MARION S WHELAN SCHOOL OF PRACTICAL NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012-2013
Nursing Student Handbook The purpose of the Student Handbook is to provide students with specific information concerning institutional policies and regulations. As a student, you have a responsibility to read and become familiar with the contents of this handbook and all other such publications distributed. All faculty, staff and employees of the health system strive to create and maintain an environment that is safe, friendly, and conducive to learning. It is the responsibility of the student to read this handbook, official announcements, official bulletin boards, the catalog, and be informed about programs of study, credits, requirements, policies, student life, and information relating to participation in these academic programs. The information is subject to change or to modification; therefore students should stay in touch with advisors, faculty, staff, and administrators in order to receive the most up-to-date information possible This student handbook includes the philosophy, purpose, objectives, academic program information, and other pertinent information for students enrolled in the Practical Nurse Diploma program. 1
TABLE OF CONTENTS Welcome...4 School Hours...4 Accrediting Agencies or Organizations...4 Mission...4 Philosophy & Organizational Framework...5 Program Goals...7 General Information Achievement Testing...8 Advisement...8 Change of Personal Information...8 Class Organization Guidelines...8 Classroom Expectations...8 Core Performance Standards for Admission & Progression...8 Credit by Examination...9 Enrollment...10 Grading/ Credits...10 Gifts...10 Honors and Awards...10 Housing...10 Inclement Weather...11 Liability Insurance...11 Physical Examination...11 Program Dismissal/ Termination...11 Remediation...11 Skills Laboratory...12 Student Nurses Association...12 Student Responsibilities for Registration...12 Student Services...12 Transcript Request...12 Transfer-In Policy for Nursing Courses...13 Transportation...13 Academic Information Academic Standing/ Probation..13 Criteria for Repeating Courses..13 Dismissal...14 One Plus One Program with FLCC...14 Program Extension 16 Promotion and Continuance..17 Reinstatement 17 Withdrawal...17 2
Clinical Information CPR/ Preclinical...17 Professional Confidentiality...18 Professionalism and Ethics...18 Standards of Professional Practice...18 Student Concerns...18 Student Refusal of Clinical Assignment...18 Uniform Code...19 Policies Academic Integrity Policy...20 ATI Testing Policy...21 Attendance Policy...23 Disability & Accommodation Policy...24 Drug Use Policy...26 Grievance Policy...27 Social Media Policy...28 Student Financial Services Financial Aid...29 Sources of Financial Aid...30 Consequences of Student Loan Default...32 New York State Financial Aid...33 Terms & Conditions of Financial Aid Awards...34 Rights & Responsibilities of Accepting Financial Aid Awards...35 Maintaining Financial Aid Eligibility...36 Tuition & Fees...39 Refunds...42 Treatment of Title IV Funds When a Student Withdraws...42 Estimated Cost of Attendance...43 Disclosures...44 Student Privacy Under FERPA...46 Student Association Bylaws...48 3
Welcome We are pleased that you are pursuing your nursing education at Finger Lakes Health, the parent organization of the Marion S Whelan School of Practical Nursing. Nursing education involves a process of interaction between the teacher and the learner. Our role is to facilitate your learning by assisting you in identifying your learning needs and guiding you in the learning process to develop the competencies needed in nursing. We invite you to join us in a cooperative effort to ensure a quality education in nursing. School Hours Administrative offices are open Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. During the summer, the hours are variable and students should call to find out open hours. Marion S. Whelan School of Practical Nursing Originally known as the Geneva School of Practical Nursing, its name changed in May 1975, in honor of the original director of the school who retired at that time. Classes begin in September and end in August. Upon satisfactory completion of all course requirements, graduates will receive a diploma and school pin. They are then eligible for the New York State practical nurse licensing examination. This 11 month practical nurse program also provides transfer opportunities to R.N. associate degree programs in the local community. Graduates seeking employment upon completion achieve a high employment rate. Numerous career areas are open to licensed practical nurses including hospitals, nursing homes, healthrelated facilities, home health agencies, and physician offices. Accrediting Agencies or Organizations The New York State Education Department Professional Education Program Review Albany, New York 12230 Phone: (518) 486-2967 National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission 3343 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 500 Atlanta, Georgia 30326 Phone: (404)975-5000 MSWSPN is approved by the NYS Division of Veterans Affairs for the training of veterans and other eligible persons (GI Bill). Mission of Finger Lakes Health Finger Lakes Health is a community owned, not-for-profit organization dedicated to maintaining and improving the health of all people in the central Finger Lakes region. We are committed to high quality, compassionate services that are convenient, accessible and at reasonable cost, through the efforts of our employees, medical staff and volunteers. 4
We are a center for health education that lives its leadership commitments through participation in and sponsorship of professional, allied health and community health education programs. Mission of the Nursing Program The mission of the nursing program is to produce nurse graduates at the Practical Nurse level who are competent and caring professional nurses functioning within their identified scope of practice. Graduates of the Marion S Whelan School of Practical Nursing will value the profession of nursing by exhibiting professional behaviors in a healing and caring way, by promoting lifelong learning and living to create healthy relationships with the people they care for and work with. Philosophy of the Nursing Program The philosophy of the LPN program is based on the foundational concepts of Finger Lakes Health defined by the mission, vision, and value statements of the health system. As a partner of the health system, the philosophy of the nursing program is consistent with the nursing philosophy that governs nursing practice and care delivery at Finger Lakes Health. Organizational Framework for the Nursing Program The conceptual framework is based on the principles of the Theory of Nursing Knowledge and Nursing Practice. The theory places extreme emphasis on the individual s accountability and responsibility to participate in the attainment of nursing knowledge and to develop his/her own nursing practice based on that knowledge which is supported by research and evidence. The theory delineates factors which constitute professional nursing practice, explains relationships between elements of practice and knowledge, predicts practice patterns, identifies methods to evaluate practice and examines identified variables. Learning is enhanced by a collaborative, student/teacher partnership which is characterized by active and responsible student involvement strategies and by faculty who function as facilitators of the learning process. Nursing education provides a foundation of theoretical knowledge and technical skills which are common to the practice of nursing. Education at each level builds on previous knowledge to facilitate education and career mobility. The curriculum is an organized, competency-based sequence of learning for the purpose of preparing individuals for entry-level positions in nursing practice employing a variety of teaching/learning strategies to ensure student success. The faculty facilitation enables the students to become competent beginning practitioners who use effective critical thinking and demonstrate humanistic values and caring. The Theory of Nursing Knowledge and Nursing Practice is a systematic view of the phenomena of nursing practice invented for the purpose of describing, explaining, predicting and prescribing nursing care (Meintz, S. L., 1994; Van Sell, 2000). An adaptation of this nursing theory provides the conceptual framework for the Licensed Practical Nursing curricula. In addition, the faculty subscribe to the concept of differentiated nursing practice which describes the system of sorting roles, functions, and work of nurses according to education, clinical experience, and defined competence and decision-making skills required by different client needs and settings in which nursing is practiced. (NLNAC, 1999). Nursing Foundation (NF): is the knowledge from sciences and humanities. 5
Methodology (M): is a method for problem solving, critical thinking, and utilization of the nursing process to support nursing judgement. Nursing essence (NE): include the core concepts and standards identified by the faculty, regulatory agencies and professional organizations of nursing such as the National League of Nursing and the National Association of Practical Nurse Education as essential to the foundation to practice the art and science of nursing. Disciplined Inquiry (DI): is the investigation, participation and implementation of nursing research and evidence based nursing practice at the appropriate level for the Licensed Practical Nurse that supports the spirit of inquiry Nursing Knowledge (NK): is the understanding of nursing as a science and an art. Nursing Knowledge is the result of integrating Nursing Foundation, Methodology, Nursing Essence and Disciplined Inquiry. Nursing Knowledge (NK) may be expressed in the equation, NF + M + NE+DI = NK. The depth and breadth of Nursing Practice (NP) is determined by the individual nurse s (I) integration and synthesis through cognitive, affective, psychomotor, and spiritual domains of self, times Nursing Knowledge (NK). Nursing practice may be expressed in the equation (NK) (I) = (P). The individual nurse s practice is directly related to the degree of integration and synthesis of nursing knowledge. The Nursing Faculty believes that the curriculum based on this philosophy, conceptual framework and theory will begin to meet the needs of the rural communities of the Finger Lakes Region. The philosophy and conceptual framework also allows, encourages and promotes the upward educational and career mobility that is vital to the nursing profession. Illustration of the organizational framework described above: Illustration of the organizational framework described above 6
Organizing Framework Component Nursing Foundation Methodology Nursing Essence Disciplined Inquiry Marion S Whelan School of Practical Nursing Course English I English II Introduction to Psychology Developmental Psychology Anatomy & Physiology I Anatomy & Physiology II Nursing I (Introduction to data collection and observational skills, ATI Critical Thinking Pretest) Nursing II (Introduction to concepts of the Nursing Process, demonstration of data collections and observational skills, participation in simulation) Nursing III (Completion of critical thinking case studies and ATI Critical Thinking Posttest) Nursing I Fundamental Nursing Concepts Nursing II Medical Surgical Disorders part I Nursing III Medical Surgical Disorders part II & Professionalism Nursing II Article presentation Nursing III Poster presentation Program Goals 1. To prepare Licensed Practical Nurses who use nursing judgement to make sound clinical decisions based on theoretical knowledge, critical thinking, nursing skills and available technology within the scope of practice of the Licensed Practical Nurse. 2. To prepare Licensed Practical Nurses who deliver compassionate, competent, relationship based care in a healing environment to support human flourishing 3. To empower Licensed Practical Nurses to gain knowledge and skills through continuing education and educational advancement while promoting and supporting the role of the Licensed Practical Nurse. 4. To serve the rural communities health needs of the Finger Lakes Region by responding to a changing healthcare environment through the spirit of inquiry. GENERAL INFORMATION 7
Achievement Testing After certain courses, students are scheduled to take ATI or Kaplan standardized tests. Students pay for this in program fees. Each test relates to content taught during the current and previous courses. Students taking the tests should receive scores from the Course Leaders before progressing. Students need to understand the importance of the tests because the tests help to identify deficit areas, prepare students for the type of questions on the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) and may predict successful completion of the Licensure exam. Student will receive a grade of I until required tests are completed in individual courses. Remediation is available and recommended through the ATI and Kaplan. Advisement Each student will be randomly assigned an academic advisor before the beginning of the program. Each faculty member will encourage each student to make an appointment for student advisement. Each faculty meets with their advisee once at the beginning of the semester to develop/review the long range plan for academic progress and advancement. An evaluation meeting to review academic, clinical and attendance progress is encouraged. The student will also meet with their clinical faculty for clinical progress as deemed necessary throughout the semester. In addition, the student may take advantage of FLCC s academic support program and tutoring assistance. Change of Personal Information If a student changes his/her name, address, or phone number while enrolled in the Nursing program, the student must notify the Student Services Coordinator immediately or update via Empower. Class Organization Guidelines During the second semester, the students in each program will elect fellow students to represent the class on the Student Association. The secretary of the Student Associations will inform the representatives of the scheduled meetings. It is highly encouraged to be involved in activities related to the Student Association and other school activities. Classroom Expectations Students need to be on time for class each day. Beepers, PDAs, MP3s, IPODs and cellular phones are not allowed in the classroom. Food and drinks are allowed in the classroom with discretion and the student is responsible for any clean up. A student lounge is located on the bottom floor of the MSW building and the cafeteria at the Geneva General Hospital is available. Core Performance Standards for Admission and Progression for Nursing Students SOME EXAMPLES OF NECESSARY ACTIVITIES (NOT all-inclusive) Critical Thinking: Identify cause-effect relationships in clinical situations, develop nursing care plans, and calculate medication dosages accurately. Interpersonal: Interpersonal abilities are sufficient to interact with individuals, families, and groups from a variety of social, emotional, cultural, and intellectual backgrounds. Establish and maintain supportive relationships with clients and other health care providers. Communication: Communication abilities sufficient for interaction with others in verbal and written 8
form. Explain treatment procedures, initiate health teaching, document and interpret nursing actions and client responses. Mobility: Physical abilities sufficient to move from room to room and maneuver in small spaces. Ability to lift, position push, or transfer clients. Move around in clients rooms, work spaces, and treatment areas; administer CPR. Pushes, pulls, or moves/lifts equipment/supplies (up to 50 pounds). Ability to reach, stoop, bend, kneel, crouch. Prolonged standing/walking Motor Skills: Gross and fine motor abilities sufficient to provide safe and effective nursing care. Calibrate and use equipment; position clients; assist clients in and out of bed. Use coordinated finger and hand movements. Hearing: Auditory ability sufficient to monitor and assess health needs. Hears monitor alarm, emergency signals, auscultatory sounds, cries for help. Visual: Near and far visual acuity. Sufficient for observation, assessment, and implementation of nursing regimen. Observes client responses; reads clients records, including physicians orders; administers and documents medications; reads gauges, digital printouts, and computer screens. Tactile: Tactile ability sufficient for assessment of physical health status. Performs palpation, functions of physical assessment (take a pulse and perceive temperature) and/or those related to therapeutic intervention, e.g., insertion of a catheter. Smell: Olfactory senses sufficient for maintaining environmental and client safety. Distinguish smells that are contributory to assessing and/or maintaining client s health status, e.g., smell fire. Self-Care: Ability to present professional appearance and implement measures to maintain own health and not place clients in jeopardy. Implement universal precautions. Use good personal hygiene. Environment: Ability to work in health care settings. Works in environment with temperature changes, frequent contact with water or other liquids, sufficient noise to cause distraction, and hazards where there is danger to body or health. Credit by Examination MSWSPN accepts college credits from AP and CLEP. Course credit varies by performance on the exam. Advanced Placement (AP) MSWSPN recognizes the Advanced Placement program and will grant transfer credit for courses required for our programs to those students who have completed the Advanced Placement Test with a grade of 3 or higher. A score of 4 or 5 is required on the English Comp/Lit or English Lang/Comp exam in order for a student to be granted credit for both Freshman English and Introduction to Literature. Advanced Placement credit is accumulated with transfer credit. College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) MSWSPN accepts credits earned by students completing the subject examinations for courses required for our programs taken through the College Level Examination Program (CLEP). A minimum score of 50 must be achieved in order for transfer credit to be granted. 9
Enrollment Enrollment in the nursing program is limited due to the availability of clinical facilities. The ratio of faculty to student will not be greater than 1:10 in the acute care clinical area and 1:10 in the long term clinical area, based on the requirements of the New York State Education Department. GRADING/CREDITS Course grade is based on a point system see individual course requirements for course grade. Letter grades are based on quality points: A = 96-100% (4.0) A- =90-95% (3.67) B+= 87-89% (3.33) B = 83-86% (3.0) B- = 80-82% (2.67) C+ = 77-79% (2.33) C= 73-76% (2.0) C- = 70-72% (1.67) D+ = 67-69% (1.33) D= 63-66% (1.00) D- = 60-62% (.67) F = 0-59% (0 quality points) Any student receiving below a 77% in any of the nursing classes as defined in each course syllabus will be dismissed from the program and must submit a written request to the Dean to be considered for reinstatement into the program. A reminder that a C is required in each of the liberal arts classes and a grade below a C in will result in the inability to complete the program requirements. If needed the student may take out of sequential order as long as all program requirements are met before graduation. In the event that a student completes all nursing courses but fails to complete the liberal arts requirements, he/she may finish the nursing courses but will not be considered a graduate and therefore will not participate in graduation events until all course work is completed and verified. An P (pass) or F (fail) shall be used in final grading of clinical practice. An F (fail) in clinical practice results in failure of the course. In addition, points are awarded for clinical assignments and are reflected in the final course grade. In the event a student fails a course and later retakes it, both grades will be recorded. However, only the second grade will be computed in the GPA index. If the student retakes a course at an institution other than MSWSPN or FLCC, the course will revert to a transfer status credit and neither grade will be computed in the index. All grades received from the School of Nursing or FLCC will be computed in the GPA. Transfer credit may only be given for courses with a C or better. Gifts It is inappropriate to accept gratuities or gifts from students. It is recommended that students not present gifts to individual faculty members, however if a student wishes to give a gift, they may do so to the school or class. Honors and Awards The faculty supports the recognition of student achievement throughout the nursing program. At each graduation ceremony students will be recognized for various achievements and strengths. Housing Currently the available facilities do not support housing however; often time community residents may have housing available. Please contact the Student Services Coordinator for further information. Inclement Weather 10
To reduce potential travel hazards for students, the nursing programs may be closed for class and clinical experiences at the discretion of the Dean. Students are responsible to check electronic means of notification, such as email/typhon and/or listen to television/ radio reports on school closings. Channel 13, Rochester, provides information on local school closings. Faculty will notify the clinical areas if the nursing program is canceled or closed. Liability Insurance Student liability insurance for the clinical area is required of each student prior to beginning the clinical experience and every year thereafter. This is included in student fees. Physical Examination Written documentation of emotional and physical ability to carry out the normal activities of nursing care must be demonstrated by a report of physical examination by a licensed practicing physician or nurse practitioner and completion of a personal health history. The student services office may require an update on any physical. Information provided on this document includes: tuberculin skin testing, as well as rubella, and rubeola screening or immunizations. A tuberculin skin test is required initially and a PPD will be required annually, except under certain circumstances which may require the proof of a negative chest x-ray and yearly TB questionnaires. Documentation of emotional and physical ability to carry out the normal activities of nursing care may be required for continuation in the program if health status changes following admission. Program Dismissal/ Termination A student may be dismissed from the school when there is sufficient evidence to show: violations of The School of Nursing code of honor (see Academic Integrity policy) academic failure (see Academic Progress and Grading policy) unsafe clinical practice a failure to comply with School/Hospital/Agency policies and procedures excessive absences with failure to initiate a plan for make-up experiences, or absences beyond the school s ability to accommodate the make-up experiences behavior which is unprofessional/inappropriate conduct that jeopardizes the safety of self, students, patients or others failure to meet financial obligations or health requirements violation of the drug/alcohol policy inappropriate use of social media failure to complete all required lab skills and assignments If a student is unsuccessful in a nursing course due to mental or physical illness, a plan of treatment and written proof of completion, by an appropriate authority, must be submitted before the student will be considered for readmission. Remediation Remediation is available to any student needing assistance with lecture material or clinical skills. Faculty is available by appointment for one-on-one or group remediation. Remediation is required with some courses if scores (i.e. unit exams, standardized exams) fall below specific levels. Seek guidance from program coordinator concerning remediation needs. Skills Laboratory 11
The skills lab offers students their first hands-on experience. Lessons consist of demonstration, discussion, and practice time. Skills, which increase in complexity throughout the students course of study, are integrated with course content and are designed to meet clinical requirements. Lab sections are usually small, enabling students to participate in individualized learning. Attendance for the allotted time period is required of all students as part of their clinical preparation. It is necessary to complete the required hours of lab, otherwise, it may be impossible to meet objectives or demonstrate skill competency. Student Nurses Association All nursing students are eligible for membership in the Student Nurse Association which is a national professional organization. The purposes of the Student Nurse Association are to influence the quality of health care, to provide for educational programs, and to assist with the professional development of its members. Student Responsibilities for Registration The student is responsible for seeking academic advisement from their Nursing Advisor prior to registering each semester. The student will register for all courses including the liberal arts provided by FLCC through the Student Services Coordinator at MSWSPN. Students do not register for courses directly with FLCC. The student is responsible for being withdrawn prior to the withdrawal date. The student must inform the Student Services Coordinator of any withdrawal (general education or Nursing courses). Student desiring to return to the programs must seek placement in nursing classes by the Dean of the College. Completion of all required courses for the curriculum in nursing is ultimately the student s responsibility. Student Services Many services are provided for the students who attend either one of the nursing programs and are listed below. 1. College Orientation 2. Career Advisement 3. Veteran Benefits 4. Academic services at FLCC 5. Student Support Services Transcript Request Students requesting an official transcript must submit a transcript request form including a fee of $7.00. Unofficial transcripts are released to the student/graduate by submitting a written request to the Student Services Coordinator. No transcript or reference will be sent without the student s written permission. All financial obligations must be cleared in order to be eligible for a transcript and/or a letter of recommendation Transfer-In Policy for the Nursing Courses 12
Accepted applicants with college credit in nursing from an accredited school and a grade of "C+" or better received within the past two years may be granted credit for Nursing Fundamentals. The individual may enter the program in January, provided all requirements are met and space is available. All students must complete Trimester II and Trimester III consecutively in order to graduate. Requirements for Transfer Applications and transcripts must be received by the school by September 1st at the latest for consideration of enrollment the following January. All admission criteria and requirements must be met in order to begin classes. Assessment of Nursing Skills The applicant must demonstrate/review the listed skills in the nursing lab: 1. Vital signs 2. Sterile gloving 3. Dressing changes 4. Oxygen administration 5. Performing a basic physical examination Students must complete all skills before starting in January. Tests are conducted by individual appointment and each student will be allowed two attempts to complete the skill successfully. There will be one scheduled demonstration day and one mandatory day for skills validation. Transportation The student will be responsible for his/her own transportation to and from agencies utilized for clinical experiences. It is necessary for students to have reliable transportation. ACADEMIC INFORMATION Academic Standing/Probation Students are in good academic standing when they have a GPA of 2.33 in each of the nursing courses and a GPA of 2.0 or better in every liberal arts course. Faculty members systematically evaluate students progress throughout the program. This evaluation includes both theory and clinical practice. Students may access their grades at the end of each semester via Empower. All obligations, financial or otherwise, must be cleared in order for students to receive grades, be promoted or to graduate. Criteria for Repeating Courses Clinical Nursing Courses: A student must successfully repeat a failed nursing course (GPA and course requirements must be followed). A second failure in any nursing course may result in academic dismissal and the student may not return again. Please Note: If a student wishes to repeat any nursing course he/she must have a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 in non-nursing courses. A student must successfully repeat a failed liberal arts course. A second failure in any liberal arts course may result in academic dismissal. Dismissal 13
The Director of the School of Nursing reserves the right to dismiss a student for unsatisfactory academic or clinical achievement, mental/physical health safe patient care, performance and/or attendance or unacceptable social or moral conduct, failure to follow stated policies/ procedures or failure to develop the core performance standards essential to the profession of nursing. Students have the right to appeal and the right to be heard on grievances in accordance with the procedures established by the faculty of both nursing programs. One-Plus-One Transfer Agreement This agreement establishes a direct relationship between the Department of Nursing at the Finger Lakes Community College and the Marion S. Whelan School of Practical Nursing of Geneva General Hospital. The purpose of this agreement is to facilitate educational and career mobility for those students who complete their education for practical nursing at MSW and who wish to continue studies for an Associate in Applied Science degree at FLCC. Up to eight students who complete the revised course of study in practical nursing at MSW, have graduated, and who meet all the admission criteria for FLCC and the Department of Nursing, are hereby assured the opportunity to pursue the AAS degree in Nursing at FLCC and that they will complete that degree within one year of full time study distributed in prescribed areas which constitute the curricular nursing course work. In addition, a minimum of twelve credits is general education course work must be taken toward the AAS degree to fulfill the residence requirement of 32 semester hours of credit at FLCC for those planning to transfer credit from another college. This agreement is consistent with the FLCC Mission Statement and Philosophy of Nursing Program in commitment to a humanistic approach to education and to meeting the needs of people as individuals as well as the belief that education is a continuing and dynamic life-long process. It further recognized the ladder concept in career education to minimize repetitive course work and the trend to require the associate s degree for entry level of nursing practice. To this end it is essential that both schools communicate on a regular basis so that the curriculum of MSW, while preparing graduates for practical nursing in one year, is consistent with and not in conflict with the curriculum of FLCC which is preparing graduates for registered nursing in two years. Applicants who have successfully completed the NUR 101 Challenge Exam will be expected to present a letter of intent by mid-may to the FLCC Department of Nursing indicating they plan to pursue the associate s degree in nursing at FLCC beginning the following September. An interview and advisement will be scheduled at FLCC to establish the evaluation and testing time frame (when required) for admission into the second year of the associate degree program. Graduate practical nurses from MSW will be expected to meet the following criteria prior to enrollment in the second year at FLCC: A. Meet admission criteria for the FLCC nursing program including successful completion of high school chemistry or its equivalent. B. Completion of the following general education courses with a minimum overall average 14
of C or better. Course Credit Hours Freshman English I - Composition 3 Freshman English II 3 Human Anatomy & Physiology I & II 8 Introduction to Psychology 3 Developmental Psychology 3 C. Completion of the following nursing content requirements: 1. Pass a NUR 101 challenge examination with a C or better. 2. Pass a Math of Medications test according to FLCC Nursing Department criteria for NUR 101 (i.e., maximum of three attempts). *3. Successfully demonstrate skill competencies in Medication Administration, Intravenous Infusion and Catheterization. *(If student does not immediately transfer into FLCC the year of graduation from MSW). It is recommended that the 1-credit course NUR 105 - Nursing Process - will be taken when offered. After successful completion of #1-3, a total of fourteen (14) credits will be granted: 6 Credits by agreement of credit worthiness from direct in-depth content analysis of theory and practicum for nursing fundamentals at MSW and 8 Credits by challenge examination for NUR 101 at FLCC. Students intending to transfer are expected to file an FLCC Application for Admission by January 15 of the same year they plan to enroll. As part of the admission procedure, all official high school, MSW, and college transcripts to date must be forwarded to the Admissions Office. Every effort will be made to process late applications. Applicants who meet the submission deadline and who have successful academic/clinical background meeting the aforementioned criteria will be guaranteed a place in the September sophomore class (maximum of eight students). Early application also facilitates filing for financial aid and student housing. Admission to FLCC will be conditional upon successful completion of all criteria prior to beginning of the sophomore year of the nursing curriculum. The guarantee of admission to FLCC sophomore status will be honored for up to eight students transferring the same year as graduation from MSW. The number may be increased depending on available clinical space. For a period of three years after graduating from MSW, graduates will be given special consideration for the One-Plus-One program on a space available basis. Graduates may take the challenge exam at any time within this five-year period. Students who do not meet the admission criteria for the One-Plus-One program may apply for the existing "Accelerated Option for LPNs". Space availability varies yearly with an average of ten to twenty applicants accepted each year. FLCC and MSW faculties will monitor this plan with total review and renewal every three years. Any curriculum changes in either educational institution shall be brought to the attention of the other. Termination by either party would require twelve-month notification and would not affect students already enrolled in the MSW or FLCC program at the time of notification. 15
Transfer Agreement MSW and FLCC Year One at MSW and GGH/FLCC Extension Center and Campus Trimester I Nursing I - Fundamentals at MSW/GGH ENG 101 - Freshman English I (Geneva Ext. Center) BIO 171 - Human Anatomy & Physiology I (Geneva Ext. Center - Lab at FLCC) Trimester II Nursing II at MSW/GGH PSY 100 - Introduction to Psychology (Geneva Ext. Center) BIO 172 - Human Anatomy & Physiology II (Geneva Ext. Center - Lab at FLCC) Trimester III Nursing III at MSW/GGH ENG 102 - Freshman English II (FLCC Summer Session at Geneva Ext. Center) PSY 200 - Developmental Psychology (FLCC Summer Session at Geneva Ext. Center) 3 cr 4 cr 3 cr 4 cr 3 cr 3 cr Challenge Exam NUR 101, Math Test, Skills Testing (when required), Nursing Process (when offered) - to be scheduled. Year Two at FLCC Fall Semester NUR 202 - Care of Adult & Child III BIO 230 - Microbiology SOC 100 - Introduction to Sociology Physical Education Spring Semester NUR 203 - Maternal/Child Nursing NUR 204 - Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing NUR 215 - Nursing Seminar Humanities Elective Elective 9 cr 4 cr 3 cr 1 cr 5 cr 4 cr 2 cr 3 cr 2-3 cr 16-17 cr 17 cr Program extension Students in good academic standing may request to extend their program of studies. Students must submit a request for extension in writing to the Director of the School of Nursing. The Director grants this request on an individual basis. Promotion and Continuance 16
Criteria for promotion: A minimum grade of 77% in all nursing courses A C is required in all non nursing courses A satisfactory clinical evaluation for each nursing course that requires a clinical component Completion of all required lab validation skills Reinstatement Students may request reinstatement by submitting a letter to the Director. Reinstatement is based on current criteria for admission to the nursing program, as well as completion of any contingencies placed on the student prior to leaving. Admission and placement of these students will be considered on an individual basis. Recommendations made by the faculty/advisor at the time of withdrawal will be reviewed as part of the reinstatement process. Access to student records in compliance with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (PL 93-579), students have the right to review their records. These records include the following: academic folder which is maintained in the Office of the Student Services Coordinator. In order to access the records, a request must be made in writing by the student to the Student Services Coordinator 72 hours in advance. Students must give written permission before educational information (including health records); transcripts or references will be released to another educational institution. Faculty wishing to review a student s file must sign the log sheet in each individual student s file. If students feel any portion of their file is false or misleading, they may request an amendment to the record. They may challenge the contents of their educational record through a formal grievance. They also have the right to file a complaint with the New York State Education Department if they feel access to their education records has been limited. Withdrawal If a student wishes to withdraw from any course or the program for personal, medical or academic reasons, a written request identifying the reason for the withdrawal must be submitted to the Director of the nursing program. A meeting will then be scheduled. A student withdrawing prior to the designated CLINICAL INFORMATION CPR/Preclinical Students are required to be certified in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) [American Heart Association or American Red Cross, health care provider, adult/child/infant]. They must give evidence of current certification. It is the student s responsibility to maintain current certification. Students will not be allowed to go to the clinical area without current preclinical and CPR documentation. Students are required to be educated concerning OSHA standards. This education is obtained by completing the preclinical courses located on Net Learning. Students should complete the mandatory preclinical education by logging on to https://www.mynetlearning.com/fingerlakes with their social security number. Please note that if you are a current employee of the health system, you will use your employee ID to log in. Students are to provide CPR and preclinical documentation to the Student Services Coordinator to be copied and placed in the academic file of each student. Professional Confidentiality 17
The importance of confidentiality cannot be overemphasized. It is mandatory that you adhere to all HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) standards. Discussion of clients must be limited to pre and post-conferences and nursing classes. At no time are clients to be discussed at breaks, on elevators, or in other inappropriate settings. Only client s initials may be used on written work. Client charts are confidential records and may not be photocopied. See Confidentiality Agreement in appendices. Professionalism and Ethics This handbook contains the policies for both groups of nursing students regarding, Student Drug Use Policy, and CAI Software Protection and Equipment Use Policy. Please read each policy at the back of this handbook. These forms will become a permanent part of your school record. In addition to the policies requiring a signature, please be aware that stealing and cheating, including plagiarism, will not be tolerated and are grounds for dismissal. Standards of Professional Practice In all situations, students are expected to demonstrate responsibility and accountability as professional nurses, with the ultimate goal being health promotion and prevention of harm to others. The faculty of each of the nursing programs believes that this goal will be attained if each student s daily clinical practice and behaviors are guided by the Standards of Professional Practice. Safe clinical performance is reflected in the Clinical Evaluation Tool. Unsatisfactory performance in any areas of Professional Practice will warrant a rating of U and subsequent failure of the clinical course. Any infraction occurring in any setting will be assigned and documented in the student s record. A violation of Professional Practice Standards always includes, but is not limited to, the following behaviors 1. Any action that jeopardizes client safety. 2. Any action that compromises client confidentiality. 3. Any action in which a student functions outside the scope of student nurse practice. 4. Any action or behavior violating agency policies and procedures. 5. Any action that does not uphold standards of the nursing profession or CON policies. The severity of a violation may warrant dismissal from the program at any time. Student Concerns Students who wish to communicate concerns about a course should first talk with the faculty or program coordinator. If the issue is not resolved, the student needs to talk with the Dean of the College. If the issue is still unresolved, the student needs to talk with Vice President of Human Resources. The student can communicate verbally or use the written Student Communication Form found in the appendix of this Handbook. Student Refusal of Clinical Assignment Student assignments are made conscientiously and are designed to meet learning needs of the student. Consideration to special needs of the students such as pregnancy or physical limitations may be included when making assignment. Student safety is also considered when clinical assignments are made. Students who are concerned about an assignment must review the American Nurses Association Code of Ethics, Universal Precautions, and/or relevant hospital policies prior to discussion of the assignment with the faculty. 18
This discussion will be documented and will include: 1. The nature of the assignment including data that indicate that the assignment is appropriate for the student based on the student s knowledge level. 2. The student s reasons for concern. 3. The final outcome/decision: A. If the risks to the student appear to be greater than the client s benefit, the faculty will alter the client care the student will give. If altered client care does not solve the problem, the faculty will reassign the student. B. If the risks to the student do not appear greater than the client s benefit, the faculty will explore with the student the nature of the inconsistency between student and faculty perception. The exploration should include the psychomotor, affective and cognitive domain of the student. If these perceptual inconsistencies cannot be resolved, the student will not meet the minimum professional standards stated on the clinical evaluation and this will be reflected in the evaluation. One copy of the documentation will be given to the student and the original will be placed in the student s folder. Uniform Code The uniform code applies whenever and wherever the uniform is worn. In the clinical area all students are to be in full uniform. Except when agency policy may state otherwise, most affiliating agencies require students to wear full uniform when going for data gathering. Picture IDs are to be worn in all clinical experiences. The student uniforms are to be worn only when functioning as a student of one of the nursing programs. In summary, the student must conform to the policy of the affiliating agency. Insofar as policies specific to the uniform, hair, jewelry, tattoos, cosmetics, fingernails, and gum, students are held accountable as outlined. Uniform: The uniform consists of navy blue scrub suits with and a white lab coat with the appropriate school logo. White/navy shoes and white/navy hose or white/navy socks are to be worn. Shoes are to be clean and polished. All-white leather tennis shoes are acceptable. No open toe shoes are allowed in any clinical setting. NOTE: Student may not visit friends or family in the hospital while in student uniform or during scheduled clinical time. Students are not allowed to wear their uniform while working as an agency employee. Uniform Accessories required for both programs o photo ID badge o a watch displaying seconds or that has a second hand o bandage scissors o stethoscope o blood pressure cuff o gait belts Hair: The hair is to be clean and groomed, pulled back close to head, away from face and off the neck. 19
No bows, ornamental clips or ribbons are to be worn in the hair. Over the ear styles are permissible for males provided it remains within a moderate length. Sideburns are to be no longer than the tip of the ear lobe with basic straight line style. They should be neatly trimmed. Mustaches should be conservatively styled and neatly trimmed. The student should follow the policy of the affiliating institution concerning beards. Jewelry: Only the wedding band ring may be worn. It should be noted that the engagement ring may cause injury to the client or someone else. Only name tags may be worn on the student uniform. Wearing of earrings must be limited to the small stud in the lobe only for pierced ears and only (1) earring per ear. No facial, tongue, or body jewelry is permitted. Tattoos: All visible tattoos must be covered. Cosmetics: Cosmetics are to be worn in moderation. Fingernails: Fingernails are to be clean and short: no nail polish or artificial nails is/are permitted. Perfume: Perfumes, after-shave lotions, colognes, and scented deodorants may cause allergic reactions in some individuals and are not to be worn. POLICIES Academic Integrity Policy Marion S. Whelan School of Practical Nursing recognizes the impact of enhanced learning through a collaborative student/teacher partnership. As an academic community faculty, staff, and students work together to acquire and extend knowledge, and develop skills and competencies in an effort to serve the health care needs of our community. Integrity is one of the foundations of the nursing program s core concept of professional behavior. The philosophy emphasizes a holistic approach to nursing care for the individual and inherent in this holistic approach is that the integrity of the individual has impact on self, others, the College and the community at large. Therefore, all members of the academic community are expected to commit themselves to personal and academic integrity inside and outside the classroom through the following Nursing Honor Code Commitment Statement As a member of the nursing program: I will be honest in actions and words and expect honesty from others. I will demonstrate only behaviors that reflect personal integrity by not giving or receiving aid on examinations or individually graded coursework at any time during my education. I will trust others and be worthy of trust. I will arrive on time and leave the area promptly so as not to arouse suspicion about my behavior. I will forthrightly oppose any instance of academic dishonesty. I will leave cell phones, paper, and calculators outside the testing area to avoid the temptation to violate my honor code. 20
I will not discuss/text any components of the exams and understand that this may lead to disciplinary action. I will treat others with respect and expect respect for myself, my views, and my abilities. I will observe silence during testing so that my peers and I may do our best work. I will treat others fairly and expect fair consequences when mistakes are made. I will take an active part in ensuring that my peers and I uphold the integrity and spirit of the honor code. I will discourage bigotry while striving to learn from differences in people, ideas, and opinions. I will demonstrate open, honest, and tolerant behavior at all times, refraining from behaviors which may threaten the freedom and respect owed to each individual. I will demonstrate concern for others, their feelings, and their need for an environment to support their work and development. I will recognize that my positive actions today may have benefit and influence not only on myself and my peers, but the college and community, at large. Suspected Acts of Dishonesty When a student is suspected of committing an act of dishonesty, the student will meet with the faculty as soon after the incident as possible. The faculty will inform the student of the accusation and review the evidence with the student. The student will have an opportunity to respond and/or present evidence or comment on the evidence that has been presented. If it is determined that a violation has taken place, the faculty will inform the student, in a timely manner, of the proposed action. A student may not withdraw from a course in order to avoid possible academic and disciplinary sanctions. If a student is suspected of committing an act of academic dishonesty, the case must be resolved before the student can initiate a withdrawal. In addition to any academic sanction, a student found to have committed an act of academic dishonesty may be immediately dismissed. ATI Testing Policy Accountability and Benchmarking Plan ATI is a learning resource that is used throughout the program. ATI includes both proctored and practice exams. The practice exams are done online, on the student s own time. Students are required to bring their score reports to their faculty as proof of completion when instructed to do so. Proctored Exam Grading Table Proficiency on Proctored Exams Points Awarded for Achievement on Points Awarded for Remediation/Focused Review Practice Exam 77% or higher TOTAL POINTS 21
or Probability of Passing Based on Comp Predictor Proficiency Level 3 or a (95+% chance, predictor) Proficiency Level 2 or a (86 94% chance, predictor) Proficiency Level 1 or a (81 85% chance, predictor) Below Level 1 or a (80% chance or lower, predictor) Proctored Exams Number of note cards optional in italics 9 X (none required) Must be completed before exam 1 point 6 2 (10 note cards) Must be completed before exam 1 point 3 3 (15 note cards) Must be completed before exam 1 point 1 3 (20 note cards) Must be completed before exam 1 point OUT OF TEN 10 9 7 5 Remediation Explanation: Remediation is suggested and rewarded. This involves: 1. Looking at the Topics to Review from your ATI Individual Performance Profile (from the proctored exam) 2. Looking up the related information in the ATI Review Module and writing the key points down on a 3 x5 note card. Please also write down the topic from your score report. 3. Submitting the required number of note cards to your instructor at the assigned due date. Proficiency Level Definitions: Below Proficiency Level One: Not currently meeting NCLEX standards in this content area. Proficiency Level One: Likely to just meet NCLEX standards in this content area. Proficiency Level Two: Fairly certain to meet NCLEX standards in this content area. Proficiency Level Three: Very likely to exceed NCLEX standards in this content area. Only Content Mastery Series tests (Medical-Surgical, Pharmacology, etc) have proficiency levels assigned to them. The PN Comprehensive Predictor will assign an expected probability of passing NCLEX-PN. Attendance Policy Students are expected to attend all classes, labs, and clinical. The administration and faculty feel strongly that attendance is critical to success in school. There is a direct relationship of performance to attendance. Abuse or lack of attention to attendance requirements will result in some type of departmental action up to and including administrative dismissal. Students should realize that attendance behaviors also relate to professional expectations of employers after graduation. The development of good work ethic practices including attendance begins in school. Attendance Guidelines Clinical attendance is mandatory in order for program objectives to be met and for student performance to be evaluated. The LPN program is a clock hour program and therefore completion of said hours must 22
be complete in order to meet program requirements. Each student is expected to complete the required academic and clinical hours identified in the curriculum plan. The program schedule allows time for all appointments for doctors, dentists, etc., to be made when school is not in session. Any classroom/ clinical/ lab absence in excess of 10% of the scheduled time may result in dismissal from either program. Decisions regarding dismissal due to excessive absence will be made at the discretion of the Dean and the faculty. All missed lab or clinical time is required to be made up and fees assessed. Clinical/ lab make-up time will be scheduled according to faculty availability. A fee of $15.00 for 1-4 hours and $35 for 4-8 hours will be charged for clinical make-up time. All make-up assignments/ clinical experiences must be completed as scheduled by the faculty or the student may be dismissed from the program. Special situations will be considered on an individual basis at the discretion of the Dean and the faculty. Procedure It is of utmost importance that any illness, absence or lateness be reported so that we can maintain effective infection control and be able to identify the location of the student in case of an emergency. Any clinical absence in excess of three days must be confirmed by written documentation. If absence is due to illness, a physician's statement allowing the student to return must be received at the school office before the student may return to the classroom or clinical area. The faculty may ask a student to leave the classroom or clinical area because of illness. The following procedure will be followed when an absence, illness or lateness occurs: On class days: As adult learners, it is the expectation that students will attend class. When this does not occur, it is the student s responsibility to obtain class notes and/or assignments. You must call the school office if you are going to be absent on the day of a scheduled exam or you will receive a zero for your exam score. The call must be received by the school prior to the scheduled start time of the exam. On clinical days: The student must call the school office (787-4005) 30 minutes prior to start time. If your call is answered by the voice mail system, leave a message containing the following information: 1) Name 2) *Reason for absence or lateness 3) The clinical unit you are assigned to on that day. *If late, report your estimated arrival time. NOTE: A student who arrives more than thirty (30) minutes past the designated start time will be sent home and counted as absent for the day. Failure to comply with this policy shows a lack of responsibility on the student s part and also demonstrates a lack of understanding the importance of client care. Records of the student s attendance are kept on file in Empower. Attendance reflects days of the program that are missed by the student. 23
Throughout the year, the faculty may arrange supplemental learning experiences such as guest speakers, required clinical rotations or in-service programs which are scheduled in addition to the set curriculum hours. It is the expectation that students make arrangements to attend. Disability and Accommodation Policy The students of MSW School of Nursing are protected from discrimination by the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 when diagnosed with a disability. Special accommodations may be granted when a documented existence of a disability substantially limits a major life activity. Each individual is evaluated on an individual basis. Analysis of the following may determine whether limitation of a major life activity exist in a substantial manner: 1) The nature and severity of the impairment 2) The duration of the impairment and 3) The permanent or long-term impact of the impairment If you are a student that is seeking accommodations related to your documented disability, it is your responsibility to confidentially and voluntarily disclose information regarding the nature of the disability to Ann Drake, Student Services Coordinator and/or Vicki Record, Director of MSW School of Nursing. Requests for accommodations should be submitted as early as possible with supporting documentation. Please see Ann Drake for a form specific to request testing modifications. Submit this form with supportive documentation. Requests will be reviewed in a timely manner and the student will be notified of the determination of the request for accommodations. Guidelines for Supportive Documentation Each individual student will provide the following with the student request form for special accommodations: 1. A statement of the learning, physical or mental disability (diagnosis) from a licensed professional who uses language specific is substantiating the diagnosis. NOTE: Stating an individual has test anxiety, learning differences or various learning styles independently, does not constitute substantiated evidence of a learning disability. 2. A written clinical summary with rationales substantiating the need for the requested accommodations must include specific testing data, a diagnostic interview with case history, and any other supporting documents. Testing results should reflect that a substantial limitation to learning exists and how it relates to the specific functional limitations requiring the requested accommodation. All supportive data from testing must be recent (within 3 years) and validate the need for requested service. 3. A student who has an IEP or 504 Plan may submit this with supporting documentation of completed testing (must be recent within 3 years). Supportive documentation may typically include, but not be limited to the following: For a student diagnosed with a Learning Disability: A. A complete intellectual assessment with all standard scores reported. B. An achievement test must be comprehensive assessing math, reading, and written/oral language skills must be completed. Report must include all available scores. The tests should include current levels of functioning. C. An assessment of information processing skills (memory, processing and motor skills). 24
D. A written summary is required to accompany all requests made for accommodations. The summary must include: 1. A statement of how the testing results correlate to and substantiate the student s diagnosis. 2. Specific request for accommodation(s) with an explanation as to why each accommodation is necessary. Recommendations must be supported with specific test results and/or clinical observations attached. 3. Identify previous use of special accommodations student has required and information regarding when specific accommodations were previously used. For physical and/or psychological disability: A. Documentation must include the student s specific diagnosis, prognosis and medications used. Submitted written documentation must meet the requirements as stated above under Guidelines for Supportive Documentation. Locating a Qualified Professional for Testing This is a list of possible resources a student who is looking for a qualified professional for academic testing. In addition to the following resources, there are agencies in most areas that may refer students to professionals or diagnosticians qualified to conduct an assessment appropriate for an adult learner. Check the telephone listings for: Learning Disabilities Association of America this is usually listed with the name of the City or County listed first Adult literacy programs or literacy councils Educational therapist or learning specialist in private practice International Dyslexia Association State Vocational Rehabilitation Agency VESID service University-affiliated hospitals Special Education departments and/or disability support service offices in colleges or universities Private schools or institutions specializing in Learning Disabilities Adult education in the public school system Guidance counselors in high schools Counseling or study skills center at a local college or university Community mental health agency Questions to Ask Qualified Professionals Have you tested many adults with learning disabilities How long will the assessment take? What will the assessment cover? Will there be a written and an oral report of the assessment? Will our discussion give me more information regarding why I am having trouble with my job or job training, school, or daily life? 25
Will you also give me ideas on how to improve my skills and how to compensate for my disability? Will the report make recommendations about where to go for immediate help? What is the cost? What does the cost cover? What are possibilities and costs for additional consultation? Can insurance cover the costs? Are there funding sources? Can a payment plan be worked out? Reference: Learning Disabilities Association of America www.ldaamerica.org DRUG USE POLICY MSWSPN is committed to the establishment and maintenance of a drug-free school for its students and employees. The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession or use of a controlled substance is prohibited in and on hospital owned or controlled property. The use of alcohol while on hospital owned or controlled grounds are absolutely prohibited except when authorized by the hospital for approved school functions. Procedures To insure compliance with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989, the following procedures shall be established and maintained: A. Annually all students and employees shall receive in writing the following: 1. Standards of conduct prohibiting the unlawful possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees on hospital property or as part of any of its activities except when authorized by the hospital for approved school functions. 2. The disciplinary sanctions the school will impose for violations of law and standards of conduct. Such sanctions shall include, but not limited to expulsion, termination of employment and referral for prosecution. 3. The health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and alcohol abuse. 4. The legal sanctions imposed by local, state and federal laws for the illegal possession or distribution of illicit drugs or alcohol. 5. The rehabilitation, counseling or re-entry programs available to students and employees. B. A biennial review to determine the program s effectiveness and, if necessary, make appropriate changes and to insure consistent enforcement or disciplinary sanctions. C. The accountability for the coordination of this program will be with the Director of the School of Nursing. The team members appointed by the Chief Executive Officer to implement this policy shall consist of, but not be limited to, the Director of the School of Nursing, the Director of Human Resources (or designee) and the Safety/Security Manager. Guidelines A. Sanctions for Violation of Noncompliance: In accordance with the school's corrective discipline 26
policy and to provisions in the Employee Handbook, corrective action will be imposed and/or satisfactory participation in a drug rehabilitation program may be required by a student who is found to be in violation of this policy. B. Compliance as a Condition of Employment and/or Enrollment: Compliance with the provisions of this policy shall be a condition of employment/enrollment at the Marion S. Whelan School of Practical Nursing. C. Employee/Student Obligation of Notification of Conviction: In compliance with federal law, any staff member convicted of any criminal drug statute violation which has occurred in or on the workplace premises is required to notify the employer within five (5) calendar days following such conviction. D. Employer/Student Obligation of Notification: The school is obligated to notify the appropriate federal contracting agency, if applicable, within ten (10) days of receipt of notice of an employee/student conviction as described in "C" above. E. Maintenance of a Drug-Free School Environment: Good faith efforts on the part of the College of Nursing to establish and maintain a drug-free school will include providing ongoing drug awareness educational programs and dissemination of drug awareness information for all members of the staff and students, as well as implementation and strict enforcement of this policy. GRIEVANCE POLICY Instructional Problems and/or Grievances The purpose of the student grievance procedure is to provide a system to channel student complaints concerning the following: 1. Alleged discrimination on the basis of age, sex, race, handicap or other conditions, preferences or behavior. 2. Academic matters, excluding individual s grades. Each year when the student association is formed, a Student Affairs/ Grievance Appeal Committee is formed. The Chairperson of the Committee is elected by the class. There are 2-6 volunteers from the class who serve on the committee. One of the committee purposes is to bring to the attention of the Dean and Faculty any problems or concerns of the student body by sending a representative to faculty meetings as needed. The appeal procedure may be followed if a student feels that it is necessary. Directions: A. If a student believes he or she has been unfairly treated, the student shall discuss the matter with the person involved. This discussion shall be held within five (5) instructional days following the event which is causing the grievance. All grievances should be brought to the attention of the Dean. B. If, within five (5) instructional days following the student s attempt to resolve the matter as described in paragraph A above, the student feels a satisfactory resolution has not been achieved; the student may present the grievance to the Site Administrator at Geneva General Hospital. C. The grievant shall present his/her grievance/appeal in writing and shall include a statement specifying the nature of the grievance, summary of actions taken by the student to resolve the grievance and any proposed solution to the problem the grievant may wish to offer. D. Within five (5) instructional days, the student and Site Administrator will discuss the grievance in an attempt to find a satisfactory solution. The person involved in the grievance may be included in the 27
discussion at the invitation of the Site Administrator or the student. Both the student and the person involved are entitled to the same opportunities to have others present during a disciplinary proceeding. The Site Administrator will render a decision within seven (7) days. This decision will be final. Both the grievant and the person involved shall be informed of the outcome. Please see posted information regarding The State Education Department Complaint Procedure. Social Media Policy Social media are powerful communication tools that have a significant impact on organizational and professional reputations. Because they blur the lines between personal voice and institutional voice, MSWSPN has crafted the following policy to help clarify how best to enhance and protect personal and professional reputations when participating in social media. Social media are defined as media designed to be disseminated through social interaction, created using highly accessible and scalable techniques. Examples include but are not limited to LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and MySpace. Both in professional and institutional roles, students need to follow the same behavioral standards online as they would in real life. The same laws, professional expectations, and guidelines for interacting with students, parents, alumni, and others apply online as in the real world. Students are liable for anything they post to social media sites. Social Media Policy (cont d): Best Practices This section applies to those posting on behalf of MSWSPN/Finger Lakes Health and the profession of nursing, though the guidelines may be helpful for anyone posting on social media in any capacity Protect confidential and proprietary information: Do not post confidential or proprietary information about MSWSPN students or alumni, or Finger Lakes Health employees and patients. Students must still follow the applicable federal requirements such as FERPA and HIPPA regulations. Adhere to all applicable Finger Lakes Health privacy and confidentiality policies. Students who share confidential information do so at the risk of disciplinary action or termination, remember you are liable. Respect copyright and fair use: When posting, be mindful of the copyright and intellectual property rights of others. Think twice before posting: Privacy does not exist in the world of social media. Consider what could happen if a post becomes widely known and how that may reflect both on the student and the organization. Search engines can turn up posts years after they are created, and comments can be forwarded or copied. If you wouldn t say it at a conference or to a member of the media, consider whether you should post it online. If you are unsure about posting something or responding to a comment, don t do it. Strive for accuracy: Get the facts straight before posting them on social media. Review content for grammatical and spelling errors. This is especially important if posting on behalf of MSWSPN in any capacity. Be respectful: Understand that content contributed to a social media site could encourage comments or discussion of opposing ideas. Responses should be considered carefully in light of how they would reflect on MSWSPN and its institutional voice. 28
Remember your audience: Be aware that a presence in the social media world is or easily can be made available to the public at large. This includes prospective students, current students, prospective or current employers, colleagues, and peers. Consider this before publishing to ensure the post will not alienate, harm, or provoke any of these groups or yourself. On personal sites: identify your views as your own. If you identify yourself as a MSWSPN STUDENT, it should be clear that the views expressed are not necessarily those of the institution. Photography: Photographs posted on social media sites easily can be appropriated by visitors. Consider adding a watermark and/or posting images at 72 dpi and approximately 800x600 resolutions to protect your intellectual property. Images at that size are sufficient for viewing on the Web, but not suitable for printing. Protect the institutional voice: Posts on social media sites should protect the institutional voice by remaining professional in tone and in good taste. No individual post should construe its social media site as representing the institution as a whole. Consider this when naming pages or accounts, selecting a profile picture or icon, and selecting content to post names, profile images, and posts should all be clearly linked to the particular person rather than to the institution as a whole. STUDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES Financial Aid We believe that any student who is accepted and wants to attend MSWSPN should be able to do so. We work hard to help students find the financial resources they need. Our Financial Aid Counselor provides information and advice to help students and their families apply for federal and state aid, student loans and scholarships. MSWSPN participate in a number of federal and state financial aid programs. All financial aid programs (federal, state or private) can be divided into three (3) categories: 1. GRANTS these financial aid programs are gift-type aid not requiring repayment. 2. SCHOLARSHIPS these are funds you may have received from outside sources. Generally, scholarships do not have to be repaid, however, under certain circumstances; they may require you to agree to certain service obligations. 3. LOANS Loans are awarded to students with the agreement that they will be repaid. Financial Aid Application Process The process begins with three applications: 1. Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or renewal FAFSA. 2. New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) Application (generated from the FAFSA for NYS residents). 3. Geneva General Hospital Financial Aid Supplement (provided to student upon acceptance). The FAFSA and TAP application are available online. These forms should be filed with the appropriate parties as soon as possible after (not before) Jan. 1. In order to be considered for the greatest amount of assistance, it is recommended that the student submits these applications by June 1. The FAFSA is 29
processed by the Central Processor, who in turn sends the student a Student Aid Report (SAR) which explains eligibility for federal financial aid. The Central Processor also sends the financial aid office an electronic copy of this report. This information is used, along with the NYS Tuition Assistance Application, to determine how much financial assistance the student may be eligible to receive. Once all applicable applications are on file, the Financial Aid Counselor sends a financial aid award letter stating the sources, types, and amounts of assistance available to help the student afford their education Sources of Financial Aid The following are the known sources of financial aid available to students who enroll at MSWSPN. The recommended filing date for federal, state, and institutional sources of financial aid is June 1 or earlier. 1) Federal Student Financial Aid The following is a list of federal financial assistance programs for which students enrolled at MSWSPN may qualify. Unless otherwise indicated, students apply by submitting a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Aid from most of the federal programs described herein is awarded on the basis of financial need. When a student completes the FAFSA, the information reported is used in a formula (established by the U.S. Congress) that calculates an Expected Family Contribution (EFC). The EFC is subtracted from the cost of attending MSWSPN to determine a student s financial need. After all eligibility requirements have been met (see below), unless otherwise indicated, funds are credited (one payment per term) to the student s account no earlier than thirty (30) days after the start of each term. Additional information and criteria specific to each program is listed below. Eligibility Requirements: All recipients of federal student aid must meet the following requirements: be a US citizen or permanent resident have earned a high school diploma or GED make Satisfactory Academic Progress toward completion of your program not be in default on any federal student loan or owe a refund on a federal grant or loan complete the 2010-2011Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) provide all required documents to the MSWSPN Financial Aid Counselor by specified deadlines. Federal Pell Grant This federally sponsored, need-based grant program is for enrolled undergraduate students who have not earned a bachelor s or professional degree. Amount: Up to $5,550 (for the 2012-2013 award year), depending on EFC, cost of attendance, enrollment status (full-time, part-time, one semester, two semesters, etc.), and federal appropriations. Academic Competiveness Grant (ACG) The FSEOG Program provides need-based grants to low-income undergraduate students. The financial aid office determines the maximum annual award based on its allocation of funds from the Department of Education. Priority is given to those students with "exceptional need" (those with the lowest expected family contributions, [ 0 EFCs], at the institution) and those who are also Federal Pell Grant recipients. Amount: $100.00 - $150.00 per term. Subsidized Federal Stafford Loan This federally-sponsored, need-based loan program (which must be repaid) is for students enrolled at 30
least half-time. The interest rate is fixed at 6.8 percent beginning July 1, 2012. The federal government pays interest while the student is in school. The Department of Education sends the loan proceeds to the school via Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT). One (1) percent in origination and default fees may be deducted proportionately from each disbursement. Repayment begins six months after the student graduates, leaves school, or drops below half-time enrollment. (Students who received their first federal Stafford loan after 7/1/93 have the option of repaying the loan using a fixed, graduated, or incomesensitive repayment plan, but are required to repay the loan within 10 years.) The minimum monthly payment is $50. Amount: Freshmen, up to $3,500, sophomores, up to $4,500. Unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loan This federally sponsored loan program is for students enrolled at least halftime. Terms are the same as described above for subsidized Stafford loan except that: (1) unsubsidized interest rate is fixed at 6.8 percent beginning July 1, 2008; (2) unsubsidized loans are not based on need; and (3) students must either pay the interest while in school or capitalize the interest (which is added to the principal to be repaid). One (1) percent in origination and default fees may be deducted proportionately from each disbursement. Repayment begins six months after the student graduates, leaves school, or drops below half-time enrollment. (Students who received their first federal Stafford loan after 7/1/93 have the option of repaying the loan using a fixed, graduated, or income-sensitive repayment plan, but are required to repay the loan within 10 years.) The minimum monthly payment is $50. Amount: Same as federal subsidized plus an additional $2,000 in unsubsidized Stafford loans over the limits discussed in this section. Additional Unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loan Independent undergraduate or dependent students whose parents are unable to get a federal PLUS loan (see Federal Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students) may borrow additional funds under this program. Terms are the same as described above under the federal unsubsidized Stafford loan program. Amount: Freshmen, up to $4,000 (in addition to $3,500 subsidized Stafford); sophomores, up to $4,000 (in addition to $4,500 subsidized Stafford). Sample Repayment Schedule- 6.8 percent Loan Amount # of Monthly Monthly Total Finance Charge Payments Payment $1,000.00 21 $50.65 $63.59 $2,625.00 62 $50.34 $394.09 $3,500.00 90 $49.77 $978.44 $6,125.00 120 $70.51 $2,335.35 $10,00.00 120 $115.12 $3,812.78 $20,00.00 120 $230.23 $7,625.98 $50,000.00 120 $575.56 $19,065.96 Federal Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS) This federal loan program is for credit-worthy parents of dependent, undergraduate students who enroll at least half-time, regardless of need. For 2010-2011, the interest rate is fixed at 7.9 percent. Repayment typically begins within 60 days of the final loan disbursement, but it may be deferred until six months after the student ceases to be enrolled at least half time. The loan proceeds are sent to MSWSPN by the Department of Education. Origination and default fees may be deducted proportionately from each disbursement. 31
Amount: The yearly limit is equal to the student s cost of attendance minus any other financial aid received. Federal Student Loan Consumer Information 1. All borrowers must participate in Entrance Counseling before their first loan disbursement is made. 2. All borrowers must participate in Exit Counseling before graduation. 3. You must repay student loans with all accrued interest plus any origination fee charged. 4. The minimum monthly repayment amount is $50 and the maximum repayment period is ten years; a sample repayment schedule appears below. 5. You should read and retain all loan documents you receive. 6. To remain eligible for subsequent student loan disbursements, you must maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress as described in this handbook. 7. If you withdraw you may be entitled to a tuition refund, and part or all of that refund may need to be returned to the US Department of Education, as described in this handbook. 8. It is your responsibility to inform your lender of any change in your school attendance status, address, name, or phone number. 9. Before you borrow any loan, you should seriously and honestly consider your future ability to repay. 10. There are alternative repayment options available to you, such as prepayment without penalty, graduated payments, loan consolidation, deferments when you are in school, postponement (called forbearance ) when you are unable to pay because of financial hardship, etc. You must request these from the loan holder. 11. There are student loan deferments available while serving in the Peace Corps, under Domestic Volunteer Service Act, or as a volunteer for a tax-exempt organization with demonstrated effectiveness in the field of community service. Other deferments are also available. 12. You must repay your loan even if you do not complete your education, if you are not satisfied with your education, or if you cannot find employment in your field. 13. If you fail to apply for deferment or forbearance (or you apply but are not eligible) and you do not repay this student loan it will go into default status, the consequences of which are described below. Consequences of Student Loan Default 1. You can be sued for the entire amount of your loan. 2. Your credit rating can be severely damaged, making it difficult to borrow money for a car or home, or to receive credit cards. The default status can remain on your credit report for several years after you pay the loan in full. 3. Your federal Treasury payments (including federal tax refunds) and state income tax refunds may be withheld. 4. Your wages can be garnished. 5. You won't be eligible to receive any more federal financial aid (and possibly state aid) unless you make acceptable arrangements to repay what you already owe. 6. You may be ineligible for assistance under most federal benefit programs. 7. You will be ineligible or deferments or forbearance. 8. You will be liable for the costs associated with collecting your loan, including court costs and attorney fees. 32
9. You may not be able to renew a professional license you hold or may jeopardize your chances for certain types of employment. 10. Your loan may be assigned to a professional collection agency. 2) New York State Financial Aid The following is a list of New York state programs for which students enrolled at MSWSPN may qualify. Unless indicated, students apply by submitting a FAFSA (or renewal FAFSA) and a New York State Electronic TAP Application. Generally, after all eligibility requirements have been met, funds are credited (one payment per term) to the student s account. Additional information and criteria specific to each program are listed here. Eligibility Requirements: To be eligible for NYS financial aid, you must be a New York State resident for 12 consecutive months before the term for which assistance is sought and attend an eligible school or college located in New York State. You must file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), New York State Electronic TAP Application and list a New York State school or college on the form. Additionally, you must: Be a United States citizen or eligible non-citizen Be a legal resident of New York State Have graduated from high school in the United States, earned a GED, or passed a federally approved "Ability to Benefit" test as defined by the Commissioner of the State Education Department Have at least a cumulative "C" average after receipt of two annual payments Not be in default on a student loan guaranteed by HESC or on any repayment of state awards Meet income eligibility limitations Be meeting New York State Satisfactory Academic Progress and Pursuit of Program standards New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP): This entitlement program is based on New York state net taxable income for New York state residents and tuition liability. To be eligible, student must be attending college full-time (12+ credits per semester) in New York State. Maximum Annual Award: Depending on the academic year in which you begin study, an annual TAP award can be up to $5,000. New York State Aid for Part-Time Study (APTS): This grant program is for New York state residents enrolled for 3-11 credits per semester, with awards based on New York state net taxable income. Application: In addition to the FAFSA and New York State Electronic TAP Application, submit an Aid for Part-Time Study Application. Contact the financial aid office for an application. Maximum Annual Award: Varies; limited funding available. Part-Time TAP: This grant program is for students who were first-time freshman after June 2007 that are taking 6-11 33
credits in the current semester. Students must have successfully completed 12 credits per semester in the previous two and maintained a C average. Maximum Annual Award: Varies Additional Programs Available Through New York State: Attica Award Child of a Veteran Vietnam Veteran Flight 587 Memorial Scholarship Flight 3407 Memorial Scholarship NYS Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarships Scholarship of Excellence Memorial Scholarship Public Employee Scholarship Robert C. Byrd Scholarship Merit Scholarship World Trade Center Memorial Scholarship War on Terrorism 3) Additional Financial Assistance Veterans Administration Educational Benefits This grant program is for eligible veterans and children of deceased veterans or service-connected disabled veterans. Applicants must provide verification of enrollment and any other documents required by the Veterans application and a copy of DD-214 or Notice of Basic Eligibility (NOBE) to the Office of Financial Aid. Benefits are paid monthly in accordance with VA regulations and enrollment status. Application: Contact any regional Veterans Administration Office, or call 1-800-827-1000. Maximum Annual Award: Varies. Outside Scholarships Outside scholarships are forms of aid that help students pay for their education. They are administered independently from the Financial Aid Office. It is the student s responsibility for seek out and apply for outside scholarships. There are several free scholarship databases available online. We encourage you to pursue these sources of assistance actively. Terms & Conditions of Financial Aid Awards 1. By accepting the funds on your award letter, you agree that any funds received under any federal, state or institutional student aid programs will be used solely for expenses related to your attendance at Geneva General Hospital. 2. Additional assistance such as scholarships, tuition assistance or veterans benefits, can result in an adjustment of aid offered by MSWSPN. Adjustments can include cancellation and repayment of aid. Any funds received in excess of need or your estimated cost of attendance as determined by the MSWSPN Financial Aid Office will require an adjustment to your awards. 3. You may have your financial need recalculated if there has been a significant change in your family s financial situation. However, this may not necessarily result in an increase in aid. 4. The Financial Aid Office reserves the right to review, adjust or cancel awards at any time due to changes in student finances, residency or academic status or because of adjustments in federal or state regulations, funding, computation error or receipt of additional aid or scholarships. 5. If after filing your FAFSA you are convicted of possessing or selling drugs, you will notify the MSWSPN 34
Financial Aid Office. 6. You may not receive assistance from any other institution of higher education while you are receiving financial assistance at MSWSPN. 7. Financial aid is not automatically renewable; you must apply every year to be considered. To meet the priority deadline at MSWSPN, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) must be processed by April 15 for the upcoming school year. Rights & Responsibilities of Accepting Financial Aid Awards You have the right to Receive factual information about costs, aid opportunities, program policies, etc., through publications, correspondence, and online services. Confidentiality. All financial aid information submitted to the Financial Aid Office will remain confidential according to the College s policy regarding the release of information from student records pursuant to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1976. An answer. Any questions concerning the determination of your award can be answered by the Financial Aid Counselor. Accept all or part of the assistance offered. Award of one type of aid is not dependent upon acceptance of another. Have your financial need recalculated if there has been a significant change in your family financial situation. This may not necessarily result in an increase in your award. Examine your financial aid records. You may request an appointment with the Financial Aid Counselor. Dependent students cannot review their parents income information. Parents/spouses cannot view a student s information without written consent. Fair treatment. MSWSPN does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, national or ethnic origin, physical or mental disability, veteran status or age. Other consumer information. See the Financial Aid Counselor You are responsible Along with your parents, if you are a dependent student, for meeting your college costs. Financial aid may be available when your resources are not sufficient to meet those costs. For supplying complete and accurate information on all forms submitted. Funds obtained on the basis of false or misleading information must be repaid, could result in criminal prosecution, prison sentence and/or fine pursuant to U.S. Criminal Code. For reporting any assistance received from sources other than the MSWSPN Financial Aid Office. For submitting all requested documentation in a timely manner or by the date indicated. For reporting any change in circumstances that might affect your eligibility for financial aid. These changes include residency, enrollment status (withdrawing from a class or from school), class standing, increase or decrease of financial resources and marital status. For using financial aid funds for educational expenses related to your attendance at MSWSPN. For repaying all types of loan assistance. You must inform lenders of any changes in your name, address or enrollment status while you are attending school or after you leave or graduate. For being aware of all conditions that relate to the receipt of your financial aid. For meeting the Standards of Satisfactory Academic Progress outlined in this handbook. Maintaining Financial Aid Eligibility Satisfactory Academic Progress 35
When you accept financial aid, you are agreeing to meet the terms and conditions of your awards. One of the most important and misunderstood conditions of receiving aid is the requirement to make Satisfactory Academic Progress. U.S. Department of Education regulations require that Geneva General Hospital establish satisfactory academic progress standards for federal and state financial aid recipients. Students receiving Federal Pell Grants, SEOG Grants, Loans through the Direct Loan Programs, and/or any other Federal or State aid must meet the following standards to ensure that only those students demonstrating satisfactory academic progress towards the completion of their educational programs continue to receive financial aid. Title IV SAP To be eligible to receive federal financial aid (Federal Pell Grant, Federal SEOG Grant, and/or Federal Stafford Loans), you must be maintaining progress toward your degree. Maintaining academic progress at MSWSPN means you must: 1) Maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.2 on a 4.0 scale. 2) Satisfactorily complete at least 67% of the credits/hours you attempt each semester. You complete a course when you earn credit by receiving a passing grade. The following grades do not count toward your completed units (however, they do count toward attempted units): F, W, I. 3) Complete your educational program within a reasonable timeframe. The maximum number of hours you may attempt cannot exceed 150% of the hours required to complete your program. Transfer credits that are accepted toward a student s educational program are counted as both attempted and completed hours for SAP. Students enrolled at MSWSPN must complete their certificate within 1845 clock-hours. If at any point the financial aid office determines it is no longer mathematically possible to achieve graduation requirements by the end of the maximum timeframe, the student become ineligible for Title IV aid. Satisfactory academic progress is reviewed at the end of each term. Students who fail to meet the satisfactory academic progress standards will be placed on a one-time, one-term financial aid warning status. While on financial aid warning status, students will be eligible to receive federal financial aid. During the warning term, students must earn ALL credits attempted and maintain or achieve a 2.2 GPA on a 4.0 scale. If the student fails to meet these standards while in a warning status, they are placed on financial aid suspension and will be ineligible for their next disbursement of financial aid. If a student is placed on financial aid suspension, they will receive a notice from the Financial Aid Office. If there are mitigating circumstances that contributed to the student s inability to achieve SAP, a student may request reinstatement of their financial aid eligibility for the semester by submitting an appeal form to the Financial Aid Office within two weeks of notification. Examples of mitigating circumstances include personal or family illness or injury, death of a family member, emotional distress, natural disaster, legal proceedings, or other unforeseeable circumstances outside of the student s control. An appeal must address the specific reason you did not make satisfactory academic progress in the past, explanation as to how the circumstances that contributed to your being placed on suspension have been resolved, and steps taken to ensure your successful academic progress in the future. You must attach documentation to support your appeal (examples: medical claims/statements; copy of official death certificate/obituary; signed statement from an involved third party such as a counselor, priest, rabbi, minister; court documentation; etc.). 36
An appeal will only be granted if a student can demonstrate they will be able to meet SAP standards after the subsequent payment period. A student with a successful appeal will be placed on a one-time, one-term Financial Aid Probation. Financial Aid Probation is a status assigned to a student who fails to make satisfactory academic progress and who has appealed and has had their eligibility for aid reinstated for one term. At that point, the student must meet the SAP standards to maintain Title IV eligibility. If you are not making Satisfactory Academic Progress, in the absence of mitigating circumstances, you can regain eligibility for federal student aid only by making up your academic deficiencies through attendance without the benefit of financial aid. New York State SAP Students who receive any NYS financial awards are required to maintain good academic standing as defined by the regulations of the NYS Commissioner of Education in order to remain eligible for state financial aid. The regulations define a student in good academic standing as one who: pursues the program of study in which s/he is enrolled (pursuit of program), makes satisfactory academic progress toward the completion of his/her program's requirements (satisfactory academic progress) In addition, New York State Education Law requires grading with evaluation option, the student maintains a grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 or better after having received four full-time New York State financial aid payments or the equivalent in part time funds. Students who do not meet the requirements for pursuit of program, satisfactory academic progress and grade point average (GPA is waived for students in the narrative-only option) lose their eligibility for NYS financial aid. To remain eligible for NYS financial aid, a student must satisfy all three criteria. To receive NYS-sponsored grants or scholarships, the student much be in good academic standing. For NYS financial aid purposes, good academic standing consists of two components: 1. Pursuit of Program a requirement that a student receive a passing or failing grade (A-F letter grade) in a certain percentage of courses each trimester, depending on the number of state awards the student has received. 2. Satisfactory Academic Progress a requirement that students accumulate a specified number of credits and achieve a specified cumulative grade point average each trimester. 3. GPA- Students must maintain a 2.0 or better after receiving four full-time New York State financial aid payments. All NYS aid payments are counted regardless of when they were made or what institution the student attended. A student who is new to MSWSPN is assumed to meet the minimum GPA requirement. The table below provides the minimum criterion to maintain eligibility for New York State financial 37
eligibility after each payment. MSWSPN Before 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th Being Certified for This Payment A Student 0 2 6 15 25 35 45 55 60 Must Have Accrued at Least This Many Credits With At Least This Grade Point Average 0 1.3 1.5 1.8 1.8 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 1. *Completed means attended through the end of the semester, including grades A through F. A grade of W indicates the class was not completed. An INC will be treated as a W unless it is completed by the first day of attendance in the next semester for which the student is seeking federal student aid. 2. Students who lose good academic standing in a semester when they received a NYS grant or scholarship are not eligible for an award for the next semester. 3. Students who have lost good academic standing may restore this standing in one of the following ways: -make up past academic deficiencies by completing one or more semesters of study without receiving any NYS grants or scholarships; or -be readmitted to school after an absence of at least one year; or -transfer to another institution; or -be granted a one-time waiver of the standards. 4. Waiver information: NYS regulations permit students to receive a one-time waiver of the good academic standing requirements as an undergraduate if there are extenuating circumstances. The student may request evaluation of such extenuating circumstances to determine whether the standard may be waived and the student allowed to retain her/his aid. Examples of extenuating circumstances include personal or family illness or injury or death of a family member. Any student who wishes to request a waiver must apply in writing to Dean Victoria Record. You 38
must describe the condition that existed that prevented you from meeting the above standard, and discuss how this condition has changed to enable you to now progress satisfactorily toward completion of your program. Attach supporting documentation from your physician or other appropriate person. Repeat Coursework Federal regulations limit the number of times a student may repeat a course and receive federal financial aid for that course. A student may receive aid when repeating a course that was previously failed, regardless of the number of times the course was attempted and failed. Effective July 1, 2011, a student may receive aid to repeat a previously passed course. Students may repeat a passed course only once. Regardless of the outcome, courses are not eligible to be covered by financial aid after a 2nd attempt has been made for a course that has at any time previously earned a passing grade. The grade earned in a repeated course will be substituted for the original grade, if higher, in computing the grade point average. A repeated course along with the original attempt will be counted as attempted units. This rule applies whether or not the student received aid for earlier enrollments in the course. Repeat by transfer: If a student repeats by transfer a course that was previously taken at MSWSPN and the transfer grade is higher, then the original grade in the course will be excluded from the G.P.A. calculation. Changing Programs/Majors Generally all periods of the student s enrollment count when determining SAP within the school, even periods in which the student did not receive financial aid. However, for MSWSPN students who change programs/majors, the credits attempted and credits earned that do not count toward the new major will not be included in the SAP determination. This is limited to 1 time that a student can change majors and reset SAP. Billing Tuition & Fees The tuition and fees listed herein do not include the cost of books. When you register for a class, you are agreeing to pay for the class. If you cannot attend the class, you must drop the class within the timelines listed in the class schedule or the college will charge you for it. Tuition and fees must be paid in full prior to the start of each term either through a payment plan or accepted financial aid awards or a combination thereof. ESTIMATED COST OF THE PROGRAM FOR 2012-2013 39
ITEM COST MSWSP FLCC** N DUE APPLICATION FEE 35.00 at the time of application; nonrefundable; covers application processing PHYSICAL EXAMINATION AND IMMUNIZATIONS NURSING SHOES, STETHOSCOPE, WATCH 75.00 110.00 Student is responsible for this expense. Actual cost may vary. Student is responsible for this expense. Actual costs may vary. ACCEPTANCE FEE 100.00 due 2 weeks after acceptance; refundable only if physical is unsatisfactory TRIMESTER I (SEPT-DEC) TUITION 1600.00 due upon enrollment in September UNIFORMS, LAB SUPPLIES, COPYING FEE, ATI TESTING FEE, FLH TECHNOLOGY FEE, NSST User Fee, Malpractice Insurance Fee 900.00 Fees are non-refundable FLCC TUITION - Freshman English (3 credits) - Human Anatomy & Physiology I (4 credits) $ 432.00 576.00 TRIMESTER II (JAN-APR) - TUITION FLCC TUITION - Introduction to Psychology (3 credits) - Human Anatomy & Physiology II (4 credits) 1600.00 432.00 576.00 due in January, the first day of Trimester II TRIMESTER III (MAY-AUG) - TUITION GRADUATION FEES (school pin, diploma & diploma cover) KAPLAN REVIEW COURSE (Required) FLCC TUITION - Introduction to Literature (3 credits) - Developmental Psychology (3 credits) 1600.00 125.00 275.00 432.00 432.00 due in May, the first day of Trimester III MSWSPN ESTIMATED COST OF BOOKS FLCC ESTIMATED COST OF BOOKS 400.00 400.00 books are purchased at student expense; financial aid (if available) may be used to purchase required MSW textbooks TOTALS: 6630.00 3280.00 1 1 Transcripts are evaluated for transfer credit LICENSURE EXPENSES: These are direct 40
student expenses. Actual costs may vary. New York State Application Fee NCLEX Examination Fee 143.00 200.00 due with licensure application due with application NOTE: FLCC tuition per credit hour is $144.00. Out-of-state residents pay double tuition. Tuition and fees noted above subject to change without notice. Paying for Classes Methods of Payment Cash. Check or Money Order: Acceptable if made payable to Geneva General Hospital. Credit Card: We accept VISA, MasterCard or Discover charges only if the card submitted is in the name of the student. The name on the credit card and the person registered for the course(s) must be the same individual. The exception to this would be the student who has obtained written permission from the parent or guardian to use their card for that term. At the time the credit card is used, the school will need a dated/ signed note authorizing such use from the cardholder. The card, note and identification will be needed to complete any transaction. Charge cards may be used only for payment of account balances of $25.00 or more. With a Sponsoring Agent : If a sponsoring agency is paying some or all of your educational expenses, it is your responsibility to see that the agency has provided written authorization to the Student Services Coordinator before your bill is due. With Financial Aid: Assistance from financial aid is intended to help pay your educational expenses; however, if you do not receive the aid you expected, you still owe the college for charges you incur on your student account. If you receive financial aid, that aid will be used to pay all or part of your bill, depending on the amount of your financial aid awards. Once tuition and fees are paid, the college disburses any remaining financial aid funds to the student by check. Deferred Billing Terms Agreement When you register for the first time, the college sets up a college charge account to process your tuition and fees, other charges, credits, refunds, financial aid disbursements, and payments. You are responsible for paying your account in full, even if you are sponsored, expect to receive Financial Aid, think that a family member will pay, or never attend the class. Students will be charged tuition prior to the beginning of each term. You will be charged student fees at the beginning of the first term only with the exception of the graduation fee which is billed in your final term. If you fail to pay your account, the college may take any or all of the following actions: Require immediate payment in full Block enrollment for any future terms Decline to provide official transcripts Turn accounts over to a collections status 41
Textbooks and Supplies Students are responsible for purchasing required textbooks and supplies. The cost varies from term to term and from one program of study to another. Students may order books through the Student Services Coordinator or purchase them on their own through outside sources. Transportation and field trip expenses Students must pay for their own transportation, meals and other necessities while attending off-campus clinical experiences, field trips and outside conferences. Crediting Financial Aid Awards to a Student Account Upon disbursement, financial aid awards will be credited to the student s account until all tuition and fees are paid in full for that term. Any aid that exceeds that term s charges may be paid by check to the student to use toward your other education-related expenses. REFUND POLICY Withdrawal Before Classes Begin Tuition and fees are refunded in full if registration is cancelled prior to the first day of classes. The enrollment deposit is nonrefundable unless the student is unable to attend due to an unsatisfactory physical, per admission policy. Treatment of Title IV Federal Funds When a Student Withdraws A student wishing to withdraw must submit a written request identifying the reason for withdrawal. A meeting will then be scheduled with the Student s Advisor or Dean. Per federal regulations, a statutory schedule is used to determine the amount of Title IV funds a student has earned as of the date he or she ceases attendance. The amount of Title IV assistance earned is based on the amount of time the student spent in academic attendance. Up through the 60 percent point in each payment period or period of enrollment, a pro rata schedule is used to determine the amount of Title IV funds the student has earned at the time of withdrawal. After the 60 percent point in the payment period or period of enrollment, a student has earned 100 percent of the Title IV funds disbursed. In accordance with federal regulations, a school must return Title IV funds to the programs from which a student received aid during the payment period or period of enrollment as applicable, in the following order; up to the net amount disbursed from each source: Unsubsidized Stafford Loan Subsidized Stafford Loan Federal PLUS Loan Federal Pell Grant Academic Competitiveness Grant Other assistance under this Title for which a return of funds is required Other federal, state, private, or institutional sources of aid The student 42
Treatment of NYS Financial Aid When a Student Withdraws Students with TAP eligibility who withdraw before the census date (10 week days after the start of classes) will be de-certified with tuition liability. NYS HESC will calculate a student s TAP eligibility, if any, and notify both the student and school. Tuition Recalculation When a Student Withdraws Students who withdraw or are dismissed from the program are subject to the following tuition refund polices: MSWSPN Tuition Refund Percentage Period of Attendance 75% 1 week day through 3 week days after the start of the semester 50% 4 week days through 6 week days after the start of the semester 25% 7 week day through 9 week days after the start of the semester 0% withdrawal on or after 10 week days after the start of the semester All fees are non-refundable. (The acceptance fee may be refunded if the student is unable to attend due to an unsatisfactory physical, per admission policy.) Refund Checks The Student Services Coordinator will automatically process a refund check whenever there is a credit balance on the student s account unless the students Title IV authorization indicates otherwise. Payments, including financial aid, are applied to the student s account until current term charges are paid in full. Overpayments will be refunded to the student by check. Provided all required paperwork is complete, federal financial aid awards are disbursed to the student s account on the first day of each term. Students with Title IV credit balances will be issued refund checks within 7 days of the start of classes to assist them in obtaining books and supplies and covering additional educational related expenses. Subsequent disbursements that create a credit on the students account will be refunded to the student within 14 days of disbursement. Estimated Cost of Attendance The cost of attendance is the estimated cost of attending the program for a full academic year, including estimated amounts for tuition and fees, books and supplies, housing, transportation, plus a modest allowance for personal/miscellaneous expenses. Tuition and fees are direct expenses billed by the Student Servicer Coordinator. All other expenses are indirect expenses that they student may or may not incur during the course of their enrollment at MSWSPN/. The following are the estimated expenses only. An additional allowance for dependent care may be added on a case-by-case basis. Your actual expenses may be more or less depending on your personal situation and liberal arts 43
course load. Refer to the tuition and fees insert in this handbook for more information on costs of liberal arts and science coursework. MSWSPN Average Annual Costs Living With Living Without Parents Parents Tuition/Fees $7,207.00 $7,207.00 Books/Supplies $960.00 $960.00 Transportation $3,124.00 $3,124.00 Living Expenses $7,475.00 $11,165.00 Personal/Misc Expenses $1,320.00 $1,815.00 $20,086.00 $24,271.00 Disclosures College Loan Code of Conduct 1. Prohibition on Revenue Sharing Arrangements with Lenders No officer or employee of Geneva General Hospital at the Marion S. Whelan School of Practical Nursing (hereinafter the College ) who has responsibilities for student lending will enter into any revenue sharing agreement with any lender. For purposes of definition, revenue sharing arrangement means an agreement between the College and a lender under which: - a lender provides or issues a loan that is made, insured, or guaranteed under Title IV to students attending the College or to the families of students attending the College; and - the College recommends the lender or the loan products of the lender and in exchange, the lender pays a fee or provides other material benefits, including revenue or profit sharing, to the College, an officer or employee of the College. 2. Prohibition on Gifts from Lenders, Guaranty Agencies and Loan Servicers No officer or employee of the College who has responsibilities with respect to education loans shall solicit or accept any gift from a lender, guarantor, or servicer of education loans. Gift means any gratuity, favor, discount, entertainment, hospitality, loan, or other item having a monetary value of more than a de minimus amount. The term includes a gift of services, transportation, lodging, or meals, whether provided in kind, by purchase of a ticket, payment in advance, or reimbursement after the expense has been incurred. The term gift does not include : (1) a brochure, workshop, or training using standard materials relating to a loan, default aversion, or financial literacy, such as a brochure, workshop or training; (2) food, training, or informational material provided as part of a training session designed to improve the service of a lender, guarantor, or servicer if the training contributes to the professional development of the College s officer, employee or agent; (3) favorable terms and benefits on an education loan provided to a student employed by the College if those terms and benefits are comparable to those provided to all students at the College ; (4) entrance and exit counseling as long as the College s staff are in control of the counseling and the counseling does not promote the services of a specific lender; (5) philanthropic contributions from a lender, guarantor, or servicer that are unrelated to education loans or any 44
contribution that is not made in exchange for advantage related to education loans, and; (6) State education grants, scholarships, or financial aid funds administered by or on behalf of a State. For purposes of this paragraph, a gift to a family member of an officer, employee, or any other individual based on that individual s relationship with the officer or employee shall be considered a gift to the officer, or employee if - the gift is given with the knowledge and acquiescence of the officer or employee and - The officer or employee has reason to believe the gift was given because of the official position of the officer or employee. 3. Consulting Arrangements with Lenders Prohibited No officer or employee of the College s financial aid office or individual who otherwise has responsibilities with respect to education loans shall not accept from any lender or affiliate of any lender any fee, payment, or other financial benefit (including the opportunity to purchase stock) as compensation for any type of consulting arrangement or other contract to provide services to a lender or on behalf of a lender relating to educational loans. 4. Prohibition Against Steering Student Borrowers to Particular Lenders The College will not: - for any first-time borrower, assign, through award packaging or other methods, the borrower s loan to a particular lender; or - refuse to certify, or delay certification of, any loan based on the borrower s selection of ap particular lender or guaranty agency 5. Prohibition of Offers of Funds for Private Loans The College shall not request or accept from any lender any offer of funds to be used for private education loans, including funds for an opportunity pool loan to students in exchange for the College providing concessions or promises to the lender for - a specified number of Title IV loans made, insured, or guaranteed - a specified loan volume of such loans or - a preferred lender arrangement for such loans An opportunity pool loan is defined as a private education loan made by a lender to a student (or the student s family) that involves a payment by the College to the lender for extending credit to the student. 6. Ban on Staffing Assistance The College shall not request or accept from any lender any assistance with call center staffing or financial aid office staffing. Permitted assistance will include: - professional development training for financial aid administration - providing educational counseling materials, financial literacy materials, or debt management materials to borrowers, provided that such materials disclose to borrowers the identification of any lender that assisted in preparing or providing such materials. - Staffing services on a short term, non-recurring basis during emergencies and disasters. 7. Educational Lender Advisory Board Compensation & Reimbursement Any College employee who is employed in the financial aid office of the College, or who has responsibilities with respect to education loans or other student financial aid of the College, and who 45
serves on an advisory board, commission, or group established by a lender, guarantor, or group of lenders or guarantors, shall be prohibited from receiving anything of value from the lender, guarantor, or group of lenders or guarantors, except that the employee may be reimbursed for reasonable expenses incurred in serving on such advisory board, commission, or group. The College will report any reasonable expenses paid for employee participation on such Advisory Boards to the Department of Education as required. The Schools of Nursing at Geneva General are members of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA) and subscribes to that organization s Statement of Ethical Principles and Code of Conduct. The Schools of Nursing at Geneva General Hospital are also a member of the New York State Financial Aid Administrators Association (NYSFAAA). The Schools of Nursing at Geneva General Hospital have also adopted the New York State Attorney General s College Code of Conduct and adheres to the standards outlined in that document. Student Privacy Student Rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. These rights include: 1. The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days of the day Mason receives a request for access. A student should submit to the registrar, dean, head of the academic department, or other appropriate official, a written request that identifies the record(s) the student wishes to inspect. The Mason official will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the Mason official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed. 2. The right to request amendment of the student's education records that the student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student's privacy rights under FERPA. A student who wishes to ask for an amendment of a record should write the Mason official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record the student wants changed, and specify why it should be changed. If the official decides not to amend the record as requested, the official will notify the student in writing of the decision and the student's right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing. 3. The right to provide written consent before the university discloses personally identifiable information from the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. Mason discloses education records without a student's prior written consent under the FERPA exception for disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by Mason in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom Mason has contracted as its agent to provide a service instead of using Mason employees or officials (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. 46
A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibilities for the university. 4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by Mason to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is: Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20202-5901 Amendments to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) In response to the terrorist attacks on the United States that took place on September 11, 2001, Congress has made changes to the FERPA. Section 507 of the USA PATRIOT ACT amended FERPA, which now contains 16 exceptions to the general rules. Ex Parte Orders The recent amendment to FERPA permits educational agencies and institutions to disclose - without consent or knowledge of the student or parent - personally identifiable information from the student s education record to the Attorney General of the United States or his designee in response to ex parte order in connection with the investigation or prosecution of terrorism crimes specified in sections 2332b(g) (5) (B) and 2331 of title 18, U.S. Code. An ex parte order is an order issued by a court of competent jurisdiction without notice to an adverse party. Lawfully Issued Subpoenas and Court Orders FERPA permits educational agencies and institutions to disclose, without consent, information from a student s education records in order to comply with a lawfully issued subpoena or court order in three contexts. These three contexts are: 1. Grand Jury Subpoenas - Educational agencies and institutions may disclose education records to the entity or persons designated in a Federal Grand Jury subpoena. 2. Law Enforcement Subpoenas - Educational agencies and institutions may disclose education records to the entity or persons designated in any other subpoena issued for a law enforcement purpose. 3. Ex parte orders - Educational agencies and institutions may disclose, without consent or knowledge of the student or parent, personally identifiable information to the Attorney General of the United States or his designee in response to an ex parte order in connection with the investigation of a crime of terrorism. An ex parte order is an order issued by a court without notice to the adverse party. Health or Safety Emergency The health or safety exception permits educational agencies and institutions to disclose personally identifiable information from a student s educational record without the written consent of the student in the case of an immediate threat to the health or safety of students or other individuals. Typically, law enforcement officials, public health officials, and trained medical personnel are the types of parties to whom information may be disclosed under this FERPA condition. 47
The Department of Education consistently has limited the health and safety exception to a specific situation that presents imminent danger or to a situation that requires the immediate need for information from education records in order to avert or diffuse serious threats to the safety and health of a student or other individuals. Any release must be narrowly tailored considering the immediacy, magnitude, and specificity of information concerning the emergency. Moreover, this exception is temporarily limited to the period of the emergency and generally will not allow for a blanket release of personally identifiable information from a student s education records. Disclosures to the Department of Homeland Security formerly Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) An educational institution may release personally identifiable information of a student who has signed a Form I-20 and any student attending on an M-1 or J-1 visa to the INS. STUDENT ASSOCIATION BYLAWS Article I - Definition Each one of the Nursing Programs shall have a Student Association. Article II - Authorization The Student Association shall be authorized by the Dean s faculty of the Nursing Programs and shall carry out the activities specified in these bylaws, subject to the approval of the Dean and faculty. Article III - Purpose Section1. Provide an opportunity for the nursing student to participate as a democratic citizen individually and as a member of a group. Section 2. Section 3. Section 4. Section 5. Section 6. Encourage the student nurse to promote and maintain high educational and professional standards. Promote professional and social unity among nursing students within the school. Provide an opportunity for exchange of ideas and self expression. Encourage an interest in nursing organizations, Alumni Association, and NYSNA, NFLPN, etc. Provide a channel of communication between the faculty and the student body. Article IV - Membership Section 1. Students enrolled in the Finger Lakes Health College of Nursing or the Marion S. Whelan School of Practical Nursing of Geneva General Hospital shall be members of this Association. Section 2. Student membership shall extend throughout the length of the program. 48
Article V - Officers and Their Duties Section 1. The officers of this Association shall consist of a President, Vice- President/Corresponding Secretary, Secretary, and Treasurer. Section 2. Section 3. Eligible candidates for this office shall demonstrate: a) leadership qualities b) interest in school activities c) initiative and dependability d) effective communication skills with fellow students e) satisfactory scholastic standing Duties of Officers: A. The President shall: 1. preside at the meetings of this Association 2. submit an agenda to the faculty Class Advisor prior to each class meeting 3. appoint special committees 4. serve as ex-officio member of all committees 5. attend Educational Advisory Committee meetings in June and October of each year 6. deliver the graduation speech B. The Vice-President/Corresponding Secretary shall: 1. assume the duties of the President should the President be unable to fulfill the duties of the office 2. initiate and respond to any correspondence as voted upon by the student body 3. prepare correspondence from the class to appropriate individuals and submit to the school secretary for mailing; i.e., thank you notes to guest speaker C. The Secretary shall: 1. record in writing using a standard format, the minutes of all meetings of this Association 2. submit minutes of all meetings to the school secretary for typing 3. file as a permanent record all papers and documents submitted to the class secretary D. The Treasurer shall: 1. maintain accurate records of acquisitions and disbursements of Association funds 2. make monetary disbursements not to exceed $5.00 if approved by membership 3. obtain approval of the Student Association for monetary disbursements exceeding $5.00 Section 4. All officers shall deliver to the Dean of the school all records, papers, or other properties belonging to this Association at the final meeting. 49
Article VI - Elections Section 1. The officers of this Association shall be elected after the first six weeks of the second semester/trimester. Section 2. Section 3. Section 4. Section 5. All elections shall be by ballot. A majority vote of all members present shall elect the officers. In the event of a tie, a revote shall be taken. The Class Advisor shall provide oversight at each meeting. A faculty member shall preside at the initial meeting as President pro-tem. Faculty will appoint two tellers who will supervise the voting and count the ballots. Relinquishment of duties will occur as soon as the President has been elected. Article VII - Meetings Section 1. Meetings of this Association shall be called by the President upon request of a majority of the members or by the Dean when deemed necessary. Section 2. Section 3. Section 4. Notices of all meetings shall be posted, setting forth the place, date and time at least 24 hours in advance. Attendance at all meetings is required of all members. Illness shall be the only acceptable excuse for being absent. Any other excused absences must be cleared through the Class Advisor. A quorum will be the majority of the members of the class. Article VIII Order of Business 1) call to order by the President 2) reading of the previous minutes by the Secretary 3) approval and/or correction of the minutes 4) financial report by the Treasurer 5) report of Standing Committees 6) report of Special Committees 7) exchange of communications between class members 8) unfinished business 9) new business 10) adjournment of meeting by the President Article IX - Standing Committees Section 1. Standing Committees shall be composed of not less than two or more than six members and shall assume such duties as assigned by the President and specified in the bylaws. Section 2. The Standing Committees shall report to the Student Association at each meeting. 50
Section 3. Section 4. There shall be the following Standing Committees: a) Committee on Bylaws/Revisions b) Committee on Social Affairs/Class Projects c) Committee on Student Affairs/Grievance, Appeal Committee Committee on Bylaws/Revisions a) Chairperson shall be elected by the student body at the initial meeting b) The Committee shall consist of 2-6 volunteers from the class. c) The Committee shall: 1) receive all proposed amendments to these bylaws 2) present all proposed amendments to the voting body for action 3) submit the bylaws and proposed amendments to the director ofthe school for faculty review and approval 4) review the bylaws with the class before graduation and submit any proposed amendments to the director for faculty review and approval Section 5. Committee on Social Affairs/Class Projects a) Chairperson shall be elected by the student body at the initial meeting b) The Committee shall consist of 2-6 volunteers from the class c) The Committee shall plan and arrange all social functions Section 6. Committee on Student Affairs/Grievance, Appeal Committee a) Chairperson shall be elected by the student body at the initial meeting b) The Committee shall consist of 2-6 volunteers c) Special meetings of this Committee shall be to: 1) formulate or propose revision of any rules, regulations or policies pertaining to the Student Association 2) contribute to revisions in the School Brochure 3) bring to the attention of the director and faculty any problems or concerns of the student body by sending a representative to faculty meetings as needed Article X - Fiscal The fiscal year of this Association shall be the school year from September to September. Article XI - Class Dues If dues are collected, there will be no refund of dues upon voluntary withdrawal from the Nursing Programs. 51