Authors: Carolyn Mikanowicz, RN, PhD
Shelda Shank, RN, BSN, PHN
Communication is a key tool that must be used to elicit cooperation among
health professionals in the delivery of health services. The purpose of this
course is to provide healthcare professionals with a comprehensive overview
of communication strategies that will assist in their daily work and
personal environments. Various types and models of communication are
discussed as well as practical strategies for improving interpersonal
relationships. Clinical environments with healthcare professionals who
share respectful communication show enhanced patient outcomes.

Course objectives include:
• Define communication and list the basic types of human communication.
• Name sources of conflict between healthcare professionals.
• Outline the role that gender plays in styles of communication.

Author: Peggy Goulding, Ph.D.
From the old standbys like cocaine and heroin to the newer club drugs like Ecstasy and GHB ... there has never been such a wide variety of drugs available for abuse, and drug abuse still takes its toll on generation after generation of Americans. This course outlines the neuroanatomy and neurophysiology of drug use, abuse, and addiction; reviews the most common classes of Substance Abuse; and summarizes current approaches to treatment and prevention.

Course objectives include:
• Define and differentiate among drug use, drug abuse, and drug addiction.
• Identify some commonly abused drugs and their characteristic effects.
• Outline issues and concerns specific to the abuse of prescription medications.

Pain Management (3004) View online course now

( Updated 2005 )

Author: Kim Marie Falk, RN, MSN
Pain is one of the most common reasons people enter the healthcare system; yet it is also one of the most widely under-treated health problems, causing suffering and financial burden to both patients and society. Learn the latest in pain management principles and strategies, so you can help your patients achieve optimal pain control.

Course objectives include:
• List factors that influence pain perception.
• Identify misconceptions that are barriers to pain management.
• Outline non-pharmacologic options for pain management.

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Authors: Shelda Shank, RN, BSN, PHN and Joan Ratchford, RN, BSN, MSN

Although common confusion isn't well understood and may be difficult to
manage. Clients with this present challenges to healthcare professionals
because of their increased care needs and risk for injury.

Course objectives include:
• Define confusion — acute and chronic.
• List nursing interventions for confusion.
• Name ways to communicate with the confused patient.
• Summarize assessment of confusion.

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Authors: Shelda Shank, RN, BSN, PHN and Joanne E. Souza RN, BSN, MBA

As in many other industries, laws and regulations significantly impact the functioning of the healthcare industry. All licensed medical professionals work under established standards, comprising local, state, and federal laws as well as specific guidelines. Professional nurses fall under these guidelines and this is where the scope of practice comes into play followed by individual state Nurse Practice Acts (NPA). Some laws, such as those relating to malpractice affect the manner in which the industry operates. Others affect the organization and the environment itself. Therefore, it is increasingly important that nurses understand this complex and dynamic legal minefield.

Healthcare professionals are required to make decisions or complete tasks that can result in legal action initiated by coworkers or clients. Most nurses have the dedication, motivation, education and training to accomplish their jobs and responsibilities accurately and professionally. However, there are instances when regardless of the application of strict standards and practices and attention to detail, incidents can occur which result in litigation. To help avoid these instances, you must be educated and informed of current laws, statutes, standards that directly apply to daily practice and options available to you if your professional conduct is questioned in a court of law.

Course objectives include:

List and describe the three sources of law in the U.S.

Define and compare the terms battery, malpractice and negligence.

Define HIPPA and it’s significance to the healthcare industry.

Outline the standards for competent nursing practice of RNs and LPNs in Ohio.

Review standards for the promotion of client safety in nursing practice.

Identify responsibilities of licensed nurses within the scope of the nursing process.

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