Course Overview
Preliminary course that provides the theoretical foundation for RNFA practice, an expanded perioperative nursing role. Involves 14-16 weeks of facilitated part-time independent study combining on-line learning activities with print-based modules.
Prerequisite(s)
- Registered nurse with 5 years current perioperative nursing experience and CPN(C). CNOR is also acceptable.
Credits
3.0
- Retired
- This course has been retired and is no longer offered. Find other Flexible Learning courses that may interest you.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, the student will be able to:
- Distinguish the role of RNFA from that of the perioperative circulating and scrub nurse role.
- Define the role of the RNFA.
- Identify the differences and similarities between practice as a perioperative circulating and scrub nurse and that as an RNFA.
- Identify factors influencing the RNFA scope of practice.
- Analyze issues related to RNFA practice including supports and barriers to the role.
- Describe relevant legislation governing practice.
- Contrast a variety of perspectives related to the role.
- Relate the historical evolution of the RNFA role to current practice in Canada and the United States.
- Utilize a nursing framework as a foundation for RNFA practice with selected case studies.
- Evaluate how the nursing process is used as a foundation for RNFA practice.
- Describe the RNFA's role in the diagnostic process.
- Perform assessments of simulated surgical patients and analyze and interpret the data obtained.
- Recognize how a system approach can be used in assessment.
- Conduct an interview for the purpose of obtaining a health history.
- Interpret data in relation to anesthetic and surgical intervention.
- Explain issues related to assessment, interpretation and communication of data.
- Analyze and distinguish principles of asepsis, infection control and wound healing as they relate to RNFA practice.
- Describe the chain of infection and barriers to microbial transmission.
- Explore patient factors that influence the incidence of surgical site infection.
- Examine methods that reduce the risk of blood-borne exposures.
- Apply knowledge of wound healing and surgical technique to examine possible complications of wound healing.
- Explore the RNFA's role in the prevention of surgical site infections and wound management.
- Integrate knowledge of surgical anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology and operative techniques to predict RNFA practices.
- Integrate and predict knowledge required of the RNFA for selected surgical procedures.
- Analyze intraoperative RNFA nursing practices that facilitate competent surgical assistance.
- Describe the principals of tissue handling, providing exposure and the correct use of instruments.
- Discuss the primary methods of hemostasis used during surgical intervention.
- Compare the main components of assisting for an open surgical procedure with those used for endoscopic procedures.
- Recognize potential surgical hazards and describe the RNFA's actions to reduce patient risk.
- Describe common signs and symptoms of selected complications.
- Critically analyze appropriate intervention sequencce and actions for the RNFA related to potential surgical hazards and emergencies.
- Identify effective communication skills for use as an interdisciplinary team member.
- Explore the concept of partnership and working in collaboration with the surgeon during the intraoperative phase.
- Describe change theory and practice for facilitating personal/professional role change.
- Evaluate research-based systemic inquiry to prepare for practice.
- Participate in collaborative learning activities.
- Develop an individualized personal learning contract for use during RNFA 6100.
Effective as of Fall 2003
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.