Nursing Fundamentals

Reviewed by Jessica Dwork, Nursing Faculty, Glendale Community College on 3/23/25

Comprehensiveness rating: 5 see less

The book covers a wide range of topics, including the very foundations of nursing to briefly touching on disease process of numerous body systems, ensuring that readers gain a well-rounded understanding. It is very similar to other fundamental of nursing textbooks and has a consistent layout. Each chapter gives a thorough explanation of the content in a reader friendly manner. The content is organized and simplified in a way that makes it easy to understand and apply. Each chapter is set up the same, with an overview, followed by the content, and ends with learning activities and a glossary of key terms. One thing I really like about the book is that it offers the reader opportunities to apply the knowledge with brief knowledge checks and "putting it all together" activities, which deepen understanding, enhancing its relevance to professional practice. The book also links to various OER textbooks to enhance or build on the content covered in this book. Overall, Nursing Fundamentals is a comprehensive resource that effectively covers foundations of nursing with clarity and depth.

Content Accuracy rating: 5

The content in the book is referenced throughout and includes a reference list. The inclusion of citations and references allows readers to verify the information, reinforcing its credibility. The authors reference credible sources, including peer reviewed journals, other textbooks, and government sources such as WHO and the CDC, which further ensures that the information presented is trustworthy. Readers can click on links to read additional information on various government websites or journal articles. The content is up to date and based on the most current standards of nursing practice.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 5

One of the strengths of this textbook is its relevance to the fundamentals of nursing course that I teach. The content aligns well with current curriculum requirements of my institution, making it a valuable resource for myself and my students. The textbook includes NCLEX Next Generation-style questions that allow the reader to practice these types of questions in preparation for the NCLEX. The textbook is written in a way that any necessary updates will be very simple to implement. The fact that you can make real time updates is something that printed textbooks or textbooks that can not be altered do not offer.

Clarity rating: 5

The textbook is well-organized, with a content area on the left hand side that has various chapters that guide the reader through an introduction, concepts related to the topic, and ends with real world activities that ties that concepts from the chapter together. Each chapter has step-by-step explanations and diagrams or tables, which makes it a perfect tool for learners at different levels. I really like how the chapters are concise and provide the most important information for each topic. In chapters where there is a more complex topic, there is a summary which helps clarify and reinforce the content.

Consistency rating: 5

The authors use consistent explanations and terminology throughout the textbook and across the various chapters. The book maintains uniform formatting with the step-by-step explanations of content, summaries at the end of complex chapters, and diagrams or tables to focus the learner. There are real-world examples, links to additional information, and simple conceptual explanations makes this book an easy read. This consistency makes it easier for learners to follow the material without confusion and encourages the learner to build a strong foundation for future semesters.

Modularity rating: 5

The structure of the modules or chapter readings are divided into smaller, focused reading sections. For example, the nursing process module contains subheadings, including an introduction, individual sections on each of the steps, a summary of the chapter which puts it all together, and concludes with application level learning activities. The chapter division and focused sections allows for the faculty to assign specific sections or focus students attention to a section without overwhelming them. This type of book structure allows faculty to adapt the readings to meet the course objectives and learner needs. The fact that you can utilize only portions of the chapter or revise sections makes it easy to integrate the text into a course without disrupting the overall flow.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

The book is organized in a very organized with a logical progression that guides readers from foundational concepts to some more advanced topics. Each module or chapter reading is listed and the reader can expand the section to see the available subheadings. Each consists of the topic heading, an introduction followed but the subheadings which are focused readings on the content. The reader can apply their knowledge at the end of each reading section by completing "putting it all together" activities, which deepen understanding, enhancing its relevance to professional practice.

Interface rating: 5

The text is free of significant interface issues, the text is easily navigated, charts and images appear as intended, and features work without interruption, which decreases reader confusion. The readers can move from one section to another with minimal effort making for a seamless reading experience. When the reader clicks on an external link or another OER textbook reference, a new tab opens maintaining their place in the current textbook. This ensures a smooth and user-friendly experience when using a variety of platforms or devices. The reader can access this book on different sized screens, making it accessible for students using desktops, tablets, or mobile devices.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

The textbook contains no significant grammatical errors. The correct usage of grammar, punctuation, and phrasing make for increased readability and supports the validity of the textbook. In addition, the textbook is peer reviewed and any errors can be easily updated. The faculty can make real time updates to the textbook when integrating it into their course.

Cultural Relevance rating: 5

The textbook makes a conscious effort to use correct terminology, examples, case studies, and references that include a variety of races, ethnicities, and backgrounds. This helps the reader to feel represented and more connected to the readings. There is a chapter section specifically focused on culturally diverse patient populations. In that sections there are subheadings that focus on basic diversity concepts, health disparities, providing culturally sensitive and responsive care, performing cultural assessments, and supplemental videos and activities that focus on cultural diversity in nursing. The chapter on culturally diverse patient populations concludes with a few patient case scenarios focusing on a diverse client and their needs.

Comments

The Nursing Fundamentals OER textbook is a highly relevant, adaptable, comprehensive, and well-structured up to date OER textbook that serves as an excellent resource for students and faculty who teach a Fundamentals of Nursing course.

Reviewed by Sophan Theam, Assistant Professor, North Shore Community College on 5/25/24

Comprehensiveness rating: 5 see less

The Nursing Fundamentals OER surprisingly has every component and topic that is covered in the current textbook used at my college which students are required to purchase. Not only does it cover all of the necessary subjects related to Nursing Fundamentals, but it also elaborates on application of the nursing process within each component.

Content Accuracy rating: 5

The information is accurate and reflective on what is lectured in Nursing Fundamentals.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 5

I was impressed about the learning activity at the end of the chapters which had very relevant and practical case studies and Q&A's.

Clarity rating: 5

The information is portrayed in very clear and concise formatting including tables and images. Links to additional resources within the text were also easy to navigate.

Consistency rating: 5

The formatting was very consistent and clearly portrayed. Ease of reading and consistent framework are evident throughout the OER.

Modularity rating: 5

Modules are clearly labeled and defined which would make assignments clear and easy for students.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

Topics and modules within the index are easy to navigate to and organized in a very simple format. It is easy to click and read topics chosen.

Interface rating: 5

I did not come across any broken links or disruptions throughout the OER.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

There were no issues with grammar or punctuation throughout the OER.

Cultural Relevance rating: 5

There was an entire chapter on Cultural Competency which is a significant subject in nursing. Spirituality was also referenced and is a large topic to cover.

Comments

Overall, this OER was impressive. I didn't expect much prior to reviewing it but once I did, I can see the benefits of using this OER for my course.

Reviewed by Jennifer Riggs, Professional Specialist, Saint Mary's College on 12/12/23

Comprehensiveness rating: 4 see less

The book covers a large amount of relevant content and nearly all of the theory content that I typically cover in my fundamentals course. It does not, however, cover the nursing skills that I review in lecture and that students practice in the lab portion of the course. Yet, the same editors (Ernstmeyer & Christman) also provide a separate OER entitled Nursing Skills which covers everything that Nursing Fundamentals does not. So, I have named both books (Nursing Fundamentals AND Nursing Skills) as required resources for the course. Nursing Skills contains the skill checklists and videos, as well as sample documentation, that are associated with the theory content. One topic not covered in Nursing Fundamentals is medication administration.
For the 2-3 weeks that we spend on this topic, students will use primarily the Nursing Skills OER.

Additionally, in the past, students have purchased a textbook package that also includes digital quizzing and virtual simulations. Both Nursing Fundamentals and Nursing Skills have sections titled “Learning Activities” which include interactive case studies, quizzes and simulations that incorporate NGN NCLEX-style questions. I plan to use these activities during class. I would like to be able to assign these activities but, as far as I can tell, there is no way to view student performance and ensure that they are being completed.

Finally, LibreText ADAPT is a test bank of quiz and exam questions that faculty can draw from. It feels good to have this support, but I will continue to use the exams that I have created in the past for now. Any supplementation to the course will be minor and well worth the hundreds of dollars in savings to students.

Content Accuracy rating: 5

Content is accurate and aligns with what is being taught in nursing fundamentals courses. The material perfectly compliments my lecture PowerPoints as they are. I will not need to change anything and can simply assign readings and activities from the book. I have not encountered any errors.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 5

Content is up-to-date. Sources are current and at most, only a few years old. Sources are evidence-based and reliable. They are cited at the bottom of each individual content page and are hyperlinked for easy access.

Clarity rating: 5

The text is clear and concise. The headings are helpful for organizing information and key terms are bolded. The presentation is visually appealing and easy to understand. The pages are easy to navigate. I believe that students will appreciate the simplicity and clarity of the pages.

Consistency rating: 5

Each book section and page is formatted in the same way. Students will know what to expect as they access each new chapter. Quality and quantity of information is also consistent across the book.

Modularity rating: 5

This is my favorite feature of this book. I believe that students will greatly appreciate and benefit from the concise reading sections. It seems to me that this generation of students does not like to read and that that they do not learn best by reading. Yet, they need and want a place where they can go for clarification or an alternate explanation of a topic. With the short readings, they can find answers to their questions quickly. Also, the pictures and video links are visually appealing and attractive to students. Additionally, I like how I can easily link relevant sections and assignments directly in the syllabus, course calendar and online learning platform. I can have the confidence that students are getting reliable information and students can directly access information in a way that better agrees with their preferred learning style.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

Each chapter begins with an introduction and then presents related topics in a logical order. Chapters contain 6-12 topics, and topics are appropriately separated. The last section in each chapter is titled “Putting it all Together” and includes a relevant patient scenario and application of the nursing process.

Interface rating: 5

I have not experienced any interface issues in the several months that I have been using this book. LibreText provides options for "Readability." Students can adjust text and margin size, as well as color gradients that allow for ease and efficiency of reading. There is also a "Reader Mode" that eliminates the website navigation information and decreases distractions while reading. Additionally, there is a scientific calculator in the "Tools" section. This is helpful for this course, because students must often complete medication math problems. I like the accessibility options included in this program.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

I have not noticed any grammatical errors.

Cultural Relevance rating: 5

The end-of-chapter patient scenarios include a variety of patient types. Chapter 3 is titled ‘Diverse Patients’ and includes information on health disparities as well as how to perform an appropriate cultural assessment and provide culturally competent care. Additionally, the content can be translated into 133 different languages with Google Translate. In some cases, Google Translate can use “conversation mode” to provide an audio version of the content.

Comments

In addition to being able to access a free digital copy of the book, students can also download a FREE pdf version of this book and/or purchase a copy of the book at the following prices: Paperback: Grayscale ($40.47) Full Color ($55.48); Hardcover: Grayscale ($50.70) Full Color ($65.78).

LibreText offers the following tips for working with a PDF:
“Encourage students to use a program like Adobe Reader, iBooks, or Notability to download, read, and annotate the PDF. These tools allow for highlighting, commenting, bookmarking, etc, that will make interacting with the file easier than reading it in the web browser. Here is a list of 15 free PDF readers Links to an external site.(though not all of them support highlighting and annotating). This resource from Reed CollegeLinks to an external site. It provides helpful tips for using Adobe Reader and Preview for Mac. Students can use Ctrl-F (the command for "find"), which helps find a particular point in a long PDF document.”

Reviewed by Eileen Weatherby, Nursing Instructor (PhD, MS, MBA, CNE), Normandale Community College on 5/20/23

Comprehensiveness rating: 4 see less

Overall, the book covers topics expected of nursing fundamentals textbooks. Some topics are developed very well such as therapeutic communication strategies, writing SMART outcomes, and highlighting Watson's caring theory. Other topics would benefit from futher development such as the role of the nurse as the teacher applying learning theory principles to patient education. The text does a good job introducing the challenges faced by older adults, and would benefit readers by expanding on the developmental stages of other age groups. Only cursory references are made to theorists Piaget and Erikson.

Content Accuracy rating: 5

No errors noted with the information. The authors successfully impart unbiased content with the exception of predominantly Caucasian images and models. Up to date information addresses the social determinants of health and health care disparities.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 5

The electronic nature of this textbook allows for updating ease. The use of and emphasis on nursing diagnoses seems to be waning and this topic may be one of the areas of the textbook that will require modification.

Clarity rating: 5

Sections are succinct and easily readable. The glossaries and flash cards assist with mastering common medical terminology.

Consistency rating: 5

Each section is set up similarly. The reader can anticipate the review exercises at the conclusion of each section.

Modularity rating: 5

Each unit presents small "chunks" of information appropriately. The reader is not overwhelmed with a very large section under a single heading. I antipcate that learners would be more adherent with reading assignments using this format.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

The arrangement of topics is done very well starting with a "big picture" of the nursing profession then gradually narrowing down to very specific topics.

Interface rating: 5

The electronic version worked well for jumping from link to link. Some images had such high definition that every pore and blackhead was visible on the model's face. The learning activities also worked well. The pdf version contains many blank pages and more effort is required of the reader to try the links and explore the learning activities.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

No grammar errors encountered.

Cultural Relevance rating: 4

The proportion of images and models that represent people of color is small. This could be shored up.

Comments

Nurse educators often classify teaching content as, "Need to know, nice to know, or nuts to know". This textbook exemplifies the "need to know" & has eliminated the superfluous and/or detailed content. Overall, I believe nursing students would be more likely to complete reading assignments from this textbook as it is succinct and provides activities that help solidify concepts.

Reviewed by Bailey Kuhlman, Instructor, Pittsburg State University on 1/9/23

Comprehensiveness rating: 5 see less

The comprehensiveness of the text is sufficient. It includes all subjects our current text has. A benefit of the text is the instructor resources being readily available. Particularly, the NextGen instructor resources will be helpful.

Content Accuracy rating: 5

The book is accurate and up to date with EBP.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 5

The texts longevity and relevance are beneficial to the subject of nursing fundamentals.

Clarity rating: 5

The text is clear and concise.

Consistency rating: 5

The text is consistent with EBP.

Modularity rating: 5

The setup is beneficial to the user.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

The organization of the text is easy to follow.

Interface rating: 5

Easy to follow and no problems experienced with technology.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

No grammatical errors discovered in the text.

Cultural Relevance rating: 5

No cultural insensitivities were found.

Comments

This is a great text for nursing fundamentals students. The readily available instructor resources are a plus, especially when helping students prepare for NextGen. The online text is user friendly and up to date with EBP. There is no cost to the student which is a massive benefit.

Reviewed by Carol Blanchard, Instructor, North Shore Community College on 11/9/22

Comprehensiveness rating: 5 see less

This text covers all the subjects of our current text with the additional easily available instructor resources. The topics were covered well and included activities that were very well laid out, including relevant case studies that will help with our Next Generation questions.

Content Accuracy rating: 4

The book is accurate and covers all of the most updated evidenced based best practices.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 4

Because of this format, updates are easy to add, a real plus for Nursing and it's frequent updates.

Clarity rating: 5

Although the text is sometimes dry, it is very clear and understandable to a student.

Consistency rating: 5

The framework and terminology within the text is consistent.

Modularity rating: 5

The Module setup is very user friendly, and easy to access.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

The topics are organized in such a way that is consistent with how most schools approach Nursing Fundamentals as a course.

Interface rating: 5

No problems were encountered with navigating throughout the text. The charts and activities were clear as well as the instructor resources and answer keys.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

No grammatical errors were encountered.

Cultural Relevance rating: 4

No cultural insensitivities were found.

Comments

This text is an excellent resource for Nursing students. The many activities and resources woven within each chapter makes this an excellent products for all types of learners. Additionally, because Nursing texts are often updated to reflect best practices, an online text is much easier to update with little to no expense for the student.

Reviewed by Bonnie Wilkinson, Primary Faculty, Nursing Assistant, Clackamas Community College on 12/29/21

Comprehensiveness rating: 5 see less

Great introductory exploration of concepts and topics germane to nursing students. Can be adapted to meet the needs for education of nursing assistants as well as those pursuing practical/vocational licensure or registered nurse

Content Accuracy rating: 5

Includes multiple recent and relevant sources with the ability to review or further explore the resources.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 5

Includes links to resources that are frequently updated, rather than including the current standard at the time of publication which may change over time.

Clarity rating: 5

Written to meet the needs of a student unfamiliar with the subject with multiple clarifications of terms that can be referenced directly in the text. Each chapter included a glossary at the conclusion, which could be accessed prior to reading the subchapters if desired. Chapters divided into digestible sections that build upon the previous subchapter.

Consistency rating: 5

Each chapter arranged in a consistent pattern. Includes a summary subchapter as well as glossary of terms covered in the chapter. Each chapter has a learning assessment which includes critical thinking scenarios, flashcards with information, and an interactive quiz with immediate feedback function.

Modularity rating: 5

Chapters divided into digestible sections that build into a cohesive overview of the subject. Works well with supplemental texts by same group on Nursing Skills and Pharmacology.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

Information presented from a global perspective followed by specific information and a summary section in each chapter. Chapters arranged with foundational information (scope of practice, communication, diverse populations, nursing process) at the beginning, followed by more specific subject areas.

Interface rating: 5

Links embedded in the text upload smoothly and images and charts placed in appropriate places to accent the subject being discussed. Additional information can be accessed easily by either clicking on the web addresses of the references or imbedded in boxes within the section

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

Clear and inclusive text

Cultural Relevance rating: 5

Full section on cultural issues plus references throughout the rest of the text

Comments

The authors have allowed access to further modify the publication to meet the needs of individuals pursuing nursing education outside the Wisconsin area. It is available for purchase in a print format, as referenced data showed students prefer a print text over 50% of the time. Has a companion publications for nursing skills and pharmacology.

Reviewed by Janelle Patterson, Professor of Nursing, Des Moines Area Community College on 11/23/21

Comprehensiveness rating: 5 see less

Includes all topics covered in our fundamentals nursing curriculum. The two topics not included in detail in this textbook are nursing skills and nursing assessments, but these resources are included via hyperlinks to other texts covering this content within this fundamentals textbook.

Content Accuracy rating: 5

The text contains accurate photos, tables, and figures to help visual learners and depict current equipment.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 4

Most fundamental topics are straightforward and universal. Some content that may be outdated are the NANDA-I diagnoses since these are no longer included on the NCLEX-RN. Nursing problems terminology have now replaced NANDA-I.

Clarity rating: 5

There is a glossary included at the end of each chapter to review unfamiliar bold-faced terms within the text. This book is written at a nursing fundamentals student level. Nursing interventions are explained in simple terms and include photos and tables to depict details further.

Consistency rating: 5

Each chapter follows the same sequence (nursing process) and ends with application exercises including "Putting it all Together" and "Learning Activities."

Modularity rating: 5

Text is very organized, predictable, and divisible.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

Text is very organized, systematic, and logical.

Interface rating: 5

Excellent and thorough use of hyperlinks to additional references, evidence-based practice, national organizations, assessment steps, and skill steps.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

Minimal grammatical errors

Cultural Relevance rating: 5

A variety of examples are included.

Reviewed by Tabatha Morgan, Assistant Professor, Emporia State University on 11/2/21

Comprehensiveness rating: 3 see less

There were some errors noted within the context. There are also many blank pages between information and the labeling for the tables are on separate pages, which may be very confusing to a reader.

Content Accuracy rating: 3

There was some information that could be correct, such as the ISBARR examples. I believe the information listed under the situation, background, and assessment needs to be under the correct title. In the nursing diagnosis examples, there is conflicting information regarding the risk for nursing diagnosis. When it's potential, there are two parts of the nursing diagnosis: the problem and the related factors due to there is no evidence since it has not happened. The text states to include the problem and as evidence for a risk for diagnosis. When also stating if a goal has been met with evaluating a patient for their plan of care, it's best to list it as "Goal met, Goal partially met, or Goal met." The mnemonic for pain is "OLD CARTS," not "OLDCARTES," which I had looked up within other resources to see if there is an update, and every resource I found still states "OLD CARTS."

Relevance/Longevity rating: 3

The accuracy of the information that is stated needs to be updated in areas. Please review the information listed under accuracy.

Clarity rating: 5

Information is clear and explained in layman's terms.

Consistency rating: 3

Please refer to the comment under accuracy.

Modularity rating: 4

There are many blank pages noted between each section of information while reading the information.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 3

The information flows well, except there are many blank pages noted between each information section while reading the information.

Interface rating: 3

The labeling for the tables doesn't always go with the information, and we cannot view some information. For example, in table 3.2b, part of the table is cut off over cultural concepts and cannot view information. Now, if this is a hard copy, some of the links would not be clicked on, making this textbook an ebook only.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

No grammatical errors noted.

Cultural Relevance rating: 5

This textbook was not insensitive or offensive in any way to any culture.

Comments

By reviewing the textbook and changing the information provided, I believe this would be a great textbook. This textbook appears to be more at an Associate degree level for nursing students than a Bachelor in Science of Nursing degree.