Expanded Nursing Uganda Explanation
Understanding Software (OS vs Apps) should be understood beyond a short definition. Link the concept to patient history, focused assessment, common risks, nursing priorities, documentation and evaluation of outcomes.
01 BNS 115: Computer Skills
Developing essential digital literacy for modern healthcare practice from professional documentation and data management to understanding health informatics.
02 Course Content
Explore the detailed topics covered in Computer Skills.
03 Introduction to Computers & Operating Systems
- Fundamentals of Computer Hardware
- Understanding Software (OS vs Apps)
- Navigating the GUI
- File and Folder Management
- Basic Troubleshooting & IT Security
04 Word Processing for Healthcare Professionals
- Creating & Formatting Documents
- Using Templates and Styles
- Inserting Tables, Charts, & Images
- Citing Sources & Reference Lists
- Collaboration Tools (Track Changes)
05 Spreadsheet Fundamentals for Data Management
- Introduction to Spreadsheets
- Entering and Formatting Data
- Using Basic Formulas & Functions
- Creating Charts and Graphs
- Sorting and Filtering Data Sets
06 Presentation Skills for Health Education
- Designing Effective Presentations
- Incorporating Multimedia
- Presenting Data Clearly
- Public Speaking Techniques
07 Internet and Email Communication
- Professional Email Etiquette
- Using Web Browsers Effectively
- Evaluating Online Health Information
- Using Online Research Databases
08 Introduction to Health Informatics
- Definition & Importance
- Overview of Electronic Health Records (EHRs)
- Data Privacy and Security (HIPAA)
- Technology in Patient Safety & Quality
- Intro to Telehealth & mHealth
Standard examples of texts and resources for this course.
- Poatsy, M. A., et al. (2020). Technology in Action . Pearson.
- Saba, V. K., & McCormick, K. A. (Eds.). (2015). Essentials of nursing informatics (6th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.
- Online tutorials from Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Google Workspace.
- Institutional guidelines on IT security and professional communication.
09 Nursing Uganda Clinical Lens
Use Fundamentals of Computer Hardware as a practical nursing topic, not only a memorized definition. Combine safety, therapeutic communication, mental status assessment and dignity.
- What to understand first: define fundamentals of computer hardware, identify the normal or expected pattern, then explain what changes when the patient is unwell.
- Why it matters in care: the nurse must recognize risk early, explain findings clearly, document accurately and know when to escalate.
- How to revise it: connect each point to assessment, nursing diagnosis or care problem, intervention, rationale and evaluation.
10 Assessment Guide
- Appearance, behaviour, speech, mood, thought process, perception, cognition and insight.
- Risk of self-harm, harm to others, neglect, withdrawal, substance use or relapse.
- Support systems, medication adherence, sleep, appetite and triggers.
11 Nursing Priorities, Rationales and Outcomes
- Maintain safety using the least restrictive approach possible.
- Use calm communication, active listening and non-judgmental observation.
- Support adherence, coping skills, family involvement and follow-up.
The rationale for these priorities is patient safety: nursing actions should prevent deterioration, reduce discomfort, support recovery and create clear evidence for the next caregiver.
- Expected outcome: Risk reduces, the patient engages with care, symptoms are monitored and a realistic safety or relapse plan is in place.
12 Patient Teaching and Revision Check
- Explain fundamentals of computer hardware in simple language the patient or caregiver can repeat back.
- Teach warning signs, medicine or follow-up instructions, hygiene or lifestyle points where relevant.
- For exams, prepare a short answer using: definition, causes or risk factors, signs, assessment, management, complications and prevention.
- For ward practice, document baseline findings, actions taken, patient response and the plan for review.
Illustrations and Diagrams (1)

Related Video Lectures
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