Epidemiology is a discipline in constant development. Although once limited to infectious diseases, it is a complex field that utilizes a multidisciplinary approach. Today epidemiology encompasses both infectious and chronic diseases, as well as other health-related conditions, with attention to the influence of environmental, genetic, and psychosocial factors. It touches a variety of health fields (e.g., healthcare administration, clinical medicine, and nursing) and crosses national boundaries to address global health concerns. This course introduces the rationale and methods of epidemiology, which serve a vital role for understanding and addressing population health issues.

As a nurse engaged in advanced practice, you will find these principles to be invaluable as you lead efforts to promote positive health outcomes at the aggregate level.

In this course, you will examine various observational and analytic study designs within epidemiology, primary and secondary data sources, epidemiologic measures, sources of error, and ethical issues relevant to research. A prominent feature of this course will be the review of the literature and the use of appropriate data sources, which is a critical step for measuring the association between exposure to risk factors and outcomes related to population health problems. The overarching goal is to be able to apply epidemiologic research findings to evidence-based practice.

You will design a program proposal for a chronic health issue that builds from the findings of epidemiological research, which will help you refine the skills and perspective needed to be a successful advocate for social change.

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Advanced practice nurses frequently apply epidemiologic concepts to inform evidence-based practice. Students in this course are provided with an overview of epidemiologic methods in the study of the distribution and etiology of disease and health-related conditions in human populations. Students examine select population health issues such as chronic and infectious diseases and effects of disasters and emergencies. Throughout this course, students gain a deeper understanding of the various research designs and methodologies professionals use in epidemiologic research and their relevance to population-based nursing practice. Consideration is given to study designs, primary and secondary data sources, epidemiologic measures, sources of error, and ethical issues relevant to research. Students apply epidemiologic methods to the development of a program proposal for a population health issue.

COURSE LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the conclusion of this course, you should be able to:

1. Analyze the history and role of nurses in advancing population health
2. Apply epidemiologic concepts and approaches to population-based nursing practice
3. Evaluate uses, strengths, and limitations of epidemiologic data sources
4. Analyze epidemiologic study designs and their utility
5. Critique epidemiologic literature
6. Analyze cultural and ethical issues that influence epidemiologic practices and population health
7. Apply epidemiologic principles to the elimination of health inequities and prevention and improvement of health-related outcomes
8. Apply concepts, theories, and methods of program design to population health issues

Course Summary: