Conceptual Definitions

Major concepts utilized in the organizing framework of the undergraduate and graduate program have been defined by the nursing faculty as:

critical thinking

Critical thinking is an evolutionary relationship between action and knowledge propelled and informed by critical reflection for emancipation.

communication

Communication is a universal function involving human interpretation with the goal of interactive competence.

leadership

Leadership is a process by which an environment is created that empowers people to work toward a shared vision.

research

Research is a process of systematic inquiry for the purpose of validating or developing knowledge. Research traditions emerge from the paradigms or the discipline and relate to phenomena of concern to nursing.

human

Human is viewed as an entity who participates in a family unit, as the unit itself or as a community with inherent worth and dignity throughout the life span. Humans exercise freedom of choice in pursuit of self-actualization and have ultimate accountability for decisions and behavior.

environment

Environment is viewed as consisting of all conditions, circumstances, and influences that are part of being and becoming.

health

Health is a function of perception and observation. Health incorporates illness and wellness and is viewed as actualization of human potential for development.

nursing

Nursing is the practice of providing care and enacting roles within the health care system, based on substantive knowledge. The nursing process is a professional decision strategy carried out in a reciprocal manner by the nurse and the client to promote health, quality of life, and dignity in death.

nursing intervention

Nursing intervention is the culmination of how the world sees who we are and what we do as nurses. It is enacted in the professional role in order to improve client outcomes.

advanced nursing practice

Advanced nursing practice is enactment of the professional nursing role based on graduate preparation providing depth and breadth of knowledge specific to the role.