Beyond the prerequisite courses and core requirements a nurse must complete as part of the Arkansas State University (A-State) online RN to BSN program, there are two electives required to graduate. The subject matter of these elective courses is innovative and timely and can be greatly beneficial to nurses working toward a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The following is a list of the upper-level nursing electives from which you can choose.
Women’s Health: Past, Present and Future
Traditionally, modern healthcare practices have been largely based on men’s medical needs. Women‘s health has gotten increasing attention recently, which allows care that targets their specific healthcare needs and any potential challenges to access and prevention. So it is fitting that women’s health is one of the RN to BSN elective courses. It explores the history of women’s health as well as the state of the practice today.
Aging and the Older Adult
According to the World Health Organization, the “pace of population ageing is much faster than in the past,” and by 2050, the population of those over 60 years old will almost double, from 12. As the population ages and more Baby Boomers need healthcare services, it is important that nurses have training and experience in the care of older adults. One course titled Aging and the Older Adult is an ideal upper-level elective for nurses planning to work in clinics, hospitals, nursing homes or home health.
Forensic Nursing
“Forensic nurses provide specialized care for patients who are experiencing acute and long-term health consequences associated with victimization or violence,” according to the International Association of Forensic Nurses. They also offer consultation and testimony in court for civil or criminal cases. The Forensic Nursing course at A-State introduces all the specialized skills and training involved in this important role in healthcare.
The elective courses offered through the online RN to BSN program round out the advanced training nurses receive in order to further their careers and prepare them for the challenges of modern healthcare.
Learn more about the A-State online RN to BSN program.