EDGEWOOD COLLEGE SCHOOL OF NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK

Transcription

1 EDGEWOOD COLLEGE SCHOOL OF NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK SCHOOL OF NURSING 1000 Edgewood College Drive Madison, WI (608) Revised April

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Section Page Purpose and Objectives of the Nursing Major...3 Mission of the School of Nursing...3 Baccalaureate Program Outcomes...3 Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability...4 ANA Standards of Clinical Nursing Practice/Standards of Professional Performance Code of Ethics for Nurses...5 Degrees offered...6 Admission and Progression Repeating Courses... 7 Sample Curriculum Attendance Academic Integrity Suspension from Clinical Settings Dismissal from the Nursing program Appeals Procedure Student Complaints and Review/Maintenance of Records Academic Advisement Health Requirements CPR Requirements CNA Certification Health and Accidental Injury Insurance Liability Insurance Uniforms/Clinical Dress Code Expenses Transportation Communications Student Nurses Association Participation in School of Nursing Governance Changes in Policy Graduate Areas of Practice...17 Master of Science in Nursing...18 Admission Information Health Requirements Wisconsin Caregiver Background Check Law Course Scheduling Degree Requirements Grading Policy for Undergraduate/Graduate Courses 20 2

3 PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES OF THE NURSING MAJOR The purpose of the Edgewood College School of Nursing is to provide a Baccalaureate program of nursing education, which prepares a competent generalist in the professional practice of nursing within: The context of a Christian community A collaborative framework of nursing practice, education and research A climate that fosters lifelong learning Mission of the School of Nursing The School of Nursing reflects the Mission Statement of Edgewood College by locating professional nursing within the context of a Catholic, liberal arts college with a Dominican Heritage. The mission of the College is to develop intellectual competence and a sense of responsibility for service and to further personal development. Nursing is a profession built on knowledge from nursing theory, research and practice, the humanities, and the natural and behavioral sciences. Nursing values the systematic and purposeful application of the nursing process to promote the optimal health of clients. Caring is essential to professional nursing practice and includes appreciation of human diversity and respect for the rights of others. Students are unique individuals who enter nursing with diverse characteristics and experiences. It is the responsibility of the student to actively pursue knowledge and experience and to develop intellectual curiosity with a spirit of inquiry as a basis for lifelong learning. The faculty develops, implements and evaluates the curriculum to provide a broad and rich foundation for nursing practice. Faculty foster the professional development of students by offering learning challenges, promoting opportunities to think critically and creatively and exhibiting collegiality in the teaching-learning relationship. Teaching and learning is a dynamic and interactive process designed to integrate knowledge and research with professional nursing practice. Teaching and learning are facilitated when both students and faculty are actively engaged in the process. The nursing graduates of Edgewood College are knowledgeable, accountable, responsible, ethical and culturally sensitive as they provide quality nursing care. Undergraduate education provides the knowledge and experience to practice as professional nurses. Graduate education builds on undergraduate education and prepares nurse leaders committed to improving nursing practice. Baccalaureate Program Outcomes The graduate will: Establish therapeutic relationships with clients that demonstrate caring. Demonstrate critical thinking skills and caring practices to promote, maintain and restore health. Synthesize knowledge from nursing theory, research and practice, the humanities and the natural and behavioral sciences to provide a basis for professional nursing practice. Respond to environmental factors that influence the health of individuals, families and communities. Collaborate with clients and colleagues in the process of identifying and organizing resources for the effective provision of health care. Demonstrate professional behaviors that reflect accountability and commitment in nursing practice. 3

4 Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability It is the policy of Edgewood College to ensure that no qualified person shall, solely by reason of disability, be excluded from participation in, or be denied benefits of, any program or activity operated by Edgewood College. It is the responsibility of the student seeking services to provide all necessary information and documentation of special requirements for assistance well in advance of actual need for those services. It is recommended that all information be submitted 30 days prior to the beginning of a semester. Requests for some services such as text taping and brailling may require more notice. Services for students with disabilities are coordinated through the Student Resource Center, Room 206, DeRicci. American Nurses Association Standards of Practice Standard I. Assessment Collects comprehensive data pertinent to the patient s health or the situation. Standard II. Diagnosis Analyzes the assessment data to determine the diagnosis or issues. Standard III. Outcome Identification Identifies expected outcomes for a plan individualized to the patient or the situation. Standard IV. Planning Develops a plan that prescribes strategies and alternatives to attain expected outcomes. Standard V. Implementation Implements the identified plan. Elaborating this standard includes: A) Coordination of care; B) Health teaching and health promotion; C) Consultation; D) Prescriptive authority; and E) Treatment and evaluation. Standard VI. Evaluation Evaluates progress towards attainment of outcomes. Standards of Professional Performance Standard VII. Quality of Practice Systematically enhances the quality and effectiveness of nursing practice. Standard VIII. Education Attains knowledge and competency that reflects current nursing practice. Standard IX. Professional Practice Evaluation Evaluates one s own nursing practice in relation to professional practice standards and guidelines, relevant statutes, rules, and regulations. Standard X. Collegiality Interacts with and contributes to the professional development of peers and colleagues. Standard XI. Collaboration Collaborates with patient, family, and others in the conduct of nursing practice. Standard XII. Ethics Integrates ethical provisions in all areas of practice. Standard XIII. Research 4

5 Integrates research findings into practice. Standard XIV. Resource Utilization Considers factors related to safety, effectiveness, cost, and impact on practice in the planning and delivery of nursing services. Standard XV. Leadership Provides leadership in the professional practice setting and the profession. (Reprinted with permission from the American Nurses Association. 2004, Standards of Clinical Nursing Practice, Washington, DC) Code of Ethics for Nurses 1. The nurse, in all professional relationships, practices with compassion and respect for the inherent dignity, worth, and uniqueness of every individual, unrestricted by considerations of social or economic status, personal attributes, or the nature of health problems. 2. The nurse's primary commitment is to the patient, whether an individual, family, group, or community. 3. The nurse promotes, advocates for, and strives to protect the health, safety, and rights of the patient. 4. The nurse is responsible and accountable for individual nursing practice and determines the appropriate delegation of tasks consistent with the nurse's obligation to provide optimum patient care. 5. The nurse owes the same duties to self as to others, including the responsibility to preserve integrity and safety, to maintain competence, and to continue personal and professional growth. 6. The nurse participates in establishing, maintaining, and improving healthcare environments and conditions of employment conducive to the provision of quality health care and consistent with the values of the profession through individual and collective action. 7. The nurse participates in the advancement of the profession through contributions to practice, education, administration, and knowledge development. 8. The nurse collaborates with other health professionals and the public in promoting community, national, and international efforts to meet health needs. 9. The profession of nursing, as represented by associations and their members, is responsible for articulating nursing values, for maintaining the integrity of the profession and its practice, and for shaping social policy. (Reprinted with permission from the Wisconsin Nurses Association) Please refer to the Code of Professional Conduct Found on the SofN website: DEGREES OFFERED The School of Nursing offers a program leading to either the BS or BA degree with a major in nursing. There are 128 credits required for graduation, of which 49 are in the Nursing Major. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and approved by the Wisconsin Board of Nursing. Policies for Admission to the Nursing Program Students are admitted to the nursing major in both Fall and Spring semesters. Students must apply for admission to the nursing major by February 1 for Fall enrollment and by October 1 for Spring enrollment. All students must complete the formal application process. Application is through Nursing CAS. A student is limited to filing no more than three (3) applications for admission to the School of Nursing. 5

6 General Admission Policies Students must complete 45 credits, including the courses listed below or their transfer equivalent, to meet eligibility requirements for admission to the nursing program: English 110, College Writing (W-Tag) Math 121 (M-Tag) Psychology 101, General Psychology (J-Tag) Foreign Language (2 semesters of college level or 2 years of high school level) (L-Tag) Four of the following science courses: Chemistry 110 or 120 (must be completed or in progress at time of application) Biology 155 (preferred) or Chemistry 111 (must be completed or in progress at time of application) Two semesters of Anatomy & Physiology (BIO 210 & 211) Microbiology including lab component (BIO 312 or equivalent) Students must have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75 on all previous undergraduate college work. Students must have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75 on all required science and math courses, with no grade less than C. The number of admissions to the program may be limited by College or School of Nursing policies. If there are fewer qualified students than spaces available, applications will continue to be accepted until available slots are filled. Current CPR certification, physical exam, health data, CNA certification and background checks are required upon admission to the nursing program. The required documentation is to be submitted according to the School of Nursing protocol. Students are responsible for all costs incurred. Students are responsible for their own transportation for all nursing course activities. Edgewood College s School of Nursing and all clinical agencies under contract to the School of Nursing require that every student and faculty member have a background check completed BEFORE entry into the nursing major program. (Students are responsible for payment of the required fees). Students are responsible for notifying the School of Nursing of any criminal charges or convictions that occur while they are progressing through the program. Students who have been convicted of certain types of offenses may not be able to participate in clinical placements and therefore will not be eligible to earn a degree in nursing. It is also possible that a student may not be eligible for licensure by the State of Wisconsin or another state licensing authority if certain types of criminal offenses are identified in the background check. Random drug checks may be done in clinical agencies throughout the duration of a student s clinical experiences. Policies for Repeating Courses In accordance with college policy, a student may choose to repeat a course taken at Edgewood College to improve a poor or failing grade (according to institutional policy, courses taken initially at Edgewood can only be replaced by repeating that course again at Edgewood College). Both earned grades are included in the overall GPA computation by the College. An academic cumulative GPA of 2.75 is required for admission to the nursing major, and an academic GPA of 2.5 is required for progression in the nursing major. If a nursing or pre-nursing student repeats a required science or math course, the most recent grade will be used to compute the math/science GPA for entrance or progression in the nursing major. A cumulative GPA of 2.75 in supporting math and science courses is required for admission to the nursing major and a cumulative GPA of 2.5 must be maintained in all required science and nursing courses for progression in the nursing major. 6

7 A course required for the nursing major may be repeated only once for GPA calculation in the nursing major. In accordance with college policy, repeated courses are counted only once in total credits earned. A grade of C or better is necessary in each required science, math, and nursing course. All other policies for admission and progression remain the same as published in the Edgewood College Undergraduate Catalog. Progression in the Nursing Major Theory and clinical courses must be taken concurrently. If extenuating circumstances prevent this, the clinical must be taken the following semester. If this does not occur, the School of Nursing may require additional course work for the student. If nursing theory or clinical is interrupted for more than one semester, the School of Nursing may require the student to enroll in nursing Independent Study prior to progression into the next theory/clinical courses. Course work should be planned to ensure that graduation occurs no later than the semester following the completion of the required nursing courses. Students who do not meet this timeline will need to present their situation to the School of Nursing. Standardized Assessment The School of Nursing participates in an assessment process that compares our students with other nursing students across the country. The computerized examinations, completed at regular intervals throughout the curriculum, provide benchmarks for student performance in critical thinking, nursing process, therapeutic communication, pharmacology, maternal-child, psychosocial, medical/surgical and community health nursing. The results are useful in preparing students to take the national licensing examination after graduation. An additional fee for the assessments is added to the tuition bill for each nursing theory course. Student abilities in meeting other program objectives are evaluated throughout the program of study. REQUIREMENTS TO MEET THE DEGREE General Education Requirements: Prerequisites to be completed before entering NRS 210/211 ENG 110 College Writing (W-Tag) Math 121 (M-tag) Foreign Language (L-Tag) PSYCH 101 (J-Tag) Four of the following science courses: Chemistry 110 (preferred) or 120 Biology 155 (preferred) or Chemistry 111 Two semesters of Anatomy & Physiology (BIO 210 & 211 or equivalent) Microbiology including lab component (BIO 312 or equivalent) Transfer Students: Students who have earned a baccalaureate degree in another field from a regionally accredited institution and enrolled prior to Spring 2011 have fulfilled the general education requirements for Edgewood College, except Foreign Language, Religious Studies and COR 3. Post-baccalaureate students must also meet all the School of Nursing requirements for supporting courses in math, science, psychology, and social sciences. 7

8 General Education Requirements for Transfer Students ENG 110 College Writing PHIL 101 Logic: Critical Thinking Math 101 or Math 111 Intro to Problem Solving OR College Algebra CA101 Speech Foreign Language (2 semesters of college level or 2 years of high school level) A course in literature (F1) A course in aesthetics or history of art, music, or theatre (F2) A studio arts course (F3) A history course (F6) A course in philosophy (F7) A course in religious studies (F8) The computer proficiency requirement is fulfilled in NRS 210/211. Human Issues General Education Requirements for Students COR 1 Introduction to a Dominican Liberal Education (year 1) COR 2 Pathways to Engagement (year 2 or 3) COR 3 Integrating for the Common Good (year 4) CORNERSTONES Nursing 210/211 (I-Tag) ENG 110 College Writing (W-Tag) PHIL 101 Logic Practice of Critical Thinking (T-Tag) Math 121 Statistics (M-tag) COMMS 100 Introduction to Communication (O-Tag) Foreign Language (L-Tag) PSYCH 101 (J-Tag) ENRICHED CORNERSTONES Enriched Oral Communication (K-Tag) Enriched Critical Thinking (U-Tag) Enriched Writing (X-Tag) WAYS OF KNOWING Art History/Appreciation (A-Tag) Studio Art (B-Tag) Literature (C-Tag) History (H-Tag) Religious Studies (R-Tag) Lab Science (S-Tag) Non-Lab Science (V-Tag) Additional J-, S-, or V- Tag PERSPECTIVES ON THE WORLD Multi-cultural (D-Tag) Environmental (E-Tag) Global (G-Tag) Gender (Q-Tag) Additional D-, E-, G-, L-, Q- or D-Tag 8

9 Professional Major Requirements Courses that support the major CHEM 110 Chemistry I Prerequisite for NRS 210/211 BIO 155 Human Cell Biology and Genetics Prerequisite for NRS 210/211 BIO 210 Anatomy and Physiology I Prerequisite for 210/211 BIO 211 Anatomy and Physiology II Must be completed concurrently or prior to NRS 210/211 BIO 312 Microbiology with Lab Must be completed concurrently or prior to NRS 210/211 BIO 410 Pathology Must be completed concurrently or prior to NRS 310/311 PSYCH 345 Life Span Psychology Must be completed concurrently or prior to NRS 340/341 Nursing NRS 210 Foundations of Professional Nursing NRS 211 Caring: Nursing Assessment and Intervention NRS 310 Professional Nursing: Adult Health NRS 311 Caring: Adult Health Nursing NRS 312 Pharmacology NRS 315 Caring: Nursing Skills Lab NRS 340 Professional Nursing: Long Term Health Issues NRS 341 Collaborative Practice in Long Term Care NRS 390 Research in Professional Nursing NRS 410 Professional Nursing: Families in Transition NRS 411 Caring: Families in Transition NRS 412 Leadership within the Health Care System NRS 440 Adult Health: Advanced Concepts in Acute Care NRS 460 Professional Nursing: Health of Communities NRS 461 Nursing Care with Aggregates 9

10 SAMPLE SCHEDULE OF COURSES 128 TOTAL CREDITS REQUIRED STUDENTS WHO HAVE SATISFIED THE FOREIGN LANGUAGE REQUIREMENT IN HIGH SCHOOL* Semester I Fall CHEM cr PHIL cr MATH cr ENG cr COR I..3 cr Total...17 cr Semester III Fall BIO 210 (A & P I)...4 cr BIO 312 (Microbiology)...4 cr Choose from General Education Tags cr Total cr Semester V Fall NRS 312 (Pharmacology)...2 cr BIO 410 (Pathology)...3 cr NRS 310 (Adult Health)...4 cr NRS 311 (Clinical: Adult)...4 cr NRS 315 (Clinical Lab).1 cr COR II.3 cr Total...17 cr Semester VII Fall Choose from General Education Tag...4 cr NRS 410 (Families in Transition)...4 cr NRS 411 (Clinical: Families)...4 cr NRS 412 (Leadership)...3 cr Total...15 cr Semester II Spring BIO cr PSY cr COMMS 100 (Speech)...3 cr Choose from General Education Tags cr Total cr Semester IV Spring BIO 211 (A & P II)...4 cr PSY 345 (Life-Span)...4 cr NRS 210 (Foundations)...3 cr NRS 211 (Assessment)...3 cr Choose from General Education Tags cr Total cr Semester VI Spring NRS 340 (Long Term Health)...4 cr NRS 341 (Clinical: Long Term)...4 cr NRS 390 (Research)...3 cr Choose from General Education Tags 5-6 cr Total cr Semester VIII Spring NRS 460 (Community Health)...4 cr NRS 461 (Clinical: Community)..4 cr NRS 440 (Advanced Concepts)...2 cr Choose from General Education Tags cr Total cr Please Note: Students who have not satisfied Edgewood College s foreign language requirement are advised to finish the 8-credit sequence during their first two semesters. (Retroactive Foreign Language credits may be awarded [see College Catalog]). Elective credits may be needed to complete the 128 credits required for graduation. Taking some Summer or Winterim courses could lighten loads in Fall and Spring semesters. 10

11 Attendance in Nursing Courses Students enrolled in the Nursing major are expected to attend all classes and laboratories in order to fulfill credit requirements for each course. In the event of an absence from clinical, students will be required to make up incomplete learning experiences as determined by the clinical instructor. Academic Integrity As members of a scholarly community dedicated to healthy intellectual development, students and faculty at Edgewood College are expected to share the responsibility for maintaining high standards of honesty and integrity in their academic work. Each student should reflect this sense of responsibility toward the community by submitting work that is a product of his or her own effort in a particular course, unless the instructor has directed otherwise. In order to clarify and emphasize its standards for academic honesty, the School of Nursing enforces the Academic Honesty Policy adopted by the College (See College Catalog). The following are examples of violations of standards for academic honesty and are subject to academic sanctions: Cheating on exams; submitting collaborative work as one s own; falsifying records, achievements, field or laboratory data, or other course work; stealing examinations or course materials; submitting work previously submitted in another course, unless specifically approved by the present instructor; falsifying documents or signing an instructor s or administrator s name to any document or form; plagiarism; or aiding another student in any of the above actions. In addition, students at all times must take care to protect the privacy of patients and clients according to the rules established under current HIPPA regulations. Failure to do so will be regarded as unethical or unprofessional conduct and a violation of the Academic Honesty Policy of the College. Such violations will be subject to sanctions to the same extent and degree as violations of academic honesty. Also see the Code of Professional Conduct. Suspension from Clinical Settings A student may be suspended without warning from a clinical setting for any of the following: Inability to engage fully in clinical/laboratory experience for health reasons. Failure to achieve or maintain health requirements, current CPR, or other requirements specified in contracts between the School of Nursing and Affiliating Clinical Sites. Unsafe, unethical, illegal, or unprofessional conduct. Evidence of inadequate preparation The suspension may result in failure to continue in the current clinical setting, failure to progress to the next clinical course, or dismissal from the major. 11

12 Dismissal from the Nursing Major A student may be dismissed from the School of Nursing for any of the following reasons: 1. Failure to meet the academic standards. 2. Behavior which is contrary to the ethical code of the nursing profession. This includes any violations against current HIPPA regulations. APPEALS Student appeals are limited to requests to continue in the major, or for grades that impact student progression in the School of Nursing. Any student who feels he/she has cause for appeal may initiate the appeal process. Appeal Procedure Prior to initiating the appeal process a student should make every effort to resolve the situation with the course faculty most immediately and directly involved. If the concern is unresolved, it is expected that the student will contact with his/her academic advisor to explore other options. I. If the student chooses to initiate the appeal process, he/she must submit a written letter requesting an appeal to the Dean of the School of Nursing. A written appeal must be filed with the Dean of the School of Nursing within 10 business days of the date of the letter notifying the student that s/he is being dismissed from the program, or the right to appeal is denied. The student s letter to the Dean must include the following information: 1. Precise grounds on which the appeal is based; 2. Circumstances associated with the appeal; 3. Rationale supporting the appeal, including student attempts to resolve the situation prior to requesting an appeal; 4. Description of proposed specific remedial actions to be taken to improve the student s academic performance. II. The Dean of the School of Nursing will submit the student s request for an appeal hearing to the Chair of the Student Appeals Committee no later than five business days after receiving the request for the appeal. III. Within five business days of receiving the appeal request, the committee will determine whether or not a hearing is justified. IV. If a hearing is not granted: A. The committee chairperson will provide written rationale to the Dean. B. The Dean will then notify the student in writing of the final decision. V. If a hearing is granted: A. The committee chairperson will notify the student of the time, date, and location of the hearing. The committee will have access to the student s record and to other pertinent written or verbal information such as the student s advising file. B. The student is encouraged, although not required, to attend the hearing which will result in a 12

13 recommendation to the Dean concerning his or her progression in the nursing program. C. If the student chooses to attend the hearing, s/he is permitted to bring one support person. The name and relationship of that person to the student must be furnished in writing to the committee chair at least two business days prior to the hearing. An Edgewood College Faculty member is not allowed to be a support person or to submit a letter of support. D. During the hearing, the student will be invited to provide additional information to the committee or to answer specific questions from the Appeals Committee. Once the Appeals Committee has sought and received any needed clarification of the appeal, the student and support person will be excused while the committee goes into closed session for deliberation. E. Audio-taping or videotaping any portion of the meeting is not permitted. VI. The Appeal Committee s recommendation for resolution of the student appeal will be forwarded in writing from the committee Chair to the Dean of the School of Nursing within 5 business days of the hearing. VII. The Dean of the School of Nursing will consider the committee s recommendation in making the final decision regarding the disposition of the student appeal. VIII. The Dean of the School of Nursing will notify the student in writing of this final decision within 5 business days of receiving the committee s recommendation. If the student chooses to appeal the final decision, s/he is referred to the section on appeals in the Edgewood College Student Handbook. Student Complaints and Review/Maintenance of Records A student who has a complaint related specifically to his or her experience in the Nursing program should consult with the course instructor in an attempt to arrive at a resolution of the issue. Student should present the complaint verbally and in writing to the course faculty. Faculty is responsible for documentation of a bona fide complaint. The student should discuss the matter with the Dean of the School of Nursing if the matter is not resolved successfully with the course instructor. The Dean is responsible for disposition and documentation of the complaint. Records will be maintained by the Dean for a period of five years following the student s graduation or leaving the program. If not resolved at the School of Nursing level, the student may discuss the matter with the Academic Dean or Associate Dean for Graduate Studies as appropriate. Academic Advisement Nursing students are assigned a nursing faculty member as their advisor when they are admitted to the major. Frequent contact with your advisor is encouraged. Course planning for each semester is done with the advisor. Other matters students may wish to discuss with their advisor include: curriculum outline and overall program plan degree requirements 13

14 policies and procedures academic progress, including Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI) test results adjustment to the professional role Edgewood and community support services Individual interests and goals Background Checks Students are required to complete an on-line criminal background check for admission to the nursing program. The School of Nursing Dean may determine the need to request completion of additional background checks. Health Requirement (View tracker guidelines on CertifiedBackground.com) The following health requirements must be met PRIOR TO beginning classes in NRS 210/211. Physical examination (within 6 months of admission to the School of Nursing) Tuberculin skin test (within past 12 months) Documentation of a QuantiFERON Gold test if tuberculin skin test is positive Current tetanus immunization (within 10 years) MMR-2 doses required Varicella immune status or 2 doses of vaccine Hepatitis B (If this immunization series is not completed prior to admission to NRS 211, it must be in process. If the student declines the immunization, a declination form must be signed.) The tuberculin test is required annually. If additional health requirements are specified by clinical agencies, students placed in those agencies are responsible for meeting those health requirements. All health requirements are to be obtained through the student s health care provider or the campus health clinic at their own expense. The School of Nursing Health Record must be submitted to CertifiedBackground.com PRIOR to the first day of class. CPR Requirement Students must be certified in CPR for the Healthcare Professional PRIOR to the first clinical course (NRS 211) and must be kept current throughout their nursing program. Students are responsible for making their own arrangements to enroll in a CPR course; the course must be for Health Care Providers. Students will upload CPR documentation to CertifiedBackground.com PRIOR to the first day of class. Certification time limit is determined by the certifying agency. CNA Certification Students must be certified as Nursing Assistants PRIOR to the first clinical course (Nursing 211). Students will upload their certification to CertifiedBackground.com PRIOR to the first day of class. Documentation of successful completion of a Military medic course is also acceptable. Code of Professional Conduct Please find on the SofN website, read and sign the signature sheet (witnessed) and either upload to Certified Background or return to professor (listen for directions in class). Health and Accidental Injury Insurance This insurance is not provided by Edgewood College. Students are strongly advised to obtain insurance coverage independently. 14

15 Liability Insurance Nursing students are covered by minimal liability insurance through Edgewood College. However, the School of Nursing strongly encourages students to carry their own liability insurance coverage. Students must identify themselves as Edgewood College nursing students by wearing the appropriate uniform when they are in clinical agencies. Uniforms Students are expected to maintain a professional appearance for both functional and aesthetic reasons. Students engaged in nursing clinical experiences are expected to comply with the dress code requirements of Edgewood College School of Nursing. The dress code may vary with selected clinical field trips or conferences; faculty will inform students of appropriate professional attire. Each student is responsible for purchasing the required uniform and Edgewood College name tag PRIOR TO beginning clinical. CLINICAL DRESS CODE Appropriate dress is required in all clinicals. A student may be excluded from clinical if s/he is noncompliant with the School of Nursing dress code. All Clinicals Edgewood College patch is to be sewn on left sleeve of all uniform tops, including white lab coat. Edgewood College name pin is to be worn on left chest of all uniform tops, including white lab coat. Shoes must have closed toe and heel; color must be appropriate to the clinical setting. Clogs are not acceptable. Nails: artificial/acrylic nails are not permitted; nails must be kept short and clean. Nail polish: only clear polish is acceptable. Rings only wedding/engagement rings are permitted. Earrings post or small hoops only; limited to two earrings per ear. Bracelets and necklaces none are permitted. Body piercings none other than the ear are acceptable. Tattoos no visible tattoos. Perfume should not be worn in clinical setting because it may be offensive or harmful to patients/clients. Uniforms and other clothing worn by students must be free of tobacco smoking odors when participating in all clinical activities. This includes presence in a health care facility for preparation of patient care. Faculty may suspend a student from the clinical setting for non-compliance with the dress code. (This will be counted as an unexcused absence). Students must be clearly shaven. If a full beard or mustache is worn, it must be neatly trimmed and groomed. Hair must be professional (in appearance color, cleanliness, and length). All Community Clinicals and All Participation in Clinical Activities Red polo shirt with Edgewood College patch sewn on left sleeve. A plain white crew/turtle neck may be worn under the red polo shirt in cold weather. Purchase from the Edgewood book store. A plain white, black or red long sleeved sweater (not sweatshirt) may be worn over the red polo shirt. Plain Khaki/Black pants or skirt; skirt must be knee length or longer; pants must be ankle length. 15

16 All items under All Clinicals apply. In-Patient Clinicals White scrub tops and bottoms; if a skirt is worn, it must be knee length to mid-calf. A plain white T-shirt must be worn under the scrub top. Underwear must provide adequate coverage and not show through clothing. Plain white lab coat must be worn over appropriate business casual wear (jeans or shorts are not permitted) when reporting to hospital for preparation prior to clinical time. Hose must be worn; socks must be white; nylons must be a neutral color Hair must be professional in appearance (color & length); it must be off the collar. All items under All Clinicals apply. The School of Nursing arm patch and student name pin are to be worn with the lab coat as well as with the uniform. The arm patch must be securely and neatly attached on the left uniform or lab coat sleeve, approximately 2 inches below the shoulder. The name pin should be worn on the left chest area. The name pin is to be a white pin with black lettering: Sue Brown Student Nurse Edgewood College The arm patch and name pin are ordered in the first nursing clinical course. Students are responsible for the cost of their patches, name pin and uniforms. If name pins need to be replaced, they must be ordered from Championship Awards. To purchase, Dan at dan.championshipawards.com or Indicate that you are an Edgewood College Nursing Student Specify whether you want to purchase a pin or magnet attaching name badge (Many students do not like the pin because it damages their scrub tops. Most faculty have a magnet name badge and they are very nice. The price is the same for either name badge.) Provide your first and last name (you may use a shortened version of your name such as Tom for Thomas or Kathy for Katherine, but NO cute nicknames!!!!) Include the shipping address for your name badge Expenses The School of Nursing participates in an assessment process that compares our students with other nursing students across the country. An additional fee for the assessments is added to the tuition charge for each nursing theory course. An additional tuition fee is charged to students enrolled in the clinical nursing courses. This fee is necessary due to costs related to clinical facilities, supplies, equipment and liability insurance. Transportation Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from clinical experiences and classes. Use of a car is required 1-2 days per week for some clinicals, especially in the sophomore and senior years. 16

17 Communications Students are urged to read the bulletin board next to the School of Nursing office, check and Blackboard regularly for information about registration, course requirements, meetings and items of general interest. Students and faculty mailboxes and are used for communications. All nursing students must maintain an active Edgewood College address. The School of Nursing website is Edgewood College Student Nurses Association ECSNA is a volunteer student organization comprised of nursing students and a faculty advisor. ECSNA meetings are held once or twice a month to plan activities, answer students questions, and to promote nursing at Edgewood College. SNA is organized on the local (Edgewood SNA), state (WSNA), and national (NSNA) levels. Members of the local SNA may join at the other levels. Benefits include: Eligibility for NSNA scholarships. Imprint, the only national magazine published for and by nursing students. Reduced rates for the American Journal of Nursing. Reduced registration fees for WSNA, NSNA, WNA (Wisconsin Nurses Association), and ANA (American Nurses Association) conventions. All nursing students are encouraged to join the SNA at Edgewood College. Contact a member of ECSNA or the faculty advisor in the School of Nursing for more information. Participation in School of Nursing Governance A minimum of one student will be selected as a representative to faculty meetings. Student representatives will have one vote each but will not be included in constituting a quorum. Faculty meetings are open and may be attended by students other than representatives or by other interested persons. At times when individual students, faculty or potential faculty are discussed, meetings may be closed to all expect the faculty members. By majority vote of attending faculty members, meetings may be closed at other times for any reasons. Student representation is also encouraged on SoN standing committees. Changes in Policy Students will be notified of any policy changes through personal or written communication, School of Nursing website, or ECSNA. GRADUATE AREAS OF PRACTICE Students graduating with a Baccalaureate degree in nursing from Edgewood College are employed in multiple areas of practice. Most of the graduates find employment in hospital or clinic setting as patient care providers. Approximately half of the graduates practice in the medical-surgical areas. The remaining graduates practice in a variety of clinical areas, including maternal-child, geriatric, public health and home health nursing. 17

18 SATISFACTION OF GRADUATES Survey results indicate that the graduates of Edgewood College feel well prepared for the area in which they are currently practicing. There are three areas that have been consistently rated high in terms of the effectiveness of the nursing program at Edgewood. The areas identified are: the ability to establish effective therapeutic relationships, assessing an adequate knowledge base, and the ability to utilize critical thinking skills for clinical decision making. Employer surveys results have also been positive. Graduates of the program have been identified as well prepared in the above areas. The employer survey also indicated that the graduates are accountable and committed to their nursing practice. MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING Message from the Graduate Program Director We welcome your interest in the graduate nursing program at Edgewood College. For years, our graduate program has offered two concentrations that are not offered at many colleges and universities: Nursing Education and Nursing Administration. These programs are designed to address the needs of working professionals, with course offerings in the evenings to accommodate busy schedules. Each concentration is 36 credits, with course offerings in the fall, spring and summer semesters. Students from each concentration have an opportunity to interact while taking courses in the core curriculum. Specialty courses in the Nursing Education program focus on planning and delivering education programs, curriculum design, teaching strategies and interpersonal competency. Individuals who are interested in this program often apply their degree in the areas of patient/family education, staff development, clinical instruction, community health education, as well as preparing and delivering lectures and courses in a college setting. Specialty courses in the Nursing Administration program focus on managing healthcare systems, roles of the executive in a health setting, business communication, organizational behavior, and healthcare finance. Offerings include MBA courses through the School of Business. Application of this degree is often seen in healthcare management roles, executive administration, as well as in program planning and evaluation. In addition, the graduate nursing programs at Edgewood College offer a practicum opportunity that expose students in a concentrated experience of interest. Our students and alumni have assumed leadership roles in education and administration throughout our community. Graduates have also been successful in becoming certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. We are proud of all of them, and welcome you to our program. Certificates Edgewood College also provides opportunities for students to take a cohesive selection of graduate courses in Nursing Education or Nursing Administration. These courses are designed to offer theoretical 18

19 knowledge, critical thinking skills and successful application in a practicum setting for individuals who are previously prepared at the master s or doctoral level. Graduates are prepared in areas to support success in becoming certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Nursing Education This program is designed for nursing professionals who want to be better prepared to teach clients, staff and students. It provides students with additional preparation in educational principles and theory to support them in their teaching roles. Courses focus on areas such as planning education programs or courses, teaching strategies and interpersonal competency in communication with others. Nursing Administration The Nursing Administration certificate program is designed for individuals who are, or are planning on becoming middle to executive level nurse leaders. Courses focus on managing in health systems, healthcare finance, administration roles, business communication and organizational behavior. Courses in the MBA program are integrated in this certificate offering. The Master of Science in Nursing degree is a 36 credit program designed to develop nurses into leaders with advanced knowledge, humanistic values and the ability to contribute to the changing, diverse health care environment in a variety of settings. The program will offer students the options of earning a Master s degree with a concentration in Nursing Administration or Nursing Education. The courses in the nursing education concentration prepare nurses as health educators or clinical nursing educators, or to work in the context of staff development. Graduate Admission Information Applicants seeking admission to the Nursing Program must fulfill the graduate program admission requirements, with the following additional stipulations: Baccalaureate degree with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (4.0 scale) from a nursing program accredited by a national nursing accreditation program Current license to practice as a registered professional nurse Minimum of one year full time experience as a registered nurse or equivalent Completion of undergraduate course in statistics within the last 3 years (can be completed concurrently within first year of course work). Health Requirements Before entering the nursing practicum (NRS 735), students must provide evidence of meeting the SoN health requirements. Background Check Students must complete Background Information Disclosure forms before entry into the Nursing Practicum (NRS 735). Students are responsible for the costs incurred. 19

20 Course Scheduling Nursing courses are offered every 18 months. Business, education and interdisciplinary courses are offered every semester, including summer. Students entering at the beginning of an 18-month sequence can complete the program in three years by taking two courses each semester. DEGREE AND PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS A total of 36 credits are required for the graduate degree in nursing. Required courses for all Master of Science in Nursing include: NRS 600 NRS 620 NRS 625 NRS 660 NRS 735 NRS 725 IC 800 Assessment and Planning for Aggregates Nursing Theories and Frameworks Health Systems Research Methods in Program Evaluation Nursing Practicum Applied Research in Program Evaluation Ethics Specialty Courses for Master of Science with a Concentration in Nursing Administration Include: NRS 615 NRS 635 NRS 645 BUS 601 BUS 603 Health Care Finance Managing the Nursing System Roles and Strategies of Nursing Administrator Executive Communication Organizational Behavior Specialty Courses for Master of Science with a Concentration in Nursing Education Include: NRS 636 NRS 605 NRS 640 NRS 675 IC 850 Promoting Interpersonal Competency Teaching/Learning Theory Curriculum and Instruction in Nursing Teaching Methodologies Studies in Change GRADING POLICY FOR UNDERGRADUATE/GRADUATE COURSES Clinical courses are graded Pass/Fail. Theory courses use the following scale: A % AB 90-94% B 85-89% BC 80-84% C 75-79% D 70-74% F 0-69% 20