Pathophysiology of Complex Illness

This pathophysiology course focuses on high acuity with medical-surgical health conditions requiring complex care. Students build on existing knowledge of human anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology by examining altered functions for selected body systems. Pertinent microbiology, immunology, epidemiology, pharmacology, diagnostic content and nursing interventions are integrated to reflect the interrelated and holistic nature of the body’s responses to illness and healing for clients in acute care. Students use a critical inquiry to support evidence-informed practice as they engage with course material.

Prerequisites

NURS 2160, NURS 2162, NURS 2265, NURS 2266, NURS 3160, NURS 3163, NURS 3164.

What you will learn

• - Complex care and impact of multiple comorbidities
  - Fluid and electrolyte imbalance in the acutely ill adult
  - Disorders of Ventilation and gas exchange, ABG's advanced, O2 Supply and Demand, V/Q mismatch disorders, alterations in lung compliance and diffusion, oxyhemoglobin disassociation curve
  - Disorders of Cardiac function - acute ischemic heart disease, cardiomyopathy, electrical disorders
  - Neoplasms
  - Disorders of Renal function - acute renal injury, acute on chronic renal disease, ESRD
  - Multiple Trauma, Code Management
  - Sepsis and Shock, types of shock
  - Advanced Case Study presentations
  - Evidenced based practice in high acuity

How to register

This course is offered as part of a VCC program only.

Contact us

If you have any question, please email at advising@vcc.ca.

† This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.