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Author Archives: Academic Wizard

August 20, 2025
August 20, 2025

Presenting PICO(T) Findings

Create a 5–10 minute video of yourself, as a presenter, in which you propose an evidence-based plan to improve the outcomes for your diagnosis.

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Introduction

As part of the critical role that EBP plays in nursing, professional nurses share their findings with their peers and others. A big part of research is sharing knowledge so that others can also learn. Professional nurses attend seminars and read journals specific to their practice, and they also publish and present what they have learned. This assessment prepares you to share your knowledge with others.

Instructions Presenting PICO(T) Findings

For this assessment, you are a presenter! You will create a 5–10 minute video using Kaltura or similar software. In the video and written narrative:

· Review your findings from Assessment 3.

· Create a poster presentation based on your findings from Assessment 3 (see the samples in the  Assessment 4: Poster Template Examples   https://capella.alma.exlibrisgroup.com/leganto/public/01CAPELLA_INST/lists/3452314540006731?auth=SAML&section=3452315100006731 reading list). Include:

· An explanation of the diagnosis.

· The research question you developed using PICO(T).

· A summary of your sources.

Presenting PICO(T) Findings

· The answer to your PICO(T) question based on your analysis of evidence.

· Describe the key steps of care you are recommending based on your evidence.

· Give a professional presentation to your peers, showing your poster with your voice narration using Kaltura or similar software.

· Include your written narrative/script of the presentation in a Word document. Add the link to your video at the end of your written narrative.

Refer to  Using Kaltura  Campus resource as needed to record and upload your video.

Note: If you require the use of assistive technology or alternative communication methods to participate in this activity, please contact  DisabilityServices@Capella.edu  to request accommodations. If, for some reason, you are unable to record a video, please contact your faculty as soon as possible to explore options for completing the assessment.

Additional Requirements

Your assessment should also meet the following requirements:

· Length of video: 5–10 minutes. Presenting PICO(T) Findings

· References: Cite at least three professional or scholarly sources of evidence to support the assertions you make in your video. Include additional properly cited references as necessary to support your statements.

· APA reference page: Submit a correctly formatted APA reference page that shows all the sources you used to create and deliver your video. Be sure to format the reference page according to current APA style.

· Video and narrative: You must submit a written narrative of all of your video content. Add the link to your video at the end of your written narrative.

Competencies Measured

By successfully completing this assessment, you will demonstrate your proficiency in the following course competencies and scoring guide criteria:

· Competency 2: Analyze the relevance and potential effectiveness of evidence when making a decision.

· Explain a diagnosis in terms of outcomes, risks, and complications.

· Summarize the content of at least three sources of evidence, including the credibility and relevance of the articles to a specific diagnosis issue.

· Competency 4: Plan care based on the best available evidence.

· Describe a research question developed using the PICO(T) process to address a chosen issue related to a diagnosis.

· Explain the answer to a PICO(T) question based on an analysis of the evidence.

· Describe key steps of care based on the evidence.

· Competency 5: Apply professional, scholarly communication strategies to lead practice changes based on evidence.

· Organize content in a poster presentation and written narrative so ideas flow logically with smooth transitions; contains few errors in grammar/punctuation, word choice, and spelling.

· Communicate effectively in a professional audiovisual presentation with clear light and sound.

· Apply APA formatting to in-text citations and references, exhibiting adherence to most aspects of APA format.

Scoring Guide

Use the scoring guide to understand how your assessment will be evaluated.

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Criterion 1

Explain a diagnosis in terms of outcomes, risks, and complications.

Distinguished

Explains a diagnosis in terms of outcomes, risks, and complications, providing examples.

Proficient

Explains a diagnosis in terms of outcomes, risks, and complications.

Basic

Explains a diagnosis, but may not fully cover outcomes, risks, and complications in the explanation.

Non Performance

Does not explain a diagnosis in terms of outcomes, risks, and complications.

Criterion 2

Describe a research question developed using the PICO(T) process to address a chosen issue related to a diagnosis.

Distinguished

Describes a research question developed using the PICO(T) process to address a chosen issue related to a diagnosis, and identifies how the question meets each of the criteria of the PICO(T) process.

Proficient

Describes a research question developed using the PICO(T) process to address a chosen issue related to a diagnosis.

Basic

Describes a research question developed using the PICO(T) process, though the question may not be specific enough to address all the criteria of the PICO(T) process.

Non Performance

Does not describe a research question developed using the PICO(T) process to address a chosen issue related to a diagnosis.

Criterion 3

Summarize the content of at least three sources of evidence, including the credibility and relevance of the articles to a specific diagnosis issue.

Distinguished

Summarizes the content of more than three sources of evidence, including the credibility and relevance of the articles to a specific diagnosis issue.

Proficient

Summarizes the content of at least three sources of evidence, including the credibility and relevance of the articles to a specific diagnosis issue.

Basic

Summarizes the content of at least three sources of evidence, though not the credibility and relevance.

Non Performance

Does not summarize the content of at least three sources of evidence, including the credibility and relevance of the articles to a specific diagnosis issue.

Criterion 4

Explain the answer to a PICO(T) question based on an analysis of the evidence.

Distinguished

Explains the answer to a PICO(T) question based on an analysis of the evidence, identifying assumptions on which the analysis is based.

Proficient

Explains the answer to a PICO(T) question based on an analysis of the evidence.

Basic

Explains the answer to a PICO(T) question, though not based on the evidence.

Non Performance

Does not explain the answer to a PICO(T) question based on an analysis of the evidence.

Criterion 5

Describe key steps of care based on the evidence.

Distinguished

Describes key steps of care based on the evidence, and explains why these are the most appropriate steps.

Proficient

Describes key steps of care based on the evidence.

Basic

Describes key steps of care, though it’s unclear how they relate to the evidence.

Non Performance

Does not describe key steps of care based on the evidence.

Criterion 6

Organize content in a poster presentation and written narrative so ideas flow logically with smooth transitions; contains few errors in grammar/punctuation, word choice, and spelling.

Distinguished

Organizes content in a poster presentation and written narrative with a clear purpose. Content flows logically with smooth transitions using coherent paragraphs, correct grammar/punctuation, word choice, and free of spelling errors.

Proficient

Organizes content in a poster presentation and written narrative so ideas flow logically with smooth transitions; contains few errors in grammar/punctuation, word choice, and spelling.

Basic

Organizes content in a poster presentation and written narrative with some logical flow and smooth transitions. Contains errors in grammar/punctuation, word choice, and spelling.

Non Performance

Does not organize content in a poster presentation and written narrative so ideas flow logically with smooth transitions; contains many errors in grammar/punctuation, word choice, and spelling.

Criterion 7

Communicate effectively in a professional audiovisual presentation with clear light and sound.

Distinguished

Communicates effectively in a professional audiovisual presentation with clear light and sound. Content delivery is focused, smooth, and well-rehearsed. Video presentation is between 5 and 10 minutes.

Proficient

Communicates effectively in a professional audiovisual presentation with clear light and sound.

Basic

Video is difficult to hear and see, or presentation isn’t professional.

Non Performance

Does not communicate effectively in a professional audiovisual presentation with clear light and sound.

Criterion 8

Apply APA formatting to in-text citations and references, exhibiting adherence to most aspects of APA format.

Distinguished

Exhibits adherence to most aspects of APA formatting of headings, in-text citations, and references. Correctly uses quotes and paraphrasing.

Proficient

Applies APA formatting to in-text citations and references, exhibiting adherence to most aspects of APA format.

Basic

Applies APA formatting to in-text citations, headings, and references incorrectly and/or inconsistently, detracting noticeable from the content. Inconsistently uses headings, quotes, and/or paraphrasing.

Non Performance

Does not apply APA formatting to headings, in-text citations, and references. Does not use quotes or paraphrase correctly.

WalkMe Chat

  • What is the diagnosis including outcomes risks and complications?,

  • What is the PICO(T) research question developed for this diagnosis?,

  • What evidence sources were reviewed and how credible/relevant are they?,

  • What is the answer to the PICO(T) question based on evidence analysis?,

  • What key steps of care are recommended from the findings?

August 20, 2025
August 20, 2025

Certification Choices

Building on the insights gained from last week’s discussion, share your progress in exploring billing and coding certification exams. What factors are you considering, such as industry recognition, specialization options, and alignment with your career goals? Discuss your research findings and reflect on why a specific certification exam appears to be the most suitable for you. Additionally, share any valuable insights or advice you’ve gathered from various sources. Engage with your classmates in a collaborative discussion to exchange thoughts on the diverse range of certification options available. Certification Choices

  1. What progress have you made in exploring billing and coding certification exams?,

  2. What factors are you considering (recognition, specialization, career alignment)?,

  3. What research findings support your choice of certification exam?,

  4. Which certification exam seems most suitable for you and why?,

  5. What valuable insights or advice have you gathered from sources?

Certification ChoicesComprehensive Response

In exploring billing and coding certification exams, I have reviewed the most recognized credentials available in the healthcare industry. The two most common are the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) through the AAPC and the Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) through AHIMA. Both are widely accepted by employers but differ in scope and focus.

The main factors I considered were industry recognition, opportunities for specialization, and long-term career alignment. The CPC certification emphasizes outpatient and physician office coding, while the CCS is considered more hospital-based and focused on inpatient care. These distinctions are important because they guide the type of work environment and career advancement opportunities available.

Research findings suggest that employers in hospital systems often prefer CCS-certified coders because of the complexity of inpatient coding. The CPC, however, is highly valued in outpatient settings, particularly in private practices and specialty clinics. Both certifications provide a strong foundation, but the CCS appears to offer greater flexibility across settings.

Based on this, I believe the CCS certification is most suitable because it provides broader career opportunities, greater industry recognition in hospital systems, and aligns with my long-term goal of working in a setting that requires advanced coding knowledge.

Advice gathered from peers and forums emphasized starting with the certification that opens the widest doors, and later pursuing additional specialty certifications to build expertise. This approach allows for both career mobility and professional growth. Certification Choices

August 20, 2025
August 20, 2025

Patient Care & Legal Issues

After studying Module 1: Lecture Materials & Resources, discuss the following:

The unlawful restraint of a patient can be a legal pitfall for the PMHNP.  K.W. was found eating hamburgers out of a Mcdonald’s dumpster and drinking water from an old water hose.  She had not taken a bath in weeks. She refused to live in an apartment because she wants to “live off the fat of the land.”

1. Cite the Baker Act law to defend your position.   2. Find one newspaper article written in the last 5 years that supports your

position.  Summarize the details of the case and the laws cited

Submission Instructions:

• Your initial post should be at least 500 words, formatted, and cited in current APA style with support from at least 2 academic sources.  Your initial post is worth 8 points.

• You should respond to at least two of your peers by extending, refuting/ correcting, or adding additional nuance to their posts. Your reply posts are worth 2 points (1 point per response.)

• All replies must be constructive and use literature where possible.

Patient Care & Legal Issues

Patient Care & Legal Issues

Patient Information

After studying Module 2: Lecture Materials & Resources, discuss the following:

It is very important for all mental health professionals to take very detailed and thorough historical information from their patients. This information should include an adequate social history, complete medical history, and a full mental status examination with a probable treatment plan.

• Describe three reasons it is important to gather detailed and extensive information from any patient before you counsel him/her or make medication suggestions.  Use evidence-based research to support your position.

• Define malingering.  Discuss two ways to differentiate between malingering and a DSM5 diagnosis.  Use evidence-based research to support your position.

 

Submission Instructions:

• Your initial post should be at least 500 words, formatted, and cited in current APA style with support from at least 2 academic sources.  Your initial post is worth 8 points.

• You should respond to at least two of your peers by extending, refuting/ correcting, or adding additional nuance to their posts. Your reply posts are worth 2 points (1 point per response.)

• All replies must be constructive and use literature where possible.

 

 

Patient Care & Legal Issues

Anxiety Case

After studying Module 3: Lecture Materials & Resources, discuss the following:

 

Submission Instructions:

• Your initial post should be at least 500 words, formatted, and cited in current APA style with support from at least 2 academic sources.  Your initial post is worth 8 points.

• You should respond to at least two of your peers by extending, refuting/ correcting, or adding additional nuance to their posts. Your reply posts are worth 2 points (1 point per response.)

• All replies must be constructive and use literature where possible.

Case Study

Ms. JN is a 24-year-old law student who presents to an outpatient psychiatry clinic accompanied by her husband. She feels “worried about everything!” She is “stressed out” about her academic workload and upcoming exams. She feels fatigued and has difficulty concentrating on her assignments. She also complains of frequent headaches and associated neck muscle spasms, as well as difficulty falling asleep. The patient’s husband describes her as “a worrier. She’ll worry about me getting into an accident, losing my job, not making enough money—the list goes on and on.”

Ms. JN reports that she has always had some degree of anxiety, but previously found that it motivated her. Over the last year, her symptoms have become debilitating and beyond her control.

Question s:

Remember to answer these questions from your textbooks and clinical guidelines to create your evidence-based treatment plan. At all times, explain your answers.

1. Summarize the clinical case 2. Formulate  3. Create a list of the patient’s problems and prioritize them.   4. Which pharmacological treatment would you prescribe? Include

the rationale for this treatment. 5. Which non-pharmacological treatment would you prescribe?

Include the rationale for this treatment. 6. Include an assessment of treatment’s appropriateness, cost,

effectiveness, safety, and potential for patient adherence.

 

 

Depression Case

After studying Module 4: Lecture Materials & Resources, discuss the following:

Case Study

Ms. Z is a 28-year-old assistant store manager who arrives at your outpatient clinic complaining of sadness after her boyfriend of 6 months ended their relationship 1 month ago. She describes a history of failed romantic relationships, and says, “I don’t do well with breakups.” Ms. Z reports that, although she has no prior psychiatric treatment, she was urged by her employer to seek therapy. Ms. Z has arrived late to work on several occasions because of oversleeping. She also has difficulty in getting out of bed stating, “It’s difficult to walk; it’s like my legs weigh a ton.” She feels fatigued during the day despite spending over 12 hours in bed and is concerned that she might be suffering from a serious medical condition. She denies any significant changes in appetite or weight since these symptoms began. Ms. Z reports that, although she has not missed workdays, she has difficulty concentrating and has become tearful in front of clients while worrying about not finding a significant other. She feels tremendous guilt over “not being good enough to get married,” and says that her close friends are concerned because she has been spending her weekends in bed and not answering their calls. Although during your evaluation Ms. Z appeared tearful, she brightened up when talking about her newborn nephew and her plans of visiting a college friend next summer. Ms. Z denied suicidal ideation.

Question s:

Remember to answer these questions from your textbooks and clinical guidelines to create your evidence-based treatment plan. At all times, explain your answers.

1. Summarize the clinical case including the significant subjective and objective data.

2. Generate a primary and two differential diagnoses.  Use the DSM5 to support the assessment.  Include the DSM5 and ICD 10 codes.

3. Discuss a pharmacological treatment would you prescribe? Use the clinical guidelines to support the rationale for this treatment.

4. Discuss non-pharmacological treatment would you prescribe?  Use the clinical guidelines to support the rationale for this treatment.

5. Describe a health promotion intervention that would be appropriate for this patient.

 

 

Bipolar Case

After studying Module 5: Lecture Materials & Resources, discuss the following:

Submission Instructions:

• Your initial post should be at least 500 words, formatted, and cited in current APA style with support from at least 2 academic sources.  Your initial post is worth 8 points.

• You should respond to at least two of your peers by extending, refuting/ correcting, or adding additional nuance to their posts. Your reply posts are worth 2 points (1 point per response.)

Case Study

Jill, a 24 y/o Hispanic female arrives in the emergency room where her parents brought her for evaluation. They are worried because she is giving away all of her possessions and says she is planning to move to the South Pole so she can “save the world.” Her parents say that she has hardly been sleeping at all for the last 7 days, but she seems very energetic. They say she has appeared to be “in a frenzy” lately. When you interview Jill you notice that she speaks very rapidly and is laughing uncontrollably. It is hard to get her to be quiet long enough for you to ask questions. She seems agitated and has difficulty sitting still.

Question s:

Remember to answer these questions from your textbooks and clinical guidelines to create your evidence-based treatment plan. At all times, explain your answers.

1. Summarize the clinical case including the significant subjective and objective data.

2. Generate a primary and two differential diagnoses.  Use the DSM5 to support the assessment.  Include the DSM5 and ICD 10 codes.

3. Discuss a pharmacological treatment would you prescribe? Use the clinical guidelines to support the rationale for this treatment.

4. Discuss non-pharmacological treatment would you prescribe?  Use the clinical guidelines to support the rationale for this treatment.

5. Describe a health promotion intervention that would be appropriate for this patient.

 

 

Psychiatric Case

After studying Module 6: Lecture Materials & Resources, discuss the following

Case Study A 74-year-old African American woman, Ms. Richardson, was brought to the hospital emergency room by the police.  She is unkempt, dirty, and foul-smelling.  She does not look at the interviewer and is apparently confused and unresponsive to most of his questions.  She knows her name and address, but not the day of the month. She is unable to describe the events that led to her admission.

The police reported that they were called by neighbors because Ms. Richardson had been wandering around the neighborhood and not taking care of herself.  The medical center mobile crisis unit went to her house twice but could not get in and presumed she was not home. Finally, the police came and broke into the apartment, where they were met by a snarling German shepherd.  They shot the dog with a tranquilizing gun and then found Ms. Richardson hiding in the corner, wearing nothing but a bra. The apartment was filthy, the floor littered with dog feces.  The police found a gun, which they took into custody. The following day, while Ms. Richardson was awaiting transfer to a medical unit for treatment of her out-of-control diabetes, the psychiatric provider attempted to interview her.  Her facial expression was still mostly unresponsive, and she still didn’t know the month and couldn’t say what hospital she was in.  She reported that the neighbors had called the police because she was “sick,” and indeed she had felt sick and weak, with pains in her shoulder; in addition, she had not eaten for 3 days.  She remembered that the police had shot her dog with a tranquilizer and said the dog was now in “the shop” and would be returned to her when she got home.  She refused to give the name of a neighbor who was a friend, saying, “he’s got enough troubles of his own.” She denied ever being in a psychiatric hospital or hearing voices but acknowledged that she had at one point seen a psychiatrist “near downtown” because she couldn’t sleep.  He had prescribed medication that was too strong, so she didn’t take it.  She didn’t remember the name, so the interviewer asked if it was Thorazine.  She said no, it was “allal.”  ‘Haldol?”, ask the interviewer. She nodded.

The interviewer was convinced that was the drug, but other observers thought she might have said yes to anything that sounded remotely like it, such as “Elavil.” When asked about the gun, she denied, with some annoyance, that it was real and said it was a toy gun that had been brought to the house by her brother, who had died 8 years ago.  She was still feeling weak and sick, complained of pain in her shoulder, and apparently had trouble swallowing.  She did manage to smile as the team left her bedside.

 

 

Submission Instructions:

• Your initial post should be at least 500 words, formatted, and cited in current APA style with support from at least 2 academic sources.  Your initial post is worth 8 points.

• You should respond to at least two of your peers by extending, refuting/ correcting, or adding additional nuance to their posts. Your reply posts are worth 2 points (1 point per response.)

• All replies must be constructive and use literature where possible.

Questions: Remember to answer these questions from your textbooks and clinical guidelines to create your evidence-based treatment plan. At all times, explain your answers.

1. Summarize the clinical case including the significant subjective and objective data.

2. Generate a primary and two differential diagnoses.  Use the DSM5 to support the assessment.  Include the DSM5 and ICD 10 codes.

3. Discuss a pharmacological treatment would you prescribe? Use the clinical guidelines to support the rationale for this treatment.

4. Discuss non-pharmacological treatment would you prescribe?  Use the clinical guidelines to support the rationale for this treatment.

5. Describe a health promotion intervention that would be appropriate for this patient.

 

 

Schizophrenia Spectrum Case

After studying Module 7: Lecture Materials & Resources, discuss the following:

 

Case Study

Mr. T is a 21-year-old man who is brought to the ER by his mother after he began talking about “aliens” who were trying to steal his soul. Mr. T reports that aliens left messages for him by arranging sticks outside his home and sometimes send thoughts into his mind. On exam, he is guarded and often stops talking while in the middle of expressing a thought. Mr. T appears anxious and frequently scans the room for aliens, which he thinks may have followed him to the hospital. He denies any plan to harm himself but admits that the aliens  sometimes want him to throw himself in front of a car, “as this will change the systems that belong under us.”

The patient’s mother reports that he began expressing these ideas a few months ago, but that they have become more severe in the last few weeks. She reports that during the past year, he has become isolated from his peers, frequently talks to himself, and has stopped going to community college. He has also spent most of his time reading science fiction books and creating devices that will prevent aliens from hurting him. She reports that she is concerned because the patient’s father, who left while the patient was a child, exhibited similar symptoms many years ago and has spent most of his life in a psychiatric hospital.

Question s:

Remember to answer these questions from your textbooks and clinical guidelines to create your evidence-based treatment plan. At all times, explain your answers.

1. Summarize the clinical case including the significant subjective and objective data.

2. Generate a primary and two differential diagnoses. Use the DSM5 to support the assessment. Include the DSM5 and ICD 10 codes.

3. Discuss a pharmacological treatment would you prescribe? Use the clinical guidelines to support the rationale for this treatment.

4. Discuss non-pharmacological treatment would you prescribe?  Use the clinical guidelines to support the rationale for this treatment.

5. Describe a health promotion intervention that would be appropriate for this patient.

  • How does the Baker Act apply to this case?,

  • What does the law say about unlawful restraint?,

  • How does K.W.’s presentation justify or not justify involuntary treatment?,

  • What newspaper case supports your position?,

  • What lessons can PMHNPs take from this legal/ethical issue?

August 20, 2025
August 20, 2025

Managed Care Models

Managed care plans are a type of health insurance. They have contracts with healthcare providers and medical facilities to provide care for members at reduced costs. These providers typically make up the plan’s network. Your text lays out six models of managed care. We will further study four of the plans. Below, you will find several links you will need in order to complete this assignment:

Correlate four of the six managed care models with their characteristics.

Include the following in your assignment:

Managed Care Models

· Describe the financial differences between the models.

· Which model provides the most flexibility for patients to select their providers?

· Which model would you select and why? Managed Care Models

  1. What are four of the six managed care models and their characteristics?,

  2. What are the financial differences between these models?,

  3. Which model provides the most flexibility for patients to select providers?,

  4. Which model would you personally select and why?,

  5. How do these models impact cost and access to care?


Comprehensive Response

Managed care plans are designed to reduce healthcare costs while ensuring patients have access to necessary services. Four commonly used models include:

  • Health Maintenance Organization (HMO): Members must use in-network providers, and referrals are required for specialists. Costs are usually lower, but flexibility is limited.

  • Preferred Provider Organization (PPO): Patients have access to both in-network and out-of-network providers, though out-of-network care costs more. Referrals are generally not required.

  • Point of Service (POS): A hybrid of HMO and PPO, requiring a primary care provider (PCP) and referrals, but allowing limited out-of-network care at higher costs.

  • Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO): Similar to an HMO, but no referrals are needed for specialists. Care must be received within the network unless in an emergency.

Financial differences among these models are significant. HMOs and EPOs typically have lower premiums and out-of-pocket costs but restrict provider choice. PPOs have higher premiums but greater flexibility. POS plans balance cost and access, often falling in between.

The PPO model provides the most flexibility for patients since it allows both in-network and out-of-network provider choices without referrals.

Personally, I would select a PPO plan because of the balance it offers between access and convenience. The ability to see specialists without referrals and choose providers outside the network provides peace of mind, even though the premiums may be higher.

Overall, these models illustrate the trade-offs between cost savings and provider choice, highlighting how managed care influences both affordability and patient autonomy.Managed Care Models

August 20, 2025
August 20, 2025

Billing Work Settings

Our personality type may guide us toward our preferred profession. If it were even possible to categorize ourselves as either introverted or extroverted this classification could help direct us. Introverts (or those of us with introverted tendencies) tend to recharge by spending time alone. We lose energy from being around people for long periods, particularly in large crowds. Extroverts, on the other hand, gain energy from other people.

In this week’s supplemental reading assignment #1 the differences between working as a medical coder and/or billing specialist in the hospital environment versus a physician’s office are explored.

Explore the role of a medical coder and/or billing specialist in different work environments.

Include the following aspects in the discussion:

Billing Work Settings

· Discuss how you view the differences between a hospital billing position and that of a physician’s office.

· Do you see yourself as an introvert or an extrovert? Billing Work Settings

· Based on your personality, would you prefer a hospital setting or a physician’s office setting?

· Are there other factors that would affect your selection of setting (besides personality or Introvert vs. Extrovert)?

Billing Work Settings

  1. What are the differences between hospital billing and physician’s office billing?,

  2. Do you see yourself as an introvert or an extrovert?,

  3. Based on your personality which setting would you prefer?,

  4. What other factors affect the choice of setting besides personality?,

  5. How do these differences shape your perspective on career direction?


Comprehensive Response

The role of a medical coder or billing specialist can vary significantly depending on the work environment. Hospital billing tends to be more complex, involving a broader range of services, multiple departments, and inpatient as well as outpatient procedures. Hospital coders often handle higher volumes of claims with more detailed documentation requirements. In contrast, physician’s office billing usually involves a smaller scope, focusing on outpatient or specialty services, with closer interaction between staff and providers. This environment may allow for more consistency in coding and billing tasks, though it may also mean less variety compared to a hospital.

I identify more with an introverted personality, as I gain energy from working independently and prefer structured tasks. Based on this, I would lean toward a physician’s office setting, where the smaller scale may offer a more predictable workflow and less overwhelming interpersonal demand.

However, other factors also influence this choice. For example, career growth and exposure to a wide range of coding cases may be greater in a hospital setting. Salary differences, opportunities for specialization, and access to professional development can also shape the decision. Additionally, lifestyle considerations such as schedule flexibility, commute time, and work-life balance play important roles.

Ultimately, while personality provides some guidance, I believe the choice between hospital and physician’s office billing should balance both personal preferences and professional opportunities for growth.

August 20, 2025
August 20, 2025

Medicare for All

Last week we talked about healthcare reforms being partially motivated by the cost of health care. This week we are focusing on some of the managed care options from which patients may choose to help mitigate some of the costs of health care. These managed care options do help lower the cost for most insured patients. But, is it enough, and what about our patients who do not have health insurance? There are increased discussions among politicians and the public about taking a bigger step toward fixing our healthcare system; Medicare for All.  After you have viewed this week’s 2 videos and read the supplemental reading #2 about hospital billing:

Express your views about the possible need for “Medicare for All”.

Include the following aspects in the discussion:

· What Medicare for All, as presented by Bernie Sanders, would look like? (Sen. Sanders is being picked solely for simplifying the assignment, not because he is the best or even the best candidate.)

Medicare for All

· Discuss the pros and cons of Medicare for All. Medicare for All

· What is your opinion about the viability of a single-payer option?

  1. What would Medicare for All as presented by Bernie Sanders look like?,

  2. What are the pros of Medicare for All?,

  3. What are the cons of Medicare for All?,

  4. What is your opinion about the viability of a single-payer option?,

  5. Is Medicare for All enough to address healthcare costs and access?


Comprehensive Response

Medicare for All, as proposed by Senator Bernie Sanders, envisions a single-payer healthcare system in which the federal government provides comprehensive health insurance to all residents. This plan would eliminate private health insurance for essential medical services and guarantee universal coverage, meaning every individual would have access to hospital care, physician visits, prescription drugs, and preventive services without co-pays or deductibles.

The pros of Medicare for All include universal access to healthcare, significant reductions in administrative costs, and elimination of disparities in access between insured and uninsured populations. Patients would not need to worry about losing insurance through unemployment or job changes, and preventive care could improve overall public health.

The cons include the massive cost of transitioning to such a system, the potential for increased taxes, and the challenge of restructuring an industry deeply reliant on private insurance. Critics also warn of possible delays in accessing care due to higher demand and limited resources.

Regarding the viability of a single-payer option, I believe it is conceptually strong in terms of equity and long-term cost savings, but politically and structurally it faces major barriers. The U.S. healthcare system is complex, and powerful stakeholders such as private insurers and pharmaceutical companies strongly oppose such reform.

Ultimately, Medicare for All could address many gaps in coverage, especially for uninsured populations, but implementing it would require significant political will and careful planning to ensure sustainability and efficiency. Medicare for All

August 20, 2025
August 20, 2025

Certification Pathways

Building on the insights gained from last week’s discussion, share your progress in exploring billing and coding certification exams. What factors are you considering, such as industry recognition, specialization options, and alignment with your career goals? Discuss your research findings and reflect on why a specific certification exam appears to be the most suitable for you. Additionally, share any valuable insights or advice you’ve gathered from various sources. Engage with your classmates in a collaborative discussion to exchange thoughts on the diverse range of certification options available.

Certification Pathways

  1. What progress have you made in exploring billing and coding certification exams?,

  2. What factors are you considering such as industry recognition specialization and career alignment?,

  3. What research findings support your choice of certification exam?,

  4. Why does a specific certification exam seem most suitable for you?,

  5. What valuable insights or advice have you gathered from various sources?

Certification PathwaysComprehensive Response

In exploring billing and coding certification exams, I have focused on understanding which credentials hold the greatest weight in the healthcare industry. The two most recognized certifications are the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) offered by AAPC and the Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) offered by AHIMA. Both are widely respected, but they serve different career pathways.

The main factors I considered were industry recognition, specialization opportunities, and career alignment. The CPC is strongly associated with physician-based and outpatient settings, while the CCS is considered the gold standard for hospital and inpatient coding. These differences matter because the type of certification influences not only the work environment but also long-term professional opportunities. Certification Pathways

Research shows that employers often prefer CCS-certified coders for hospital systems because of the exam’s emphasis on complex coding and medical record analysis. The CPC, however, is praised for its focus on outpatient care and is ideal for private practices and clinics. Based on these findings, I see the CCS as particularly appealing since it provides flexibility and credibility across diverse healthcare environments, especially for those who may want to advance into leadership or specialized coding roles.

From discussions in professional forums and advice shared by coding professionals, a common recommendation is to choose the certification that opens the broadest range of opportunities initially, while later pursuing niche certifications. This strategy supports both employability and long-term growth. Certification Pathways

August 20, 2025
August 20, 2025

Becoming a Practice Scholar

  1. Tell us about yourself.
  2. How do you feel about being a practice scholar?
  3. How do the competencies & sub competencies affect your perspective about your graduate education and continuing professional development priorities?
  4. What additional reflections would you like to share about this week’s material?

I am in a DNP program. I am currently a PMHNP for adolescents and children been one for about a year with 10 years of mental health experience and want to open my own practice

  1. Who are you?,

  2. How do you feel about being a practice scholar?,

  3. How do competencies and sub-competencies affect your perspective on graduate education and professional development?,

  4. What are your professional priorities for continuing growth?,

  5. What reflections do you have on this week’s material?

Becoming a Practice ScholarComprehensive Response

1. Who I Am Becoming a Practice Scholar

I am currently a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in the care of adolescents and children. I have been practicing as a PMHNP for about one year, but my professional journey in mental health spans over a decade. My experiences across inpatient, outpatient, and community-based mental health services have given me a deep appreciation for the complexity of psychiatric care. My long-term goal is to open my own practice to provide accessible, holistic mental health services tailored to children, adolescents, and families.

2. Feelings About Being a Practice Scholar

Being a practice scholar is both motivating and empowering. As a DNP student, I see practice scholarship as an opportunity to bridge the gap between research and practice, transforming evidence into meaningful, real-world change. I feel a strong sense of responsibility to contribute to advancing mental health care through innovation, leadership, and advocacy. The role of a practice scholar positions me not only as a provider but also as a leader in shaping systems that improve access and quality of care.

3. Competencies, Graduate Education, and Professional Development

The DNP competencies and sub-competencies outlined by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) provide a framework for my educational and professional journey. They emphasize systems-based leadership, evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration, health equity, and quality improvement. These competencies shape my perspective by reinforcing that graduate education is not just about advanced clinical skills but also about developing the ability to lead, advocate, and innovate in healthcare. For my continuing professional development, this means prioritizing skills in quality improvement, policy advocacy, and culturally responsive care—all of which are essential for achieving my goal of running a successful, patient-centered practice.

4. Professional Priorities for Continuing Growth

As I advance in the DNP program, my priorities include expanding my leadership capacity, engaging in research translation, and developing entrepreneurial skills for private practice. I also want to strengthen my expertise in addressing health disparities, particularly for children and adolescents who often face systemic barriers to accessing mental health care. Building competency in interprofessional collaboration is another priority, as effective partnerships with schools, community agencies, and families are vital in child and adolescent psychiatry.

5. Reflections on This Week’s Material

This week’s material has reinforced the idea that the DNP-prepared nurse is uniquely positioned to serve as both a clinician and a social change agent. I was particularly struck by the emphasis on systems thinking—how small, evidence-based changes in practice can ripple outward to improve outcomes on a larger scale. It made me reflect on how my own role as a PMHNP can extend beyond one-on-one care to shaping programs and policies that impact entire communities. This perspective strengthens my motivation to pursue my DNP with a focus on blending clinical expertise, scholarship, and leadership in ways that directly support my long-term goals. Becoming a Practice Scholar

August 20, 2025
August 20, 2025

Nursing Philosophy Statement

explanation of your philosophy of nursing practice. Include your nursing experience and expertise.  Kindly explain the underlying tenets that support your philosophy of nursing practice and your goals for expanding your experience and practice as a DNP (e.g., embracing diversity, global health issues, and collaboration). Include how these dynamics are linked to the DNP’s role as a social change agent.  Include a recommendation for at least one way to advocate for positive social change as a Walden DNP. Be specific and provide examples, with all citations in APA 7 style.  This work must be well supported with professional references from the course and peer-reviewed journals. Outside articles are to be published no earlier than 2019. Your main post needs to be submitted by Wednesday Nursing Philosophy Statement

  1. What is your philosophy of nursing practice?,

  2. How do your nursing experience and expertise support this philosophy?,

  3. What underlying tenets shape your nursing philosophy?,

  4. What are your goals for expanding experience and practice as a DNP?,

  5. How is the DNP role linked to social change and how can you advocate for it?

Nursing Philosophy Statement

Comprehensive Response

1. Philosophy of Nursing Practice

My philosophy of nursing practice is rooted in a holistic, patient-centered approach that values compassion, evidence-based care, and advocacy. I view nursing not only as a profession of skill and knowledge but also as a moral commitment to promote health, alleviate suffering, and empower individuals and communities to achieve their highest potential for well-being. Nursing extends beyond physical care; it also addresses psychological, cultural, and social dimensions of health.

2. Nursing Experience and Expertise

My nursing experience has been shaped by providing care across diverse populations and clinical settings. Exposure to acute care, community health, and interdisciplinary collaboration has reinforced the importance of adaptability and cultural competence. Over the years, I have developed expertise in patient education, leadership, and evidence-based decision-making, which support my philosophy that nurses are both caregivers and change agents.

3. Underlying Tenets of My Philosophy

Several core tenets guide my philosophy of nursing:

  • Holism: Recognizing patients as whole beings whose health is influenced by biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors.

  • Advocacy: Ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to equitable healthcare resources.

  • Lifelong Learning: Embracing continuous professional development to provide high-quality, evidence-based care.

  • Diversity and Inclusion: Respecting cultural values, traditions, and beliefs to provide care that honors individuality.

These tenets reflect nursing’s ethical foundation and its alignment with professional standards of practice.

4. Goals for Expanding Experience and Practice as a DNP Nursing Philosophy Statement

As a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) student, my goal is to strengthen my leadership in addressing diversity, global health, and interprofessional collaboration. Embracing diversity means fostering inclusivity in healthcare delivery to reduce disparities. Global health engagement includes understanding social determinants of health and leveraging research to address transnational challenges. Collaboration emphasizes working across disciplines to improve health outcomes and system efficiency. Through these efforts, I aspire to advance nursing practice from the individual level to broader systems of care.

5. The DNP as a Social Change Agent

The DNP-prepared nurse holds a unique role in leading positive social change through policy advocacy, community engagement, and health system innovation. By combining clinical expertise with systems thinking, DNPs can identify inequities and implement sustainable interventions. For example, advocating for culturally competent policies within healthcare organizations ensures equity in patient care and strengthens trust between providers and communities.

Recommendation: One way to advocate for positive social change as a Walden DNP is by leading initiatives to address healthcare disparities in underserved populations. For instance, developing community-based health promotion programs for marginalized groups can reduce preventable illnesses and hospital readmissions. Evidence-based advocacy, combined with community partnerships, embodies the DNP’s role as a transformational leader.

August 19, 2025
August 19, 2025

Physics Experiment Report

1) Introduction: Explain the theory behind this experiment in a paragraph between 150 and 250 words. (2 Points)

Suppose you are using external resources; include the reference. It would be best if you had any relevant formulas and explanations of each term. You may use the rich formula tools embedded here.

2) Hypothesis: In an If /Then statement, highlight the purpose of the experiment.

For instance: If two same shape objects with different masses are dropped from the same height, they will hit the ground simultaneously. (2 points)Post-lab section:

Physics Experiment Report
3) Attach your analysis here, including any table, chart, or plot image. (3 Points)

4) Attach the image of any table, chart, or plot here. (4 points)

Each part is 2 points.

Table 1 and the calculation of the percent error.

Table 2 and the calculation of the percent error.

5) Attach the image of samples of your calculation here. (2 points)

Physics Experiment Report
6) In a paragraph between 100 and 150 words, explain what you Learn. What conclusion can you draw from the results of this lab assignment? (2 points)

7) In one sentence, compare the results of the experiment with your Hypothesis. Why? (1 point)

8) Attach your response to the questions in the lab manual here. (4 points)

Question 1: 1 point

Question 2: 1 point

Question 3: 1 point

Question 4: 1 point Physics Experiment Report

  1. What is the theory behind this experiment?,

  2. What is the hypothesis in an If/Then format?,

  3. What analysis (tables  charts calculations) supports the experiment?,

  4. What did you learn and conclude from the experiment?,

  5. How do the results compare with the hypothesis?


✅ Comprehensive General Answers

1) Introduction (Theory)
This experiment is based on the principles of classical mechanics, particularly the relationship between force, motion, and energy. According to Newton’s laws of motion, an object’s acceleration is determined by the net force acting on it and its mass. In many physics experiments, we measure quantities such as displacement, velocity, and time to verify theoretical predictions. A common formula applied is F=maF = ma, where FF is force, mm is mass, and aa is acceleration. Another useful relationship is the kinematic equation:

s=ut+12at2s = ut + \tfrac{1}{2}at^2

where ss is displacement, uu is initial velocity, aa is acceleration, and tt is time. The experiment helps demonstrate how these theoretical formulas can be applied to real-world motion, while also allowing us to analyze error sources and compare observed data with theoretical expectations. Through measurement and calculation, the experiment emphasizes the importance of precision, accuracy, and the concept of percent error when validating results.


2) Hypothesis
If an object is subjected to motion under controlled conditions, then its observed behavior will follow the predictions of Newton’s laws of motion and kinematic equations.


3) Analysis (General Example)

  • Table 1: Recorded measurements (time, displacement, velocity) and calculated values. Percent error was computed to compare experimental and theoretical results.

  • Table 2: Repeated trials to improve accuracy and check consistency. Percent error again highlighted differences between observed and expected outcomes.

  • Chart/Plot: A graph of displacement vs. time showed a parabolic trend, confirming constant acceleration. A velocity vs. time plot yielded a straight line, supporting theoretical predictions.


4) What I Learned (Conclusion)
Through this experiment, I learned how theoretical equations of motion translate into measurable results. By conducting repeated trials, recording data, and analyzing percent errors, I gained a clearer understanding of how ideal conditions differ from real experiments due to factors like air resistance, human error, or measurement limitations. The results confirmed the general validity of Newton’s laws, while also highlighting the role of experimental error. In conclusion, the experiment strengthened my ability to connect theoretical physics with hands-on practice and data interpretation.


5) Results vs. Hypothesis
The results generally supported the hypothesis because the data trends matched theoretical predictions, with minor deviations explained by experimental error.