Merced College Registered Nursing Program. Application Handbook

Transcription

1 Merced College Registered Nursing Program Application Handbook Enrollment Policies and Application Forms Revised Spring 2015 Applications for Fall 2015 & Spring 2016 will be accepted during the dates & times listed below ONLY absolutely no exceptions: March 10, 11, 12, :30am 12:00pm & 1:00pm 3:00 pm The Allied Health Office room 126 will be closed from 12:00pm-1:00pm Applicants applying to the program a second time must fill out the Enrollment Application located on page 31. The applicant will be responsible for updating any other information that may change their point total and must comply with local and/or statement requirements.

2 Table of Contents Preface... 2 Introduction... 3 Merced College... 3 Mission... 3 Vision Statement... 3 Core values and Beliefs... 3 Institutional Student Learning Outcomes... 3 Registered Nursing... 4 Registered Nursing Program... 5 Philosophy and Objectives... 5 Program Student Learning Outcomes... 7 Registered Nursing Associate in Science Degree Curriculum... 8 Mission Statement... 8 Nursing, Registered... 8 Associate of Science Degree Program Requirements... 8 Prerequisites Comparison Grid Program Application Process Selection Process Multiple Applications Requirements for Accepted Applicants Only Preassessment Testing Requirement LVN to RN Pathway LVN to RN 30 Unit Option Transfer Minimum Requirements for Selection Step by Step Procedure for Application Acceptance General Information for Nursing Applicants Appendices Core Performance Standards Policy Statement on Denial of Licensure Grid of Comparable Prerequisite Courses Application Forms Check-Off Sheet Enrollment Application Request for Transcripts Prerequisite Course Equivalency Form Acknowledgement of Student Responsibilities Scoring Rubric Criteria I Criteria II Criteria III Criteria IV Criteria V

3 Preface The Registered Nursing Applicant Handbook is revised annually and is designed to provide information that will assist the applicant in becoming better acquainted with the policies and procedures governing entry into the nursing programs. As it is revised annually, the applicant is responsible for determining how the revisions, if any, would affect their application. The RN Admission Selection Criteria are approved by the College s Curriculum Committee and Board of Trustees. These requirements are part of a statewide plan coordinated through the California Community Colleges Chancellor s Office. The Merced College Catalog contains information about academic policies and course descriptions. It should be read in conjunction with this Handbook and is available at the Merced College Bookstore. Merced College reserves the right to revise A.S. Degree Requirements and the selection procedure at any point. It is the applicant s responsibility to keep informed of the specific requirements and selection procedure for which they will be evaluated. Program planning, advising, and career counseling are provided by the Guidance and Counseling Division. We urge the applicant to utilize their services early on in the career planning process. Appointments for counseling may be made by telephoning (209) The application, selection, and admission processes for the nursing programs are coordinated by the Allied Health Division and any inquiries regarding entry should be directed to this office by telephoning (209) , (209) or (209)

4 Introduction MERCED COLLEGE Merced College, founded in 1962, is a two year community college located in the central San Joaquin Valley. The College s mission, vision, core values and beliefs, and institutional student learning outcomes acknowledge the importance of meeting the needs of our students and contributing to an educated community. Mission Students are our focus and we are known by their success. Vision Statement Students are our focus at Merced College. We set high standards to encourage students to reach their highest potential in a supportive environment. Diversity is a strength of our institution. Merced College is a leader in instruction and cultural activities. We value and respect all members of our community. We are known by the success of our students. Core values and Beliefs Students past, present, and future are the focus of Merced College. Fostering diversity is a strength of the institution. Merced College establishes high standards and provides a challenging education to encourage students to reach their highest potential. Merced College respects and values all members of its community. Merced College serves the community by responding to cultural, educational, economic development, and technological needs. Merced College provides a supportive and fulfilling environment Institutional Student Learning Outcomes Communication: Use language and non-verbal modes of expression appropriate to the audience and purpose. (GE Breadth Areas A and C) Computation: Use mathematical skills and various aspects of technology appropriate to the task. (GE Breadth Areas A and B) Cognition: Use critical thinking skills to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate ideas and information. (GE Breadth Areas A, B and C) Global and Community Consciousness and Responsibility: Demonstrate understanding of different cultures and knowledge of historical eras and importance of community involvement. (GE Breadth Areas D) Personal Development and Life-Long Learning: Demonstrate self-management, maturity, and growth through practices that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. (GE Breadth Area E) 3

5 To fulfill these beliefs and outcomes, the College requires all candidates for the associate degree to complete a specified number of courses in the Social, Behavioral, Biological, and Physical Sciences, Humanistic Studies, and Language Arts. The Nursing Program requirements identify courses from all of these disciplines that compliment the nursing curriculum. Merced College confers the Associate in Science Degree to students successfully completing the Associate Degree requirements and the Registered Nurse curriculum. The graduate is then entitled to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX/RN). Registered Nursing Changes in health care delivery are occurring rapidly. California is currently experiencing a severe nursing shortage. The demand for Registered Nurses in rural areas such as Merced and surrounding counties is expected to continue. The projected growth of Merced County coupled with an increased aging population, rapid expansion of long-term care, and the need for more primary care will result in the demand for a variety of health care providers, especially Registered Nurses. The program provides three basic enrollment options outlined within this handbook: the two year Registered Nursing Program, the one year LVN to RN Associate Degree Program, and the LVN to RN Non-Degree option. Information regarding transfer, advanced placement, and reentering students can be found under the "General Information for Nursing Applicants" section. Application and selection procedures are based on the premise that applicants make a commitment to the program for which they are selected. Applicants are therefore encouraged to apply to a program only if they are serious in their intent to complete the program. Students in progress in the LVN program will not be considered for RN program enrollment. A person may apply for both the RN and LVN programs when entry dates coincide and if minimum prerequisite requirements have been met for both programs. The selection for each program is handled independently and in the event of being selected for both programs, the applicant will have a limited time to choose which program to enter. A person, who has been dismissed from an RN or other Allied Health program for behaviors posing a serious threat to patient safety are ineligible for enrollment in any Allied Health Nursing Program. 4

6 Registered Nursing Program RN Program Application Philosophy and Objectives The Registered Nursing program is an integral part of Merced College and as such, shares the same values and aspirations. Community service is of primary importance. We, the Nursing faculty, believe that we can best serve our community by educating it's future Registered Nurses to a recognized standard of excellence. We are committed to the paradigm of student success and accept our responsibility for mutual respect, combined with humor and good will. We honor the cultural diversity of our community and actively encourage enrollment in our program by members of all its groups. We accept the premise of the interrelationship of all knowledge, and accordingly, place strong emphasis on general education. The Merced College Graduate Nurse is educated for full participation in the life of the community, both professionally and as a citizen. We Believe That Health: Is a complex, dynamic process which includes physical, social and psychological elements and involves the total human being interacting with the environment. Is "a state of complete physical, mental and social well being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity" as stated by World Health Organization. Is a dynamic equilibrium on the health illness continuum. We Believe That A Person: Is an integrated whole. "No one aspect of a person can be maintained without regard for other specific physiological, psychological and social facets of the person." (World Health Organization) Has basic human needs which exist throughout the life cycle. Is capable of change and adaptation. Is greater than the sum of his/her parts. Is part of a family and cultural group. Is an open system which responds to internal and external stimuli to maintain homeostasis. Is constantly interacting with the environment. Is an active participant in his/her own destiny. Possesses creative power, is not helpless or hopeless, and has an inherent right to be treated with dignity. We Believe That Nursing: Is an individualized process of caring for and supporting people as they progress through the spectrum of health and illness. Is committed to and accountable for the delivery of patient centered care through the nursing process. Utilizes the nursing process for assessing health care problems, establishing nursing diagnosis, planning and instituting goal oriented nursing interventions, as well as critically evaluating the effectiveness of that care on a continual basis. Supports the dignity and worth of each individual and preserves their right to individualized, respectful, and ethical care. 5

7 Practices include patient advocacy and participates in communication of all aspects of patient care and the coordination of that care. Promotes patients and their significant others as active participants in the development, implementation and evaluation of their own care. Assists each patient in utilizing problem solving skills to reach his/her health related goals. Is responsible for providing health teaching so optimum levels of functioning can be actualized. We Believe That Professional Nursing Education: Has a foundational knowledge base derived from natural, social, behavioral and nursing sciences as well as life experiences. Affirms the values of all people from various cultural, social, ethnic and sexual orientation backgrounds. Prepares students to think critically, apply problem solving techniques and exercise leadership skills in planning, coordinating, implementing and evaluating patient care needs. Fosters an independent, highly motivated learner committed to continuous self growth and self evaluation. Recognizes the varied backgrounds and experience students contribute to the program and attempts to individualize instruction to meet each student s identified learning needs. Utilizes college wide support services which include: individualized tutoring, counseling, learning resource center, student ethnic and interest clubs, learning disability specialists, the child care center and financial aid. These exist on campus to meet individual needs and are evidence of the intent to maximize the success potential of each student. Provides organized laboratory and clinical learning experiences that reinforce application of scientific principles, enhance understanding, modify attitudes and develop skills of assessment, diagnosis, planning and implementing and evaluating individualized interventions. Produces program graduates who serve as providers of health care in diverse settings and actively participate in improving quality of care. 6

8 Program Student Learning Outcomes The Graduate Nurse: KNOWLEDGE a. Correlate pathophysiology to the nursing care of the patient. b. State scientific principles for dependent and independent nursing interventions. c. Make decisions that reflect logical reasoning and correlation of data to the nursing diagnosis. d. Incorporate knowledge of developmental levels into his/her nursing care. e. Identify how cultural differences of patients and families affect health care needs. COMMUNICATION a. Utilize therapeutic communication to obtain positive outcomes. b. Demonstrate planning and goal setting in interviewing patients and families. c. Collaborate with health team in planning nursing care. d. Accurately record and communicate changes in patient status to other members of the health team. NURSING PROCESS a. Utilize the nursing process for assessing health care problems, establishing nursing diagnosis, planning and instituting goal oriented nursing interventions and critically evaluating the effectiveness of that care on a continual basis. b. Provide individualized, organized and prioritized care for a comparable RN assignment in a safe, supportive environment. c. Include patient and their significant others as active participants in the development, implementation and evaluation of their own care. d. Will utilize critical thinking and problem solving to evaluate all patient needs and coordinate health care. e. Identify patient self care needs and establish a teaching plan in collaboration with available resources for health promotion and implement measures to reduce risk potential. ACCOUNTABILITY a. Have developed an awareness of her/his own individual code of ethics consistent with nursing professional standards. b. Be able to apply this code in solving ethical dilemmas of patient/family care. c. Apply leadership and management skills consistent with the requirements of an entry level position. d. Assume responsibility for continuing personal and professional growth to meet the needs of a changing profession in a changing society. e. Actively participate in improving the quality of care. f. Promote the adaptation of nursing care to meet culturally diverse needs. g. Act effectively as a patient/family advocate. 7

9 Registered Nursing Associate in Science Degree Curriculum All individuals who meet minimum enrollment requirements are eligible to apply to the nursing programs. Criteria and complete information on the selection process as well as the philosophy and objectives of each program are described in the Nursing Application Handbook which is available in the Merced College Bookstore and online. The handbook is extensive and may contain additional information to the following brief program outline. Completion of the Registered Nursing Program at Merced College and all requirements of the A.S. degree qualify students to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). (It is the student s responsibility to meet all requirements to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.) Mission Statement The mission of the Merced College Registered Nursing Program is to prepare our students for careers as professional Registered Nurses by providing a continually-improving educational program which is accredited by the CA Board of Registered Nursing and by instilling in our students a commitment to continued professional growth and lifelong learning. Nursing, Registered The Registered Nursing Program at Merced College prepares students to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), leading to licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN) and is designed to prepare competent nurses for service in the community. The Registered Nursing Program requires two academic years beyond the completion of the prerequisite courses and non-nursing breadth requirements. Graduates will earn the Associate of Science Degree upon completion of designated courses and competency requirements. Associate of Science Degree Program Requirements Prerequisites Courses: Units BIOL-16* General Human Anatomy 4 BIOL-20* Microbiology 4 BIOL-18* Principles of Physiology 4 ENGL-01A College Composition and Reading I 4 MATH C or higher Intermediate Algebra (or higher Math course) 4 8

10 Required Courses (Non Nursing) which also fulfill A.S. breadth requirements: Area A COMM 1, 4 or 5 3 Communication Area B Science Recommend Life Science course or CHEM-2A 3/4 Area C Humanities Any A.S. Breadth Humanity course 3 Area D1 Behavioral Recommend SOC-01 or ANTH-02 or PSYC 01A 3 Science Area D2 Social Recommend HIST-17A or 17B or POSC-01 3 Science Area E1 Integrated Recommend PSYC-09 or NUTR-10 3 Organism Area E2 Physical PHED activity courses 2 Education Required Courses (Nursing): First Semester REGN-15 Foundations of Nursing 9 REGN-18 Pharmacology in Nursing Practice 3 Second Semester REGN-24 Acute Medical/Surgical & Nursing of the Childbearing Family 10 Third Semester REGN-34 Advanced Medical/Surgical Nursing & Pediatric Nursing 10 REGN-02 Clinical Skills Transition LVN to RN 1 Fourth Semester REGN-44 Advanced Medical/Surgical Nursing & Mental Health Nursing 9 * It is highly recommended that once enrolled in these classes, students do not drop them. Program applicants need to understand that multiple attempts to improve grades earned in these classes can negatively affect their eligibility. Competencies as required by Merced College for graduation: Reading/Writing: Met by completion of ENGL-01A within program prerequisites with C or better. Math: Met by MATH-C or higher level math course with C or better. [Completion of the Registered Nursing Program at Merced College satisfies CILC area A through G] 9

11 Prerequisites Comparison Grid This grid represents catalog equivalent lower division pre/co-requisite coursework preparation for admission to the Registered Nursing Program at Merced College. It is published for informational purposes only. Although every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy, errors do occur. This is not considered an irrevocable contract between Merced College and the student. Merced College reserves the right to change provisions and descriptions at any time as this is considered work in progress, while taking precautions that such changes do not adversely affect enrolled students. Final acceptance of pre-nursing courses will be determined by the Nursing Department Admissions Committee. Students are advised to consult their college counselor for supplementary information. For coursework that does not appear on this grid, see a Guidance counselor at least ONE MONTH PRIOR to the application period. It is advisable to include a course outline and a syllabus along with official transcripts. Refer to grid on page 28. Students are responsible for ensuring all prerequisite courses meet equivalency for eligibility in the RN Program. 10

12 Program Application Process Applications are available from the division s website and the college bookstore. It is the applicant s responsibility to submit all required paperwork within the specified dates and times. Applications will be accepted during March, specifically during a 2 3 day window. Specific dates & times will be noted on the website. Up to 60 students will be accepted for the next academic year (1/2 for Fall and 1/2 for Spring based on grant funding). Selection Process The Merced College RN Program class selection process is determined using the multi-criteria screening process established by the California Community College Chancellor s office in accordance with AB A multi-criteria score is determined for each candidate based on previous degrees/certificates, work/volunteer experience in a healthcare setting, identified coursework GPA, life experience/special circumstances, foreign language proficiency and TEAS V assessment score. Ten percent of the available seats in the program will be offered to students with the highest points. The remaining seats will be chosen by random selection lottery from the pool of applicants meeting the minimum qualification. These students will be sequentially numbered from one to the maximum allowed for the in-coming class, including a predetermined number of alternate students. Depending on the number of qualified applicants and constraints of the Chancellor s Office multi-criteria screening model, the selection pool will vary in size from semester to semester. The minimum qualification for application includes a 2.5 GPA in Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, English 01A and Math C (or higher). Minimum qualification also includes a composite score of at least 62 on the TEAS V test. Students not meeting these minimum qualifications are ineligible to apply. Multiple Applications There is no waiting list maintained for the R.N. Program. Applicants applying to the program a second time must fill out the Enrollment Application located on page 31. The applicant will be responsible for updating any other information that may change their point total and must comply with local and/or statement requirements. It is possible to be accepted into the qualified selection pool more than once during a selection period. If an applicant has applied to the program more than once consecutively, the applicant s name will be added to the application pool an additional time for each such application. An applicant is considered qualified for this purpose if all admission requirements have been met, the applicant meets minimum qualifications on the multi-criteria selection process, and a complete application packet has been submitted by the application deadline. IF YOU DO NOT APPLY CONSECUTIVELY, YOUR APPLICATION WILL BE DESTROYED. 11

13 Requirements for Accepted Applicants Only The following must be completed prior to starting the first course in the RN program and is addressed at the orientation session: 1) Health Clearance (including necessary immunizations or proof of immunity by titer) 2) Criminal Background Check (requires proof of valid social security number) 3) Current CPR Certification, Healthcare Provider (American Heart Association only) 4) Drug Screening Note: Criminal background check and drug screen is repeated between the third and fourth semesters as a requirement prior to the mental health rotation. Preassessment Testing Requirement Prospective RN program students must pass an assessment test, Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), Version V. The first test result of the TEAS testing by ATI will need a minimum score of 62, otherwise the student will be ineligible to apply to the program. If a student has already taken TEAS V from another college, they need to include verification of this score with the application. As part of the application paperwork, we will be asking for students to sign and confirm that their TEAS result is from a first test. Any false information provided on the application will be grounds for immediate disqualification. Limited supplies of review books may be checked out from the Allied Health office and other practice links may accessed on the Registering Nursing web page. ATI does provide (for a fee) remediation and study guides on their website. We highly encourage students to prepare for the TEAS test due to the need to achieve a 62 score. LVN to RN Pathway The pathway for California Licensed Vocational Nurses requires one academic year beyond completion of the prerequisite courses, non-nursing breadth requirements, and Competencies. LVN to RN students enter into the third semester of the RN curriculum identified above after completion of REGN-01 and all other prerequisites. Applicants submit an application found on the Allied Health website. Graduates will earn the Associate in Science Degree upon completion of designated courses and competency requirements. Communication, natural and social science, and nursing courses must be completed with a grade of "C" or better to be eligible for licensure requirements of the State Board of Nursing but must meet the admission requirements for the RN Program. Applications for the LVN to RN pathway are accepted continuously and held until enough students are seated to begin a class. Enrollment eligibility to the LVN to RN pathway requires the completion of previously identified prerequisite courses. Applicants must meet the same selection requirements as generic RN students entering the program in the first semester. In addition, REGN-01 is a prerequisite for the LVN to RN applicant who has already met the selection criteria. Randomized selection is used to select a cohort from the pool of qualified applicants according to available seats. Only those students formally accepted into the program may register for courses identified as Registered Nursing Curriculum. Students may, however, enroll in other courses designated as non-nursing program requirements while awaiting selection into the program. 12

14 LVN to RN 30 Unit Option In compliance with regulations by the California Board of Registered Nursing, Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) may seek eligibility for the RN licensure exam (NCLEX-RN) without meeting the requirements for an Associate of Science degree by successfully completing the 30- unit option. Students who select this option will be required to sign a statement of understanding regarding the limitations of this option. Students who select this option are eligible for licensure in California, but may not be able to attain endorsement for licensure in other states without the AS degree in registered nursing. Students interested in the 30-unit option are encouraged to make an appointment with the RN Director to discuss. The 30-unit option consists of completing, with a grade of C or better all required courses: Courses to Complete Before Admission to the Nursing Program Course Units BIOL-16 & BIOL-18 (General Human Anatomy and Principles of Physiology) 4 BIOL-20 Microbiology 4 REGN-01 Transition LVN to RN 2 Prerequisite Total 10 Courses to be Completed After Admission to Merced College Nursing Program Units REGN-02 1 REGN REGN-44 9 RN Program Total Unit Option 30 Competencies Required for Placement with grade C or above: Science Competency - Anatomy and Physiology, and Microbiology or equivalent courses Nutrition and Psychology Competency - Nutrition and Developmental Psychology or equivalent courses Reading/Writing Competency - English-01A or equivalent courses 13

15 Transfer Credits earned in the Merced College Registered Nursing Program may be transferable to California State Universities. Since prerequisite science and social science courses vary at each institution, students are advised to consult the catalog of their intended transfer school and establish a transfer plan with the Allied Health Counselor. Other courses which are not required but complement the RN curriculum include: NUTR-10 Nutrition VOCN-46A Applied Math for Pharmacology ALLH-67 Medical Terminology ALLH-60 Nurse Assistant Students are encouraged to take one or several of these courses if they have an identified need or are waiting for admission and have completed all other course work. 14

16 Minimum Requirements for Selection 1. High School Education or the Equivalent An applicant must meet the general preliminary education requirement of a high school education in the United States or the equivalent. Upon request of the Board, an applicant shall provide evidence of education equivalent to completion of a high school course of study in the United States by submitting one of the following: A high school diploma received from a U.S. high school. A General Education Development Certificate. A degree from any junior college, college or university accredited by a state agency authorized to accredit such institutions An evaluation by a high school, unified school district, junior college, college, university or board of education which the board determines, after review, establishes that an education equivalent to a high school education in the United States was obtained in this or another state or in any foreign country. 2. Successful completion of prerequisite courses or equivalency with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 in the five courses: ENGL-01A BIOL-16* BIOL-18* BIOL-20* MATH-C College Composition and Reading General Human Anatomy Principles of Physiology Microbiology Intermediate Algebra (or higher Math course) *Recommended completion within five years of acceptance to the program. 3. Acceptance Process Upon notification of qualification for an RN class, the applicant must reply regarding acceptance of admission. The acceptance letter will outline all details. Failure to notify the Allied Health Office with a Confirmation of Acceptance in the prescribed time constitutes grounds to assign the applicant s position to an alternate and the previous applicant s name will be removed from the incoming class roster. Accepted applicant s declining admission must submit the Enrollment Application during the next application period if interested in being considered for subsequent classes. Refer to page 11 Multiple Applications. 4. Evidence of good physical and emotional health is important and a Health Screening Survey is required of each Selectee. See Core Performance Standards in Appendix which identifies the cognitive, sensory, affective, and psychomotor performance requirements that students are required to perform to successfully complete the program. 5. Applications dates/times are available on the Allied Health Registered Nursing website. 6. A minimum passing score of 62 on Version V of the TEAS test. IF you have taken the TEAS test more than once, you must report your score on the FIRST attempt of Version V. 15

17 Step by Step Procedure for Application Step 1. Read entire Registered Nursing Application Handbook, CAREFULLY. Compare your prerequisites to the grid on page 28 of this manual. If your college and/or course is/are not listed make an appointment to meet with a counselor one month prior to the application deadline. Step 2. Send for two official copies of all your transcripts sealed separately to be sent to you directly. *To be official, transcripts must remain sealed in the original envelope. It is the applicants responsibility to obtain a copy of past college catalogs or course descriptions, to assist in the establishment of equivalencies. *Submit ONE official set of transcripts to Merced College, Attn: Admissions & Records/Evaluations Dept. MS #13, 3600 M St., Merced, CA ( at least one month prior to application. The other official set must be submitted with your application to the Allied Health Division. Transcripts should include: 1. College Transcripts from all schools other than Merced College 2. Foreign-born students with college transcripts outside the U.S. will need to have them evaluated for U.S. equivalency. Foreign student transcripts must be officially evaluated by ONE of the following agencies: International Education Research Foundation, Inc. (IERF) P.O. Box 3665 Culver City, CA (P) (F) Educational Records Evaluation Service 601 University Ave., Suite 127 Sacramento, CA (P) (F) Toll Free edu@eres.com Contact the Records & Admissions Office, for information regarding foreign transcript evaluation services. Step 3: Make an appointment to see an Allied Health Counselor (209) and bring with you: 1) One set of official transcripts to be used for counseling purposes Includes High School Transcript, copy of Diploma, GED, or AA/AS degree or higher 2) Other college catalogs, course descriptions (see Step 1) 3) If prior military service, DD214 4) RN Application Handbook with Enrollment Application form completed 16

18 Step 4: When meeting with Counselor, review: 1) Basic information - any questions you may have. 2) Transcripts (credits for Program) 3) Military Credits 4) Foreign transcripts - Formal Evaluation 5) Minimum Requirements for the RN Program 6) Competency requirements 7) To ensure that courses are equivalent to those offered by Merced College, have counselor complete prerequisite Course Equivalency form (See Application Packet at end of Handbook and Prerequisite Course Grid on page 28.) Step 5: Contact the Allied Health Office at (209) or (209) or (209) for clarification of questions at this point. Step 6: When Minimum Requirements have been met, prepare a COMPLETED application packet containing: 1) Check-Off Sheet 2) Enrollment Application 3) Merced College Student ID number 4) Copy of High School Transcript or Diploma or GED or AA/AS degree or higher education 5) Unofficial transcripts from Merced College printed from the Admission & Records Office no exceptions 6) Sealed Official College Transcripts from other colleges 7) Transcript Request Form 8) Prerequisite Course Equivalency Form (if applicable) 9) Acknowledgement of Student Responsibilities Regarding Selection Process 10) Scoring Rubric 11) Criteria Forms I V 12) Copy of TEAS V test results 13) Copy of Current California LVN License (LVN to RN applicants only) Step 7: Submit COMPLETED application packet to the Allied Health Division office IN PERSON ONLY. FYI: Mailed applications will not be accepted. If it is determined minimum requirements have not been met or an incomplete application packet is submitted, the applicant will not be considered for the selection process. Ineligible or incomplete applications are returned. Step 8: Applicant Notification: ALL applicants will receive a letter indicating their selection status tentatively three months after the application closing date. LVN to RN applicants are notified of eligibility approximately two months prior to the next semester. The LVN-RN application period remains open. To progress into the RN program students must successfully complete the REGN-01 LVN to RN transition class which is offered when a sufficient number of qualified applicants exist. Step 9: LVN to RN Students Only: Space in the RN program is determined based on the number of RN students progressing from the second semester to the third semester. Students must submit a letter of intent to enroll in the third semester RN class 30 days prior to the next semester. Students are accepted based on availability and by lottery if there is not enough space to accommodate all LVN s that have completed the bridge (REGN-01) course. 17

19 Acceptance Once accepted into the program, the student must be able to: Attend a pre-registration orientation meeting at which time course and registration information is provided. Attend clinical hours involving day, evening, and weekend shifts. Typical hours are either 6:30am-2:30pm or 6:30am-6:30pm. Some traveling to facilities in adjacent counties is required. Visit the hospital the day or evening prior to scheduled clinical experience for patient data collection. Submit a completed Health Screening Application verifying current immunizations or titers for DT, MMR, Polio, Hepatitis B, TB, and Varicella. Proof of Hepatitis B immunity or release form is required. Applicants must be in good health to cope with the rigorous requirements of the program. Submit additional evidence of negative tuberculosis testing PPD or Chest X-ray prior to progression to the second year of the program. Submit proof of current American Heart Association CPR certification for HEALTH CARE PROVIDER. Pass background checks and/or drug screens performed by the clinical facilities. Submission accomplished through the San Joaquin Valley Nursing Education Consortium ( for background check and drug screening. An additional background check and drug screen is required prior to the start of the fourth semester for the mental health rotation. This requires an active social security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). Failure to meet standards in any of these areas will result in non-acceptance to the RN program. 18

20 General Information for Nursing Applicants 1. Policy for Science Recency Requirements It is recommended that the science prerequisite courses be completed within five years of acceptance into the program. Whenever a course taken by the applicant is not exactly equal to the prescribed prerequisites, the applicant must first submit an official transcript to the Institutional Evaluator to determine equivalency. The equivalency process must be completed, approved and on file prior to submitting an application to the RN Program. It is the applicants responsibility to obtain a copy of past college catalogs or course descriptions, to assist in the establishment of equivalencies. 2. Guidelines for Prerequisite Science Course Equivalencies Microbiology Must be at least a four-semester unit college course with a lab, and content must include the fundamental aspects involving the identification, morphology, metabolism, pathogenicity and genetics of microorganisms. Anatomy and Physiology Must be at least four semester unit college courses EACH with a lab. Content must include the relationships of structure and function of the cellular, skeletal, muscular, circulatory, respiratory, digestive, excretory, secretory, reproductive, and central and autonomic nervous systems of the human body. 3. Advanced Placement Admissions Qualified applicants may apply for advanced placement in the RN program. Advanced placement is defined as entering the program at a level beyond the first semester. Applicants will be admitted on a space available basis only. Admission applications and supporting documents must be submitted to the Allied Health Division at least 90 days before the beginning of the semester. Submission of previous course outlines, syllabi, or other materials and/or passing written and performance placement examinations encompassing previously learned nursing content may be required. Following the evaluation of previous course work a determination of placement will be made. Individuals seeking advanced placement must meet the multi-criteria selection application requirements for consideration. 4. Readmission Policy & Procedure Readmission to the Registered Nursing Program after successful completion of the first semester is dependent upon space availability. After review of written and performance achievement evaluations and/or interview with the teaching team and the Program Director, a decision will be made using the following procedure: 19

21 Readmission Procedure: a. A student who withdraws from the program for any reason before successful completion of the first semester must reapply for admission to the program through the general admission process. No special consideration will be given. Applicants who are selected and then declined OR are not successful completing the first semester may apply again but WILL NOT be recognized as a consecutive applicant. Applicants may only be accepted to the program a maximum of two times. b. Students who withdraw from the program after satisfactory completion of one or more semesters must submit a letter requesting reentry into the program to the Allied Health Division 30 days prior to the semester for which they are applying. c. Readmission of students who have performed unsatisfactorily in the program and for whom withdrawal was recommended or failure of a course resulted, will be based upon the following: i. Students whose previous performance in a program was not satisfactory will be considered for readmission one time only. Applications must be made within one semester of withdrawal or dismissal. ii. Submission of a letter requesting reentry into the RN Program to the Allied Health Division 30 days prior to the semester for which they are applying. iii. Submission of evidence and/or demonstration that instructor's written recommendations for readmission have been satisfactorily fulfilled. iv. A written and/or performance examination encompassing previous content may be required for assessment purposes. v. For students dismissed for safety considerations, readmission will not be recommended. 5. Credit by Examination The Merced College Credit by Examination policy is outlined in the College Catalog. Exams may include teacher-made final examinations, standardized tests, and/or performance criteria. Course outlines, course objectives and textbook/reference reading lists will be available to the student at least four weeks before the exam is scheduled. Students successfully passing exams will be assigned the grade based on their total score. 6. History of Convictions Applicants will be required to pass a background check prior to clinical rotations. Applicants should be aware of the provisions of the California Nurse Practice Act which requires the Board of Registered Nursing to review the history of previous misdemeanor and felony convictions. In those cases where offenses bear a substantial relationship to the Nursing profession, the Board of Registered Nursing may withhold licensure. See Policy Statement on Denial of Licensure in the appendices. Failure to pass drug screening may result in release from the program. 7. Drug Screening Applicants will be required to pass a drug screen prior to clinical rotations. Failure to pass drug screening may result in release from the program. 20

22 8. Estimated Program Costs RN - 4 semesters Enrollment Fee* $46/Unit $1, Student Body Fee $40.00 Health Fee* ($10 x 4 semesters) $68.00 Parking ($20 x 4 semesters) $80.00 Physical Exam, Labs, Immunizations (Estimate) $ Uniforms (Estimate) $ CPR Certification $70.00 Books $2, Lab Fee 1 time only 1 st semester (Estimate) $80.00 Clinical Supplies (Estimate: watch with second hand, $80.00 stethoscope, scissors, Kelly clamp, pen light) Criminal background check/drug screening $90.00 Graduation Nursing Pin $50.00 Licensure Expenses (end of program) - estimate $ Total Estimated Cost $5, *Subject to change by State regulations. 9. Uniforms Supplies: Watch with second hand, Bandage scissors, Stethoscope, Penlight Women: Regular white nursing uniform with dress or pants, white hose or socks, and white nursing shoes (not canvas shoes or clogs); light blue tunic, vest, or apron Men: White pants, white socks, white shoes, light blue uniform shirt 10. Transportation It is advisable that all students have a car at their disposal and a valid California driver's license. Travel to clinical agencies may involve travel to adjacent counties unit option Upon completion of this option an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) will not be granted. The school is only the facilitator of the minimum requirements needed to apply for the NCLEX-RN exam. A degree in General Education or other majors may be obtained at any time. Employment may be limited. For example, Veterans Administration Hospitals and the military require that an RN have an ADN and/or BSN for employment/commissions respectively. It is uncertain whether BSN programs will accept a "30-unit Option" RN from California for admission. 21

23 Appendices 22

24 Core Performance Standards 23

25 BOARD OF REGISTERED NURSING P.O Box , Sacramento, CA P (916) Louise Bailey, M.Ed., RN, Interim Executive Officer POLICY STATEMENT ON DENIAL OF LICENSURE The California Board of Registered Nursing protects the public by screening applicants for licensure in order to identify potentially unsafe practitioners. Statutory authority for denial of licensure is set out in Business and Professions Code Sections , 492, 493, 496, 810, , , and The law provides for denial of licensure for crimes or acts, which are substantially related to nursing qualifications, functions, or duties. A crime or act meets this criterion if, to a substantial degree, it evidences present or potential unfitness to perform nursing functions in a manner consistent with the public health, safety, or welfare (California Code of Regulations, Section 1444). The Board may deny licensure on the basis of: Conviction of crime substantially related to the practice of nursing. Any act involving dishonesty, fraud, or deceit with intent to substantially benefit self or another or to substantially injure another. Any act which is grounds for revocation of a license. Making a false statement on the application for license. Breach of examination security. Convictions The Board considers most convictions involving sex crimes, drug crimes, and crimes of violence to be substantially related to nursing practice. Board regulations list examples of such crimes or acts to include, but not be limited to: Assaultive and abusive conduct. Failure to comply with mandatory reporting requirements. Theft, dishonesty, fraud and deceit. Convictions or acts resulting in registration under Section 290 of the Penal Code. Rehabilitation If the Board determines that an act or crime is substantially related to the practice of nursing, then it is the responsibility of the applicant to present sufficient evidence of rehabilitation. When considering denial of license, the Board takes into account the following criteria to evaluate the rehabilitation of the applicant. (California Code of Regulations, Section 1445). 1. Nature and severity of the acts or crimes. 2. Additional subsequent acts. 3. Recency of acts or crimes. 4. Compliance with terms of parole, probation, restitution, or other sanctions. 5. Evidence of rehabilitation submitted by applicant. 24

26 The Board has developed the following list of suggested evidence of rehabilitation for applicants whose licensure is in question. It should be noted that the board applies the same denial criteria for applications for interim permits and temporary license as it uses for permanent licensure. In summary, the Board of Registered Nursing screens applications fairly but cautiously, applying the above criteria. Schools of nursing are encouraged when counseling prospective nursing students to make them aware that there could be potential licensure problems due to serious acts or convictions as described above. In this manner, students have the opportunity to explore other career options prior to investing substantial time in a nursing program if it appears that a prior serious act or conviction may jeopardize licensure due to its substantial relationship to the practice of nursing. EVIDENCE OF REHABILITATION At the time of application for licensure, the burden of proof lies with the applicant to demonstrate sufficient competent evidence of rehabilitation to establish fitness to perform nursing functions in a manner consistent with public health, safety, and welfare. The following list itemizes types of evidence, which the applicant should consider providing to the Board. The individual or agency that is providing information about the applicant should mail all items directly to the Board. 1. Copies of court documents pertinent to conviction, including documents specifying conviction and sanctions, and proof of completion of sanction. 2. Letter from applicant describing underlying circumstances of arrest and conviction record as well as any rehabilitation efforts or changes in life since that time to prevent future problems. 3. Letters of reference from nursing program instructors concerning attendance, participation, and performance in nursing program. 4. Letters of reference from past and/or current employers. 5. Letters from recognized recovery programs attesting to current sobriety and length of time of sobriety if there has been a history of alcohol or drug abuse. 6. A current mental status examination by a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist. The evaluation should address the likelihood of similar acts or convictions in the future, and should speak to the suitability of the registered nursing profession for the applicant. 7. Letters of reference from other knowledgeable professionals, such as probation or parole officers. 8. Copy of Certificate of Rehabilitation or evidence of expungement proceedings. 9. Evidence of compliance with and completion of terms of probation, parole, restitution, or any other sanctions. 10. For endorsement applicants, copies of: a. Formal accusation and determination of other state, b. Copies of evidence presented to other state in order to obtain reinstatement of license or reduction or penalty, c. Terms of probation and evidence of current compliance if currently on probation in another state. 25

27 STATUTORY AUTHORITY FOR DENIAL OF LICENSURE (Summarized Version of Business & Professions Code) Grounds for Denial 480 (a) Board may deny a license on the basis of: (1) Conviction of a crime, after time for appeal, irrespective of a subsequent order under Section of the Penal Code. (2) Any act involving dishonesty, fraud or deceit with intent to substantially benefit self or another, or substantially injure another. (3) Any act which is grounds for suspension or revocation of registered nurse s license. (b) (c) May not deny license solely on basis of felony conviction if there is certificate of rehabilitation. (Penal Code ) May deny license if applicant knowingly made false statement of fact required in application. Criteria for Related Crimes Required 481 Board must have criteria to assist in considering denial, revocation, and suspension of license in order to determine whether a crime or act is substantially related to nursing qualifications, functions, or duties. (BRN criteria specified in Section 1444 of California Code of Regulations). Criteria for Rehabilitation Required 482 Board must have criteria to evaluate rehabilitation when considering (a) denial or (b) suspension or revocation of license. Board must consider all competent evidence of rehabilitation furnished by applicant or licensee. (Section 1445 of California Code of Regulations). Attestations of Good Moral Character Not Required 484 No applicant can be required to submit attestations of good moral character. Procedure for Board Upon Denial 485 Upon denial the Board must (a) serve a statement of issues or (b) notify the applicant of the denial stating the reasons and the right to a hearing. The right to a hearing is waived if a written request is not received within 60 days. Reapplication After Denial 486 Upon denial the Board must inform the applicant of the earliest date for reapplication, state that all competent evidence of rehabilitation will be considered upon reapplication, and send a copy of the criteria for rehabilitation. 487 If a hearing is requested it must be conducted within 90 days of request, except for OAH extensions or at applicant s request. 492 Successful completion of any diversion program under the Penal Code or successful completion of an alcohol and drug problem assessment program under the Vehicle Code does not prohibit the Board from denying or disciplining a license based upon the underlying misconduct. 26