NR 509 - Advanced Physical Assessment

The NR 509 Advanced Physical Assessment course is a 3-credit class (2.5 theory, 0.5 lab) designed to deepen students’ skills in health assessment tailored for advanced practice nursing. Prerequisites include NR503 and NR507. The course covers comprehensive history-taking and physical examination techniques across the lifespan, including psychiatric-mental health assessments. It includes 25 lab hours, with an 11-hour Health Assessment Performance Evaluation conducted on the Chamberlain campus, preceded by 14 hours of required practice.

Students use key textbooks such as Jarvis’s Physical Examination & Health Assessment and Swartz’s Textbook of Physical Diagnosis. The course emphasizes culturally competent, evidence-based practice, effective communication, and ethical-legal principles. Weekly topics range from HEENT and integumentary assessment to special populations and completion of the 3P exam.

Grading is based on discussions, exams, reflections, and clinical performance, with a minimum passing grade of 76%. Active participation and timely submission of assignments are required, and late work incurs penalties. The course prepares students for advanced nursing roles through rigorous assessment and professional development.