Course Overview: This course provides historical and theoretical foundations of nursing, highlights the regulation of nursing, and explains the structure of health care systems in Canada.
Learning Outcomes
History of Health Care in Canada: Understand how historical events shape the nursing profession.
Professional Nursing Evolution: Discuss the development and changes in nursing roles.
Regulatory Bodies: Examine the influence of nursing associations and regulatory bodies on practice.
Nursing Theory: Explore foundational nursing theories that shape identity and professionalism.
Clinical Judgement: How nursing processes and evidence-informed practice ensure quality care.
Inquiry Skills: Develop exam writing and inquiry skills.
Legal Considerations: Understand privacy, confidentiality, and security in nursing practice.
Topics to be Covered
Health care systems in Canada
History and evolution of the nursing profession
Roles of Registered Nurses and professional identity
Professional and regulatory organizations (CNO, RNAO, CNA, ONA)
Introduction to reflective practice and learning plans
Information literacy skills and scholarly writing
Nursing decision making and clinical judgement
Introductions to nursing theory and personal nursing identities
NCLEX-RN Introduction
Privacy and confidentiality in nursing
Professional portfolio development
Historical Overview of Nursing in Canada
Origins of Professional Nursing:
Indigenous healers and early care opportunities in Canadian colonies.
European religious orders: Contribution of Jesuit priests and female caregivers (e.g., Jeanne Mance, Marguerite d’Youville).
Florence Nightingale:
Influential figure in modern nursing, reducing casualty rates during the Crimean War.
Established nursing as a respected profession through the use of statistics.
Evolution of Nursing Education
Early Nursing Schools: Developed by Florence Nightingale, saw an establishment of formal nursing schools in North America.
Transition to Hospital Training: Hospital schools offered practical training but often with poor living conditions and educational standards.
Recognition of Nursing Organizations:
The formation of nursing associations, like the Canadian Nurses Association, established standards for education and practice.
The impact of women’s rights on nursing organization growth and reliance on volunteerism.
Legislative Changes:
Evolution towards baccalaureate degrees as the entry-to-practice standard; historical context of nursing roles through changing legislation (e.g., Canada Health Act).
Impact of Global Events: Economic downturns and war periods influenced workforce dynamics, leading to reforms aimed at improving nursing education and sustainability in practice.
Nursing Image and Representation
Changing Perceptions: Shift in public perception influenced by education levels and generational differences among nurses.
Media Influence: Exploration of how portrayals of nurses in media affect public image.
Healthy gender distribution in nursing capacity, impacting patient care quality.
Access and Equity in Health Care:
Current challenges include addressing needs of Indigenous populations and enhancing access to health services across demographics.
Emphasis on integrated care models in primary health care delivery, promoting continuity and quality of care workflow.
Health Care System Framework
Canada Health Act Principles:
Public Administration: Health care managed on a non-profit basis.
Comprehensiveness: Coverage of medically necessary services.
Universality: Non-discriminatory access to care.
Portability: Health coverage that moves with registered residents.
Accessibility: Reasonable access to care facilities regardless of socio-economic status.
Call to Action for Future Nursing
Emphasize the necessity for evolving nursing roles to adapt to changing health care environments.
Continued advocacy for policy reforms targeting health equity, quality of care, and sustainability in practice.
Conclusion: Preparing for Week 2
Required Readings: Focus on college and national nursing standards; Revisitation of nursing associations and their roles in supporting nursing practice.