Nursing Program Philosophy

The Nursing Program is based on the belief that each human being is unique within a culturally diverse community. We support the World Health Organization's statement that health is a state of physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. We support all persons in their right to holistic health, self-determination, dignity, optimal functioning, and competent care. We recognize patients' right to maintain their beliefs, values, and cultural differences and exercise primary responsibility for their own health care decisions.

We believe nursing is a profession guided by science, theory, a code of ethics, and the art of caring and comfort to treat human responses to health and illness.

The nursing theory framework is an adaptation of Dorothea Orem's Self-Care Deficit Nursing Theory.

Nursing provides care through health promotion, illness prevention, and restorative activities. Through a variety of clinical experiences, current technology and techniques are emphasized to promote quality and cost effective health care.

The nursing faculty endorses the statement that the practice of a graduate from an associate degree nursing program is characterized by critical thinking, clinical competence, accountability, and a commitment to the value of caring. Orem's Theory and the nursing process are used to problem solve so that nursing care can be managed and delivered in an organized manner. We believe that the Associate Degree Nursing graduate is prepared to function primarily in a well-defined role in a variety of settings.

We believe that students have the primary responsibility for learning. Learning is an active process facilitated by faculty. We are committed to helping students realize their growth potential and reach their career goal for entry into practice. We hold that nursing education is an ongoing process that prepares individuals to embrace a personal ethic of community responsibility and service. We actively support continued education and professional growth for our graduates.