College of Nursing and Health Sciences

MSN- Family Nurse Practitioner

Scientific Foundation

• Can critically analyze existing data and evidence for improving advanced nursing practice and patient care.
• Can integrate knowledge from the humanities and sciences in providing primary care to clients across the lifespan.
• Can use and translate current research and other forms of knowledge to improve patient care.

Leadership

• Can create interdisciplinary and interprofessional collaboration with multiple stakeholders (clients, communities) in providing primary care.
• Can communicate clearly and effectively both in oral and written formats.

Quality Competencies

• Can evaluate how organizational structures, care processes, financing, marketing and policy decisions impact the quality of care provided to clients across the lifespan.
• Understands the importance of life-long learning as a health care provider in primary care.

Practice Inquiry

• Trained for graduate-level investigative skills to conduct clinical investigations in the practice settings to improve patient outcomes.

Technological and Information Literacy

• Can integrate appropriate technologies such as use of appropriate applications in the management of acute and chronic conditions across the lifespan.
• Trained in the use of electronic medical records and the proper use of ICD-10 and CPT coding in making appropriate insurance claims.

Policy Competencies

• Advocates for ethical policies that promote access, equity, quality and affordability of care.

Health Care Delivery

• Collaborates with interdisciplinary team in the planning for transitions across the continuum of care.

Ethics

• Apply ethical principles in finding sound solutions pertaining to complex issues in patient care.

Independent Practice

• Functions as an independent family nurse practitioner within the scope of practice designated by the Texas Board of Nursing.
• Provides a full spectrum of health care services including health promotion, disease prevention, health protection, anticipatory guidance, counseling, disease management, palliative and end-of-life care.

MSN- Nursing Administration

Communication and Relationship Building

• Develop oral and written presentation skills for a diverse audience on matters pertaining to nursing, health care, and organizational issues.
• Can apply learned principles on conflict management and resolution at the healthcare workplace.

Knowledge of the healthcare environment

• Understands that written organization clinical policies and processes and procedures are reviewed and updated in accordance with evidence-based practice.
• Understands the importance of ensuring compliance with regulatory agencies such as Joint Commission, CMS and state's board of nursing.

Leadership

• Can critically analyze organizational issues after review of evidence.

Business Skills

• Can articulate business models of health care organizations and fundamental concepts of economics.
• Can educate patient care team members on financial implications of patient care decisions.
• Can manage financial resources by developing business plans.