Philosophy
The philosophy of the nursing program is consistent with the mission and philosophy of Andrew College. The faculty believes that individuals are multidimensional physiologic, psychosocial and spiritual beings. Individuals are autonomous and have the right to make decisions.
Health is a state of optimal wellness that is defined by individual perceptions, values, and preferences. Health includes the ability to adapt to change in order to meet needs. Health is a partnership between the individual and the health care system.
Nursing is a caring profession which is an art and an applied science that integrates concepts of the humanities, natural and social sciences. Utilizing the nursing process and evidence-based practice as a foundation for clinical decision-making, nurses provide care that addresses the needs of diverse populations with varying lifestyles across the life span. Nurses practice collaboratively within a multidisciplinary health care team. Nurses advocate for and empower patients and families to make informed health care decisions. Nurses have a critical role in promoting health care delivery to insure patient safety and provide quality care.
Education is a lifelong, dynamic process of intellectual, social, emotional and spiritual development building upon culture, self-image and value system. Learning is the acquisition of knowledge, skills, and understanding which results in changed behavior. The educational process assists the learner to think critically, to reason, and to make ethical decisions. The faculty as facilitators of learning are themselves, participant learners. Faculty and students are mutually responsible for learning. Nursing education is a process though which nurses are educated for practice by the acquisition and application of new knowledge and skills. The faculty believes that the associate degree is the foundation for baccalaureate and higher nursing education.
