RN to BSN Nursing Student Handbook

Transcription

1 RN to BSN Nursing Student Handbook

2 About this handbook: This Student Handbook is designed to provide RN students seeking a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree with helpful information and resources, and as such is designed for currently enrolled RN to BSN students. In addition to the contents of this handbook, students should also be familiar with the content and policies in the Gardner-Webb University Undergraduate Catalog. Any program revisions made within the current academic year will be communicated to students through University . 2

3 Table of Contents 1. Gardner-Webb University School of Nursing History Mission Statement Philosophy Theoretical Definitions of Philosophical Concepts Overall Goals Programs Program Accreditation Professional Standards School of Nursing Contact Information Academic Program RN to BSN in Nursing Program RN to BSN Program Outcomes RN to BSN Student Learning Outcomes RN to BSN Curriculum DCP Core Requirements Major Course Requirements RN to BSN Curriculum Course Information RN to BSN Program Course Offerings RN to BSN Academic Procedures Academic Advisement Applying to the MSN Program Conflict Resolution Curriculum Associated Expectations of Students Dismissal from the Program Electronic Device Usage during Clinical and Practicum Rotations Electronic Mail Graduation Requirements and Application Procedure Information Technology Competencies Malpractice Insurance Name and Address Changes Non-Discrimination Nursing Practice in the Practicum Setting: Safe, Unsafe, and the Consequences Safe Practice Unsafe Practice Consequences of Unsafe Practice Patient Confidentiality/Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act Permission for Photography Withdrawal from Courses RN to BSN Academic Policies Appeals Policy Attendance Policy Classroom and Practicum Behavior Policy Classroom Behavior Practicum Experience Behavior Criminal Background Check and Drug Screening Policy Exposure Policy

4 5.6 Grading and Progression Policy Honesty Policy Protection against Blood-borne Communicable Diseases Social Media/Electronic Communication Technical Standards Policy Student Resources: School of Nursing Student Organizations Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing Phi Upsilon Student Resources: Gardner-Webb University Textbook Procurement Support Services Appendices Appendix A: Confidentiality Commitment Appendix B: Disclosure of Information Appendix C: Consent Form.. 32 You will need to print out, sign, date, and submit Appendices A, B, and C (pages 28-32) to the School of Nursing Coordinator of Student Records (or fax to ATTN: Susan Jenkins) within the first week of classes. 4

5 Gardner-Webb University Hunt School of Nursing The Hunt School of Nursing (SON) is an integral part of Gardner-Webb University (GWU). The Hunt SON mission, philosophy and outcomes are congruent with and support the value statements of GWU. The Hunt SON and GWU are committed to providing superior education grounded in the Liberal Arts to prepare graduates to make significant contributions for God and Humanity. GWU respects the value and individuality of every student and provides an environment that promotes a strong work ethic, Christian heritage and values, teamwork and personal accountability. 1.1 History Nursing Education at GWU began in 1965 with the establishment of the Associate Degree Nursing program under the direction of Mrs. Grace C. Lee, who became the first program director. The GWU Nursing Department became the School of Nursing in 1995 with Dr. Shirley Toney serving as the first Dean. The School of Nursing currently houses four nursing degree programs. In 1982 the RN to BSN Completion program was established. The program was named the Davis Nursing Program in 1995 after becoming affiliated with the Davis Hospital Foundation. A Master s in Nursing in Nursing Education and Nursing Administration was established in 2000 with the addition of the Family Nurse Practitioner program in In 2010 the Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs were added. In 2014, Dr. Jack and Mrs. Ruby Hunt, noted public servants and community supporters, established the Hunt School of Nursing. 1.2 Mission Statement The mission of the Hunt School of Nursing is to enhance the health status of the global community by preparing individuals to practice holistic and professional nursing through the provision of student centered programs of study for a diverse student population that promotes academic excellence within a Christian, private, liberal arts setting utilizing teamwork and community engagement. 1.3 Philosophy The faculty of the Hunt School of Nursing functions within the framework of the purpose and value statements of Gardner-Webb University which focus on providing high quality education within a Christian, private, liberal arts setting. The Hunt School of Nursing philosophy represents a framework of overarching beliefs of the nursing faculty that lays the foundation for individual program philosophy, goals, and organizing concepts. The philosophy of the Hunt School of Nursing consists of basic beliefs regarding expected outcomes of nursing education at all levels. The nurse is an independent provider of nursing care, a manager of nursing care and a member of the interdisciplinary team. Health is the person s previous, current, and future state of mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual functioning. Environment encompasses all previous, current, and future phenomena that impact the wellbeing of the person. The faculty is committed to providing nursing education that is consistent with best practice and that builds upon previous knowledge. The following competencies for nursing practice are 5

6 derived from current professional standards and utilized as the basis of nursing education at Gardner-Webb University. 1.4 Theoretical Definitions of Philosophical Concepts Patient Centered Care Patient Centered Care is based on the belief in the individuality, uniqueness, and worth of all people, each one a creation of God. Nurses provide relationship centered care to promote and enhance human flourishing. The addition of principles, concepts, and theories of nursing, generated by nursing research, culminates in a program of studies that enables the student to utilize a conceptual basis for clinical prevention and population health. Nursing Practice Nursing Practice involves the delivery of patient-centered care to individuals, families, communities, and populations across the lifespan and in diverse healthcare settings. Nursing practice requires nursing judgment and nursing intervention in the provision of direct and indirect patient-centered care. Evidence Based Practice Evidence Based Practice reflects a scientific and liberal arts foundation for best nursing practice through the application of research. A spirit of inquiry utilizing the knowledge and science of research (through process, evaluation, and synthesis) is required to translate scholarship into practice to improve patient care. Personal and Professional Development Personal and Professional Development promotes social and intellectual growth and fosters an attitude that values the lifelong process of the development of professional values and social responsibility. Emphasis is placed on supporting the development in assuming roles consistent with the profession of nursing. In accordance with our beliefs supporting career mobility, Gardner-Webb University offers programs of nursing education that promote opportunities for individuals to enter and advance within the profession of nursing. Collaboration Collaboration requires teamwork evidenced by shared responsibility built on a reciprocal relationship. The nurse is an active participant in interdisciplinary collaboration between and among caregivers, consumers of care, and healthcare agencies and systems. Quality Improvement Quality Improvement is the continual evaluation and re-assessment of quantitative and qualitative data to improve the quality of care and patient safety as an integral part of the health care system. Nurses participate in the interdisciplinary process of quality improvement designed to make changes leading to better patient outcomes, system performance and professional development. Nursing Informatics Nursing Informatics integrates nursing science, computer science and information science to manage and communicate data, information and knowledge in nursing practice. 6

7 Nursing practice requires the use and integration of healthcare technology to provide specific insights into the health experience(s) of individuals, cultures and societies. Organization and System Leadership Organization and System Leadership is the articulation of a vision through a transformative process designed to shift priorities and create followers. Utilizing the principles of leadership, nurses design health care policy, advocate for patients, manage personnel, and plan for change in the healthcare context and environment. 1.5 Overall Goals Establish liberal arts educational environment based on Christian values fostering academic excellence, integrity, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Provide student-centered programs of study based on current national competencies of nursing practice to meet the global health care needs of individuals, groups and communities in which holistic nursing practice, Christian caring, critical thinking, and professionalism are modeled. Engage in partnerships with community health care facilities in the provision of service learning opportunities for students that includes patient-centered care, evidence based practice, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Graduate a diverse population of students who are prepared to practice patient centered nursing care that is culturally competent, holistic and professional within the context of a global environment in a manner that influences nursing and health care policy and practice. 1.6 Programs Today, the Hunt SON consists of four programs of study: the Associate Degree in Nursing program (ADN), the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (BSN), the Davis Nursing Program (RN to BSN), the Master of Science in Nursing program (MSN), and the Doctorate of Nursing Practice program (DNP). The ADN and BSN programs prepare students to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) as both programs are fully approved by the North Carolina Board of Nursing. The ADN program can be completed in two years and the BSN program can be completed in four years on the main campus in Boiling Springs. The RN to BSN program can be completed in one to two years through distance learning delivery. The MSN program prepares graduate nurses in the specialty areas of Nursing Administration, Nursing Education, and Family Nurse Practitioner. Post-Master s certificate programs in Nursing Administration, Nursing Education, and Family Nurse Practitioner are also available for the MSN prepared registered nurse. The DNP program prepares doctoral nurses in the specialty areas of Advanced Practice Leadership and Educational Leadership and can be completed in two years through an executive format. 1.7 Program Accreditation All programs within the Hunt SON are nationally accredited. Accreditation has been maintained by the nursing programs at GWU beginning with the provisional accreditation of the ADN 7

8 program in 1968 and full accreditation in Since that time, the ADN program has maintained continuous accreditation. The RN to BSN program received initial accreditation in 1985 and has since maintained continuous accreditation. The MSN program received initial accreditation in 2002 with continued accreditation since that time. Initial accreditation was obtained for the traditional BSN program in Initial accreditation was obtained for the DNP program in Accreditation is maintained through the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) located at 3343 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 850, Atlanta, GA, 30326, phone: ; additional information may be found on the ACEN website: Professional Standards The curricula content for the programs within the Hunt SON are guided by the following professional standards: North Carolina Administrative Code Title 21. South Carolina Code of Laws, Title 40-Professions and Occupations, Chapter 33 Nurses, Article 1 Nurse Practice Act. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Essentials of Baccalaureate Education for Professional Nursing Practice. The AACN Essentials of Master s Education in Nursing. The AACN Essentials of Master s Education for Advanced Practice Nursing. The AACN Essentials for Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice. The Institute of Medicine (IOM) Core Competencies for Health Professionals from Health Professions Education: A Bridge to Quality. The Quality and Safety Education for Nursing (QSEN) Quality and Safety in Nursing: A Competency Approach to Improving Outcomes. The National League for Nursing (NLN) Outcomes and Competencies for Graduates of Practical/Vocational, Diploma, Associate Degree, Baccalaureate, Master s, Practice Doctorate, and Research Doctorate Programs in Nursing. The National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties Nurse Practitioner Core Competencies. 8

9 Hunt School of Nursing Contact Information Main Campus Hunt School of Nursing 110 South Main Street Campus Box 7309 Boiling Springs, NC Phone: Fax: Statesville Campus Hunt School of Nursing 1714 Wilkesboro Road PO Box 908 Statesville, NC Phone: Fax: Dean, Chairs, and Directors Sharon Starr, PhD, RN Dean, Hunt School of Nursing Associate Professor Elliott Hall Anna Hamrick, DNP, FNP-C, ACHPN Director, FNP Program Assistant Professor Elliott Hall Cindy Miller, PhD, RN Chair, MSN Program Professor Elliott Hall Candice Rome, DNP, RN Chair, BSN Program Assistant Professor Elliott Hall Nicole Waters, DNP, RN Chair, RN to BSN Program Assistant Professor Elliott Hall Linda Wines, MS, RN, CNE Chair, ADN Program Assistant Professor Elliott Hall Staff Susan Jenkins Coordinator of Students Records Elliott Hall Lugene Moore Administrative Assistant Elliott Hall

10 Faculty Tracy Arnold, DNP, RN Assistant Professor Elliott Hall Janet Arthurs, EdD, MSN, RNC Assistant Professor Lindsay Janie Carlton, EdD, RN Professor Statesville Campus Sharon Creed-Hall, MSN, RN Instructor Elliott Hall Abby Garlock, MSN, RN Instructor/Lab Coordinator Turner Building 101C Melissa McNeilly, MSN, RN Instructor Elliott Hall Quanza Mooring, MSN, RN Instructor Elliott Hall Fran Sparti, DNP, APRN Associate Professor Dover Chapel Sarah Tate, MSN, RN Instructor/Clinical Coordinator Turner Building 101B Kathy Williams, MSN, RN Instructor Lindsey Hall Penny Hennessee, MSN, RN Instructor Lindsay

11 3.1 RN to BSN Nursing Program Academic Program The Davis Nursing Program at Gardner-Webb University, a degree completion program offered through the DCP Program, is designed to allow registered nurses to achieve their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. The RN to BSN Program prepares registered nurses to practice professional nursing in a variety of settings and provides the foundation for graduate study in nursing. The Davis Nursing Program for RN students is offered online through the Blackboard Learning Program. The length of time required to complete the RN to BSN Program varies for each individual due to differences in educational backgrounds. The RN to BSN Nursing Program serves to: Provide baccalaureate nursing education in a Christian environment to registered nurses with varying educational, experiential and cultural backgrounds. Prepare a generalist who can deliver professional and holistic nursing care in a variety of settings. Prepare a nurse who is accountable to the profession and society. Provide the foundation for graduate education in nursing. 3.2 RN to BSN Program Outcomes The RN to BSN program seeks to meet the following program outcomes: Meet educational needs of eligible students holding valid license to practice as a registered nurse who desire to pursue baccalaureate nursing education at a small, private, liberal arts, Christian university. Graduate no less than 70% of students entering the program within 1.5 times the length of the program. Eighty percent of graduates will: o o o Express satisfaction with the RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program. Be involved in role-related Professional Practice one year following graduation. Demonstrate satisfactory nursing practice to their employers. Maintain continuing accreditation by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

12 3.3 RN to BSN Program Student Learning Outcomes The graduate of the RN to BSN program will: Utilize research methodology in the provision of evidence-based practice to individuals, families, and populations in a variety of settings. Establish partnerships with interdisciplinary teams to meet health needs of clients in a diverse society. Incorporate professional values and ethical, moral, and legal aspects of health care into their nursing practice. Employ knowledge of the political system in providing direct and indirect care to clients. Apply theoretical underpinnings to their nursing practice and research. Assume personal responsibility and accountability for professional nursing practice. Demonstrate knowledge of leadership theory and practice. Be prepared to continue their education to achieve graduate education. 3.4 RN to BSN Curriculum DCP Core Requirements DCP CORE REQUIREMENTS I. Dimensions of Humanities A. Composition 1. English 101=English English 102=English 112/113/114 All accepted for admission to DCP will present evidence of completion of a year of English course work (freshman English) from a community college or senior institution. Students not meeting the requirement for English 102 may be admitted and can take English 300 (Composition and Literary Interpretation) at GWU. This course will be in addition to all other graduation requirements. B. Oral Communication Most students have the competence through previous course work in speech, business communications, or other similar courses. For those who have not met the competency, the advisor will ensure that the student enrolls in appropriate courses at GWU which emphasize oral and visual presentation. Drama, speech, debate, business communications, teaching, preaching, or other approved courses will meet this competency. NUR 307 allows students to meet this requirement. C. Literature - One Course 1. English British Literature Survey I 2. English British Literature Survey II 3. English American Literature Survey I 12

13 4. English American Literature Survey II 5. English World Literature I 6. English World Literature II II. Dimensions of Faith - Two courses A. Religion Old Testament Survey B. Religion 305 New Testament Survey III. Dimensions of Heritage - Two Courses A. Social Science Global Understanding B. History 301 -Western Civilization I C. History 302 -Western Civilization II D. History th Century U.S. History E. Political Science - U.S. Government IV. Dimensions of Self - Two Courses A. Health & Physical Education Health Maintenance, Promotion, and Wellness B. Aesthetics - One Course 1. Art Art Survey 2. Music Survey of Music 3. French Aspects of French Culture and Language 4. Spanish Aspects of Spanish Culture and Language 5. German Aspects of German Culture and Language V. Dimensions of Scientific Inquiry Two Courses A. Science Physical Science B. Science Human Biology C. Science Environment Two regular college courses in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geology, etc. may be used to satisfy the requirement. V. The Quantitative Dimension Mathematics -A course in probability & statistics, finite math, or a higher level course such as college algebra, trigonometry, or calculus Major Course Requirement: Academic Curriculum As with all DCP majors, approximately half of the Nursing track consists of our Core Curriculum of Liberal Arts (see Core Curriculum), providing 30 hours towards the 128 hours needed to graduate. (Nursing 307 satisfies the DCP Core requirements for oral/visual communication and for computer literacy). A student must complete 30 hours in the Nursing Studies Major. ELECTIVES: Electives may be selected to meet the 128-semester hour requirement for graduation as needed (See Graduation Requirements). 13

14 3.4.3 RN to BSN Curriculum Course Information: The classes particular to the Nursing Studies major, consist of the following: NUR 300 Concepts of Professional Nursing (may substitute NUR 500 Theoretical Basis for Advanced Practice) (3 SH) NUR 301 Research in Nursing (3SH) NUR 312 Advanced Health Assessment (2SH) NUR 303 Trends in Health Care (may substitute NUR 501 Nursing and Health Care Systems and Issues) (3 SH) NUR 307 Communication Skills in Nursing (3 SH) NUR 402 Nursing Care of the Older Adult (3SH) NUR 403 Leadership/Management in Nursing (4SH) NUR 409 Senior Seminar (3SH) NUR 412 Community and Public Health Nursing (4SH) NUR 415 Community and Public Health Nursing Practicum (2SH) 3.5 RN to BSN Program Course Offerings RN to BSN Course Rotation Fall Spring Summer NUR 300 or NUR 500 (MSN) (3) NUR 303 or NURS 501 (MSN) (3) NUR 301 (3) *NUR 307 (3) *NUR 307 (3) *NUR 307 (3) NUR 312 (2) NUR 312 (2) NUR 402 (3) NUR 403 (4) **NUR 412 (4) **NUR 412 (4) NUR 415 (2) NUR 415 (2) ***NUR 409 (3) ***NUR 409 (3) ***NUR 409 (3) *NUR 307 is taken first semester of nursing courses **Pre/Co Requisite for NUR 415 ***NUR 409 is taken last semester of nursing course. 14

15 RN to BSN Academic Procedures 4.1 Academic Advisement Students are registered for their first semester of courses upon admission. Students are expected to review the required course of study for their concentration at the time of enrollment. The following semester students are responsible for communicating with their assigned Academic Advisor who will advise them on the courses being offered the next semester, the courses they need, and their personal identification number (PIN). Students are responsible for registering for their classes utilizing their PIN number through WebbConnect. Advising takes place once each semester prior to registration beginning. Students are advised in the Fall for Spring registration and in the Spring for Summer and Fall. Faculty post advising hours and it is in the student s best interest to communicate with their advisor especially during this pre-registration period. The advisor can then review the student record and anticipate possible areas of concern or discussion based on the student s work and grade point average. The final responsibility for meeting degree requirements rests with the student. Students are expected to get a degree evaluation online through WebbConnect to assess their ongoing progress toward degree completion. 4.2 Applying to the MSN Program Students in the RN to BSN program who wish to pursue their MSN at GWU should consult with their current academic advisor for direction. The faculty encourages students to continue their education in nursing. Additional education in nursing broadens one's knowledge and career options. The MSN program is administered through the Graduate School. 4.3 Conflict Resolution If a student encounters conflicts or concerns in a nursing class or clinical area, etc., the student should first approach the faculty member involved in the class or clinical experience. If an acceptable resolution is not achieved, the student should follow the hierarchical listing below: (1) Course Instructor (2) Chair of the Program (3) Dean, Hunt School of Nursing (4) Associate Provost for Schools 4.4 Curriculum Associated Expectations of Students All written work for courses must be submitted following the guidelines in the latest edition of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association Manual. Nursing students, because of their participation in the lives of others, are expected to follow the American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics. Students are expected to consult with a faculty member when encountering ethical questions or concerns in practice. 15

16 4.5 Dismissal from the Program The nursing faculty reserves the right to dismiss from the program, any student who fails to meet academic and/or non-academic criteria which include behavioral, attitudinal, ethical, and/or clinical standards. Further, students who present physical or emotional problems which conflict with safety essential to nursing practice and do not respond to appropriate treatment or counseling within a reasonable period of time will be dismissed from the program. Students will be dismissed if they demonstrate behavior that is a threat to public health and safety. Unsatisfactory behavior may consist of a pattern of behavior or performance or a single incident, depending on the incident. Dismissal may occur at any point in any course in the program which includes immediate dismissal if indicated. 4.6 Electronic Device Usage in Classroom and Practicum Experiences The following guidelines apply: Professional behavior and proper netiquette should be observed at all times when using electronic devices, such as cellphones, ipads, ipods, and laptops. Electronic devices may be used only when authorized by faculty for educational activities, not for personal use. No personal phone conversations or texting is allowed at any time during classroom and practicum experiences. Electronic devices should be placed in airplane mode. A written warning will be given for the first violation of using an electronic device for socializing during practicum hours. A practicum failure will be given for the second violation. Students are expected to have their electronic device turned off if the agency policy requires, and go to an area designated for electronic device usage when accessing electronic information. Be respectful to the patient at all times and ensure your entire attention is focused on the patient. If you must access information on an electronic device while providing patient care, be sure to apologize for the interruption in care and explain how this will benefit their care. The use of an electronic device allows you to retrieve information quickly and unobtrusively. You must protect the confidentiality of patient information at all times in accordance with HIPAA. Faculty, preceptors, or agency staff may ask to see what programs you are accessing at any time. Keep careful physical control of the electronic device at all times. Bring your electronic device to class and practicum, as required. Ensure it is charged. Just as other medical equipment may act as a reservoir for microorganisms and contribute to the transfer of pathogens so may electronic devices. Be sure to disinfect and decontaminate them as needed. Students who violate patient privacy with an electronic device will be subject to HIPAA infractions by the practicum agency. 16

17 4.7 Electronic Mail Most communication between faculty members and students occurs via . Faculty will contact students at their GWU address. Students should check their GWU several times each week. 4.8 Graduation Requirements and Application Procedure All students must apply online for graduation the semester before they complete degree requirements. Students are responsible for applying online for graduation through WebbConnect. A graduation fee will be applied to the student s account upon applying for graduation. Students who fail to meet graduation requirements in the semester they apply for graduation are required to reapply for graduation the next semester that they plan to graduate. 4.9 Information Technology Competencies Competency Placement Student Outcome Use basic Prerequisite Students will utilize in Send-receive communication with peers, Send attachments faculty, and advisors. Word processing Prerequisite Students will utilize a word processing program to complete written assignments. Internet Prerequisite Students will utilize an internet browser to access and retrieve information. Advanced Internet Blackboard Distance Learning System Electronic Presentations Slides Audio Recording Video Recording 4.10 Malpractice Insurance Online courses Blackboard orientation and Student user guide Prerequisite 17 Student will utilize Blackboard Learning Systems to participate in discussion groups, online testing, and various course assignments. Student will utilize electronic media (PowerPoint, etc.) to support presentations if applicable and appropriate to course content. All students are charged for group malpractice insurance with each clinical or practicum course. The group policy carried by the Hunt SON provides student malpractice coverage that applies while in clinical or practicum experiences related to nursing courses Name and Address Changes Students need to keep both the University and the Hunt SON informed about changes in their name, address and telephone number. Students should immediately notify the registrar s office of changes.

18 4.12 Non-Discrimination GWU admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin. GWU nursing students will care for assigned patients regardless of their race, religion, ethnic background, or pathophysiology. When disease transmission is possible, the professor will insure the student is aware of the protective precautions necessary and will assist the student as needed Nursing Practice in the Practicum Setting: Safe, Unsafe, and the Consequences The faculty members of the Hunt SON have an academic, legal and ethical responsibility to prepare graduates who are competent as well as safe to protect the public and health care community from unsafe nursing practice. It is within that context that students can be disciplined or dismissed from the Hunt SON for practice or behavior which threatens or has the potential to threaten the safety of a client, family member, another student, faculty member or health care provider Safe Practice To ensure safe nursing practice is maintained and upheld, the student should adhere to the following at all times: Practice according to the Nursing Practice Act in the state where the practicum is completed. Practice within the guidelines and outcomes of the Hunt SON. Practice within the rules and regulations of affiliating health care agencies. Practice within the American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics. Maintain accountability for actions and communication Unsafe Practice Students who demonstrate behavior which conflicts with safe nursing practice will be dismissed from the program. Incidents involving unsafe behavior will be considered by the instructor, Program Director, Program Chair, Dean, and, if necessary, by other faculty members. Actions will depend upon circumstances, level of student, and actual or potential consequences of the incident. Unsafe practice includes, but is not limited to the following: Failure to use nursing judgment effectively. Failure to take nursing action when such action is essential to the health and safety of the client. Performing nursing activities, which are detrimental to the health and safety of the client. Attending any GWU/Hunt SON learning experience while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Failure to recognize the influence of own attitude, values, beliefs, and behavior on the 18

19 care of clients. Deliberately giving false or inaccurate information. Failure to assume responsibility for completing nursing care. Performing interventions without adequate preparation or needed supervision. Performing a breach of confidentiality and/or privacy Consequences of Unsafe Practice The consequences of unsafe practice are determined by the nature of the behavior exhibited and the situation in which it occurs and include the following: Dismissal from the practicum experience. Failing grade for the course. Dismissal from the program Patient Confidentiality/Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act Consistent with ethical practice, it is imperative that nursing students maintain the highest level of confidentiality regarding patients to whom they are assigned in accordance with Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996, Public Law Failure to adhere to this policy could result in dismissal from the program and legal action. The patient's right to confidentiality and privacy must be maintained at all times. The student must sign the GWU Confidentiality Form (Appendix A) and submit it to the Hunt SON Coordinator of Student Records Permission for Photography Gardner-Webb University uses students photographs in various publications. Students agreeing to have their photographs used for this purpose must sign a form indicating their agreement. The student s signature gives GWU the unrestricted right to use and publish photographs for editorial, trade, advertising, and any other purpose and in any manner and medium; and to alter and composite the same without restriction and without the student s inspection or approval. Additionally, the student s signature releases GWU and legal representatives from any liability and any claims relating to said photographs. If you are interested in having your picture used in GWU publications please sign the form in (Appendix B) and return to the Hunt SON Coordinator of Student Records Withdrawal from Courses Students should only withdraw from courses after consultation with their advisor. Students who must withdraw from courses should proceed through the official withdrawal process as stated in the GWU Undergraduate Catalog. It is the student s responsibility to complete all requirements of the withdrawal process. Otherwise, grades of F will be assigned and the student will maintain financial responsibility. 19

20 RN to BSN Academic Policies 5.1 Appeals Policy Students wishing to appeal a grade must adhere to the policy as outlined in the Undergraduate Catalog. Students should inform the Dean of the Hunt SON of their intent to appeal a grade or policy as soon as possible following their decision to do so. The Hunt SON faculty and staff are available to assist the student in the appeal process as necessary. 5.2 Attendance Policy According to GWU policy, students may not miss more than 25% of course meetings. Students should check each course syllabus for specific class and lab hours required per week. If the student finds that he/she must be absent or tardy, the student should contact the faculty member as soon as the need becomes known. This should be done before the learning activity occurs. The faculty member will advise the student of the assignment and the time span for make-up class or lab work. The faculty member responsible for the nursing course will apprise the student of appropriate phone numbers/contact information. A pattern of absences or tardiness is unacceptable and is subject to review by the faculty, Chair of the program and/or Dean, and may result in disciplinary action, course failure, or dismissal. In case of emergency when the appropriate faculty member cannot be reached, a message should be left with the clinical agency, Chair, or Administrative Assistant for the Hunt SON. The faculty member should then be contacted as soon as possible. If the student is physically unable to initiate or complete a clinical assignment, he/she should consult with his/her immediate faculty member as soon as possible. Make-up work and any associated penalties are under the discretion of the professor and will be explained in the course syllabus. The student is expected to initiate the process and contact the professor at the first opportunity. Make-up will depend upon the reason for missing the work, whether the student followed protocol regarding contacting the professor, nature of the missed experience and availability of necessary resources. The professor will assign the form of make-up, for example missed multiple-choice exams may be replaced by oral or essay exams. 5.3 Classroom and Practicum Behavior Policy Classroom Behavior Nursing students are expected to arrive to all classes promptly and fully prepared to achieve maximum benefit from class time. Students must come prepared to ask and answer questions about the material included in each class to achieve understanding of concepts and principles presented and discussed. Failure to prepare for learning activities is a serious breach of student responsibility and may have detrimental consequences. Students disrupting the learning environment or hindering fellow students from achieving maximum learning will be removed from the learning environment and a learning contract will be instituted Practicum Experience Behavior Nursing students are expected to arrive promptly to all practicum experiences, fully prepared to achieve maximum learning. Nursing students are expected to prepare for practicum experiences 20