Instructor: Carlos Quintero, ADN, RN

Email: quinterocj@lamarpa.edu

Phone: 409-984-6593

Office Hours: As posted and by appointment, Health & Science Building (HSB) Office #114

Additional Contact Information: Allied Health Secretary-Donna Wolfe (409)984-6356 or 1-800-477-5872 Office: HSB Office #103

Continuation of Nursing in Health and Illness II. Further study of medical-surgical health problems of the patient including concepts such as mental illness and clinical judgement model. Incorporates knowledge necessary to make the transition from student to graduate vocational nurse.

Donnelly-Moreno, Loretta A. Timby’s Fundamental Nursing Skills and Concepts. 13th ed., Wolters Kluwer, 2022. ISBN: 978-1-9752-2077-8

Donnelly-Moreno, Loretta A., and Brigette Mosely. Timby’s Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing. 14th ed., Wolters Kluwer, 2026. ISBN: 978-1-9752-6683-7

LIPPINCOTT'S Course Point for Donnelly-Moreno: Timby’s Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing, Fourteenth Edition VNSG 2410 Course ID: 23WR5ME7EX  

Kincheloe, Cynthia A. Introductory Mental Health Nursing. 5th ed., Wolters Kluwer, 2022. ISBN: 978-1-9752-1124-0

Williams, Linda, Hopper, Paula, (2023). Study Guide for Understanding Medical-Surgical Nursing (7th ed.) Philadelphia: F.A. Davis ISBN: 978-1-7196-4459-4

Zerwekh, JoAnn (2021) Illustrated NCLEX-PN Exam- Study Guide (11th Edition) Elsevier ISBN: 978-0-3237-6002-7

Ogden, S.J. & Fluharty, L.K. (2019). Calculation of Drug Dosages (13th ed.). St. Louis: Elsevier ISBN: 978032382622-8

Ford, Susan M. (2022) Roach’s Introductory Clinical Pharmacology w/ access (12th ed.) Lippincott: ISBN: 9781975163730 

Ford, Susan M. (2022) Roach’s Introductory Clinical Pharmacology (12th ed.) Study Guide Lippincott: ISBN: 9781975163761 

HESI Case study testing packet must be purchased and paid for each semester.

Textbook Purchasing Statement: A student attending Lamar State College Port Arthur is not under any obligation to purchase a textbook from the college-affiliated bookstore. The same textbook may also be available from an independent retailer, including an online retailer.

Students are also required to pay for HURST two day- in class- review. This is a MANDITORY review; regardless of whether it was taken in a previous semester.

Students are required to pay for Texas Board of Nursing Fees and Pearson View Fees promptly in order to graduate. 

Any Computer program must be accessed using your LSCPA email unless otherwise instructed. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure they are enrolled in the proper courses for Course Point, Pass Point, Evolve HESI, Lippincott DocuCare, and VSims. Instructors will not allow submissions to be turned in from a previous course.

NOTE: We will be utilizing the access codes from the new books, purchasing an older version may result in the student being unsuccessful in computer assignments.

VNSG-1204 Foundations of Nursing

VNSG 1227 Essentials of Medication Administration

VNSG 1231 Pharmacology

VNSG-1234 Pediatrics

VNSG-1261 Clinical - Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training

VNSG-1400 Nursing in Health and Illness I

VNSG-1409 Nursing in Health and Illness II

VNSG-1462 Clinical-Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training

Co-requisite: VNSG-1463 Clinical - Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training

To graduate from the VN program, it is required that you meet all degree plan requirements prior to graduation. Students must have a minimum grade of C or better in every course that applies to the Vocational Nursing Certificate plan to graduate. 

In accordance with the mission of LSC-PA, VNSG 2410 Nursing in Health and Illness III assists the student to develop the particular skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary for success as a vocational nurse. Upon successful completion of the course, the student should be able to:

1. Compare and contrast normal physiology of body systems to pathologic variations in the patient with common medical-surgical health problems. (PSLO 2) Measured by: reading-based discussions; exams based on readings; clinical case studies

2. Compare and contrast diagnostic evaluation and treatment of the patient with common medical-surgical health problems. (PSLO 2) Measured by: reading-based discussions; exams; clinical case studies

3. Incorporate nutrition, drug therapy, and nursing interventions in safely implementing plans of care to meet the needs of the patient experiencing common medical-surgical health problems. (PSLO 1; PSLO 2; PSLO 3) Measured by: reading-based scenarios; care plan activities; case studies; case studies; clinical simulations

4. Utilize the nursing process in safely caring for the patient with common medical-surgical health problems. (PSLO 2; PSLO 4) Measured by: care plan activities; class and clinical discussion; case studies based on readings

5. Identify mental illness, treatment of common abnormal patterns of behavior, and related nursing interventions. (PSLO 3) Measured by: exams based on readings; class discussions; clinical interactions; case studies

6. Demonstrate competency in medication administration and dosage calculations. (PSLO 1; PSLO 3) Measured by: medication competency exam; observed medication administration in skills lab and clinical; discussions

7. Describe the underlying principles of selected nursing skills using principles of safety and asepsis. (PSLO 1; PSLO 3) Measured by: discussions; based on readings; skills checkoffs; clinical simulations; clinical rotation interactions

8. Demonstrate satisfactory performance of selected nursing skills using evidenced-based principles of safety and asepsis. (PSLO 1; PSLO 3; PSLO 4) Measured by: skills checkoffs; clinical simulations; clinical rotation interactions; discussions and clinical application of current practice in nursing based on online and in-class readings

9. Utilize learned skills and knowledge for transition from student to graduate vocational nurse. (PSLO 1; PSLO 2; PSLO 3; PSLO 4) Measured by: standardized and unit exams based on readings and discussions; clinical skills checkoffs in lab and clinical setting; patient, family and healthcare team interactions; clinical observations and evaluations; case studies

10. Demonstrate an understanding of the legal, ethical, and professional responsibilities inherent in the role of the vocational nurse. (PSLO 1; PSLO 3; PSLO 4) Measured by: exams over comprehension of nurse practice act, current literature and class discussions; interactions in clinical setting

11. Identify priorities of care according to the patient’s condition. (PSLO 1; PSLO 2; PSLO 3; PSLO 4) Measured by: class and clinical case study discussions; prioritization exercises and exam objectives; care plan activities; simulations

Upon completion of the Vocational Nursing Program graduates will, under the supervision of a professional licensed nurse and/or licensed physician, function in non-complex settings and should be able to:

PSLO 1. Functions within the Scope of Practice for a Vocational Nurse.

PSLO 2. Demonstrates safe, direct patient care with individuals who have predictable health care needs.

PSLO 3. Exhibits professional nursing behaviors.

PSLO 4. Cooperates with members of the interdisciplinary health care team to provide evidence-based care.

Week 1: Review VNSG-2410 Syllabus/Addendum, VNSG 2410-Hematopoietic and Lymphatic Lecture/Central Line Skill Demo, BON Information/Application and NCLEX-PN Information/Paperwork 

Week 2: VNSG-2410 Respiratory Lecture/Trach Care and Suction Skills Demo, VNSG-2410 Psychotic/PD/Cognitive Disorders Lecture  

Lippincott CoursePoint Assignments Due Date: Sunday 09/06/26 @ 1130 PM

Week 3: VNSG-2410/1463 Open Lab, VNSG-2410 Resume Workshop, VNSG-2410 Lecture/Lab, VNSG-2410 Exam #1

Week 4: VNSG-2410/1463 Open Lab, VNSG-2410 Anger, Violence, Substance Abuse, Eating Disorders Lecture 

Week 5: VNSG-2410 Disaster/Shock Lecture, VNSG-2410 Jurisprudence/TPAPN Lecture, VNSG-2410/1463 Open Lab

Week 6: VNSG-2410 Cardiac #1 & #2 Lecture, VNSG-2410 Lecture/Lab  

Lippincott CoursePoint Assignments Due Date: Sunday 10/04/26 @ 1130 PM

Week 7:  VNSG-2410 Lecture/Lab, VNSG-2410 Exam #2, VNSG-2410 Lecture/Lab

Week 8:  VNSG-2410 Neuro #1 & #2 Lecture 

Week 9: VNSG-2410 Mental Health Pre-work, VNSG-2410 Anxiety/Mood Disorder/Somatic Disorders/Dissociative Disorders Lecture, VNSG-2410 Lecture/Lab

Week 10: VNSG-2410 Mental Health First Aid Class, VNSG-2410 Lecture/Lab

Lippincott CoursePoint Assignments Due Date: Sunday 11/01/26 @ 1130 PM

Week 11: VNSG-2410 Sensory Disorders #1 Lecture, VNSG-2410 Exam #3

Week 12:  VNSG-2410 Sensory Disorders #2 Lecture, VNSG-2410 Renal #1 & #2 Lecture

Lippincott CoursePoint Assignments Due Date: Sunday 11/15/26 @ 1130 PM

Week 13: VNSG-2410 Exam #4, HURST REVIEW (2 Days) MANDATORY  

Week 14: VNSG-2410/1463 Final Skills Checkoffs, Final Clinical Evaluations 

Week 15: VNSG-2410 HESI Pharmacology Exam, VNSG-2410 Professionalism Day, VNSG-2410 Final Exam 

Week 16: VNSG-2410 HESI Reach Final Exam 

Schedule subject to change at the discretion of the Program Coordinator

Date: 09/11/26 Exam I-Time: 0830 AM

Date: 10/06/26 Exam II-Time: 0830 AM

Date: 11/03/26 Exam III-Time: 1230 PM

Date: 11/17/26 Exam IV-Time: 0830 AM

Date: 11/30/26 Pharmacology HESI-Time: 0830 AM 

Date: 12/04/26 Final Exam-Time: 1230 PM

Date: 12/07/26 HESI Reach Exit-Time: 1230 PM

Final Exam Date: Friday 12/04/26-Time: 1230 PM

90-100 = A       

80-89 = B       

75-79 = C       

74-60 = D    

Below 60 = F

The following method will be used to determine each student grade in the course:

BON AND Pearson VUE Registration/Payment Pass/Fail Assignment

Exam I 13.75 % Grade

Exam II                                          13.75 % Grade

Exam III                                          13.75 % Grade

Exam IV                                          13.75 % Grade

Final Exam                                      30.00 % Grade

HESI Reach Final Exam conversion score                 5 % Grade

Pharmacology HESI conversion score                   5 % Grade

Daily/Computer Work (after 75% exam average)       5 % Grade 

Total = Grade 

A minimum average of 75%, independent of all other requirements, is necessary to pass this course. Daily activity grades (discussion boards, classroom/computer assignments, etc.) will not be included in grade calculations until a 75% average on exams is achieved. No grades will be rounded until the final course average: this includes the weighted exam average. 

Students and faculty of the Lamar State College-Port Arthur Vocational Nursing Program are expected to assist in maintaining a classroom environment that is conducive to learning. To assure that faculty have the opportunity to teach and students have the opportunity to benefit from time spent in class, unless otherwise approved by the instructor, students are prohibited from engaging in distracting classroom behavior. If a student is unable to maintain these expectations or stated program requirements, dismissal from the program may occur. 

The following behaviors may result in the student being asked to cease the action, and/or leave the classroom or labs: 

• Inappropriate and/or disruptive use of cell phones or other electronics

• Talking or sleeping while the instructor is giving instructions or during class discussions/presentations; 

• Or displaying a rude or negative attitude/behavior to the instructor or other students.

• Counseling for repetitive tardiness; A student who is tardy two (2) times in one class. Tardiness is defined as arriving greater than 15 minutes to class

• Promptness is expected. Students should be on time for all classes and return from breaks promptly.

• Students are expected to come to didactic, lab, and clinical/simulation experiences prepared and present as sincere, adult learners. Pre-course assignments may be required for admissions into class. 

• Phone calls and/or text messages should be returned only during scheduled breaks.

• Cell phones must be on vibrate in the classroom and off and out of reach during testing and test reviews. In the event of an emergency, family can contact students through the AH Secretary, Vocational Nursing Program Coordinator, or Department Chair.

• On-campus computers will only be used for classroom work.

• All information shared by other students and instructors will remain confidential and should not be shared with others outside of the classroom or lab environment.

• Students should not engage in ‘side-bar’ discussions during classroom, exam reviews, clinical, and lab.

• Comments should be directed to the faculty in charge of the classroom, clinical, or lab time. 

• All students are expected to actively participate in all discussions, activities, and exercises. 

• Students are expected to be open to new ideas and experiences and to step outside of their comfort zone. 

• A positive attitude is expected and comments should give supportive feedback.

• The classroom, clinical, and lab environment is a judgment-free zone.

• Students are responsible for their actions and are responsible for learning as much as possible from the experiences provided.

• Students are encouraged to seek assistance from peers and faculty when needed to be successful. 

• Student support of each other in the learning environment is encouraged and expected. Supportive relationships with each other will allow a more positive learning environment to enable all to work together as a team and develop professionally.  

• Students should not be talking while the instructor is giving instructions or during class discussions/presentations 

• Students should respect the instructor’s clinical hours and only utilize their cell phone during clinical or simulation times to contact their instructor. All other means of communication should be via an email to all instructors.

• Students should use the proper chain of command with any concerns and cares that occur. The first line of command is your instructors. No exceptions. 

Students are expected to follow LSCPA-VN policies according to the student handbook and course syllabi. Violation of policies could result in further disciplinary action and/or dismissal from program. Syllabus and handbook are subject to change

Nursing in Health and Illness VNSG 2410 and the clinical component of this course VNSG 1463 may consist of online & in class lectures, labs, and assignments. Schedules may be changed at the discretion of the faculty and vocational nursing coordinator. All attendance policies are in effect whether conducted online or in the classroom setting. Research has shown a cause-and-effect relationship between attendance and college success. Students should check their emails and blackboard daily to ensure changes have not been made.

Policies for this course are described below: 

1.  Because poor attendance is a leading reason for termination from a job in all areas of employment, attendance at all scheduled classes is expected.

2.   A student who is absent from course activities for more than three (3) days without notification to the faculty may be dropped from the program by the Program Director. Students on campus but not in class are considered absent. Students who do not attend scheduled live and/or virtual activities will be counted absent.

3.   Late arrival to class is disruptive. Students who consistently arrive after the beginning of the class (2 or more times) will be counseled and a plan of corrective action determined. Class will begin promptly at the scheduled time.

4.   Students who arrive fifteen (15) minutes after the beginning of class should not enter the classroom and should wait until break to enter. 

5.  It is the student’s responsibility to notify ALL instructors of any absence. If the student is unable to contact the instructor(s), the student should call 409-984-6356 or 1-800-477-5872 ext. 6356. The student should also email the faculty or call the faculty office and leave a voicemail. Failure to notify instructors will result in a declaration of a “No Call, No Show” for the number of days absent and may result in the student being dismissed from the program. Note: Students are not to contact faculty via cell phones outside of clinical hours.

6.  Lab jackets are to be worn at all times while in the skills lab.

7.  Simulation/Computer Lab Assignments are mandatory. Failure to attend will result in a Zero for that assignment.   

The Program Director or Department Chair has the right to initiate the administrative withdrawal of any student whose attendance, conduct, scholastic abilities, attitude or lack of aptitude for Vocational Nursing making it inadvisable for that student to continue in the program.

See VNSG 2410 Syllabus Addendum in Blackboard.

Be sure to check your campus email and Course Homepage using MyLSCPA campus web portal. You can also access your grades, transcripts, academic advisors, degree progress, and other services through MyLSCPA.

Academic honesty is expected from all students, and dishonesty in any form will not be tolerated. Please consult the LSCPA policies (Academic Dishonesty section in the Student Handbook) for consequences of academic dishonesty.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal anti-discrimination statute that provides comprehensive civil rights for persons with disabilities. Among other things, this legislation requires that all students with disabilities be guaranteed a learning environment that provides for reasonable accommodation of their disabilities. If you believe you have a disability requiring an accommodation, please contact the Accessibility Services Coordinator, Room 119, in the Ruby Fuller Building. The phone number is (409) 984-6241.

No food or tobacco products are allowed in the classroom. Only students enrolled in the course are allowed in the classroom, except by special instructor permission. Use of electronic devices is prohibited.

This syllabus is part of LSCPA's efforts to comply with Texas House Bill 2504.

As per Texas law and LSCPA policy, all LSCPA employees, including faculty, are required to report allegations or disclosures of child abuse or neglect to the designated authorities, which may include a local or state law enforcement agency or the Texas Department of Family Protective Services. For more information about mandatory reporting requirements, see LSCPA's Policy and Procedure Manual.

LSCPA is committed to establishing and maintaining an environment that is free from all forms of sex discrimination, including sexual harassment, sexual violence, and other forms of sexual misconduct. All LSCPA employees, including faculty, have the responsibility to report disclosures of sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment, sexual assault (including rape and acquaintance rape), domestic violence, dating violence, relationship violence, or stalking, to LSCPA's Title IX Coordinator, whose role is to coordinate the college's response to sexual misconduct. For more information about Title IX protections, faculty reporting responsibilities, options for confidential reporting, and the resources available for support visit LSCPA's Title IX website.

For more information about the Clery Act and crime reporting, see the Annual Security & Fire Safety Report and the Campus Security website.

If you have a grievance, complaint, or concern about this course that has not been resolved through discussion with the Instructor, please consult the Department Chair.