COMMUNITY COLLEGE OF BEAVER COUNTY NURSING PROGRAM The faculty welcomes you as a nursing student at Community College of Beaver County in Monaca and Canonsburg, PA. You have been carefully screened for acceptance into a challenging program which leads to an associate degree in nursing. The nursing profession requires dedication and commitment. It offers varied opportunities to competent and responsible persons. Although the College is committed to the success of the student, as well as the success of the program, it must be clearly stated that acceptance into the nursing program does not guarantee successful completion of the program for all students. The College does reserve the right to dismiss nursing students who fail to comply to College rules and regulations while on campus and at clinical sites, as well as to the rules and regulations agreed to by the College and clinical institutions, applicable to the College nursing students at such sites. This handbook contains information that is pertinent to the nursing program and supplements information provided in the college catalog. These two resources provide helpful information concerning general policies and specific information related to the nursing program. Keep them both readily available for reference. Best wishes.
THE NURSING FACULTY Elaine Strouss, Dean, School of Nursing and Allied Health Angela Albanese Pamela Byers Ladonna Dmitsak Kimberly Etzel Sally Fitzgerald Tina Gallup Stephanie Grode Kathy Hinchberger Amy Parish Maria Sapienza Debra Schepis Beth Walker Jeanette Yorns Danielle Zatchey
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
NURSING LAB INSTRUCTOR
Gina Rosatone
Nancy Hyland
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
Nursing Philosophy
4, 5
Purpose/Learning Outcomes – Associate Degree Nursing
6
Nursing Curriculum
7
NURS 275/276 Rotations
8
Description of Nursing Program
9
Program Procedures A. Attendance B. Testing C. Grading D. Procedure for Late Assignments E. Hesi Testing and Remediation F. Withdrawal from Program G. Re-Entry to Nursing Program H. General I. Dress Code – Uniform - General Dress Code for Psychiatric Clinical – Female/Male Dress Code for Pinning Ceremony J. Substance Abuse K. Employment
11 11,12 12,13 13 13, 14 14 14, 15, 16 17, 18 18, 19 19, 20 20 20, 21 22, 22
Student Conduct
23
Honesty Procedure
24
Social Media Procedure
25
Grade Information Procedure
27
Family Education Rights and Privacy Act
27
Equal Opportunity Statement
27
Learning Resources Center
28
Health Program
28, 29, 30, 31
Counseling Program
33
Student Organizations
34
Financial Aid
35
Medication Procedure
36, 37
Glossary
38, 39, 40, 41
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NURSING PHILOSOPHY The nursing department supports the mission of Community College of Beaver County to prepare individuals with knowledge and skills to further their education, acquire meaningful employment, and enhance the quality of their lives in the nursing profession. The goal of the nursing program is to graduate students who are prepared to engage in the art and practice of nursing. To this end, graduates develop a sound theoretical base, use critical thinking in making decisions, and are technically proficient in basic nursing skills. The faculty believes there are four main concepts relative to nursing. These include the individual, nursing, health, and environment. Each individual presents a unique composite of biological, psychological, sociocultural, and spiritual needs. The individual gives importance to these needs according to the person’s comfort level, cultural beliefs, age, sex, socioeconomic status, and religion. Nurses facilitate and assist individuals, families and groups to meet identified actual or potential health needs across the lifespan. The three primary roles describing nursing are provider of care, manager of care, and member within the discipline of nursing. The American Nurses Association Code of Ethics guides the practice of nursing. The role of provider of care is characterized by critical thinking, use of therapeutic communication, clinical competence, accountability, and caring for clients across the lifespan. The manager of care role is characterized by collaboration, organization, delegation, accountability, advocacy, and respect for others in providing care for an individual or group of clients. As a member within the discipline of nursing, the nurse practices within the ethical and legal framework of nursing and is responsible for ensuring a safe standard of nursing practice. In addition, the nurse is committed to the pursuit of professional growth, lifelong learning, and personal development. In each of these roles, the nurse provides a holistic, culturally congruent plan of care based on clinical evidence that maintains the respect and dignity of clients from diverse populations. Cultural care is critical to meeting the complex care needs of a given person, family, or community. Health is a phenomenon that is ever changing with individuals moving between states of wellness and illness from conception to death. The perception of wellness results from the individual’s satisfaction related to well-being and quality of life, including physical, psychological, and spiritual health. Therefore, the goal of nursing is to promote positive changes that are directed toward wellness. Wellness promotion becomes the art of helping individuals, families, and communities move toward a state of optimal well-being. The client is an individual in interaction with the environment. Environment includes all of the conditions, circumstances, and influences surrounding and affecting humans. The environment continually changes and impacts each client. Education is a continuous, student-centered, interactive process that includes guided, planned, purposeful activities directed toward producing behavioural changes resulting from the utilization of knowledge and experience. Nursing education prepares graduates to practice within the established professional standards. The nursing program provides opportunities for self-directed learning and progresses from simple to complex concepts. The required academic courses provide knowledge of the biochemical and psychosocial sciences. These include English, anatomy and physiology, microbiology, human growth and development, psychology and sociology. Content throughout the curriculum assists the learner in developing a cognitive knowledge base which is applied when providing patient care. The faculty does not endorse one nursing theory. Rather, a pluralistic base of theoretical concepts and Maslow’s hierarchy of needs are identified and integrated into the nursing process in providing client care.
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The faculty believes that critical thinking and the use of evidence based practice are essential components of nursing care. Critical thinking is defined as a complex process that involves the ability to apply inductive and deductive reasoning grounded in theoretical knowledge in a variety of situations that leads to the solution of problems through a plan of action. Evidence based practice involves information literacy and the ability to identify current and reliable evidence to support clinical decision making. Practical nursing is an integral part of nursing. The graduate of the practical nursing program is prepared to provide nursing care to clients in structured health care settings under the supervision and direction of the registered professional nurse or licensed physician/ dentist. The associate degree graduate nurse is an accountable, adaptable generalist who is prepared to provide efficient, quality nursing care in diverse care settings. The Pennsylvania Nurse Practice Act defines the legal responsibilities of both the practical and registered nurse. The nursing program is designed using a career ladder approach to nursing education that provides for educational mobility based on the individual’s career goals. To this end, the program prepares its graduates to qualify to take the respective licensure exams, to function in their respective roles and to continue their formal education in pursuit of advanced degrees.
Reviewed 8/19, 8/18, 6/16, 6/15, 8/14, 7/13. 7/12, 7/11, 8/10, 8/09, 8/08, 8/06, 6/05, 8/04, 8/03, 7/02, 7/01, 7/00 Revised 6/17, 8/07
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PURPOSE The purpose of the two level nursing program is to prepare safe, competent graduates, eligible to write the National Council Licensing Examination-RN. Also, the program serves as the foundation for a baccalaureate degree in nursing. Reviewed 8/19, 8/18, 6/17, 6/16, 6/15, 8/14, 7/13, 7/12, 7/11, 8/10, 8/09, 8/07, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000 Revised 2008
LEARNING OUTCOMES – ASSOCIATE DEGREE NURSING The graduate for the associate degree nursing program, within the scope of the professional nurse practice act, will be able to: practice the role of the professional nurse within the ethical and legal framework of nursing. provide compassionate and coordinated care based on respect for the patient’s cultural preferences, values, and needs, with recognition of the patient or designee’s right to make decisions affecting their care. utilize the nursing process in decision-making to meet the needs and resolve complex health care problems of patients and families. practice safe and competent nursing care relevant to primary, secondary and tertiary prevention to promote optimal recovery and health maintenance. utilize clinical reasoning to prioritize patient care needs and to delegate appropriately to other health care personnel. function effectively within nursing and inter-professional teams, fostering open communication, mutual trust, and shared decision-making to achieve quality patient care. demonstrate understanding of the quality improvement processes in health care systems including data collection, analysis, implementation and evaluation of quality and safety initiatives. utilize information and technology to communicate, manage knowledge, mitigate error, support decision making and promote cost efficiency. utilize resources for continuous learning to promote personal and professional development. Reviewed 8/19, 8/18, 6/17, 6/16, 7/13, 8/14, 8/10, 8/09, 8/08, 8/07, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000 Revised 6/15 7/12, 7/11
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STANDARD CURRICULUM PLAN FOR THE TWO YEAR PROGRAM FOR REGISTERED NURSES FIRST YEAR CODE
COURSE
CREDIT
Nursing I Human Anatomy & Physiology I Human Growth & Development Intro to Information Technology
7 4 3 3 17
Nursing II Human Anatomy & Physiology II General Psychology I English Composition I 17
7 4 3 3
COURSE
CREDIT
FIRST SEMESTER NURS170 BIOL201 PSYC106 CIST100 SECOND SEMESTER NURS171 BIOL202 PSYC101 WRIT101
SECOND YEAR CODE
THIRD SEMESTER (SUMMER 6 WEEKS) NURS270 BIOL215
Nursing III-ADN Microbiology
4 4 8
Nursing IV-ADN Concepts of Literature
10 3 13
Nursing V-ADN Community Health Nursing Principles of Sociology
10 2 3 15
FOURTH SEMESTER NURS275 LITR210 FIFTH SEMESTER NURS276 NURS278 SOCI101
Reviewed 8/19, 8/18, 6/17, 6/16, 6/15, 8/14, 7/13, 7/11, 8/07, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2001, 2000 Revised 7/12, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2002
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ADN PROGRAM: NURS 275-276 ROTATIONS There are six rotations during the second year of the nursing program. Dates for the rotations are distributed at the start of the fall semester. A sample of the six rotations might flow like this: 1st Rotation
2ND Rotation
3rd Rotation
4TH Rotation
5th Rotation
6th Rotation
Group A
Maternity
Peds
Critical Care
Long Term
Management
Group B
Peds
Critical Care
Long Term
Management
Group C
Critical Care
Peds
Management
Long Term
Group D
Peds
Critical Care
Management
Long Term
Group E
Mental Health Maternity
Mental Health Maternity
Mental Health Maternity
Mental Health Maternity
Peds
Critical Care
Long Term
Management
Group F
Peds
Critical Care
Long Term
Management
Group G
Critical Care
Peds
Management
Long Term
Group H
Mental Health
Mental Health Maternity
Mental Health Maternity
Mental Health Maternity
Critical Care
Management
Long Term
Peds
COURSE OBJECTIVES See separate course materials for each of the six rotations: • • • • • •
Nursing of Childbearing Family in Maternity Setting Nursing of Children in the Pediatric Setting Nursing of Adults in Critical Care Setting Nursing of Adults and Children in Mental Health Setting Nursing of Adults in Long Term Care Setting Nursing Management of Patient Care Setting
TOPICS TO BE COVERED AND LABORATORY See separate course materials for each of the six rotations. Reviewed Revised
8/18, 6/17, 6/16, 6/15, 8/14, 7/12, 7/11, 8/10, 8/09, 8/08, 8/07, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2000 2013, 2002, 2001
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DESCRIPTION OF THE NURSING PROGRAM The nursing program consists of five semesters which prepare you to function as an associate degree nurse. The ADN graduate receives an Associate Degree in Applied Science and is eligible to write the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become a Registered Nurse (RN).
CRITERIA FOR PROGRESSION IN THE NURSING PROGRAM For those applicants enrolled in the nursing program: • • • • • •
Maintenance of a Q.P.A. of 2.0 or better. Grades of “C” or greater in all courses required in the nursing program. Successful completion of 2 of the 3 specialty rotations in NURS 275 Nursing IV and NURS 276 Nursing V. Satisfactory clinical performance. Satisfactory completion of core curriculum courses. Satisfactory completion of HESI remediation.
Applicants who are Licensed Practical Nurses can receive admission and progression criteria from the Information and Registration Center, the Counseling Office, and the Nursing Office. The nursing curriculum includes general education and nursing courses. Each nursing course includes clinical laboratory experiences in hospitals and health-related agencies in the Beaver, Butler, Lawrence, Allegheny and Washington County areas. Audio-visual laboratory activities, computer assisted instruction, simulation demonstrations, skills practice in the College nursing laboratory, and small group discussions supplement the nursing content. The registered nurse participates with other members of the health team in the planning and giving of safe care in a variety of health care settings. With work experience and ongoing education, the registered nurse may develop the ability to assume responsibility for administering and/or directing care of a group of patients and possesses the foundation to pursue a baccalaureate degree in nursing. In order to complete the program, it is necessary for all program objectives to be achieved. To meet the objectives, students are required, per State Board regulation, to complete clinical hours in health care facilities for which we have affiliating agreements. Per such agreements, we must deny approval for students to deliver care if they have been convicted of certain offenses as designated in the act of April 14, 1972, known as “The Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act” and certain offenses under one or more of the provisions of Title 18 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. Therefore, individuals may not be admitted or progress in the program if the criminal history record information indicates the applicant has been convicted of any of those offenses, including but not limited to assault and/or battery, child abuse, and certain drug and alcohol convictions. A history of repeated offenses may also disqualify a candidate from admission or completion. Students/applicants will not be admitted or progress in the nursing program if they have been charged with or convicted of a felony, unless the charge was resolved at a lower level (i.e. misdemeanor). Please see the Dean of the School of Nursing and Allied Health if you have any questions. Also note that the State Board of Nursing may refuse, suspend or revoke any license in any case where the Board shall find that the applicant: • has been convicted or has pleaded guilty or entered a plea of nolo contendere or has been found guilty by a judge or jury of a felony or a crime of moral turpitude, or has received probation without verdict, disposition in lieu of trial or an Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition in the disposition of felony charges, in the courts of this Commonwealth, the United States, or any other state, territory or country; • has committed fraud or deceit in securing his or her admission to the practice of nursing or to nursing school; • is unable to practice professional nursing with reasonable skill and safety to patients by reason of mental or physical illness or condition or physiological or psychological dependence upon alcohol, hallucinogenic or narcotic drugs or other drugs which tend to impair judgment or coordination, so long as such dependence shall continue.
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For a complete list of reasons why the Board may refuse a professional nursing license to an applicant, please see section 14 of the Professional Nursing Law, 63 P.S.224. Reviewed Revised
8/18, 7/13, 7/12, 7/11, 8/09, 8/07, 2003, 2000 7/17, 6/16, 6/15, 8/14, 8/10, 2008, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2002, 2001
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PROGRAM PROCEDURES A. ATTENDANCE Student participation and attendance in scheduled class, clinical, and laboratory activities is essential to the learning process in all of the nursing and allied health programs at Community College of Beaver County. Therefore, regular attendance and punctuality is required of all students. Absence does not excuse the student from course work and the responsibility to complete assignments on time. If a student knows that a class must be missed the faculty should be notified in advance. Students are strongly encouraged to use absent days for illness and extenuating circumstances only. An excused absence will be granted only for the following situations: military deployment, jury duty, in patient hospitalization, and death of an immediate family member (spouse/domestic partner, child, grandparent, parent, or sibling). A valid excuse will be granted following receipt of a copy of the military orders, a copy of the jury summons, hospital discharge paper, or documentation associated with the death of an immediate family member. All other absences are considered unexcused. Excessive absenteeism will result in administrative withdrawal from the program. Students who are habitually absent or late for classes, clinical, AV times, or labs are disruptive to the program and may be administratively withdrawn by the Dean. Students shall be required to make up theory or clinical practice, or both, which have been cancelled due to labor disputes.
POLICY FOR CLINICAL ATTENDANCE Attendance for assigned clinical days is mandatory. Students are expected to arrive at the clinical site on time and stay for the entire scheduled time. The student is required to notify the facility and/or unit if they will be absent or late for the clinical experience prior to the designated start time. Students may not miss more than two unexcused clinical days (equivalent to 14 hours) per nursing semester. Absences in excess of two unexcused clinical days (14 hours) in a nursing semester will result in the student being unable to meet the course outcomes and dismissal from the program. A student that arrives at the clinical site 15 minutes after the designated start time will be sent home and required to make up the day. Students who miss clinical days are required to complete a clinical make up during final exams week or other time as designated. The make-up days will be arranged with the faculty, level coordinator, and dean. There is a fee assessed for the clinical makeup experience of $75 per day. Excused absences are not subject to this fee. The student will pay the make-up fee to the Cashier’s office at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled make-up day and submit the receipt of payment to the dean.
POLICY FOR LABORATORY ATTENDANCE Attendance for assigned laboratory days is mandatory and is part of the clinical experience. Students are expected to arrive on time and stay for the entire scheduled time. The student is required to notify the laboratory personnel if they will be absent or late prior to the designated start time. Students may not miss more than two unexcused laboratory days (equivalent to 10 hours) per nursing semester. Absences in excess of two unexcused laboratory days (10 hours) in a nursing semester will result in the student being unable to meet the course outcomes and dismissal from the program. Students arriving more than 15 minutes late to schedule laboratory time at the start of the day or after returning from lunch will be required to make up one half of a laboratory day (2.5 hours). Absences and related assignments must be made up within two weeks. Make up time is scheduled with laboratory personnel. Unexcused laboratory absences and late assignments will be reflected in the student’s clinical evaluation. Students who are currently enrolled in the PA Nurse Aide Registry may be exempt from select campus lab hours for Nursing I after review of lab skills with lab manager or teaching assistant.
B. TESTING POLICY
11
1.
No electronic devices (cell phones, Smartpens, Smartwatches, etc.) are permitted. All electronic devices must be turned off or silenced and stowed away in designated area.
2.
All personal items must be removed from desks. Only materials approved by the instructor, such as a calculator, are permitted to remain on the desk.
3. 4.
All personal items must be placed in an area of the classroom designated by instructor. Personal belongings may not be picked up by student until all exams are completed to avoid noise and distraction to others still taking exam. Only 2 pencils will be permitted in testing area.
5. 6.
If calculator needed, only basic calculators will be permitted. No cell phone calculator may be used. No reentry into testing area is permitted once the student leaves the room.
7.
The time allotted for the exam begins and ends at the faculty’s specified times. No extra time will be given for those students who arrive late.
8.
No hoods, hats or scarves are permitted to be worn on head except for religious purposes.
9.
Students are responsible for notifying the faculty if you will be absent for an exam. Arrangements must be made with faculty within 1 week to make up any missed exam. If follow up is not done in 1 week, a zero will be given for the exam.
10. Honesty Policy will be enforced in all testing situations. Please review Honesty Policy located in Nursing Program Student Handbook. Allegations of cheating will be submitted to the Dean of Nursing for investigation. 11. Test Review will be conducted according to professor preference. 12. No test review will be done until all make up testing is completed. 13. Grades will be posted on Blackboard within 1 week of completing the exam. 14. Grades posted on Blackboard are final. 15. All questions related to examinations must be resolved within 2 weeks of the date the exam was returned. After the 2 week period no further disputes will be accepted and test review will be closed. 16. To accommodate final examinations in the rotations of NURS 275 and NURS 276, a variation is planned in the schedule. Details with test dates are given during the course orientation. 17. Make up exams will be conducted in the Tutoring Center. Students must make appointment at the Tutoring Center for all testing. Please notify professor of your scheduled appointment time and date. 18. Missed exams must be made up before the next scheduled class. Students are responsible to contact the faculty, in advance, of the reason for missing the exam and to schedule to take make-up exam in the tutor center, located in the Library Resources Center. Faculty reserve the right to give an alternate exam. Unexcused absences will result in a five (5) percentage points deduction from the student’s exam grade. (Example: Student test score 80% - 5% deduction = 75%)
C. GRADING
12
1.
Grading Scale - All Nursing Courses: 92 – 100 A Satisfactory 83 – 91 B Theory…..Clinical 74 – 82 C 60 – 73 D Unsatisfactory Less than 60 F There will be no rounding of percentages used to determine final grades.
2.
A student must earn a grade of C or better in each course in the nursing program to continue in the program.
3.
During semesters in which a nursing course is segmented into several rotations, the final grade of the course is the average of the segments and must be 74% or better for the student to continue in the program. • The student must have a 74% or better in at least two of the three rotations to progress. • Clinically, each of the first two rotations must be rated overall as NI (Needs Improvement) or S (Satisfactory) to continue in the course. The third rotation must be rated as S (Satisfactory) overall to continue in the program or to graduate. Any student with an overall unsatisfactory rating during any rotation receives a clinical failure and is terminated from the program at that point.
4.
All questions related to the examinations must be resolved within two weeks of the date the test is returned.
5.
Cheating in any form is not tolerated. See Honesty Procedure.
6.
An overall “needs improvement” clinical performance evaluation at the end of each course of either option automatically converts to an “unsatisfactory” since there is no opportunity for remediation at this time.
7.
A student who performs unsatisfactorily in the clinical laboratory automatically fail the respective course/ rotation regardless of theory grade.
8.
Clinical failure may occur at any time in the clinical rotation as a result of a critical patient safety incident.
9.
To be eligible for graduation from the ADN program, an average of 2.0 in the major must be attained and all make up time requirements must be satisfied.
D. PROCEDURE FOR LATE ASSIGNMENTS Submitting course assignments (e.g., PassPoint, written assignments) as scheduled is required in all courses. Failure to complete work in a timely manner demonstrates a lack of professionalism and commitment to learning. Theory and laboratory assignments not submitted on the due date specified by the syllabus and/or faculty member will negatively affect the student’s grade and may result in an incomplete “I” or failing grade for the course. Additional guidelines for assignments and consequences for submission of late work will be identified by the faculty in each course syllabus.
E. HESI TESTING AND REMEDIATION 1.
All students enrolled in the nursing program are required to participate in the HESI testing and remediation program.
13
2.
HESI Exams will be administered during all nursing courses except NURS 170 Nursing I and NURS 278 Community Health Nursing.
3.
Each HESI exam conversion score will count as a percentage of the course grade and this will be described in each course syllabus.
4.
Any missed HESI exam must be made up within one week of the scheduled test date.
5.
Remediation is required following each HESI exam.
6.
Remediation requirements are correlated with the student’s performance on the exam.
50-Item Exam Score 850 or higher 800-849 750-799 700-749 650-699 649 or lower
Minimum # of Hours 2 3 4 5 6 7
100-Item Exam Score 850 or higher 800-849 750-799 700-749 650-699 649 or lower
Minimum # of Hours 3 4 5 6 7 8
150-Item Exam Score 850 or higher 800-849 750-799 700-749 650-699 649 or lower
Minimum # of Hours 4 5 6 7 8 9
Each student will receive a HESI exam report and a corresponding on-line remediation plan. Remediation completion deadlines will be provided in each course syllabus. Failure to complete remediation in the designated time frame will result in termination from the program at that point.
F. WITHDRAWAL FROM PROGRAM A student who decides to withdraw from the program must meet with the Dean of Nursing and Allied Health prior to withdrawal. All withdrawals must be processed through the Counseling Office in accordance with general College procedure. The student is responsible for returning any clinical site identification badges and parking permits to the Nursing and Allied Health office. Students are responsible for completing the withdrawal process and discussing the implications with Financial Aid in a timely manner. Failure to do so may result in failing grades and/or inability to receive refunds. Please see the refund policy for additional information.
G. RE-ENTRY TO NURSING PROGRAM GENERAL INFORMATION The number of readmissions to the Nursing Program (inclusive of all levels) is limited to a maximum of one (1) per applicant, in addition to the initial matriculation. Re-entry to the nursing program is decided on an individual basis. Placement into the nursing program will be on a SPACE AVAILABLE BASIS. Available spaces are divided equally between readmission applicants and LPN advanced placement applicants for NURS 270 Nursing III. Students out of the program for two (2) years or longer will need to reapply to the nursing program to begin in NURS 170 Nursing I.
RE-ENTRY REQUEST Students who have failed or who have withdrawn from the nursing program must meet with the Dean and submit the following documents in order to be considered for readmission:
14
1.
Submit a letter addressed to the Dean of Nursing and Allied Health requesting re-entry into (Course Number and Name) in (semester, year).
2.
Complete a Student Plan for Success form to submit with the letter to the Dean of Nursing and Allied Health. • The nursing admissions committee will review the submitted Student Plan for Success. The Plan must receive a score of 10 for the readmission request to be considered. • After review, the nursing admissions committee will send the student a letter granting provisional readmission or denying readmission.
3.
Submit official transcripts from any other colleges attended since leaving the nursing program to the CCBC Information and Registration Center.
RE-ENTRY REQUIREMENTS After the student receives a letter granting provisional re-entry to the nursing program, the student continues the procedure as follows for the appropriate point of re-entry: First Semester: 1. Students who fail or withdraw from NURS 170 Nursing I must reapply to the program. 2.
They will be ranked by nursing pre-admission examination scores with all applicants. Applicants reentering the academic year following initial admission are not required to retake the nursing preadmission examination.
3.
This reapplication will be considered the one re-entry application.
Second Semester: 1. Satisfactory completion (74% minimum score) of the comprehensive examination for NURS 170 content. (1 attempt) 2.
Satisfactory completion of clinical skill competency and medication administration testing. (Maximum 1 attempt) *
3.
Satisfactory completion of the math test for medication administration with a 100%. (Maximum 2 attempts).
Third Semester: 1. Satisfactory completion (74% minimum score) of the comprehensive examination for NURS 171 content. (1 attempt) 2.
Satisfactory completion of clinical skill competency and medication administration testing. (Maximum 1 attempt) *
3.
Satisfactory completion of the math test for medication administration with a 100%. (Maximum 2 attempts)
Fourth Semester: 1. Satisfactory completion (74% minimum score) of the comprehensive examination for NURS 270 content (1 attempt).
15
2.
Satisfactory completion of clinical skill competency and medication administration exams (Maximum 1 attempt). *
3.
Satisfactory completion of the math test for medication administration with a 100% (Maximum 2 attempts).
Fifth Semester: 1. Satisfactory completion (74% minimum score) of comprehensive exam for Nursing 275 (includes three (3) previously completed rotation specialties). (1 attempt). 2.
Satisfactory completion of clinical skill competency and medication administration testing. (Maximum 1 attempt). *
3. Satisfactory completion of the math test for medication administration with a 100 % (Maximum 2 attempts).
After acceptance into the nursing program, all program requirements must be current prior to returning to the nursing program. These include: • • • • • • •
BCLS Health Care Provider card from American Red Cross or American Heart Association Child abuse, Pennsylvania and federal criminal record clearances Complete physical examination by physician or qualified nurse clinician Two-step tuberculin skin test Tetanus vaccine within ten (10) years Repeat MMR, Varicella, and Hepatitis B titers not required if returning within one year Substance abuse drug screen
RE-ENTRY SCHEDULE: Semester Anticipated Start Date
NURS 170 (Level 1)
August
NURS 171 (Level 1) NURS 270 (Level 2) NURS 275 (Level 2) NURS 276 (Level 2) NURS 200 (Nursing Enrichment)
January May August January March
Readmit Request with Student Plan for Succcess First week of March – Readmit request & plan for success First Week of July First week of October First week of March First week of July First week of July
Student Notification
Written Exam (74% of >)
Lab Skills Testing (74% or >)
All Paperwork and Requirements
April 1
See page 1 – none
None
July
Third week of July Third week of October Third week of March Third week of July Third week of July
September
October
November
November
December
March
April
May
July
September
October
November
None
None
None
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H. GENERAL 1.
Each student represents the nursing program and the College in health care agencies. While there, he/she is expected to follow the rules and regulations of the agency. Failure to adhere to these rules and regulations may result in dismissal from the nursing program. Also, students are expected to adhere to the dress code of the CCBC nursing department while in health care agencies, as well as to behave in an appropriate professional manner.
2.
Nursing students are required to provide safe, effective, and supportive client care. In order to do this the student must be free of chemical impairment. Chemical impairment includes alcohol, over-the-counter medication, illegal drugs, prescribed medications, inhalants, and designer drugs. Please refer to the Substance Abuse Procedure.
3.
Students are not guaranteed specific days/times for lecture/clinical while in the nursing program. These may change from semester to semester. Also students may be changed from one clinical group to another clinical group prior to the start of any rotation. When a change in the clinical group is made, every attempt is made to keep the student on the same days.
4.
Students must maintain and protect patient privacy and security of patient information in accord with the HIPAA Privacy and Security Rule. In part, students are not to read patient files except in the pursuit of information for planning and implementing nursing care as assigned by a nursing faculty member. Students must sign a confidentiality agreement for the clinical area.
5.
A student is not to conduct personal visits with patients while he/she is at the clinical facility for learning purposes. Personal visits are to be carried out during visiting hours only and not while attired in the student uniform.
6.
While in health care agencies, including observational experiences, students may smoke only in areas where it is permitted for personnel. Every health care agency has a policy on smoking. By contract with CCBC, students are required to adhere to the rules and regulations of the agency and this includes rules related to smoking.
7.
While in health care agencies, students may park only in areas designated by the agency. Disciplinary actions for student violators at Heritage Valley Beaver follow the Heritage Valley Beaver Policy: • 1st offense – verbal warning • 2nd offense – written warning • 3rd offense – 1 day suspension (this will result in a fee for a make-up day) • (No parking tag on car in wrong lot = 2 offenses)
8.
Students must obtain prior written approval from the College and the hospital before publishing any material relative to the clinical fieldwork.
9.
Treatment in emergency situations arising while the student is in the clinical area is obtained in the emergency department of a hospital. All care arising from an emergency in the clinical area or on the campus is the student’s financial responsibility. The student may be sent to Employee Health during physician hours or the emergency department if appropriate. Students exposed to blood borne pathogens (needle punctures, sharps, splashes) go directly to the emergency department.
10. Students are not to receive personal calls at either the College or health agencies, except for emergencies. 11. PA criminal record, FBI fingerprint, and child abuse clearances are required for clinical experiences. The nursing student must inform the Dean of Nursing and Allied Health immediately if there is a change in the student’s criminal
17
background or child abuse history - including pending charges - while the student is enrolled in the nursing program. If changes occur during enrollment in the nursing program, the student’s situation will be re-evaluated and this may lead to termination from the nursing program. 12. No eating or drinking is permitted in computer areas. 13. Students must inform the secretary in the Nursing Office and the Student Records Office of any change in name, address, or telephone number. 14. Please review the current CCBC Student Handbook and Nursing Program Student Handbook concerning the grievance procedure, academic information, parking, tobacco free policy, and other general College policies and procedures. Your signature on the signature sheet is validation that you reviewed these documents. 15. Students must use their CCBC email accounts for all College and nursing program communication. Email messages from a personal email account are not opened or acknowledged. 16. Cell phones must remain in the silent or vibrate mode during all class and clinical hours. Active use of a cell phone during class or clinical time is strictly prohibited. This includes verbal conversations, text messages, email, etc. Cell phones may be used ONLY during scheduled breaks. Students who allow their cell phones to disrupt class may be asked to leave the classroom. Failure to comply with the cell phone policy on clinical is documented on the clinical evaluation. Failure to satisfactorily meet objectives can lead to a clinical failure. Cell phones should not be used as calculators during an exam or be present on the student desk. 17. No electronic devices may be used during clinical and clinical prep at Heritage Valley Health Systems or any other clinical facilities, except as designated by faculty. 18. Students will need to bring their own earphones/earbuds to the Nursing Skills Lab to listen to lab programs. CCBC will no longer be supplying headphones. 19. Students must have reliable transportation for clinical. 20. HVHS computer labs may be utilized by students only if the rooms are not being utilized by HVHS employees.
I. DRESS CODE A dress code has been adopted for clinical laboratory experiences for safety and sanitation reasons, for identification of nursing students, and in consideration of patients for whom they are caring and the activities they are performing in the practice of nursing. Students are expected to maintain a high standard of personal cleanliness which includes daily bathing and use of deodorant. While in uniform or scrub jacket, absolutely no gum chewing is permitted.
1. UNIFORM a.
The uniform of Community College of Beaver County nursing program must be worn at all times when the student is in the clinical lab for direct patient care. Students must not wear their uniform or other scrub attire to classes at the College. The uniform must be fresh, clean, pressed, and properly fit. It is recommended that the uniform be laundered between wearing. A white t-shirt or white turtle neck top may be worn under the uniform.
b.
When student is in the clinical lab for reasons other than direct patient care, he/she wears business casual clothing covered by a CCBC scrub jacket with his/her identification badge. No jeans, leggings, shorts,
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sweat suits, hats/caps, open-toed shoes or other inappropriate attire permitted. The hospital has the authority to deny access to patient information if the dress code is not followed. c.
Uniform pants should not fall below the instep of the shoe. White nylon hosiery or white socks and plain white or black shoes are to be worn with the uniform. Shoes are to be clean and worn only for clinical purpose. Clogs or sandals are not permitted to be worn in the clinical agencies.
2. DRESS CODE GENERAL a.
No scrub attire from specialty units may be worn to conference or when leaving the hospital. When leaving the unit, the scrubs are to be covered with a buttoned scrub jacket.
b.
An identification badge shall be worn at all times while the student is in the clinical lab. Each student is personally responsible for returning this ID badge to the instructor on exit from the program.
c.
Jewelry: Only a basic watch (no smart watch), wedding band, and a pair of small non-decorative, nondangling earrings are permitted. Gauged ears must have solid skin tone plugs. No nose, eyebrow, or tongue rings nor other facial jewelry is permitted. Visible dermal piercings are also not permitted.
d.
All tattoos must be covered; no visible tattoos are permitted.
e.
Cosmetic/Colognes: Makeup shall be complimentary to natural color and worn in moderation. Strongly scented perfumes, colognes, and aftershave may not be used — these tend to be offensive to sick persons.
f.
Nail Polish: Is not acceptable. Fingernails must not extend beyond the length of the finger and must be kept clean. No artificial nails are permitted.
g.
Hair: • Hair must be clean, neatly groomed, and away from the face. • Long hair must be neatly tied back, off the shoulders and not falling into the face during nursing activities. • Extremes in style or color are not acceptable. • Wigs may be worn; however, they must conform to the above bullet points. • Only functional, non-decorative barrettes or headbands are permitted. • Sideburns, mustaches, and beards must be neatly trimmed and clean. • Males without beards or mustaches should be clean-shaven.
h.
Uniform Accessories: • A digital watch with seconds readout or a watch with a second hand. • A pair of bandage scissors. • A ball point pen with black ink. • Personal stethoscope.
3. DRESS CODE FOR THE PSYCHIATRIC CLINICAL LABORATORY EXPERIENCE has been adopted for the reasons of safety, identification, and reflection of professionalism. FEMALE STUDENTS a. Skirt and dress length should be below the knee. b. Pants should not fall below the instep of the shoe; no jeans, no spandex or leggings. c. Skorts and walking shorts must be knee length.
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d. e.
Tops, blouses and sweaters should not be tight; should not be low cut. No neckties or scarves are permitted.
MALE STUDENTS a. Blue jeans, spandex and leggings are not permitted. b. Tops, shirt, sweaters must not be tight fitting or low cut. c. No neck ties or scarves are permitted. GENERAL a. CCBC scrub jacket needs to be available during clinical to be worn over personal clothing as faculty deem necessary. b. Shoes must be low heeled and comfortable. c. Neck jewelry and dangling earrings are not permitted. d. Hair must be clean and neatly groomed. e. Identification badges must be worn at all times. Negligence on the part of the student to maintain the above standards results in the student being asked to leave the unit to make the necessary changes and is noted on the student’s evaluation record.
4. DRESS CODE FOR THE PINNING CERMEONY Because pinning is a solemn, professional recognition ceremony, professional dress is required. A WHITE nurse’s uniform and WHITE, FLAT shoes (including plain white tennis shoes) are to be worn for this ceremony.
J. SUBSTANCE ABUSE PROCEDURE Community College of Beaver County, School of Nursing and Allied Health recognizes that the abuse of alcohol and/or controlled substances is a serious problem with legal, physical and social implications for the whole school community. As an educational institution, the school shall strive to take reasonable steps to prevent the abuse of alcohol and/or controlled substances by its students in or affecting the classroom and/or clinical setting. Community College of Beaver County, School of Nursing and Allied Health, prohibits the manufacture, use, consumption, possession and/or distribution of drugs during enrollment in any of the School of Nursing and Allied Health Programs. A student may not have alcohol in his/her system while present at or engaged in school activities off-site, on school property, or at any clinical site. With this understanding, the Community College of Beaver County, School of Nursing and Allied Health acknowledge the following: 1.
For the purpose of this policy, the term “drug(s)” shall mean (i) controlled substances which are illegal to possess, use and/or distribute under Pennsylvania or Federal law; (ii) controlled substances, which are legally obtainable under Pennsylvania and/or Federal law, but which were not legally obtained; and (iii) substances which are legal to possess or use, but which the student misused, abused or used in a manner or for a purpose other than prescribed. The term drug(s) shall include, but not be limited to: cocaine, marijuana, heroin, opiates, opioids, opium, or any derivatives thereof.
2.
Students are expected and required to report for clinical experience and class on time and in appropriate mental and physical condition.
3.
Testing • All prospective students shall be subject to drug testing prior to final acceptance into the Community College of Beaver County, School of Nursing and Allied Health, and shall assume the cost of such testing. Community College of Beaver County, School of Nursing and Allied Health reserves the right
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•
•
to withdraw any offer of admission based upon the results of such testing, or the refusal to submit to such testing. Community College of Beaver County, School of Nursing and Allied Health may require any student to submit to drug and alcohol testing upon reasonable suspicion that the student is, or appears to be, under the influence or intoxication of drugs or alcohol, or who otherwise exhibits the signs, symptoms and/or effects of drug or alcohol use, misuse or abuse; as evidenced by symptoms documented on the Observation Checklist for Suspected Impaired Student. The student shall assume the cost of such testing. Students are subject to drug testing on a random basis. The School of Nursing and Allied Health will assume the cost of random drug screening.
4.
Discipline • Students involved in violations would be referred to proper legal authorities and subject to dismissal from the program. • Any prospective student who refuses to submit to testing shall be refused admission into the School of Nursing and Allied Health. • Any prospective student testing positive for drugs or alcohol shall be refused admission into the School of Nursing and Allied Health. • Any accepted/enrolled student who refuses to submit to testing shall be subject to dismissal. • Any accepted/enrolled student testing positive for drugs or alcohol shall be subject to dismissal. • Students with drug dependency or substance abuse problems while enrolled in the Community College of Beaver County, School of Nursing and Allied Health, are encouraged to seek help in dealing with the condition. However, any student with a positive drug screen while enrolled in the Community College of Beaver County School of Nursing and Allied Health will be terminated from the education program and will not be granted re-enrollment status. • Any person attempting or knowingly and willfully altering or substituting a sample provided by that person, or another person, for testing shall be immediately dismissed from the Community College of Beaver County, School of Nursing and Allied Health.
5.
Access to the disclosure of test results and/or counseling reports: • The results of any test performed under this policy shall be treated confidentially and shall be disclosed to the proper Community College of Beaver County, School of Nursing and Allied Health personnel.
6.
As a further condition of continuing enrollment, students must abide by the terms of this policy and must report to the Dean of the School of Nursing and Allied Health, any conviction under a criminal drug statute for violations occurring during enrollment in the School of Nursing and Allied Health.
7.
Per Federal law, any student receiving financial aid will lose financial aid if convicted of a drug-related offense.
References: http://www.usccr.gov/pubs/ada/ch4.htm https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/eligibility/criminal-convictions
K. EMPLOYMENT PROCEDURE The College recognizes that part-time employment may be necessary for some students while they are enrolled in the nursing program. For patient safety, the nursing faculty recommends that students not work during the eight hours prior to reporting for clinical experience. Students may not be dismissed early from class or clinical for employment purposes.
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A student employed in the health care delivery system shall not accept those responsibilities normally assigned to a practical or registered nurse unless he/she is licensed to carry out those functions. The student shall not represent himself/herself as a nursing student in his/her employment capacity by wearing any part of the uniform of the nursing program. All students, whether employed or not, are expected to maintain satisfactory academic and clinical achievement in order to remain in the nursing program. Reviewed 8/07 Revised 8/2018, 7/2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000
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STUDENT CONDUCT Admission to Community College of Beaver County carries with it obligations in regard to personal conduct both on and off campus. Students are requested to conduct themselves as responsible adults at all times. Student members of the College are those who are registered or enrolled in any credit or non-credit course or program offered by the College. Students, whether in day or evening classes, part-time or full time, credit or non-credit, are responsible to be familiar with the rules and regulations of the College pertaining to academic affairs, social conduct and student activities which are stated in the handbook. Each student is responsible for conforming to these rules and regulations. The primary right of students is to pursue their education as long as they maintain their eligibility to remain a member of the College by meeting its academic standards, and as long as they observe the regulations, policies and procedures of the College. Students who are disruptive in the classroom and/or uncivil to faculty or other students will be removed from the classroom and may be subject to dismissal from the program. As a member of the student body, each student has all the privileges of College services and facilities. Causes for disciplinary action, procedure for the adjudication of violations of the code of student conduct, sanctions, appeals, and student grievance procedures are detailed in the CCBC student handbook. The CCBC student handbook is available on the College website. Nursing students are expected to follow the ANA Code of Ethics which states: “Respect for persons extends to all individuals with whom the nurse interacts. Nurses maintain professional, respectful, and caring relationships with colleagues and are committed to fair treatment, transparency, integrity-preserving compromise, and the best resolution of conflicts. Disregard for effects of one’s actions on others, bullying, harassment, intimidation, manipulation, threats, or violence are always morally unacceptable behaviors.� (ANA, 2015) (Code 1.5) Any individual student or group of students who fail to observe either the general standards of conduct or any specific ruling adopted by the College or who act in a manner not in the best interest of other students of the College shall be subject to disciplinary action. Reviewed Revised
2018, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2012, 2010, 8/08, 8/07, 2006, 2004, 2003, 2000 7/17, 7/13, 7/11, 2009, 2005, 2002, 2001
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HONESTY PROCEDURE Nursing students are accountable for their own behavior and learning in the classroom and clinical environment. This behavior includes courtesy, honesty, ethical actions and responsible interpersonal behavior. Academic dishonesty including but not limited to cheating on exams, assignments, papers, care plans, and presentations in any way via auditory, visual, verbal, physical or electronic means may be cause for disciplinary action up to and including dismissal from the program. This includes but is not limited to: • Use of test banks or other faculty designated materials; • Giving test questions or answers or simulation scenarios to a student in a later class; • Receiving test questions or answers or simulation scenarios from a student in a previous class; • Removing a copy of the exam from the classroom; • Submitting a paper purchased from a commercial service; • Copying a care plan in full or part previously submitted by another student; • Plagiarism; • Using electronic devices to take photos in the classroom, laboratory, simulation laboratory and clinical settings; • Falsification of records Lack of knowledge of what constitutes academic dishonesty will not serve as an excuse for the behavior. If at any time a student is unsure if a particular behavior constitutes a violation of the honesty procedure, he/she should seek guidance from faculty. To further ensure quality education and equality to all students in the Nursing and Allied Health Division programs, the following special conditions apply during all testing situations: 1.
The instructor(s) control(s) the options of seating arrangement, movement, leaving the room, and stopping an exam for violation of the honesty procedure.
2.
All books, papers, notebooks, and personal belongings are placed at a designated area before entering a testing situation.
3.
Basic calculators only may be used during tests when calculations are permitted; cell phone or PDF calculators may not be used.
4.
Any information found on/or in the immediate vicinity of the individual during a testing situation is grounds for termination of the testing of that student. A grade of zero is recorded and averaged into the final grade.
5.
Any verbal or nonverbal communication between students during a testing situation is grounds for termination of the testing of the students involved. A grade of zero is recorded and averaged into the final grade.
6.
Should a student need to communicate with the instructor he/she should remain seated and raise his/her hand.
7.
Infractions of the honesty procedure may require the student to be dismissed from the program. (Refer to Academic Dishonesty Procedure in the CCBC student handbook)
8.
All judgments as to cheating are the instructor’s right and responsibility to make. (Refer to Academic Dishonesty Procedure in the CCBC student handbook)
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9. Any student having knowledge of or permitting cheating to occur is as guilty as the student who is cheating.
Reviewed Revised
6/17, 6/16, 6/15, 8/14, 7/12, 7/11, 8/08, 8/07, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000 8/2018, 2013, 2010, 2009, 2006
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SOCIAL MEDIA PROCEDURE The Community College of Beaver County (CCBC) School of Health Sciences recognizes that email, social media sites, etc. have become important communication tools for students in today’s society. This procedure will serve to outline the acceptable practices and responsibilities in using social media while enrolled in the CCBC School of Health Sciences. The CCBC School of Health Sciences is aware of the students’ use of social media. To protect patients, clinical sites, fellow students, faculty, CCBC and the School of Health Sciences, it is the students’ responsibility to refrain from the following: • Disclosing confidential information about the school, its employees, or its students. • Using information and conducting activities that my violate the CCBC School of Health Sciences academic policies, or may violate local, state, or federal laws, and regulations. • Dissemination of any photographic, live streaming or audio content from CCBC School of Health Sciences or any clinical facility to include clinical environments, simulation, college lab, and classroom activities. • Recording and/or live steaming of faculty or fellow students in the classroom and/or clinical environment for personal or social media use. If recording and/or live streaming for a School of Health Sciences project, written permission must be granted by the faculty prior to posting on a social media outlet. • Using the computer during classroom lecture, college lab or clinical environments (including any personal electronic devices or wearable technology) for purposes other than note taking and faculty approved activities.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS • • • • • • •
At no time shall patients, consumers or any clinical environment be videotaped, audio taped, live streamed of photographed. When posting a point of view, students should neither claim nor imply that they are speaking on behalf of or representing any clinical site and/or CCBC School of Health Sciences. HIPAA guidelines must be followed at ALL times. NO information concerning patients/clinical experiences/rotations may be posted in any online forum. Students may not take a picture of any computer screen in the clinical unit, even it the information is being used for patient care/data collection purposes. Casual postings about peers, faculty, School of Health Sciences employees, or employees of any clinical site may be interpreted as incivility and/or libel and is considered unprofessional behavior. Students have sole responsibility for what is posted School of Health Sciences does not tolerate posts from students that are defamatory, harassing, threatening, libellous or inhospitable to a reasonable academic/work environment.
CCBC School of Health Sciences reserves the right to review social media to investigate student behavior. Any violation of any part of this procedure may result in academic disciplinary action up to and including dismissal from the program and denial of readmission. New: EKS 10/29/18
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GRADE INFORMATION PROCEDURE In compliance with the Buckley Amendment, the Nursing and Allied Health faculty implement the following procedure: 1. No grades are posted on bulletin boards. 2.
No grades are given over the telephone to a student or any other person under any circumstances.
3.
No indication of grade status such as pass/fail is given over the telephone to a student or any other person under any circumstances.
4. Grades are available on Blackboard to which you have password access.
Reviewed Revised
2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2010, 8/08, 8/07, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000 7/11, 2009, 2006, 2005
FAMILY EDUCATION RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT Under the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (F.E.R.P.A.), the College has designated the following student information as public or directory information. Therefore, this information may be disclosed upon request to a third party for any purpose. • • • • • • • •
Name Address Major Field of Study Dates of Attendance Degrees and Awards Received Previous Institutions Attended Participation in Officially Recognized Sports and Activities Weight and Height of Members of Athletic Teams
Students currently enrolled, however, may withhold disclosure of the above category of information under the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974. To withhold disclosure of this information, the students complete and sign the necessary forms with the Student Records Office. Reviewed Revised
8/18, 6/17, 6/16, 6/15, 8/14, 7/13. 7/12, 7/11, 8/09, 8/08, 8/07, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000 8/10
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT Community College of Beaver County is an equal opportunity education institution and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, familial status, sex, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status in its programs, activities, or employment practices as required by Title IX of the Educational Amendment of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the American With Disabilities Act of 1990, and all other applicable laws.
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For information regarding civil rights or grievance procedures, services, activities, programs and facilities which are accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities, contact the Vice President for Human Resource Development, Administrative Services Center, 724-480-3364. Reviewed Revised
8/18, 6/17, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, 8/08, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2002, 2001 2009, 8/07, 2003, 2000
LEARNING RESOURCES CENTER The Learning Resources Center (located in the upper-level of the Library Resource Center) provides tutors and individualized instruction for students in a variety of subject areas. CCBC students can tap into the tutoring services available, which include test preparation and review, expansion or review of class material, and special assistance in grammar, usage, reading speed, and comprehension. Strategies for academic success, such as note taking, time organization, and study techniques are also available. Students may schedule tutorial assistance as needed or may be referred by instructors to develop individual academic skills. A computer-assisted instruction lab is located in the Learning Resources Center. The CAI computers and software are user-friendly. The software covers a wide range of subjects which correlate, as much as possible, with the college curriculum. Students are encouraged to use the word processing program to prepare research papers. Reviewed Revised
8/18, 6/17, 6/16, 6/15, 8/14, 7/13, 7/12, 8/10, 8/09, 8/08, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000 2006, 8/07, 7/11
HEALTH PROGRAM The Health Program of the nursing department is planned and implemented to assist in achieving and maintaining the physical and mental health of students. This program is in compliance with the Rules and Regulations of the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing. The objectives for implementing the Health Program are: • to promote high level-wellness within the nursing program; • to maintain a healthful environment for the protection of students and faculty, through currency of immunizations; • to provide emergency health services as indicated in the Health Policy; • to foster the development of health awareness. Prior to beginning the nursing program, the student must have undergone, at his/her own expense, the following: 1. Complete physical examination by physician or qualified nurse clinician. 2.
Two-step tuberculin skin test. A Quantiferon-TB Gold test or Chest X-Ray may be substituted for the two-step tuberculin skin test.
3.
Rubeola, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) titers and Varicella (Chicken Pox) titer is required. A vaccine or vaccine booster is also required if titer result is non-immune, unless otherwise indicated in writing by the Health Care Provider.
4.
Current protection, within 10 years, against tetanus is required.
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5.
Hepatitis B Titer or immunization against Hepatitis B is required in consultation with physician.
6.
Substance Abuse Drug Screen.
For students continuing in the ADN program, the following must be repeated prior to beginning the fall term of the second year: 1.
Tuberculin skin test for students who are in their second continuous year in the nursing program LPN’s, advanced standing, transfer, and readmission students must meet the health requirements of “beginning students.”
Any student with an allergy to latex or suspected allergy to latex must complete a self-study module in the nursing laboratory. The completed self-study test is placed in the student’s file. Community College of Beaver County assumes no responsibility for medical treatment of its students. However, the College has made arrangements for Medic Rescue in case of serious accident of illness. In case of an emergency, contact the College’s Security Office at 724-480-3555. First aid for minor injuries can be administered. First aid kits are found in most of the buildings on campus. First aid supplies are available in the Nursing Office. Treatment in emergency situations arising while the student is in the clinical area is obtained in either Employee Health or the emergency department of the hospital. The student should carry health care insurance coverage. The cost of all care arising from an emergency occurring on campus or in the clinical area is the student’s financial responsibility. In recognition of the Surgeon General’s policy statements regarding the multiple adverse effects of cigarette smoke on the smoker, and those in the smoke filled environment, students are strongly encouraged to stop smoking. Smoking is not allowed on CCBC or clinical grounds. In order to meet the basic human need for diversion, vacation and holiday time has been built into the academic calendar. Such days are planned to maintain optimum health of the student while meeting educational requirements of the program. During each academic semester, there are at least two unassigned or free days with each calendar week. Please do not plan vacation on scheduled class dates as this will result in unexcused absences and possible administrative withdrawal from the program.
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COMMUNITY COLLEGE OF BEAVER COUNTY SCHOOL OF HEALTH SCIENCE IMMUNIZATION GUIDELINES: GOLD SHEET Immunization or Test 1. Rubeola, Mumps, and Rubella
Appropriate Evidence Evidence: Positive titers obtained no more than one year prior to entrance into the program. If equivocal or negative must provide evidence of one booster.
2. Varicella
Evidence: Positive titer obtained no more than one year prior to entrance into the program. If equivocal or negative must provide evidence of one booster.
3. Hepatitis B
Evidence: Positive titer (no limitations on date) If titer negative, dates of repeat injections and follow-up titer results must be provided. The first injection must be received before beginning the course. If all 3 injections have not been completed before entrance into program the student must sign the Hepatitis B waiver form while awaiting the additional injections.
4. Diphtheria - Tetanus Toxoid
Evidence: Date of last injection no earlier than 10 years prior to entrance into the program.
5. Two Step Tuberculin Skin Test
Evidence: Dates of administration of two tests with assessment of results. Tests must be administered at least one week apart, no more than 1 year before the start of the program. OR: QuantiFERON TB Gold test OR: A copy of the CXR report is required if other than negative results or if the provider deems it necessary. OR: Evidence of a two-step PPD in a previous year AND evidence of a one-step every year since the 2-step.
SONAH READMINSSION REQUIREMENTS • • • • •
Repeat titers not necessary if previous titers were positive and returning within one year. One-step PPD required with evidence of previous 2-step PPD. Physical exam within one year of re-entrance. PA Criminal Record, Child Abuse Clearance, and Federal (FBI fingerprint) Criminal History Report must be repeated if student does not return within one year. Drug Screen within 6 months of re-entry.
INFLUENZA VACCINE POLICY 30
Per clinical facility guidelines, annual influenza vaccinations are required at the students’ expense prior to November 30th of each year unless a clinical site requires the injection at an earlier date. Students who do not provide evidence of receiving an influenza vaccine prior to October 30th will be required to follow the clinical facility policy for staff who do not receive the injection. This may include, but is not limited to, completion of education programs and the requirement of wearing a mask upon entering the facility until departure from the facility. Please note that egg, thimerosal, and preservative-free forms of the injection are available for students who are pregnant or who have documented allergies. Students who do not comply with clinical facility policies may be unable to meet the requirements of the program. Note: It is not acceptable for students to contact Heritage Valley Employee Health for injections in January when they are made available in the fall.
SUBSTANCE ABUSE SCREENING Students in all School of Health Sciences programs will be subject to random substance abuse screenings. In additional, students entering the nursing (ADN, PN) and Radiologic Technology programs will be required to complete Substance Abuse Screenings before admission into the program. Positive screenings will result in an inability to enter the program and/or complete clinical experiences or externships which will result in failure of the program. The School of Health Sciences has entered into an agreement with ADMIT Medical Testing to complete randomized screenings. Students may also obtain pre-entrance screenings at this facility at a cost of $45. They accept cash only. Please call or email to schedule an appointment. Results will be sent directly to the Dean. (Please refer to ADMIT Medical Testing Handout) ADMIT Medical Testing 3401 Brodhead Rd Aliquippa, Pa 15001 724-770-0710 Phone Students may also obtain a substance abuse drug screen (9 panel or greater) at a physician’s office or other healthcare provider. Results must be sent from the facility directly to the Dean, Elaine Strouss at elaine.strouss@ccbc.edu or fax to 724-480-3514.
COMMUNITY COLLEGE OF BEAVER COUNTY SCHOOL OF HEALTH SCIENCE CLEARANCE GUIDELINES: GOLD SHEET Eligibility for All School of Health Sciences Programs: Criminal Record Report obtained within no more than 1 year from the beginning of the first course with no history of criminal offenses. https://epatch.state.pa.us/Home.jsp If history of criminal offense(s), the student cannot register until approval received from the Dean of Nursing and Allied Health. Students will not be admitted with any felony charge or conviction. Child Abuse Clearance Report obtained within no more than 1year from the beginning of the first course with no history of offenses: https://www.compass.state.pa.us/CWIS
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Federal (FBI) Criminal History Report (CHRI) obtained within no more than 1 year prior to entrance into the first course with no history of offenses: If history of criminal offense(s), the student cannot register until approval received from the Dean of Nursing and Allied Health. Students will not be admitted with any felony charge or conviction.
*Readmissions: Repeat clearances are required if the student does not return within one year. Revised 2/12/19 EKS, 6/16/16 SLM Revised 8/2018, 7/19/17 SLM, 3/1/17, 1/20/17 SLM
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COUNSELING PROGRAM GENERAL Counseling is one of the essential services provided for students at Community College of Beaver County. The Counseling Office is sensitive to the needs of all students and endeavors to provide services to help the student meet his/her individual needs or problems. All counseling problems are explored freely and confidentially. Counseling and guidance efforts may be initiated by either faculty or student.
SERVICES The Counseling Office can provide the following support systems: 1.
Academic Counseling – Most academic counseling occurs prior to admission into the nursing program. A review of the high school transcripts and identification of individual needs and problems with the counselor enabled students to develop an academic plan. Some students may have completed tutorial work or started course work prior to entering the nursing program, based upon individual assessment. The Orientation Day provides general information about the College. Feel free to seek further information about any of the College’s programs and services. A counselor meets with any student on academic probation and any student withdrawing from the nursing program.
2.
Academic Advising – Registration for future semesters can be handled by online or paper registration. Meeting with a faculty advisor or counselor is available as needed. The counselors also provide assistance in selection of the proper nursing option. For those planning to continue their education at a four year institution, the counselor helps in determining which courses at Community College of Beaver County best serve the bachelor’s degree being pursued.
3.
Personal Counseling – The counseling staff sees a direct relationship between personal/social problems and academic success. The counselor is available to provide personal counseling at your request or upon the recommendation of the nursing faculty. The counselor makes referrals to appropriate sources within the College or to community social agencies when assistance is beyond the scope of the College counseling program.
4.
Group Counseling – Small group workshops can be organized for students with previous limited academic success. Such sessions attempt to provide supportive reassurance and attitude improvement. Workshops can also be employed to explore issues such as values clarification, decision-making, and job placement, to list a few.
5.
Testing – As necessary, the counselor uses tests, inventories, and task-oriented exercises to provide students with opportunities to explore questions of personal potential; to enhance self-understanding and motivation; and to assist in the adjustment to college life, in general.
6.
Placement – available through the Career Services Center, which is located in the Student Services Center.
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STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS There are a number of campus organizations available to students at the College. Refer to the College Catalog and Titan Talk for specific information. Within the nursing department, there are five functioning groups: 1.
Student-Faculty Committee – A standing committee of the Nursing Faculty Organization whose purpose is to provide a means of communication between students and nursing faculty. Problems of mutual concern are to be handled by the committee. Student membership is made up of one representative elected from each section in Level I and one representative from each of the sections in Level II.
2.
Evaluation of The Total Program Committee – A standing committee of the Nursing Faculty Organization whose purpose is to provide for the systematic appraisal and analysis of each operational aspect of the nursing division of the College. Student membership includes one representative from Level I and one from Level II.
3.
Curriculum Committee – A standing committee of the Nursing Faculty Organization whose purpose is to coordinate all aspects of curriculum development for the nursing division of the College. Student membership includes one representative from Level I and one from Level II.
4.
Library Committee – A standing committee of the Nursing Faculty Organization whose purpose is to ensure that the library holdings of CCBC are appropriate and sufficient to support the needs of the nursing program. Student membership includes one representative from Level I and one from Level II.
5. Students may serve as representative to only one committee at a time.
Reviewed Revised
2018, 2017, 2012, 2011, 2010, 8/07, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2001, 2000 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2009, 2008, 2003, 2002
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FINANCIAL AID Several types of financial aid are available to students attending Community College of Beaver County. Loans, scholarships, grants, and the College work study program are specific kinds of available programs. Students requiring financial assistance should contact the Financial Aid Office in the Student Services Center. The College Catalog provides an overview of the financial aid available at the College. The Financial Aid Office telephone number is 724-480-3501. The email address is financial.aid@ccbc.edu. Reviewed Revised
8/18, 6/17, 6/16, 6/15, 8/14, 7/13, 7/12, 8/08, 8/07, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000 2011, 2010, 2009
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MEDICATION PROCEDURE 1.
A ten point Drug Calculation Proficiency Test is administered after the completion of the four units on math. A score of 100% is required to pass the examination. Students are permitted two retests on Monday and Wednesday as scheduled by the laboratory tutor. A score of 100% is required to pass the retest also. Students must be able to demonstrate remediation between retests. Failure to pass the retests results in dismissal from the nursing program since the student did not meet the course objective pertaining to medications on the NURS 170 Nursing I syllabus. Tuition refund occurs in accord with College procedure.
2.
All students entering or re-entering the nursing program any time after NURS 170 Nursing I must successfully complete the Math Proficiency test with a grade of 100% before the first scheduled class of their respective semester. Students are permitted two retests to obtain the 100% pass rate. It is the student’s responsibility to schedule this test through the nursing department.
3.
Throughout the program, the student must request supervision with the following: • Controlled substances (includes co-signature where required). • Calculate doses. • Pre-op preparation. • Intramuscular injection. • Insulin. • Anticoagulants. • I.V. medications, solutions, and additives. • Pediatric and neonatal drugs. • Other drugs at the discretion of the faculty person.
4.
All students shall be randomly checked at any time by a faculty person and if a problem is identified, the student is supervised until satisfactory performance is demonstrated. The student may be required to return to the nursing lab for supervised practice. The student may request supervision by the faculty person at any time regarding medications.
5.
I.V. Procedures • By the end of the first semester the student is able to perform a maintenance assessment of an I.V. which includes: • calculating the flow rate of an I.V. solution within two drops of the ordered rate or with 100% accuracy with infusion pumps. • verifying solution and additives. • verifying volume of solution remaining. • monitoring correct rate of solution. • adjusting solution rate with supervision. • assessing extremity. • assessing patency. • assessing for infiltration, leakage, and phlebitis. • discontinuing I.V.’s with supervision. •
By the end of the second semester, the student can complete the Nursing Skills on Initiating I.V. Therapy and Conversion of INT. The student has supervised practice in: • adding new primary solutions and/or tubing. • mixing and hanging secondary (piggy-back) medications/solutions.
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• • • •
adding medication to primary solutions. INT, Saline/Heparin lock flushes. central line flushes.
By the end of the nursing program, the student has supervised practice in administering: • I.V. push medications. • TPN. • Titrated medications.
6.
If a medication error occurs: • The clinical faculty person, nurse caring for the patient, and charge nurse should be notified immediately so that appropriate action may be taken for the patient’s welfare. • A written/electronic report of the error should be completed in accordance with hospital policy. • The staff nurse will notify the attending physician per facility policy. • The faculty person documents the medication error on the student’s clinical evaluation. • The student involved is not permitted to prepare or administer any type of medication until the faculty person involved in the course reviews the incident and decides a course of action, which may include remediation on an individual basis.
7.
Students must have prepared in advance for all medications to be given. Students must have an applicable medication resource (e.g., book, or drug cards) with them on clinical. Be advised that no electronic device may be used in the Heritage Valley Health System during clinical.
Reviewed Revised
8/18, 8/08, 8/07, 2006, 2004, 2003, 2001, 2000 7/17, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2005, 2002
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GLOSSARY A
Anti-coagulants
Drugs that decrease the clotting factor in the blood. Some people call them “blood thinners.�
Associate Degree in Nursing
A two year college degree in nursing
B
Buckley Amendment
An amendment designed to establish the rights of students to inspect and review their educational records. It also prevents the release of educational records to third parties without permission of the student. The amendment also provides guidelines for the correction of inaccurate or misleading data through formal and informal hearings.
Blood Borne Pathogens
Microorganisms carried in the blood and body fluid that are capable of infecting other people if they come in contact with the infected blood or fluid. Some examples include hepatitis and HIV.
C
Central Line Flushes
A liquid solution is pushed through a small plastic tube to keep an intravenous line open.
Clinical Evaluation Process
At the end of each nursing course, the instructor evaluates the student on overall at the clinical setting.
Computer Assisted
A program of instructional material in nursing presented on the Instruction computer; this is usually done in the nursing lab or on the nursing computers.
Confidentiality
An agreement whereby the student signs to protect the information of Agreement the client and only uses the information in the planning and giving of care.
Controlled
Usually a medication controlled by law such as narcotics (Demerol, Substance Dilaudid); the drugs should only be available by a prescription from the physician.
Critical Thinking
A reflective reasoning process that guides a nurse in solving clinical problems and giving good nursing care.
D
Deductive Reasoning
Making decisions based on general ideas.
Drug Cards
A card with information on prescription medications used in clinical practice; they must be written by the student.
E
Evidence Based
An approach to care, where professionals use research to make informed Practice clinical decisions for individual patients. The best available evidence is applied to improve the quality of nursing care.
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F
Family Education Act (FERPA)
H
A Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. The Rights and Privacy law applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the U.S. Department of Education.
Hepatitis B
A virus that infects and damages the liver. It is transmitted through contact with the blood and bodily fluids of an infected person. The virus can also be passed from mother to child during childbirth. The vaccine, given in three different injections over a period of time, is 95% effective in preventing the disease for a period of fifteen years.
HIPPA
HIPPA stands for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. The law was enacted by the U.S. Congress in 1996. It addresses the security and privacy of health data. It states that all patient information is confidential and must be kept private.
I
Inductive Reasoning
Making decisions based on gathered facts.
Infiltration
Leakage of a substance into cells, tissue or organs; often refers to leakage of fluid into the tissue surrounding where an intravenous line goes into the hand or arm.
Information Literacy
Knowing how to gather information about a subject.
INT
An extension catheter (plastic tubing) attached to the intravenous (I.V.) catheter so fluids and medicines can be given.
I.V. Medication
Intravenous (I.V.) means within a vein. I.V. medication is a means of giving medicine directly into a patient’s vein.
I.V. Push
A liquid medication that is not diluted which is given directly into the vein Medication of a patient in a slow manner.
L
Level I
Consists of the first two semesters of nursing courses in the nursing program.
Level II
Consists of the summer session and last two semesters of nursing courses in the nursing program.
M
Mantoux Test
A skin test used to identify individuals who have previously been exposed to tuberculosis (a lung disorder caused by a germ). Further tests would be necessary if the person responds positively to the test. A positive response does not mean the person has tuberculosis, only that the person was exposed to it.
MMR (Rubella/ Rubeola/Mumps Vaccine)
The deliberate administration of a substance to stimulate an immune response to German Measles, Measles and Mumps.
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Rubeola, Mumps and Rubella Titers
N
Blood tests used as a screening tool to determine whether a person is immune to rubella (German Measles) or rubeola (Measles/Mumps).
NCLEX
NCLEX stands for the National Council Licensure Examination which is a comprehensive test that must be passed before a person is eligible to be licensed as a nurse.
Nursing Process
A systematic rational method of assessing a patient then planning and providing patient care.
Nursing Philosophy
A set of values, beliefs and ideas about Nursing.
P
PA Nurse Aid
Pennsylvania state register of all those who have taken and passed a Registry written and clinical that certifies them to provide care in various health facilities as a nursing assistant on the state registry.
PA Nurse
Pennsylvania law that determines requirements to be licensed as a nurse Practice Act in this state and defines the scope of nursing practice.
Patency
Keeping something open (like an intravenous line).
Pediatric Neonatal Drugs
Medications that are used for children (pediatric) and infants (neonatal).
Phlebitis
Inflammation of a vein.
Piggyback
A secondary I.V. (intravenous) solution that connects into the first Medication intravenous solution; usually secondary or piggyback medication contains medicines such as antibiotics to treat infections.
Pinning
A celebration at the end of the nursing program. The new nurses Ceremony are presented with their nursing pins. It is a symbolic welcoming of newly graduated nurses into the nursing profession.
Placement
Generally, putting something or someone into the correct place. In this case, it refers to placing a student in a program or class that addresses the person’s unique needs and academic abilities.
Pre-op Preparation
Becoming ready for surgery.
Primary Solutions
The first intravenous solution hung that serves as the main line into an intravenous (I.V.) site; usually to introduce or replace fluids into the patient.
Professional Nursing Law
A law that states how a person is licensed as a nurse and under what circumstances that license can be suspended, reinstated or revoked.
R
Remediation
Assistance to help someone strengthen areas of weakness.
Rotations
During the second year of the program, the semester is divided into three sessions lasting five weeks each. Subjects addressed between the two semesters include Pediatrics, Obstetrics, Critical Care, Mental Health, Long /Term Care and Management. These five week sessions are called rotations. 40
S
Saline Flushes
A sterile solution of saline to keep clots from forming that is injected into an intravenous line.
Scope of Practice
The procedures, actions, and processes that a nurse is permitted to perform.
Standards of Practice
Standards are statements by which the nursing profession describes responsibilities for practice. They reflect the values and priorities of the profession.
State Board of Nursing
Government agency that establishes rules and regulations for the licensure and practice of nursing in a particular state.
T
Tetanus
A disease caused by a bacterial infection that produces a toxin (poison) producing symptoms such as muscle spasms, seizures and difficulty breathing. The disease is preventable by obtaining the Tetanus vaccine to boost the immune system to fight tetanus.
Therapeutic Relationship
Communication and rapport with a patient to help that patient become or stay healthy.
Titan Talk
A free monthly newspaper distributed by CCBC throughout the fall and spring semesters.
Titrated Medications
Medications that are required to be mixed in a solution.
TPN
TPN stands for Total Parenteral Nutrition. TPN is nutritionally adequate solution containing extra minerals, vitamins and other medicines. It is administered through an indwelling catheter (IV) to provide full nutritional requirements needed for the body when the patient is unable to eat for a long period of time.
V
Varicella Titer
Revised Reviewed New
Chicken Pox.
7/17, 2016, 2014, 2013, 2011, 2009 2018, 2015, 2012, 2010 2008
41
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