings:

Medications (include ALL, tx of primary condition, underlying conditions, pain, comfort needs, etc., dose and route):

Nursing Orders (vital signs, skin care, toileting, ambulation, etc.):

Follow-Up Lab Tests:

 Diagnostic testing (CXR, US, 2D Echo, etc.):

Consults:

NOTE: (Do not defer management to a specialist. As an ACNP, you must manage the patient’s acute needs for at least a 24-hour period]. Include indication for consult. For example: “Cardiology consult for evaluation of new-onset atrial fibrillation,” or “Nutrition consult for TPN recommendations.”

Patient Education and Health Promotion (address age-appropriate patient education. if applicable):

Discharge Planning and Required Follow-Up Care:

References (minimum of three timely references that prove this plan follows current standards of care):

NRNP 6566 Branching Exercise: Cardiac Case 2

Description

  • Review the interactive media under Required Media: Branching exercise. This is provided in the Learning Resources.
  • Review the information provided in the case (patient presentation, vital signs, pmh, home meds, results of labs and diagnostics. With this information, critically think about what is happening with the patient.
  • Use your critical thinking skills and current guidelines to develop orders. Include additional labs/diagnostics, what needs repeated and followed up on. Medications that need to be ordered or changed.

The Assignment:

  • Using the required admission orders template found under the Learning Resources: Required Reading.
  • Develop a set of orders as the admitting provider.
  • Be sure to address each aspect of the order template
  • Write the orders as you would in the patient’s chart. Be specific. Do not leave room for the nurse to interpret your orders.
  • Do not assume anything has already been done/order. Use the information given. Example: If the case does not mention fluids were given, the patient did not receive fluids. You may have to start from scratch as if you are working in the ER. And you must provide orders if the patient needs to be admitted.
  • Make sure the order is complete and applicable to the patient.
  • Make sure you provide rationales for your labs and diagnostics and anything else you feel the need to explain. This should be done at the end of the order set – not included with the order.
  • Please do not write per protocol. We do not know what your protocol is and you need to demonstrate what is the appropriate standard of care for this patient.
  • A minimum of three current (within the last 5 years), evidenced based references are required.

INFORMATION NEEDED:

  • An 84-year-old female is brought in by family with complaints of increased confusion and lethargy.
  • Patient usually lives alone and is fully functional.
  • Son reports that she has been increasingly confused and sleeping a lot at home.
  • Son denies any fever.
  • Patient complains of pain “all over” and responds to repeated questions with “I think I’m sick”
  • She has a DNR status but wants full treatment at this time.

EXAM

    • BP 105/64, HR 115, RR 24, T 96॰ F, SpO2 92% on room air
    • Patient is alert and oriented to person, however, thinks the year is 1990
    • PMH: HTN and Diabetes
    • Home Med: Metoprolol, Insulin, Lantus 10mg at bedtime, Calcium
    • NKDA
    • Initial 12-Lead EKG to assess myocardial function
    • CBC to assess for leukocytosis (increased WBC) and potential anemia
    • CMP to assess electrolyte disturbances, liver and renal function. And potential for DKA
    • Urinalysis to assess for potential UTI
    • Chest X-ray to assess for infiltrates (pneumonia)

RESULTS OF INDICATED TESTS

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

WBC 3.4 k/UL
Hgb 9.3 g/dL
Hct 28%
Platelets 250 k/UL
Differential
Neutrolphil 90%
Bands 10%
Eosinophil 0%
Basophil 0%
Lymphocyte 2%
Monocyte 3%

Complete Metabolic Panel (CMP)

NA+ 132 mEq/L
K+ 3.7 mEq/L
HCO# 27 mEq/L
Cl- 101 mEq/L
Glucose 1766
BUN 55 mg/dL
Creatinine 2.0 mg/dL
Albumin 3.2g/dL
Alkaline Phosphatase 99 IU/L
ALT 38 IU/L
AST 30 IU/L
Total Bilirubin 2.1 mg/DL

Urinalysis (U/A)

Color: Yellow
Clarity: Dark/Cloudy
Sp gravity 1.042
pH 6.2
Total Protein: Negative
Glucose: Positive
Ketones: Negative
Bilirubin: Negative
RBCS: 10
WBC: 12
Leukocyte Esterase: 3+
Nitrite: Positive

Because the patient has circulatory compromise (hypotension, altered mental status) she is in septic shock.

Septic Shock is a subset of sepsis with circulatory and/or cellular or metabolic dysfunction. Patients will have hypotension, decreased urine output, altered mental status-signs of organ damage

Associated with a higher risk of mortality

Aggressive resuscitation and early initiation of septic protocols are a must

Admission Orders Template

Primary Diagnosis:

Status/Condition (Critical, Guarded, Stable, etc.):

Code Status:

Allergies:

Admit to Unit:

Activity Level:

Diet:

IV Fluids:

 Critical Drips (If ordered, include type and rate. Do not defer to ICU protocol.):

Respiratory: Oxygen (If ordered, include type and rate.), pulmonary toilet needs, ventilator settings:

Medications (include ALL, tx of primary condition, underlying conditions, pain, comfort needs, etc., dose and route):

Nursing Orders (vital signs, skin care, toileting, ambulation, etc.):

Follow-Up Lab Tests:

 Diagnostic testing (CXR, US, 2D Echo, etc.):

Consults:

NOTE: (Do not defer management to a specialist. As an ACNP, you must manage the patient’s acute needs for at least a 24-hour period]. Include indication for consult. For example: “Cardiology consult for evaluation of new-onset atrial fibrillation,” or “Nutrition consult for TPN recommendations.”

Patient Education and Health Promotion (address age-appropriate patient education. if applicable):

Discharge Planning and Required Follow-Up Care:

References (minimum of three timely references that prove this plan follows current standards of care):

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NURS 6512 Assessing the Abdomen Lab Assignment Example

, ,

NURS 6512 Assessing the Abdomen Lab Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Assessing the Abdomen Lab AssignmentNURS 6512 Assessing the Abdomen Lab Assignment

NURS 6512 Assessing the Abdomen Lab Assignment Brief

Course: NURS 6512 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning

Assignment Title: NURS 6512 – Assignment 1: Lab Assignment: Assessing the Abdomen

Assignment Instructions Overview

In this lab assignment, you will analyze an episodic note case study describing abnormal findings in patients presenting with abdominal symptoms. Your task is to thoroughly assess the provided patient scenario, identifying essential history elements, performing appropriate physical examinations, and recommending diagnostic tests to aid in formulating a differential diagnosis.

Understanding Assignment Objectives

This assignment aims to evaluate your ability to:

  • Analyze subjective and objective data in an episodic note.
  • Apply concepts from advanced health assessment to assess abdominal and gastrointestinal conditions.
  • Formulate a differential diagnosis based on clinical findings and evidence-based literature.

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The Student’s Role

As a student, your role is to:

  • Review the provided episodic note case study and associated learning resources.
  • Determine relevant patient history details crucial for accurate assessment.
  • Recommend appropriate physical exams and diagnostic tests based on the patient’s clinical presentation.
  • Formulate a differential diagnosis considering potential conditions aligned with the patient’s symptoms and clinical data.

Competencies Measured

This assignment assesses the following competencies:

  • Ability to collect comprehensive patient history related to abdominal and gastrointestinal symptoms.
  • Proficiency in conducting systematic physical examinations to assess abdominal findings.
  • Skill in recommending evidence-based diagnostic tests to aid in accurate diagnosis.
  • Capacity to critically evaluate and justify differential diagnosis based on clinical evidence.

You Can Also Check Other Related Assessments for the NURS 6512 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning Course:

NURS 6512 Diversity and Health Assessments Discussion Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Differential Diagnosis for Skin Conditions Lab Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Building a Comprehensive Health History Discussion Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Assessment Tools and Diagnostic Tests in Adults and Children Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Assessing the Head, Eyes, Ears, Nose, and Throat Case Study Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Assessing the Abdomen Lab Assignment Example

NURS 6512 – Assignment 1: Lab Assignment: Assessing the Abdomen

SOAP Note

S:

CC: “My stomach hurts, I have diarrhea, and nothing seems to help.”

HPI: M.N, a 47-year-old woman, presents with an abdominal pain complaint that began three days ago. She hasn’t taken any medicines since she didn’t know what to take. She states her pain rate is 5/10 better than it first began.

PMH: Hypertension, Diabetes, GI bleeding history four years back.

Medications: Amlodipine 5 mg, Lisinopril 10mg, and Metformin 1000mg.

Allergies: NKDA

Family History: No history of colon cancer, Father has DMT2, Hypertension, Mother as well has HTN, Hyperlipidemia, and GERD

Social: Doesn’t smoke, married with three kids (2 girls and a boy)

O:

Vital signs: Temp 99.8; RR 16; P 92; BP 160/86; Height 5’10”; Weight 248lbs

Heart: No murmurs

Lungs: Clear chest walls

Skin: Intact without urticaria and lesions

Abdomen: hyperactive bowel sounds, soft

Assessment:

Gastroenteritis

Subjective Portion Analysis

The subjective portion of the SOAP note details the patient’s symptoms and history. It is crucial for understanding the patient’s current condition and guiding further examination and treatment. The covered areas include chief complaints, history of present illness, past medical history, current medications, social history, allergies, and family history. However, additional information should be gathered to complete the history, such as the patient’s location and recent dietary intake which could contribute to symptoms (Colyar, 2015).

Objective Portion Analysis

The objective part of the SOAP note provides the physician’s findings from the physical examination. While it includes vital signs, cardiovascular, respiratory, and abdominal assessments, a more comprehensive head-to-toe examination is necessary. This would encompass evaluation of additional areas like neurological and musculoskeletal systems to rule out other potential causes of symptoms (LeBlond et al., 2014).

Assessment

The assessment is supported by both the subjective and objective data. Subjective data supports the diagnosis through the patient’s reported symptoms and history. Objective findings include abdominal tenderness and hyperactive bowel sounds, aligning with the diagnosis of gastroenteritis (Dains et al., 2019).

Diagnostic Tests

Appropriate diagnostic tests for this case include stool culture to identify infectious agents causing gastroenteritis. Endoscopy or colonoscopy may also be considered to evaluate for other gastrointestinal conditions presenting similarly to gastroenteritis (LeBlond et al., 2014).

Current Diagnosis

The current diagnosis of gastroenteritis is well-supported by the patient’s symptoms and objective findings. Symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea, which are typical manifestations of gastroenteritis. The absence of severe complications and improvement without treatment further supports this diagnosis (Bányai et al., 2018).

Differential Diagnosis

  1. Amebiasis: Parasitic infection causing symptoms similar to gastroenteritis, including diarrhea and abdominal pain (Bányai et al., 2018).
  2. Bacterial gastroenteritis: Infection of the gut by bacterial pathogens presenting with severe abdominal cramps and diarrhea (Barrett & Fhogartaigh, 2017).
  3. Food poisoning: Toxin-mediated illness from contaminated food, leading to gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea (Barrett & Fhogartaigh, 2017).

References

Bányai, K., Estes, M. K., Martella, V., & Parashar, U. D. (2018). Viral gastroenteritis. The Lancet, 392(10142), 175-186. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0140673618311280

Barrett, J., & Fhogartaigh, C. N. (2017). Bacterial gastroenteritis. Medicine, 45(11), 683-689. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1357303917302177

Colyar, M. R. (2015). Advanced practice nursing procedures. Philadelphia, PA: F. A. Davis.

Dains, J. E., Baumann, L. C., & Scheibel, P. (2019). Advanced health assessment and clinical diagnosis in primary care (6th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

LeBlond, R. F., Brown, D. D., & DeGowin, R. L. (2014). DeGowin’s diagnostic examination (10th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw Hill Medical.

Detailed Assessment Instructions for the NURS 6512 Assessing the Abdomen Lab Assignment

Week 6: Assessment of the Abdomen and Gastrointestinal System

On your way home from dinner, you start experiencing sharp pains in your abdomen. You ate seafood—could you have food poisoning? What else might be causing your pain? Appendicitis? Should you head to the emergency room, or should you wait and see how you feel in the morning?

Numerous ailments can affect the GI system and the abdomen. Because the organs are so close, it can be difficult to conduct an accurate assessment. Also, pain in another area of the body can affect the GI system. For example, patients with chronic migraines often report nausea.

This week, you will explore how to assess the abdomen and gastrointestinal system.

Learning Objectives

Students will:

  • Evaluate abnormal abdomen and gastrointestinal findings
  • Apply concepts, theories, and principles relating to health assessment techniques and diagnoses for the abdomen and gastrointestinal system
  • Identify concepts, theories, and principles related to advanced health assessment

Learning Resources

Required Readings

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

  • Chapter 6, “Vital Signs and Pain Assessment”

This chapter describes the experience of pain and its causes. The authors also describe the process of pain assessment.

  • Chapter 18, “Abdomen”

In this chapter, the authors summarize the anatomy and physiology of the abdomen. The authors also explain how to conduct an assessment of the abdomen.

Dains, J. E., Baumann, L. C., & Scheibel, P. (2019). Advanced health assessment and clinical diagnosis in primary care (6th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Advanced Health Assessment and Clinical Diagnosis in Primary Care, 6th Edition by Dains, J.E., Baumann, L. C., & Scheibel, P. Copyright 2019 by Mosby. Reprinted by permission of Mosby via the Copyright Clearance Center.

  • Chapter 3, “Abdominal Pain”

This chapter outlines how to collect a focused history on abdominal pain. This is followed by what to look for in a physical examination in order to make an accurate diagnosis.

  • Chapter 10, “Constipation”

The focus of this chapter is on identifying the causes of constipation through taking a focused history, conducting physical examinations, and performing laboratory tests.

  • Chapter 12, “Diarrhea”

In this chapter, the authors focus on diagnosing the cause of diarrhea. The chapter includes questions to ask patients about the condition, things to look for in a physical exam, and suggested laboratory or diagnostic studies to perform.

  • Chapter 29, “Rectal Pain, Itching, and Bleeding”

This chapter focuses on how to diagnose rectal bleeding and pain. It includes a table containing possible diagnoses, the accompanying physical signs, and suggested diagnostic studies.

Colyar, M. R. (2015). Advanced practice nursing procedures. Philadelphia, PA: F. A. Davis.

Credit Line: Advanced practice nursing procedures, 1st Edition by Colyar, M. R. Copyright 2015 by F. A. Davis Company. Reprinted by permission of F. A. Davis Company via the Copyright Clearance Center.

These sections below explain the procedural knowledge needed to perform gastrointestinal procedures.

Chapter 107, “X-Ray Interpretation: Chest (pp. 480–487)

Chapter 115, “X-Ray Interpretation of Abdomen” (pp. 514–520)

Note: Download this Student Checklist and Abdomen Key Points to use during your practice abdominal examination.

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Abdomen: Student checklist. In Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination, 9th Edition by Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. Copyright 2019 by Elsevier Health Sciences. Reprinted by permission of Elsevier Health Sciences via the Copyright Clearance Center.

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Abdomen: Key points. In Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination, 9th Edition by Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. Copyright 2019 by Elsevier Health Sciences. Reprinted by permission of Elsevier Health Sciences via the Copyright Clearance Center.

Document: Midterm Exam Review (Word document)

Optional Resource

LeBlond, R. F., Brown, D. D., & DeGowin, R. L. (2014). DeGowin’s diagnostic examination (10th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw Hill Medical.

  • Chapter 9, “The Abdomen, Perineum, Anus, and Rectosigmoid” (pp. 445–527)

This chapter explores the health assessment processes for the abdomen, perineum, anus, and rectosigmoid. This chapter also examines the symptoms of many conditions in these areas.

  • Chapter 10, “The Urinary System” (pp. 528–540)

In this chapter, the authors provide an overview of the physiology of the urinary system. The chapter also lists symptoms and conditions of the urinary system.

Required Media

Assessment of the Abdomen and Gastrointestinal System – Week 6 (14m)

Online media for Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination

It is highly recommended that you access and view the resources included with the course text, Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination. Focus on the videos and animations in Chapter 17 that relate to the assessment of the abdomen and gastrointestinal system. Refer to Week 4 for access instructions on https://evolve.elsevier.com/

Assignment 1: Lab Assignment: Assessing the Abdomen

A woman went to the emergency room for severe abdominal cramping. She was diagnosed with diverticulitis; however, as a precaution, the doctor ordered a CT scan. The CT scan revealed a growth on the pancreas, which turned out to be pancreatic cancer—the real cause of the cramping.

Because of a high potential for misdiagnosis, determining the precise cause of abdominal pain can be time consuming and challenging. By analyzing case studies of abnormal abdominal findings, nurses can prepare themselves to better diagnose conditions in the abdomen.

In this Lab Assignment, you will analyze an Episodic note case study that describes abnormal findings in patients seen in a clinical setting. You will consider what history should be collected from the patients as well as which physical exams and diagnostic tests should be conducted. You will also formulate a differential diagnosis with several possible conditions.

To Prepare

Review the Episodic note case study your instructor provides you for this week’s Assignment. Please see the “Course Announcements” section of the classroom for your Episodic note case study.

  • With regard to the Episodic note case study provided:
    • Review this week’s Learning Resources, and consider the insights they provide about the case study.
    • Consider what history would be necessary to collect from the patient in the case study.
    • Consider what physical exams and diagnostic tests would be appropriate to gather more information about the patient’s condition. How would the results be used to make a diagnosis?
    • Identify at least five possible conditions that may be considered in a differential diagnosis for the patient.

The Assignment

  1. Analyze the subjective portion of the note. List additional information that should be included in the documentation.
  2. Analyze the objective portion of the note. List additional information that should be included in the documentation.
  3. Is the assessment supported by the subjective and objective information? Why or why not?
  4. What diagnostic tests would be appropriate for this case, and how would the results be used to make a diagnosis?
  5. Would you reject/accept the current diagnosis? Why or why not? Identify three possible conditions that may be considered as a differential diagnosis for this patient. Explain your reasoning using at least three different references from current evidence-based literature.

By Day 7 of Week 6

Submit your Lab Assignment.

Submission and Grading Information

To submit your completed Assignment for review and grading, do the following:

  • Please save your Assignment using the naming convention “WK6Assgn1+last name+first initial. (extension)” as the name.
  • Click the Week 6 Assignment 1 Rubric to review the Grading Criteria for the Assignment.
  • Click the Week 6 Assignment 1 link. You will also be able to “View Rubric” for grading criteria from this area.
  • Next, from the Attach File area, click on the Browse My Computer button. Find the document you saved as “WK6Assgn1+last name+first initial. (extension)” and click Open.
  • If applicable: From the Plagiarism Tools area, click the checkbox for I agree to submit my paper(s) to the Global Reference Database.
  • Click on the Submit button to complete your submission.

Grading Criteria

To access your rubric:

Week 6 Assignment 1 Rubric

Check Your Assignment Draft for Authenticity

To check your Assignment draft for authenticity:

Submit your Week 6 Assignment 1 draft and review the originality report.

Submit Your Assignment by Day 7 of Week 6

To participate in this Assignment:

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NURS 6512 Assessing the Head Eyes Ears Nose and Throat Case Study Assignment Example

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NURS 6512 Assessing the Head Eyes Ears Nose and Throat Case Study Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Assessing the Head, Eyes, Ears, Nose, and Throat Case Study AssignmentNURS 6512 Assessing the Head, Eyes, Ears, Nose, and Throat Case Study Assignment

NURS 6512 Assessing the Head Eyes Ears Nose and Throat Case Study Assignment Brief

Course: NURS 6512 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning

Assignment Title: NURS 6512 Assessing the Head, Eyes, Ears, Nose, and Throat Case Study Assignment

Assignment Instructions Overview

In this assignment, you will engage in a case study focusing on assessing conditions related to the head, eyes, ears, nose, and throat (HEENT). The goal is to apply clinical reasoning skills to differentiate between benign and potentially life-threatening conditions, thereby determining appropriate diagnostic tests and differential diagnoses.

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Understanding Assignment Objectives

The objective of this assignment is to simulate a clinical scenario where you will evaluate abnormal findings in patients presenting with HEENT issues. You will formulate an episodic/focused SOAP note, detailing the patient’s history, physical exams, diagnostic tests, and differential diagnoses based on evidence from the literature.

The Student’s Role

As a student, your role is to critically analyze the provided case study, identify pertinent patient data, and apply clinical assessment skills to recommend appropriate diagnostic procedures. You will demonstrate proficiency in constructing an episodic/focused SOAP note format, integrating findings from scholarly sources to support your clinical decisions.

Competencies Measured

This assignment measures competencies in clinical assessment, differential diagnosis formulation, evidence-based practice application, and effective communication through the episodic/focused SOAP note format. It evaluates your ability to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical clinical scenarios in the context of HEENT assessments.

You Can Also Check Other Related Assessments for the NURS 6512 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning Course:

NURS 6512 Diversity and Health Assessments Discussion Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Differential Diagnosis for Skin Conditions Lab Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Building a Comprehensive Health History Discussion Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Assessment Tools and Diagnostic Tests in Adults and Children Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Assessing the Abdomen Lab Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Assessing the Head Eyes Ears Nose and Throat Case Study Assignment Example

NURS 6512 – Case Study Assignment: Assessing the Head, Eyes, Ears, Nose, and Throat Episodic/Focused SOAP Note Template

Patient Information:

  • Age/Gender/Race: 65-year-old African American male
  • Chief Complaint (CC): Chest pain

History of Present Illness (HPI):

The patient, a 65-year-old African American male, presented with sudden onset crushing chest pain early in the morning, rated 9/10 in severity. The pain is located centrally in the chest and is accompanied by shortness of breath and nausea. Despite taking antacids, the symptoms have not significantly improved. The patient has a history of GERD and well-controlled hypertension. Family history includes the mother’s death at 78 due to breast cancer and the father’s death at 75 due to CVA. There is no known premature cardiac disease in immediate family members. Socially, the patient consumes moderate alcohol and does not use tobacco.

Review of Systems (ROS):

  • General: Denies fever, chills, or fatigue.
  • Cardiovascular: No orthopnea; positive for sporadic lower extremity edema.
  • Gastrointestinal: Positive for nausea without vomiting.

Objective (O):

  • Vital Signs (VS): BP 186/102 mmHg, P 94 bpm, R 22 bpm, T 97.8°F, O2 saturation 96%, Weight 235 lbs, Height 70 inches.
  • Physical Exam:
    • Cardiovascular: Diaphoretic and restless, PMI in 5th intercostal space at mid-clavicular line, grade 2/6 systolic decrescendo murmur at 2nd right intercostal space radiating to neck, third heart sound at apex, bilateral 2+ lower extremity edema.
    • Abdominal: No distention or masses, normal bowel sounds, bruit in right paraumbilical area, mid-epigastric tenderness on deep palpation.
  • Diagnostic Results: EKG, CXR, CK-MB tests conducted.

Assessment (A):

Differential Diagnoses:

  • GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease): Chronic acid reflux causing chest pain.
  • Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Thickening of the heart muscle leading to chest pain, shortness of breath, and potential murmurs.
  • Myocardial Ischemia: Reduced blood flow to the heart causing oxygen deprivation, resulting in chest pain and dyspnea.
  • Pulmonary Embolism: Blockage of pulmonary arteries by blood clots, leading to chest pain and shortness of breath.
  • COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease): Chronic lung disease causing airflow obstruction, chest discomfort, and dyspnea.

Plan (P):

  • Further diagnostics: Recommend continuation of EKG monitoring, CXR review, and CK-MB analysis to assess cardiac function and rule out pulmonary issues.
  • Management: Initiate treatment for suspected conditions based on diagnostic findings, including potential adjustments to antacid therapy and consideration of cardiac medications.
  • Referral: Consult with cardiology for comprehensive evaluation and management of suspected cardiovascular conditions.
  • Patient education: Provide guidance on lifestyle modifications to manage GERD symptoms and hypertension, including dietary changes and stress reduction techniques.

References

Balogh E, Miller B, Ball J. The Diagnostic Process. Retrieved from [source].

Chamley R, Holdsworth D, Rajappan K, Nicol E. ECG interpretation. European Heart Journal, 40(32), 2663-2666. doi: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehz559

Haber J et al. Putting the Mouth Back in the Head: HEENT to HEENOT. Am J Public Health, 105(3), 437-441. doi: 10.2105/ajph.2014.302495

Heusch G. Myocardial Ischemia. Circ Res, 119(2), 194-196. doi: 10.1161/circresaha.116.308925

Marian A, Braunwald E. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. Circ Res, 121(7), 749-770. doi: 10.1161/circresaha.117.311059

Qureshi H, Sharafkhaneh A, Hanania N. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbations: latest evidence and clinical implications. Ther Adv Chronic Dis, 5(5), 212-227. doi: 10.1177/2040622314532862

Detailed Assessment Instructions for the NURS 6512 Assessing the Head Eyes Ears Nose and Throat Case Study Assignment

Assignment 1: Case Study Assignment: Assessing the Head, Eyes, Ears, Nose, and Throat

Most ear, nose, and throat conditions that arise in non-critical care settings are minor in nature. However, subtle symptoms can sometimes escalate into life-threatening conditions that require prompt assessment and treatment.

Nurses conducting assessments of the ears, nose, and throat must be able to identify the small differences between life-threatening conditions and benign ones. For instance, if a patient with a sore throat and a runny nose also has inflamed lymph nodes, the inflammation is probably due to the pathogen causing the sore throat rather than a case of throat cancer. With this knowledge and a sufficient patient health history, a nurse would not need to escalate the assessment to a biopsy or an MRI of the lymph nodes but would probably perform a simple strep test.

In this Case Study Assignment, you consider case studies of abnormal findings from patients in a clinical setting. You determine what history should be collected from the patients, what physical exams and diagnostic tests should be conducted, and formulate a differential diagnosis with several possible conditions.

To Prepare

  • By Day 1 of this week, you will be assigned to a specific case study for this Case Study Assignment. Please see the “Course Announcements” section of the classroom for your assignment from your Instructor.
  • Also, your Case Study Assignment should be in the Episodic/Focused SOAP Note format rather than the traditional narrative style format. Refer to Chapter 2 of the Sullivan text and the Episodic/Focused SOAP Template in the Week 5 Learning Resources for guidance. Remember that all Episodic/Focused SOAP Notes have specific data included in every patient case.

With regard to the case study you were assigned:

  • Review this week’s Learning Resources and consider the insights they provide.
  • Consider what history would be necessary to collect from the patient.
  • Consider what physical exams and diagnostic tests would be appropriate to gather more information about the patient’s condition. How would the results be used to make a diagnosis?
  • Identify at least five possible conditions that may be considered in a differential diagnosis for the patient.

The Assignment

Use the Episodic/Focused SOAP Template and create an episodic/focused note about the patient in the case study to which you were assigned using the episodic/focused note template provided in the Week 5 resources. Provide evidence from the literature to support diagnostic tests that would be appropriate for each case. List five different possible conditions for the patient’s differential diagnosis and justify why you selected each.

By Day 6 of Week 5

Submit your Assignment.

Submission and Grading Information

To submit your completed Assignment for review and grading, do the following:

  • Please save your Assignment using the naming convention “WK5Assgn1+last name+first initial.(extension)” as the name.
  • Click the Week 5 Assignment 1 Rubric to review the Grading Criteria for the Assignment.
  • Click the Week 5 Assignment 1 link. You will also be able to “View Rubric” for grading criteria from this area.
  • Next, from the Attach File area, click on the Browse My Computer button. Find the document you saved as “WK5Assgn1+last name+first initial.(extension)” and click Open.
  • If applicable: From the Plagiarism Tools area, click the checkbox for I agree to submit my paper(s) to the Global Reference Database.
  • Click on the Submit button to complete your submission.

Grading Criteria

To access your rubric:

Week 5 Assignment 1 Rubric

Check Your Assignment Draft for Authenticity

To check your Assignment draft for authenticity:

Submit your Week 5 Assignment 1 draft and review the originality report.

Submit Your Assignment by Day 6 of Week 5

To participate in this Assignment:

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NURS 6512 Assessment Tools and Diagnostic Tests in Adults and Children Assignment Example

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NURS 6512 Assessment Tools and Diagnostic Tests in Adults and Children Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Assessment Tools and Diagnostic Tests in Adults and Children AssignmentNURS 6512 Assessment Tools and Diagnostic Tests in Adults and Children Assignment

NURS 6512 Assessment Tools and Diagnostic Tests in Adults and Children Assignment Brief

Course: NURS 6512 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning

Assignment Title: NURS 6512 Assessment Tools and Diagnostic Tests in Adults and Children Assignment

Assignment Instructions Overview

In this assignment, you will explore the application of assessment tools and diagnostic tests used by advanced practice nurses to evaluate patient health conditions. Understanding the validity and reliability of these tools is crucial for accurate diagnosis and patient management. For pediatric cases, considerations such as growth, measurements, and nutrition play significant roles in assessing health risks and recommending interventions.

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Understanding Assignment Objectives

The primary objective of this assignment is to assess your understanding of assessment tools and diagnostic tests in healthcare settings, both for adults and children. You will evaluate the purpose, conduct, and information gathered by these tools. Additionally, you will critically analyze factors influencing their validity, reliability, sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values. For child health cases, you will identify relevant health risks, determine necessary information for comprehensive assessment, and develop strategies to engage parents or caregivers in proactive health management.

The Student’s Role

As a student, your role is to conduct comprehensive research on the assigned assessment tool or diagnostic test. You will analyze its clinical utility, strengths, and limitations based on current literature. For child health cases, you will identify potential health risks and formulate sensitive approaches to gather necessary information from parents or caregivers.

Competencies Measured

This assignment assesses your ability to:

  • Analyze the purpose and use of assessment tools and diagnostic tests in healthcare.
  • Evaluate the validity, reliability, sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values of selected tools.
  • Identify and assess health risks relevant to pediatric patients.
  • Develop effective communication strategies to engage parents or caregivers in proactive health practices.

You Can Also Check Other Related Assessments for the NURS 6512 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning Course:

NURS 6512 Diversity and Health Assessments Discussion Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Differential Diagnosis for Skin Conditions Lab Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Building a Comprehensive Health History Discussion Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Assessing the Head, Eyes, Ears, Nose, and Throat Case Study Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Assessing the Abdomen Lab Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Assessment Tools and Diagnostic Tests in Adults and Children Assignment Example

Uses of BMI in Healthcare

Body Mass Index (BMI) serves as a widely used anthropometric measurement to estimate body fat by comparing an individual’s weight to their height. This metric is essential for public health purposes, providing clear indications of whether individuals have an ideal weight for their height (Hall & Cole, 2016). Primarily, BMI categorizes individuals into groups such as underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obese, helping identify those at risk for chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and hypertension (Hall & Cole, 2016). For adults, BMI remains unaffected by age or sex. However, for children and adolescents, age and sex are critical factors due to the different growth rates and body fat levels in boys and girls. Consequently, BMI measurements for this younger population must be plotted on a sex-specific BMI-for-age growth chart (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2018). Children are classified as obese if their BMI-for-age is at or above the 95th percentile and overweight if it is between the 85th and 94th percentiles (CDC, 2018).

BMI’s Validity and Reliability

The validity and reliability of BMI as a tool for assessing body fat and obesity risk are subjects of ongoing debate. Validity refers to the tool’s accuracy in measuring what it intends to measure, while reliability denotes the consistency of these measurements. The accuracy of BMI in estimating body fat across different populations and individuals is often questioned. Factors such as age, physical activity, ethnicity, and gender can significantly influence the relationship between BMI and actual body fat percentage (Freedman & Sherry, 2015). As individuals age, changes in body composition, such as decreased muscle mass and increased visceral fat, can occur even if overall body weight remains stable (Zhang et al., 2018). Health risks correlate more closely with visceral fat, which BMI does not measure accurately. Thus, BMI may not always reliably indicate an individual’s health, particularly in children who exhibit significant variations in body composition based on sex and developmental stage. Moreover, ethnic differences in body composition mean that BMI thresholds may not equally predict health risks across various racial groups (Freedman & Sherry, 2015).

Health Issues/Risks Relevant to the 5-Year-Old Overweight African American Boy

The 5-year-old African American boy faces significant health risks due to his overweight status and low physical activity levels. These risks include elevated cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, and a predisposition to cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, respiratory issues such as sleep apnea and asthma pose significant concerns. The boy also risks developing impaired glucose tolerance, potentially leading to type 2 diabetes, as well as fatty liver disease, musculoskeletal discomfort, gastroesophageal reflux, and gallstones (Gibbs & Chapman-Novakofski, 2012).

Additional Information Needed

To thoroughly assess the boy’s weight-related health, gathering detailed information about his dietary habits is essential. This includes data on the types of food consumed, meal frequency, portion sizes, nutritional quality, snack consumption, food preparation methods, and the mealtime environment (Gibbs & Chapman-Novakofski, 2012). Understanding his physical activity levels, including the types and frequency of physical activities, is also crucial.

Identification of Risks to the Child’s Health

Examining the child’s dietary intake and social behaviors, such as playing with friends, enables healthcare providers to identify specific health risks. A diet high in fast foods and processed snacks, combined with a lack of physical activity, increases the child’s susceptibility to obesity and related health issues. Gathering this sensitive information from parents can be achieved by clearly explaining the study’s objectives and the benefits it can bring to their child’s health. Ensuring confidentiality will also encourage parental cooperation (Ball et al., 2019).

Specific Questions Relating to the Child

  1. How many meals does the child consume daily?
  2. What is the composition of the meals consumed throughout the day?
  3. Is the child involved in any physical activities? How frequently?

Strategies to Help Parents Control the Child’s Weight and Health

Promoting physical activity and providing nutritional guidance are essential strategies for parents. Encouraging the child to engage in daily physical activities, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, ideally involving the parents, fosters a supportive environment. Providing educational materials like a food pyramid can assist parents in planning balanced and nutritious meals, thereby guiding healthier food choices and controlling portion sizes. These measures contribute to gradual and sustainable weight loss (Ball et al., 2019).

References

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2018). Childhood overweight and obesity. Retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/obesity/childhood.

Freedman, D. S., & Sherry, B. (2015). The validity of BMI as an indicator of body fatness and risk among children. Pediatrics, 124(Supplement 1), S23–S34. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2008-3586e

Gibbs, H., & Chapman-Novakofski, K. (2012). Exploring nutrition literacy: Attention to assessment and the skills clients need. Health, 4(3), 120–124.

Hall, D. M., & Cole, T. J. (2016). What use is the BMI?. Archives of Disease in Childhood, 91(4), 283–286. https://doi.org/10.1136/adc.2005.077339

Zhang, L., Fos, P. J., Johnson, W. D., Kamali, V., Cox, R. G., Zuniga, M. A., & Kittle, T. (2018). Body mass index and health-related quality of life in elementary school children: A pilot study. Health and Quality of Life Outcomes, 6, 77. https://doi.org/10.1186/1477-7525-6-77

Detailed Assessment Instructions for the NURS 6512 Assessment Tools and Diagnostic Tests in Adults and Children Assignment

Assessment Tool, Diagnostics, Growth, Measurements, and Nutrition in Adults and Children – Week 3 (11m)

Assignment 1: Case Study Assignment: Assessment Tools and Diagnostic Tests in Adults and Children

When seeking to identify a patient’s health condition, advanced practice nurses can use a diverse selection of diagnostic tests and assessment tools; however, different factors affect the validity and reliability of the results produced by these tests or tools. Nurses must be aware of these factors in order to select the most appropriate test or tool and to accurately interpret the results.

Not only do these diagnostic tests affect adults, body measurements can provide a general picture of whether a child is receiving adequate nutrition or is at risk for health issues. These data, however, are just one aspect to be considered. Lifestyle, family history, and culture—among other factors—are also relevant. That said, gathering and communicating this information can be a delicate process.

For this Assignment, you will consider the validity and reliability of different assessment tools and diagnostic tests. You will explore issues such as sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values. You will also consider examples of children with various weight issues. You will explore how you could effectively gather information and encourage parents and caregivers to be proactive about their children’s health and weight.

To Prepare

  • Review this week’s Learning Resources and consider factors that impact the validity and reliability of various assessment tools and diagnostic tests. You also will review examples of pediatric patients and their families as it relates to BMI.
  • By Day 1 of this week, you will be assigned to one of the following Assignment options by your Instructor: Adult Assessment Tools or Diagnostic Tests (option 1), or Child Health Case (Option 2). Note: Please see the “Course Announcements” section of the classroom for your assignments from your Instructor.
  • Search the Walden Library and credible sources for resources explaining the tool or test you were assigned. What is its purpose, how is it conducted, and what information does it gather?
  • Also, as you search the Walden library and credible sources, consider what the literature discusses regarding the validity, reliability, sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, ethical dilemmas, and controversies related to the test or tool.
  • If you are assigned Assignment Option 2 (Child), consider what health issues and risks may be relevant to the child in the health example.
    • Based on the risks you identified, consider what further information you would need to gain a full understanding of the child’s health. Think about how you could gather this information in a sensitive fashion.
    • Consider how you could encourage parents or caregivers to be proactive toward the child’s health.

The Assignment

Assignment (3–4 pages, not including title and reference pages):

Assignment Option 1: Adult Assessment Tools or Diagnostic Tests:

Include the following:

  • A description of how the assessment tool or diagnostic test you were assigned is used in healthcare.
    • What is its purpose?
    • How is it conducted?
    • What information does it gather?
  • Based on your research, evaluate the test or the tool’s validity and reliability, and explain any issues with sensitivity, reliability, and predictive values. Include references in appropriate APA formatting.
Assignment Option 2: Child Health Case:

Include the following:

  • An explanation of the health issues and risks that are relevant to the child you were assigned.
  • Describe additional information you would need in order to further assess his or her weight-related health.
  • Identify and describe any risks and consider what further information you would need to gain a full understanding of the child’s health. Think about how you could gather this information in a sensitive fashion.
  • Taking into account the parents’ and caregivers’ potential sensitivities, list at least three specific questions you would ask about the child to gather more information.
  • Provide at least two strategies you could employ to encourage the parents or caregivers to be proactive about their child’s health and weight.

By Day 6 of Week 3

Submit your Assignment.

Submission and Grading Information

To submit your completed Assignment for review and grading, do the following:

  • Please save your Assignment using the naming convention “WK3Assgn1+last name+first initial.(extension)” as the name.
  • Click the Week 3 Assignment 1 Rubric to review the Grading Criteria for the Assignment.
  • Click the Week 3 Assignment 1 link. You will also be able to “View Rubric” for grading criteria from this area.
  • Next, from the Attach File area, click on the Browse My Computer button. Find the document you saved as “WK3Assgn1+last name+first initial.(extension)” and click Open.
  • If applicable: From the Plagiarism Tools area, click the checkbox for I agree to submit my paper(s) to the Global Reference Database.
  • Click on the Submit button to complete your submission.

Grading Criteria

To access your rubric:

Week 3 Assignment 1 Option 1 Rubric

To access your rubric:

Week 3 Assignment 1 Option 2 Rubric

To check your Assignment draft for authenticity:

Submit your Week 3 Assignment 1 draft and review the originality report.

Submit Your Assignment by Day 6 of Week 3

To participate in this Assignment:

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NURS 6512 Building a Comprehensive Health History Discussion Paper Example

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NURS 6512 Building a Comprehensive Health History Discussion Paper Example

NURS 6512 Building a Comprehensive Health History Discussion AssignmentNURS 6512 Building a Comprehensive Health History Discussion Assignment

NURS 6512 Building a Comprehensive Health History Discussion Assignment Brief

Course: NURS 6512 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning

Assignment Title: NURS 6512 Building a Comprehensive Health History Discussion Assignment

Assignment Instructions Overview

Effective communication is vital for constructing an accurate and detailed patient history. Various factors, including age, gender, ethnicity, and environmental setting, significantly influence a patient’s health or illness. Advanced practice nurses must tailor their communication techniques to these factors to establish rapport and effectively gather information. This discussion involves building a health history for a newly assigned patient, considering their unique characteristics and health risks.

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Understanding Assignment Objectives

The primary objective of this assignment is to develop skills in collecting comprehensive health histories through effective communication. This involves understanding the importance of individualized communication strategies that address the specific needs of patients based on their demographic and environmental contexts. The assignment also aims to enhance the ability to utilize appropriate risk assessment tools and identify potential health-related risks.

Competencies Measured

This assignment measures competencies in several key areas:

  • Communication Skills: Demonstrates the ability to tailor interview techniques to individual patient needs.
  • Cultural Competency: Shows awareness and integration of the patient’s cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic background into the health history.
  • Risk Assessment: Proficient in identifying and utilizing appropriate risk assessment instruments.
  • Critical Thinking: Develops targeted questions that effectively probe health risks and concerns.

You Can Also Check Other Related Assessments for the NURS 6512 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning Course:

NURS 6512 Diversity and Health Assessments Discussion Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Differential Diagnosis for Skin Conditions Lab Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Assessment Tools and Diagnostic Tests in Adults and Children Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Assessing the Head, Eyes, Ears, Nose, and Throat Case Study Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Assessing the Abdomen Lab Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Building a Comprehensive Health History Discussion Paper Example

Building a Comprehensive Health History for a 38-Year-Old Native American Pregnant Female

Effective communication skills are crucial for obtaining an accurate and comprehensive health history from patients. These skills not only foster a positive patient-provider relationship but also ensure higher patient satisfaction and compliance (Berman & Chutka, 2016). According to Berman and Chutka (2016), patients often express dissatisfaction with healthcare providers who do not listen attentively. Communication encompasses not only verbal exchanges but also active listening and nonverbal cues, such as facial expressions, nodding, and body posture, which convey empathy and support (Hashim, 2017). This discussion will focus on the specific techniques and considerations necessary for interviewing a 38-year-old Native American pregnant female living on a reservation.

Communication Techniques with Rationale

The interview with this patient must prioritize cultural competence and sensitivity. Native American communities often face significant health disparities, unemployment, and overcrowded living conditions, which impact overall health and access to care (Native American Aid, 2015). Understanding the patient’s cultural background is essential for building trust and ensuring effective communication. The healthcare provider must use language and literacy levels appropriate for the patient and ensure the availability of professional interpreter services if necessary. This approach will help in gathering comprehensive information regarding the patient’s medical history, family health history, and environmental and behavioral risk factors (Sullivan, 2019).

Selected Risk Assessment Instrument with Rationale

In this scenario, the HEEADSSS screening tool is particularly appropriate for assessing the patient’s health risks. The HEEADSSS interview framework evaluates the home environment, education and employment, eating habits, peer-related activities, drug use, sexuality, mental health (suicide/depression), and safety from injury and violence (Klein, Goldenring, & Adelman, 2015). Given the higher prevalence of substance use and mental health issues in Native American communities (Park-Lee, Lipari, Bose, & Hughes, 2018), this tool is effective in identifying potential health threats to both the mother and her unborn child.

The following targeted questions are designed to assess the health risks of the patient and begin building a comprehensive health history:

  1. Is this your first pregnancy?
  2. How are you feeling about being pregnant?
  3. When was your last menstrual cycle?
  4. When was the last time you consumed alcohol or used illicit drugs?
  5. Do you have any existing health problems or medical conditions?

Introducing oneself to the patient and any accompanying individuals is the first step in the interview. Addressing the patient by their preferred name and ensuring that the consultation is not rushed are essential for building rapport and trust (Berman & Chutka, 2016). The healthcare provider must maintain consistent eye contact and use nonverbal communication effectively to demonstrate interest and empathy (Hashim, 2017). Open-ended questions will facilitate understanding of the patient’s perspective and provide opportunities for the patient to express concerns (Hashim, 2017).

In addition to verbal communication, the provider must be aware of the patient’s unspoken issues and gently probe when necessary. The “ask-tell-ask” approach is recommended to avoid overwhelming the patient with information and to ensure they understand the information provided (Berman & Chutka, 2016). Proper closure of the interview, with an invitation for the patient to ask additional questions, is important to address any lingering concerns (Hashim, 2017).

In summary, building a comprehensive health history for a 38-year-old Native American pregnant female requires cultural competence, effective communication skills, and appropriate use of risk assessment tools. The HEEADSSS screening tool is particularly useful for identifying health risks in this context. Through a combination of verbal and nonverbal communication techniques, the healthcare provider can gather the necessary information to ensure the patient’s health and well-being.

References

Berman, A. C., & Chutka, D. S. (2016). Assessing effective physician-patient communication skills: “Are you listening to me, doc?” Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 91(2), 173-181.

Hashim, M. J. (2017). Patient-centered communication: Basic skills. American Family Physician, 95(1), 29-34.

Klein, D. A., Goldenring, J. M., & Adelman, W. P. (2015). HEEADSSS 3.0: The psychosocial interview for adolescents updated for a new century fueled by media. Contemporary Pediatrics, 32(1), 16-28.

Native American Aid. (2015). Living conditions. Retrieved June 2, 2020, from http://www.nativepartnership.org/site/PageServer?pagename=naa_livingconditions

Park-Lee, E., Lipari, R. N., Bose, J., & Hughes, A. (2018). Substance use and mental health issues among U.S.-born American Indians or Alaska natives residing on and off tribal lands. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/cbhsq-reports/DRAIANTribalAreas2018/DRAIANTribalAreas2018.pdf

Sullivan, D. D. (2019). Guide to clinical documentation (3rd ed.). Philadelphia, PA: F. A. Davis.

Response to Colleague 1: Interview Techniques and Health Risks for an Adolescent Hispanic Male

The approach to constructing a comprehensive health history for an adolescent Hispanic male demonstrates a thorough understanding of culturally sensitive communication. Enhancing this strategy with additional interview and communication techniques may further improve patient outcomes.

Additional Interview and Communication Techniques

Implementing motivational interviewing can significantly engage adolescents in identifying their motivations for behavior change, which is crucial for addressing issues like substance use or risky behaviors (Miller & Rollnick, 2013). Additionally, involving family members in the interview process, with the adolescent’s consent, aligns with the cultural significance of family in decision-making within Hispanic communities (Cabassa, 2010). Utilizing visual aids such as diagrams, charts, or videos to explain medical concepts can enhance understanding and retention, particularly for discussing complex issues like sexual health or substance abuse.

Additional Health-Related Risks

Identifying potential mental health issues is vital, given the higher risk for depression and anxiety among Hispanic adolescents, often linked to acculturation stress and discrimination (Lorenzo-Blanco et al., 2012). Moreover, the increased risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes within this demographic necessitates inquiries about dietary habits, physical activity, and family history of these conditions (Cruz, 2019).

References

Cabassa, L. J. (2010). Latino immigrant men’s perceptions of depression and attitudes toward help seeking. Hispanic Journal of Behavioral Sciences, 32(3), 345-363.

Cruz, M. L. (2019). The increasing prevalence of obesity and diabetes among Hispanics in the United States. Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice, 12(2), 82-90.

Lorenzo-Blanco, E. I., Unger, J. B., Oshri, A., Baezconde-Garbanati, L., & Soto, D. (2012). Acculturation, enculturation, and symptoms of depression in Hispanic youth: The roles of gender, Hispanic cultural values, and family functioning. Journal of Youth and Adolescence, 41(10), 1350-1365.

Miller, W. R., & Rollnick, S. (2013). Motivational interviewing: Helping people change (3rd ed.). New York, NY: Guilford Press.

Response to Colleague 2: Interview Techniques and Health Risks for an Elderly African American Male with Cardiovascular Disease

The outlined strategies for interviewing an elderly African American male with cardiovascular disease are effective. Expanding on these techniques and considering additional health risks will enhance patient care.

Additional Interview and Communication Techniques

Using the teach-back method ensures the patient comprehends the provided information by having them repeat it in their own words, which is particularly important for managing chronic conditions like cardiovascular disease (Schillinger et al., 2003). Addressing cultural health beliefs helps tailor care plans to be more acceptable and effective, considering some African American patients might use home remedies or have specific dietary practices impacting cardiovascular health (Mayo Clinic, 2020). Engaging the patient’s social support systems, such as family, friends, or community organizations, improves adherence to treatment plans, especially for elderly patients who might struggle with isolation or transportation to appointments (Berkman et al., 2000).

Additional Health-Related Risks

Given the higher prevalence of hypertension among African American males, hypertension management through regular monitoring and adherence to antihypertensive medications is crucial (Lackland, 2014). Additionally, due to the increased risk for chronic kidney disease associated with hypertension and diabetes, regular screening for kidney function should be prioritized (Norris & Agodoa, 2005). Addressing medication adherence challenges, often due to polypharmacy, side effects, or cognitive decline, can be managed through strategies like simplifying medication regimens or using pill organizers (Krousel-Wood et al., 2004).

References

Berkman, L. F., Glass, T., Brissette, I., & Seeman, T. E. (2000). From social integration to health: Durkheim in the new millennium. Social Science & Medicine, 51(6), 843-857.

Krousel-Wood, M., Thomas, S., Muntner, P., & Morisky, D. (2004). Medication adherence: A key factor in achieving blood pressure control and good clinical outcomes in hypertensive patients. Current Opinion in Cardiology, 19(4), 357-362.

Lackland, D. T. (2014). Racial differences in hypertension: Implications for high blood pressure management. American Journal of the Medical Sciences, 348(2), 135-138.

Mayo Clinic. (2020). Cardiovascular disease in African Americans. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org

Norris, K., & Agodoa, L. (2005). Unraveling the racial disparities associated with kidney disease. Kidney International, 68(3), 914-924.

Schillinger, D., Piette, J., Grumbach, K., Wang, F., Wilson, C., Daher, C., … & Bindman, A. B. (2003). Closing the loop: Physician communication with diabetic patients who have low health literacy. Archives of Internal Medicine, 163(1), 83-90.

Detailed Assessment Instructions for the NURS 6512 Building a Comprehensive Health History Discussion Assignment

Discussion: Building a Health History

Effective communication is vital to constructing an accurate and detailed patient history. A patient’s health or illness is influenced by many factors, including age, gender, ethnicity, and environmental setting. As an advanced practice nurse, you must be aware of these factors and tailor your communication techniques accordingly. Doing so will not only help you establish rapport with your patients, but it will also enable you to more effectively gather the information needed to assess your patients’ health risks.

For this Discussion, you will take on the role of a clinician who is building a health history for a particular new patient assigned by your Instructor.

Photo Credit: Sam Edwards / Caiaimage / Getty Images

To prepare:

With the information presented in Chapter 1 of Ball et al. in mind, consider the following:

  • By Day 1 of this week, you will be assigned a new patient profile by your Instructor for this Discussion. Note: Please see the “Course Announcements” section of the classroom for your new patient profile assignment.
  • How would your communication and interview techniques for building a health history differ with each patient?
  • How might you target your questions for building a health history based on the patient’s social determinants of health?
  • What risk assessment instruments would be appropriate to use with each patient, or what questions would you ask each patient to assess his or her health risks?
  • Identify any potential health-related risks based upon the patient’s age, gender, ethnicity, or environmental setting that should be taken into consideration.
  • Select one of the risk assessment instruments presented in Chapter 1 or Chapter 5 of the Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination text, or another tool with which you are familiar, related to your selected patient.
  • Develop at least five targeted questions you would ask your selected patient to assess his or her health risks and begin building a health history Building a Health History NURS 6512 week 1 Discussion Post.

By Day 3 of Week 1

Post a summary of the interview and a description of the communication techniques you would use with your assigned patient. Explain why you would use these techniques. Identify the risk assessment instrument you selected, and justify why it would be applicable to the selected patient. Provide at least five targeted questions you would ask the patient.

Note: For this Discussion, you are required to complete your initial post before you will be able to view and respond to your colleagues’ postings. Begin by clicking on the “Post to Discussion Question” link, and then select “Create Thread” to complete your initial post. Remember, once you click on Submit, you cannot delete or edit your own posts, and you cannot post anonymously. Please check your post carefully before clicking on Submit!

Read a selection of your colleagues’ responses.

By Day 6 of Week 1

Respond to at least two of your colleagues on 2 different days who selected a different patient than you, using one or more of the following approaches:

  • Share additional interview and communication techniques that could be effective with your colleague’s selected patient.
  • Suggest additional health-related risks that might be considered.
  • Validate an idea with your own experience and additional research.

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NURS 6512 Differential Diagnosis for Skin Conditions Lab Assignment Example

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NURS 6512 Differential Diagnosis for Skin Conditions Lab Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Differential Diagnosis for Skin Conditions Lab AssignmentNURS 6512 Differential Diagnosis for Skin Conditions Lab Assignment

NURS 6512 Differential Diagnosis for Skin Conditions Lab Assignment Brief

Course: NURS 6512 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning

Assignment Title: NURS 6512 Differential Diagnosis for Skin Conditions Lab Assignment

Assignment Instructions Overview

In this lab assignment, you will engage in differential diagnosis to determine the probable cause of a patient’s skin condition based on visual representations. You will utilize clinical terminologies to describe physical characteristics, formulate a differential diagnosis, and justify the most likely diagnosis using evidence-based practices and resources provided in the course.

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Understanding Assignment Objectives

The primary objective of this assignment is to develop your proficiency in differential diagnosis skills specific to dermatological conditions. By analyzing visual representations of skin abnormalities and applying clinical reasoning, you will enhance your ability to identify and prioritize potential diagnoses.

The Student’s Role

As a student, your role involves:

  • Reviewing provided resources on skin conditions.
  • Analyzing visual depictions of skin abnormalities.
  • Using clinical terminologies to describe observed characteristics.
  • Formulating a differential diagnosis of potential conditions.
  • Justifying your diagnosis with evidence-based references.
  • Completing and submitting a SOAP note following the Comprehensive SOAP template provided.

Competencies Measured

This assignment measures the following competencies:

  • Ability to apply differential diagnosis principles.
  • Proficiency in using clinical terminologies.
  • Capacity to analyze and interpret visual data.
  • Skill in integrating evidence-based practices into clinical decision-making.
  • Capability to communicate findings effectively in a SOAP note format.

You Can Also Check Other Related Assessments for the NURS 6512 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning Course:

NURS 6512 Diversity and Health Assessments Discussion Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Building a Comprehensive Health History Discussion Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Assessment Tools and Diagnostic Tests in Adults and Children Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Assessing the Head, Eyes, Ears, Nose, and Throat Case Study Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Assessing the Abdomen Lab Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Differential Diagnosis for Skin Conditions Lab Assignment Example

NURS 6512 – Lab Assignment: Differential Diagnosis for Skin Conditions

SOAP Note

Comprehensive SOAP NOTE

Patient Initials: N/A

Age: N/A

Gender: N/A

Student’s Name: [Your Name]

Institutional Affiliation: [Your Institution]

SUBJECTIVE DATA

Chief Complaint (CC):

Patient presents with non-scaly annular papules distributed along the nape, described as having well-defined borders and appearing reddish in color.

History of Present Illness (HPI):

A Caucasian male of unknown age with no provided medical history is observed with annular papules on the neck. No specific medications or allergies noted. Comprehensive inquiry pending into sexual/reproductive, personal/social, and immunization histories. Family history pertinent to skin conditions not disclosed.

Review of Systems:

General: No report of symptoms such as fatigue, fever, sweating, or weight changes.

HEENT: No reported changes in vision, hearing, chewing, swallowing, or nasal functions.

Neck: Presence of red lesions noted on the back of the neck.

Breasts: No history of lesions, masses, or rashes reported.

Respiratory/CV/GI/GU/MS/Psych/Neuro/Integument/Heme/Lymph/Endocrine/Allergic-Immunologic: No reported complications in any of these systems.

OBJECTIVE DATA

Physical Exam:

General: Vital signs including blood pressure, temperature, heart rate, and BMI within normal limits. No signs of fatigue or discomfort noted.

HEENT: Eyes, ears, and nose examined; no abnormalities detected.

Neck: Non-scaly annular papules observed at the nape, texture and warmth palpated.

Chest/Lungs/Heart/Peripheral Vascular/ABD/Genital/Rectal/Musculoskeletal/Neuro: No abnormalities noted in these systems.

Skin/Lymph Nodes: Non-scaly annular lesions observed at the back of the neck; assessment for lesions on other body regions recommended.

ASSESSMENT

Diagnostics:

Lab:

Recommended diagnostic procedures include dermoscopy, diascopy, and punch biopsy to further investigate the lesions and determine appropriate treatment.

Differential Diagnosis (DDx):

Tinea corporis: Red, circular, itchy rashes; common on arms and legs due to skin contact with infected persons or animals.

Pityriasis rosea: Oval rash starting on chest/back, spreading; affects young adults, often self-resolving.

Lupus: Autoimmune disorder affecting skin, joints, organs; presents with various symptoms including butterfly-shaped rashes and systemic involvement.

Guttate psoriasis: Small, red, itchy lesions; associated with streptococcal infections and genetic predisposition.

Primary Diagnosis:

Granuloma annulare: Circular, reddish lesions triggered by skin injury or specific medications; may resolve spontaneously over time or with treatment.

Discussion

Diagnosing skin conditions is challenging, especially through image interpretation without direct patient interaction. Primary diagnosis of granuloma annulare was selected based on symptoms observed. Consideration of alternative diagnoses such as tinea corporis, pityriasis rosea, and lupus is warranted due to overlapping symptoms. Further physical exams and lab assessments are necessary for accurate diagnosis and management.

References

Colyar, M. R. (2015). Advanced practice nursing procedures. Philadelphia, PA: F. A. Davis.

Dains, J. E., Baumann, L. C., & Scheibel, P. (2015). Advanced Health Assessment & Clinical Diagnosis in Primary Care-E-Book. Elsevier Health Sciences.

Halder, R. M., & Nootheti, P. K. (2014). Ethnic skin disorders overview. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 48(6), S143-S148.

Detailed Assessment Instructions for the NURS 6512 Differential Diagnosis for Skin Conditions Lab Assignment

Assignment 1: Lab Assignment: Differential Diagnosis for Skin Conditions

Properly identifying the cause and type of a patient’s skin condition involves a process of elimination known as differential diagnosis. Using this process, a health professional can take a given set of physical abnormalities, vital signs, health assessment findings, and patient descriptions of symptoms, and incrementally narrow them down until one diagnosis is determined as the most likely cause.

In this Lab Assignment, you will examine several visual representations of various skin conditions, describe your observations, and use the techniques of differential diagnosis to determine the most likely condition.

To Prepare

  • Review the Skin Conditions document provided in this week’s Learning Resources, and select one condition to closely examine for this Lab Assignment.
  • Consider the abnormal physical characteristics you observe in the graphic you selected. How would you describe the characteristics using clinical terminologies?
  • Explore different conditions that could be the cause of the skin abnormalities in the graphics you selected.
  • Consider which of the conditions is most likely to be the correct diagnosis, and why.
  • Search the Walden library for one evidence-based practice, peer-reviewed article based on the skin condition you chose for this Lab Assignment.
  • Review the Comprehensive SOAP Exemplar found in this week’s Learning Resources to guide you as you prepare your SOAP note.
  • Download the SOAP Template found in this week’s Learning Resources, and use this template to complete this Lab Assignment.

The Lab Assignment

  • Choose one skin condition graphic (identify by number in your Chief Complaint) to document your assignment in the SOAP (Subjective, Objective, Assessment, and Plan) note format rather than the traditional narrative style. Refer to Chapter 2 of the Sullivan text and the Comprehensive SOAP Template in this week’s Learning Resources for guidance. Remember that not all comprehensive SOAP data are included in every patient case.
  • Use clinical terminologies to explain the physical characteristics featured in the graphic. Formulate a differential diagnosis of three to five possible conditions for the skin graphic that you chose. Determine which is most likely to be the correct diagnosis and explain your reasoning using at least three different references, one reference from current evidence-based literature from your search and two different references from this week’s Learning Resources.

By Day 7 of Week 4

Submit your Lab Assignment.

Submission and Grading Information

To submit your completed Assignment for review and grading, do the following:

  • Please save your Assignment using the naming convention “WK4Assgn1+last name+first initial.(extension)” as the name.
  • Click the Week 4 Assignment 1 Rubric to review the Grading Criteria for the Assignment.
  • Click the Week 4 Assignment 1 link. You will also be able to “View Rubric” for grading criteria from this area.
  • Next, from the Attach File area, click on the Browse My Computer button. Find the document you saved as “WK4Assgn1+last name+first initial.(extension)” and click Open.
  • If applicable: From the Plagiarism Tools area, click the checkbox for I agree to submit my paper(s) to the Global Reference Database.
  • Click on the Submit button to complete your submission.

Grading Criteria

To access your rubric:

Week 4 Assignment 1 Rubric

Check Your Assignment Draft for Authenticity

To check your Assignment draft for authenticity:

Submit your Week 4 Assignment 1 draft and review the originality report.

Submit Your Assignment by Day 7 of Week 4

To participate in this Assignment:

Comprehensive SOAP Template

This template is for a full history and physical. For this course include only areas that are related to the case.

Patient Initials: _______ Age: _______ Gender: _______

Note: The mnemonic below is included for your reference and should be removed before the submission of your final note.

L =location

O= onset

C= character

A= associated signs and symptoms

T= timing

E= exacerbating/relieving factors

S= severity

SUBJECTIVE DATA:Include what the patient tells you, but organize the information.

Chief Complaint (CC):In just a few words, explain why the patient came to the clinic.

History of Present Illness (HPI):This is the symptom analysis section of your note. Thorough documentation in this section is essential for patient care, coding, and billing analysis. Paint a picture of what is wrong with the patient. You need to start EVERY HPI with age, race, and gender (e.g., 34-year-old AA male). You must include the seven attributes of each principal symptom in paragraph form not a list.If the CC was “headache”, the LOCATES for the HPI might look like the following example: NURS 6512 Week 4 Assignment 1- Differential Diagnosis for Skin Conditions

Location: head

Onset: 3 days ago

Character: pounding, pressure around the eyes and temples

Associated signs and symptoms: nausea, vomiting, photophobia, phonophobia

Timing: after being on the computer all day at work

Exacerbating/ relieving factors: light bothers eyes, Aleve makes it tolerable but not completely better

Severity: 7/10 pain scale

Medications:Include over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal supplements. List each one by name with dosage and frequency.

Allergies:Include specific reactions to medications, foods, insects, and environmental factors. Identify if it is an allergy or intolerance.

Past Medical History (PMH):Include illnesses (also childhood illnesses), hospitalizations.

Past Surgical History (PSH):Include dates, indications, and types of operations.

Sexual/Reproductive History: If applicable,include obstetric history, menstrual history, methods of contraception, sexual function, and risky sexual behaviors.

Personal/Social History:Include tobacco use, alcohol use, drug use, patient’s interests, ADL’s and IADL’s if applicable, and exercise and eating habits. NURS 6512 Week 4 Assignment 1- Differential Diagnosis for Skin Conditions

Immunization History:Includelast Tdap, Flu, pneumonia, etc.

Significant Family History: Include history of parents, grandparents, siblings, and children.

Lifestyle:Include cultural factors, economic factors, safety, and support systems and sexual preference.

Review of Systems:From head-to-toe, include each system that covers the Chief Complaint, History of Present Illness, and History (this includes the systems that address any previous diagnoses).Remember that the information you include in this section is based on what the patient tells you so ensure that you include all essentials in your case (refer to Chapter 2 of the Sullivan text).

General:Include any recent weight changes, weakness, fatigue, or fever, but do not restate HPI data here.

HEENT:

Neck:

Breasts:

Respiratory:

Cardiovascular/Peripheral Vascular:

Gastrointestinal:

Genitourinary:

Musculoskeletal:

Psychiatric:

Neurological:

Skin:

Hematologic:

Endocrine:

Allergic/Immunologic:

OBJECTIVE DATA:From head-to-toe, includewhat you see, hear, and feel when doing your physical exam. You only need to examine the systems that are pertinent to the CC, HPI, and History unless you are doing a total H&P- only in this course. Do not use “WNL” or “normal.” You must describe what you see.

Physical Exam:

Vital signs: Include vital signs, ht, wt, and BMI.

General:Include general state of health, posture, motor activity, and gait. This may also include dress, grooming, hygiene, odors of body or breath, facial expression, manner, level of consciousness, and affect and reactions to people and things. NURS 6512 Week 4 Assignment 1- Differential Diagnosis for Skin Conditions

HEENT:

Neck:

Chest

Lungs:

Heart

Peripheral Vascular: Abdomen:

Genital/Rectal:

Musculoskeletal:

Neurological:

Skin:

Include any labs, x-rays, or other diagnostics that are needed to develop the differential diagnoses.

ASSESSMENT:List your priority diagnosis (es). For each priority diagnosis, list at least three differential diagnoses, each of which must be supported with evidence and guidelines. For holistic care, you need to include previous diagnoses and indicate whether these are controlled or not controlled. These should also be included in your treatment plan.

PLAN:This section is not required for the assignments in this course (NURS 6512) but will be required for future courses.

REFLECTION: This section is not required for the assignments in this course (NURS 6512) but will be required for future courses.Reflect on your clinical experience, and consider the following questions: What did you learn from this experience? What would you do differently? Do you agree with your preceptor based on the evidence?

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NURS 6512 Diversity and Health Assessments Discussion Paper Example

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NURS 6512 Diversity and Health Assessments Discussion Paper Example

NURS 6512 Diversity and Health Assessments Discussion AssignmentNURS 6512 Diversity and Health Assessments Discussion Assignment

NURS 6512 Diversity and Health Assessments Discussion Assignment Brief

Course: NURS 6512 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning

Assignment Title: NURS 6512 Diversity and Health Assessments Discussion Assignment

Assignment Instructions Overview

This assignment focuses on understanding and integrating cultural and diversity awareness in health assessments. Students are required to reflect on their nursing experiences and consider the diversity issues highlighted in the course resources. The aim is to develop a culturally competent approach to building health histories for patients from diverse backgrounds.

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Understanding Assignment Objectives

The primary objective of this assignment is to enhance students’ awareness and sensitivity towards the diverse cultural, socioeconomic, spiritual, and lifestyle factors that influence patients’ health. By engaging in this discussion, students will learn to adapt their health assessment techniques to meet the unique needs of patients from various cultural backgrounds.

The Student’s Role

Students are expected to:

  • Reflect on their personal nursing experiences and the course materials related to diversity in health assessments.
  • Analyze a case study assigned by the instructor, focusing on the specific cultural factors influencing the patient’s health.
  • Develop a set of targeted questions to build a comprehensive health history, considering the patient’s background, lifestyle, and cultural context.
  • Engage in discussion with peers by critiquing their questions and reflecting on how the questions could be applied to their own case study.

Competencies Measured

This assignment measures the following competencies:

  • Cultural Competence: Understanding and respecting cultural differences in healthcare practices and beliefs.
  • Communication Skills: Developing effective communication strategies that are sensitive to the cultural context of the patient.
  • Critical Thinking: Analyzing and reflecting on the diverse factors that influence patient health and adapting assessment techniques accordingly.
  • Empathy and Sensitivity: Demonstrating empathy and sensitivity in interactions with patients from diverse backgrounds, ensuring their cultural needs are met.

You Can Also Check Other Related Assessments for the NURS 6512 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning Course:

NURS 6512 Differential Diagnosis for Skin Conditions Lab Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Building a Comprehensive Health History Discussion Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Assessment Tools and Diagnostic Tests in Adults and Children Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Assessing the Head, Eyes, Ears, Nose, and Throat Case Study Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Assessing the Abdomen Lab Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Diversity and Health Assessments Discussion Paper Example

Case Study Discussion

Patient Profile

JC, an 86-year-old Asian male, is physically and financially dependent on his daughter, a single mother with limited time and resources to attend to her father’s health needs. JC has a history of hypertension (HTN), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), vitamin B12 deficiency, and chronic prostatitis. His current medications include Lisinopril 10 mg daily, Prilosec 20 mg daily, B12 injections monthly, and Cipro 100 mg daily. JC visits for an annual exam and expresses concern about not wanting to be a burden to his daughter.

Introduction

Cultural competency in healthcare involves understanding and respecting diverse cultural perspectives and incorporating this understanding into patient care. Healthcare providers must be aware of their own cultural biases and those of their patients to build a trusting relationship. According to Ball et al. (2015), culturally competent care allows providers to meet the unique needs of patients from different backgrounds, fostering a more effective and respectful healthcare environment.

Factors

When assessing JC, several factors must be considered:

  • Socioeconomic Factors: JC’s reliance on his daughter for financial and physical support highlights the socioeconomic challenges they face. This dependency is compounded by his daughter’s role as a single mother, likely resulting in financial strain and limited time for JC’s care.
  • Cultural Factors: In many Asian cultures, adult children are expected to care for their aging parents, often resulting in multigenerational households (Yan, Chan, & Tiwari, 2014). However, this expectation can create stress and financial hardship for the caregivers, particularly in single-parent families.
  • Language and Communication: Language barriers may exist if JC is not fluent in English, which can complicate communication and lead to misunderstandings or inadequate care.
  • Mental Health Considerations: JC’s concern about being a burden may indicate underlying feelings of depression or anxiety, common among elderly individuals who are dependent on others for their care (Vega, 2014).

Sensitive Issues

When interacting with JC, it is essential to approach topics with cultural sensitivity and empathy. Discussing his concerns about being a burden must be handled delicately to avoid feelings of shame or dishonor, which are significant in many Asian cultures (Carteret, 2010). Additionally, exploring his home situation and relationship with his daughter requires careful and respectful questioning to ensure JC feels supported rather than judged.

Targeted Questions

To build a comprehensive health history and assess JC’s health risks, the following questions should will be posed with cultural sensitivity:

Can you tell me about your current health problems?

This open-ended question allows JC to describe his health issues in his own words, providing insight into his understanding and management of his conditions.

Do you ever feel sad or depressed?

This question addresses potential mental health concerns, crucial for an elderly patient who expresses feelings of being a burden.

You mentioned that you don’t want to be a burden to your daughter. Can you tell me about your relationship with her?

This question gently probes into JC’s familial relationships, helping to understand the dynamics and potential sources of stress or support.

Do you feel safe at home?

Ensuring JC’s safety is paramount, and this question can uncover any concerns about his living environment or treatment at home.

Would you be open to exploring resources to help you at home?

This question offers JC a solution-oriented approach, suggesting external support services that could alleviate some of the burdens on his daughter and improve his overall well-being.

Conclusion

Understanding and respecting JC’s cultural background is crucial in providing effective and compassionate care. Healthcare providers must be open to different cultural perspectives and address concerns in a culturally sensitive manner to build trust and ensure comprehensive care (Ball et al., 2015). By asking targeted questions and considering JC’s unique circumstances, providers can better support his health needs and improve his quality of life.

References

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2015). Seidel’s guide to physical examination (8th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Carteret, M. M. (2010). Cultural values of Asian patients and families. Retrieved from Dimensions of Culture

Vega, T. (2014). As parents age, Asian-Americans struggle to obey a cultural code. The New York Times.

Yan, E., Chan, K.-L., & Tiwari, A. (2014). A systematic review of prevalence and risk factors for elder abuse in Asia. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 16(2), 199-219.

Detailed Assessment Instructions for the NURS 6512 Diversity and Health Assessments Discussion Assignment

Functional Assessments and Cultural and Diversity Awareness in Health Assessment – Week 2 (10m)

Discussion: Diversity and Health Assessments

May 2012, Alice Randall wrote an article for The New York Times on the cultural factors that encouraged black women to maintain a weight above what is considered healthy. Randall explained—from her observations and her personal experience as a black woman—that many African-American communities and cultures consider women who are overweight to be more beautiful and desirable than women at a healthier weight. As she put it, “Many black women are fat because we want to be” (Randall, 2012).

Randall’s statements sparked a great deal of controversy and debate; however, they emphasize an underlying reality in the healthcare field: different populations, cultures, and groups have diverse beliefs and practices that impact their health. Nurses and healthcare professionals should be aware of this reality and adapt their health assessment techniques and recommendations to accommodate diversity.

In this Discussion, you will consider different socioeconomic, spiritual, lifestyle, and other cultural factors that should be taken into considerations when building a health history for patients with diverse backgrounds. Your Instructor will assign a case study to you for this Discussion.

To prepare:

  • Reflect on your experiences as a nurse and on the information provided in this week’s Learning Resources on diversity issues in health assessments.
  • By Day 1 of this week, you will be assigned a case study by your Instructor. Note: Please see the “Course Announcements” section of the classroom for your case study assignment.
  • Reflect on the specific socioeconomic, spiritual, lifestyle, and other cultural factors related to the health of the patient assigned to you.
  • Consider how you would build a health history for the patient. What questions would you ask, and how would you frame them to be sensitive to the patient’s background, lifestyle, and culture? Develop five targeted questions you would ask the patient to build his or her health history and to assess his or her health risks.
  • Think about the challenges associated with communicating with patients from a variety of specific populations. What strategies can you as a nurse employ to be sensitive to different cultural factors while gathering the pertinent information?

By Day 3 of Week 2

Post an explanation of the specific socioeconomic, spiritual, lifestyle, and other cultural factors associated with the patient you were assigned. Explain the issues that you would need to be sensitive to when interacting with the patient, and why. Provide at least five targeted questions you would ask the patient to build his or her health history and to assess his or her health risks.

Note: For this Discussion, you are required to complete your initial post before you will be able to view and respond to your colleagues’ postings. Begin by clicking on the “Post to Discussion Question” link, and then select “Create Thread” to complete your initial post. Remember, once you click on Submit, you cannot delete or edit your own posts, and you cannot post anonymously. Please check your post carefully before clicking on Submit!

Read a selection of your colleagues’ responses.

By Day 6 of Week 2

Respond on or before Day 6 on 2 different days to at least two of your colleagues who were assigned a different patient than you. Critique your colleague’s targeted questions, and explain how the patient might interpret these questions. Explain whether any of the questions would apply to your patient, and why.

Submission and Grading Information

Grading Criteria

To access your rubric:

Week 2 Discussion Rubric

Post by Day 3 of Week 2 and Respond by Day 6 of Week 2

To Participate in this Discussion:

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NURS 6512 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning Course Guide, Assignments & Examples

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NURS 6512 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning Course Guide, Assignments & Examples

NURS 6512 - Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning* (5 credits)NURS 6512 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning* (5 credits)

NURS 6512 Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning Course Description

The physical and emotional well-being of patients and families can be complex and multifaceted. Advanced practice nurses need to have the knowledge and ability to provide safe, competent, and comprehensive physical health assessments. Students in this course focus on concepts and skills to assess patients across the lifespan. They learn to use diagnostic reasoning, advanced communication, and physical assessment skills to identify changes in health patterns. Students also use a systematic approach through which they focus on the assessment of patients with acute and chronic health problems. The advanced skills of suturing, reading 12 Lead EKGs, and interpreting X-rays will be covered. Students engage in course assignments that emphasize risk assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and evidence-based assessment across the lifespan.

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Module 1: Comprehensive Health History

What’s Happening in This Module?

This course is composed of four (4) separate modules. Each module consists of an overarching topic in which each week within the module includes specific subtopics for learning. As you work through each module, you will have an opportunity to draw upon the knowledge you gain in various Digital Clinical Experiences (DCE) and lab assignment components that will be due throughout each of the modules.

Module 1: Comprehensive Health History is a 1-week module, Week 1 of the course, in which you will examine how social determinants of health such as age, gender, ethnicity, and environmental situations impact the health and risk assessment of the patients you serve. You will also consider how social determinants of health influence your interview and communication techniques as you work in partnership with a patient to gather data to build an accurate health history.

What do I have to do?     When do I have to do it?    
Review your Learning Resources Days 1–7, Week 1
Discussion: Building a Comprehensive Health History Post by Day 3 of Week 1, and respond to your colleagues by Day 6 of Week 1.
What’s Coming Up in Module 2: Looking Ahead Review the “Looking Ahead” section for this week. You are encouraged to further review the requirements for the Shadow Health registration process for your digital clinical experiences.

 Go to the Week’s Content

You can also read these assignment examples for the NURS 6512 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning Course:

NURS 6512 Diversity and Health Assessments Discussion Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Building a Comprehensive Health History Discussion Paper Example

NURS 6512 Differential Diagnosis for Skin Conditions Lab Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Assessment Tools and Diagnostic Tests in Adults and Children Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Assessing the Head, Eyes, Ears, Nose, and Throat Case Study Assignment Example

NURS 6512 Assessing the Abdomen Lab Assignment Example

Week 1: Building a Comprehensive Health History

According to a 2011 Gallup poll, nurses are ranked as the most trusted professionals in the United States. One of the most admired nursing skills is the ability to put patients at ease. When patients enter into a healthcare setting, they are often apprehensive about sharing personal health information. Caring nurses can alleviate the hesitance of patients and encourage them to be forthcoming with this information.

The initial health history interview can be an excellent opportunity to develop supportive relationships between patients and nurses. Nurses may employ a variety of communication skills and interview techniques to foster strong bonds with patients and to effectively facilitate the diagnostic process. In conducting interviews, advanced practice nurses must also take into account a range of patient-specific factors that may impact the questions they ask, how they ask those questions, and their complete assessment of the patient’s health.

This week, you will consider how social determinants of health such as age, gender, ethnicity, and environmental situation impact the health and risk assessment of the patients you serve. You will also consider how social determinants of health influence your interview and communication techniques as you work in partnership with a patient to gather data to build an accurate health history.

Learning Objectives

Students will:

  • Analyze communication techniques used to obtain patients’ health histories based upon social determinants of health
  • Analyze health-related risk
  • Apply concepts, theories, and principles related to patient interviewing, diagnostic reasoning, and recording patient information

Learning Resources

Required Readings

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

  • Chapter 1, “The History and Interviewing Process”

This chapter explains the process of developing relationships with patients in order to build an effective health history. The authors offer suggestions for adapting the creation of a health history according to age, gender, and disability.

  • Chapter 5, “Recording Information”

This chapter provides rationale and methods for maintaining clear and accurate records. The authors also explore the legal aspects of patient records.

Sullivan, D. D. (2019). Guide to clinical documentation (3rd ed.). Philadelphia, PA: F. A. Davis.

  • Chapter 2, “The Comprehensive History and Physical Exam” (pp. 19–29)

Deckx, L., van den Akker, M., Daniels, L., De Jonge, E. T., Bulens, P., Tjan-Heijnen, V. C. G., … Buntinx, F. (2015). Geriatric screening tools are of limited value to predict decline in functional status and quality of life: Results of a cohort study. BMC Family Practice, 16, 1–12.  https://doi-org.ezp.waldenulibrary.org/10.1186/s12875-015-0241- x

Wu, R. R., & Orlando, L. A. (2015). Implementation of health risk assessments with family health history: Barriers and benefits. Postgraduate Medical Journal, (1079), 508–513.

Lushniak, B. D. (2015). Surgeon general’s perspectives: Family health history: Using the past to improve future health. Public Health Reports, (1), 3.

Jardim, T. V., Sousa, A. L. L., Povoa, T. I. R., Barroso, W. K. S., Chinem, B., Jardim, L., … Jardim, P. C. B. V. (2015). The natural history of cardiovascular risk factors in health professionals: 20-year follow-up. BMC Public Health, 15(1111), 1–7. https://doi-org.ezp.waldenulibrary.org/10.1186/s12889-015-2477-8

Shadow Health Support and Orientation Resources

Use the following resources to guide you through your Shadow Health orientation as well as other support resources:

Frey, C. [Chris Frey]. (2015, September 4). Student orientation [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rfd_8pTJBkY

Shadow Health. (n.d.). Shadow Health help desk. Retrieved from https://support.shadowhealth.com/hc/en-us

Document: Shadow Health. (2014). Useful tips and tricks (Version 2) (PDF)

Document: Shadow Health Nursing Documentation Tutorial (Word document)

Optional Resource

LeBlond, R. F., Brown, D. D., & DeGowin, R. L. (2014). DeGowin’s diagnostic examination (10th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw- Hill Medical.

  • Chapter 2, “History Taking and the Medical Record” (pp. 15–33)

Required Media

Welcome and General Course Guidelines

Dr. Tara Harris reviews the overall guidelines and the expectations for the course. Consider how you will manage your time as you review your media and Learning Resources throughout the course to better prepare for your Discussions, Case Study Lab Assignments, Digital Clinical Experience (DCE) Assignments, and your Midterm and Final Exams (14m).

Module 1 Introduction

Dr. Tara Harris reviews the overall expectations for Module 1. Please pay special attention to the registration requirements for your use of Shadow Health for your Digital Clinical Experience (DCE) Assignments as well as the criteria for the DCE Assignments (3m).

Building a Comprehensive Health History – Week 1 (19m)

Discussion: Building a Health History

Effective communication is vital to constructing an accurate and detailed patient history. A patient’s health or illness is influenced by many factors, including age, gender, ethnicity, and environmental setting. As an advanced practice nurse, you must be aware of these factors and tailor your communication techniques accordingly. Doing so will not only help you establish rapport with your patients, but it will also enable you to more effectively gather the information needed to assess your patients’ health risks.

For this Discussion, you will take on the role of a clinician who is building a health history for a particular new patient assigned by your Instructor.

To prepare:

With the information presented in Chapter 1 of Ball et al. in mind, consider the following:

  • By Day 1 of this week, you will be assigned a new patient profile by your Instructor for this Discussion. Note: Please see the “Course Announcements” section of the classroom for your new patient profile assignment.
  • How would your communication and interview techniques for building a health history differ with each patient?
  • How might you target your questions for building a health history based on the patient’s social determinants of health?
  • What risk assessment instruments would be appropriate to use with each patient, or what questions would you ask each patient to assess his or her health risks?
  • Identify any potential health-related risks based upon the patient’s age, gender, ethnicity, or environmental setting that should be taken into consideration.
  • Select one of the risk assessment instruments presented in Chapter 1 or Chapter 5 of the Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination text, or another tool with which you are familiar, related to your selected patient.
  • Develop at least five targeted questions you would ask your selected patient to assess his or her health risks and begin building a health history.

By Day 3 of Week 1

Post a summary of the interview and a description of the communication techniques you would use with your assigned patient. Explain why you would use these techniques. Identify the risk assessment instrument you selected, and justify why it would be applicable to the selected patient. Provide at least five targeted questions you would ask the patient.

Note: For this Discussion, you are required to complete your initial post before you will be able to view and respond to your colleagues’ postings. Begin by clicking on the “Post to Discussion Question” link, and then select “Create Thread” to complete your initial post. Remember, once you click on Submit, you cannot delete or edit your own posts, and you cannot post anonymously. Please check your post carefully before clicking on Submit!

Read a selection of your colleagues’ responses.

By Day 6 of Week 1

Respond to at least two of your colleagues on 2 different days who selected a different patient than you, using one or more of the following approaches:

  • Share additional interview and communication techniques that could be effective with your colleague’s selected patient.
  • Suggest additional health-related risks that might be considered.
  • Validate an idea with your own experience and additional research.

Submission and Grading Information

 Grading Criteria

To access your rubric:

Week 1 Discussion Rubric

Post by Day 3 of Week 1 and Respond by Day 6 of Week 1

To Participate in this Discussion:

What’s Coming Up in Module 2?

In Module 2, you explore the impact of functional assessments, diversity, and sensitivity in conducting health assessments. You also examine various assessment tools and diagnostic tests used to gather information about patients’ conditions and examine their validity, reliability, and impact in conducting health assessments.

Next week, you will specifically examine functional assessments as they relate to diversity and sensitivity

Registration for Shadow Health

Throughout this course, you will participate in digital clinical experiences using the online simulation tool Shadow Health. The Shadow Health digital clinical experience provides a dynamic, immersive experience designed to improve nursing skills and clinical reasoning through the examination of digital standardized patients. Using Shadow Health you will participate in health histories, focused exams, and a comprehensive assessment.

There will be four Shadow Health assessment components that you will need to complete in Module’s 2 and 3:

  • Health History Assessment (Week 3 & 4)
  • Focused Exam: Cough (Week 5) for a pediatric patient presenting with cough
  • Focused Exam: Chest Pain (Week 7) for an adult patient presenting with chest pain
  • Comprehensive (Head-to-Toe) Physical Assessment (Week 9)

Before you can participate in these simulations, you will need to register for a Shadow Health account. To do this:

  • Go to the Walden Bookstore and purchase access to Shadow Health and the required texts.
  • Once Shadow Health has been purchased, an access code will be emailed to you from the bookstore.
  • Review this video explaining how to register in Shadow Health: https://vimeo.com/275921826/c12d50ee6e
  • Use the Shadow Health link located in the navigation menu on the left in the Blackboard course.
  • Follow the prompts to register in Shadow Health. You will need the access code provided from the bookstore to register. Once registered, Shadow Health should always be accessed via the link in Blackboard.
  • Use only Google Chrome when accessing Shadow Health and make sure all other programs are turned off on your computer. Other browsers do not work well and will not allow the Shadow Health speech to text function to work.
  •  Once registered, complete the Shadow Health Orientation in the Shadow Health website/program and review the videos designed to assist with navigating and completing assignments.
  • Read the Shadow Health Nursing Documentation Tutorial located in the Week 1 Learning Resources.

Note: As nurses you typically use the word assessment to mean completing the physical exam. However, in the SOAP Note format, assessment means diagnosis so start getting in the habit of calling the physical exam exactly that.

Week 2 Case Studies

In Week 2, your Instructor will assign you a case study related to your Discussion by Day 1 of the week. Please make sure to review the “Course Announcements” area of the course to verify your assigned case study. Please plan ahead to ensure you have time to review your case study and your Learning Resources so that you can complete your Discussions and Assignments on time.

Practicum – Upcoming Deadline

In the Nurse Practitioner programs of study (FNP, AGACNP, AGPCNP, and PMHNP) you are required to take several practicum courses. If you plan on taking a practicum course within the next two terms, you will need to submit your application via Meditrek .

For information on the practicum application process and deadlines, please visit the Field Experience: College of Nursing: Application Process – Graduate web page.

Please take the time to review the Appropriate Preceptors and Field Sites for your courses.

Please take the time to review the practicum manuals, FAQs, Webinars and any required forms on the Field Experience: College of Nursing: Student Resources and Manuals web page.

Next Module

Module 2: Functional Assessments and Assessment Tools

What’s Happening in This Module?

Module 2: Functional Assessments and Assessment Tools is a 2-week module, Weeks 2 and 3. In this module, you consider the impact of functional assessments, diversity, and sensitivity in conducting health assessments. You also explore various assessment tools and diagnostic tests that are used to gather information about patients’ conditions and examine the validity and reliability of these tests and tools. Finally, you examine assessment techniques, health risks and concerns, and recommendations for care related to patient growth, weight, and nutrition.

What do I have to do?     When do I have to do it?    
Review your Learning Resources. Days 1–7, Weeks 2 and 3
Discussion: Diversity and Health Assessments Post by Day 3 of Week 2, and respond to your colleagues by Day 6 of Week 2.
Case Study Assignment: Assessment Tools and Diagnostic Tests in Adults and Children Submit your Case Study Assignment by Day 6 of Week 3.
DCE: Health History Assessment You are encouraged to work on your DCE every week. However, this Assessment is not due until Day 7 of Week 4.

Go to the Module’s Content

Week 2: Functional Assessments and Cultural and Diversity Awareness in Health Assessment

Diversity is not about how we differ. Diversity is about embracing one another’s uniqueness.

—Ola Joseph

Countless assessments can be conducted on patients, but they may not be useful. In order to ensure that health assessments result in the necessary care, health assessments should take into account the impact of factors such as cultures and developmental circumstances.

Learning Objectives

Students will:

  • Analyze diversity considerations in health assessments
  • Apply concepts, theories, and principles related to examination techniques, functional assessments, and cultural and diversity awareness in health assessment

Learning Resources

Required Readings

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

  • Chapter 1, “The History and Interviewing Process”  (Previously read in Week 1)

This chapter highlights history and interviewing processes. The authors explore a variety of communication techniques, professionalism, and functional assessment concepts when developing relationships with patients.

  • Chapter 2, “Cultural Competency”

This chapter highlights the importance of cultural awareness when conducting health assessments. The authors explore the impact of culture on health beliefs and practices.

Dains, J. E., Baumann, L. C., & Scheibel, P. (2019). Advanced health assessment and clinical diagnosis in primary care (6th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Advanced Health Assessment and Clinical Diagnosis in Primary Care, 6th Edition by Dains, J.E., Baumann, L. C., & Scheibel, P. Copyright 2019 by Mosby. Reprinted by permission of Mosby via the Copyright Clearance Center.

  • Chapter 2, “Evidenced-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines”

Melton, C., Graff, C., Holmes, G., Brown, L., & Bailey, J. (2014). Health literacy and asthma management among African-American adults: An interpretative phenomenological analysis. Journal of Asthma, 51(7), 703–713. doi:10.3109/02770903.2014.906605

Credit Line: Health literacy and asthma management among African-American adults: An interpretative phenomenological analysis by Melton, C., Graff, C., Holmes, G., Brown, L., & Bailey, J., in Journal of Asthma, Vol. 51/Issue 7. Copyright 2014 by Taylor & Francis, Inc. Reprinted by permission of Taylor & Francis, Inc. via the Copyright Clearance Center.

The authors of this study discuss the relationship between health literacy and health outcomes in African American patients with asthma.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2015). Cultural competence. Retrieved from https://npin.cdc.gov/pages/cultural-competence

This website discusses cultural competence as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Understanding the difference between cultural competence, awareness, and sensitivity can be obtained on this website.

United States Department of Human & Health Services. Office of Minority Health. (n.d.). A physician’s practical guide to culturally competent care. Retrieved June 10, 2019, from https://cccm.thinkculturalhealth.hhs.gov/

From the Office of Minority Health, this website offers CME and CEU credit and equips healthcare professionals with awareness, knowledge, and skills to better treat the increasingly diverse U.S. population they serve.

Espey , D. K., Jim, M. A., Cobb, N., Bartholomew, M., Becker, T., Haverkamp, D., & Plescia, M. (2014). Leading causes of death and all-cause mortality in American Indians and Alaska Natives. American Journal of Public Health, 104(Suppl 3), S303–S311.

The authors of this article present patterns and trends in all-cause mortality and leading cause of death in American Indians and Alaskan Natives.

Wannasirikul, P., Termsirikulchai, L., Sujirarat, D., Benjakul, S., & Tanasugarn, C. (2016). Health literacy, medication adherence, and blood pressure level among hypertension older adults treated at primary health care centers. Southeast Asian Journal of Tropical Medicine and Public Health, 47(1), 109–120.

The authors of this study explore the causal relationships between health literacy, individual characteristics, literacy, culture and society, cognitive ability, medication adherence, and the blood pressure levels of hypertensive older adults receiving healthcare services at primary healthcare centers.

Required Media

Module 2 Introduction

Dr. Tara Harris reviews the overall expectations for Module 2. Consider how you will manage your time as you review your media and Learning Resources for your Discussion, Case Study Lab Assignment, and your DCE Assignment (3m).

Functional Assessments and Cultural and Diversity Awareness in Health Assessment – Week 2 (10m)

Discussion: Diversity and Health Assessments

May 2012, Alice Randall wrote an article for The New York Times on the cultural factors that encouraged black women to maintain a weight above what is considered healthy. Randall explained—from her observations and her personal experience as a black woman—that many African-American communities and cultures consider women who are overweight to be more beautiful and desirable than women at a healthier weight. As she put it, “Many black women are fat because we want to be” (Randall, 2012).

Randall’s statements sparked a great deal of controversy and debate; however, they emphasize an underlying reality in the healthcare field: different populations, cultures, and groups have diverse beliefs and practices that impact their health. Nurses and healthcare professionals should be aware of this reality and adapt their health assessment techniques and recommendations to accommodate diversity.

In this Discussion, you will consider different socioeconomic, spiritual, lifestyle, and other cultural factors that should be taken into considerations when building a health history for patients with diverse backgrounds. Your Instructor will assign a case study to you for this Discussion.

To prepare:

  • Reflect on your experiences as a nurse and on the information provided in this week’s Learning Resources on diversity issues in health assessments.
  • By Day 1 of this week, you will be assigned a case study by your Instructor. Note: Please see the “Course Announcements” section of the classroom for your case study assignment.
  • Reflect on the specific socioeconomic, spiritual, lifestyle, and other cultural factors related to the health of the patient assigned to you.
  • Consider how you would build a health history for the patient. What questions would you ask, and how would you frame them to be sensitive to the patient’s background, lifestyle, and culture? Develop five targeted questions you would ask the patient to build his or her health history and to assess his or her health risks.
  • Think about the challenges associated with communicating with patients from a variety of specific populations. What strategies can you as a nurse employ to be sensitive to different cultural factors while gathering the pertinent information?

By Day 3 of Week 2

Post an explanation of the specific socioeconomic, spiritual, lifestyle, and other cultural factors associated with the patient you were assigned. Explain the issues that you would need to be sensitive to when interacting with the patient, and why. Provide at least five targeted questions you would ask the patient to build his or her health history and to assess his or her health risks.

Note: For this Discussion, you are required to complete your initial post before you will be able to view and respond to your colleagues’ postings. Begin by clicking on the “Post to Discussion Question” link, and then select “Create Thread” to complete your initial post. Remember, once you click on Submit, you cannot delete or edit your own posts, and you cannot post anonymously. Please check your post carefully before clicking on Submit!

Read a selection of your colleagues’ responses.

By Day 6 of Week 2

Respond on or before Day 6 on 2 different days to at least two of your colleagues who were assigned a different patient than you. Critique your colleague’s targeted questions, and explain how the patient might interpret these questions. Explain whether any of the questions would apply to your patient, and why.

Submission and Grading Information

Grading Criteria

To access your rubric:

Week 2 Discussion Rubric

Post by Day 3 of Week 2 and Respond by Day 6 of Week 2

To Participate in this Discussion:

What’s Coming Up in Week 3?

Next week, you examine assessment techniques, health risks and concerns, and recommendations for care related to patient growth, weight, and nutrition. You will also begin your first DCE: Health History Assessment which will be due in Week 4. Plan your time accordingly.

Overview of Digital Clinical Experiences (DCE) and Lab Components

Throughout this course, you are required to not only complete your standard course assignments and discussions, but you will also complete DCE and Lab Components that are either structured as optional or required assignment submissions. Please take the time to review your DCEand Lab Components for this course that are required submissions. See the table below and the attached table for specific DCE and Lab Components for the course.

Note: Each Shadow Health Assessment may be attempted and reopened as many times as necessary prior to the due date to achieve a total score of 80% or better, but you must take all attempts by the Day 7 deadline. You must pass BOTH the Health History and Comprehensive (head-to-toe) Physical Exam of at least a total score of 80% in order to pass the course.

Week Digital Clinical Experiences Lab Components
Module 1:  Comprehensive Health History
Week 1: Building a Comprehensive Health History
Module 2: Functional Assessments and Assessment Tools
Week 2: Functional Assessments and Cultural and Diversity Awareness in Health Assessment
Week 3: Assessment Tools, Diagnostics, Growth, Measurement, and Nutrition in Adults and Children DCE: Health History Assessment (assigned in Week 3, due in Week 4) Case Study Assignment: Assessment Tools and Diagnostic Tests in Adults and Children
Module 3: Approach to System Focused Advanced Health Assessments
Week 4: Assessment of the Skin, Hair, and Nails DCE: Health History Assessment Lab Assignment: Differential Diagnosis for Skin Conditions (SOAP Note for differential diagnosis)
Week 5: Assessment of Head, Neck, Eyes, Ears, Nose, and Throat DCE: Focused Exam: Cough Case Study Assignment: Assessing the Head, Eyes, Ears, Nose, and Throat (Episodic SOAP Note)
Week 6: Assessment of the Abdomen and Gastrointestinal System Lab Assignment: Assessing the Abdomen (Analyze SOAP Note)
Week 7: Assessment of the Heart, Lungs, and Peripheral Vascular System DCE: Focused Exam: Chest Pain
Week 8: Assessment of the Musculoskeletal System Discussion: Assessing Musculoskeletal Pain (Episodic SOAP Note)
Week 9: Assessment of Cognition and the Neurologic System DCE: Comprehensive (head-to-toe) Physical Assessment Case Study Assignment: Assessing Neurological Symptoms (Episodic SOAP Note)
Week 10: Special Examinations—Breast, Genital, Prostate, and Rectal Lab Assignment: Assessing the Genitalia and Rectum (analyze SOAP Note)
Module 4: Ethics in Assessment
Week 11: The Ethics Behind Assessment Lab Assignment: Ethical Concerns

 

Next Week

To go to the next week:

Week 3

Week 3: Assessment Tools, Diagnostics, Growth, Measurement, and Nutrition in Adults and Children

Many experts predict that genetic testing for disease susceptibility is well on its way to becoming a routine part of clinical care. Yet many of the genetic tests currently being developed are, in the words of the World Health Organization (WHO), of “questionable prognostic value.”

—Leslie Pray, PhD

Obesity remains one of the most common chronic diseases in the United States. As a leading cause of United States mortality, morbidity, disability, healthcare utilization and healthcare costs, the high prevalence of obesity continues to strain the United States healthcare system (Obesity Society, 2016).  More than one-third (39.8%) of U.S. adults have obesity (CDC, 2018). The estimated annual medical cost of obesity in the U.S. was $147 billion in 2008 U.S. dollars; the medical costs for people who are obese were $1,429 higher than those of normal weight (CDC, 2018).

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the rate of childhood obesity has tripled in the past 30 years, with an estimated 13.7 million children and adolescents considered obese (CDC, 2018). When seeking insights about a patient’s overall health and nutritional state, body measurements can provide a valuable perspective. This is particularly important with pediatric patients. Measurements such as height and weight can provide clues to potential health problems and help predict how children will respond to illness. Nurses need to be proficient at using assessment tools, such as the Body Mass Index (BMI) and growth charts, in order to assess nutrition-related health risks and pediatric development while being sensitive to other factors that may affect these measures. Body Mass Index is also used as a predictor for measurement of adult weight and health.

Assessments are constantly being conducted on patients, but they may not provide useful information. In order to ensure that health assessments provide relevant data, nurses should familiarize themselves with test-specific factors that may affect the validity, reliability, and value of these tools.

This week, you will explore various assessment tools and diagnostic tests that are used to gather information about patients’ conditions. You will examine the validity and reliability of these tests and tools. You will also examine assessment techniques, health risks and concerns, and recommendations for care related to patient growth, weight, and nutrition.

Learning Objectives

Students will:

  • Evaluate validity and reliability of assessment tools and diagnostic tests
  • Analyze diversity considerations in health assessments
  • Apply concepts, theories, and principles related to examination techniques, functional assessments, and cultural and diversity awareness in health assessment
  • Apply assessment skills to collect patient health histories

Learning Resources

Required Readings

Note: To access this week’s required library resources, please click on the link to the Course Readings List, found in the Course Materials section of your Syllabus.

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

  • Chapter 3, “Examination Techniques and Equipment”

This chapter explains the physical examination techniques of inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation. This chapter also explores special issues and equipment relevant to the physical exam process.

  • Chapter 8, “Growth and Nutrition”

In this chapter, the authors explain examinations for growth, gestational age, and pubertal development. The authors also differentiate growth among the organ systems.

  • Chapter 5, “Recording Information”  (Previously read in Week 1)

This chapter provides rationale and methods for maintaining clear and accurate records. The text also explores the legal aspects of patient records.

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Student checklist: Health history guide. In Seidel’s guide to physical examination (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line:  Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination, 9th Edition by Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. Copyright 2019 by Elsevier Health Sciences. Reprinted by permission of Elsevier Health Sciences via the Copyright Clearance Center.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2018). Childhood overweight and obesity. Retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/obesity/childhood

This website provides information about overweight and obese children. Additionally, the website provides basic facts about obesity and strategies to counteracting obesity.

Chaudhry, M. A. I., & Nisar, A. (2017). Escalating health care cost due to unnecessary diagnostic testing. Mehran University Research Journal of Engineering and Technology, (3), 569.

This study explores the escalating healthcare cost due the unnecessary use of diagnostic testing. Consider the impact of health insurance coverage in each state and how nursing professionals must be cognizant when ordering diagnostics for different individuals.

Dains, J. E., Baumann, L. C., & Scheibel, P. (2019). Advanced health assessment and clinical diagnosis in primary care (6th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Advanced Health Assessment and Clinical Diagnosis in Primary Care, 6th Edition by Dains, J.E., Baumann, L. C., & Scheibel, P. Copyright 2019 by Mosby. Reprinted by permission of Mosby via the Copyright Clearance Center.

  • Chapter 1, “Clinical Reasoning, Evidence-Based Practice, and Symptom Analysis”

This chapter introduces the diagnostic process, which includes performing an analysis of the symptoms and then formulating and testing a hypothesis. The authors discuss how becoming an expert clinician takes time and practice in developing clinical judgment.

Gibbs , H., & Chapman-Novakofski, K. (2012). Exploring nutrition literacy: Attention to assessment and the skills clients need. Health, 4(3), 120–124.

This study explores nutrition literacy. The authors examine the level of attention paid to health literacy among nutrition professionals and the skills and knowledge needed to understand nutrition education.

Martin, B. C., Dalton, W. T., Williams, S. L., Slawson, D. L., Dunn, M. S., & Johns-Wommack, R. (2014). Weight status misperception as related to selected health risk behaviors among middle school students. Journal of School Health, 84(2), 116–123. doi:10.1111/josh.12128

Credit Line: Weight status misperception as related to selected health risk behaviors among middle school students by Martin, B. C., Dalton, W. T., Williams, S. L., Slawson, D. L., Dunn, M. S., & Johns-Wommack, R., in Journal of School Health, Vol. 84/Issue 2. Copyright 2014 by Blackwell Publishing. Reprinted by permission of Blackwell Publishing via the Copyright Clearance Center.

Noble, H., & Smith, J. (2015) Issues of validity and reliability in qualitative research . Evidence Based Nursing, 18(2), pp. 34–35.

Seidel, H. M., Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2011). History subjective data checklist. In Mosby’s guide to physical examination (7th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Mosby’s Guide to Physical Examination, 7th Edition by Seidel, H. M., Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. Copyright 2011 by Elsevier. Reprinted by permission of Elsevier via the Copyright Clearance Center.

This History Subjective Data Checklist was published as a companion to Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination (8th ed.) by Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., & Flynn, J.A. Copyright Elsevier (2015). From https://evolve.elsevier.com

Sullivan, D. D. (2019). Guide to clinical documentation (3rd ed.). Philadelphia, PA: F. A. Davis.

  • Chapter 2, “The Comprehensive History and Physical Exam” (Previously read in Week 1)
  • Chapter 5, “Pediatric Preventative Care Visits” (pp. 91 101)

Shadow Health Support and Orientation Resources

Use the following resources to guide you through your Shadow Health orientation as well as other support resources:

Frey, C. [Chris Frey]. (2015, September 4). Student orientation [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rfd_8pTJBkY

Document: Shadow Health Support and Orientation Resources (PDF)

Shadow Health. (n.d.). Shadow Health help desk. Retrieved from https://support.shadowhealth.com/hc/en-us

Document: Shadow Health. (2014). Useful tips and tricks (Version 2) (PDF)

Document: Shadow Health Nursing Documentation Tutorial (Word document)

Document: Student Acknowledgement Form (Word document)

Note: You will sign and date this form each time you complete your DCE Assignment in Shadow Health to acknowledge your commitment to Walden University’s Code of Conduct.

Optional Resource

LeBlond, R. F., Brown, D. D., & DeGowin, R. L. (2014). DeGowin’s diagnostic examination (10th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw Hill Medical.

  • Chapter 3, “The Physical Screening Examination”
  • Chapter 17, “Principles of Diagnostic Testing”
  • Chapter 18, “Common Laboratory Tests”

Required Media

Taking a Health History

How do nurses gather information and assess a patient’s health? Consider the importance of conducting an in-depth health assessment interview and the strategies you might use as you watch. (16m)

Assessment Tool, Diagnostics, Growth, Measurements, and Nutrition in Adults and Children – Week 3 (11m)

Assignment 1: Case Study Assignment: Assessment Tools and Diagnostic Tests in Adults and Children

When seeking to identify a patient’s health condition, advanced practice nurses can use a diverse selection of diagnostic tests and assessment tools; however, different factors affect the validity and reliability of the results produced by these tests or tools. Nurses must be aware of these factors in order to select the most appropriate test or tool and to accurately interpret the results.

Not only do these diagnostic tests affect adults, body measurements can provide a general picture of whether a child is receiving adequate nutrition or is at risk for health issues. These data, however, are just one aspect to be considered. Lifestyle, family history, and culture—among other factors—are also relevant. That said, gathering and communicating this information can be a delicate process.

For this Assignment, you will consider the validity and reliability of different assessment tools and diagnostic tests. You will explore issues such as sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values. You will also consider examples of children with various weight issues. You will explore how you could effectively gather information and encourage parents and caregivers to be proactive about their children’s health and weight.

To Prepare

  • Review this week’s Learning Resources and consider factors that impact the validity and reliability of various assessment tools and diagnostic tests. You also will review examples of pediatric patients and their families as it relates to BMI.
  • By Day 1 of this week, you will be assigned to one of the following Assignment options by your Instructor: Adult Assessment Tools or Diagnostic Tests (option 1), or Child Health Case (Option 2). Note: Please see the “Course Announcements” section of the classroom for your assignments from your Instructor.
  • Search the Walden Library and credible sources for resources explaining the tool or test you were assigned. What is its purpose, how is it conducted, and what information does it gather?
  • Also, as you search the Walden library and credible sources, consider what the literature discusses regarding the validity, reliability, sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, ethical dilemmas, and controversies related to the test or tool.
  • If you are assigned Assignment Option 2 (Child), consider what health issues and risks may be relevant to the child in the health example.
    • Based on the risks you identified, consider what further information you would need to gain a full understanding of the child’s health. Think about how you could gather this information in a sensitive fashion.
    • Consider how you could encourage parents or caregivers to be proactive toward the child’s health.

The Assignment

Assignment (3–4 pages, not including title and reference pages):

Assignment Option 1: Adult Assessment Tools or Diagnostic Tests:

Include the following:

  • A description of how the assessment tool or diagnostic test you were assigned is used in healthcare.
    • What is its purpose?
    • How is it conducted?
    • What information does it gather?
  • Based on your research, evaluate the test or the tool’s validity and reliability, and explain any issues with sensitivity, reliability, and predictive values. Include references in appropriate APA formatting.
Assignment Option 2: Child Health Case:

Include the following:

  • An explanation of the health issues and risks that are relevant to the child you were assigned.
  • Describe additional information you would need in order to further assess his or her weight-related health.
  • Identify and describe any risks and consider what further information you would need to gain a full understanding of the child’s health. Think about how you could gather this information in a sensitive fashion.
  • Taking into account the parents’ and caregivers’ potential sensitivities, list at least three specific questions you would ask about the child to gather more information.
  • Provide at least two strategies you could employ to encourage the parents or caregivers to be proactive about their child’s health and weight.

By Day 6 of Week 3

Submit your Assignment.

Submission and Grading Information

To submit your completed Assignment for review and grading, do the following:

  • Please save your Assignment using the naming convention “WK3Assgn1+last name+first initial.(extension)” as the name.
  • Click the Week 3 Assignment 1 Rubric to review the Grading Criteria for the Assignment.
  • Click the Week 3 Assignment 1 link. You will also be able to “View Rubric” for grading criteria from this area.
  • Next, from the Attach File area, click on the Browse My Computer button. Find the document you saved as “WK3Assgn1+last name+first initial.(extension)” and click Open.
  • If applicable: From the Plagiarism Tools area, click the checkbox for I agree to submit my paper(s) to the Global Reference Database.
  • Click on the Submit button to complete your submission.

Grading Criteria

To access your rubric:

Week 3 Assignment 1 Option 1 Rubric

To access your rubric:

Week 3 Assignment 1 Option 2 Rubric

To check your Assignment draft for authenticity:

Submit your Week 3 Assignment 1 draft and review the originality report.

Submit Your Assignment by Day 6 of Week 3

To participate in this Assignment:

Week 3 Assignment 1

Assignment 2: Digital Clinical Experience (DCE): Health History Assessment

A comprehensive health history is essential to providing quality care for patients across the lifespan, as it helps to properly identify health risks, diagnose patients, and develop individualized treatment plans. To effectively collect these heath histories, you must not only have strong communication skills, but also the ability to quickly establish trust and confidence with your patients. For this DCE Assignment, you begin building your communication and assessment skills as you collect a health history from a volunteer “patient.”

To Prepare

  • Review this week’s Learning Resources as well as the Taking a Health History media program, and consider how you might incorporate these strategies. Download and review the Student Checklist: Health History Guide and the History Subjective Data Checklist, provided in this week’s Learning Resources, to guide you through the necessary components of the assessment.
  • Access and login to Shadow Health using the link in the left-hand navigation of the Blackboard classroom.
  • Review the Shadow Health Student Orientation media program and the Useful Tips and Tricks document provided in the week’s Learning Resources to guide you through Shadow Health.
  • Review the Week 4 DCE Health History Assessment Rubric, provided in the Assignment submission area, for details on completing the Assignment.

DCE Health History Assessment:

Complete the following in Shadow Health:

Orientation (Required, you will not be able to access the Health History without completing the requirements). 

  • DCE Orientation (15 minutes)
  • Conversation Concept Lab (50 minutes)

Health History

  • Health History of Tina Jones (180 minutes)

Note: Each Shadow Health Assessment may be attempted and reopened as many times as necessary prior to the due date to achieve total score of 80% or better(includes BOTH DCE and Documentation), but you must take all attempts by the Week 4 Day 7 deadline.

Submission and Grading Information

No Assignment submission due this week but will be due Day 7, Week 4.

Grading Criteria

To access your rubric:

Week 4 Assignment 2 DCE Rubric

What’s Coming Up in Module 3?

In Module 3, you will examine advanced health assessments using a system focused approach.

Next week, you will specifically explore how to assess the skin, hair, and nails, as well as how to evaluate abnormal skin findings while conducting health assessments. You will also complete your first Lab Assignment: Differential Diagnosis for Skin Conditions as well as complete your DCE: Health History Assessment in the simulation tool, Shadow Health.

Week 4 Required Media

Next week, you will need to view several videos and animations in Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination as well as other media, as required, prior to completing your Lab Assignment. There are several videos in varied lengths. Please plan ahead to ensure you have time to view these media programs to complete your Assignment on time.

Next Module

To go to the next module:

Module 3

Module 3: Approach to System-Focused Advanced Health Assessments

What’s Happening in This Module?

Module 3: Approach to System-Focused Advanced Health Assessments is a 7-week module that spans Weeks 4–10. In this module, you explore advanced health assessments using a system-focused approach. Assessments such as skin, hair, and nails as well as head, neck eyes, ears, nose, and throat (HEENT) help you to begin considering abnormalities as you move forward in your assessments. You continue the module by assessing the abdomen and gastrointestinal system and move to other systems—such as heart, lungs, vascular, musculoskeletal, neurologic—before finishing with other special examinations.

What do I have to do? When do I have to do it?
Review your Learning Resources. Days 1–7, Weeks 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10
DCE: Health History Assessment Complete and submit your DCE: Health History Assessment by Day 7 of Week 4.
Lab Assignment: Differential Diagnosis for Skin Conditions Submit your Lab Assignment by Day 7 of Week 4.
Case Study Assignment: Assessing the Head, Eyes, Ears, Nose, and Throat Submit your Case Study Assignment by Day 6 of Week 5.
DCE: Focused Exam: Cough Complete and submit your DCE: Focused Exam: Cough by Day 7 of Week 5.
Lab Assignment: Assessing the Abdomen Submit your Lab Assignment by Day 7 of Week 6.
Midterm Exam Complete by Day 7 of Week 6.
DCE: Focused Exam: Chest Pain Complete and submit your DCE: Focused Exam: Chest Pain by Day 6 of Week 7.
Discussion: Assessing Musculoskeletal Pain Post by Day 3 of Week 8 and respond to your colleagues by Day 6 of Week 8.
Case Study Assignment: Assessing Neurological Symptoms Submit your Case Study Assignment by Day 6 of Week 9.
DCE: Comprehensive (Head-to-Toe) Physical Assessment Complete and submit your DCE: Comprehensive Physical Assessment by Day 7 of Week 9.
Lab Assignment: Assessing the Genitalia and Rectum Submit your Lab Assignment by Day 7 of Week 10.

Week 4: Assessment of the Skin, Hair, and Nails

Something as small and simple as a mole or a discolored toenail can offer meaningful clues about a patient’s health. Abnormalities in skin, hair, and nails can provide non-invasive external clues to internal disorders or even prove to be disorders themselves. Being able to evaluate such abnormalities of the skin, hair, and nails is a diagnostic benefit for any nurse conducting health assessments.

This week, you will explore how to assess the skin, hair, and nails, as well as how to evaluate abnormal skin findings.

Learning Objectives

Students will:

  •  Apply assessment skills to diagnose skin conditions
  • Apply concepts, theories, and principles relating to health assessment techniques and diagnoses for the skin, hair, and nails

Learning Resources

Required Readings

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

  • Chapter 9, “Skin, Hair, and Nails”

This chapter reviews the basic anatomy and physiology of skin, hair, and nails. The chapter also describes guidelines for proper skin, hair, and nails assessments.

Colyar, M. R. (2015). Advanced practice nursing procedures. Philadelphia, PA: F. A. Davis.

Credit Line: Advanced practice nursing procedures, 1st Edition by Colyar, M. R. Copyright 2015 by F. A. Davis Company. Reprinted by permission of F. A. Davis Company via the Copyright Clearance Center.

This section explains the procedural knowledge needed prior to performing various dermatological procedures.

Chapter 1, “Punch Biopsy”

Chapter 2, “Skin Biopsy”

Chapter 10, “Nail Removal”

Chapter 15, “Skin Lesion Removals: Keloids, Moles, Corns, Calluses”

Chapter 16, “Skin Tag (Acrochordon) Removal”

Chapter 22, “Suture Insertion”

Chapter 24, “Suture Removal”

Dains, J. E., Baumann, L. C., & Scheibel, P. (2019). Advanced health assessment and clinical diagnosis in primary care (6th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Advanced Health Assessment and Clinical Diagnosis in Primary Care, 6th Edition by Dains, J.E., Baumann, L. C., & Scheibel, P. Copyright 2019 by Mosby. Reprinted by permission of Mosby via the Copyright Clearance Center.

Chapter 28, “Rashes and Skin Lesions”
This chapter explains the steps in an initial examination of someone with dermatological problems, including the type of information that needs to be gathered and assessed.

Note: Download and use the Student Checklist and the Key Points when you conduct your assessment of the skin, hair, and nails in this Week’s Lab Assignment.

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Skin, hair, and nails: Student checklist. In Seidel’s guide to physical examination (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination, 9th Edition by Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. Copyright 2019 by Elsevier Health Sciences. Reprinted by permission of Elsevier Health Sciences via the Copyright Clearance Center.

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Skin, hair, and nails: Key points. In Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination, 9th Edition by Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. Copyright 2019 by Elsevier Health Sciences. Reprinted by permission of Elsevier Health Sciences via the Copyright Clearance Center.

Sullivan, D. D. (2019). Guide to clinical documentation (3rd ed.). Philadelphia, PA: F. A. Davis.

  • Chapter 2, “The Comprehensive History and Physical Exam” (Previously read in Weeks 1 and 3)

VisualDx. (n.d.). Clinical decision support. Retrieved June 11, 2019, from http://www.skinsight.com/info/for_professionals

This interactive website allows you to explore skin conditions according to age, gender, and area of the body.

Clothier, A. (2014). Assessing and managing skin tears in older people. Nurse Prescribing, 12(6), 278–282.

Document: Skin Conditions (Word document)

This document contains five images of different skin conditions. You will use this information in this week’s Discussion.

Document: Comprehensive SOAP Exemplar (Word document)

Document: Comprehensive SOAP Template (Word document)

Shadow Health Support and Orientation Resources

Use the following resources to guide you through your Shadow Health orientation as well as other support resources:

Frey, C. [Chris Frey]. (2015, September 4). Student orientation [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rfd_8pTJBkY

Document: Shadow Health Support and Orientation Resources (PDF)

Shadow Health. (n.d.). Shadow Health help desk. Retrieved from https://support.shadowhealth.com/hc/en-us

Document: Shadow Health. (2014). Useful tips and tricks (Version 2) (PDF)

Document: Shadow Health Nursing Documentation Tutorial (Word document)

Document: Student Acknowledgement Form (Word document)

Note: You will sign and date this form each time you complete your DCE Assignment in Shadow Health to acknowledge your commitment to Walden University’s Code of Conduct.

Document: DCE (Shadow Health) Documentation Template for Health History (Word document)

Use this template to complete your Assignment 2 for this week.

Optional Resources

LeBlond, R. F., Brown, D. D., & DeGowin, R. L. (2014). DeGowin’s diagnostic examination (10th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw Hill Medical.

Chapter 6, “The Skin and Nails”

In this chapter, the authors provide guidelines and procedures to aid in the diagnosis of skin and nail disorders. The chapter supplies descriptions and pictures of common skin and nail conditions.

Ethicon, Inc. (n.d.-a). Absorbable synthetic suture material. Retrieved from https://web.archive.org/web/20170215015223/http://academicdepartments.musc.edu/surgery/education/resident_info/supplement/suture_manuals/absorbable_suture_chart.pdf

Ethicon, Inc. (2006). Dermabond topical skin adhesive application technique. Retrieved from https://web.archive.org/web/20150921174121/http://academicdepartments.musc.edu/surgery/education/resident_info/supplement/suture_manuals/db_application_poster.pdf

Ethicon, Inc. (2001). Ethicon needle sales types. Retrieved from https://web.archive.org/web/20150921171922/http://academicdepartments.musc.edu/surgery/education/resident_info/supplement/suture_manuals/needle_template.pdf

Ethicon, Inc. (n.d.-b). Ethicon sutures. Retrieved from https://web.archive.org/web/20150921202525/http://academicdepartments.musc.edu/surgery/education/resident_info/supplement/suture_manuals/suture_chart_ethicon.pdf

Ethicon, Inc. (2002). How to care for your wound after it’s treated with Dermabond topical skin adhesive. Retrieved from https://web.archive.org/web/20150926002534/http://academicdepartments.musc.edu/surgery/education/resident_info/supplement/suture_manuals/db_wound_care.pdf

Ethicon, Inc. (2005). Knot tying manual. Retrieved from https://web.archive.org/web/20160915214422/http://academicdepartments.musc.edu/surgery/education/resident_info/supplement/suture_manuals/knot_tying_manual.pdf

Ethicon, Inc. (n.d.-c). Wound closure manual. Retrieved from http://www.uphs.upenn.edu/surgery/Education/facilities/measey/Wound_Closure_Manual.pdf

Module 3 Introduction

Dr. Tara Harris reviews the overall expectations for Module 3. Consider how you will manage your time as you review your media and Learning Resources for your Discussions, Case Study Lab Assignments, DCE Assignments, and your Midterm exam (12m).

Skin, Hair, and Nails – Week 4 (19m)

Online media for Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination

In addition to this week’s media, it is highly recommended that you access and view the online resources included with the text, Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination. Focus on the videos and animations in Chapter 8 that relate to the assessment of the skin, hair, and nails.

Note: To access the online resources included with the text, you need to complete the FREE online registration that is located at https://evolve.elsevier.com/cs/product/9780323172660?role=student .

To Register to View the Content

  1. Go to https://evolve.elsevier.com/cs/product/9780323172660?role=student
  2. Enter the name of the textbook, Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination (name of text without the edition number) in the Search textbox.
  3. Complete the registration process.

To View the Content for this Text

  1. Go to https://evolve.elsevier.com/
  2. Click on Student Site.
  3. Type in your username and password.
  4. Click on the Login button.
  5. Click on the plus sign icon for Resources on the left side of the screen.
  6. Click on the name of the textbook for this course.
  7. Expand the menu on the left to locate all the chapters.
  8. Navigate to the desired content (checklists, videos, animations, etc.).

Note: Clicking on the URLs in the APA citations for the Resources from the textbook will not link directly to the desired online content. Use the online menu to navigate to the desired content.

Suturing Tutorials

The following suturing tutorials provide instruction on the basic interrupted suture, as well as the vertical and horizontal mattress suturing techniques

Tulane Center for Advanced Medical Simulation & Team Training. (2010, July 8). Suturing technique [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-LDmCVtL0o

Note: Approximate length of this media program is 5 minutes.

Mikheil. (2014, April 22). Basic suturing: Simple, interrupted, vertical mattress, horizontal mattress [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MFP90aQvEVM

Note: Approximate length of this media program is 9 minutes.

Incision and Drainage of an Abscess (a common procedure in primary care)

New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM). (2013, September 30). NEJM abscess incision and drainage [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MwgNdrA18fM&list=PL9UKTUFtRDcNq4–Vf2NYfUANEyObfeNm&index=8

Note: Approximate length of this media program is 10 minutes.

Dermablade Use for Shave Biopsies

Dermablade®. (2012, November 9). PersonnaBlades [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D8u1Y18L9DQ

Note: Approximate length of this media program is 5 minutes.

Assignment 1: Lab Assignment: Differential Diagnosis for Skin Conditions

Properly identifying the cause and type of a patient’s skin condition involves a process of elimination known as differential diagnosis. Using this process, a health professional can take a given set of physical abnormalities, vital signs, health assessment findings, and patient descriptions of symptoms, and incrementally narrow them down until one diagnosis is determined as the most likely cause.

In this Lab Assignment, you will examine several visual representations of various skin conditions, describe your observations, and use the techniques of differential diagnosis to determine the most likely condition.

To Prepare

  • Review the Skin Conditions document provided in this week’s Learning Resources, and select one condition to closely examine for this Lab Assignment.
  • Consider the abnormal physical characteristics you observe in the graphic you selected. How would you describe the characteristics using clinical terminologies?
  • Explore different conditions that could be the cause of the skin abnormalities in the graphics you selected.
  • Consider which of the conditions is most likely to be the correct diagnosis, and why.
  • Search the Walden library for one evidence-based practice, peer-reviewed article based on the skin condition you chose for this Lab Assignment.
  • Review the Comprehensive SOAP Exemplar found in this week’s Learning Resources to guide you as you prepare your SOAP note.
  • Download the SOAP Template found in this week’s Learning Resources, and use this template to complete this Lab Assignment.

The Lab Assignment

  • Choose one skin condition graphic (identify by number in your Chief Complaint) to document your assignment in the SOAP (Subjective, Objective, Assessment, and Plan) note format rather than the traditional narrative style. Refer to Chapter 2 of the Sullivan text and the Comprehensive SOAP Template in this week’s Learning Resources for guidance. Remember that not all comprehensive SOAP data are included in every patient case.
  • Use clinical terminologies to explain the physical characteristics featured in the graphic. Formulate a differential diagnosis of three to five possible conditions for the skin graphic that you chose. Determine which is most likely to be the correct diagnosis and explain your reasoning using at least three different references, one reference from current evidence-based literature from your search and two different references from this week’s Learning Resources.

By Day 7 of Week 4

Submit your Lab Assignment.

Submission and Grading Information

To submit your completed Assignment for review and grading, do the following:

  • Please save your Assignment using the naming convention “WK4Assgn1+last name+first initial.(extension)” as the name.
  • Click the Week 4 Assignment 1 Rubric to review the Grading Criteria for the Assignment.
  • Click the Week 4 Assignment 1 link. You will also be able to “View Rubric” for grading criteria from this area.
  • Next, from the Attach File area, click on the Browse My Computer button. Find the document you saved as “WK4Assgn1+last name+first initial.(extension)” and click Open.
  • If applicable: From the Plagiarism Tools area, click the checkbox for I agree to submit my paper(s) to the Global Reference Database.
  • Click on the Submit button to complete your submission.

Grading Criteria

To access your rubric:

Week 4 Assignment 1 Rubric

Check Your Assignment Draft for Authenticity

To check your Assignment draft for authenticity:

Submit your Week 4 Assignment 1 draft and review the originality report.

Submit Your Assignment by Day 7 of Week 4

To participate in this Assignment:

Week 4 Assignment 1

Assignment 2: Digital Clinical Experience (DCE): Health History Assessment

In Week 3, you began your DCE: Health History Assessment. For this week, you will complete this Health History Assessment in your simulation tool, Shadow Health and finalize for submission.

To Prepare

  • Review this week’s Learning Resources as well as the Taking a Health History media program in Week 3, and consider how you might incorporate these strategies. Download and review the Student Checklist: Health History Guide and the History Subjective Data Checklist, provided in this week’s Learning Resources, to guide you through the necessary components of the assessment.
  • Review the DCE (Shadow Health) Documentation Template for Health History found in this week’s Learning Resources and use this template to complete your Documentation Notes for this DCE Assignment.
  • Access and login to Shadow Health using the link in the left-hand navigation of the Blackboard classroom.
  • Review the Shadow Health Student Orientation media program and the Useful Tips and Tricks document provided in the week’s Learning Resources to guide you through Shadow Health.
  • Review the Week 4 DCE Health History Assessment Rubric, provided in the Assignment submission area, for details on completing the Assignment.

Note: There are 2 parts to this assignment – the lab pass and the documentation. You must achieve a total score of 80% in order to pass this assignment. Carefully review the rubric and video presentation in order to fully understand the requirements of this assignment.

DCE Health History Assessment:

Complete the following in Shadow Health:

Orientation

  • DCE Orientation (15 minutes)
  • Conversation Concept Lab (50 minutes)

Health History

  • Health History of Tina Jones (180 minutes)

Note: Each Shadow Health Assessment may be attempted and reopened as many times as necessary prior to the due date to achieve a total of 80% or better (this includes your DCE and your Documentation Notes), but you must take all attempts by the Week 4 Day 7 deadline.

Submission and Grading Information

By Day 7 of Week 4

  • Complete your Health Assessment DCE assignments in Shadow Health via the Shadow Health link in Blackboard.
  • Once you complete your assignment in Shadow Health, you will need to download your lab pass and upload it to the corresponding assignment in Blackboard for your faculty review.
  • (Note: Please save your lab pass as “LastName_FirstName_AssignmentName”.) You can find instructions for downloading your lab pass here: https://link.shadowhealth.com/download-lab-pass
  • Once you submit your Documentation Notes to Shadow Health, make sure to copy and paste the same Documentation Notes into your Assignment submission link below.
  • Download, sign, date, and submit your Student Acknowledgement Form found in the Learning Resources for this week.
  • Note: You must pass this assignment with a minimum score of 80%  in order to pass the class. Once submitted, there are not any opportunities to revise or repeat this assignment. 

Grading Criteria

To access your rubric:

Week 4 Assignment 2 DCE Rubric

Submit Your Assignment by Day 7 of Week 4

To submit your Lab Pass:

Week 4 Lab Pass

To submit this required part of the Assignment:

Week 4 Documentation Notes for Assignment 2

To Submit your Student Acknowledgement Form:

Submit your Week 4 Assignment 2 DCE Student Acknowledgement Form

Assignment 3 (Optional) Practice Assessment: Skin, Hair, and Nails Examination

Advanced practice nurses are required to have the skills and knowledge necessary to perform many different physical assessments and health examinations. In this course, you will demonstrate your abilities in this area by conducting various optional examinations on a volunteer “patient.”

In preparation for the Comprehensive (Head-to-Toe) Physical Assessment due in Week 9, it is recommended that you practice conducting an assessment of the skin, hair, and nails this week.

Note: This is an optional practice physical assessment.

To Prepare

  • Arrange an appropriate time and setting with your volunteer “patient” to perform a skin, hair, and nails examination.
  • Download and review the Skin, Hair, and Nails Student Checklist and Key Points, provided in this week’s Learning Resources, and review the Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination online media.

Optional Lab Assignment

  • Perform the skin, hair, and nails examination, covering all of the areas listed in the checklist.

What’s Coming Up in Week 5?

Next week, you examine how to properly assess the head, neck, eyes, ears, nose, and throat in order to form accurate diagnoses as you complete your Case Study Assignment of the Skin, Hair, Nails, and HEENT. You will once again complete a DCE related to a Focused Exam for cough. Make sure to plan ahead with your Please plan your time accordingly.

Week 5 Required Media

Next week, you will need to view several videos and animations in the Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination as well as other media, as required, prior to completing your Case Study Assignment. There are several videos of various lengths. Please plan ahead to ensure you have time to view these videos and animations to complete your Assignment on time.

Next Week

To go to the next week:

Week 5

Week 5: Assessment of Head, Neck, Eyes, Ears, Nose, and Throat

Emily, age 15, is brought to your clinic complaining of chills, aches, and a sore throat. Without any testing, consider all of the possible diagnoses. It could be a cold, the flu, bronchitis, or even something more serious, such as meningitis or mononucleosis. Assessing the actual cause will involve much more than simple visual inspection. Some conditions are so subtle that they require the use of special instruments and tests in addition to a trained eye and ear.

This week, you will explore how to assess the head, neck, eyes, ears, nose, and throat. Whether dealing with a detached retina, sinusitis, meningitis, or even cough, advanced practice nurses need to know the proper assessment techniques in order to form accurate diagnoses.

Learning Objectives

Students will:

  • Apply assessment skills to diagnose eye, ear, and throat conditions
  • Apply concepts, theories, and principles relating to health assessment techniques and diagnoses for the head, neck, eyes, ears, nose, and throat

Learning Resources

Required Readings 

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

  • Chapter 11, “Head and Neck”

This chapter reviews the anatomy and physiology of the head and neck. The authors also describe the procedures for conducting a physical examination of the head and neck.

  • Chapter 12, “Eyes”

In this chapter, the authors describe the anatomy and function of the eyes. In addition, the authors explain the steps involved in conducting a physical examination of the eyes.

  • Chapter 13, “Ears, Nose, and Throat”

The authors of this chapter detail the proper procedures for conducting a physical exam of the ears, nose, and throat. The chapter also provides pictures and descriptions of common abnormalities in the ears, nose, and throat.

Dains, J. E., Baumann, L. C., & Scheibel, P. (2019). Advanced health assessment and clinical diagnosis in primary care (6th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Advanced Health Assessment and Clinical Diagnosis in Primary Care, 6th Edition by Dains, J.E., Baumann, L. C., & Scheibel, P. Copyright 2019 by Mosby. Reprinted by permission of Mosby via the Copyright Clearance Center.

  • Chapter 15, “Earache”

This chapter covers the main questions that need to be asked about the patient’s condition prior to the physical examination as well as how these questions lead to a focused physical examination.

  • Chapter 21, “Hoarseness”

This chapter focuses on the most common causes of hoarseness. It provides strategies for evaluating the patient, both through questions and through physical exams.

  • Chapter 25, “Nasal Symptoms and Sinus Congestion”

In this chapter, the authors highlight the key questions to ask about the patients symptoms, the key parts of the physical examination, and potential laboratory work that might be needed to provide an accurate diagnosis of nasal and sinus conditions.

  • Chapter 30, “Red Eye”

The focus of this chapter is on how to determine the cause of red eyes in a patient, including key symptoms to consider and possible diagnoses.

  • Chapter 32, “Sore Throat”

A sore throat is one most common concerns patients describe. This chapter includes questions to ask when taking the patient’s history, things to look for while conducting the physical exam, and possible causes for the sore throat.

  • Chapter 38, “Vision Loss”

This chapter highlights the causes of vision loss and how the causes of the condition can be diagnosed.

Note: Download the six documents (Student Checklists and Key Points) below, and use them as you practice conducting assessments of the head, neck, eyes, ears, nose, and throat.

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Head and neck: Student checklist. In Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination, 9th Edition by Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. Copyright 2019 by Elsevier Health Sciences. Reprinted by permission of Elsevier Health Sciences via the Copyright Clearance Center.

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., & Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Head and neck: Key points. In Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination, 9th Edition by Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. Copyright 2019 by Elsevier Health Sciences. Reprinted by permission of Elsevier Health Sciences via the Copyright Clearance Center.

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Eyes: Student checklist. In Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination, 9th Edition by Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. Copyright 2019 by Elsevier Health Sciences. Reprinted by permission of Elsevier Health Sciences via the Copyright Clearance Center.

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Eyes: Key points. In Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination, 9th Edition by Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. Copyright 2019 by Elsevier Health Sciences. Reprinted by permission of Elsevier Health Sciences via the Copyright Clearance Center.

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Ears, nose, and throat: Student checklist. In Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination, 9th Edition by Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. Copyright 2019 by Elsevier Health Sciences. Reprinted by permission of Elsevier Health Sciences via the Copyright Clearance Center.

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Ears, nose, and throat: Key points. In Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination, 9th Edition by Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. Copyright 2019 by Elsevier Health Sciences. Reprinted by permission of Elsevier Health Sciences via the Copyright Clearance Center.

Colyar, M. R. (2015). Advanced practice nursing procedures. Philadelphia, PA: F. A. Davis.

Credit Line: Advanced practice nursing procedures, 1st Edition by Colyar, M. R. Copyright 2015 by F. A. Davis Company. Reprinted by permission of F. A. Davis Company via the Copyright Clearance Center.

  • Chapter 71, “Visual Function Evaluation: Snellen, Illiterate E, Pictorial

This section explains the procedural knowledge needed to perform eyes, ears, nose, and mouth procedures.

Sullivan, D. D. (2019). Guide to clinical documentation (3rd ed.). Philadelphia, PA: F. A. Davis.

  • Chapter 2, “The Comprehensive History and Physical Exam” (Previously read in Weeks 1, 3, 4, and 5)

Bedell, H. E., & Stevenson, S. B. (2013). Eye movement testing in clinical examination. Vision Research 90, 32–37. doi:10.1016/j.visres.2013.02.001. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0042698913000217

Rubin, G. S. (2013). Measuring reading performance. Vision Research, 90, 43–51. doi:10.1016/j.visres.2013.02.015. Retrieved from http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0042698913000436

Harmes, K. M., Blackwood, R. A., Burrows, H. L., Cooke, J. M., Harrison, R. V., & Passamani, P. P. (2013). Otitis media: Diagnosis and treatment. American Family Physicians, 88(7), 435–440.

Otolaryngology Houston. (2014). Imaging of maxillary sinusitis (X-ray, CT, and MRI). Retrieved from http://www.ghorayeb.com/ImagingMaxillarySinusitis.html

This website provides medical images of sinusitis, including X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs (magnetic resonance imaging).

Document: Episodic/Focused SOAP Note Exemplar (Word document)

Document: Episodic/Focused SOAP Note Template (Word document)

Document: Midterm Exam Review (Word document)

Shadow Health Support and Orientation Resources

Frey, C. [Chris Frey]. (2015, September 4). Student orientation [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rfd_8pTJBkY

Shadow Health. (n.d.). Shadow Health help desk. Retrieved from https://support.shadowhealth.com/hc/en-us

Document: Shadow Health. (2014). Useful tips and tricks (Version 2) (PDF)

Document: Student Acknowledgement Form (Word document)

Note: You will sign and date this form each time you complete your DCE Assignment in Shadow Health to acknowledge your commitment to Walden University’s Code of Conduct.

Document: DCE (Shadow Health) Documentation Template for Focused Exam: Cough (Word document)

Use this template to complete your Assignment 2 for this week.

Optional Resource

Use the following resources to guide you through your Shadow Health orientation as well as other support resources:

LeBlond, R. F., Brown, D. D., & DeGowin, R. L. (2014). DeGowin’s diagnostic examination (10th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw Hill Medical.

  • Chapter 7, “The Head and Neck” (pp. 178–301)

This chapter describes head and neck examinations that can be made with general clinical resources. Also, the authors detail syndromes of common head and neck conditions.

Required Media

Assessment of the Head, Neck, Eyes, Ears, Nose, and Throat – Week 5 (29m)

Online media for Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination

It is highly recommended that you access and view the resources included with the course text, Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination. Focus on the videos and animations in Chapters 10, 11, and 12 that relate to the assessment of the head, neck, eyes, ears, nose, and throat. Refer to the Week 4 Learning Resources area for access instructions on https://evolve.elsevier.com/.

University of Iowa Ophthalmology. (2016, December 19). Fluorescein staining of the cornea. Retrieved from https://vimeo.com/198695974

Credit Line: University of Iowa Ophthalmology. (n.d.). Fluorescein staining of the cornea [Video file]. Retrieved from ​https://vimeo.com/198695974. The author(s) and publishers acknowledge the University of Iowa and EyeRounds.org for permission to reproduce this copyrighted material.

Note: Approximate length of this media program is 25 seconds.

Assignment 1: Case Study Assignment: Assessing the Head, Eyes, Ears, Nose, and Throat

Most ear, nose, and throat conditions that arise in non-critical care settings are minor in nature. However, subtle symptoms can sometimes escalate into life-threatening conditions that require prompt assessment and treatment.

Nurses conducting assessments of the ears, nose, and throat must be able to identify the small differences between life-threatening conditions and benign ones. For instance, if a patient with a sore throat and a runny nose also has inflamed lymph nodes, the inflammation is probably due to the pathogen causing the sore throat rather than a case of throat cancer. With this knowledge and a sufficient patient health history, a nurse would not need to escalate the assessment to a biopsy or an MRI of the lymph nodes but would probably perform a simple strep test.

In this Case Study Assignment, you consider case studies of abnormal findings from patients in a clinical setting. You determine what history should be collected from the patients, what physical exams and diagnostic tests should be conducted, and formulate a differential diagnosis with several possible conditions.

To Prepare

  • By Day 1 of this week, you will be assigned to a specific case study for this Case Study Assignment. Please see the “Course Announcements” section of the classroom for your assignment from your Instructor.
  • Also, your Case Study Assignment should be in the Episodic/Focused SOAP Note format rather than the traditional narrative style format. Refer to Chapter 2 of the Sullivan text and the Episodic/Focused SOAP Template in the Week 5 Learning Resources for guidance. Remember that all Episodic/Focused SOAP Notes have specific data included in every patient case.

With regard to the case study you were assigned:

  • Review this week’s Learning Resources and consider the insights they provide.
  • Consider what history would be necessary to collect from the patient.
  • Consider what physical exams and diagnostic tests would be appropriate to gather more information about the patient’s condition. How would the results be used to make a diagnosis?
  • Identify at least five possible conditions that may be considered in a differential diagnosis for the patient.

The Assignment

Use the Episodic/Focused SOAP Template and create an episodic/focused note about the patient in the case study to which you were assigned using the episodic/focused note template provided in the Week 5 resources. Provide evidence from the literature to support diagnostic tests that would be appropriate for each case. List five different possible conditions for the patient’s differential diagnosis and justify why you selected each.

By Day 6 of Week 5

Submit your Assignment.

Submission and Grading Information

To submit your completed Assignment for review and grading, do the following:

  • Please save your Assignment using the naming convention “WK5Assgn1+last name+first initial.(extension)” as the name.
  • Click the Week 5 Assignment 1 Rubric to review the Grading Criteria for the Assignment.
  • Click the Week 5 Assignment 1 link. You will also be able to “View Rubric” for grading criteria from this area.
  • Next, from the Attach File area, click on the Browse My Computer button. Find the document you saved as “WK5Assgn1+last name+first initial.(extension)” and click Open.
  • If applicable: From the Plagiarism Tools area, click the checkbox for I agree to submit my paper(s) to the Global Reference Database.
  • Click on the Submit button to complete your submission.

Grading Criteria

To access your rubric:

Week 5 Assignment 1 Rubric

Check Your Assignment Draft for Authenticity

To check your Assignment draft for authenticity:

Submit your Week 5 Assignment 1 draft and review the originality report.

Submit Your Assignment by Day 6 of Week 5

To participate in this Assignment:

Week 5 Assignment 1

Assignment 2: Digital Clinical Experience: Focused Exam: Cough

In this DCE Assignment, you will conduct a focused exam related to cough in your DCE using the simulation tool, Shadow Health. You will determine what history should be collected from the patient, what physical exams and diagnostic tests should be conducted, and formulate a differential diagnosis with several possible conditions.

To Prepare

  • Review this week’s Learning Resources and consider the insights they provide related to ears, nose, and throat.
  • Review the Shadow Health Resources provided in this week’s Learning Resources specifically the tutorial to guide you through the documentation and interpretation within the Shadow Health platform. Review the examples also provided.
  • Review the DCE (Shadow Health) Documentation Template for Focused Exam: Cough found in this week’s Learning Resources and use this template to complete your Documentation Notes for this DCE Assignment.
  • Access and login to Shadow Health using the link in the left-hand navigation of the Blackboard classroom.
  • Review the Week 5 Focused Exam: Cough Rubric provided in the Assignment submission area for details on completing the Assignment in Shadow Health.
  • Consider what physical exams and diagnostic tests would be appropriate to gather more information about the patient’s condition. How would the results be used to make a diagnosis?

Focused Exam: Cough Assignment:

Complete the following in Shadow Health:

  • Respiratory Concept Lab (Required)
  • Episodic/Focused Note for Focused Exam: Cough
  • HEENT (Recommended but not required)

Note: Each Shadow Health Assessment may be attempted and reopened as many times as necessary prior to the due date to achieve a total of 80% or better (this includes your DCE and your Documentation Notes), but you must take all attempts by the Week 5 Day 7 deadline.

Submission and Grading Information

By Day 7 of Week 5

  • Complete your Focused Exam: Cough DCE Assignment in Shadow Health via the Shadow Health link in Blackboard.
  • Once you complete your Assignment in Shadow Health, you will need to download your lab pass and upload it to the corresponding assignment in Blackboard for your faculty review.
  • (Note: Please save your lab pass as “LastName_FirstName_AssignmentName”.) You can find instructions for downloading your lab pass here: https://link.shadowhealth.com/download-lab-pass
  • Once you submit your Documentation Notes to Shadow Health, make sure to copy and paste the same Documentation Notes into your Assignment submission link below.
  • Download, sign, date, and submit your Student Acknowledgement Form found in the Learning Resources for this week.

Grading Criteria

To access your rubric:

Week 5 Assignment 2 DCE Rubric

Submit Your Assignment by Day 7 of Week 5

To submit your Lab Pass:

Week 5 Lab Pass

To participate in this Assignment:

Week 5 Documentation Notes for Assignment 2

To Submit your Student Acknowledgement Form:

Submit your Week 5 Assignment 2 DCE Student Acknowledgement Form

What’s Coming Up in Week 6?

Next week, you will evaluate abnormal findings in the area of the abdomen and the gastrointestinal system. In addition, you will appraise health assessment techniques and diagnoses for the heart, lungs, and peripheral vascular system as you complete your Lab Assignment in assessing the abdomen in a SOAP note format. You will also take your Midterm Exam, which covers the topics in Weeks 1–6. Please review the previous weekly content and resources to help you prepare for your exam. Plan your time accordingly.

Week 6 Required Media

Next week, you will need to view several videos and animations in the Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination as well as other media, as required, prior to completing your Lab Assignment. There are several videos of various lengths. Please plan ahead to ensure you have time to view these media programs to complete your Assignment on time.

Next Week

To go to the next week:

Week 6

Week 6: Assessment of the Abdomen and Gastrointestinal System

On your way home from dinner, you start experiencing sharp pains in your abdomen. You ate seafood—could you have food poisoning? What else might be causing your pain? Appendicitis? Should you head to the emergency room, or should you wait and see how you feel in the morning?

Numerous ailments can affect the GI system and the abdomen. Because the organs are so close, it can be difficult to conduct an accurate assessment. Also, pain in another area of the body can affect the GI system. For example, patients with chronic migraines often report nausea.

This week, you will explore how to assess the abdomen and gastrointestinal system.

Learning Objectives

Students will:

  • Evaluate abnormal abdomen and gastrointestinal findings
  • Apply concepts, theories, and principles relating to health assessment techniques and diagnoses for the abdomen and gastrointestinal system
  • Identify concepts, theories, and principles related to advanced health assessment

Learning Resources

Required Readings

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

  • Chapter 6, “Vital Signs and Pain Assessment”

This chapter describes the experience of pain and its causes. The authors also describe the process of pain assessment.

  • Chapter 18, “Abdomen”

In this chapter, the authors summarize the anatomy and physiology of the abdomen. The authors also explain how to conduct an assessment of the abdomen.

Dains, J. E., Baumann, L. C., & Scheibel, P. (2019). Advanced health assessment and clinical diagnosis in primary care (6th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Advanced Health Assessment and Clinical Diagnosis in Primary Care, 6th Edition by Dains, J.E., Baumann, L. C., & Scheibel, P. Copyright 2019 by Mosby. Reprinted by permission of Mosby via the Copyright Clearance Center.

  • Chapter 3, “Abdominal Pain”

This chapter outlines how to collect a focused history on abdominal pain. This is followed by what to look for in a physical examination in order to make an accurate diagnosis.

  • Chapter 10, “Constipation”

The focus of this chapter is on identifying the causes of constipation through taking a focused history, conducting physical examinations, and performing laboratory tests.

  • Chapter 12, “Diarrhea”

In this chapter, the authors focus on diagnosing the cause of diarrhea. The chapter includes questions to ask patients about the condition, things to look for in a physical exam, and suggested laboratory or diagnostic studies to perform.

  • Chapter 29, “Rectal Pain, Itching, and Bleeding”

This chapter focuses on how to diagnose rectal bleeding and pain. It includes a table containing possible diagnoses, the accompanying physical signs, and suggested diagnostic studies.

Colyar, M. R. (2015). Advanced practice nursing procedures. Philadelphia, PA: F. A. Davis.

Credit Line: Advanced practice nursing procedures, 1st Edition by Colyar, M. R. Copyright 2015 by F. A. Davis Company. Reprinted by permission of F. A. Davis Company via the Copyright Clearance Center.

These sections below explain the procedural knowledge needed to perform gastrointestinal procedures.

Chapter 107, “X-Ray Interpretation: Chest (pp. 480–487)

Chapter 115, “X-Ray Interpretation of Abdomen” (pp. 514–520)

Note: Download this Student Checklist and Abdomen Key Points to use during your practice abdominal examination.

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Abdomen: Student checklist. In Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination, 9th Edition by Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. Copyright 2019 by Elsevier Health Sciences. Reprinted by permission of Elsevier Health Sciences via the Copyright Clearance Center.

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Abdomen: Key points. In Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination, 9th Edition by Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. Copyright 2019 by Elsevier Health Sciences. Reprinted by permission of Elsevier Health Sciences via the Copyright Clearance Center.

Document: Midterm Exam Review (Word document)

Optional Resource

LeBlond, R. F., Brown, D. D., & DeGowin, R. L. (2014). DeGowin’s diagnostic examination (10th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw Hill Medical.

  • Chapter 9, “The Abdomen, Perineum, Anus, and Rectosigmoid” (pp. 445–527)

This chapter explores the health assessment processes for the abdomen, perineum, anus, and rectosigmoid. This chapter also examines the symptoms of many conditions in these areas.

  • Chapter 10, “The Urinary System” (pp. 528–540)

In this chapter, the authors provide an overview of the physiology of the urinary system. The chapter also lists symptoms and conditions of the urinary system.

Required Media

Assessment of the Abdomen and Gastrointestinal System – Week 6 (14m)

Online media for Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination

It is highly recommended that you access and view the resources included with the course text, Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination. Focus on the videos and animations in Chapter 17 that relate to the assessment of the abdomen and gastrointestinal system. Refer to Week 4 for access instructions on https://evolve.elsevier.com/

Assignment 1: Lab Assignment: Assessing the Abdomen

A woman went to the emergency room for severe abdominal cramping. She was diagnosed with diverticulitis; however, as a precaution, the doctor ordered a CT scan. The CT scan revealed a growth on the pancreas, which turned out to be pancreatic cancer—the real cause of the cramping.

Because of a high potential for misdiagnosis, determining the precise cause of abdominal pain can be time consuming and challenging. By analyzing case studies of abnormal abdominal findings, nurses can prepare themselves to better diagnose conditions in the abdomen.

In this Lab Assignment, you will analyze an Episodic note case study that describes abnormal findings in patients seen in a clinical setting. You will consider what history should be collected from the patients as well as which physical exams and diagnostic tests should be conducted. You will also formulate a differential diagnosis with several possible conditions.

To Prepare

Review the Episodic note case study your instructor provides you for this week’s Assignment. Please see the “Course Announcements” section of the classroom for your Episodic note case study.

  • With regard to the Episodic note case study provided:
    • Review this week’s Learning Resources, and consider the insights they provide about the case study.
    • Consider what history would be necessary to collect from the patient in the case study.
    • Consider what physical exams and diagnostic tests would be appropriate to gather more information about the patient’s condition. How would the results be used to make a diagnosis?
    • Identify at least five possible conditions that may be considered in a differential diagnosis for the patient.

The Assignment

  1. Analyze the subjective portion of the note. List additional information that should be included in the documentation.
  2. Analyze the objective portion of the note. List additional information that should be included in the documentation.
  3. Is the assessment supported by the subjective and objective information? Why or why not?
  4. What diagnostic tests would be appropriate for this case, and how would the results be used to make a diagnosis?
  5. Would you reject/accept the current diagnosis? Why or why not? Identify three possible conditions that may be considered as a differential diagnosis for this patient. Explain your reasoning using at least three different references from current evidence-based literature.

By Day 7 of Week 6

Submit your Lab Assignment.

Submission and Grading Information

To submit your completed Assignment for review and grading, do the following:

  • Please save your Assignment using the naming convention “WK6Assgn1+last name+first initial. (extension)” as the name.
  • Click the Week 6 Assignment 1 Rubric to review the Grading Criteria for the Assignment.
  • Click the Week 6 Assignment 1 link. You will also be able to “View Rubric” for grading criteria from this area.
  • Next, from the Attach File area, click on the Browse My Computer button. Find the document you saved as “WK6Assgn1+last name+first initial. (extension)” and click Open.
  • If applicable: From the Plagiarism Tools area, click the checkbox for I agree to submit my paper(s) to the Global Reference Database.
  • Click on the Submit button to complete your submission.

Grading Criteria

To access your rubric:

Week 6 Assignment 1 Rubric

Check Your Assignment Draft for Authenticity

To check your Assignment draft for authenticity:

Submit your Week 6 Assignment 1 draft and review the originality report.

Submit Your Assignment by Day 7 of Week 6

To participate in this Assignment:

Week 6 Assignment 1

Exam: Week 6 Midterm Exam

This exam is a test of your knowledge in preparation for your certification exam. No outside resources, including books, notes, websites, or any other type of resource, are to be used to complete this exam. You are expected to comply with Walden University’s Code of Conduct.

This exam will be on topics covered in weeks 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. Prior to starting the exam, you should review all of your materials. This exam is timed with a limit of 2 hours for completion. When time is up, your exam will automatically submit.

By Day 7 of Week 6

Submit your Midterm Exam.

Submission and Grading Information

Submit Your Midterm Exam by Day 7 of Week 6.

To Complete this Exam:

Week 6 Exam

Assignment 2: Lab Assignment DCE

The causes of abdominal pain can be extremely varied due to the sheer number of structures, organs, and functions within the abdomen. If abdominal pain is caused by a life-threatening condition, then swift and accurate assessment is essential.

In preparation for the Comprehensive (Head-to-Toe) Physical Assessment due in Week 9, it is recommended that you practice performing an abdominal examination this week.

Focused Exam: Abdominal Assignment:

  • Complete the following in Shadow Health:
  • Abdominal Concept Lab (Required)
  •  Gastrointestinal (Practice)
  • Focused Exam: Abdominal Pain (Practice)

What’s Coming Up in Week 7?

Next week, you will explore how to assess the heart, lungs, and peripheral vascular system as you complete your Discussion.

Week 7 Required Media

Next week, you will need to view several videos and animations in the Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination as well as other media, as required, prior to completing your Discussion. There are several videos of various lengths. Please plan ahead to ensure you have time to view these media programs to complete your Discussion on time.

Next Week

To go to the next week:

Week 7

Week 7: Assessment of the Heart, Lungs, and Peripheral Vascular System

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the largest cause of death worldwide. Accounting for 610,000 deaths annually (CDC, 2017), CVD frequently goes unnoticed until it is too late. Early detection and prevention measures can save the lives of many patients who have CVD. Conducting an assessment of the heart, lungs, and peripheral vascular system is one of the first steps that can be taken to detect CVD and many more conditions that may occur in the thorax or chest area.

This week, you will evaluate abnormal findings in the area of the chest and lungs. In addition, you will appraise health assessment techniques and diagnoses for the heart, lungs, and peripheral vascular system.

Learning Objectives

Students will:

  • Evaluate abnormal cardiac and respiratory findings
  • Apply concepts, theories, and principles relating to health assessment techniques and diagnoses for the heart, lungs, and peripheral vascular system

Learning Resources

Required Readings

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

  • Chapter 14, “Chest and Lungs”

This chapter explains the physical exam process for the chest and lungs. The authors also include descriptions of common abnormalities in the chest and lungs.

  • Chapter 15, “Heart”

The authors of this chapter explain the structure and function of the heart. The text also describes the steps used to conduct an exam of the heart.

  • Chapter 16, “Blood Vessels”

This chapter describes how to properly conduct a physical examination of the blood vessels. The chapter also supplies descriptions of common heart disorders.

Colyar, M. R. (2015). Advanced practice nursing procedures. Philadelphia, PA: F. A. Davis.

  • Chapter 107, “X-Ray Interpretation: Chest (pp. 480–487) (previously read in Week 6; specifically focus on pp. 480–481)

Dains, J. E., Baumann, L. C., & Scheibel, P. (2019). Advanced health assessment and clinical diagnosis in primary care (6th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Advanced Health Assessment and Clinical Diagnosis in Primary Care, 6th Edition by Dains, J.E., Baumann, L. C., & Scheibel, P. Copyright 2019 by Mosby. Reprinted by permission of Mosby via the Copyright Clearance Center.

  • Chapter 8, “Chest Pain”

This chapter focuses on diagnosing the cause of chest pain and highlights the importance of first determining whether the patient is in a life-threatening condition. It includes questions that can help pinpoint the type and severity of pain and then describes how to perform a physical examination. Finally, the authors outline potential laboratory and diagnostic studies.

  • Chapter 11, “Cough”

A cough is a very common symptom in patients and usually indicates a minor health problem. This chapter focuses on how to determine the cause of the cough by asking questions and performing a physical exam.

  • Chapter 14, “Dyspnea”

The focus of this chapter is dyspnea, or shortness of breath. The chapter includes strategies for determining the cause of the problem through evaluation of the patient’s history, through physical examination, and through additional laboratory and diagnostic tests.

  • Chapter 26, “Palpitations”

This chapter describes the different causes of heart palpitations and details how the specific cause in a patient can be determined.

  • Chapter 33, “Syncope”

This chapter focuses on syncope, or loss of consciousness. The authors describe the difficulty of ascertaining the cause, because the patient is usually seen after the loss of consciousness has happened. The chapter includes information on potential causes and the symptoms of each.

Note: Download the Student Checklists and Key Points to use during your practice cardiac and respiratory examination.

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Chest and lungs: Student checklist. In Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination, 9th Edition by Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. Copyright 2019 by Elsevier Health Sciences. Reprinted by permission of Elsevier Health Sciences via the Copyright Clearance Center.

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Chest and lungs: Key points. In Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination, 9th Edition by Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. Copyright 2019 by Elsevier Health Sciences. Reprinted by permission of Elsevier Health Sciences via the Copyright Clearance Center.

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Heart: Student checklist. In Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination, 9th Edition by Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. Copyright 2019 by Elsevier Health Sciences. Reprinted by permission of Elsevier Health Sciences via the Copyright Clearance Center.

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Heart: Key points. In Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination, 9th Edition by Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. Copyright 2019 by Elsevier Health Sciences. Reprinted by permission of Elsevier Health Sciences via the Copyright Clearance Center.

Katz, J. N., Lyons, N., Wolff, L. S., Silverman, J., Emrani, P., Holt, H. L., … Losina, E. (2011). Medical decision-making among Hispanics and non-Hispanic Whites with chronic back and knee pain: A qualitative study. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 12(1), 78–85.

This study examines the medical decision making among Hispanics and non-Hispanic whites. The authors also analyze the preferred information sources used for making decisions in these populations.

Smuck, M., Kao, M., Brar, N., Martinez-Ith, A., Choi, J., & Tomkins-Lane, C. C. (2014). Does physical activity influence the relationship between low back pain and obesity? The Spine Journal, 14(2), 209–216. doi:10.1016/j.spinee.2013.11.010

Shiri, R., Solovieva , S., Husgafvel-Pursiainen, K., Telama, R., Yang, X., Viikari, J., Raitakari, O. T., & Viikari-Juntura, E. (2013). The role of obesity and physical activity in non-specific and radiating low back pain: The Young Finns study. Seminars in Arthritis & Rheumatism, 42(6), 640–650. doi:10.1016/j.semarthrit.2012.09.002

McCabe, C., & Wiggins, J. (2010a). Differential diagnosis of respiratory disease part 1. Practice Nurse, 40(1), 35–41.

This article describes the warning signs of impending deterioration of the respiratory system. The authors also explain the features of common respiratory conditions.

McCabe, C., & Wiggins, J. (2010b). Differential diagnosis of respiratory diseases part 2. Practice Nurse, 40(2), 33–41.

The authors of this article specify how to identify the major causes of acute breathlessness. Additionally, they explain how to interpret a variety of findings from respiratory investigations.

Shadow Health Support and Orientation Resources

Use the following resources to guide you through your Shadow Health orientation as well as other support resources:

Frey, C. [Chris Frey]. (2015, September 4). Student orientation [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rfd_8pTJBkY

Shadow Health. (n.d.). Shadow Health help desk. Retrieved from https://support.shadowhealth.com/hc/en-us

Document: Shadow Health. (2014). Useful tips and tricks (Version 2) (PDF)

Document: Student Acknowledgement Form (Word document)

Note: You will sign and date this form each time you complete your DCE Assignment in Shadow Health to acknowledge your commitment to Walden University’s Code of Conduct.

Document: DCE (Shadow Health) Documentation Template for Focused Exam: Chest Pain (Word document)

Use this template to complete your Assignment 1 for this week.

Optional Resource

LeBlond, R. F., Brown, D. D., & DeGowin, R. L. (2014). DeGowin’s diagnostic examination (10th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw Hill Medical.

Chapter 8, “The Chest: Chest Wall, Pulmonary, and Cardiovascular Systems; The Breasts” (Section 1, “Chest Wall, Pulmonary, and Cardiovascular Systems,” pp. 302–433)

Note: Section 2 of this chapter will be addressed in Week 10.

This section of Chapter 8 describes the anatomy of the chest wall, pulmonary, and cardiovascular systems. Section 1 also explains how to properly conduct examinations of these areas.

Required Media

Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning

Thoughtful, reasoned questioning leads from initial complaint to diagnosis in these three scenarios.
Note: Close the viewing window after the intro segment and after each diagnosis segment to view the menu. (12m)

Photo Credit:Provided courtesy of the Laureate International Network of Universities.

Assessment of the Heart, Lungs, and Peripheral Vascular System – Week 7 (28m)

SkillStat Learning, Inc. (2019). The 6 second ECG. Retrieved from http://www.skillstat.com/tools/ecg-simulator#/-home

This interactive website allows you to explore common cardiac rhythms. It also offers the Six Second ECG game so you can practice identifying rhythms.

Online media for Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination

In addition to this week’s media, it is highly recommended that you access and view the resources included with the course text, Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination. Focus on the videos and animations in Chapters 13 and 14 that relate to the assessment of the chest, heart, and lungs. Refer to Week 4 for access instructions on https://evolve.elsevier.com/

Assignment 1: Digital Clinical Experience: Assessing the Heart, Lungs, and Peripheral Vascular System

Take a moment to observe your breathing. Notice the sensation of your chest expanding as air flows into your lungs. Feel your chest contract as you exhale. How might this experience be different for someone with chronic lung disease or someone experiencing an asthma attack?

In order to adequately assess the chest region of a patient, nurses need to be aware of a patient’s history, potential abnormal findings, and what physical exams and diagnostic tests should be conducted to determine the causes and severity of abnormalities.

In this DCE Assignment, you will conduct a focused exam related to chest pain using the simulation too, Shadow Health. Consider how a patient’s initial symptoms can result in very different diagnoses when further assessment is conducted.

To Prepare

  • Review this week’s Learning Resources and the Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning media program and consider the insights they provide related to heart, lungs, and peripheral vascular system.
  • Review the Shadow Health Resources provided in this week’s Learning Resources specifically the tutorial to guide you through the documentation and interpretation with the Shadow Health platform. Review the examples also provided.
  • Review the DCE (Shadow Health) Documentation Template for Focused Exam: Chest Pain found in this week’s Learning Resources and use this template to complete your Documentation Notes for this DCE Assignment.
  • Access and login to Shadow Health using the link in the left-hand navigation of the Blackboard classroom.
  • Review the Week 7 DCE Focused Exam: Chest Pain Rubric provided in the Assignment submission area for details on completing the Assignment in Shadow Health.
  • Consider what history would be necessary to collect from the patient.
  • Consider what physical exams and diagnostic tests would be appropriate to gather more information about the patient’s condition. How would the results be used to make a diagnosis?

DCE Focused Exam: Chest Pain Assignment:

Complete the following in Shadow Health:

  • Cardiovascular Concept Lab (Required)
  • Respiratory(Recommended but not required)
  • Cardiovascular (Recommended but not required)
  • Episodic/Focused Note for Focused Exam (Required): Chest Pain

Note: Each Shadow Health Assessment may be attempted and reopened as many times as necessary prior to the due date to achieve a total of 80% or better (this includes your DCE and your Documentation Notes), but you must take all attempts by the Week 7 Day 7 deadline.

Submission and Grading Information

By Day 7 of Week 7

  • Complete your Focused Exam: Chest Pain DCE Assignment in Shadow Health via the Shadow Health link in Blackboard.
  • Once you complete your Assignment in Shadow Health, you will need to download your lab pass and upload it to the corresponding Assignment in Blackboard for your faculty review.
  • (Note: Please save your lab pass as “LastName_FirstName_AssignmentName”.) You can find instructions for downloading your lab pass here: https://link.shadowhealth.com/download-lab-pass
  • Once you submit your Documentation Notes to Shadow Health, make sure to copy and paste the same Documentation Notes into your Assignment submission link below.
  • Download, sign, date, and submit your Student Acknowledgement Form found in the Learning Resources for this week.

Grading Criteria

To access your rubric:

Week 7 Assignment 1 DCE Rubric

Submit Your Assignment by Day 7 of Week 7

To submit your Lab Pass:

Week 7 Lab Pass

To participate in this Assignment:

Week 7 Documentation Notes for Assignment 1

To Submit your Student Acknowledgement Form:

Submit your Week 7 Assignment 1 DCE Student Acknowledgement Form

Assignment 2: Lab Assignment (Optional): Practice Assessment: Cardiac and Respiratory Examination

It is crucial to diagnose cardiac and respiratory conditions early due to the critical nature of these organs. Before a condition can be diagnosed, an examination must be conducted. Properly conducting a cardiac and respiratory examination requires detailed knowledge of the examination procedure and experience in performing this assessment.

In preparation for the Comprehensive (Head-to-Toe) Physical Assessment due in Week 9, it is recommended that you practice performing a cardiac and respiratory examination this week.

Note: This is an optional practice physical assessment.

To Prepare

  • Arrange an appropriate time and setting with your volunteer “patient” to perform a cardiac and respiratory examination.
  • Download and review the Cardiac and Respiratory Checklists provided in this week’s Learning Resources as well as review the Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination online media.
  • Ensure that you have a stethoscope to perform the examination.

Optional Lab Assignment

  • Perform the cardiac and respiratory examination. Be sure to cover all of the areas listed in the checklist and to use the equipment appropriately.

What’s Coming Up in Week 8?

Next week, you will explore how to accurately assess the musculoskeletal system.

Week 8 Required Media

Next week, you will need to view several videos and animations in the Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination prior to completing your Discussion. There are several videos of various lengths. Please plan ahead to ensure you have time to view these media programs to complete your Discussion on time.

Next Week

To go to the next week:

Week 8

Week 8: Assessment of the Musculoskeletal System

A 46-year-old man walks into a doctor’s office complaining of tripping over doorways more frequently. He does not know why. What could be the causes of this condition?

Without the ability to use the complex structure and range of movement afforded by the musculoskeletal system, many of the physical activities individuals enjoy would be curtailed. Maintaining the health of the musculoskeletal system will ensure that patients live a life of full mobility. One of the most basic steps that can be taken to preserve the health of the musculoskeletal system is to perform an assessment.

This week, you will explore how to assess the musculoskeletal system.

Learning Objectives

Students will:

  • Evaluate abnormal musculoskeletal findings
  • Apply concepts, theories, and principles relating to health assessment techniques and diagnoses for the musculoskeletal system

Learning Resources

Required Readings

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

  • Chapter 4, “Vital Signs and Pain Assessment” (Previously read in Week 6)
  • Chapter 22, “Musculoskeletal System”

This chapter describes the process of assessing the musculoskeletal system. In addition, the authors explore the anatomy and physiology of the musculoskeletal system.

Dains, J. E., Baumann, L. C., & Scheibel, P. (2019). Advanced health assessment and clinical diagnosis in primary care (6th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Advanced Health Assessment and Clinical Diagnosis in Primary Care, 6th Edition by Dains, J.E., Baumann, L. C., & Scheibel, P. Copyright 2019 by Mosby. Reprinted by permission of Mosby via the Copyright Clearance Center.

Chapter 22, “Lower Extremity Limb Pain”
This chapter outlines how to take a focused history and perform a physical exam to determine the cause of limb pain. It includes a discussion of the most common tests used to assess musculoskeletal disorders.

Chapter 24, “Low Back Pain (Acute)”
The focus of this chapter is the identification of the causes of lower back pain. It includes suggested physical exams and potential diagnoses.

Sullivan, D. D. (2019). Guide to clinical documentation (3rd ed.). Philadelphia, PA: F. A. Davis.

  • Chapter 2, “The Comprehensive History and Physical Exam” (“Muscle Strength Grading”) (Previously read in Weeks 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5)
  • Chapter 3, “SOAP Notes”

This section explains the procedural knowledge needed to perform musculoskeletal procedures.

Note: Download this Student Checklist and Abdomen Key Points to use during your practice abdominal examination.

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Musculoskeletal system: Student checklist. In Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination, 9th Edition by Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. Copyright 2019 by Elsevier Health Sciences. Reprinted by permission of Elsevier Health Sciences via the Copyright Clearance Center.

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Musculoskeletal system: Key points. In Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination, 9th Edition by Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. Copyright 2019 by Elsevier Health Sciences. Reprinted by permission of Elsevier Health Sciences via the Copyright Clearance Center.

Katz, J. N., Lyons, N., Wolff, L. S., Silverman, J., Emrani, P., Holt, H. L., … Losina, E. (2011). Medical decision-making among Hispanics and non-Hispanic Whites with chronic back and knee pain: A qualitative study. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 12(1), 78–85.

This study examines the medical decision making among Hispanics and non-Hispanic whites. The authors also analyze the preferred information sources used for making decisions in these populations.

Smuck, M., Kao, M., Brar, N., Martinez-Ith, A., Choi, J., & Tomkins-Lane, C. C. (2014). Does physical activity influence the relationship between low back pain and obesity? The Spine Journal, 14(2), 209–216. doi:10.1016/j.spinee.2013.11.010

Shiri, R., Solovieva, S., Husgafvel-Pursiainen, K., Telama, R., Yang, X., Viikari, J., Raitakari, O. T., & Viikari-Juntura, E. (2013). The role of obesity and physical activity in non-specific and radiating low back pain: The Young Finns study. Seminars in Arthritis & Rheumatism, 42(6), 640–650. doi:10.1016/j.semarthrit.2012.09.002

Document: Episodic/Focused SOAP Note Exemplar (Word document)
Document: Episodic/Focused SOAP Note Template (Word document)

Optional Resource

LeBlond, R. F., Brown, D. D., & DeGowin, R. L. (2014). DeGowin’s diagnostic examination (10th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw Hill Medical.

Chapter 13, “The Spine, Pelvis, and Extremities” (pp. 585–682)

In this chapter, the authors explain the physiology of the spine, pelvis, and extremities. The chapter also describes how to examine the spine, pelvis, and extremities.

Required Media

Musculoskeletal System – Week 8 (12m)

Online media for Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination

In addition to this week’s resources, it is highly recommended that you access and view the resources included with the course text, Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination. Focus on the videos and animations in Chapter 21 that relate to the assessment of the musculoskeletal system. Refer to the Week 4 Learning Resources area for access instructions on https://evolve.elsevier.com/

Discussion: Assessing Musculoskeletal Pain

The body is constantly sending signals about its health. One of the most easily recognized signals is pain. Musculoskeletal conditions comprise one of the leading causes of severe long-term pain in patients. The musculoskeletal system is an elaborate system of interconnected levers that provides the body with support and mobility. Because of the interconnectedness of the musculoskeletal system, identifying the causes of pain can be challenging. Accurately interpreting the cause of musculoskeletal pain requires an assessment process informed by patient history and physical exams.

In this Discussion, you will consider case studies that describe abnormal findings in patients seen in a clinical setting.

To prepare:

  • By Day 1 of this week, you will be assigned to one of the following specific case studies for this Discussion. Please see the “Course Announcements” section of the classroom for your assignment from your Instructor.
  • Your Discussion post should be in the Episodic/Focused SOAP Note format rather than the traditional narrative style Discussion posting format. Refer to Chapter 2 of the Sullivan text and the Episodic/Focused SOAP Template in the Week 5 Learning Resources for guidance. Remember that all Episodic/Focused SOAP notes have specific data included in every patient case.
  • Review the following case studies:
Case 1: Back Pain

Photo Credit: University of Virginia. (n.d.). Lumbar Spine Anatomy [Photograph]. Retrieved from http://www.med-ed.virginia.edu/courses/rad/ext/5lumbar/01anatomy.html. Used with permission of University of Virginia.

A 42-year-old male reports pain in his lower back for the past month. The pain sometimes radiates to his left leg. In determining the cause of the back pain, based on your knowledge of anatomy, what nerve roots might be involved? How would you test for each of them? What other symptoms need to be explored? What are your differential diagnoses for acute low back pain? Consider the possible origins using the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) guidelines as a framework. What physical examination will you perform? What special maneuvers will you perform?

Case 2: Ankle Pain

Photo Credit: University of Virginia. (n.d.). Lateral view of ankle showing Boehler’s angle [Photograph]. Retrieved from http://www.med-ed.virginia.edu/courses/rad/ext/8ankle/01anatomy.html. Used with permission of University of Virginia.

A 46-year-old female reports pain in both of her ankles, but she is more concerned about her right ankle. She was playing soccer over the weekend and heard a “pop.” She is able to bear weight, but it is uncomfortable. In determining the cause of the ankle pain, based on your knowledge of anatomy, what foot structures are likely involved? What other symptoms need to be explored? What are your differential diagnoses for ankle pain? What physical examination will you perform? What special maneuvers will you perform? Should you apply the Ottawa ankle rules to determine if you need additional testing?

Case 3: Knee Pain

Photo Credit: University of Virginia. (n.d.). Normal Knee Anatomy [Photograph]. Retrieved from http://www.med-ed.virginia.edu/courses/rad/ext/7knee/01anatomy.html. Used with permission of University of Virginia.

A 15-year-old male reports dull pain in both knees. Sometimes one or both knees click, and the patient describes a catching sensation under the patella. In determining the causes of the knee pain, what additional history do you need? What categories can you use to differentiate knee pain? What are your specific differential diagnoses for knee pain? What physical examination will you perform? What anatomic structures are you assessing as part of the physical examination? What special maneuvers will you perform?

With regard to the case study you were assigned:

  • Review this week’s Learning Resources, and consider the insights they provide about the case study.
  • Consider what history would be necessary to collect from the patient in the case study you were assigned.
  • Consider what physical exams and diagnostic tests would be appropriate to gather more information about the patient’s condition. How would the results be used to make a diagnosis?
  • Identify at least five possible conditions that may be considered in a differential diagnosis for the patient.

Note: Before you submit your initial post, replace the subject line (“Discussion – Week 8”) with “Review of Case Study ___.” Fill in the blank with the number of the case study you were assigned.

By Day 3 of Week 8

Post an episodic/focused note about the patient in the case study to which you were assigned using the episodic/focused note template provided in the Week 5 resources. Provide evidence from the literature to support diagnostic tests that would be appropriate for each case. List five different possible conditions for the patient’s differential diagnosis, and justify why you selected each.

Note: For this Discussion, you are required to complete your initial post before you will be able to view and respond to your colleagues’ postings. Begin by clicking on the “Post to Discussion Question” link, and then select “Create Thread” to complete your initial post. Remember, once you click on Submit, you cannot delete or edit your own posts, and you cannot post anonymously. Please check your post carefully before clicking on Submit!

Read a selection of your colleagues’ responses.

By Day 6 of Week 8

Respond to at least two of your colleagues on 2 different days who were assigned different case studies than you. Analyze the possible conditions from your colleagues’ differential diagnoses. Determine which of the conditions you would reject and why. Identify the most likely condition, and justify your reasoning.

Submission and Grading Information

Grading Criteria

To access your rubric:

Week 8 Discussion Rubric

Post by Day 3 of Week 8 and Respond by Day 6 of Week 8

To Participate in this Discussion:

Week 8 Discussion

Assignment: Lab Assignment (Optional): Practice Assessment: Musculoskeletal Examination

A description of symptoms alone is not enough to form an accurate diagnosis of musculoskeletal conditions. Before forming a diagnosis, advanced practice nurses need to perform a physical examination. Although the musculoskeletal examination is relatively simple, it still needs to be performed multiple times before it can be mastered.

In preparation for the Comprehensive (Head-to-Toe) Physical Assessment due in Week 9, it is recommended that you practice performing a musculoskeletal examination this week.

Note: This is a practice physical assessment.   

To Prepare

  • Arrange an appropriate time and setting with your volunteer “patient” to perform a musculoskeletal examination.
  • Download and review the Musculoskeletal Checklist provided in this week’s Learning Resources as well as review the Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination online media.

The Lab Assignment

Complete the following in Shadow Health:

  • Musculoskeletal (Practice)

What’s Coming Up in Week 9?

Next week, you will examine appropriate methods for assessing the cognition and the neurologic systems during your Discussion. You also will complete the last assessment, Comprehensive (Head-to-Toe) Physical Assessment. Once again, you will conduct this assessment in the Digital Clinical Experience using the simulation tool, Shadow Health. Make sure to plan your time accordingly.

Week 9 Required Media

Next week, you will need to view several videos and animations in the Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination as well as other media, as required, prior to completing your Discussion. There are several videos of various lengths. Please plan ahead to ensure you have time to view these media programs to complete your Discussion on time.

Next Week

To go to the next week:

Week 9

Week 9: Assessment of Cognition and the Neurologic System

A 63-year-old woman comes to your office because she’s been forgetting things…a young mother comes in concerned because her baby fails to make eye contact and is unresponsive to touch…a teenager comes in and a parent complains that the teen obsessively washes his hands.

An array of neurological conditions could be causing the above symptoms. When assessing the neurologic system, it is vital to formulate an accurate diagnosis as early as possible to prevent continued damage and deterioration of a patient’s quality of life.

This week, you will explore methods for assessing the cognition and the neurologic system.

Learning Objectives

Students will:

  • Evaluate abnormal neurological symptoms
  • Apply concepts, theories, and principles relating to health assessment techniques and diagnoses for cognition and the neurologic system
  • Assess health conditions based on a head-to-toe physical examination

Learning Resources

Required Readings

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

  • Chapter 7, “Mental Status”

This chapter revolves around the mental status evaluation of an individual’s overall cognitive state. The chapter includes a list of mental abnormalities and their symptoms.

  • Chapter 23, “Neurologic System”

The authors of this chapter explore the anatomy and physiology of the neurologic system. The authors also describe neurological examinations and potential findings.

Dains, J. E., Baumann, L. C., & Scheibel, P. (2019). Advanced health assessment and clinical diagnosis in primary care (6th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Advanced Health Assessment and Clinical Diagnosis in Primary Care, 6th Edition by Dains, J.E., Baumann, L. C., & Scheibel, P. Copyright 2019 by Mosby. Reprinted by permission of Mosby via the Copyright Clearance Center.

  • Chapter 4, “Affective Changes”

This chapter outlines how to identify the potential cause of affective changes in a patient. The authors provide a suggested approach to the evaluation of this type of change, and they include specific tools that can be used as part of the diagnosis.

  • Chapter 9, “Confusion in Older Adults”

This chapter focuses on causes of confusion in older adults, with an emphasis on dementia. The authors include suggested questions for taking a focused history as well as what to look for in a physical examination.

  • Chapter 13, “Dizziness”

Dizziness can be a symptom of many underlying conditions. This chapter outlines the questions to ask a patient in taking a focused history and different tests to use in a physical examination.

  • Chapter 19, “Headache”

The focus of this chapter is the identification of the causes of headaches. The first step is to ensure that the headache is not a life-threatening condition. The authors give suggestions for taking a thorough history and performing a physical exam.

  • Chapter 31, “Sleep Problems”

In this chapter, the authors highlight the main causes of sleep problems. They also provide possible questions to use in taking the patient’s history, things to look for when performing a physical exam, and possible laboratory and diagnostic studies that might be useful in making the diagnosis.

Sullivan, D. D. (2019). Guide to clinical documentation (3rd ed.). Philadelphia, PA: F. A. Davis.

  • Chapter 2, “The Comprehensive History and Physical Exam” (“Cranial Nerves and Their Function” and “Grading Reflexes”) (Previously read in Weeks 1, 2, 3, and 5)

Note: Download the Physical Examination Objective Data Checklist to use as you complete the Comprehensive (Head-to-Toe) Physical Assessment assignment.

Seidel, H. M., Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2011). Physical examination objective data checklist. In Mosby’s guide to physical examination (7th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Mosby’s Guide to Physical Examination, 7th Edition by Seidel, H. M., Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. Copyright 2011 by Elsevier. Reprinted by permission of Elsevier via the Copyright Clearance Center.

Note: Download and review the Student Checklists and Key Points to use during your practice neurological examination.

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Neurologic system: Student checklist. In Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination, 9th Edition by Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. Copyright 2019 by Elsevier Health Sciences. Reprinted by permission of Elsevier Health Sciences via the Copyright Clearance Center.

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Neurologic system: Key points. In Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination, 9th Edition by Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. Copyright 2019 by Elsevier Health Sciences. Reprinted by permission of Elsevier Health Sciences via the Copyright Clearance Center.

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Mental status: Student checklist. In Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination, 9th Edition by Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. Copyright 2019 by Elsevier Health Sciences. Reprinted by permission of Elsevier Health Sciences via the Copyright Clearance Center.

Bearden , S. T., & Nay, L. B. (2011). Utility of EEG in differential diagnosis of adults with unexplained acute alteration of mental status. American Journal of Electroneurodiagnostic Technology, 51(2), 92–104.

This article reviews the use of electrocenographs (EEG) to assist in differential diagnoses. The authors provide differential diagnostic scenarios in which the EEG was useful.

Athilingam, P ., Visovsky, C., & Elliott, A. F. (2015). Cognitive screening in persons with chronic diseases in primary care: Challenges and recommendations for practice. American Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease & Other Dementias, 30(6), 547–558. doi:10.1177/1533317515577127

Sinclair , A. J., Gadsby, R., Hillson, R., Forbes, A., & Bayer, A. J. (2013). Brief report: Use of the Mini-Cog as a screening tool for cognitive impairment in diabetes in primary care. Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice, 100(1), e23–e25. doi:10.1016/j.diabres.2013.01.001

Roalf, D. R., Moberg, P. J., Xei, S. X., Wolk, D. A., Moelter, S. T., & Arnold, S. E. (2013). Comparative accuracies of two common screening instruments for classification of Alzheimer’s disease, mild cognitive impairment, and healthy aging. Alzheimer’s & Dementia, 9(5), 529–537. doi:10.1016/j.jalz.2012.10.001. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4036230/

Shadow Health Support and Orientation Resources

Use the following resources to guide you through your Shadow Health orientation as well as other support resources:

Frey, C. [Chris Frey]. (2015, September 4). Student orientation [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rfd_8pTJBkY

Shadow Health. (n.d.). Shadow Health help desk. Retrieved from https://support.shadowhealth.com/hc/en-us

Document: Shadow Health. (2014). Useful tips and tricks (Version 2) (PDF)

Document: Student Acknowledgement Form (Word document)

Note: You will sign and date this form each time you complete your DCE Assignment in Shadow Health to acknowledge your commitment to Walden University’s Code of Conduct.

Document: DCE (Shadow Health) Documentation Template for Comprehensive (Head-to-Toe) Physical Assessment (Word document)

Use this template to complete your Assignment 3 for this week.

Optional Resources

LeBlond, R. F., Brown, D. D., & DeGowin, R. L. (2014). DeGowin’s diagnostic examination (10th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw Hill Medical.

  • Chapter 14, “The Neurologic Examination” (pp. 683–765)

This chapter provides an overview of the nervous system. The authors also explain the basics of neurological exams.

  • Chapter 15, “Mental Status, Psychiatric, and Social Evaluations” (pp. 766–786)

In this chapter, the authors provide a list of common psychiatric syndromes. The authors also explain the mental, psychiatric, and social evaluation process.

Mahlknecht, P., Hotter, A., Hussl, A., Esterhammer, R., Schockey, M., & Seppi, K. (2010). Significance of MRI in diagnosis and differential diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. Neurodegenerative Diseases, 7(5), 300–318.

Required Media

Neurologic System – Week 9 (16m)

Online media for Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination

It is highly recommended that you access and view the resources included with the course text, Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination. Focus on the videos and animations in Chapters 7 and 23 that relate to the assessment of cognition and the neurologic system. Refer to the Week 4 Learning Resources area for access instructions on  https://evolve.elsevier.com/

Assignment 1: Case Study Assignment: Assessing Neurological Symptoms

Imagine not being able to form new memories. This is the reality patients with anterograde amnesia face. Although this form of amnesia is rare, it can result from severe brain trauma. Anterograde amnesia demonstrates just how impactful brain disorders can be to a patient’s quality of living. Accurately assessing neurological symptoms is a complex process that involves the analysis of many factors.

In this Case Study Assignment, you will consider case studies that describe abnormal findings in patients seen in a clinical setting.

To Prepare

  • By Day 1 of this week, you will be assigned to a specific case study for this Case Study Assignment. Please see the “Course Announcements” section of the classroom for your assignment from your Instructor.
  • Also, your Case Study Assignment should be in the Episodic/Focused SOAP Note format rather than the traditional narrative style format. Refer to Chapter 2 of the Sullivan text and the Episodic/Focused SOAP Template in the Week 5 Learning Resources for guidance. Remember that all Episodic/Focused SOAP notes have specific data included in every patient case.

With regard to the case study you were assigned:

  • Review this week’s Learning Resources, and consider the insights they provide about the case study.
  • Consider what history would be necessary to collect from the patient in the case study you were assigned.
  • Consider what physical exams and diagnostic tests would be appropriate to gather more information about the patient’s condition. How would the results be used to make a diagnosis?
  • Identify at least five possible conditions that may be considered in a differential diagnosis for the patient.

The Case Study Assignment

Use the Episodic/Focused SOAP Template and create an episodic/focused note about the patient in the case study to which you were assigned using the episodic/focused note template provided in the Week 5 resources. Provide evidence from the literature to support diagnostic tests that would be appropriate for each case. List five different possible conditions for the patient’s differential diagnosis, and justify why you selected each.

By Day 6 of Week 9

Submit your Assignment.

Submission and Grading Information

To submit your completed Assignment for review and grading, do the following:

  • Please save your Assignment using the naming convention “WK9Assgn1+last name+first initial.(extension)” as the name.
  • Click the Week 9 Assignment 1 Rubric to review the Grading Criteria for the Assignment.
  • Click the Week 9 Assignment 1 link. You will also be able to “View Rubric” for grading criteria from this area.
  • Next, from the Attach File area, click on the Browse My Computer button. Find the document you saved as “WK9Assgn1+last name+first initial.(extension)” and click Open.
  • If applicable: From the Plagiarism Tools area, click the checkbox for I agree to submit my paper(s) to the Global Reference Database.
  • Click on the Submit button to complete your submission.

Grading Criteria

To access your rubric:

Week 9 Assignment 1 Rubric

Check Your Assignment Draft for Authenticity

To check your Assignment draft for authenticity:

Submit your Week 9 Assignment 1 draft and review the originality report.

Submit Your Assignment by Day 6 of Week 9

To participate in this Assignment:

Week 9 Assignment 1

Assignment 2: Lab Assignment: Practice Assessment: Neurological Examination

Short of opening a patient’s cranium or requesting a brain scan, what can an advanced practice nurse do to determine the cause of neurological symptoms? A multitude of techniques can be used to generate a neurological diagnosis.

In preparation for the Comprehensive (Head-to-Toe) Physical Assessment due this week, it is recommended that you practice performing a neurological examination.

Note: This is a practice physical assessment.

To Prepare

  • Arrange an appropriate time and setting with a volunteer “patient” to perform a neurological examination.
  • Download and review the Neurological Checklist provided in this week’s Learning Resources as well as review Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination online media.

The Lab Assignment

Complete the following in Shadow Health:

  • Neurological (Practice)

Assignment 3: Digital Clinical Experience: Comprehensive (Head-to-Toe) Physical Assessment

Throughout this course, you were encouraged to practice conducting various physical assessments on multiple areas of the body, ranging from the head to the toes. Each of these assessments, however, was conducted independently of one another. For this DCE Assignment, you connect the knowledge and skills you gained from each individual assessment to perform a comprehensive head-to-toe physical examination in your Digital Clinical Experience.

To Prepare

  • Review this week’s Learning Resources, and download and review the Physical Examination Objective Data Checklist as well as the Student Checklists and Key Points documents related to neurologic system and mental status.
  • Review the Shadow Health Resources provided in this week’s Learning Resources specifically the tutorial to guide you through the documentation and interpretation with the Shadow Health platform. Review the examples also provided.
  • Review the DCE (Shadow Health) Documentation Template for Comprehensive (Head-to-Toe) Physical Assessment found in this week’s Learning Resources and use this template to complete your Documentation Notes for this DCE Assignment.
  • Access and login to Shadow Health using the link in the left-hand navigation of the Blackboard classroom.
  • Review the Week 9 DCE Comprehensive Physical Assessment Rubric provided in the Assignment submission area for details on completing the Assessment in Shadow Health.

Note: There are 2 parts to this assignment – the lab pass and the documentation. You must achieve a total score of 80% in order to pass this assignment. Carefully review the rubric and video presentation in order to fully understand the requirements of this assignment.

DCE Comprehensive Physical Assessment:

Complete the following in Shadow Health:

  • Episodic/Focused Note for Comprehensive Physical Assessment of Tina Jones (180 minutes)

Note: Each Shadow Health Assessment may be attempted and reopened as many times as necessary prior to the due date to achieve a total of 80% or better (this includes your DCE and your Documentation Notes), but you must take all attempts by the Week 9 Day 7 deadline. 

Submission and Grading Information

By Day 7 of Week 9

  • Complete your Comprehensive (Head-to-Toe) Physical Assessment DCE Assignment in Shadow Health via the Shadow Health link in Blackboard.
  • Once you complete your Assignment in Shadow Health, you will need to download your lab pass and upload it to the corresponding Assignment in Blackboard for your faculty review.
  • (Note: Please save your lab pass as “LastName_FirstName_AssignmentName”.) You can find instructions for downloading your lab pass here: https://link.shadowhealth.com/download-lab-pass
  • Once you submit your Documentation Notes to Shadow Health, make sure to copy and paste the same Documentation Notes into your Assignment submission link below.
  • Download, sign, date, and submit your Student Acknowledgement Form found in the Learning Resources for this week.
  • Note: You must pass this assignment with a minimum score of 80%  in order to pass the class. Once submitted, there are not any opportunities to revise or repeat this assignment. 

Grading Criteria

To access your rubric:

Week 9 Assignment 3 DCE Rubric

Submit Your Assignment by Day 7 of Week 9

To submit your Lab Pass:

Week 9 Lab Pass

To sumit this required part of the Assignment:

Week 9 Documentation Notes for Assignment 3

To Submit your Student Acknowledgement Form:

Submit your Week 9 Assignment 3 DCE Student Acknowledgement Form

What’s Coming Up in Week 10?

Next week, you will examine how to assess problems with the breasts, genitalia, rectum, and prostate while making the patient feel safe, listened to, and cared about using a non-invasive approach. Once again, you will use a SOAP note format to complete your Lab Assignment for this week.

Week 10 Required Media

Next week, you will need to view several videos and animations in the Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination as well as other media, as required, prior to completing your Discussion. There are several videos of various lengths. Please plan ahead to ensure you have time to view these media programs to complete your Lab Assignment on time.

Next Week

To go to the next week:

Week 10

Week 10: Special Examinations—Breast, Genital, Prostate, and Rectal

One critical element of any physical exam is the ability of the examiner to put the patient at ease. By putting the patient at ease, nurses are more likely to glean quality, meaningful information that will help the patient get the best care possible. When someone feels safe, listened to, and cared about, exams often go more smoothly. This is especially true when dealing with issues concerning breasts, genitals, prostates, and rectums, which are subjects that many patients find difficult to talk about. As a result, it is important to gain a firm understanding of how to gain vital information and perform the necessary assessment techniques in as non-invasive a manner as possible.

For this week, you explore how to assess problems with the breasts, genitalia, rectum, and prostate.

Learning Objectives

Students will:

  • Evaluate abnormal findings on the genitalia and rectum
  • Apply concepts, theories, and principles relating to health assessment techniques and diagnoses for the breasts, genitalia, prostate, and rectum

Learning Resources

Required Readings

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

  • Chapter 17, “Breasts and Axillae”

This chapter focuses on examining the breasts and axillae. The authors describe the examination procedures and the anatomy and physiology of breasts.

  • Chapter 19, “Female Genitalia”

In this chapter, the authors explain how to conduct an examination of female genitalia. The chapter also describes the form and function of female genitalia.

  • Chapter 20, “Male Genitalia”

The authors explain the biology of the penis, testicles, epididymides, scrotum, prostate gland, and seminal vesicles. Additionally, the chapter explains how to perform an exam of these areas.

  • Chapter 21, “Anus, Rectum, and Prostate”

This chapter focuses on performing an exam of the anus, rectum, and prostate. The authors also explain the anatomy and physiology of the anus, rectum, and prostate.

Dains, J. E., Baumann, L. C., & Scheibel, P. (2019). Advanced health assessment and clinical diagnosis in primary care (6th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

Credit Line: Advanced Health Assessment and Clinical Diagnosis in Primary Care, 6th Edition by Dains, J.E., Baumann, L. C., & Scheibel, P. Copyright 2019 by Mosby. Reprinted by permission of Mosby via the Copyright Clearance Center.

  • Chapter 5, “Amenorrhea”

Amenorrhea, or the absence of menstruation, is the focus of this chapter. The authors include key questions to ask patients when taking histories and explain what to look for in the physical exam.

  • Chapter 6, “Breast Lumps and Nipple Discharge”

This chapter focuses on the important topic of breast lumps and nipple discharge. Because breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women, it is important to get an accurate diagnosis. Information in the chapter includes key questions to ask and what to look for in the physical exam.

  • Chapter 7, “Breast Pain”

Determining the cause of breast pain can be difficult. This chapter examines how to determine the likely cause of the pain through diagnostic tests, physical examination, and careful analysis of a patient’s health history.

  • Chapter 27, “Penile Discharge”

The focus of this chapter is on how to diagnose the causes of penile discharge. The authors include specific questions to ask when gathering a patient’s history to narrow down the likely diagnosis. They also give advice on performing a focused physical exam.

  • Chapter 36, “Vaginal Bleeding”

In this chapter, the causes of vaginal bleeding are explored. The authors focus on symptoms outside the regular menstrual cycle. The authors discuss key questions to ask the patient as well as specific physical examination procedures and laboratory studies that may be useful in reaching a diagnosis.

  • Chapter 37, “Vaginal Discharge and Itching”

This chapter examines the process of identifying causes of vaginal discharge and itching. The authors include questions on the characteristics of the discharge, the possibility of the issues being the result of a sexually transmitted infection, and how often the discharge occurs. A chart highlights potential diagnoses based on patient history, physical findings, and diagnostic studies.

Sullivan, D. D. (2019). Guide to clinical documentation (3rd ed.). Philadelphia, PA: F. A. Davis.

  • Chapter 3, “SOAP Notes” (Previously read in Week 8)

Cucci, E., Santoro, A., DiGesu, C., DiCerce, R., & Sallustio, G. (2015). Sclerosing adenosis of the breast: Report of two cases and review of the literature. Polish Journal of Radiology, 80, 122–127. doi:10.12659/PJR.892706. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4356184/

Sabbagh , C., Mauvis, F., Vecten, A., Ainseba, N., Cosse, C., Diouf, M., & Regimbeau, J. M. (2014). What is the best position for analyzing the lower and middle rectum and sphincter function in a digital rectal examination? A randomized, controlled study in men. Digestive and Liver Disease, 46(12), 1082–1085. doi:10.1016/j.dld.2014.08.045

Westhoff , C. L., Jones, H. E., & Guiahi, M. (2011). Do new guidelines and technology make the routine pelvic examination obsolete? Journal of Women’s Health, 20(1), 5–10.

This article describes the benefits of new technology and guidelines for pelvic exams. The authors also detail which guidelines and technology may become obsolete.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019). Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/std/#

This section of the CDC website provides a range of information on sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The website includes reports on STDs, related projects and initiatives, treatment information, and program tools.

Document: Final Exam Review (Word document)

Optional Resource

LeBlond, R. F., Brown, D. D., & DeGowin, R. L. (2014). DeGowin’s diagnostic examination (10th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw Hill Medical.

  • Chapter 8, “The Chest: Chest Wall, Pulmonary, and Cardiovascular Systems; The Breasts” (Section 2, “The Breasts,” pp. 434–444)Section 2 of this chapter focuses on the anatomy and physiology of breasts. The section provides descriptions of breast examinations and common breast conditions.
  • Chapter 11, “The Female Genitalia and Reproductive System” (pp. 541–562)In this chapter, the authors provide an overview of the female reproductive system. The authors also describe symptoms of disorders in the reproductive system.
  • Chapter 12, “The Male Genitalia and Reproductive System” (pp. 563–584)The authors of this chapter detail the anatomy of the male reproductive system. Additionally, the authors describe how to conduct an exam of the male reproductive system.
  • Review of Chapter 9, “The Abdomen, Perineum, Anus, and Rectosigmoid” (pp. 445–527)

Required Media

Special Examinations – Breast, Genital, Prostate, and Rectal – Week 10 (14m)

Online media for Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination

It is highly recommended that you access and view the resources included with the course text, Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination. Focus on the videos and animations in Chapters 16 and 18–20 that relate to special examinations, including breast, genital, prostate, and rectal. Refer to the Week 4 Learning Resources area for access instructions on https://evolve.elsevier.com/

Assignment: Lab Assignment: Assessing the Genitalia and Rectum

Patients are frequently uncomfortable discussing with healthcare professional’s issues that involve the genitalia and rectum; however, gathering an adequate history and properly conducting a physical exam are vital. Examining case studies of genital and rectal abnormalities can help prepare advanced practice nurses to accurately assess patients with problems in these areas.

In this Lab Assignment, you will analyze an Episodic note case study that describes abnormal findings in patients seen in a clinical setting. You will consider what history should be collected from the patients, as well as which physical exams and diagnostic tests should be conducted. You will also formulate a differential diagnosis with several possible conditions.

To Prepare

  • Review the Episodic note case study your instructor provides you for this week’s Assignment. Please see the “Course Announcements” section of the classroom for your Episodic note case study.
  • Based on the Episodic note case study:
    • Review this week’s Learning Resources, and consider the insights they provide about the case study. Refer to Chapter 3 of the Sullivan resource to guide you as you complete your Lab Assignment.
    • Search the Walden library or the Internet for evidence-based resources to support your answers to the questions provided.
    • Consider what history would be necessary to collect from the patient in the case study.
    • Consider what physical exams and diagnostic tests would be appropriate to gather more information about the patient’s condition. How would the results be used to make a diagnosis?
    • Identify at least five possible conditions that may be considered in a differential diagnosis for the patient.

The Lab Assignment

Using evidence-based resources from your search, answer the following questions and support your answers using current evidence from the literature.

  • Analyze the subjective portion of the note. List additional information that should be included in the documentation.
  • Analyze the objective portion of the note. List additional information that should be included in the documentation.
  • Is the assessment supported by the subjective and objective information? Why or why not?
  • Would diagnostics be appropriate for this case, and how would the results be used to make a diagnosis?
  • Would you reject/accept the current diagnosis? Why or why not? Identify three possible conditions that may be considered as a differential diagnosis for this patient. Explain your reasoning using at least three different references from current evidence-based literature.

By Day 7 of Week 10

Submit your Assignment.

Submission and Grading Information

To submit your completed Assignment for review and grading, do the following:

  • Please save your Assignment using the naming convention “WK10Assgn+last name+first initial.(extension)” as the name.
  • Click the Week 10 Assignment Rubric to review the Grading Criteria for the Assignment.
  • Click the Week 10 Assignment link. You will also be able to “View Rubric” for grading criteria from this area.
  • Next, from the Attach File area, click on the Browse My Computer button. Find the document you saved as “WK10Assgn+last name+first initial.(extension)” and click Open.
  • If applicable: From the Plagiarism Tools area, click the checkbox for I agree to submit my paper(s) to the Global Reference Database.
  • Click on the Submit button to complete your submission.

Grading Criteria

To access your rubric:

Week 10 Assignment Rubric

Check Your Assignment Draft for Authenticity

To check your Assignment draft for authenticity:

Submit your Week 10 Assignment draft and review the originality report.

Submit Your Assignment by Day 7 of Week 10

To participate in this Assignment:

Week 10 Assignment

What’s Coming Up in Module 4?

Next week, you will consider how evidence-based practice guidelines and ethical considerations factor into health assessments. You specifically explore evidence-based practice guidelines and ethical considerations for specific scenarios.

Week 11 Final Exam

Next week, you take your Final Exam, which will cover the topics and resources from Weeks 7, 8, 9, and 10 for this course. Please take the time to review and plan your time accordingly so that you may be better prepared for your exam.

Next Module

To go to the next Module:

Module 4

Module 4: Ethics in Assessments

What’s Happening in This Module?

Module 4: Ethics in Assessments is a 1-week module, Week 11 of the course and the last module in which you examine evidence-based practice guidelines and ethical considerations factor into health assessments.

What do I have to do?     When do I have to do it?    
Review your Learning Resources Days 1–7, Week 11
Lab Assignment: Ethical Concerns Submit by Day 6 of Week 11.
Final Exam Complete and Submit By Day 7 of Week 11.

 

Go to the Module’s Content

Week 11

 Week 11: The Ethics Behind Assessment

Consider the following scenarios:

  • You are a nurse at a large county hospital. One of your patients is leaning toward selecting a certain radical treatment for cancer, to which the family is in opposition. The family is concerned about making the correct decision and asks for your advice.
  • The state of Oregon has passed a “Death with Dignity” act that allows for euthanasia in certain situations. One of your patients suffering from terminal cancer is thinking of moving there to take advantage of this law and asks your opinion.

Throughout this course, you have explored a wide range of health assessments and abnormal examination findings. Although you have predominantly focused on the procedural aspects of health assessment, this week, you will focus on ethical considerations that should be taken into account when advising patients or their families.

This week, you will consider how evidence-based practice guidelines and ethical considerations factor into health assessments. You will also evaluate health assessment concepts related to sports physicals and well-child and well-woman examinations.

Learning Objectives

Students will:

  • Apply evidence-based practice guidelines to make an informed healthcare decision
  • Apply ethical considerations to a health assessment response
  • Apply concepts, theories, and principles relating to sports physicals and well-child and well-woman examinations
  • Identify  concepts, theories, and principles related to advanced health assessment

Learning Resources

Required Readings

Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2019). Seidel’s guide to physical examination: An interprofessional approach (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.

  • Chapter 24, “Sports Participation Evaluation”

In this chapter, the authors describe the process of a sports participation evaluation. The chapter also states the most common conditions encountered in a sports participation evaluation.

  • Chapter 25, “Putting It All Together”

In this chapter, the authors tie together the concepts introduced in previous chapters. In particular, the chapter has a strong emphasis on the patient-caregiver relationship.

Tingle, J. & Cribb, A. (2014). Nursing law and ethics (4th ed.). Chichester, UK: Wiley Blackwell.

Furman , C. D., Earnshaw, L. A., Farrer, L. A. (2014). A case of inappropriate apolipoprotein E testing in Alzheimer’s disease due to lack of an informed consent discussion. American Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease & Other Dementias, 29(7), 590–595. doi:10.1177/1533317514525829.

Navarro-Illana, P., Aznar, J., & Díez-Domingo, J. (2014). Ethical considerations of universal vaccination against human papilloma virus. BMC Medical Ethics, 15(29). doi:10.1186/1472-6939-15-29. Retrieved from http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6939/15/29

Maron , B. J., Friedman, R. A., & Caplan, A. (2015). Ethics of preparticipation cardiovascular screening for athletes. Nature Reviews Cardiology, 12(6), 375–378. doi:10.1038/nrcardio.2015.21

May, K. H., Marshall, D. L., Burns, T. G., Popoli, D. M. & Polikandriotis, J. A. (2014). Pediatric sports specific return to play guidelines following concussion. The International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, 9(2), 242–255. PMCID: PMC4004129. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4004129/

American Academy of Pediatrics. (2008). Recommendations for preventative pediatric health care (periodicity schedule). Retrieved from https://www.harmonyhpi.com/WCAssets/illinois/assets/IL_MedicaidProviderManual_PEM_AdultPHGsForProviders.pdf

This resource provides recommendations for preventative pediatric healthcare from infancy through adolescence. The periodicity schedule covers a variety of areas, from health history to measurements, developmental/behavioral screenings, physical exams, procedural screenings, and oral health.

Rourke, L., Leduc, D., & Rourke, J. (2017). Rourke Baby Record. Retrieved from http://rourkebabyrecord.ca/

This website provides information on the Rourke Baby Record (RBR). The RBR supplies guidelines on growth and nutrition, developmental surveillance, physical exam parameters, and immunizations for well-baby and child care.

Document: Final Exam Review (Word document)

Required Media

Module 4 Introduction

Dr. Tara Harris reviews the overall expectations for Module 4. Consider how you will manage your time as you review your media and Learning Resources for your Case Study Lab Assignment and your Final exam (3m).

Sports Participation Evaluation – Week 11 (12m)

Assignment 1: Lab Assignment: Ethical Concerns

As an advanced practice nurse, you will run into situations where a patient’s wishes about his or her health conflict with evidence, your own experience, or a family’s wishes. This may create an ethical dilemma. What do you do when these situations occur?

In this Lab Assignment, you will explore evidence-based practice guidelines and ethical considerations for specific scenarios.

To Prepare

Review the scenarios provided by your instructor for this week’s Assignment. Please see the “Course Announcements” section of the classroom for your scenarios.

  • Based on the scenarios provided:
    • Select one scenario, and reflect on the material presented throughout this course.
    • What necessary information would need to be obtained about the patient through health assessments and diagnostic tests?
    • Consider how you would respond as an advanced practice nurse. Review evidence-based practice guidelines and ethical considerations applicable to the scenarios you selected.

The Lab Assignment

Write a detailed one-page narrative (not a formal paper) explaining the health assessment information required for a diagnosis of your selected patient (include the scenario number). Explain how you would respond to the scenario as an advanced practice nurse using evidence-based practice guidelines and applying ethical considerations. Justify your response using at least three different references from current evidence-based literature.

By Day 6 of Week 11

Submit your Assignment.

Submission and Grading Information

To submit your completed Assignment for review and grading, do the following:

  • Please save your Assignment using the naming convention “WK11Assgn+last name+first initial.(extension)” as the name.
  • Click the Week 11 Assignment Rubric to review the Grading Criteria for the Assignment.
  • Click the Week 11 Assignment link. You will also be able to “View Rubric” for grading criteria from this area.
  • Next, from the Attach File area, click on the Browse My Computer button. Find the document you saved as “WK11Assgn+last name+first initial.(extension)” and click Open.
  • If applicable: From the Plagiarism Tools area, click the checkbox for I agree to submit my paper(s) to the Global Reference Database.
  • Click on the Submit button to complete your submission.

Grading Criteria

To access your rubric:

Week 11 Assignment Rubric

Check Your Assignment Draft for Authenticity

To check your Assignment draft for authenticity:

Submit your Week 11 Assignment draft and review the originality report.

Submit Your Assignment by Day 6 of Week 11

To participate in this Assignment:

Week 11 Assignment

Assignment 2: Lab Assignment: Practice Assessment: Mental Health Examination

The Lab Assignment

Complete the following in Shadow Health:

  • Mental Health (Practice)

Exam: Week 11 Final Exam

This exam is a test of your knowledge in preparation for your certification exam. No outside resources, including books, notes, websites, or any other type of resource, are to be used to complete this exam. You are expected to comply with Walden University’s Code of Conduct.

This exam will be on topics covered in weeks 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11. Prior to starting the exam, you should review all of your materials. This exam is timed with a limit of 2 hours for completion. When time is up, your exam will automatically submit.

By Day 7 of Week 11

Complete the Final Exam.

Submission and Grading Information

Submit Your Final Exam by Day 7 of Week 11.

To Complete this Exam:

Week 11 Exam

What’s Coming Up?

Congratulations! After you have finished all of the assignments for this week, you have completed the course. Please submit your Course Evaluation by Day 7.

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