

- Are you interested in health?
- Are you passionate about improving healthcare clinic services?
- Do you want to be actively involved in the future development of healthcare clinics?
- Do you want to improve the health of people in Iceland?
This programme is offered jointly by UI and UA and is based at the University of Akureyri. You can apply on the University of Akureyri website.
Programme structure
Students choose between two specialisations:
- Primary healthcare for adults
- Health protection for children and young people
Organisation of teaching
The programme is taught using distance learning technology, building on the wealth of experience at UI and UA. Students also attend classes in real time using Zoom and Teams. There is a focus on discussion periods and workshops.
On-site blocks of theoretical learning are hosted either by UI, UA or the Development Centre for Primary Healthcare in Iceland. The hosting university may make theoretical courses available for other students. Each student chooses elective courses related to their specialisation and interests in consultation with the board of study.
Employment contract
Master’s students will work at 80% FTE for 2 years at the healthcare institution at which they are employed. They will generally be mentored by another employee at the same institution.
In exceptional cases, the student and mentor may not live in the same area or work at the same healthcare institution. In this situation, technology will be used to ensure personalised learning, advice, support, guidance and supervision for the student and a special agreement between the healthcare institutions will be made to this effect.
Students who start a master's program in primary health care nursing must have completed a bachelor's degree in nursing (240 ECTS) (with a minimum average grade of 7.00), have a valid nursing license in Iceland and can demonstrate employment in a special study position at a health institution
It is a clinical master's program of 120 ECTS credits. Students will be hired for two-year special education positions. With the program, nurses have the opportunity to broaden and deepen their professional knowledge within health care and develop their skills to meet new demands and requirements in their work. The program gives nurses access to a mentoring program for specialist qualifications in health care nursing (2 years full-time) and doctoral studies. The program is organized in collaboration with the Faculty of Health Sciences of HA, the Department of Nursing and Midwifery at the University of Iceland, the Health Center of the Capital Region and the Development Center of Icelandic Health Care. Upon completion, students graduate with a joint degree from HA and HÍ.
Further information on supporting documents can be found here
Programme structure
Check below to see how the programme is structured.
- First year
- Fall
- Quantitative research methods
- Assessment of physical and psychological health
- Supportive interviewing and family nursing
- Health care and health promotion
- Spring 1
- Advanced emergency nursing - assessment and care
- Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology
- Qualitative Nursing Research
- Clinical studies in health care nursing I
- Leadership in health care
Quantitative research methods (HJÚ0B8F)
This course aims to give students an understanding of quantitative data collection, enabling them to critically evaluate the strengths and limitations of different data collection methods in various research contexts. Students will be familiarised with suitable study design and statistical analytical approaches to answer research questions. Students are trained in implementing descriptive and inferential statistical analysis with the Jamovi statistical software and can interpret and report statistical results precisely and efficiently.
The course is taught at the University of Akureyri. You can find more information about the course on their website: https://ugla.unak.is/kennsluskra/index.php?tab=nam&chapter=namskeid&id=86200320256&namskra=1
Assessment of physical and psychological health (HJÚ0BAF)
The subject of this course is to strengthen nurses in performing a holistic, physical and mental health assessment of individuals of all ages seeking health care. To diagnose problems/issues and set goals for ongoing care/services based on health assessment results. Special emphasis will be on the classification system of emergency cases, poisoning, burns and suturing of wounds. Symptoms that may indicate violence and the services available to victims of violence are also discussed. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based work practices, initiative and professional involvement of nurses in the implementation and recording of health assessments.
The course is taught at the University of Akureyri. You can find more information about the course on their website: https://ugla.unak.is/kennsluskra/index.php?tab=nam&chapter=namskeid&id=86445420256&namskra=1
Supportive interviewing and family nursing (HJÚ0BCF)
The aim of this course is to enhance the student´s the ability in performing supportive interviews with individuals and families. The emphasize is on introduction evidence-based methods of psychotherapy such as supportive psychotherapy; cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT); motivational interviewing; mindfulness and family interviews according to Calgary family nursing model. The focus is on evidence-based practices, initiative and professional involvement of nurses in teamwork and way to enhance their skills, competence and knowledge of key issues in supportive interviews.
The course is taught at the University of Akureyri. You can find more information about the course on their website: https://ugla.unak.is/kennsluskra/index.php?tab=nam&chapter=namskeid&id=86396420256&namskra=1
Health care and health promotion (HJÚ0BBF)
The course is developed around the core function and social responsibility of the Primary health care system, in present and future. Emphasis is on interdisciplinary and problem based approach. The students will be guided to focus on new opportunities in the Primary health care service based on primary, secondary and tertiary prevention by enhancing available services to individuals, families along with the primary health care systems responsibility in the society. In the course students get the opportunity to strengthen their skills and expertise as therapists in interdisciplinary cooperation and identifying opportunities for development.
The course is taught at the University of Akureyri. You can find more information about the course on their website: https://ugla.unak.is/kennsluskra/index.php?tab=nam&chapter=namskeid&id=86379820256&namskra=1
Advanced emergency nursing - assessment and care (HJÚ271F)
The aim of this course is to deepen nurses' knowledge on the causes of acute and critical diseases and improve their skills in the assessment and treatment of seriously ill patients. The course covers, among other things, acute infectious diseases, poisons and trauma, assessment of the critically ill, resuscitation, respiratory failure, acute central nervous system problems, kidney problems, fluid and electrolyte disturbances, sepsis and shock. Emphasis will be placed on teaching students to assess the critically ill patient and respond with adequate care. There will be a special focus on clinical guidelines and standards of care, evidence-based clinical knowledge, skills training and strengthening the competence of students in acute situations.
Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology (HJÚ0AQF)
In this course, the emphasis is on advanced physiology and pathophysiological changes in body function that lead to disorder and disease. The focus is on organ systems and particular alterations in physiological processes underlying common diseases across the lifespan. Prevalent clinical symptoms will be discussed, etiologies, diagnosis and treatment therein. In the course, various teaching methods will be used with an emphasis on active participation of students and the transfer of their knowledge to clinical situations.
Qualitative Nursing Research (HJÚ253F)
The course is intended to deepen students' knowledge in qualitative methodology. The philosophical and theoretical basis of qualitative methods is taught alongside its practical application in nursing and midwifery. In this context, students develop skills to develop initiate their own research projects and to utilize research results within their own field of expertise.
The student brings interesting research articles conducted within his/her speciality to class and they are used in wider discussions of qualitative methodology.
To prepare the student to conduct qualitative studies we have organized interactive workshops. Throughout the course, ethical issues related to qualitative research are also discussed, such as confidentiality, validity and generalization of research results.
The student is also trained to critically appraise the quality of published qualitative research articles. Particular emphasis is placed on getting the student acquainted with phenomenology, qualitative content analysis (theme analysis vs. coding and deductive vs. inductive analysis), field studies (ethnography), individual interviews and focus group interviews, mixed-method research, and action research.
Projects that the student engage in during the course should be associated with their own field of expertise and must be prepared in collaboration with their main supervisor.
Clinical studies in health care nursing I (HJÚ0BDF)
The goal of the course is for the special education nurses to train and deepen their clinical skills by making use of knowledge from academic courses in the study program. These are the courses, Supportive conversation therapy and Family nursing, Specialized health assessment and the course Health care nursing and the community. The program is individualized, and each student sets his own learning goals at the beginning of the program.
The course is taught at the University of Akureyri. You can find more information about the course on their website: https://ugla.unak.is/kennsluskra/index.php?tab=nam&chapter=namskeid&id=86444920260&namskra=1
Leadership in health care (HJÚ258F)
The work environment of health care services has changed constantly in recent years requiring more than ever leadership skills of nurses as well as other healthcare professionals, whether in clinical roles, teaching or education. The course should prepare students for leadership roles in healthcare.
The course content includes concepts, models and theories in leadership. The role and characteristics of leaders and the role of leaders as change agents are discussed, within health care organizations and generally in the community, locally and globally, at present and in the future. A global approach and innovation are emphasized.
- Second year
- Fall
- Not taught this semesterPsychosocial health into adulthood
- Not taught this semesterSupport for adults in the community
- Pharmacology for nurses
- Not taught this semesterClinical studies in health care nursing II
- Final project
- Spring 1
- Final project
- Not taught this semesterClinical studies in health care nursing III
Psychosocial health into adulthood (HJÚ0BFF)
The subject of the course is to improve the knowledge, mastery and skills of nurses in assessing the psychosocial well-being of children and young people as well as families. Special emphasis will be placed on prevention and identification of the symptoms of psychosocial problems and related remedies. Mental health during pregnancy and after childbirth, reading in the child's expression, relationship building and support in the parental role will be discussed. The focus will be on the mental health of children and young people, the most common mental disorders and risky behaviours, as well as early intervention by nurses and advice on more specialized resources.
The course is taught at the University of Akureyri. You can find more information about the course on their website: https://ugla.unak.is/kennsluskra/index.php?tab=nam&chapter=namskeid&id=86442820266&namskra=1
Support for adults in the community (HJÚ0BGF)
This course builds on knowledge that students have already acquired in the courses Clinical Physiology and Pathology, Pharmacology for Nurses and Assessment of Mental and Physical Well-Being. Students use this knowledge in the implementation of nursing care for those living with poor health and/or reduced skills due to chronic illness or aging. We will continue to work on the application of evidence-based knowledge that can be found in clinical guidelines and academic summaries. Students get the opportunity to design support methods for different situations in health care nursing, e.g. in home care and reception for people with chronic health problems and/or the elderly. The influence of conditions at home, organization of services, integration and use of welfare technology will be discussed.
Pharmacology for nurses (HJÚ159F)
The objective of the course is for nurses to know and understand drugs activity in order to enable administration of drugs and complex medications to patients in a safe and responsible manner.
The course introduces activity, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, indications and contraindications to cardiovascular drugs, antibiotics, gastrointestinal drugs, endocrine drugs, hormonal drugs, neuropathic drugs, painkillers and respiratory drugs, with lectures and discussion sessions. Emphasis is placed on solving complex clinical examples in in-hospital and out-of-hospital patient care where knowledge of efficacy, adverse, intermediate, and drug-drug interactions.
The course is for registered nurses enrolled in the MS program at Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Iceland.
The teachers are pharmacists, specialists and specialists in nursing.
Clinical studies in health care nursing II (HJÚ0BHF)
The course is taught at the University of Akureyri. You can find more information about the course on their website: https://ugla.unak.is/kennsluskra/index.php?tab=nam&chapter=namskeid&id=86445020266&namskra=1
Final project (HJÚ441L)
Final project
Final project (HJÚ441L)
Final project
Clinical studies in health care nursing III (HJÚ0BIF)
The goal of the course is for the special education nurses to train and deepen their clinical skills by making use of knowledge from Clinical studies I and Clinical studies II academic courses in the study program. These are the courses, Supportive conversation therapy and family nursing, Specialized health assessment, Primary care nursing and the community, Clinical physiology and pathology, Nursing in specialty II and Pharmacy for nurses. The program is individualized, and each student sets his own learning goals at the beginning of the program.
The course is taught at the University of Akureyri. You can find more information about the course on their website: https://ugla.unak.is/kennsluskra/index.php?tab=nam&chapter=namskeid&id=86444120270&namskra=1
- Fall
- HJÚ0B8FQuantitative research methodsMandatory (required) course10A mandatory (required) course for the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse Description
This course aims to give students an understanding of quantitative data collection, enabling them to critically evaluate the strengths and limitations of different data collection methods in various research contexts. Students will be familiarised with suitable study design and statistical analytical approaches to answer research questions. Students are trained in implementing descriptive and inferential statistical analysis with the Jamovi statistical software and can interpret and report statistical results precisely and efficiently.
The course is taught at the University of Akureyri. You can find more information about the course on their website: https://ugla.unak.is/kennsluskra/index.php?tab=nam&chapter=namskeid&id=86200320256&namskra=1
PrerequisitesHJÚ0BAFAssessment of physical and psychological healthMandatory (required) course5A mandatory (required) course for the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe subject of this course is to strengthen nurses in performing a holistic, physical and mental health assessment of individuals of all ages seeking health care. To diagnose problems/issues and set goals for ongoing care/services based on health assessment results. Special emphasis will be on the classification system of emergency cases, poisoning, burns and suturing of wounds. Symptoms that may indicate violence and the services available to victims of violence are also discussed. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based work practices, initiative and professional involvement of nurses in the implementation and recording of health assessments.
The course is taught at the University of Akureyri. You can find more information about the course on their website: https://ugla.unak.is/kennsluskra/index.php?tab=nam&chapter=namskeid&id=86445420256&namskra=1
PrerequisitesHJÚ0BCFSupportive interviewing and family nursingMandatory (required) course5A mandatory (required) course for the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe aim of this course is to enhance the student´s the ability in performing supportive interviews with individuals and families. The emphasize is on introduction evidence-based methods of psychotherapy such as supportive psychotherapy; cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT); motivational interviewing; mindfulness and family interviews according to Calgary family nursing model. The focus is on evidence-based practices, initiative and professional involvement of nurses in teamwork and way to enhance their skills, competence and knowledge of key issues in supportive interviews.
The course is taught at the University of Akureyri. You can find more information about the course on their website: https://ugla.unak.is/kennsluskra/index.php?tab=nam&chapter=namskeid&id=86396420256&namskra=1
PrerequisitesHJÚ0BBFHealth care and health promotionMandatory (required) course10A mandatory (required) course for the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe course is developed around the core function and social responsibility of the Primary health care system, in present and future. Emphasis is on interdisciplinary and problem based approach. The students will be guided to focus on new opportunities in the Primary health care service based on primary, secondary and tertiary prevention by enhancing available services to individuals, families along with the primary health care systems responsibility in the society. In the course students get the opportunity to strengthen their skills and expertise as therapists in interdisciplinary cooperation and identifying opportunities for development.
The course is taught at the University of Akureyri. You can find more information about the course on their website: https://ugla.unak.is/kennsluskra/index.php?tab=nam&chapter=namskeid&id=86379820256&namskra=1
Prerequisites- Spring 2
HJÚ271FAdvanced emergency nursing - assessment and careRestricted elective course6Restricted elective course, conditions apply6 ECTS, credits1 fieldwork creditsCourse DescriptionThe aim of this course is to deepen nurses' knowledge on the causes of acute and critical diseases and improve their skills in the assessment and treatment of seriously ill patients. The course covers, among other things, acute infectious diseases, poisons and trauma, assessment of the critically ill, resuscitation, respiratory failure, acute central nervous system problems, kidney problems, fluid and electrolyte disturbances, sepsis and shock. Emphasis will be placed on teaching students to assess the critically ill patient and respond with adequate care. There will be a special focus on clinical guidelines and standards of care, evidence-based clinical knowledge, skills training and strengthening the competence of students in acute situations.
The course is taught if the specified conditions are metPrerequisitesAttendance required in classHJÚ0AQFAdvanced Physiology and PathophysiologyMandatory (required) course6A mandatory (required) course for the programme6 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionIn this course, the emphasis is on advanced physiology and pathophysiological changes in body function that lead to disorder and disease. The focus is on organ systems and particular alterations in physiological processes underlying common diseases across the lifespan. Prevalent clinical symptoms will be discussed, etiologies, diagnosis and treatment therein. In the course, various teaching methods will be used with an emphasis on active participation of students and the transfer of their knowledge to clinical situations.
Distance learningPrerequisitesHJÚ253FQualitative Nursing ResearchMandatory (required) course6A mandatory (required) course for the programme6 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe course is intended to deepen students' knowledge in qualitative methodology. The philosophical and theoretical basis of qualitative methods is taught alongside its practical application in nursing and midwifery. In this context, students develop skills to develop initiate their own research projects and to utilize research results within their own field of expertise.
The student brings interesting research articles conducted within his/her speciality to class and they are used in wider discussions of qualitative methodology.
To prepare the student to conduct qualitative studies we have organized interactive workshops. Throughout the course, ethical issues related to qualitative research are also discussed, such as confidentiality, validity and generalization of research results.
The student is also trained to critically appraise the quality of published qualitative research articles. Particular emphasis is placed on getting the student acquainted with phenomenology, qualitative content analysis (theme analysis vs. coding and deductive vs. inductive analysis), field studies (ethnography), individual interviews and focus group interviews, mixed-method research, and action research.
Projects that the student engage in during the course should be associated with their own field of expertise and must be prepared in collaboration with their main supervisor.
Distance learningThe course is taught if the specified conditions are metPrerequisitesAttendance required in classHJÚ0BDFClinical studies in health care nursing IMandatory (required) course6A mandatory (required) course for the programme6 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe goal of the course is for the special education nurses to train and deepen their clinical skills by making use of knowledge from academic courses in the study program. These are the courses, Supportive conversation therapy and Family nursing, Specialized health assessment and the course Health care nursing and the community. The program is individualized, and each student sets his own learning goals at the beginning of the program.
The course is taught at the University of Akureyri. You can find more information about the course on their website: https://ugla.unak.is/kennsluskra/index.php?tab=nam&chapter=namskeid&id=86444920260&namskra=1
PrerequisitesHJÚ258FLeadership in health careMandatory (required) course6A mandatory (required) course for the programme6 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe work environment of health care services has changed constantly in recent years requiring more than ever leadership skills of nurses as well as other healthcare professionals, whether in clinical roles, teaching or education. The course should prepare students for leadership roles in healthcare.
The course content includes concepts, models and theories in leadership. The role and characteristics of leaders and the role of leaders as change agents are discussed, within health care organizations and generally in the community, locally and globally, at present and in the future. A global approach and innovation are emphasized.
Distance learningThe course is taught if the specified conditions are metPrerequisitesAttendance required in class- Fall
- Not taught this semesterHJÚ0BFFPsychosocial health into adulthoodRestricted elective course6Restricted elective course, conditions apply6 ECTS, creditsCourse Description
The subject of the course is to improve the knowledge, mastery and skills of nurses in assessing the psychosocial well-being of children and young people as well as families. Special emphasis will be placed on prevention and identification of the symptoms of psychosocial problems and related remedies. Mental health during pregnancy and after childbirth, reading in the child's expression, relationship building and support in the parental role will be discussed. The focus will be on the mental health of children and young people, the most common mental disorders and risky behaviours, as well as early intervention by nurses and advice on more specialized resources.
The course is taught at the University of Akureyri. You can find more information about the course on their website: https://ugla.unak.is/kennsluskra/index.php?tab=nam&chapter=namskeid&id=86442820266&namskra=1
PrerequisitesNot taught this semesterHJÚ0BGFSupport for adults in the communityRestricted elective course6Restricted elective course, conditions apply6 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThis course builds on knowledge that students have already acquired in the courses Clinical Physiology and Pathology, Pharmacology for Nurses and Assessment of Mental and Physical Well-Being. Students use this knowledge in the implementation of nursing care for those living with poor health and/or reduced skills due to chronic illness or aging. We will continue to work on the application of evidence-based knowledge that can be found in clinical guidelines and academic summaries. Students get the opportunity to design support methods for different situations in health care nursing, e.g. in home care and reception for people with chronic health problems and/or the elderly. The influence of conditions at home, organization of services, integration and use of welfare technology will be discussed.
PrerequisitesHJÚ159FPharmacology for nursesMandatory (required) course6A mandatory (required) course for the programme6 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe objective of the course is for nurses to know and understand drugs activity in order to enable administration of drugs and complex medications to patients in a safe and responsible manner.
The course introduces activity, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, indications and contraindications to cardiovascular drugs, antibiotics, gastrointestinal drugs, endocrine drugs, hormonal drugs, neuropathic drugs, painkillers and respiratory drugs, with lectures and discussion sessions. Emphasis is placed on solving complex clinical examples in in-hospital and out-of-hospital patient care where knowledge of efficacy, adverse, intermediate, and drug-drug interactions.
The course is for registered nurses enrolled in the MS program at Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Iceland.
The teachers are pharmacists, specialists and specialists in nursing.
Distance learningThe course is taught if the specified conditions are metPrerequisitesAttendance required in classNot taught this semesterHJÚ0BHFClinical studies in health care nursing IIMandatory (required) course8A mandatory (required) course for the programme8 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe course is taught at the University of Akureyri. You can find more information about the course on their website: https://ugla.unak.is/kennsluskra/index.php?tab=nam&chapter=namskeid&id=86445020266&namskra=1
PrerequisitesHJÚ441LFinal projectMandatory (required) course0A mandatory (required) course for the programme0 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionFinal project
PrerequisitesPart of the total project/thesis credits- Spring 2
HJÚ441LFinal projectMandatory (required) course0A mandatory (required) course for the programme0 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionFinal project
PrerequisitesPart of the total project/thesis creditsNot taught this semesterHJÚ0BIFClinical studies in health care nursing IIIMandatory (required) course4A mandatory (required) course for the programme4 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe goal of the course is for the special education nurses to train and deepen their clinical skills by making use of knowledge from Clinical studies I and Clinical studies II academic courses in the study program. These are the courses, Supportive conversation therapy and family nursing, Specialized health assessment, Primary care nursing and the community, Clinical physiology and pathology, Nursing in specialty II and Pharmacy for nurses. The program is individualized, and each student sets his own learning goals at the beginning of the program.
The course is taught at the University of Akureyri. You can find more information about the course on their website: https://ugla.unak.is/kennsluskra/index.php?tab=nam&chapter=namskeid&id=86444120270&namskra=1
PrerequisitesSecond year- Fall
- HJÚ0B8FQuantitative research methodsMandatory (required) course10A mandatory (required) course for the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse Description
This course aims to give students an understanding of quantitative data collection, enabling them to critically evaluate the strengths and limitations of different data collection methods in various research contexts. Students will be familiarised with suitable study design and statistical analytical approaches to answer research questions. Students are trained in implementing descriptive and inferential statistical analysis with the Jamovi statistical software and can interpret and report statistical results precisely and efficiently.
The course is taught at the University of Akureyri. You can find more information about the course on their website: https://ugla.unak.is/kennsluskra/index.php?tab=nam&chapter=namskeid&id=86200320256&namskra=1
PrerequisitesHJÚ0BAFAssessment of physical and psychological healthMandatory (required) course5A mandatory (required) course for the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe subject of this course is to strengthen nurses in performing a holistic, physical and mental health assessment of individuals of all ages seeking health care. To diagnose problems/issues and set goals for ongoing care/services based on health assessment results. Special emphasis will be on the classification system of emergency cases, poisoning, burns and suturing of wounds. Symptoms that may indicate violence and the services available to victims of violence are also discussed. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based work practices, initiative and professional involvement of nurses in the implementation and recording of health assessments.
The course is taught at the University of Akureyri. You can find more information about the course on their website: https://ugla.unak.is/kennsluskra/index.php?tab=nam&chapter=namskeid&id=86445420256&namskra=1
PrerequisitesHJÚ0BCFSupportive interviewing and family nursingMandatory (required) course5A mandatory (required) course for the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe aim of this course is to enhance the student´s the ability in performing supportive interviews with individuals and families. The emphasize is on introduction evidence-based methods of psychotherapy such as supportive psychotherapy; cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT); motivational interviewing; mindfulness and family interviews according to Calgary family nursing model. The focus is on evidence-based practices, initiative and professional involvement of nurses in teamwork and way to enhance their skills, competence and knowledge of key issues in supportive interviews.
The course is taught at the University of Akureyri. You can find more information about the course on their website: https://ugla.unak.is/kennsluskra/index.php?tab=nam&chapter=namskeid&id=86396420256&namskra=1
PrerequisitesHJÚ0BBFHealth care and health promotionMandatory (required) course10A mandatory (required) course for the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe course is developed around the core function and social responsibility of the Primary health care system, in present and future. Emphasis is on interdisciplinary and problem based approach. The students will be guided to focus on new opportunities in the Primary health care service based on primary, secondary and tertiary prevention by enhancing available services to individuals, families along with the primary health care systems responsibility in the society. In the course students get the opportunity to strengthen their skills and expertise as therapists in interdisciplinary cooperation and identifying opportunities for development.
The course is taught at the University of Akureyri. You can find more information about the course on their website: https://ugla.unak.is/kennsluskra/index.php?tab=nam&chapter=namskeid&id=86379820256&namskra=1
Prerequisites- Spring 2
HJÚ271FAdvanced emergency nursing - assessment and careRestricted elective course6Restricted elective course, conditions apply6 ECTS, credits1 fieldwork creditsCourse DescriptionThe aim of this course is to deepen nurses' knowledge on the causes of acute and critical diseases and improve their skills in the assessment and treatment of seriously ill patients. The course covers, among other things, acute infectious diseases, poisons and trauma, assessment of the critically ill, resuscitation, respiratory failure, acute central nervous system problems, kidney problems, fluid and electrolyte disturbances, sepsis and shock. Emphasis will be placed on teaching students to assess the critically ill patient and respond with adequate care. There will be a special focus on clinical guidelines and standards of care, evidence-based clinical knowledge, skills training and strengthening the competence of students in acute situations.
The course is taught if the specified conditions are metPrerequisitesAttendance required in classHJÚ0AQFAdvanced Physiology and PathophysiologyMandatory (required) course6A mandatory (required) course for the programme6 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionIn this course, the emphasis is on advanced physiology and pathophysiological changes in body function that lead to disorder and disease. The focus is on organ systems and particular alterations in physiological processes underlying common diseases across the lifespan. Prevalent clinical symptoms will be discussed, etiologies, diagnosis and treatment therein. In the course, various teaching methods will be used with an emphasis on active participation of students and the transfer of their knowledge to clinical situations.
Distance learningPrerequisitesHJÚ253FQualitative Nursing ResearchMandatory (required) course6A mandatory (required) course for the programme6 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe course is intended to deepen students' knowledge in qualitative methodology. The philosophical and theoretical basis of qualitative methods is taught alongside its practical application in nursing and midwifery. In this context, students develop skills to develop initiate their own research projects and to utilize research results within their own field of expertise.
The student brings interesting research articles conducted within his/her speciality to class and they are used in wider discussions of qualitative methodology.
To prepare the student to conduct qualitative studies we have organized interactive workshops. Throughout the course, ethical issues related to qualitative research are also discussed, such as confidentiality, validity and generalization of research results.
The student is also trained to critically appraise the quality of published qualitative research articles. Particular emphasis is placed on getting the student acquainted with phenomenology, qualitative content analysis (theme analysis vs. coding and deductive vs. inductive analysis), field studies (ethnography), individual interviews and focus group interviews, mixed-method research, and action research.
Projects that the student engage in during the course should be associated with their own field of expertise and must be prepared in collaboration with their main supervisor.
Distance learningThe course is taught if the specified conditions are metPrerequisitesAttendance required in classHJÚ0BDFClinical studies in health care nursing IMandatory (required) course6A mandatory (required) course for the programme6 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe goal of the course is for the special education nurses to train and deepen their clinical skills by making use of knowledge from academic courses in the study program. These are the courses, Supportive conversation therapy and Family nursing, Specialized health assessment and the course Health care nursing and the community. The program is individualized, and each student sets his own learning goals at the beginning of the program.
The course is taught at the University of Akureyri. You can find more information about the course on their website: https://ugla.unak.is/kennsluskra/index.php?tab=nam&chapter=namskeid&id=86444920260&namskra=1
PrerequisitesHJÚ258FLeadership in health careMandatory (required) course6A mandatory (required) course for the programme6 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe work environment of health care services has changed constantly in recent years requiring more than ever leadership skills of nurses as well as other healthcare professionals, whether in clinical roles, teaching or education. The course should prepare students for leadership roles in healthcare.
The course content includes concepts, models and theories in leadership. The role and characteristics of leaders and the role of leaders as change agents are discussed, within health care organizations and generally in the community, locally and globally, at present and in the future. A global approach and innovation are emphasized.
Distance learningThe course is taught if the specified conditions are metPrerequisitesAttendance required in class- Fall
- Not taught this semesterHJÚ0BFFPsychosocial health into adulthoodRestricted elective course6Restricted elective course, conditions apply6 ECTS, creditsCourse Description
The subject of the course is to improve the knowledge, mastery and skills of nurses in assessing the psychosocial well-being of children and young people as well as families. Special emphasis will be placed on prevention and identification of the symptoms of psychosocial problems and related remedies. Mental health during pregnancy and after childbirth, reading in the child's expression, relationship building and support in the parental role will be discussed. The focus will be on the mental health of children and young people, the most common mental disorders and risky behaviours, as well as early intervention by nurses and advice on more specialized resources.
The course is taught at the University of Akureyri. You can find more information about the course on their website: https://ugla.unak.is/kennsluskra/index.php?tab=nam&chapter=namskeid&id=86442820266&namskra=1
PrerequisitesNot taught this semesterHJÚ0BGFSupport for adults in the communityRestricted elective course6Restricted elective course, conditions apply6 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThis course builds on knowledge that students have already acquired in the courses Clinical Physiology and Pathology, Pharmacology for Nurses and Assessment of Mental and Physical Well-Being. Students use this knowledge in the implementation of nursing care for those living with poor health and/or reduced skills due to chronic illness or aging. We will continue to work on the application of evidence-based knowledge that can be found in clinical guidelines and academic summaries. Students get the opportunity to design support methods for different situations in health care nursing, e.g. in home care and reception for people with chronic health problems and/or the elderly. The influence of conditions at home, organization of services, integration and use of welfare technology will be discussed.
PrerequisitesHJÚ159FPharmacology for nursesMandatory (required) course6A mandatory (required) course for the programme6 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe objective of the course is for nurses to know and understand drugs activity in order to enable administration of drugs and complex medications to patients in a safe and responsible manner.
The course introduces activity, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, indications and contraindications to cardiovascular drugs, antibiotics, gastrointestinal drugs, endocrine drugs, hormonal drugs, neuropathic drugs, painkillers and respiratory drugs, with lectures and discussion sessions. Emphasis is placed on solving complex clinical examples in in-hospital and out-of-hospital patient care where knowledge of efficacy, adverse, intermediate, and drug-drug interactions.
The course is for registered nurses enrolled in the MS program at Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Iceland.
The teachers are pharmacists, specialists and specialists in nursing.
Distance learningThe course is taught if the specified conditions are metPrerequisitesAttendance required in classNot taught this semesterHJÚ0BHFClinical studies in health care nursing IIMandatory (required) course8A mandatory (required) course for the programme8 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe course is taught at the University of Akureyri. You can find more information about the course on their website: https://ugla.unak.is/kennsluskra/index.php?tab=nam&chapter=namskeid&id=86445020266&namskra=1
PrerequisitesHJÚ441LFinal projectMandatory (required) course0A mandatory (required) course for the programme0 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionFinal project
PrerequisitesPart of the total project/thesis credits- Spring 2
HJÚ441LFinal projectMandatory (required) course0A mandatory (required) course for the programme0 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionFinal project
PrerequisitesPart of the total project/thesis creditsNot taught this semesterHJÚ0BIFClinical studies in health care nursing IIIMandatory (required) course4A mandatory (required) course for the programme4 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe goal of the course is for the special education nurses to train and deepen their clinical skills by making use of knowledge from Clinical studies I and Clinical studies II academic courses in the study program. These are the courses, Supportive conversation therapy and family nursing, Specialized health assessment, Primary care nursing and the community, Clinical physiology and pathology, Nursing in specialty II and Pharmacy for nurses. The program is individualized, and each student sets his own learning goals at the beginning of the program.
The course is taught at the University of Akureyri. You can find more information about the course on their website: https://ugla.unak.is/kennsluskra/index.php?tab=nam&chapter=namskeid&id=86444120270&namskra=1
Prerequisites