Nursing
Nursing is a dynamic and rewarding profession that emphasizes responsibility, integrity, compassion, and lifelong learning. Nurses provide essential care to individuals, families, and communities across a variety of healthcare settings. As healthcare professionals, nurses are dedicated to improving the quality of care and promoting the well-being of others.
Nursing offers a wide range of career opportunities, and the demand for qualified nurses is expected to remain strong for years to come. Nursing is both an art and a science—“a heart and a mind.” At its core is a fundamental respect for human dignity and responsiveness to patient needs, supported by rigorous academic and clinical preparation (American Nurses Association [ANA], 2022).
College of the Desert offers multiple nursing pathways designed to support a variety of educational and career goals. Programs include associate degrees in Registered Nursing (RN), Vocational Nursing (VN), and the LVN-to-RN Bridge pathway, as well as a certificate in Vocational Nursing (VN). The Vocational Nursing program prepares students for licensure as Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs). The department also offers Nurse Assistant (NA/CNA) and Home Health Aide (HHA) courses.
Nursing programs are impacted and subject to state and regulatory approval requirements. The Nurse Assistant (NA/CNA) and Home Health Aide (HHA) courses are locally approved and, in accordance with state regulations, are not notated on the student’s academic transcript.
Admissions and Enrollment
Admission to any Nursing Program, including RN, LVN, CNA, and HHA, is a separate process from admission to the College. Students must submit a separate Nursing Program application and be formally accepted into the program to enroll in nursing program courses. Students should consult the Nursing webpage under Academic Programs on the College of the Desert website for program-specific policies, procedures, and admission requirements. For additional information, please call 760.773.2578.
To apply for licensure/certification (RN, LVN, CNA) disclosure of your Social Security number or ITIN is mandatory on the California Application for Licensure by Examination form.
College policy requires students enrolled in nursing programs with clinical components to maintain malpractice liability insurance and purchase required nursing practice materials and kits. Applicable fees are paid at the time of registration.
All courses required for Nursing programs must be completed with a grade of “C” or better (2.0). In addition, all Nursing courses require a minimum score of 75% to successfully meet course requirements.
College of the Desert is designated as a continuing education provider by the Board of Registered Nursing. The provider number is 00284.
Hospital Requirements
Affiliation agreements with clinical facilities require College of the Desert Nursing Program students to meet specific requirements before participating in clinical rotations. Requirements may include, but are not limited to, COVID-19 vaccination and booster compliance, completion of a recent physical examination, required immunizations or titers, negative tuberculosis (TB) status, criminal background clearance, negative drug screening, and current American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS) CPR certification. Clinical facility requirements are subject to change at any time. Students must provide documentation demonstrating compliance with all requirements prior to the start of the term. Submission deadlines are established by the department approximately 30–90 days before the beginning of the term. Students who do not meet or submit required documentation by the stated deadlines may be dropped from the course or program.
Policies and procedures related to these requirements are outlined in the Nursing Programs Student Handbook, available on the Nursing webpage. Students are also required to provide valid identification, including a Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Students are responsible for all costs associated with program and clinical requirements. Information regarding average program costs is available on the Nursing webpage.
ADA Technical Standards
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), students must be able to perform the essential functions of the Nursing Program, with or without reasonable accommodation. The Department of Nursing has established the following Technical Standards:
- Critical Thinking — Ability to apply logical reasoning, analyze information, and make sound clinical judgments
- Written Communication — Ability to communicate effectively in written documentation and reporting
- Verbal Communication — Ability to communicate effectively with patients, families, faculty, and healthcare team members
- Interpersonal Skills — Ability to establish and maintain professional and effective relationships with others
- Professionalism and Emotional Stability — Ability to manage stress, adapt to changing environments, and maintain professional behavior
- Hearing — Auditory ability sufficient to assess and respond to patient and environmental needs
- Visual Ability — Visual acuity necessary for observation, assessment, and safe patient care
- Tactile Ability — Tactile sensitivity necessary for physical assessment and clinical interventions
- Mobility — Physical ability to move safely within patient care environments and perform required procedures
- Motor Skills — Fine and gross motor abilities necessary to provide safe and effective patient care
- Exposure to Chemicals and Specimens — Ability to safely work with, handle, and dispose of hazardous materials and infectious substances in accordance with established protocols
Students enrolled in nursing courses with clinical components are subject to additional guidelines designed to protect patient safety and support professional standards of practice. A student may be required to withdraw from the program for academic reasons or for conduct that is inconsistent with program or professional standards, including but not limited to substance abuse, inappropriate social or emotional behavior, or documented acts of dishonesty.
Faculty reserve the right to remove a student from the clinical setting if, in the faculty member’s professional judgment, the student’s actions place a patient, staff member, or others at risk of physical or emotional harm. Additional information is available in the Nursing Programs Student Handbook on the Nursing webpage.
Licensure/Certification Eligibility
Graduates of the RN or LVN program are eligible to apply to take the National Council Licensing Examinations (NCLEX) for licensure as a nurse. Applicants must submit Live Scan fingerprints. According to California Business and Professions Code (Licensee: Division 1.5. Denial, Suspension, and Revocation of Licenses; Chapter 2. Denial of Licenses), Section 480), “a board may deny a license regulated by this code on the grounds that the applicant has been convicted of a crime or has been subject to a formal discipline…” The Boards investigate convictions by obtaining information on the underlying facts of the case, dates, and disposition of the case, and subsequent rehabilitation. Requirements regarding disclosure of violations vary by the state board. We highly recommend students with past convictions, meet with the nursing Counselor to discuss policies, procedures, and recommendations regarding disclosure. Questions pertaining to legal limitations of licensure for such convictions should be addressed by the student to the appropriate Board.
Although students may pass a background check and drug screen for entry into clinical facilities, this does not guarantee students will pass a background check for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) or future employment. Any convictions (expunged or dismissed) can be a reason to deny or delay licensure by the state boards.
Students submitting initial applications to the Department of Health Services for the CNA course will need to complete information disclosing any past criminal record. Electronically transmitted fingerprinting (LiveScan) is required for this course. If a history exists that has not been cleared with the California Department of Public Health, the student will not be able to continue in the class which in turn negates licensure.
Licensed Vocational Nursing (LVN)/Vocational Nursing
The Vocational Nursing Program at College of the Desert is approved by the California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT). Approval by the BVNPT confirms that the program meets the educational standards required for vocational nursing education in the State of California.
Optional addition if you want to include Board contact information:
California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT)
2535 Capitol Oaks Drive, Suite 205
Sacramento, CA 95833
(916) 263-7800
BVNPT Approved Programs
Successful completion of the Vocational Nursing Program qualifies graduates to apply for licensure by examination through the California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT). Completion of the program does not guarantee licensure. Licensure is granted solely at the discretion of the BVNPT upon successful completion of all applicable requirements, including passage of the NCLEX-PN examination.
VN Program Application Process
Application to the Vocational Nursing program is separate from application to the College. An application form is available during specific application periods and can be obtained from the Nursing webpage.
Enrollment in the Vocational Nursing program is limited. Admission to the Vocational Nursing Program is competitive and subject to additional eligibility requirements beyond general college admission. Applicants must meet prerequisite and program eligibility requirements prior to application. Detailed information regarding the Vocational Nursing program is available on the Vocational Nursing Program webpage.
The program is three semesters long, commencing each fall. It is a limited enrollment program.
Students interested in the VN Program should:
- Visit the Nursing webpage for detailed information.
- Attend an informational session.
- Meet with a nursing counselor.
Registered Nursing (RN)/Associate Degree in Nursing
The Associate Degree Nursing Program at College of the Desert is approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN). Approval by the BRN confirms that the program meets the educational standards required for registered nursing education in the State of California.
California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN)
P.O. Box 944210
Sacramento, CA 94244-2100
(916) 322-3350
California Board of Registered Nursing
The Associate Degree Nursing Program at College of the Desert located in Palm Desert, California is accredited by the:
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400
Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 975-5000
Successful completion of the Associate Degree Nursing Program qualifies graduates to apply for licensure by examination through the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN). Completion of the program does not guarantee licensure. Licensure is granted solely at the discretion of the BRN upon successful completion of all applicable requirements, including passage of the NCLEX-RN examination.
Graduation from the Associate Degree Nursing Program does not guarantee licensure.
RN Program Application Process
Application to the Registered Nursing program is separate from application to the College. An application form is available during specific application periods and can be obtained from the Nursing webpage.
Enrollment in the Registered Nursing program is limited. Admission to the Registered Nursing Program is competitive and subject to additional eligibility requirements beyond general college admission. Applicants must meet prerequisite and program eligibility requirements prior to application. Detailed information regarding the Registered Nursing program is available on the Registered Nursing Program webpage.
The program is three semesters long, commencing each fall. It is a limited enrollment program.
Students interested in the RN Program should:
- Visit the Nursing webpage for detailed information.
- Attend an informational session.
- Meet with a nursing counselor.
Nursing Program Advanced Placement Options
Prospective students who have had prior education in nursing or other health-related areas may request consideration for entry into the nursing program with advanced placement. Applicants would include licensed Vocational/Practical Nurses and International Registered Nurses, Veterans, and transfer students from Board approved nursing programs. Specific information regarding the advanced placement procedure is available through the Nursing website. All advanced placement applicants are accepted to the program on a space-available basis.
LVN to RN Transition Program
The LVN to RN Program is designed for currently practicing LVNs. The program allows advanced placement in the RN program. Placement is based on individual assessment of previous learning credits and qualifications. Admission to the LVN to RN Transition Program is a separate process from admission to the College. Students must submit a separate Nursing Program application and be formally accepted into the program to enroll in nursing courses. Information on all advanced placement options including the LVN to RN Transition Program are available through the Nursing Advanced Placement website.
Students interested in the LVN to RN Transition Program should:
- Visit the Nursing webpage for detailed information.
- Attend an informational session.
- Meet with a nursing counselor.
Transfer Student
A transfer student is defined as a student who has previously enrolled in a Board of Registered Nursing (BRN)-approved registered nursing program and is seeking to continue nursing education at College of the Desert. Students with prior nursing education may request transfer into the program; however, all transfer requests are evaluated on an individual basis and accepted on a space-available basis.
Students interested in transfer should visit the Nursing webpage and schedule an appointment with the Nursing Counselor to determine eligibility. Transfer applicants must meet the same admission and enrollment requirements as all students entering the Nursing Program. In addition, general education coursework must align with the Nursing Program requirements for the semester into which the student is requesting placement.
Transfer applicants must provide a letter from the previous Director or Dean of Nursing verifying that the student was in good standing and had no safety violations while enrolled in the prior nursing program. A minimum of 12 units must be completed at College of the Desert to qualify for graduation from the College.
Veterans
Military-trained healthcare personnel have the opportunity to apply for advanced placement in the nursing program. Detailed information is available on the Nursing webpage.
International RN
For Registered Nurses from outside the USA needing to fulfill California Board of Registered Nursing requirements. Detailed information is available on the Nursing webpage.
LVN to RN (30-Unit Option)
Applicants who are currently licensed Vocational Nurses in California and desire to complete courses required for RN licensure may select the 30-Unit Option. This is a non-degree option.
Upon successful completion of this program of study, the student may apply to take the NCLEX-RN exam for licensure. The student will be licensed as a non-degree candidate. This option is recognized in California and there is no restriction to practice. However, states other than California may not recognize this educational track as preparation for licensure. Non-degree options are extremely limiting in regards to future employment and advancement. Non-degree nurses cannot obtain any further nursing degrees such as Bachelors or Masters degree and therefore are very limited in employment.
Application for 30-Unit Option: Schedule appointment with the Nursing Counselor. Space for 30-unit option applicants are last on the prioritization list for seat availability.
All advanced placement students will be accepted on a space-available basis. Detailed information is available on the Nursing webpage.
Advisors
Nursing Counselor
Students seeking advising should see the Nursing Counselor. Appointments for the Nursing Counselors can be obtained by calling the Nursing department at 760.773.2578.
Ana Stockwell
Astockwell@collegeofthedesert.edu
760.776.7415
Faculty
Bryan Batres
Registered Nursing, Nursing Assistant
brbatres@collegeofthedesert.edu
760.773.2533
Monica Camargo
Registered Nursing, Vocational Nursing
mcamargo@collegeofthedesert.edu
760.776.7343
Talon Hart
Registered Nursing
tahart@collegeofthedesert.edu
x7058
Mitzy Hernandez
Vocational Nursing
mhernandez@collegeofthedesert.edu
x7054
Mary Suarez
Registered Nursing
mrsuarez@collegeofthedesert.edu
760.776.7215
Michelle Smith
Registered Nursing
mismith@collegeofthedesert.edu
760.776.7246
Kristani Stewart
Registered Nursing
krstewart@collegeofthedesert.edu
760.776.7455
Amber McCartney
Registered Nursing
amccartney@collegeofthedesert.edu
x1386
Associate Degrees (AA/AS)
Certificate of Achievement
Local Certificates
(Locally approved certificates. Not notated on the student's transcript in accordance with State regulations.)
Vocational Nursing Program Outcome Behaviors
Using the nursing process, the graduate demonstrates the following competencies:
- Assesses basic physical, emotional, spiritual, and socio-cultural needs of clients using a variety of resources
- Contributes to the development of nursing care plans, establishing priorities, and revising as necessary
- Provides safe, competent nursing care using the accepted standard of practice and making appropriate referrals
- Evaluates care to determine priorities, goals, and effectiveness of care
- Uses effective communication skills in the nursing role, in therapeutic relationships with clients and families, and in collaboration with members of the health team
- Assumes responsibility and accountability for managing one’s own actions and care delegated to those with lesser preparation
- Practices within the scope of practice of the licensed Vocational nurse • Adheres to the nursing Code of Ethics
- Seeks opportunity for continued professional growth and performance • Advocates for health care consumers through political, economic, and societal activities
Registered Nursing End of Program Student Learning Outcomes (EPSLO)
- Demonstrates accountability for the delivery of nursing care while influencing the behavior of others to achieve shared goals.
- Demonstrate the Professional Identity of Nursing (PIN)
- Assimilate clinical judgment, rooted in evidence-based practice, to provide nursing care at an entry-level.
- Design client-centered care for individuals that recognizes the client as a full partner with individual preferences and beliefs.
- Integrates communication principles to foster a respectful environment that supports shared decision-making in the efforts of improving client’s optimal wellness.
- Competently manages all aspects of safety for clients through system effectiveness, individual performance, and quality improvement to minimize risk of harm to clients.
Nursing (N)
N 004 Concepts of Nursing Practice-Acute Complex Alterations in Health Units: 9.5
In this course students gain knowledge and experience with clients whose optimum level of wellness is altered by acute and complex conditions. Students will gain experience as direct care providers in the acute/critical/emergent and home health care settings utilizing concepts of care management. A materials fee of $20.00 - $50.00 is required for this course to cover lab learning activities.
Lecture Hours: 81 Lab Hours: 270 Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: N 003A.
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CalGETC: None
N 057 Transition to Registered Nursing Units: 2.5
This course is designed for licensed vocational nurses (LVN) seeking to transition into the role of a registered nurse (RN). It provides theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for success in the second year of the Associate Degree Nurse (ADN) program. Students will gain a deeper understanding of nursing concepts and refine their clinical skills through both theoretical and hands-on-laboratory experiences. This course is required for application to the LVN to RN program and must occur within 2 years of successful completion of the course. Active and unencumbered California licensure as a LVN/LPN, and current intravenous therapy/blood withdrawal certification required. A materials fee of $90.00-$135.00 is required.
Lecture Hours: 27 Lab Hours: 54 Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: BI 013, BI 014, BI 015, ENGL C1000 or ENGL C1000E or college-level composition or equivalent.
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: None Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CalGETC: None
Nursing Assistant (NNA)
NNA 364 Nursing Assistant Units: 0
This course includes basic nursing principles used in the care of clients in long-term care facilities. The content addresses the basic needs of clients; concepts of ethics and confidentiality; techniques of communication; reporting and recording of observations and basic assessments; performance of special treatments, procedures and skills required for client care. Successful completion of the course results in eligibility to take the state-approved test that leads to certification as a nursing assistant.
Noncredit Hours: 234 Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: None Degree Applicable: NONC
COD GE: None CalGETC: None
Registered Nursing (NRN)
NRN 110 Foundations of Nursing Practice Units: 7
This Foundational course introduces students to the organizing framework of the program and to basic concepts of the nursing process. Optimum wellness concepts, and promoting, maintaining, or restoring health for the client are presented in the classroom. Concepts of professionalism, evidenced-based practice, holistic client-centered care, communication, and safety are integrated throughout the course. A course material fee is required for this course and will range in cost between $45-$90. Students entering into the advanced placement option requesting credit for prior learning will receive "credit" as a grade for this course. Limitation on enrollment: Acceptance into the registered nursing program.
Lecture Hours: 63 Lab Hours: 189 Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: BI 013 BI 014 BI 015 ENGL C1000 or ENGL C1000E or college-level composition or equivalent.
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: Acceptance to the Registered Nursing Program
Transfer Status: None Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CalGETC: None
NRN 120 Concepts of Nursing: Commonly Occurring Alterations Units: 7
This course focuses on promoting, maintaining, and/or restoring the health of adult clients experiencing commonly occurring alterations in health. Previously learned nursing principles will be used as building blocks to plan holistic care and promote optimal wellness. Program concepts of professionalism, evidenced-based practice, holistic client-centered care, communication, and safety are integrated throughout the course. A course material fee range of $175-$275 covers the lab kit. Students entering into the advanced placement option requesting credit for prior learning will receive "credit" as a grade for this course.
Lecture Hours: 63 Lab Hours: 189 Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: NRN 110.
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: Acceptance to the Registered Nursing Program
Transfer Status: None Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CalGETC: None
NRN 130 Concepts of Nursing: Mental Health Units: 2
This course focuses on promoting, maintaining, or restoring the health of clients with alterations in mental health. Previously learned nursing principles will be used as building blocks to plan care for the needs of clients. Program concepts of professionalism, evidenced-based practice, holistic client-centered care, communication, and safety are integrated throughout the course. Students are required to travel to various clinical sites. Students entering into the advanced placement option requesting credit for prior learning will receive "credit" as a grade for this course. Limitation on enrollment: Acceptance into the registered nursing program.
Lecture Hours: 18 Lab Hours: 54 Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: Acceptance to the Registered Nursing Program
Transfer Status: None Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CalGETC: None
NRN 140 Concepts of Nursing: Gerontology Units: 2
This course focuses on promoting, maintaining, or restoring the health of older adult clients. Previously learned nursing principles will be used as building blocks to plan care for the needs of clients. Program concepts of professionalism, evidenced-based practice, holistic client-centered care, communication, and safety are integrated throughout the course. Students are required to travel to various clinical sites. Students entering into the advanced placement option requesting credit for prior learning will receive "credit" as a grade for this course. Limitation on enrollment: Acceptance into the registered nursing program.
Lecture Hours: 18 Lab Hours: 54 Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: Acceptance to the Registered Nursing Program
Transfer Status: None Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CalGETC: None
NRN 210 Chronic Alterations in Health Units: 7
This course focuses on promoting, maintaining, or restoring health of adult clients with chronic alterations in health. Previously learned nursing principles will be used as building blocks to plan care for the needs of clients. Program concepts of professionalism, evidenced-based practice, holistic client-centered care, communication, and safety are integrated throughout the course. This course includes components for theory, clinical, and lab. A course materials fee range of $150-$250 covers a lab kit. Students will be required to visit various clinical sites. Students requesting credit for prior learning will receive "credit" as a grade for this course. Limitation on Enrollment: Acceptance into the Registered Nursing Program.
Lecture Hours: 63 Lab Hours: 189 Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: NRN 120.
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: Acceptance to the Registered Nursing Program
Transfer Status: None Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CalGETC: None
NRN 220 Acute Complex Alterations in Health Units: 6.5
This course focuses on promoting, maintaining, or restoring the health of adult clients with acute and complex alterations in health. Previously learned nursing principles will be used as building blocks to plan care for the needs of clients. Program concepts of professionalism, evidence-based practice, holistic client-centered care, communication, and safety are integrated throughout the course. This course includes components for theory, clinical, and lab. A course materials fee range of $10-$75 covers a lab kit. Students will be required to visit various clinical sites. Students requesting credit for prior learning will receive "credit" as a grade for this course. Limitation on Enrollment: Acceptance into the Registered Nursing Program.
Lecture Hours: 54 Lab Hours: 189 Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: NRN 210.
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: Acceptance to the Registered Nursing Program
Transfer Status: None Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CalGETC: None
NRN 230 Pediatric Health and Wellness Units: 2
This course focuses on promoting, maintaining, and restoring health of the growing child. Emphasis is on the pediatric client whose optimum level of wellness is altered by common conditions. Program concepts of professionalism, evidenced-based practice, holistic patient-centered care, communication, and safety are integrated throughout this course. Students are required to travel to various clinical sites. Students entering into the advanced placement option requesting credit for prior learning will receive "credit" as a grade for this course. Limitation on enrollment: Acceptance into the registered nursing program.
Lecture Hours: 18 Lab Hours: 54 Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: Acceptance to the Registered Nursing Program
Transfer Status: None Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CalGETC: None
NRN 240 Health & Wellness in Growing Families Units: 2
This course focuses on promotion, maintaining, and restoring health of growing families. Emphasis is on the woman during the antepartum, intrapartum, postpartum phases of pregnancy, as well as newborn nursing care. Program concepts of professionalism, evidenced-based practice, holistic patient-centered care, communication, and safety are integrated throughout this course. Students are required to travel to various clinical sites. Students entering into the advanced placement option requesting credit for prior learning will receive "credit" as a grade for this course. Limitation on enrollment: Acceptance into the registered nursing program. Acceptance into the registered nursing program. Traditional pathway nursing students must be in the second year of courses.
Lecture Hours: 18 Lab Hours: 54 Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: Acceptance to the Registered Nursing Program
Transfer Status: None Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CalGETC: None
NRN 250 Transition to Practice Units: 0.5
This course focuses on the role transition from Student Nurse to Professional Nurse. Activities will prepare students to apply for, interview for, and begin employment as new graduate nurses. The program concept of professionalism is the primary emphasis of this course. Limitation on enrollment: Concurrent enrollment and acceptance into the registered nursing program.
Lecture Hours: 9 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: NRN 220 or concurrent enrollment.
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: Acceptance to the Registered Nursing Program
Transfer Status: None Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CalGETC: None
Vocational Nursing (NVN)
NVN 010 Fundamentals for the Vocational Nurse Units: 16
This foundational course introduces students to the core principles of vocational nursing, including basic nursing care, communication skills, and clinical reasoning. Emphasis is placed on holistic client-centered care, communication, professionalism, safety, and evidence-based practice. Students will learn fundamental nursing skills and apply theoretical knowledge in laboratory and clinical settings, developing essential psychomotor skills and beginning clinical reasoning. A materials fee of $125.00-$150.00 is required for this course. Limitation on Enrollment: Acceptance to the Vocational Nursing Program.
Lecture Hours: 162 Lab Hours: 378 Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: HS-013 HS-062 HS-067 PSYC-C1000.
Advisory: ENGL-C1000 or ENGL-C1000E or college-level,composition or equivalent.
Limitation on enrollment: Acceptance into the registered nursing program
Transfer Status: None Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CalGETC: None
NVN 020 Care of the Client Experiencing Medical- Surgical Alterations Units: 16
This course builds on foundational nursing skills, focusing on medical-surgical nursing care for adult patients. Students will also explore leadership, supervision of the vocational nurse, and role transition. Emphasis is placed on holistic client-centered care, communication, professionalism, safety, and evidence-based practice. Students will apply theoretical knowledge through hands-on practice in clinical settings, refining their nursing skills and gaining confidence in providing client-centered care. Prerequisite: NVN-010. Limitation on Enrollment: Acceptance into the Vocational Nursing Program.
Lecture Hours: 162 Lab Hours: 378 Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: NVN 010.
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: Acceptance into the registered nursing program
Transfer Status: None Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CalGETC: None
NVN 030 Vocational Nursing Care of Clients in Special Populations Units: 7.5
This course focuses on nursing care for specialized populations, including obstetric, pediatric, and mental health patients. Students will learn essential skills to provide safe, patient-centered care across these diverse groups, with an emphasis on health promotion, developmental milestones, and managing mental health conditions. Emphasis is placed on holistic client-centered care, communication, professionalism, safety, and evidence-based practice. Clinical practice will reinforce theoretical knowledge, preparing students to address the unique needs of these populations and support holistic care throughout the lifespan. Prerequisite: NVN-020. Limitation on Enrollment: Acceptance to the Vocational Nursing Program
Lecture Hours: 72 Lab Hours: 198 Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: NVN-020.
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: Acceptance into the registered nursing program
Transfer Status: None Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CalGETC: None
