HSM4584

The Minnesota Board of Examiners for Nursing Home Administrators (BENHA) requires applicants for initial licensure (and those who are licensed in other states but do not meet Minnesota's regulatory requirements for experience or certification) to complete accredited post-secondary academic courses covering key competencies. This course covers the medical and health needs of nursing facility residents and persons living in community-based settings. Topics include: How anatomic and physiologic changes associated with the aging process affect disease processes and clinical needs. Impact and management of common syndromes associated with aging, including vision/hearing impairment, nutrition/malnutrition, and balance and mobility impairment. Prevention and management of common conditions such as pressure ulcers and delirium. Common psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders such as dementias (including Alzheimer's), depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders, and alcohol and drug abuse. Advance care planning and the role of palliative care and end-of-life care. Basic medical and pharmacological terminology. Innovative medical trends and emergent technologies used in long-term care settings.

Prerequisite: Basic knowledge of the long-term care field. Students who do not have this knowledge are encouraged to meet with the instructor to discuss strategies for obtaining it prior to registering for this course.