1994 Revised 8/95, 1/97, 7/97, 8/98, 8/99, 8/00, 3/01, 8/01, 1/02, 9/02, 7/03, 7/04, 4/05, 7/05, 8/05, 1/06, 2/06, 8/07, 1/10

Transcription

1 CENTRAL ALABAMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE DIVISION OF NURSING AND ALLIED HEALTH NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK FOR THE ASSOCIATE DEGREE NURSING PROGRAM AND PRACTICAL NURSING PROGRAM 1994 Revised 8/95, 1/97, 7/97, 8/98, 8/99, 8/00, 3/01, 8/01, 1/02, 9/02, 7/03, 7/04, 4/05, 7/05, 8/05, 1/06, 2/06, 8/07, 1/10

2 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Foreword..7 Philosophy/Organizing Framework..8 Curriculum Overview.10 Curricula.12 General information..18 Americans with Disabilities Act..18 Attendance...18 Moodle.. 18 Bookstore Hours...18 Central Alabama Community College General Catalog Student Handbook...19 Change of Address and Marital Status 19 Cheating...19 Class/Skills Lab...19 Copier..19 Faculty.19 Firearms...19 Inclement Weather...19 Internet Access Library Hours...21

3 3 Office Hours for the Division of Nursing and Allied Health...21 Organizational Structure..21 Personal Calls.. 21 Registration..21 Schedules. 22 Smoking Student Concerns Student Evaluation of Faculty.. 23 Taping and Photography.. 23 Tardiness.. 23 Transportation..23 Student Services Food Services...24 Housing Organizations..24 Parking...24 Student Services and Student Activities. 24 Tuition and Fees Nursing Information..28 Academic Standing.28

4 4 Alabama Infected Health Care Worker Management Act.28 Blood Borne Pathogens and TB.28 Clinical Guidelines.28 Agencies Materials.28 Attendance/Makeup.28 Autopsy 29 Clinical Assignments Clinical Instructor...29 Clinical Requirements.29 Equipment 30 Home Health 30 Hospital Orientation.30 Identification Badge.30 Incidents...30 Intravenous Therapy 30 Legal Documents.31 Medication Administration..31 Observational Clinical Experiences.31 Palm Pilot.31 Professionalism 31

5 5 Reporting ON/Off the Clinical Unit.32 Sanctions for violation of clinical guidelines/ requirements...32 Verbal/Telephone Orders.32 Common Course Syllabus..33 Computer Lab.33 CPR 34 Exit Interview 34 Graduate Pin..34 HIPPA and Confidential Information 34 Liability Insurance.34 Licensure 34 NCLEX Review Software..34 Nursing Packets/Kits..34 Offensive Content...34 Skills Laboratories/Check-offs/Performance..34 Standardized Examinations.37 Student Input Test Review 37 Written Assignments..37

6 6 Policies.39 Infectious Disease Policy.. 39 Health Requirements..41 Background Check Policy..43 Code of Conduct 48 Dress Code.49 Drug Policy 54 Test Review 65 By-Laws RN.. 66 PN..78

7 7 Foreword The purpose of this handbook is to guide students in exercising their rights and responsibilities in the nursing programs and to guide them in their daily school activities. The handbook includes rules, regulations, policies, and procedures for the nursing programs. Students should keep this manual throughout the program. This handbook is developed as a supplement to the Central Alabama Community College General Catalog and Student Handbook which contains information relative to all major areas of the college. Students are held accountable for awareness of information in all the documents. The provisions of this document/publication are not to be regarded as an irrevocable contract between the student and the institution. The institution reserves the right to change any provision or requirement at any time within the student s term of attendance. The provisions of this document/publication are subject to change without notice and do not constitute an irrevocable contract between any student and the institution. Modifications contained within the posted course syllabi each semester will supersede information contained within the nursing student handbook.

8 8 The Philosophy of Nursing Programs The Alabama College System The philosophy of the nursing programs is consistent with the mission, goals and objectives of The Alabama College System. The programs provide curricula to develop the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for entry level employment in practical and professional nursing. The nursing faculty endorses the following beliefs: Maslow s theory is the foundation for the program of learning. According to Maslow, all individuals have similar needs arranged in a hierarchy with higher needs emerging as basic physiological needs are met. Individuals are unique biological, psychosocial and spiritual beings who strive to meet holistic needs. Each individual has the right to make informed decisions about one s health in a technologically changing society. Society, a complex system that influences culture, values, and beliefs, provides direction and meaning to an individual s experiences throughout the lifespan. Health, which is individually perceived, exists when needs are met. Ranging on a continuum from highest level wellness to death, health is a dynamic state. The goals of health care are to promote, maintain, and restore health. Nursing is an art, as well as, a science in which the holistic needs of the individual are met through utilization of the nursing process in a variety of settings. The nursing process incorporates scientific principles, interpersonal and psychomotor skills. The practice of nursing takes place in an ever changing health care system and requires caring, critical thinking, competency, legal/ethical accountability, dedication to an evolving body of knowledge, life long learning and client advocacy. The teaching-learning process is a shared responsibility between faculty and students where faculty serve as facilitators of learning. The successful teaching-learning process requires an environment that promotes learning, considers the needs of the individual, and provides opportunities for student participation and educational goal attainment. The learning process is based on principles of critical thinking and is enhanced by the presentation of information from simple to complex. Learning is achieved when there is evidence of a change in behavior within the cognitive, affective, and/or psychomotor domains. Individuals have the right to achieve self-actualization and society provides educational opportunities. Nursing education is a learner-centered process which combines general education and nursing courses to prepare the individual for the practice of nursing. Incorporating a program of learning, a variety of instructional methodologies, and available resources, nursing education fosters competency, accountability and continued professional development. Learning is a life long process which promotes professionalism and is beneficial for the learner and society.

9 9 Threads Integrated Throughout Curriculum 1. Critical Thinking 2. Communication 3. Nutrition 4. Pharmacology 5. Cultural Diversity 6. Lifespan 7. Pathophysiology 8. Technology 9. Teaching / Learning 10. Legal / Ethical 11. Roles of the Nurse ORGANIZING FRAMEWORK The schematic diagram presented on the following page is designed to show the complete picture of the program of learning. The description of the schematic drawing of The Alabama College System nursing programs is as follows: The umbrella represents a diagrammatic scheme of the nursing programs organizing framework. In order for an umbrella to function properly, it must be unfurled, have all its parts connected and its fabric intact. The nursing faculty visualize the organizing framework in a similar manner. The philosophy serves as the handle of the umbrella and is used to unfurl the curriculum. The organizing framework is composed of four major concepts: nursing, nursing process, human needs and the health-illness continuum. These four concepts are depicted by the horizontal bands on the umbrella. The eleven ribs of the umbrella represent the eleven curriculum threads. These threads are based on the philosophy and the four major concepts and connect the fabric of the curriculum to the pinnacle of the umbrella which represents the program outcomes.

10 10 CURRICULUM OVERVIEW ASSOCIATE DEGREE NURSING The associate degree nursing curriculum stems from the philosophy and organizing framework and affords educational preparation for the practice of nursing. The curriculum is developed within a framework of five consecutive semesters, leads to an associate degree in applied science and the privilege of applying to take the National Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). The associate degree nursing educational program consists of two levels. The first level is devoted primarily to health promotion, disease prevention, and nursing care of individuals with normal convalescent health care needs. The second level emphasizes nursing interventions to restore wellness in acute/chronic health deviates and emergency care for individuals with life-threatening conditions. Clinical experiences provide the students opportunities to utilize critical thinking while actively participating in the provision of nursing care.

11 11 CURRICULUM OVERVIEW PRACTICAL NURSING The practical nursing curriculum stems from the philosophy and organizing framework and affords educational preparation for the practice of nursing. The curriculum is developed within a framework of three consecutive semesters, leads to a certificate and the privilege of applying to take the National Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). The first two semesters are devoted primarily to health promotion, disease prevention, and nursing care of individuals with normal convalescent health care needs. The last semester emphasizes nursing interventions to restore wellness in acute/chronic health deviates. Clinical experiences provide the students opportunities to actively participating in the provision of nursing care.

12 12 STANDARD PRACTICAL NURSE CURRICULUM First Term *Prerequisite: BIO 103 or Satisfactory Performance on ACS approved placement exam Course Theory Lab Clinical Credit Contact Mathematical Requirement MTH 116 or Higher Level* Human Anatomy and Physiology I BIO 201** Fundamentals of Nursing NUR Health Assessment NUR Introduction to Pharmacology NUR Term Total Second Term Course Theory Lab Clinical Credit Contact English ENG Human Anatomy and Physiology II BIO Adult Nursing NUR Maternal and Child Nursing NUR Term Total Third Term Course Theory Lab Clinical Credit Contact Adult/Child Nursing NUR Psychosocial Nursing NUR Role Transition for the Practical Nurse NUR Term Total Program Totals Credit Hours: 49 Hours Contact Hours: 1101 Hours * NEITHER MTH 116 NOR MTH 100 ARE TRANSFERABLE MATH COURSES TO A FOUR-YEAR INSTITUTION. **BIO 103 OR SATISFACTORY PERFORMANCE ON THE ACS APPROVED PLACEMENT EXAM IS A PREREQUISITE FOR BIO 201.

13 13 CAREER MOBILITY LPN TO ASSOCIATE DEGREE NURSE CURRICULUM Prerequisite Courses Prior to NUR 201: BIO 103 or Satisfactory Performance on ACS approved placement exam ** MTH 116 or Higher Level Mathematical Applications (3 credit hours)* BIO 201 Human Anatomy and Physiology I (4 credit hours) BIO 202 Human Anatomy and Physiology II (4 credit hours) ENG 101 English Composition (3 credit hours) Total Prerequisites: 14 credit hours Prior to NUR 201 First Term Course Theory Lab Clinical Credit Contact Nursing Career Mobility Assessment NUR *** Term Totals Second Term Course Theory Lab Clinical Credit Contact Psychology PSY Microbiology BIO Nursing Through the Lifespan INUR Term Totals Third Term Course Theory Lab Clinical Credit Contact Speech SPH 106 or SPH 107 or SPH Human Growth and Dev PSY Nursing Through the Lifespan II NUR Term Totals Fourth Term Course Theory Lab Clinical Credit Contact Humanities Elective Nursing Through the Lifespan III NUR Role Transition for the Registered Nurse NUR 204 (Preceptor 3:1) Term Totals Program Totals: Total Credit Hours: 57 Total Contact Hours: 1035 General Education: 30 Nursing Hours: 27 * NEITHER MTH 116 NOR MTH 100 ARE TRANSFERABLE MATH COURSES TO A FOUR-YEAR INSTITUTION. **BIO 103 OR SATISFACTORY PERFORMANCE ON THE ACS APPROVED PLACEMENT EXAM IS A PREREQUISITE FOR BIO 201. ***NUR 200 IS REQUIRED FOR THOSE STUDENTS WHO DID NOT GRADUATE FROM THE ALABAMA COLLEGE SYSTEM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM WITHIN THE PAST TWO YEARS. ONLY THE STUDENT WHO DID NOT GRADUATE FROM THE STANDARAIZED CURRICULUM WILL BE GIVEN 15 NON-TRADITIONAL CREDIT HOURS AFTER COMPLETION OF NUR 200.

14 14 STANDARD ASSOCIATE DEGREE NURSE CURRICULUM First Term *Prerequisite: BIO 103 or Satisfactory Performance on ACS approved placement exam Course Theory Lab Clinical Credit Contact MTH 116 or higher Human Anatomy and Physiology I *BIO Fundamentals of Nursing NUR Health Assessment NUR Introduction to Pharmacology NUR Term Total Second Term Course Theory Lab Clinical Credit Contact English ENG Human Anatomy and Physiology II BIO Adult Nursing NUR Maternal and Child Nursing NUR Term Total Third Term Course Theory Lab Clinical Credit Contact Psychology PSY Microbiology BIO Nursing Through the Lifespan I NUR Term Total Fourth Term Course Theory Lab Clinical Credit Contact Speech SPH 106 or SPH 107 or SPH Human Growth and Dev PSY Nursing Through the Lifespan II NUR Term Total Fifth Term Course Theory Lab Clinical Credit Contact Humanities Elective Nursing Through the Lifespan III NUR Role Transition for the Registered Nurse NUR 204 (Preceptor 3:1) Term Totals

15 15 Program Totals: Total Credit Hours: 72 Hours Total Contact Hours: 1680 General Education: 30 Hours Nursing Hours: 42 Hours * NEITHER MTH 116 NOR MTH 100 ARE TRANSFERABLE MATH COURSES TO A FOUR-YEAR INSTITUTION. **BIO 103 OR SATISFACTORY PERFORMANCE ON THE ACS APPROVED PLACEMENT EXAM IS A PREREQUISITE FOR BIO 201.

16 16 DELAYED PROGRESSION PRACTICAL NURSING CURRICULUM Semester I (Summer) Semester Hrs. Contact Hours MTH 116 Mathematical Applications 3 3 BIO 201 Human Anatomy & Physiology I 4 5 NUR 103 Health Assessment 1 3 NUR 104 Introduction to Pharmacology 1 3 TOTAL 9 14 Semester II (Fall) NUR 102 Fundamentals of Nursing 6 12 BIO 202 Human Anatomy & Physiology II 4 5 TOTAL Semester III (Spring) ENG 101 English Composition I 3 3 NUR 105 Adult Nursing 8 14 TOTAL Semester IV (Summer) NUR 106 Maternal & Child Nursing 5 7 NUR 108 Psychosocial Nursing 3 5 TOTAL 8 12 Semester V (Fall) NUR 107 Adult/Child Nursing 8 14 NUR 109 Role Transition 3 5 TOTAL TOTAL CREDIT HOURS 49

17 17 DELAYED PROGRESSION ASSOCIATE DEGREE NURSING CURRICULUM Semester I (Summer) Semester Hours Contact Hours MTH 116 Mathematical Applications 3 3 BIO 201 Human Anatomy & Physiology I 4 5 NUR 103 Health Assessment 1 3 NUR 104 Introduction to Pharmacology 1 3 TOTAL 9 14 Semester II (Fall) NUR 102 Fundamentals of Nursing 6 12 BIO 202 Human Anatomy & Physiology II 4 5 TOTAL Semester III (Spring) ENG 101 English Composition I 3 3 NUR 105 Adult Nursing 8 14 TOTAL Semester IV (Summer) PSY 200 General Psychology 3 3 BIO 220 General Microbiology 4 5 NUR 106 Maternal & Child Nursing 5 7 TOTAL Semester V (Fall) SPH 107 Fundamentals of Public Speaking 3 3 OR SPH 116 Interpersonal Communication (3) PSY 210 Human Growth & Development 3 3 NUR 201 Nursing Through the Lifespan I 5 9 TOTAL Semester VI (Spring) HUMANITIES ELECTIVE 3 3 (ART, MUS, LIT, PHI, THE, REL or foreign language) NUR 202 Nursing Through the Lifespan II 7 15 TOTAL Semester VII (Summer) NUR 203 Nursing Through the Lifespan III 6 10 NUR 204 Transition Into Nursing Practice 3 7 TOTAL 9 17 TOTAL CREDIT HOURS 72

18 18 General Information Americans with Disabilities Act The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504) and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 state that qualified students with disabilities who meet the essential functions and academic requirements are entitled to reasonable accommodations. It is the student s responsibility to provide appropriate documentation to the College is reasonable accommodations are needed. Attendance Students are expected to attend all classes for which they are registered. Students who are unable to attend class, lab or clinical regularly, regardless of the reason or circumstance, should withdraw from that course before poor attendance interferes with the student s ability to achieve the course objectives. Withdrawal from the course can affect one s eligibility for federal financial aid. Withdrawal from the course can prohibit progression in the nursing program. Moodle Detailed course materials are provided for each course to guide and assist the student in meeting the objectives of the course. Course materials are accessible on the Moodle website ( Students are responsible and accountable for all course and program information located on Moodle for all nursing courses for which the student is enrolled. Nursing students must have a Central Alabama Community College (CACC) address. Computers in the computer lab in the Jim Preuitt Nursing and Allied Health Building may be used to access Moodle. However, students MUST not print materials from Moodle FROM ANY COMPUTER within the College. Students disregarding this policy may be subject to disciplinary action. The student may access Moodle at by typing in your CACC username and password. Instructions for access to and Moodle are provided on the CACC website under Online Student Services. Word, Excel, and PowerPoint documents are used extensively in the nursing program, thus, it would be helpful to have these programs on your computer. Bookstore Hours Childersburg Bookstore Hours: Monday-Thursday 7:30 AM 5:00 PM Friday 7:30 AM 11:00 AM Alex City Bookstore Hours: Monday-Thursday 7:30 AM 5:00 PM Friday 7:30 AM 11:00 AM

19 19 Central Alabama Community College General Catalog and Student Handbook Refer to the information contained within Central Alabama Community College General Catalog and Student Handbook. Change of Address and Marital Status Students are responsible for immediately going to the Admissions office to fill out the necessary forms to change their name, address, address, or telephone number. Students should also notify the Division of Nursing and Allied Health office of such changes. Cheating Cheating is unacceptable and will subject a student to disciplinary action as delineated in the Central Alabama Community College General Catalog and Student Handbook. Classrooms/Skills Lab Students should remove personal belongings before leaving the classroom/skills lab for the day. Students must keep desks and chairs from rubbing against the walls in the classroom or skills lab. Students should not write on or adhere anything to the desks in the classrooms/skills lab. Doors to the classroom and skills lab should be closed upon entering and exiting the room. The rooms should be left in order after use. The flower pots are not to be used as garbage cans. Trash should be disposed of properly. Students should not adjust the thermostats. When on a break from class, please remember that classrooms and/or offices are located nearby and noise is distracting to others. Children and/or visitors are not permitted in the classroom, skills lab, or clinical units. Children are not to be brought to class, lab, or clinicals. Copier The copier in the nursing office in Building J is not for student usage. A copier for student use is located in the library on the Childersburg Campus and in the library and bookstore for student use on the Alexander City Campus. The student is responsible for the cost associated with copying. Faculty The faculty encourages open communication with the students. If a student cannot reach a faculty member, the student should leave a voice message, , or a message with the secretary.

20 20 Division of Nursing and Allied Health Director of Nursing Dr. Dee Fuller Secretary Marty Brasher Assistant to Secretary Brenda Payton Bettie Norman-Walker/ Chairperson/Nursing Instructor Susan Kilgore/Nursing Instructor Cindy Grice/Nursing Instructor Lisa Ellison Cynthia Trader/Nursing Instructor (PT) Tanya Hunnicutt/Nursing Instructor Katie Harrison/Nursing Instructor Sharon Davis/Nursing Instructor Office Number Office Phone Address J100 CB (256) J100 CB (256) J100 CB (256) J104-1 CB (256) (CB) BS 106 AC (256) (AC) J104-2 CB BS 106 AC (256) CB (256) AC J104-4 CB (256) J104-5 CB (256) BS 106 AC J104-6 CB (256) BS 106 AC J105-1 AC (256) BS 106 AC J105-2 AC (256) BS 106 AC J113 CB (256) Firearms No firearms are allowed on campus. Inclement Weather Students should use their own judgment about coming to class and/or clinical. If unable to safely commute to class and/or clinical, even if the College is open, STAY AT HOME. Notification of the College closing will be sent via SchoolCast. Instructions for registering your contact information are located under Online Student Services on the CACC website. You may also listen to the television and radio stations as they will announce whether or not the College will be closed. Notification of the College closing will also be posted to Moodle if possible. Students should go to a designated place of safety when on campus. In the Jim Preuitt Allied Health and Nursing Building (Bldg. J) on the Childersburg campus, students are asked to go to J101 or J109 until warnings have expired. In the Biology Building on the Alexander City campus, students are asked to go to BS106 until warnings have expired.

21 21 Internet Access Students have access to the Internet on all campuses and will be asked to sign an agreement regarding Internet usage at CACC. Library Hours Childersburg Library Hours: Monday-Thursday 7:30 AM 7:00 PM Friday 7:30 AM 12:00 PM Alex City Library Hours: Monday-Thursday 7:45 AM 7:00 PM Friday 7:45 AM 3:00 PM Office Hours for the Division of Nursing and Allied Health Division of Nursing and Allied Health Office Hours: Monday-Thursday 7:30 AM 5:00 PM Friday 7:30 AM 11:30 AM To avoid prolonged periods of waiting, please make an appointment with the appropriate individual if possible. Organizational Structure Within the Division of Nursing and Allied Health, CACC offers an associate degree nursing education program (RN) and a practical nursing education program (PN). All the instructors within the Division report directly to Dr. Dee Fuller, Interim Director of Nursing. Dr. Dee Fuller reports directly to Dr. Bolton, Provost/Interim Dean of Instruction. Dr. Bolton reports directly to Dr. Steve Franks, President. Ms. Bettie Norman-Walker currently serves as the Chairperson for the Division of Nursing and Allied Health. Personal Calls The phones in the instructors offices and in the administrative office are not for routine utilization by students. Students may use the phones if necessary for important conversation such as calling to make a doctor s appointment, calling to check on a sick child, etc. The utilization of the phone will be monitored and must be limited. A phone is located in the student services area in the Administration Building. Personal calls should not be made or received while on the clinical unit unless an emergency arises. Students should not activate cellular phones during scheduled class, lab, or clinical hours. Registration Students are responsible for registering for required academic courses. Students should register online for required academic courses as soon as registration opens up to ensure progression in the nursing program. Students failing to register for required academic courses will not be allowed to progress in the nursing curriculum. Instructions for registering for nursing courses will be posted on Moodle at the end of each semester.

22 22 Students who have not met the clinical requirements for the entire semester for which they are scheduled will not be allowed to register as a HOLD will be placed on the individual s registration until the clinical requirements are met. If a student fails to meet the clinical requirements prior to the end of registration, the student will be unable to register for the semester in question and will be out of sequence and delayed in program progression. Schedules The faculty reserves the right to make necessary modifications in schedules, course materials, and assignments. Students will be informed of modifications as far in advance as possible. Individual requests for preferences of clinical assignments will not be accepted. The required general education courses will be considered when clinical schedules are developed, but an individual s work schedule cannot be considered when clinical schedules are developed. Students may be required to attend clinical, workshops and/or health fairs/screenings on the weekends/evenings. Students should be prepared to begin clinical or class on the first day the semester starts. If the student is unsure whether or not he/she has clinical scheduled for the first day of the semester, the student should first check Moodle as schedules will be posted as soon as they become available. If the schedule does not appear on Moodle, then the student should contact the appropriate instructor. Smoking Smoking is not permitted inside the nursing building; however, students are permitted to smoke outside the building in the rear parking lot. Containers are provided for cigarette butts. Student Concerns A student who has a concern involving an instructor should first consult the instructor. If the issue is not resolved at this level, the Chairperson, Division of Nursing and Allied Health should be consulted. If the issue is not resolved at this level, the student should address the concern to Dr. Dee Fuller, Interim Director of Nursing. If the issue is not resolved at this level, the student should address the concern to Dr. Melenie Bolton, Provost/Interim Dean of Instruction. If resolution is not achieved, the student is referred to the student grievance policy located in the Central Alabama Community College General Catalog and Student Handbook. Student opinions are valued in the college s decision making process. Student input may be both informal and formal. A student may make his/her opinion known through the college s open-door policy which permits easy access to administration and faculty as well as through the formal grievance procedures as outlined in the CACC Catalog. Collectively, students may express their opinion through a formal resolution adopted by

23 23 the student Senate of the Student Government Association (SGA) and conveyed to the appropriate administrative unit. Students also serve as members of various college standing committees. Student suggestions are welcomed. Student Evaluation of Faculty Each term students are provided with the opportunity to evaluate the nursing courses for which they are enrolled. Students are given the opportunity to evaluate the instructor s classroom and/or clinical performance each Fall Semester. Thoughtful, constructive participation in the evaluation process is appreciated and beneficial. Taping and Photography Written approval from individual(s) must be obtained prior to any taping or photographing of the individual(s) in question. Tardiness Classes begin promptly at the designated time. Students are encouraged to be in the classroom or clinical area at least five (5) minutes prior to the assigned time. Transportation Students are responsible for their own transportation.

24 24 STUDENT SERVICES Food Services Soft drink and snack machines are located on both campuses. A deli is located in the HEA Building on the Alex City campus. Most of the healthcare agencies utilized for clinicals have a cafeteria that can be utilized by students while on clinicals. No food or drinks are allowed in computer labs. Housing Housing is not provided by Central Alabama Community College. Central Alabama Community College assumes no responsibility concerning housing; however, available information concerning housing facilities in the communities will be shared with the student upon request. Organizations Students are encouraged to participate in the Student Government Organization and the respective Nursing Student Organization. Refer to the Central Alabama Community College General Catalog for details regarding the Student Government Organization. Refer to the Nursing Student Organization Bylaws located within this Handbook. Parking Students must obtain a parking decal. Forms are available at the front desk and at the library. Students must provide a copy of their schedule in order to obtain a parking pass. On the Childersburg campus nursing students should park in the lot behind Building J. Student Services and Student Activities Refer to the sections labeled Student Services and Student Activities located in Central Alabama Community College General Catalog

25 25 Tuition and Fees Refer to Central Alabama Community College General Catalog and Student Handbook. Tuition is the same as for other students on campus. Additional approximated expenses for nursing are located in the Catalog. In addition to tuition and fees, each student will be financially responsible for purchasing a student uniform, a lab coat, a watch with a second hand, regulation white nursing shoes and white hosiery, and a name badge. Students are financially responsible for their own transportation, meals, health care expenses, health insurance, accident insurance, drug screen, background check, liability insurance and/or any liability incurred during travel and educational experiences. Students are responsible for purchasing any supplemental items that corresponds to the nursing course for which they are enrolled including achievement/assessment examinations. Students are responsible for purchasing Scantron sheets and #2 pencils which will be required for recording of answers for examinations. Scantron sheets can be purchased in the bookstore.

26 26 Approximate Costs for Division of Nursing Programs Central Alabama Community College Practical Nursing Tuition (49 credit hours) $5, Books Testing Remediation package (divided over 3 semesters) Uniforms Nursing Kit Health Requirements Drug Screen Background Check Liability Insurance annually Accident Insurance per semester 4.10 Board of Nursing Application Temporary Permit NCLEX-PN Graduate Pin Cap & Gown Rental Certificate Fee Approximate Total Practical Nursing $7,408.60

27 27 Associate Degree Nursing Tuition (72 credit hours) $ 7, Books Testing Remediation package (divided over 5 semesters) Uniforms Nursing Kit Health Requirements Drug Screen Background Check Liability Insurance annually Accident Insurance per semester 4.10 Board of Nursing Application Temporary Permit NCLEX-RN Graduate Pin Cap & Gown Rental Associate Degree Fee Approximate Total for the Program $

28 28 Nursing Information Academic Standing Students will be made aware of their academic status at the completion of each nursing unit of study. Students in academic jeopardy should consult the appropriate nursing instructor. Alabama Infected Health Care Worker Management Act The 1993 Alabama Infected Health Care Worker Management Act mandates that any health care worker infected with HIV or Hepatitis B Virus who performs an invasive procedure or any physician caring for an infected HIV or HBV health care worker notify the State Health Officer of the infection. An invasive procedure is defined by the Act as those medical or surgical procedures characterized by the digital palpation of a needle tip in a body cavity or by the simultaneous presence of the health care worker's fingers and a needle or other sharp instrument or object in a poorly visualized or highly confined anatomic site. Bloodborne Pathogens and TB Students are responsible for implementing policies and procedures to reduce the risk of infection by blood borne pathogens and TB. Failure to implement policies and procedures to reduce the risk of infection by blood borne pathogens and TB may result in disciplinary action and possible dismissal from the program. Clinical Guidelines Agencies Materials The stationery and printed forms utilized by the clinical agencies that Central Alabama Community College is affiliated with must not be used or appropriated for any reason other than the specific purpose for which they are printed. In compliance with HIPPA, any printed material utilized by the student must not be removed from the unit. It should be placed in the shred bin on the unit. Equipment, books, and supplies are not to be taken from the clinical agencies. Some agencies utilize computerized documentation. Students may be assigned a log on and password for the sole purpose of clinical experiences. Accessing information not related to assigned patients is a violation of HIPPA and may result in disciplinary action. Students should not access the internet from a clinical agency unless instructed to do so by their instructor. Attendance/Makeup Students are expected to attend all clinical rotations required for each course. Only excused absences will be considered for makeup. However, clinical makeup cannot be guaranteed. Failure to complete clinical rotations will prohibit progression in the nursing program.

29 29 Students may be required to attend workshops and/or health fairs/screenings as part of the clinical requirements for some clinical nursing courses. Students are expected to attend clinical for the entire time that the clinical experience is scheduled. If the student is absent for one hour or more of a clinical day, the student is subject to makeup the whole clinical day. Nursing students are not to leave the clinical agency during the assigned period of time except with the instructor s permission. Students are not permitted to leave the clinical agency for lunch. Autopsy Students are permitted to witness autopsies only with the permission of the instructor and the pathologist. Students must be accompanied by an instructor. Clinical Assignments On the OB/GYN units, many of the clinical agencies request that a male nursing student be accompanied by a female (instructor or student) when providing perineal and/or breast care. A nursing student should notify the instructor immediately if the student perceives that the patient does not desire to be cared for by a nursing student. Likewise, the nursing student should notify the instructor immediately of any patient situation that makes the student feel uncomfortable. However, refusal to care for an assigned patient will subject the nursing student to disciplinary action which could result in dismissal from the nursing program. Clinical Instructor If a student arrives on a unit for a scheduled clinical experience and cannot locate the instructor, the student should immediately notify the instructor of record for the course or the Division of Nursing and Allied Health office. Clinical Requirements Students who do not meet the clinical requirements will not be allowed to register for nursing courses nor attend clinical. In order to register for nursing courses and attend clinicals a student must have verification of: An annual physical examination Annual TB Skin Test (with a two-step on initial entry into the program and a one-step thereafter) Hepatitis B vaccination or sufficient titer MMR Tetanus within 10 years Current CPR certification at the health care professional level Health insurance Liability insurance (obtained through CACC)

30 30 Negative Drug and Alcohol Screen Clear Background Check Accident Insurance If a student who does not have a complete health file attends clinical, the student will be sent off the clinical unit until his/her health file is complete and may not be allowed to makeup the clinical. Equipment Nursing students must not disassemble equipment. Nursing students should return equipment when finished with the equipment so that the equipment is available for others to utilize. Home Health If students are assigned to Home Health, the student should follow the home health nurse in his/her own car. The guidelines listed below should be followed by students assigned to home health visits: Each student must be accompanied on a home health visit by an agency nurse during the scheduled hours. The student uniform with name badge should be worn. When making home health visits, students should implement safety precautions. The agency, faculty member, and Division of Nursing and Allied Health office must be notified immediately of any emergency or problems. Cars should be parked in a safe and visible area near the home being visited. Keep the car doors locked at all times. Hospital Orientation All students must attend hospital orientation before the student will be allowed to attend clinicals. Identification Badge Students will be required to purchase a name badge. Students are required to wear their name badge while in the clinical agency or participating in any clinical activity. Incidents Any incident made by a student should be reported immediately to the instructor who will then instigate the appropriate incident report. Intravenous Therapy Following the presentation and check-off on intravenous therapy content, nursing students may start intravenous infusions when being supervised by an instructor. Nursing students should never stick a patient more than twice in an effort to initiate intravenous therapy.

31 31 With the exception of chemotherapeutic agents and blood components, associate degree nursing students may administer IV medications with an instructor s supervision. PN students can administer IVPB only. Legal Documents Students are not permitted to witness legal documents on the clinical unit. Medication Administration Students cannot administer medications in the clinical setting until NUR 105. Never administer a medication without knowledge of the medication. Observational Clinical Experiences Students are to observe only when assigned to observational clinical experiences. Students must not perform hands-on care without an instructor being present. If a student is absent from an observational experience, the student must formally request to makeup the clinical and provide verification of an extenuating circumstance. A faculty decision will be made regarding the absence from the observational clinical experience. Makeup may be permitted for extenuating circumstances. Palm Pilot Students are encouraged to use a palm pilot on the clinical unit. However, students should only use it when not in direct contact with a patient. Professionalism Nursing students are expected to use assigned clinical time in a professional and productive manner. Nursing students should consult with the instructor and seek additional learning opportunities that will assist the student in obtaining the maximum learning experiences. Nursing students should not sit in the break room at times other than breaks. The instructor may not permit the students to sit in the break room at all. Nursing students should remember that others are watching and assessing your abilities. Job opportunities are often made based on assessments made during clinicals. Students should remember that asking for many breaks and asking for a break upon arrival to the clinical unit creates a less than desirable response among the hospital personnel. Nursing students must adhere to the established dress code. A student s association with a patient/client should be professional not social. The nursing student shall not enter any clinical agency as a nursing student other than the agency (ies) to which the student is currently assigned.

32 32 A nursing student must not represent one s self as a nursing student or engage in patient/client care as a nursing student except as a part of an assigned, planned learning activity in a practice setting integral to the curriculum. Nursing students must adhere to the policies and procedures of the agency to which they are assigned. Nursing students completing clinicals in healthcare agencies are not employees of the healthcare agency, will not receive compensation for participation in clinicals, and have not been promised a job at the healthcare agency. Reporting On/Off the Clinical Unit Students are not allowed on the clinical units except during the designated times. Students are expected to report on and off the clinical unit promptly. When going to or leaving a unit, the student reports to the instructor and/or unit manager. Sanctions for violation of clinical guidelines/requirements If, in the judgment of the clinical instructor, any of the clinical guidelines/requirements are violated, the nursing student may be asked to leave the clinical area. The clinical instructor will notify the Director or Chairperson, Division of Nursing and Allied Health immediately of such an occurrence and the student will be subject to disciplinary action and possible dismissal from the nursing program. Verbal/Telephone Orders Students are not permitted to accept verbal or telephone orders from physicians. Common Course Syllabus Refer to the information contained in the Common Course Syllabus located on the college website for additional information relating to nursing courses. Computer Lab A computer lab for nursing students is located in Building J on the Childersburg Campus and the Biology building on the Alexander City campus. Nursing software is loaded on computers in this lab. Students must comply with the following guidelines: Printed materials are subject to inspection by College personnel. Do not load, unload, download, or reconfigure the software on the computer. Properly turn the computer off when you are finished and clean up the space around the computer. No food and drink in the computer lab. Children are not allowed in the computer lab. Do not add, delete, or rearrange icons that appear on the screen. Passwords are not to be placed on the computers. Do not print materials from Moodle. Comply with the CACC Student Internet Use Agreement.

33 33 Do not play or install music or video game CD s on the computer. Seek assistance if you experience a problem with the computer. CPR Students must have current certification in Basic Cardiac Life Support through the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross at the professional level before functioning in the clinical area. It is the student s responsibility to maintain current CPR certification. If clinical hours are missed due to an expired CPR certification, the absences will be counted as unexcused and makeup will be at the discretion of the faculty. Exit Interview During the last term, students will be required to participate in an Exit Interview with a designated instructor. Graduate Pin During the semester of graduation students will be advised regarding the ordering of the graduate pin. Purchase of a graduate pin is optional. HIPPA and Confidential Information The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPPA) is a federal law to protect a patient s medical information. Students will be informed regarding the ramifications associated with HIPPA and will be responsible for upholding the standards set forth by the law. Information regarding a patient/client is confidential. Information regarding any patient must never be the subject of conversation in the cafeteria, in elevators, unit hallways or off- duty with the student s friends and relatives. A breech of confidentiality will subject the student to disciplinary action and possible dismissal from the nursing program. Refer to the Code of Conduct. Liability Insurance Liability insurance coverage runs from July 1 to the last day of June. Liability insurance costs $15.00 per renewal period. Both PN and ADN nursing students will pay for the cost of liability insurance at least twice during their tenure in the respective nursing education program. Licensure During the last term, students will complete the Application for Licensure online at Further information will be provided during the last term. Students are responsible for completing the licensure application process and for the cost associated with application for licensure.

34 34 NCLEX Review Software To use this software, the student must follow these steps: 1. Log on to the computer with the following: a. USERNAME: Nurse b. PASSWORD: nurse Double-click the appropriate icon on the desktop. a. For RN: NCLEX-RN 3500 b. For PN: NCLEX-PN When the student is finished using the software, the student MUST log off and then log on with the following: a. USERNAME: Student b. PASSWORD: (no longer is needed, just press enter) Note: If you do not see the icon on the desk top, you will need to click on programs, go over to LWW, and click on NCLEX-RN 3500 or NCLEX PN Nursing Packets/Kits There may be some instructional materials for some courses in addition to books that are sold through the bookstore. Most instructional materials will be available for printing from the Nursing Student Section on the college website and/or Moodle. Students cannot use any computer in the college to print materials from either of these sites. Students who disregard this policy may be subject to formal disciplinary action. Nursing skills kit will be purchased from the bookstore. Offensive Content Students should be aware that some classroom/lab content and or clinical experiences in the nursing courses may be viewed as being offensive such as certain mental illnesses, medical diagnoses, treatments, and patient behaviors. Skills Laboratories/Check-offs/Performance The nursing skills lab is available for utilization by students to practice skills. Students are responsible for leaving the skills lab in a clean and organized state. Students should refer to the current course materials for details regarding skills check-off. Students must not perform skills in the clinical area prior to being satisfactorily checked off on the skill in question.

35 35 Nursing students must always seek the instructor s assistance when performing a nursing intervention for the first time. If ever in doubt regarding the provision of care, seek assistance. If you do not know, ALWAYS ASK! Remember a life is involved. Instructional media such as videos and computer software are housed in the skills lab. Students are encouraged to utilize the instructional media. Guidelines for Using the Skills Lab I. Attire If you are coming to a scheduled lab dress as though you were going to a clinical site. a. It is not necessary to wear your uniform but you are welcome to wear scrubs if you d like. Otherwise, business casual is appropriate. b. Hair should be worn away from the face and secured so that it doesn t fall over the shoulders when leaning over the patient (manikin). c. Jewelry should be restricted to the same standard acceptable in the hospital clinicals. No bracelets, no dangling earrings. II. III. The lab is designed to benefit both students and faculty and efforts are made to keep equipment in good repair and available in ample supply. If supplies are not readily available please ask for assistance. The lab simulates the patient care environment and should be left in the same condition that one would leave a patient room. a. The patient should be comfortably positioned, covered, side rails up, bed locked and in low position, and the call light should be at the bedside. IV. Basic guidelines apply here just as they do at home: If you move it, put it back. If you make a mess, clean it up. If you need help, ask. We are all here to make this an enjoyable and informative learning experience. Please feel free to contact me for any concerns or needs. Thank you! Sharon Davis sdavis@cacc.edu

36 36 CENTRAL ALABAMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE Student Safety Regulations for the Skills Laboratory Place your initials to the left of each safety regulation after you have read and understood the regulation. If you have any questions, ask your instructor. 1. Read the procedure before coming to class/skills lab. If you have any questions, ask your instructor before beginning the lab. An unprepared student can expose himself and others to unnecessary hazards. 2. Report all accidents to the instructor. 3. Bare feet, sandals, and open-toe shoes are not allowed. 4. Be familiar with the fire extinguishers about the building. No smoking in the lab. 5. Never place any practice medications in your mouth. 6. Never inject any practice medications into yourself or others. 7. Place all sharps in the Sharps Disposal Container. 8. CPR and invasive procedures should be practiced on a manikin only. I,, have read and understand each of the above safety regulations. I also understand that failure to follow the above regulations will result in counseling and/or removal from the course with repeated failures to comply with safety regulations. Student Signature Date

37 37 Standardized Examinations Achievement Examinations Achievement Examinations are administered throughout the nursing programs, but may not be administered in all nursing courses. Students should refer to the course materials for achievement examinations scheduled for the term in question. NCLEX-RN/PN readiness/diagnostic examinations(s) are administered in the respective programs. Achievement and NCLEX-RN/PN readiness/diagnostic examination(s) are required. Students will be informed of their performance on the achievement examinations throughout the course of study. Students are responsible for the incurred cost of taking these examinations. Testing fees are attached to each course and are paid with tuition. Achievement examination(s) score(s) may be counted as part of the student s grade for the respective course in which the examination is administered. The student should refer to the course materials. Exit Exam The student is required to take an Exit Exam in the respective program in the last term of the respective program. The Exit Exam will be calculated as a percentage into the course grade. PN students should refer to the course syllabus for NUR 109 and ADN students should refer to the course syllabus for NUR 204 for additional information. Student Input Students are invited to attend nursing faculty meetings. Students desiring to attend nursing faculty meetings can contact the Division of Nursing and Allied Health office or an instructor for dates and times of the meetings. Students can submit suggestions in the suggestion box located in the skills lab or to the Division of Nursing and Allied Health office or to any nursing instructor. Test Review Refer to the Policy for Test Review. Written Assignments Assignments should be submitted as delineated in the course materials. All written assignments will be evaluated according to the criteria provided. Questions regarding the evaluation of the assignment should be forwarded to the appropriate instructor. Make arrangements with your instructor for submitting written assignments by the due date. Do not take assignments to instructors homes. If the student rotates to another site, the student may send his/her assignments by another student who has that instructor on the due date. The student assumes responsibility if the student he/she selected does