201 W. University Odessa, Texas LICENSED VOCATIONAL NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK

Transcription

1 201 W. University Odessa, Texas LICENSED VOCATIONAL NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK FALL

2 Table of Contents I.PREFACE... 5 HOW TO CONTACT US... 5 LVN PROGRAM APPROVAL... 6 STUDENT INPUT INTO THE EDUCATIONAL PROCESS... 6 II. PROGRAM FOUNDATION... 6 MISSION STATEMENT... 6 CURRICULUM DESIGN PRINCIPLES... 6 PROGRAM OBJECTIVES/OUTCOMES... 7 PROGRAM OBJECTIVES/OUTCOMES... 8 CORE OBJECTIVES (CO)... 8 PROGRAM ADMISSION... 9 Curriculum Plan Generic Option Curriculum Plan Dual Credit Option NURSING COURSE DESCRIPTIONS III. General Information ADVISEMENT AND REGISTRATION FINANCIAL AID PROGRAM EXPENSES LIABILITY AND SAFETY REQUIREMENTS AVAILABILITY OF PERSONAL CONTACT INFORMATION EMERGENCY TELEPHONE CALLS OUTSIDE EMPLOYMENT STUDENT-INSTRUCTOR COMMUNICATION ABSENCE AND TARDY POLICY REASONS FOR DISMISSAL FROM THE NURSING PROGRAM PROFESSIONAL ATTIRE INSURANCE CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITATION (CPR) TRAINING GUIDELINES FOR USE OF NURSING LABORATORY EXAM REVIEW STUDENT ADMISSION OF REVIEW & ACKNOWLEDGING VN POLICIES AND STANDARDS EVALUATION OF FACULTY AND COURSE LVN GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE

3 V. Board of Nurse Examiners Policies LICENSING CRITERIA Orders of Non-disclosure DISCIPLINARY SANCTIONS FOR SEXUAL MISCONDUCT DISCIPLINARY SANCTIONS FOR FRAUD, THEFT, AND DECEPTION DISCIPLINARY SANCTIONS FOR LYING AND FALSIFICATION IV. Conduct and Performance NURSING AND ALLIED HEALTH (NAH) CODE OF CONDUCT LEGAL AND ETHICAL REQUIREMENTS SCOPE OF PRACTICE STUDENT ACCOUNTABILITY STANDARDS FOR CLASSROOM CONDUCT STANDARDS FOR CLINICAL CONDUCT CLINICAL EVALUATION RESPONSIBILITY TO REPORT UNUSUAL OCCURANCES VISITING HOSPITAL PATIENTS CLINICAL CONCEPT MAP/CARE PLAN POLICY CELL PHONE USE AT CLINICAL AGENCIES SOCIAL MEDIA/SOCIAL NETWORKING TOBACCO FREE POLICY SAFETY IN THE CLINICAL SETTING VI. Evaluation and Grading GRADING POLICY PROCEDURE FOR REQUESTING SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS VII. Progression/Readmission READMISSION PROGRESSION/DISMISSAL TRANSFER POLICY INELIGIBILITY FOR RE-ADMISSION/ACADEMIC DISMISSAL STUDENT RETENTION POLICY MEDICATION MATH COMPETENCY ATI STANDARDS IX. Student Health and Safety HEALTH SCREENING REQUIREMENTS

4 DRUG SCREENING CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK STUDENT ILLNESS OR INJURY PREGNANCY X. Resources/Miscellaneous STANDARDS FOR WRITTEN WORK STUDENT RESOURCES FOR SUCCESS PINNING AND COMMENCEMENT POLICY AND RELEASE OF INFORMATION STUDENT ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF READING AND UNDERSTANDING

5 I.PREFACE Welcome to the Odessa College (OC) Licensed Vocational Nursing Program (LVN) This handbook is a supplement to the college catalog and general OC student policies. OC On-line policies can be accessed at The purpose of this handbook is to provide you with information specific to the nursing program. The handbook also contains helpful resource information to facilitate your success in the LVN Program. It is important that you keep and refer to this handbook throughout the program. This handbook maybe found on-line through the department page. This ODESSA COLLEGE LICENSED VOCATIONAL NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK is a publication of the Odessa College LVN Department. The policies, rules, and regulations and the general information provided in this handbook are subject to change without notice. HOW TO CONTACT US Vocational Nursing Program in Andrews Andrews Business and Technology Building. 201 NW Ave D., Andrews, Texas Phone number: Vocational Nursing Program in Monahans Monahans Center 806 South Dwight, Monahans, Texas Mailing address: P.O. Box 1370, Monahans, Texas Phone number: Dual Credit Vocational Nursing Program Health Science Building at Odessa College 201 W. University Blvd, Odessa, Texas Phone Number: OC Nursing Office Hours: Fall and Spring Semesters: Monday -Thursday 8:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m. (closed for lunch from 12:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m.); Friday 8:00 a.m. - 1 p.m. Summer: Monday -Thursday 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. (closed for lunch from 12:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m.); Closed Fridays Website: (Office hours for faculty posted on-line.) 5

6 THE ODESSA COLLEGE LICENSED VOCATIONAL NURSING PROGRAM DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE IN REGARD TO RACE, COLOR and AGE, ETHNIC/NATIONAL ORIGIN, RELIGION/CREED, GENDER/SEX, MARITAL STATUS, VETERAN STATUS, OR DISABILITY. LVN PROGRAM APPROVAL The Odessa College Vocational Nursing Program is approved by the Texas Board of Nursing (BON) for the State of Texas. The Texas BON can be reached at 333 Guadalupe, Suite 3-640, Austin, TX 78701, phone The nursing curriculum plan is approved by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB). STUDENT INPUT INTO THE EDUCATIONAL PROCESS You, the student, are the most important part of the nursing program. Your suggestions and ideas aid us in strengthening the program. Therefore, student input is encouraged and appreciated. Mechanisms for input may be through student government, ad hoc student representation on standing or called faculty committees, student representation on the Advisory Committee, course and program evaluations, or directly to faculty or the Director of Nursing. II. PROGRAM FOUNDATION MISSION STATEMENT The Mission of the Odessa College Licensed Vocational Nursing Program is to lead the way in preparing nursing students for practice in a multicultural community within a diverse and changing health care environment; advance the practice of nursing; and provide quality, comprehensive health care in a competent, caring and compassionate manner. Definition of Nursing Education: Nursing education incorporates a student centered process of learning that utilizes available resources, nursing courses, and general education courses that promote competency, accountability and professional development. CURRICULUM DESIGN PRINCIPLES Programmatic Components: Concepts are taught from a simple to an advanced level throughout the curriculum. The nursing program is organized into three (3) major components: general education courses, biological and social science courses, and nursing courses. Nursing Course Components: The nursing courses are further organized into three (3) distinct areas: theory, skills laboratory, and clinical laboratory. The theoretical portion of the nursing curriculum presents concepts and knowledge essential to the practice of nursing. The skills laboratory portion of the curriculum allows the development of manual skills required for nursing practice. The clinical laboratory portion of the curriculum provides the opportunity to apply both knowledge (theory) and skills in the direct care of clients. 6

7 The curriculum is designed to provide the student with a theoretical framework on which to base nursing interventions; a way of processing information to arrive at competent decisions, as well as competence in psychomotor skills basic to nursing practice. Implementation of the nursing curriculum is based on the following principles: o Courses and topics of study are designed so that the student moves from the simple/basic aspects to the complex/more difficult aspects. o The sequence of topics among nursing courses and between nursing and related science courses is planned to correlate as much as possible. o Courses are structured to provide didactic instruction, skills laboratory and simulation exercises, small group discussions or projects, and direct clinical practice at a high level of correlation. o Learning expectations are structured by program design and consistent use of theory and laboratory objectives. PROGRAM OBJECTIVES/OUTCOMES Upon completion of the program, the graduate will demonstrate competency in the following roles: The Odessa College LVN Program prepares individuals to provide safe, competent, compassionate care to persons of need in the community. Upon successful program completion the Vocational Nurse will have demonstrated competency in the following Differentiated Entry-Level Competencies. I. Member of the Profession: A. Function within the nurse s legal scope of practice and in accordance with the policies and procedures of the employing health care institution or practice setting. B. Assume responsibility and accountability for the quality of nursing care provided to patients and their families. C. Contribute to activities that promote the development and practice of vocational nursing. D. Demonstrate responsibility for continued competence in nursing practice, and develop insight through reflection, self-analysis, self-care, and lifelong learning. II. Provider of Patient-Centered Care: A. Use clinical reasoning and established evidence-based policies as the basis for decision-making in nursing practice. B. Assist in determining the physical and mental health status, needs, and preferences of culturally, ethnically, and socially diverse patients and their families based on interpretation of healthrelated data. C. Report data to assist in the identification of problems and formulation of goals/outcomes and patient-centered plans of care in collaboration with patients, their families, and the interdisciplinary health care team. D. Provide safe, compassionate, basic nursing care to assigned patients with predictable health care needs through a supervised, directed scope of practice. E. Implement aspects of the plan of care within legal, ethical, and regulatory parameters and in consideration of patient factors. F. Identify and report alterations in patient responses to therapeutic interventions in comparison to expected outcomes. G. Implement teaching plans for patients and their families with common health problems and welldefined health learning needs. H. Assist in the coordination of human, information, and material resources in providing care for assigned patients and their families. 7

8 II. Patient Safety Advocate: A. Demonstrate knowledge of the Texas Nursing Practice Act (NPA) and the Texas Board of Nursing Rules that emphasize safety, as well as all federal, state, and local government and accreditation organization safety requirements and standards. B. Implement measures to promote quality and a safe environment for patients, self, and others. C. Assist in the formulation of goals and outcomes to reduce patient risks. D. Obtain instruction, supervision, or training as needed when implementing nursing procedures or practices. E. Comply with mandatory reporting requirements of the Texas NPA. F. Make assignments that take into consideration patient safety and organizational policy. III. Member of the Health Care Team: A. Communicate and collaborate with patients, their families, and the interdisciplinary health care team to assist in the planning, delivery, and coordination of patient-centered care to assigned patients. B. Participate as an advocate in activities that focus on improving the health care of patients and their families. C. Participate in the identification of patient needs for referral to resources that facilitate PROGRAM OBJECTIVES/OUTCOMES Upon completion of the program, the vocational nursing student will demonstrate competency in the following roles: 1. Upon completion of the program, students will be able to employ critical thinking skills, in their identification of problems, collection and analysis of information and/or equipment, and conclusions. 2. Upon completion of the program, the student will be able to develop a message that communicates understanding of one or more program/core objectives. 3. Upon completion of the program, the student will be able to reach minimum projection percentiles for NCLEX-PN success based on the number of correct responses to the standardized test questions on the Assessment Technology Institute (ATI) Exam. 4. Upon completion of the program, the student will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the ethical and legal concerns related to the Scope of Practice of the Licensed Vocational Nurse. 5. Upon completion of the program, the student will be able to apply effective practices in a clinical setting. CORE OBJECTIVES (CO) Given the rapid evolution of necessary knowledge and skills and the need to take into account global, national, state, and local cultures, the core curriculum must ensure that students will develop the essential knowledge and skills they need to be successful in college, in a career, in their communities, and in life. Therefore, with the assistance of the Undergraduate Education Advisory Committee, the Coordinating Board has approved guidelines for a core curriculum for all undergraduate students in Texas. The Odessa College faculty have evaluated all of their courses listed in the descriptions on the following pages of this catalog and have keyed them to Odessa College s Institutional Core Objectives as defined by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB). The numbers found at the end of each course description refer to the following Institutional Core Objectives that have been adopted by Odessa College: 8

9 Description of Odessa College s Core Objectives (CO) 1. Critical Thinking Skills - to include creative thinking, innovation, inquiry, and analysis, evaluation and synthesis of information. 2. Communication Skills - to include effective development, interpretation and expression of ideas through written, oral and visual communication. 3. Empirical and Quantitative Skills - to include the manipulation and analysis of numerical data or observable facts resulting in informed conclusions. 4. Teamwork - to include the ability to consider different points of view and to work effectively with others to support a shared purpose or goal. 5. Personal Responsibility - to include the ability to connect choices, actions and consequences to ethical decision-making. 6. Social Responsibility - to include intercultural competence, knowledge of civic responsibility, and the ability to engage effectively in regional, national, and global communities. PROGRAM ADMISSION Applicants must satisfy all Specialized Admissions criteria: General Requirements Meet Assessment Thresholds (TEAS V) o Overall Score: 54 o Math Score: 60 o Reading Score: 60 o In the event that a student does not meet the required score for the math or reading section, a remedial Math or Reading/Writing course may be taken, must be passed, to replace the original score. Pre-Program Specific Submission Once a student has satisfied all Specialized Admissions Criterion as listed above, they will then be ranked using the Ranking Protocols below. The number of students admitted each semester depends upon faculty availability and clinical resources. General Requirements Applicants for Specialized Admissions Programs in Nursing and Allied Health Unit must satisfy minimum criteria in order to be eligible for consideration of ranking: The applicant is required to meet all the following: Enrolled at Odessa College as a Credit Student Completion with a C or better of all academic and specialized courses listed on the degree plan Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 is required Submit all previous college/university transcripts (transliteration of all foreign coursework required) prior to ranking. When a student has course work from colleges outside of OC, all the overall GPAs will be averaged together. High School Diploma or GED. Complete Immunization Records Submit all documents and official transcripts to any Nursing Office (Andrews Extension, Monahans Extension, Main Campus) or via electronic submission before posted deadline. 9

10 Specific Admissions Requirements Applicants for specialized programs must also meet all pre-program specific requirements PRIOR to qualifying for ranking. The following is required for all applicants: Complete a Nursing Specialized Admissions Orientation in person. Maintain current CPR card (online not accepted). Meet immunization requirements. See check off list for required immunizations. Provide proof of health and auto insurance which must be maintained throughout the program. Additional Information Applications Accepted: May 1 st through June 1 st. Program Start Dates: Fall Term per Odessa College Academic Calendar. Number of students admitted may vary by term based on program instructional and clinical resources. A student has one year to complete the Licensed Vocational Nursing Certificate Level 1. Students will be expected to pay additional fees required for state mandatory background tests and national exams. We will provide most current list of extraneous expenses at Student Orientation. Post Admissions Requirements Students are responsible for the following requirements AFTER accepting a seat in the program: Background Check - Upon qualification into the program, your name is submitted to the Texas Board of Nursing for the first background check. The student will not be able to go to the clinical areas or health care facilities until cleared. Fingerprinting with a background check from FBI is required by BON. Please wait for instructions to start this process from the Nursing Department. Substance Abuse Screening - students who cannot participate in clinical rotations due to adverse activities revealed through substance abuse testing cannot complete course or program requirements. Students who fail to obtain clearance may be released from the program. Program Orientation - one day in person orientation will provide additional institutional and program details necessary for students to be successful. Clinical Orientation each clinical site may require an additional orientation HIPAA Training - HIPAA Access Online. Uniforms, Specialized Equipment, Lab Supplies, and Liability Insurance required for clinical. Note that students must be formally admitted into the Nursing Program to enroll in Clinical Courses Transfer of Credit Students who have course credits from other accredited colleges or universities must provide the registrar s office and the nursing office with an official transcript. The registrar s office evaluates general education transfer credits. The Program Director will review course credits and decide transferability when the student requests course substitution. Transfer of nursing courses occurs only when course content is deemed equivalent with that of Odessa College. FERPA Students must sign a FERPA release to approve release of Confidential Records for Admission Purposes. Any records that are not available for review will not be considered as part of the admissions packet. 10

11 Curriculum Plan Generic Option Course of Study for the Generic Vocational Nursing Program FALL 2015 Program Area Semester Hours First Semester: VSNG 1160 Introductory Clinical Nursing 1 VSNG 1227 Essentials of Medication Administration (2-4) 2 VSNG 1400 Nursing in Health & Illness I (4-4) 4 VSNG 1402 Applied Nursing Skills I (4-4) 4 VSNG 1405 Health Science (5-0) 4 Second Semester: VSNG 1361 Intermediate Clinical Nursing (0-12) 3 VSNG 1330 Maternal/Newborn Nursing (3-0) 3 VSNG 1334 Pediatric Nursing (3-0) 3 VSNG 1509 Nursing in Health & Illness II (4-5) 5 Third Semester: VSNG 1219 Leadership Professional Development (2-0) 2 VSNG 1238 Mental Illness (2-0) 2 VSNG 1363 Advanced Clinical Nursing (0-12) 3 VSNG 1510 Nursing Health in Illness III (4-5) 5 Total Hours for the Licensed Vocational Nursing Level I Certificate 41 Curriculum Plan Dual Credit Option Course of Study for the Dual Credit Vocational Nursing Program FALL 2015 Program Area Semester Hours First Semester: VSNG 1227 Essentials of Medication Administration (2-4) 2 VSNG 1405 Health Science (5-0) 4 Second Semester: VSNG 1400 Nursing in Health & Illness I (4-4) 4 VSNG 1402 Applied Nursing Skills I (4-4) 4 Third Semester: VSNG 1238 Mental Illness (2-0) 2 VSNG 1160 Introductory Clinical Nursing 1 Fourth Semester: VSNG 1509 Nursing in Health & Illness II (4-5) 5 VSNG 1510 Nursing Health in Illness III (4-5) 5 Fifth Semester: VSNG 1361 Intermediate Clinical Nursing (0-12) 3 VSNG 1330 Maternal/Newborn Nursing (3-0) 3 VSNG 1334 Pediatric Nursing (3-0) 3 Sixth Semester: VSNG 1219 Leadership Professional Development (2-0) 2 VSNG 1363 Advanced Clinical Nursing (0-12) 3 11

12 Total Hours for the Licensed Vocational Nursing Level I Certificate 41 NURSING COURSE DESCRIPTIONS VNSG 1405 Health Science ( ) (4-0) 4 hours An introduction to the general principles of anatomy and physiology, nutrition, and microbiology necessary for understanding body processes and basic principles underlying health promotion and therapeutic interventions. (ICOs 1, 2, 3, 4) Prerequisite: Program admission, Corequisites: VNSG 1260, VNSG 1227, VNSG 1400, and VNSG VNSG 1227 Essentials of Medication Administration ( ) (2 4) 2 hours General principles of medication administration including determination of dosage, preparation, safe administration, and documentation of multiple forms of drugs. Instruction includes various systems of measurement. Lab fee required. (ICOs 1, 2, 3, 5, 6) Prerequisite: Program admission. Corequisites: VNSG 1160, VNSG 1400, VNSG 1402, and VNSG VNSG 1402 Applied Nursing Skills I ( ) (4-4) 4 hours Introduction to and application of primary nursing skills. Emphasis on utilization of the nursing process and related scientific principles. (ICOs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) Prerequisite: Program admission. Corequisites: VSNG 1160, VNSG 1227, VSNG 1400 and VSNG VNSG 1400 Nursing in Health and Illness I ( ) (4-4) 4 hours Introduction to general principles of growth and development, primary health care needs of the patient across the life span, and therapeutic nursing interventions. (ICOs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) Prerequisite: Program admission. Corequisites: VNSG 1160, VNSG 1227, VNSG 1402, and VNSG VNSG 1160 Introductory Clinical Nursing ( ) (0 8) 1 hour A health-related work-based learning experience that enables the student to apply specialized occupational theory, skills, and concepts. Direct supervision is provided by the clinical professional. (ICOs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) Prerequisite: Program admission. Corequisites: VNSG 1227, VNSG 1400, VNSG 1402, VNSG 1405 and VNSG VNSG 1509 Nursing in Health and Illness II ( ) (4-5) 5 hours Introduction to health problems requiring medical and surgical interventions. (ICOs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) Prerequisites: VNSG 1160, VNSG 1227, VNSG 1400, VNSG 1402 and VNSG Corequisites: VNSG 1330, VNSG 1334, and VNSG VNSG 1330 Maternal Neonatal Nursing ( ) (3 0) 3 hours A study of the biological, psychological, and sociological concepts applicable to basic needs of the family including childbearing and neonatal care. Utilization of the nursing process in the assessment and 12

13 management of the childbearing family. Topics include physiological changes related to pregnancy, fetal development, and nursing care of the family during labor and delivery and the puerperium. (ICOs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) Prerequisites: VNSG 1160, VNSG 1227, VNSG 1400, VNSG 1402, and VNSG 1405.Corequisite: VNSG 1361, VNSG 1334, and VNSG VNSG 1334 Pediatrics ( ) (3 0) 3 hours Study of the care of the pediatric patient and family during health and disease. Emphasis on growth and developmental needs utilizing the nursing process. (ICOs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) Prerequisites: VNSG 1160, VNSG 1227, VNSG 1400, VNSG 1402, and VNSG 1405.Corequisite: VNSG 1361, VNSG 1330 and VNSG VNSG 1361 Intermediate Clinical Nursing ( ) (0 15) 3 hours A health-related work-based learning experience that enables the student to apply specialized occupational theory, skills, and concepts. Direct supervision is provided by the clinical professional. (ICOs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) Prerequisites: VNSG 1160, VNSG 1227, VNSG 1400, VNSG 1402 and VNSG Corequisites: VNSG 1330, VNSG 1334, and VNSG VSNG 1510 Nursing in Health and Illness III ( ) (4-5) 5 hours Continuation of Nursing in Health and Illness II. Further study of medical-surgical health problems of the patient including concepts such as mental illness. Incorporates knowledge necessary to make the transition from student to graduate vocational nurse. (ICOs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) Prerequisite: VNSG 1361, VNSG 1334, VNSG 1330 and VNSG 1509, VNSG 1160, VNSG 1227, VNSG 1405, VNSG 1400 and VNSG Corequisites: VNSG 1219, VNSG 1238 and VNSG VNSG 1238 Mental Illness ( ) (2 0) 2 hours Study of human behavior with emphasis on emotional and mental abnormalities and modes of treatment incorporating the nursing process. (ICOs 1, 2, 4, 5, 6) Prerequisites: VNSG 1330, VNSG 1334, VNSG 1361 and VNSG 1509, VNSG 1227, VNSG 1160, VNSG 1405, VNSG 1400 and VNSG 1402.Corequisites: VNSG 1238, VNSG 1363 and VNSG VNSG 1219 Leadership and Professional Development ( ) (2-0) 2 hours Study of the importance of professional growth. Topics include the role of the licensed vocational nurse in the multi-disciplinary health care team, professional organizations, and continuing education. (ICOs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) Prerequisites: VNSG 1330, VNSG 1334, VNSG 1361 and VNSG 1509, VNSG 1227, VNSG 1160, VNSG 1405, VNSG 1400 and VNSG 1402.Corequisites: VNSG 1238, VNSG 1363 and VNSG VNSG 1363 Advanced Clinical Nursing ( ) (0-12) 3 hours A health-related work-based learning experience that enables the student to apply specialized occupational theory, skills, and concepts. Direct supervision is provided by the clinical professional. (ICOs1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) Prerequisite VNSG 1361, VNSG 1334, VNSG 1330 and VNSG 1509, VNSG 1160, VNSG 1227, VNSG 1405, VNSG 1400 and VNSG Corequisites: VNSG 1219, VNSG 1238, and VNSG

14 III. General Information ADVISEMENT AND REGISTRATION The LVN Programs are a competitive admission program of study and follow a cohort model of instruction. The Nursing Department controls the registration and reserves places in each class for all nursing students throughout the program in a block scheduling format. Clinical courses cannot be audited. Nursing faculty also serve as additional academic advisors for students while in the nursing program. If degree plan issues arise, contact the Program Director. FINANCIAL AID Odessa College is firmly committed to the philosophy of assisting students who do not have the financial resources to pay for higher education to attend college. Of equal importance is the awarding of academic scholarships to recognize students who exhibit superior scholastic abilities. The Student Financial Services Office administers areas: grants, employment, scholarships and loans. A Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and an institutional application are required for all need-based financial aid programs. Both the institutional application and the FAFSA are available from OC Student Financial Services or the OC Web site at When requesting information about financial aid programs, students should ask for an application packet and the Financial Aid Bulletin. The bulletin provides detailed information about aid programs, including general eligibility requirements and satisfactory academic progress. The scholarship application is separate from the FAFSA. Students accepted into the Nursing Program are eligible to apply for selected scholarships specifically for nursing majors. A list of scholarships, amounts of each, number awarded each year and requirements are available from OC Student Financial Services. For eligibility requirements and other information please contact the Odessa College Foundation, which administers all institutional scholarships. Students seeking government loans are informed by the financial aid office about all rights and responsibilities concerning the loan. The office closely monitors all loan recipients while they are students at OC. Nursing students should be advised that the Texas Rules and Regulations relating to Nurse Education, Licensure and Practice in the section for Unprofessional Conduct ('217.12; item 26) states that failing to repay a guaranteed student loan, as provided in Section of the Texas Education Code, qualifies as unprofessional and dishonorable behavior of the LVN/LPN. The Nursing Practice Act stipulates that unprofessional conduct leads to disciplinary action, up to and including removal of the nurse s license. If financial problems occur which potentially jeopardizes continuing in the Nursing Program, please seek guidance from a college counselor or the Program Director. PROGRAM EXPENSES All costs are the responsibility of the student. The approximate cost of the nursing program is $7, for in-district students, $9, for out of district students, $10, for out of state students. This includes items such as tuition and fees for the nursing and non-nursing (general education) courses, certified nurse aid and CPR training, books for nursing courses, supplies, student uniforms and accessories, fees associated with testing and licensing, parking, and liability insurance. Note that books 14

15 and supplies are REQUIRED. Many books are purchased for the first semester and are utilized during the entire program. Prices are subject to change. LIABILITY AND SAFETY REQUIREMENTS Health and accident insurance is required. If the student needs to purchase any of these policies, please seek assistance from the director for additional information. Students are required to have current immunizations and screenings including the flu shot (during season), tuberculosis skin testing, and multiple urine drug screens. These costs vary depending on the needs of the individual. Please see program secretaries for information on local screening resources. Students are required to maintain current training in CPR. Course fees vary. Students may not take an online CPR course. Transportation related expenses are the responsibility of the student. Multiple clinical sites in the Permian Basin are utilized. Odessa College may not be held responsible for any accident, vehicular or otherwise, that occurs associated with student assignments. AVAILABILITY OF PERSONAL CONTACT INFORMATION Students must assist the Nursing Office by keeping the most current address and phone number(s) on file. A routine update of pertinent student information will be made at the beginning of each semester. Inform the Nursing Office regarding name changes. Personal contact information will be kept confidential upon the student s request. EMERGENCY TELEPHONE CALLS Cell phones are not allowed in class or at clinical sites. Each student should give family members a copy of his/her clinical and class schedule. If an emergency occurs requiring immediate notification of the student, all efforts will be made to contact the student in a timely manner. Family may also contact the Odessa College Campus Police for evening emergencies, If the student is in clinical, the most expedient method to contact the student will be for family to contact the unit or area where the student is assigned. This should occur only if a true emergency exists. If the instructor has a pager or cell phone, have family call the instructor. If the family member calls the Nursing Office during day time hours, attempts will be made to reach the instructor and/or student in the clinical setting. The student must promptly notify the instructor in the event of personal emergency and cannot leave the area without proper notification. Personal calls of a non-emergent nature are not allowed when the student is in the clinical area of any hospital or agency. OUTSIDE EMPLOYMENT Students may not serve the dual role of student and hospital/agency employee during the time the student is participating in a clinical laboratory experience. Odessa College takes no responsibility for students who are employed while enrolled in the Nursing Program. The required student liability insurance purchased with payment of tuition and fees is valid in the student role and not the role of 15

16 employee. When engaged in outside employment activities, the student will not wear any Odessa College identification. STUDENT-INSTRUCTOR COMMUNICATION All instructors have scheduled office hours which are posted on-line. Students are encouraged to contact their instructors if they wish to discuss their progress, a problem, or need other help related to their role as a student nurse. Contact the Program Director if further assistance is needed. All official communications and turning in of assignments must take place through OC . Policies and procedures are communicated to students by means of the Student Handbook, course syllabi and learning materials packets. The handbook is revised as needed to provide current and accurate information to students in the Nursing Program. Changes in policies and procedures will be announced to each class by the Program Director or faculty and copies of the revised policy will be distributed as handouts or on the departmental home page at the OC Web site. Instructors and/or the Program Director will answer student questions regarding stated changes. ABSENCE AND TARDY POLICY Students are expected to attend all scheduled theory, laboratory, and clinical classes. Good attendance helps ensure success in nursing school as there is a large volume of materials to cover and laboratory/clinical experiences provide necessary connection of theory to practice. Attendance and punctuality are also important professional responsibilities. In the event of illness or family crisis, the instructor should be notified as soon as possible. Absences due to extenuating circumstance will be considered on an individual basis. Awarding of grades and progression are affected by absences in the following manner: Absence from Clinical: The following will result in an automatic grade of zero for a clinical day and a written Violation of the NAH Code of Conduct: o Failure to notify the clinical instructor and clinical site of an absence at least 15 minutes in before the clinical day begins. o Clinical absences will be made up to meet course objectives. Tardies over 15 minutes from a clinical site will be considered an absence and must be made up. o If a student shows up to a clinical without proper paperwork, attire or equipment, the student will be sent home and the clinical will be considered an absence and must be made up. Missed clinical hours must be made up hour for hour. The LVN program will only offer up to 16 make-up clinical hours per semester. Any clinical time missed over 16 hours per semester will result in dismissal from the VN Program. Absence from Classroom and Lab: The following will result in an automatic grade of zero for a class/lab day and a written Violation of the NAH Code of Conduct: o Lecturing instructor should be notified of any absence as soon as there is a conflict and at least before the class begins. If the instructor cannot be reached, a message may be left on the instructor s voice mail or in the Nursing Office. Follow the guidelines set by each instructor. o If the student does not call, it will be considered a no call no show and the lab time must be made up hour for hour. 16

17 REASONS FOR DISMISSAL FROM THE NURSING PROGRAM (As per the rules set forth by the Texas Board of Nursing #214.8) Evidence of actual or potential harm to patients, clients, or the public. Criminal behavior whether violent or non-violent, directed against persons, property or public order and decency. Intemperate use, abuse of drugs or alcohol, or diagnosis of or treatment for chemical dependency, mental illness, or diminished mental capacity. Lack of good professional character as evidenced by a single incident or an integrated pattern of personal, academic and/or occupational behaviors which, in the judgment of the Board, indicates that an individual is unable to consistently conform his or her conduct to the requirements of the Nursing Practice Act, the Board s rules and regulations, and generally accepted standard of nursing practice including, but not limited to, behaviors indicating honesty, accountability, trustworthiness, reliability, and integrity. The following will result in an immediate Course Failure and a dismissal from the program and the student must follow proper steps as outlined for readmission. o Any time missed over 16 hours in one clinical semester o The student will receive a clinical failure if a make-up day is missed o Two (2) no call/no shows in a class/lab o Any course absence of more than 20% of scheduled class time o Any course grade below 75% o Any course exam average of below 75% o Not meeting the math competence thresholds each semester o Not meeting all ATI thresholds for the Medical Surgical, Pharmacology and Comprehensive Proctored Exams PROFESSIONAL ATTIRE Projecting a professional image is a responsibility of all nursing students. Appearance reflects not only on the individual but also upon the Odessa College Nursing Program. The student dress code applies to students enrolled in all program tracks. Instructors enforce the dress code and will explain any exceptions to the dress code appropriate to the clinical requirements of the specific course. Clinical Attire Guidelines: General appearance guidelines: Hair must be worn off the collar up in a clean proper BUN. Nails are to be clean and short. No nail polish may be worn. No acrylic nails may be worn. Personal hygiene must be maintained. Effective deodorant must be worn. Offensive breath must be avoided. No cologne or perfume will be worn. One small, plain stud earring may be worn in each ear. Hoop earrings are not allowed. No rings or necklaces may be worn. Other visible body piercing or tongue rings are not allowed. Body art (tattoos) must be covered. Makeup must be light and in good taste. The Odessa College name tag must be worn on the left side of the uniform or lab coat. It must be visible at all times. Name Tags are purchased by the student as part of course fees and ordered by the Nursing Department. The student is responsible for any name tag replacements, including picking up and paying for the name tag at the local provider. Clinical agencies may require photo identification badges, and if so, the student will follow all instructions regarding their provision and use. Beards must be short and neatly trimmed. 17

18 Gum chewing IS NOT PERMITTED while in the clinical area. Student identification (name tag; badges) should be removed outside the clinical setting. When feasible, students should not wear the school uniform in public settings. Uniform Guidelines: The uniform consists of royal blue scrubs. No rayon material is allowed. A white crew necked undergarment may be worn under the scrub top. The scrub top must be buttoned. The following uniform selections are available at local uniform shops or from various catalogs or online sources. A blue lab coat is required. It must be at least finger-tip length when the arm is extended to the thigh. The lab coat must be worn when entering or exiting a clinical site or classroom. An Odessa College patch is to be worn on the left sleeve approximately 4" below the shoulder seam on all outer garments (scrub top and lab coat). Patches may be purchased either at the Odessa College Bookstore or at local uniform shops. Footwear must be solid white leather tennis shoes. No mesh is allowed. Socks and undergarments must be white in color. Uniforms must be clean and pressed. The instructor may send a student home if attire is inappropriate. The above attire must be purchased prior to beginning clinical rotations. Students will be required to purchase one class t-shirt and one pair of black scrub pants to be worn with white tennis shoes for clinical sites and community events that do not require uniforms. Instructors will explain clinical attire requirements within a specific course when these differ from the above requirements. (Examples: proper attire in community agencies, specialty areas in hospitals, hospital attire when not performing patient care, etc.) Classroom/Lab Attire: Attire on campus should be appropriate for the setting. Suggestive clothing is not to be worn in the classroom setting. Classrooms may be cool so layering of clothing is helpful to maintain comfort. Pre-Clinical Selection Attire: Students must be attired in the required student uniform when going to the hospital to select client(s) prior to the actual clinical experience. The student uniform guidelines may be found in the Odessa College Vocational Nursing Student Handbook. Name tags must be worn. If student is not in appropriate uniform, he/she will not be allowed to select the client(s) for the upcoming clinical experience, thus unable to attend clinicals, which will result in two clinical absences for the week. INSURANCE Professional liability insurance is required each semester. The cost of the insurance is included in the tuition and fees of each clinical course. Clinical agency contracts require that students have personal health and accident insurance while enrolled in nursing and other health career programs. Any policy is satisfactory but the student will be required to verify proof of the policy every semester while enrolled in the nursing program. Insurance options are listed on the Odessa College Web site that may be utilized, or the student can pick their own. Dropping personal health and accident insurance during any semester of the program will prohibit the student from attending clinical and may result in the dismissal from the nursing program. Ask for an information packet in the Nursing Office or Student Services. Please call the nursing office for phone number to purchase insurance if needed. 18

19 CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITATION (CPR) TRAINING Prior to the beginning of the nursing program, and throughout the program, students are required to show proof of a valid American Heart Association or American Red Cross CPR card. Training must be for healthcare providers. CPR classes are offered throughout the year and at various locations in Odessa and surrounding communities. Online recertification courses will not be accepted. A copy of the CPR card must be presented to the Nursing Office each year the student is in the program. The CPR card must not expire during the semester, if the card expires during the current semester the student will be required to have it renewed prior to the beginning of the current semester. GUIDELINES FOR USE OF NURSING LABORATORY Cell phones are to be turned off when ENTERING the lab for practice, remediation, and evaluation of skills. Supplies and materials are to be taken from the supply room by instructors ONLY. Laundry is to be discarded in the laundry barrel. NEVER discard needles or trash in the laundry barrel. Use approved needle disposal units to discard needles and other sharp objects. Children are not allowed to play in this area. Keep off beds unless their use is part of practice in the lab. Before a student lies in the bed to serve as a patient, shoes should be removed. Straighten the bed after use. Replace chairs around tables. Leave the lab neat, clean, and orderly. No food or drink is allowed in the lab. Use proper shut down procedure before turning off computers. The Skills Lab Instructor will post Open Lab times in a conspicuous place near the lab. The Skills Lab instructor also works with students to arrange, remediation, or evaluation of skill performance by appointment with approved faculty. Videotaped demonstrations and Skills Videos are available on Blackboard and the streaming format of current text book. Nursing students must make time to view media prior to attending the scheduled skills lab if requested by the course instructor. Students who demonstrate deficiencies in the clinical setting may be sent back to the skills lab by the instructor for review and rechecks by Nursing Faculty /Skills Lab Instructor. EXAM REVIEW OC nursing faculty provide students the opportunity and encourage students to review exam questions after each exam. The method and procedure for exam review is determined by the individual instructor. In addition, a student must make an appointment with their instructor within one week of the exam to review the exam unless prior arrangements are made with the instructor. If the instructor allows a student to review the final exam, it must be within two days of taking the exam. If exam questions are challenged, students must submit their challenge in writing. Follow the guidelines in course materials. Final exam questions may not be challenged. STUDENT ADMISSION OF REVIEW & ACKNOWLEDGING VN POLICIES AND STANDARDS Student admission of review and acknowledging VN policies and standards are a part of each course's materials. The student is expected to read the course materials and sign the acknowledgement. The signing of the acknowledgement indicates that the student understands course requirements and course policies such as, but not limited to, grading and attendance. Student acknowledgements are routinely maintained by the instructor of record for one semester. 19

20 EVALUATION OF FACULTY AND COURSE The VN Program welcomes student feedback. Evaluations are most helpful when they are honest, fair, constructive, and pertinent to the class, clinical experience, or course. Faculty seriously considers student evaluations in making modifications in the course, specific classes, and clinical assignments. Evaluations of class, laboratory, and clinical teaching effectiveness are used by individual faculty in identifying areas of strength and areas for needed improvement. The faculty values student evaluation of teaching effectiveness as a means of improving teaching skills. Students are encouraged to evaluate classroom and clinical instruction using the forms and methods provided. In addition, verbal input is welcome. At the end of each course students will have the ability to complete an end of course survey on Blackboard. LVN GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE It is recognized that most academic issues and concerns are resolved on an informal basis. When this is not possible, students may wish to employ a formal means to problem resolution. The Nursing Department s policy reflects the Odessa College Student Complaints policy FLD (LOCAL), which is found in the OC Online policy manual at V. Board of Nurse Examiners Policies LICENSING CRITERIA Current information regarding licensing found at the following link: The Texas Board of Nursing (BON) has been given the authority by law to protect the public form incompetent or unsafe nurses. Part of their mandated responsibility is to screen individuals applying for the vocational nurse license. Under certain circumstances it is possible to graduate from a nursing school in the State of Texas and yet not be allowed to take the Vocational Nurse licensure exam, NCLEX-PN. The Board of Nurse Examiners for the State of Texas (BNE) approves all candidates for licensure. Good professional character must be present. The BNE will do an FBI check using fingerprint identification for all candidates for licensure, once prospective students have been accepted into the nursing program. Some events, such as having a felony or misdemeanor conviction, having action taken against your health care provider license, having certain mental health disorders or a history of substance abuse may disqualify a candidate for licensure. It does not matter how long ago these events occurred. The BNE requires a review of the individual's situation under a process called a declaratory order. The most common mistake student make is assuming that their offense was a long time ago and does not have to be reported. Students who believe the information below will affect their eligibility into the Vocational Nursing Program must request information regarding a Declaratory Order by going to the BON WEB site at to the section on Forms. Order will be at least 3 months, possibly longer. Therefore, if the student believes he or she will require a Declaratory Order the application process should start after the student receives a letter of acceptance into the Vocational Nursing Program. This process must be completed before the start of the first day of class in the fall semester. Criminal Background Check Procedure: Criminal background checks must be completed and the results (a blue card mailed to the student, from the Board of Nursing) submitted to the nursing office no later than the first day of class for the first semester (or the first semester a transfer student is attending). Upon completion of the acceptance list of nursing students for the upcoming semester, the nursing program will send a roster of students accepted to the Texas Board of Nursing (BON). Please click on the following link for information regarding background check from the (BON). Refer to item 3. 20

21 Only the college s designated members of the nursing program will have access to your background check results. Students should be advised that criminal activity during the nursing program will impede the licensing process. The Texas Board of Nursing may heavily scrutinize the applicant for licensure who demonstrates poor professional behavior as a student nurse. Declaratory Order Procedure: This process must be followed by the nursing candidate if any of the following criteria a. If you have had any licensing authority: 1) refuse to issue you a license; 2) revoke a license; 3) annul a license; 4) cancel a license; 5) accept surrender of a license; 6) suspend a license; 7) place a license on probation; 8) refuse to renew a professional license or certificate held by you now or previously; or 9) ever fine, censure, reprimand, or otherwise discipline a license issued to you. b. If you have been arrested in any state, territory, or country, including expunged offenses and deferred adjudication(s) with or without prejudice of guilt for anything other than a minor traffic violation. (DUIs, DWIs, and PIs must be reported and are not considered minor traffic violations). Effective 09/1/03, "minor in possession" (MIP) is no longer required to be reported to the Board. c. If you have ever been convicted, adjudged guilty by a court, pled guilty or pled nolo contendr to any crime (felony or misdemeanor) whether or not a sentence was imposed (excluding minor traffic violations). d. If you have any criminal charges pending against you in any court. e. If you have been diagnosed, treated, or hospitalized in the past five (5) years for schizophrenia or other psychotic disorder, bipolar disorder, paranoid personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, or borderline personality disorder. f. If you have been addicted to or treated for the use of alcohol or any other drug within the past five (5) years. g. If you have been issued an order concerning eligibility for examination or licensure by any Board or if you have ever received a proposal of ineligibility. Criminal background checks are performed on all applicants for acceptance to a Vocational nursing program and Licensure in Texas. A criminal background check must be completed through the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) based on the set of fingerprints you provide to MorphoTrust (ldentogo). The BON cannot accept fingerprint cards or criminal background check results mailed by the applicant, or results that were completed for another facility, even if the previous check was completed through DPS and FBI. The Fast Pass form will be provided to students once the preliminary roster has been submitted to the BON and instructions to release the form to prospective students and alternates. The following information will assist you in submitting the required fingerprints to our office: For applicants residing in Texas, The instructions on the Fast Pass labeled Applicants residing in Texas will assist you in scheduling your appointment. Log on to the MorphoTrust (ldentogo) website, or call If you are scheduling by phone, you will need to request an "Electronic Fingerprint Submission" appointment. You will be prompted by ldentogo for the following additional personal data: Date of Birth, Sex, Race, Ethnicity, Skin Tone, Height, Weight, Eye Color, Hair Color, Place of Birth and Home Address. Requested data is required by TXDPS and FBI to process the background check. All necessary fields on the attached FAST Pass must be completed and taken to your appointment along with a valid state issued identification. During the fingerprint appointment you will be prompted for Social Security Number and Driver License Number. You will also be required to have your photograph taken at the time of the appointment. Once the appointment is 21