Variations in Health 2

Course code NURS 2004

Credit 1.5

Length 45.0 hours

Course outline View

This course focuses on pathophysiology as it relates to the aging process and selected chronic illnesses. The main focus of this course is on the care of the older adult experiencing a health challenge. Cultural diversity in healing practices will be explored as well as evidence informed research and practice.

Prerequisites

NURS 1007.

Missing prerequisites?

Learn more about VCC's academic upgrading or English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, or discover which university transfer options are right for you.

What you will learn

  • Physiological changes in elderly contributing to disease and illness
  • Recognition and presentation of common disease and illness in the older adult
  • Nursing management of disease and illness for the older adult according to body systems: Integumentary, Cardiovascular, Respiratory, Musculoskeletal, Endocrine, Gastrointestinal, Genitourinary, Neurological, Sensory, Haematology
  • Nursing management, including assessment (holistic assessment, data collection including lab values and diagnostics); pharmacology; identification of real/potential problems; nursing diagnoses; planning of specific nursing interventions; implementing culturally competent care; evaluation of care; collaborating with other members of the health care team; health promotion; client teaching.
  • Therapeutic interventions and treatments
  • Traditional healing practices (eg. acupuncture, smudging, sweat lodge, reiki)
  • Introduction to diagnostics
  • Cultural diversity in health and healing, including end of life
  • Evidence informed research and practice

How to register

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

Course schedules

Select your program to see the available course schedules.

CRN# Duration Delivery Location
60282 May 4, 2026
to July 20, 2026
Lecture
Lab
VCC Broadway Building B See full schedule

Online courses listed without scheduled meeting times can be completed on your own schedule.

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.

Indigenous Territory Acknowledgment

VCC is located on the traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) peoples, and we acknowledge our privilege to be here.