THE STUDENT HANDBOOK FOR UNDERGRADUATE AND GRADUATE PROGRAMS IN NURSING

THE STUDENT HANDBOOK FOR UNDERGRADUATE AND GRADUATE PROGRAMS IN NURSING 2015-2016 College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 1

I have reviewed the Student Handbook for the University of Southern Mississippi and the Student Handbook for Graduate and Undergraduate Programs in the College of Nursing. I have read and understand the policies and procedures required of Nursing Students regarding admission to the College of Nursing, health and professionals policies and required updates, impaired nursing student policy, uniform/dress code, and progression. The University of Southern Mississippi and the College of Nursing reserves the rights to amend, modify, delete, or add to any and all provisions, policies, and information contained in these handbooks at any time. I understand that I, the nursing student, am responsible for updating this handbook when revisions are issued. Print Name Signature Date College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 2

TABLE OF CONTENTS CHAPTER I: PHILOSOPHY, CURRICULUM FRAMEWORK, AND ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE Vision, Mission, Philosophy 10 Organizing Curriculum Framework 10 Nursing Core Competencies 11 Program Objectives Baccalaureate Program Objectives 16 RN-BSN Program Objectives 17 Master s Program Objectives 19 DNP Program Objectives 20 PhD Program Objectives 21 Organizational Structure - Leadership 22 Organizational Chart Department and Programs 23 College Committees 24 CHAPTER II: ACADEMIC INFORMATION Advisement on Programs of Study 25 Admission 25 Programs of Study Program of Study-BSN 26 Program of Study-BSN Concurrent Academic Progression in Nursing Pathway (CAPINP) 27 Program of Study-BSN Veterans Pathway 28 College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 3

Program of Study-RN-BSN 30 Program of Study-RN-MSN 31 Program of Study-MSN Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner 32 Family Nurse Practitioner 33 Program of Study-DNP Post-MSN DNP 34 BSN-DNP Nurse Anesthesia Program 35 BSN-DNP Leadership 37 Program of Study-PhD BSN-PhD 38 PhD 39 Undergraduate Progression Policies Progression to Non-Clinical Courses in BSN Program (CON1007) 40 Progression of RN-BSN after Break in Attendance (CON1009) 41 Kaplan Integrated Test Remediation Program (CON1011) 42 Exit Kaplan Predictor Progression and Remediation (CON1013) 47 Dosage and Calculation Exam Policy for BSN Students (CON1010) 51 Nursing Course Credits from Military Transcripts/Experience (CON1002) 53 Challenge Courses (CON1004) 55 Add/Drop/Withdrawal (CON1001) 56 College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 4

Readmission (CON1003) 57 Progression (CON1005) 58 Incomplete Grades (CON1015) 60 Academic Honesty and Plagiarism (CON1019) 61 Evaluation of Courses and Faculty by Students (CON1021) 62 Grade Posting (CON1023) 63 Dismissal for Unprofessional Conduct (CON1025) 64 Classroom Responsibilities of Faculty and Students (CON1027) 66 Safe Clinical Practice (CON1029) 67 Non-Grade Related Grievance (CON1031) 69 Grade Review (CON1033) 70 Undergraduate Grading Scale (CON1035) 71 Graduate Grading Scale (CON1037) 72 Grade for Theory and Clinical Courses (CON1039) 73 Grade Rounding (CON1043) 74 Graduation (CON1045) 75 CHAPTER III: COURSE INFORMATION Attendance and Clinical Continuation in the Program Undergraduate (CON1047) 76 Clinical Continuation Form 77 Alcohol Screening Policy (CON1051) 78 Impaired Nursing Student (CON1059) 79 College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 5

Routine and Controlled Substances Policy (CON1053) 82 CON Criminal Background Check Undergraduate (CON1055) 84 CON Criminal Background Check Graduate (CON1057) 86 Health and Professional Information (CON1061) 88 History & Physical Examination Form 90 Immunization and TB Test Results Form 91 Positive TB Follow-Up Form 92 Varicella Vaccine Upon Admission (CON1063) 93 Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis Vaccine (CON1065) 94 Influenza Vaccine (CON1067) 95 Influenza Vaccination Waiver Form 96 Confidentiality Agreement (CON1069) 97 Confidentiality Agreement Form 98 Technical Standards Statement (CON1071) 99 Technical Standards Statement Form 100 Privacy Rule and HIPAA Requirements (CON1073) 103 Clinical Simulation Lab Rules (CON1075) 109 Property Loan Receipts in Simulation Lab (CON1077) 111 Checking Out Theses and Dissertations from the LRC (CON1079) 112 College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 6

CHAPTER IV: GENERAL POLICIES AND PROCESSES University Policies Address Change 113 Books 113 Career Services 113 Dead Week 113 Disability Accommodation 113 Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) 114 Fees 114 Financial Aid (Including Scholarships) 114 Firearms and Weapons 115 Organizations General 115 Parking 115 Sexual Harassment 115 Smoking 116 Southern Miss Reporting Hotline 116 Student Life 116 College of Nursing Absences 116 Awards 117 College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 7

Bulletin Boards 122 Communication With Faculty 122 Transportation 122 College of Nursing Policies Personal Electronic Use in the Classroom (CON1087) 123 Computer Requirements (CON1089) 125 Incident Report (CON1093) 126 Incident Report Form 127 Social Media Policy (CON1097) 128 Standard Precautions (CON1099) 130 Uniform BSN Uniform Dress Code (CON1101) 131 Latin Designation (CON1103) 134 Student Organizations (CON1105) 135 Organizations 137 CHAPTER V: DEPARTMENT/PROGRAM POLICIES, GUIDELINES, AND HANDBOOKS DNP Program Policies DNP Doctoral Capstone (CON1109) 141 Capstone Project Chair and Committee Qualifications (CON1111) 143 Doctoral Capstone Project Proposal (CON1113) 144 Clinical Practice Hours for DNP Program (CON1115) 147 Validation of Previous Clinical Hours for the DNP Program (CON1117) 148 PhD Program Policies College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 8

Doctoral Advisement (CON1119) 149 Doctoral Mentoring Plan (CON1121) 150 PhD Mentoring Plan Form 151 Comprehensive Exam (CON1123) 153 Dissertation Committee - PhD (CON1125) 155 Dissertation Process - PhD (CON1127) 156 College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 9

CHAPTER 1: PHILOSOPHY, CURRICULUM FRAMEWORK, AND ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE A. VISION, MISSION AND PHILOSOPHY Vision Southern Miss College of Nursing will excel in baccalaureate, masters, and doctoral education; innovative clinical practice; and creative use of technology to advance nursing practice, education and scholarship. Mission The mission of Southern Miss College of Nursing is to enhance the health and wellbeing of the people of the state of Mississippi by preparing graduates at the baccalaureate, masters, and doctoral level of education who are prepared to advance the profession of nursing through education, scholarship, and service. Philosophy The faculty of the College of Nursing at The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) believes nurses are prepared through undergraduate and graduate nursing education programs to serve the public in generalist and advanced professional nursing roles in healthcare. The faculty defines nursing as a human caring science, art, and practice discipline. We are committed to nursing scholarship and inquiry using paradigms from the natural, social and human sciences, as well as the humanities. We believe that nursing education requires attention to values and development of life-long learning. We further believe in the development of leadership skills at each level of practice. Additionally, we are committed to promoting access to high quality evidenced based care for all people and to meeting the healthcare needs of diverse populations. We believe that the university nursing community is a community of scholars. We value an expanded definition of nursing scholarship to include practice of master teachers and educators, researchers, and expert advanced practice nurses. Organizing Curriculum Framework The curriculum framework serves to structure knowledge in a way that is meaningful. Due to the unique educational needs of each level of students at The University of Southern Mississippi College of Nursing (Baccalaureate, Masters, Doctor of Nursing Practice, and Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing), a basic circular College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 10

framework was developed for each level in which competencies from leading credentialing and practice organizations are organized within radiating quadrants. The Baccalaureate framework includes competencies for the Generalist Practice Role (The Massachusetts Nurse of the Future Core Competency Model, The American Association of Colleges of Nursing [AACN] Essentials of Baccalaureate Education for Professional Nursing Practice, Quality and Safety Education for Nurses, and Institutes of Medicine). The Master s framework includes competencies for the Advanced Practice Role (AACN Essentials of Master s Education for Advanced Practice Nursing, and advanced practice standards and competencies organizations specific to Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist emphasis areas). The Doctor of Nursing Practice s (DNP) framework includes competencies for the DNP Practice Role (The AACN Essentials of Doctor of Nursing Practice, and credentialing organizations specific to DNP specialty areas. The Doctor of Philosophy s (Ph.D.) framework includes competencies from The AACN Essentials of Doctoral Education. Education is a dynamic process that responds to internal and external environmental influences. This curriculum framework provides a flexible structure that accommodates change and recognizes continued growth within the profession and the members it encompasses. Reflecting the synergism of its parts, the goal of the curriculum framework and the curriculum it represents is to prepare nurses who are able to promote optimal health and maximize human potential through caring. The curriculum framework depicts the progression of knowledge acquisition. The innermost circle for each level represents the liberal arts education & scientific foundation that is the cornerstone upon which nursing knowledge is built. The middle circle for each level represents core nursing knowledge, attitudes and skills and is divided into radiating quadrants which represent competencies from applicable credentialing and practice organizations. The lines demarcating the quadrants are broken, indicating movement and shifts in emphasis between the quadrants. This movement symbolizes the varying emphases that are placed on the different quadrants at different points in the program. At graduation, there should be a balance among the quadrants connoting our belief in the equal importance of all aspects of professional nursing education. The outer circle for each level represents the outcomes of the curriculum expressed as roles to be assumed by our graduates within the external practice environments. Deliberately unbounded, this circle symbolizes the potential for growth in these areas and signifies our commitment to the principle of lifelong learning. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 11

College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 12

College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 13

College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 14

College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 15

OBJECTIVES OF PROGRAMS BACCALAUREATE PROGRAM OBJECTIVES/COMPETENCIES Patient-Centered Care 1. Provides nursing care to meet the holistic needs of the patient (socioeconomic, cultural, ethic, and spiritual values) 2. Demonstrates caring behavior toward patients, significant others, and groups of people receiving care Professionalism 1. Reflects on one s own beliefs and values as they relate to professional practice 2. Follows dress code 3. Respects faculty, staff, peers and patients 4. Adheres to regulatory standards and policies that impact provision of nursing care 5. Protects patient privacy and confidentiality of patient records and other privileged communications 6. Arrives on time. Informs instructor prior to clinical of an absence 7. Readily admits mistakes and oversights; and makes corrective actions Actively participates in clinical learning activities Clinical Judgment 1. Assess and interprets subjective and objective data, including vital signs, laboratory tests and other patient findings 2. Recognizes deviations from client patterns using evidence-based knowledge and reports this to the appropriate person(s) 3. Demonstrates the ability to prioritize 4. Evaluates client responses to interventions and revises plan of care appropriately 5. Completes physical assessment and reports abnormal findings to the appropriate person(s) Quality and Safety 1. Uses patient identifiers 2. Utilizes standard practices related to infection control 3. Safely implements evidence-based practices to reduce patient risk (including but not limited to falls and skin integrity) 4. Administers medications safely according to professional standards/regulations 5. Performs procedures/ interventions/treatments correctly within a reasonable time frame 6. Recognizes and reports unsafe healthcare practices to the appropriate person(s) 7. Seeks assistance as needed to provide safe quality care 8. Actively seeks information about quality initiatives/core measures College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 16

Evidence Based Practice 1. Prepares and submits an individualized plan of care/ clinical assignment based on patient values, clinical expertise and evidence 2. Performs evidenced based interventions 3. Evaluates evidenced based interventions and outcome. Communication/Informatics/Technology 1. Uses clear, concise and effective communication including written, electronic and verbal methods 2. Documents interventions and nursing outcomes according to professional standards 3. Accesses appropriate and credible information effectively and efficiently 4. Manages technology/equipment safely in assessing and monitoring patient Teamwork and Collaboration 1. Acts with Integrity. Considers and respects differing viewpoints. 2. Collaborates with different professional roles and contributes in the provision of providing patient care 3. Assists other students and staff as needed 4. Uses collegial communication Leadership 1. Participates in the change process to improve patient care and satisfaction (patient/staff) in the work environment. 2. Assigns, directs and supervises ancillary personnel and support staff in carrying our particular roles/functions aimed at achieving quality patient care (Senior level) 3. Motivates and organizes the group to accomplish tasks/projects 4. Exhibits positive influence among peer group College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 17

RN-BSN PROGRAM OBJECTIVES/COMPETENCIES Upon completion of the program, the graduate will be able to demonstrate skills as: 1. A theory and research-based provider of health care who assumes the multiple role dimensions required of structured and semi-structured health care settings. 2. A professional role model who promotes a positive public image of nursing. 3. A knowledgeable coordinator of community resources who facilitates individuals, families, and communities access to resources necessary to meet health care needs. 4. An individual who is able to employ effective management techniques to accomplish a mission while promoting excellence in others. 5. An advocate who guides individuals, families & groups through a complex healthcare system and is an effective spokesperson for the nursing profession. 6. A critical thinker who demonstrates intellectual curiosity, rational inquiry, problem-solving skills, and creativity in framing problems. 7. A politically astute individual who participates in the profession and the practice of nursing with a global perspective. 8. A responsible manager who efficiently and effectively balances human, financial, and material resources to achieve quality health care outcomes. 9. A culturally competent person who provides holistic nursing care to a variety of individuals, families, and groups. 10. A nurse who demonstrates knowledge of the process and uses of research to develop the scientific basis of nursing practice. 11. An individual who practices within an ethical and legal framework for the nursing profession. 12. A nurse who possesses the ability to access, use, and communicate via information technology as well as through traditional written and verbal methods. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 18

MASTER S PROGRAM The Master s curriculum reflects the purposes, objectives, and conceptual framework of the College of Nursing. The program presupposes a basic professional preparation in nursing then builds, as well as expands, on that generalist preparation. The program takes into account that students bring their experiences as practicing nurses and have goals, which are complementary to those of the program. Graduate education is characterized by commitment to the advancement of nursing theory, practice, and research. Mastery of this advanced knowledge is essential for the empowered decision-making, problem solving, and independent functioning of professional nurses. The organizing framework for the graduate program incorporates theory development, scientific inquiry, role theory, and the ethical-legal dimensions of practice. Emphasis is placed on the use of pertinent nursing and non-nursing theories to facilitate an integrated approach to practice. The program is specifically designed to: 1. Stimulate the testing of ideas from nursing and related disciplines to resolve nursing problems and to improve nursing practice. 2. Foster the ability of the individual to conduct and use research and promote a depth of knowledge in a selected area. 3. Enable the student to develop a regional, national, and global perspective related to health care issues. 4. Enhance the student s ability to solve nursing problems skillfully and knowledgeably as the basis for intellectual leadership in nursing. 5. Prepare the student to practice in emerging and expanding roles in nursing. MASTER S PROGRAM OBJECTIVES Upon completion of the Master s program, the student should be able to: 1. Synthesize theories from the humanities, and the natural, behavioral, and other applied sciences, which support advanced practice. 2. Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of nursing science as the basis for advanced practice. 3. Demonstrate beginning competence in designing and conducting nursing research. 4. Exhibit leadership behaviors in the systematic improvement of health care and the delivery of nursing service through the initiation of planned change. 5. Actively engage in collaborative relationships with other heathcare professionals, providers, and consumers to improve health care. 6. Demonstrate understanding of ethical/legal behavior in practice. 7. Acquire a foundation for doctoral study. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 19

DOCTORAL PROGRAMS DOCTOR OF NURSING PRACTICE (DNP) The purpose of the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree in nursing is to prepare advance practice nurses at the highest professional level of nursing practice. Doctoral level advanced practice nurses translate and apply critical knowledge for improving health care to diverse populations. Students are required to meet specified core competencies, as defined by AACN s Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice, and meet admission requirements to be considered for admission to the DNP program. DNP- PROGRAM OBJECTIVES DNP Educational Objectives and Program Outcomes Goal 1 To assure public access to high quality, outcome-oriented health services delivered by doctoral prepared advanced practice nurses. Program Outcomes for Goal 1: a. Develop and manage innovative health services to improve access, quality and health outcomes. b. Enhance the culture of safety in health systems through the application of information technologies and evidence-based practice. Goal 2 To eliminate health disparities among local, regional, national, and global populations by developing doctoral prepared advanced practice nurses who have transformational leadership skills. Program Outcomes for Goal 2: a. Translate practice inquiry to improve health services delivery for diverse populations. b. Provide leadership for multidisciplinary teams through analysis of critical indicators and/or health systems to improve health care. c. Design culturally competent health services for vulnerable populations. Goal 3 To transform health systems through scholarly approaches to practice inquiry aimed at improving health outcomes. Program Outcomes for Goal 3: a. Translate theoretical knowledge into practice to improve health outcomes. b. Examine, implement, and evaluate the modification of evidenced based health services, health systems, and health policies. c. Develop and test new models of care that address the complex health needs of individuals, families, and rural populations. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 20

DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY DEGREE (PhD) The Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing degree at The University of Southern Mississippi prepares scholars with a leadership focus to contribute to the science, practice, and profession of nursing through systematic research inquiry and theory development. Our program is designed to prepare scholars for research, academic careers, and leadership positions in universities or health related organizations. We embrace a student-centered learning approach with flexible learning strategies and the use of technology to facilitate meaningful scholarly interactions. Students work closely with faculty mentors who guide and oversee their educational program from admission through completion of degree requirements. PHD PROGRAM OBJECTIVES Upon completion of the PhD Program, students will be able to: 1. Evaluate, critique, and synthesize the literature of nursing and related fields to identify issues and critical gaps in scientific nursing knowledge. 2. Apply conceptual models and theories from nursing or related disciplines to design and implement nursing studies. 3. Produce significant original contributions to scientific nursing knowledge through the independent or interdisciplinary conduct of basic research. 4. Develop and assume leadership roles that facilitate discovery, application, and integration of new nursing knowledge. 5. Appraise and apply leadership frameworks and philosophies applicable to micro- and macro-level healthcare delivery systems as well as academic organizations. 6. Relate principles of social justice and ethics to research and leadership College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 21

The University of Southern Mississippi College of Nursing Organizational Structure Leadership Dean College of Nursing Administrative Assistant Assistant Dean for Research & Evaluation Associate Dean Associate Dean Gulf Park Assistant to Dean for Operations Administrative Assistant Administrative Assistant Assistant to the Dean for Advisement & Academic Records Support Staff Student Services Department Chair Department of Collaborative Nursing Care Admin Assistant Department Chair Department of Advanced Practice Admin Assistant Department Chair Department of Systems Leadership & Health Outcomes Admin Assistant BSN Program Director Family Nurse Practitioner Program Director PhD Program Director Transitional Programs Director Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program Director Doctor of Nursing Practice Program Director Leadership in Nursing BSN-DNP Program Director RN-BSN Program Director Nurse Anesthetist Program Director Administrative- Academic Coordinator Assistant College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 22

The University of Southern Mississippi College of Nursing Organizational Chart Departments and Programs Department Chair Department of Collaborative Nursing Care Department Chair Department of Advanced Practice Department Chair Department of Systems Leadership & Health Outcomes BSN Program Family Nurse Practitioner Program PhD Program RN-BSN Program Transitional Programs Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program Nurse Anesthetist Program DNP Program Leadership in Nursing BSN-DNP Faculty College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 23

The University of Southern Mississippi College of Nursing Organizational Chart College Committees (Revised: August 2014) College Committees College Advisory Committee Policy Committee Curriculum Committee Program Evaluation Committee College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 24

CHAPTER II ACADEMIC INFORMATION The following information is intended as a guide for students who declare a graduate or undergraduate nursing major on the Gulf Park or Hattiesburg campus. The information provided here can also be reviewed in the Graduate Bulletin and Undergraduate Bulletin. The University of Southern Mississippi, College of Nursing Student Handbook for Undergraduate and Graduate Programs in Nursing is available online (www.usm.edu/nursing) and students should consult the online handbook for each academic year for updates. The Graduate Bulletin, Undergraduate Bulletin and USM CON Student Handbook are available on the University website (www.usm.edu ) ADVISEMENT ON PROGRAMS OF STUDY ADMISSION All students must comply with the General Academic Regulations of the University, which are contained in the current Student Handbook, Graduate Bulletin and Undergraduate Bulletin. Academic and other student policies are in the Student Handbook available on the university website www.usm.edu. In addition to the University s academic regulations, students wishing to be admitted to the CON are required to meet College of Nursing admission and progression requirements. Undergraduate: For policies and procedures regarding admission to the BSN and RN-BSN programs, consult the College of Nursing section of the Undergraduate Bulletin Graduate: For policies and procedures regarding admission to the MSN, PhD, and DNP programs, consult the College of Nursing section of the Graduate Bulletin Undergraduate Students All students in the College of Nursing are assigned an adviser. It is the responsibility of each student to consult his/her adviser prior to registration each semester and if problems arise. Advisement is by appointment. Graduate Students Graduate students have a designated adviser in their program. This adviser will guide the student from initial contact through graduation. Guidance includes but is not limited to developing and updating the program of studies and application for graduation. It is the responsibility of each student to consult his/her adviser if problems arise. Advisement is by appointment. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 25

PROGRAMS OF STUDY BSN PROGRAM Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Effective Fall 2013) NON-NURSING PREREQUISITE COURSES AND CREDITS English Composition I... 3 World Literature... 3 English Composition II... 3 Marriage and Family (The Family)... 3 College Algebra... 3 Human Growth and Development (Developmental World Civilization to 1648 AD... 3 Psychology)... 3 World Civilization since 1648 AD... 3 * Human Anatomy and Physiology I w/ lab... 4 General Psychology... 3 * Human Anatomy and Physiology II w/ lab... 4 Nutrition in Health Care... 3 * Microbiology w/lab... 4 Introduction to Sociology... 3 * General Chemistry w/lab or Fundamentals of General, Fine Arts Course (Appreciation)... 3 Organic and Biochemistry w/ lab...4 * Principles of Biology w/ lab or Human Biology w/lab... 4 Introduction to Statistics... 3 Note: Grade of C or better is required in all courses. *At the time of application, three of the five natural sciences must be completed. Only one natural science course may be repeated, one time. TOTAL HOURS... 59 USM UPPER-DIVISION UNDERGRADUATE COURSES 1 st Semester NSG 321 Introduction to Clinical Nursing Practice 3 NSG 321L Introduction to Clinical Nursing Practice Lab 2 NSG 333 Health Promotion & Assessment...3 NSG 333L Health Promotion & Assessment Lab (SS) 1 NSG 337 Professional Nursing Concepts I(WI, CC, SI).3 NSG 311 Pathophysiology.3 2 nd Semester NSG 338 Chronic Conditions Across the Lifespan... 5 NSG 338L Chronic Conditions Across the Lifespan Lab... 3 NSG 371 Mental Health Maintenance and Restoration.. 3 NSG 371L Mental Health Maintenance Restoration Lab 1 NSG 341 Nursing Pharmacology... 3 3 rd Semester NSG 407 Population-Focused Nursing 3 NSG 407L Population-Focused Nursing Lab 1 NSG 417 Health Care Systems 3 NSG 418 Evidence Based Practice 3 4th Semester NSG 432 Acute Conditions Across the Lifespan 5 NSG 432L Acute Conditions Across the Lifespan Lab 3 NSG 446 Health Promotion and Maintenance in Childbearing Family.3 NSG 446L Health Promotion and Maintenance in Childbearing Family Lab...1 NSG 434 Professional Nursing Concepts II.3 5 th Semester NSG 472 Complex Conditions Across the Lifespan...5 NSG 472L Complex Conditions Across the Lifespan Lab..3 NSG 486 Synthesis of Knowledge for Transition into Nursing Practice.. 3 NSG 488 Leadership (capstone) 3 Hours in BSN Program... 69 TOTAL HOURS: BSN DEGREE... 128 Each student has final responsibility to ascertain that he or she has complied with all applicable catalog requirements for graduation. Faculty advisers assist students in developing their programs, but these advisers cannot waive or vary degree requirements as they appear in the University Bulletin. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 26

CONCURRENT ACADEMIC PROGRESSION IN NURSING PATHWAY (CAPINP) Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) (Effective Fall 2014) NON-NURSING PREREQUISITE COURSES AND CREDITS English Composition I... 3 English Composition II... 3 College Algebra... 3 World Civilization to 1648 AD... 3 World Civilization since 1648 AD... 3 General Psychology... 3 Business and Professional Speaking... 3 Nutrition... 3 Introduction to Sociology... 3 Fine Arts Course (Appreciation)... 3 World Literature... 3 Marriage and Family (The Family)... 3 Human Growth and Development (Developmental Psychology)... 3 * Human Anatomy and Physiology I w/ lab... 4 * Human Anatomy and Physiology II w/ lab... 4 * Microbiology w/ lab... 4 * General Chemistry I w/ lab or Fundamentals of General, Organic and Biochemistry w/ lab... 4 Introduction to Statistics... 3 *At the time of application, three of the four natural sciences must be completed. Only one natural science may be repeated, one time. Note: Grade of C or better is required in all courses. Successful completion of all non-nursing prerequisite courses is required prior to enrolling in non-clinical RN-BSN courses. Must have earned and maintain at least a C in each nursing course from the A.D.N. program with a minimum nursing GPA of 2.00 on a 4.0 point scale. May repeat/retake only one A.D.N. nurse course one time. Must maintain current enrollment and eligible to progress status in the Associate Degree Nursing Program within the state of Mississippi. Eligible for enrollment in validation courses and clinical courses only after graduation from A.D.N. program and successful completion of NCLEX. TOTAL HOURS 58 credits USM UPPER- DIVISION UNDERGRADUATE COURSES CREDITED COURSES Course credit is given in the following areas only after successful completion of the first semester in the nursing program. The student must register for these courses in order to receive credit. VALIDATION OF PREVIOUSLY EARNED CREDITS NSG 307 Commonalities in Nursing Practice... 4 NSG 361 Medical-Surgical Nursing... 14 NSG 362 Psychiatric Nursing... 6 NSG 363 Maternal-Child Nursing... 10 VALIDATION CREDIT HOURS... 34 NSG 357 Pathophysiology. 3 NSG 330 Health Assessment & Promotion... 5 NSG 354*** Population Health Nursing... 5 NSG 464** Leadership & Management.. 4 NSG 317 Research for Evidence-Based Practice.. 4 NSG 457*** Translating Research into Practice 5 NSG 332** Role Development as a Nurse Scientist. 4 NSG 470 Ethics and Critical Thinking... 3 NSG 438 Health Policy and Economics 3 ** Indicates Writing Intensive course. *** Indicates Clinical course Hours in RN-BSN Program 36 Hours - Validation Credit.. 34 TOTAL HOURS: BSN DEGREE 128 Each student has final responsibility to ascertain that he/she has complied with all applicable catalog requirements for graduation. Faculty advisers assist students in developing their programs, but these advisers cannot waive or vary degree requirements as they appear in the University Bulletin. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 27

BSN VETERANS PATHWAY Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Effective Fall 2015) NON-NURSING PREREQUISITE COURSES AND CREDITS English Composition I.. 3 Human Growth and Development (Developmental English Composition II. 3 Psychology)... 3 College Algebra 3 * Human Anatomy and Physiology I w/ Lab... 4 World Civilization to 1648 AD 3 * Human Anatomy and Physiology II w/ Lab... 4 World Civilization since 1648 AD... 3 * Microbiology w/ Lab. 4 General Psychology.. 3 * General Chemistry w/ lab or Fundamentals of Nutrition in Health Care... 3 General, Organic and Biochemistry w/ Lab... 4 Introduction to Sociology... 3 * Principles of Biology w/ lab or Human Biology w/ Fine Arts Course (Appreciation).. 3 Biology w/ Lab... 4 World Literature... 3 Introduction to Statistics... 3 Marriage and Family (The Family).. 3 Note: Grade of C or better is required in all courses. * May only repeat/retake one required science prerequisite one time. TOTAL HOURS... 59 USM UPPER-DIVISION UNDERGRADUATE COURSES Spring Admission 1 st Semester Spring 4 th Semester - Spring NSG 321 Introduction to Clinical Nursing Practice*.. 3 NSG 432 Acute Conditions Across the Lifespan... 5 NSG 333 Health Promotion and Assessment*.... 3 NSG 432L Acute Conditions cross the Lifespan NSG 321L Introduction to Clinical Nursing Practice Lab 3 Lab**.... 2 NSG 434 Professional Nursing Concepts II. 3 NSG 333L Health Promotion and Assessment Lab**. 1 NSG 446 Health Promotion & Maintenance in Child- NSG 311 Pathophysiology... 3 Bearing Family... 3 NSG 337 Professional Nursing Concepts I.. 3 NSG 446L Health Promotion & Maintenance in NSG 341 Pharmacology... 3 Child-Bearing Family Lab... 1 2 nd Semester Summer 5 th Semester - Fall NSG 407 Population Focused Nursing... 3 NSG 472 Complex Conditions Across the Lifespan 5 NSG 407L Population Focused Nursing Lab**... 1 NSG 472L Complex Conditions Across the NSG 417 Healthcare Systems... 3 Lifespan Lab. 3 NSG 418 Evidence-Based Practice.. 3 NSG 486 Synthesis of Knowledge for Transition Into Nursing Practice 3 3 rd Semester Fall NSG 488 Leadership (CAPSTONE) 3 NSG 338 Chronic Conditions Across the Lifespan.. 5 NSG 338L Chronic Conditions Across the Hours in the Veterans BSN Pathway 69 Lifespan Lab. 3 TOTAL HOURS: BSN DEGREE 128 NSG 371 Mental Health Maintenance and Restoration 3 *Transfer credits NSG 371L Mental Health Maintenance and **Clinical/Challenge credits Restoration Lab**. 1 (if clinical challenges are unsuccessful, student must take theory and/or lab courses with other BSN students) Each student has final responsibility to ascertain that s/he has complied with all applicable catalog requirements for graduation. Faculty advisers assist students in developing their programs, but these advisors cannot waive or vary degree requirements as they appear in the University Bulletin. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 28

BSN VETERANS PATHWAY Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Effective Fall 2015) NON-NURSING PREREQUISITE COURSES AND CREDITS English Composition I.. 3 Human Growth and Development (Developmental English Composition II. 3 Psychology)... 3 College Algebra 3 * Human Anatomy and Physiology I w/ Lab... 4 World Civilization to 1648 AD 3 * Human Anatomy and Physiology II w/ Lab... 4 World Civilization since 1648 AD... 3 * Microbiology w/ Lab. 4 General Psychology.. 3 * General Chemistry w/ lab or Fundamentals of Nutrition in Health Care... 3 General, Organic and Biochemistry w/ Lab... 4 Introduction to Sociology... 3 * Principles of Biology w/ lab or Human Biology w/ Fine Arts Course (Appreciation).. 3 Biology w/ Lab... 4 World Literature... 3 Introduction to Statistics... 3 Marriage and Family (The Family).. 3 Note: Grade of C or better is required in all courses. * May only repeat/retake one required science prerequisite one time. TOTAL HOURS... 59 USM UPPER-DIVISION UNDERGRADUATE COURSES Fall Admission 1 st Semester Fall 4 th Semester - Fall NSG 321 Introduction to Clinical Nursing Practice*.. 3 NSG 432 Acute Conditions Across the Lifespan... 5 NSG 333 Health Promotion and Assessment*... 3 NSG 432L Acute Conditions cross the Lifespan NSG 321L Introduction to Clinical Nursing Practice Lab 3 Lab** 2 NSG 434 Professional Nursing Concepts II. 3 NSG 333L Health Promotion and Assessment Lab**. 1 NSG 446 Health Promotion & Maintenance in Child- NSG 311 Pathophysiology... 3 Bearing Family... 3 NSG 337 Professional Nursing Concepts I.. 3 NSG 446L Health Promotion & Maintenance in NSG 341 Pharmacology... 3 Child-Bearing Family Lab... 1 2nd Semester Spring 5 th Semester - Spring NSG 338 Chronic Conditions Across the Lifespan.. 5 NSG 472 Complex Conditions Across the Lifespan 5 NSG 338L Chronic Conditions Across the NSG 472L Complex Conditions Across the Lifespan Lab. 3 Lifespan Lab. 3 NSG 371 Mental Health Maintenance and NSG 486 Synthesis of Knowledge for Transition Restoration 3 Into Nursing Practice 3 NSG 371L Mental Health Maintenance and NSG 488 Leadership (CAPSTONE) 3 Restoration Lab**. 1 Hours in the Veterans BSN Pathway... 69 3 rd Semester Summer TOTAL HOURS: BSN DEGREE 128 NSG 407 Population Focused Nursing... 3 *Transfer credits NSG 407L Population Focused Nursing Lab**.. 1 **Clinical/Challenge credits NSG 417 Healthcare Systems. 3 (if clinical challenges are unsuccessful, student must take NSG 418 Evidence-Based Practice. 3 theory and/or lab courses with other BSN students) Each student has final responsibility to ascertain that s/he has complied with all applicable catalog requirements for graduation. Faculty advisers assist students in developing their programs, but these advisors cannot waive or vary degree requirements as they appear in the University Bulletin. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 29

RN BSN PROGRAM Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Effective Fall 2014) NON-NURSING PREREQUISITE COURSES AND CREDITS English Composition I... 3 World Literature... 3 English Composition II... 3 Marriage and Family (The Family)... 3 College Algebra... 3 Human Growth and Development (Developmental World Civilization to 1648 AD... 3 Psychology)... 3 World Civilization since 1648 AD... 3 * Human Anatomy and Physiology I w/ lab... 4 General Psychology... 3 * Human Anatomy and Physiology II w/ lab... 4 Business and Professional Speaking... 3 * Microbiology w/ lab... 3 Nutrition... 3 * General Chemistry I w/ lab or Fundamentals of General, Introduction to Sociology...3 Organic and Biochemistry w/ lab... 4 Fine Arts Course (Appreciation)... 3 Introduction to Statistics... 3 Note: Grade of C or better is required in all courses. *At the time of application, three of the five natural sciences must be completed. Only one natural science may be repeated, one time. Must have earned at least a C in each nursing course from the A.D.N. program with a minimum nursing GPA of 2.00 on a 4.0 point scale. May repeat/retake only one A.D.N. nurse course one time. TOTAL HOURS..................................................... 58 USM UPPER- DIVISION UNDERGRADUATE COURSES Course credit is given in the following areas only after successful completion of the first semester in the nursing program. The student must register for these courses in order to receive credit. VALIDATION OF PREVIOUSLY EARNED CREDITS NSG 307 Commonalities in Nursing Practice... 4 NSG 361 Medical-Surgical Nursing... 14 NSG 362 Psychiatric Nursing... 6 NSG 363 Maternal-Child Nursing... 10 Validation Credit Hours... 34 NSG 357 Pathophysiology. 3 NSG 330 Health Assessment & Promotion... 5 NSG 354*** Population Health Nursing... 5 NSG 464** Leadership & Management.. 4 NSG 317 Research for Evidence-Based Practice.. 4 NSG 457*** Translating Research into Practice 5 NSG 332** Role Development as a Nurse Scientist. 4 NSG 470 Ethics and Critical Thinking... 3 NSG 438 Health Policy and Economics 3 ** Indicates Writing Intensive course. *** Indicates Clinical course Hours in RN-BSN Program 36 Hours - Validation Credit.. 34 TOTAL HOURS: BSN DEGREE 128 Each student has final responsibility to ascertain that he/she has complied with all applicable catalog requirements for graduation. Faculty advisers assist students in developing their programs, but these advisers cannot waive or vary degree requirements as they appear in the University Bulletin. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 30

RN - MSN PROGRAM Master of Science in Nursing NON-NURSING PREREQUISITE COURSES AND CREDITS * Credit Hours Credit Hours English Composition I... 3 World Literature... 3 English Composition II... 3 Marriage and Family (The Family)... 3 College Algebra... 3 Human Growth and Development (Developmental World Civilization to 1648 AD... 3 Psychology)... 3 World Civilization since 1648 AD... 3 * Human Anatomy and Physiology I w/ lab... 4 General Psychology... 3 * Human Anatomy and Physiology II w/ lab... 4 Business and Professional Speaking... 3 * Microbiology w/ lab... 3 Nutrition... 3 * General Chemistry I w/ lab or Fundamentals of General, Introduction to Sociology...3 Organic and Biochemistry w/ lab... 4 Fine Arts Course (Appreciation)....3 Introduction to Statistics... 3 Note: Grade of "C" or better is required in all courses. *At the time of application, three of the five natural sciences must be completed. Only one natural science may be repeated, one time Statistics must be taken prior to beginning the graduate-level courses. The student may substitute graduate-level statistics Apply to Southern Miss Graduate College TOTAL HOURS........ USM UPPER- DIVISION UNDERGRADUATE COURSES 62 CREDITED COURSES Course credit is given in the following areas only after successful completion of NSG 403. The student must register for these courses in order to receive course credit. NSG 307 Commonalities in Nursing Practice... 4 NSG 361 Medical-Surgical Nursing... 14 NSG 362 Psychiatric Nursing... 6 NSG 363 Maternal-Child Nursing... 10 TOTAL HOURS... 34 COURSES IN THE UNDERGRADUATE UPPER DIVISION NSG 354*** Population Health Nursing... 5 NSG 357 Pathophysiology... 3 NSG 332** Role Development as a Nurse Scientist. 4 NSG 464 Leadership and Management.....4 TOTAL HOURS... 16 hours USM GRADUATE COURSES CORE COURSES EMPHASIS AREAS NSG 600 Policy, Organization & Financing of Healthcare.3 Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing... 40 NSG 605 Evidence Based Research... 4 Family Nurse Practitioner... 37 TOTAL HOURS CORE CURRICULUM 7 College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 31

Master of Science in Nursing Program YEAR ONE Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: MSN Prerequisite: FALL 1 HOURS NSG 646 Advanced Pharmocotherapeutics 3 NSG 647 Advanced Pathophysiology 3 NSG 803 Advanced Health Assessment 3 NSG 608 Advanced Practice Nurse Role I 2 Semester Total 11 SPRING 1 NSG 605 Evidence Based Practice 4 NSG 630 Psychobiological Theories & Assessment for APN 3 NSG 636 Psychopharmacology 2 NSG 615 Health Promotion 2 Semester Total 11 YEAR TWO FALL 2 NSG 631 FPMHNP Diagnosis and Management for Individuals 3 NSG 631L FPMHNP I Practicum (180 clinical hours) 4 NSG 600 Policy, Organization & Financing of Healthcare 3 Semester Total 10 SPRING 2 NSG 635 FPMHNP Diagnosis & Management with Groups and Fam 3 NSG 635L FPMHNP Practicum II (180 clinical hours) 4 NSG 609 Advanced Practice Nurse Role II 2 SUMMER 2 Semester Total 9 NSG 634L FPMHNP Practicum III (Internship) Semester Total 6 TOTAL HOURS = 47 hours TOTAL HOURS 44 College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 32

Master of Science in Nursing Program Family Nurse Practitioner MSN YEAR ONE Prerequisite: FALL 1 HOURS NSG 646 Advanced Pharmocotherapeutics 3 NSG 647 Advanced Pathophysiology 3 NSG 803 Advanced Health Assessment 3 NSG 608 Advanced Practice Nurse Role I 2 Semester Total 11 SPRING 1 NSG 605 Evidence Based Practice 4 NSG 667 Family Nurse Practitioner Diagnosis & Management I 3 NSG 667L Family Nurse Practitioner I Practicum (180 clinical hours) 4 NSG 615 Health Promotion 2 Semester Total 13 YEAR TWO FALL 2 NSG 668 Family Nurse Practitioner Diagnosis & Management: Women, Children 2 NSG 668L Family Nurse Practitioner II Practicum (180 clinical hours) 4 NSG 600 Policy, Organization & Financing of Healthcare 3 Semester Total 9 SPRING 2 NSG 669 FNP Diagnosis & Management II (First 8 weeks) 3 NSG 664L FNP Internship (270 clinical hours) 6 NSG 609 Advanced Practice Nurse Role II (Last 8 weeks) 2 Semester Total 11 TOTAL HOURS = 44 hours TOTAL HOURS 44 College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 33

DNP PROGRAM Doctor of Nursing Practice YEAR ONE Doctor of Nursing Practice Curriculum-Full Time Plan of Study Prerequisite: DPH 623 Adv. Statistics FALL 1 DPH 723 NSG 805 NSG 807 SPRING 1 NSG 809 NSG 811 NSG 810 NSG 816 Biostatistics II...........3 Role Development in Advanced Nursing Practice......3 Theories and Ethics for Advanced Nursing Practice..... 3 Methods for Evaluating Evidence Based Practice... 3 Population Health and Epidemiology........4 Practice Inquiry I: Scholarly Inquiry in Clinical Practice..1 Doctoral Capstone Inquiry......2 SUMMER 1 NSG 813 Policy and Politics in Healthcare....3 NSG 812 Practice Inquiry II: Appraisal of Evidence for Practice............1 NSG 816 Doctoral Capstone Inquiry.....4 YEAR TWO FALL 2 NSG 817 NSG 814 NSG 816 SPRING 2 NSG 819 NSG 816 Quality and Organizational Leadership in Healthcare Systems........ 4 Practice Inquiry III: Translating Research into Practice........3 D o c t o r a l Capstone Inquiry......4 Economics and Finance.....3 Doctoral Capstone Inquiry.3-6 TOTAL HOURS = 42-45 hours College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 34

DNP PROGRAM BSN to DNP Nurse Anesthesia Program (NAP) YEAR ONE BSN to DNP Nurse Anesthesia Program (NAP) Full-time Program of Study Prerequisite: DPH 623 Adv. Statistics Spring 1 NSG 811 Population Health and Epidemiology 4 NSG 830 Anatomy and Physiology for Anesthesia I 3 NSG 832 Advanced Pharmacology for Anesthesia I 3 NSG 850 Professional Aspects of Nurse Anesthesia Practice 3 13 Summer 1 NSG 833 Advanced Pharmacology for Anesthesia II 3 NSG 834 Chemistry and Physics for Anesthesia 3 NSG 831 Anatomy and Physiology for Anesthesia II 3 9 Fall 1 NSG 805 Role Development in Advanced Nursing Practice 3 CHS 723 Biostatistics II 3 NSG 835 Advanced Pathophysiology for Anesthesia 3 NSG 837 Basic Principles of Anesthesia Practice (Sim Lab/OR orientation) 3 NSG 836 Advanced Health Assessment for Anesthesia 3 15 YEAR TWO Spring 2 NSG 809 Methods for Evaluating Evidenced Based Practice 3 NSG 819 Economics and Finance 3 NSG 838 Principles of Anesthesia Practice I 3 NSG 839 Anesthesia Practicum I (OR/Sim Lab 3 days/week) 4 NSG 810 Practice Inquiry I: Scholarly Inquiring in Clinical Practice 1 14 Summer 2 NSG 813 Policy and Politics in Healthcare 3 NSG 840 Principles of Anesthesia Practice II 3 NSG 841 Anesthesia Practicum II (OR/Sim Lab 4days/week) 6 NSG 812 Practice Inquiry II: Appraisal of Evidence for Practice 1 Fall 2 NSG 842 Advanced Principles of Anesthesia Practice I 3 NSG 843 Anesthesia Practicum III (OR 4days/week) 6 NSG 807 Theory and Ethics for Advanced Nursing Practice 3 NSG 814 Practice Inquiry III 1 College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 35

YEAR THREE BSN to DNP Nurse Anesthesia Program (NAP) Full-time Program of Study Spring 3 NSG 844 Advanced Principles of Anesthesia Practice II 3 NSG 845 Anesthesia Practicum IV (OR 4 days/week) 6 NSG 816 Capstone Inquiry 4 13 Summer 3 NSG 846 Seminars in Anesthesia I 1 NSG 847 Anesthesia Practicum V (OR 4 days/week) 6 NSG 816 Capstone Inquiry 4 11 Fall 3 NSG 817 Quality and Organizational Leadership in Healthcare Systems 4 NSG 848 Seminars in Anesthesia II 2 NSG 849 Anesthesia Practicum VI (OR-4days/week) 6 NSG 816 Capstone Inquiry 4 16 TOTAL HOURS = 117 hours College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 36

BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Leadership Full-time Program of Study YEAR ONE BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Leadership, Full-time Program of Study Prerequisite: CHS 623 Adv. Statistics Fall 1 CHS 723 Biostatistics II 3 NSG 805 Role Development in Advanced Nursing Practice 3 BA 600 Management Foundations (8W1) 3 BA 611 Accounting Foundations (8W2) 3 12 Spring 1 BA 670 Finance Foundations (8W1) 3 BA 650 Marketing Foundations (8W2) 3 NSG 811 Population Health and Epidemiology 4 10 Summer 1 NSG 813 Policy and Politics in Healthcare 3 NSG 854 Health Care Law and Human Resources 3 6 YEAR TWO Fall 2 NSG 817 Quality and Organizational Leadership in Healthcare Systems 4 NSG 807 Theories and Ethics for Advanced Nursing Practice 3 NSG854L Leadership Practicum (180 hours) 4 11 Spring 2 NSG 809 Methods for Evaluating Evidence Based Practice 3 NSG 819 Economics and Finance in Healthcare Systems 3 NSG 810 Practice Inquiry I 1 NSG 816 Doctoral Capstone (90 hrs) 2 10 Summer 2 NSG 812 Practice Inquiry II 1 NSG 816 Doctoral Capstone (180 hrs) 4 5 YEAR THREE Fall 3 NSG 814 Practice Inquiry III: Translating Research into Practice 1 NSG 816 Doctoral Capstone (270 hrs) 6 7 Spring 3 NSG 816 Doctoral Capstone (180-225 hrs) 4-5 TOTAL HOURS = 65 hours College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 37

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Program BSN to PhD Program of Study Course Numbers Course Credit Hours NSG 852 Philosophy in Science & Nursing Science 3 Theory Development & Evaluation in NSG 853 Nursing 3 NSG 818 Quantitative Research Design 3 NSG 821 Qualitative Research Design 3 NSG 823 Measurement in Nursing Science 3 NSG 825 Ethics in Organizations & Leadership 3 Structure & Governance in Higher NSG 827 Education 3 Comments NSG 828 Organizational Dynamics in Healthcare 3 NSG 813 Policy and Politics in Healthcare 3 With DNP Students NSG 829 Leadership and Organizational Theory 3 Statistics 6 (e.g., DPH 623, DPH 723) Support Courses 12 NSG 898 (already established) Dissertation 12 BSN to PhD Sample Plan of Study Year 1=27-30 hrs Fall Spring Summer N852 Philosophy in Science & Nursing Science N853 Theory Development & Evaluation in Nursing N818 Quantitative Research Design N821 Qualitative Research Design N813 Policy & Politics N829 Leadership and Organizational Theory DPH 623 Biostatistics DPH 723 Biostatistics II N823 Measurement Support Course Total= 9 Total=9-12 Total=9 Year 2=15-26 hrs Fall Spring Summer N825 Ethics in Organization & Leadership N828 Organizational Dynamics in Healthcare N827 Structure & Governance in Higher Education Comprehensive Exam Prep Course Dissertation Workshop Support Course (3-6 hours) Dissertation Proposal Defense Support Course (if needed) Possible dissertation workshop College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 38

Support Course Comprehensive Exam Total=9-12 Total=5-8 Total=1-6 Year 3=12 hrs Fall Spring Summer Dissertation Dissertation (if needed) Dissertation (if needed) Dissertation Defense Total=1-6 Total=1-6 Total=1-6 MSN to PhD Sample Plan of Study Year 1=27 hrs Fall Spring Summer N852 Philosophy in Science N818 Quantitative & Nursing Science Research Design N813 Policy N853 Theory Development & N821 Qualitative Research Evaluation in Nursing Design N828 Organizational Dynamics DPH 623 Biostatistics DPH 723 Biostatistics II N823 Measurement Total= 9 Total=9 Total=9 Year 2=12-20 hrs Fall Spring Summer N825 Ethics in Organization Comprehensive Exam & Leadership Prep Course Dissertation N829 Organizational Dynamics in Healthcare Dissertation Workshop Proposal Defense N827 Structure & Governance in Higher Education (Optional Support Course) Support Course (if needed) Comprehensive Exam Total=6-9 Total=2-5 Total=1-6 Year 3=12 hrs Fall Spring Summer Dissertation Dissertation (if needed) Dissertation (if needed) Dissertation Defense Total=1-6 Total=1-6 Total=1-6 College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 39

CHAPTER II: ACADEMIC INFORMATION COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Subject: Academic Information Title of Policy: Progression to Non-Clinical Number: CON1007 Courses in BSN Program Effective Date: Spring 2008 Supersedes: Approved Date: October 15, 2007 Approved by: NFO Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: To provide guidelines for students who fail or drop a nursing course. 2. Policy Statement: A student in the BSN program who either drops or fails a nursing course is allowed to progress to non-clinical courses except for NSG 488 Leadership and NSG 486 Synthesis of Knowledge for Transition into Nursing Practice, which must be taken in the final semester of the program of studies. All nursing courses from previous semesters must be successfully completed before enrolling in NSG 488/486. NSG 338 Chronic Conditions Across the Lifespan and NSG 338L Chronic Conditions Across the Lifespan Lab courses include NSG 341 Nursing Pharmacology as a co-requisite. NSG 341 course content is essential to application of knowledge and practice in NSG 338 and NSG 338L. 3. Procedures: As stated within the Policy Statement. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 40

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Subject: Academic Information Title of Policy: Progression of RN-BSN After Number: CON1009 Break in Attendance (Withdrawal From Program) Effective Date: April 21, 2008 Supersedes: Approved Date: April 21, 2008 Approved by: NFO Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: The policy regarding students reentering the nursing program after break in attendance reads that students who have previously enrolled in nursing courses, have a break in attendance of one or more terms, and leave in good standing may reapply. 2. Policy Statement: The College of Nursing is temporarily suspending any future applications for admission into the RN-BSN Program. Courses required for graduation will be offered for currently enrolled students including new students enrolled for the Fall 2015 semester. 3. Procedures: As stated in the Policy Statement. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 41

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Subject: Academic Information Title of Policy: Kaplan Integrated Test Number: CON1011 Remediation Program - Undergraduate Effective Date: August 14, 2013 Supersedes: Approved Date: Approved by: NFO Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: Students should review each test and determine the weakest areas and topics and strengthen their knowledge on those topics. Just answering questions will not prepare the student for the NCLEX examination that they will have to take to obtain their nursing license. The student must learn the content for application to clinical judgment and decision-making in nursing. Critical thinking and clinical judgment are essential for nurses to provide safe and effective nursing care. 2. Policy: All courses have assigned Kaplan integrated tests that include remediation based upon individual assessment results. Integrated tests should be administered one to two weeks prior to final exam 3. Procedures: Faculty will schedule Integrated Testing sessions by sending an e-mail to integrated.support@kaplan.com at least 5 business days prior to the exam. NOTE: For test security and integrity reasons, usernames and passwords should never be shared. Faculty will administer the tests under proctored conditions. Courses with integrated tests include: Course NSG 337 Profession Nursing Concepts I NSG 321 Introduction to Clinical Practice NSG 333 Health Promotion and Assessment NSG 311 Pathophysiology NSG 338 Chronic Conditions Across the Lifespan NSG 341 Nursing Pharmacology NSG 371 Mental Health Maintenance & Restoration Across the Lifespan Kaplan Integrated Test Critical Thinking (no remediation) Fundamentals (75 items; 90 minutes) Wellness/Physical Assessment (75 items; 90 minutes) Pathophysiology (75 items; 90 minutes) Medical Surgical 1 [custom exam for chronic conditions] (90 items; 102 minutes) Pharmacology / Parenteral (75 items; 90 minutes) Psychosocial (75 items; 90 minutes) College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 42

NSG 407 Population Focused Nursing NSG 418 Evidence Based Practice NSG 432 Acute Conditions Across the Lifespan NSG 446 Health Promotion & Maintenance in Childbearing Families NSG 472 Complex Conditions Across the Lifespan NSG 486 Synthesis of Knowledge for Transition into Nursing Practice NSG 488 Leadership Community Test (75 items; 90 minutes) Research (90 items; 108 minutes) Medical Surgical 2 [custom exam for acute conditions] (90 items; 102 minutes) Nutrition (75 items; 90 minutes) OB (75 items; 90 minutes) OR OB / Growth &Development (75 items; 90 minutes ) Medical Surgical Comprehensive (75 items; 90 minutes) Pediatric (75 items; 90 minutes) Nursing Assessment Test [administer at beginning of last semester]; ( 180 questions; 216 minutes) Exit Exams (See Exit Exam Policy): Kaplan Secure Predictor Kaplan Diagnostic Test Management/Professional Issues (75 items; 90 questions) Scoring on the Integrated Tests and Remediation: All students are required to evaluate their test and review areas they need to study. (encourage all students to complete the review and analysis of integrated test) A remediation plan is required for all students on the integrated tests. Remediation is mandatory and will be assigned by the course faculty based upon a student s score. A completion date for the remediation plan will be assigned by the faculty. Test scores and assigned remediation will be monitored by the course faculty. A report will be submitted by course faculty to the Director of the BSN Program verifying that all students have completed remediation. Students will complete Kaplan Study Guide for Integrated Tests 1. Section 1: Students will receive a Review and Analysis of Integrated Test: This is to help the student evaluate their test and guide them to where they need to study. If this was a College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 43

normed test, it will show how the student compares with the group of students who took this same test across the United States (or how they compared with the national norm). If it shows a Percentile Ranking, it will compare how the student stands with other nursing students. For example: 74th percentile means the student did better than 74% of all the students who took the test across the United States. On the Analysis page that contains graphs, the colored bar on the top represents the student s percentage of correct answers for that area, the gray bar below it represents how the nation answered the same questions. The goal is for students to score equal to or greater than the national average. If students score less than the national average, the student needs more study in that content area. When clicking on the actual topic there may be up to 3 bolded areas: 1) Kaplan Overview general information on the topic 2) Essential Nursing Care more in depth information that includes assessment, implementation, outcomes 3) Background for Nursing Care additional information on patient teaching, pathophysiology, complications There are many resources provided to assist the students in learning the content. The student must review each test and determine the weakest areas and topics and strengthen their knowledge on those topics. Just answering questions will not prepare the student for the NCLEX examination. The student must learn the content and be able to make sound clinical decisions at the patient s bedside. The student should complete chart below on Kaplan site and follow the instructions to promote success College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 44

Additional examples of remediation include (but not limited to): Have students complete note cards on topics that need more study. Create a focused review including all information possible to strengthen knowledge on those topics. Take Kaplan focused review tests (focus on rationales and learning content in topics needing more study) Have students prepare a 15 minute focused lecture on topics that need more study. Have students review content videos: 1) To access these videos, go to your Kaplan IT student homepage. RN: https://kaplanlwwtesting.kaplan.com/s_login.aspx 2) Locate NCLEX Prep (gray box on lower right.) 3) Click on top link > NCLEX Review. 4) Look for title Review of Content click Go to the right. 5) Seven categories will appear. Click on one and an audio/video presentation of that topic will appear. Click on any module to start viewing the video. Hover over each module to see the title. The video list is shown below. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 45

Basic Care and Comfort: Mobility and Immobility Conditions Limiting Mobility Interventions to Promote Comfort Musculoskeletal Trauma Rest and Sleep Disturbances Nutrition Elimination Health Promotion and Maintenance: Growth and Development Childbearing Normal Childbearing Maternal Complications Childbearing Neonatal Normal Neonatal Complications Reproduction Prevention and Early Detection of Disease Physiological Adaptation: Medical Emergencies Fluid and Electrolyte Imbalances Alterations in Body Systems Cancer Physiological Integrity: Coping and Adaptation I Coping and Adaptation 2 Coping and Adaptation 3 Psychosocial Adaptation Psychopathology Chemical Dependency Abuse and Neglect Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies: Blood and Blood Products Intravenous Therapy Medications Part I Medications Part II Medications Part III Medicaitons Part IV Side Effects Reduction of Risk Potential: Sensory and Perceptual Alterations Alterations in Body Systems Part I Alterations in Body Systems Part II Alterations in Body Systems Part III Perioperative Care Diagnostic Tests Therapeutic Procedures Safe and Effective Care Environment: Management of care Safety and Infection Control College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 46

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student - Undergraduate Subject: Academic Information Title of Policy: Exit Kaplan Predictor Progression Number: CON1013 and Remediation Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: Approved by: NFO Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: to act as a gap analysis for the student as they begin to individualize their preparation for the NCLEX, and to evaluate the probability of passing the NCLEX. 2. Policy: Customized comprehensive exit predictor exams will be administered to undergraduate BSN students during their second semester, senior year. 3. Procedure: 1. The Exit Kaplan Predictor tests will be administered in NSG 486 Synthesis of knowledge for Transition into Nursing Practice in new curriculum by the NSG 486 faculty. These tests will be given prior to students exiting the program. 2. All Exit Kaplan Predictor tests will be administered in NSG 486 on the same day. 3. Different versions of the Exit Kaplan Predictor tests will be administered. The Kaplan Secure Predictor #1 is a normed test with attached predictability data. This is a 150 item secure test which must be proctored, and will not reveal answers/rationales to the students when the test has been completed. The students will have topic remediation links available to them. The Kaplan Diagnostic Test is a 180 item test and will be administered as a secure proctored test. This test provides the student with the opportunity to evaluate their content gaps and enables them to direct their own trajectory of study for NCLEX. This test will be administered at end of the semester prior to the Kaplan Live Review Course. 4. The minimum acceptable score on the Kaplan Secure Predictor #1 test is 62 (95% probability of passing NCLEX). The minimum acceptable score on the Kaplan Diagnostic test is 65 (95% probability of passing NCLEX). 5. No other exams will be given to applicable fourth semester students on the same day as Kaplan Predictor tests. 6. All students will meet with their assigned NSG 486 faculty for a remediation contract. Faculty will identify remediation areas and activities on the contract with the student. All students will remediate on both Kaplan Predictor tests. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 47

7. Students not completing the individualized remediation plans, will receive a grade of I in NSG 486. The faculty will replace the I with the student s earned course grade when remediation is successfully completed. 8. All students will be required to take the Kaplan Review Course upon graduation. Faculty s Responsibilities 1. Schedule and administer the Kaplan Predictor tests. 2. Send reports of student scores, related statistical data, and a summary of remediation activities to the Director of the BSN Program. 3. Initiate remediation contracts for all students addressing content gaps. 4. Encourage students to complete their remediation contracts by deadlines. 5. Evaluate whether the students successfully complete remediation assignments within the time frames allowed. Report remediation outcomes and submit completed remediation contracts to the Director of the BSN Program at the end of each semester. 6. Submit completed contracts at end of the semester to be placed in student files. 7. Notify the Director of the BSN Program of students who fail to complete their remediation contracts. The Director of the BSN Program will: 1. Address problems in regard to incomplete remediation contracts. 2. Provide related reports, statistical data, and a summary of remediation activities to the Chair of Collaborative Care Department and Dean of the CON and appropriate CON groups and committees 3. Communicate regularly with faculty regarding Kaplan progression policy and implementation outcomes. 4. Assure that all students Exit Kaplan Predictor scores and remediation contracts are placed in student records. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 48

Exit Kaplan Predictor Advisement Plan Student: First Name: Last Name: Campus Hattiesburg Gulf Park Faculty: Kaplan Secure Predictor #1 Score: Benchmark Score > 62 Advisement Plan Meet with NSG 486 faculty and develop the remediation plan as outlined below. Student/Faculty Meeting Date: Advisement Contract Due Date: I agree to the advisement plan. Student Signature: Contract obligations complete. Proceed to take Kaplan Diagnostic test. Date: Faculty Signature: Contract obligations incomplete, recommend: Date: Faculty Signature: College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 49

Exit Kaplan Predictor Advisement Plan Student: First Name: Last Name: Campus Hattiesburg Gulf Park Faculty: Kaplan Diagnostic Test: Benchmark Score > 65 Advisement Plan 1. Meet with NSG 486 faculty and develop the remediation plan as outlined below. 2. Attend Kaplan Review Course Student/Faculty Meeting Date: Advisement Contract Due Date: I agree to the advisement plan. Student Signature: Contract obligations complete. Proceed to take Kaplan Diagnostic test. Date: Faculty Signature: Contract obligations incomplete, recommend: Date: Faculty Signature: College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 50

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student - Undergraduate Subject: Academic Information Title of Policy: Dosage and Calculation Exam Number: CON1010 Policy for BSN Students Effective Date: Spring 2015 Supersedes: Approved Date: 1/7/2015 Approved by: Collaborative Nursing Care Department and College of Nursing Policy Committee 1. Rationale or background to policy: The policy defines the medication calculation examination process during the BSN nursing program. An exam will be given in 4 semesters of the program of study. The policy defines the method for exam construction, number of times a student may attempt to pass the exam and penalties for failure to pass the exam with a score of 100%. 2. Policy Statement A Dosage and Calculation exam will be administered at the beginning of clinical courses in which students are giving medications in the clinical setting. (This includes: 338L, 432L, 446L and 472L) The student will pass the exam with the approved score of 100% prior to beginning medication administration. A committee, comprised of clinical coordinators and the director of the undergraduate BSN program, will create the test blueprint for the dosage calculation test. Each clinical coordinator will be responsible for creating three versions of the test which will also be approved by the committee. The clinical course coordinator will be responsible for administering the test during the first clinical orientation class of the above listed clinical courses. An exception exists in the 1st semester when medication administration is confined to the lab setting. The exam is incorporated into NSG 321. Students are required to pass the medication calculation exam with a score of 100% prior to performing medication administration in a clinical setting. The NSG 321 coordinator is responsible for the examination procedure. First semester BSN students: 1. The exam will be administered in NSG 321 Introduction to Clinical Nursing Practice (theory). 2. The exam will be constructed using the recommendations of a committee of clinical coordinators and the director of the BSN undergraduate program. 3. The student must score 100% on the exam to pass. 4. The first attempt will count as 5% of the student s theory evaluation. 5. Scores for the second and third attempts to pass the exam will not be reflected in the student s evaluation. 6. The student will have 3 scheduled opportunities to pass the exam with a score of 100%. 7. After the second unsuccessful attempt the student will meet with the instructor to review a remediation plan. Remediation includes completion of Kaplan math modules and review of content in the required textbook. Additional assignments may be included. After the plan is completed, a third exam will be scheduled. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 51

8. A third unsuccessful attempt (a score less than 100%) will require the student to withdraw from the course and any co-requisite courses. Second through fifth semester BSN students: 1. The medication calculation exam will be administered in the following clinical courses: a. 338 L Chronic b. 432 L Acute c. 446 L Child-Bearing Families d. 472 L Complex 2. The exam will be constructed using the recommendations of a committee of clinical coordinators and the director of the BSN undergraduate program. 3. The student will review in the assigned medication calculation book, drug dosage calculation problems prior to the first exam in each level. 4. The student must score 100% on the exam prior to medication administration in any setting. 5. The student may attend a clinical rotation during the period of time medication calculation exams are administered but will not perform medication administration until the exam is completed with a score of 100%. 6. An unsuccessful attempt to pass each exam will result in a score of 1 on the clinical evaluation tool. This score will be reflected in the Clinical Competencies category that encompasses quality and safety, and clinical judgment. The score of 1 designates unsatisfactory; fails to meet standards; intense guidance needed. 7. The medication calculation exam will comprise 12.5% of the student s total score for the clinical courses involved (338L, 432L, 446L, and 472L). Dosage Calculation 1st attempt = 100 or 12.5; 2nd attempt (score of 100) = 85 or 10.625; final attempt (score of 100) = 77 or 9.625. 8. Students will be given three opportunities to score 100 on the exam. After the second attempt the student is required to complete a remediation plan. This plan consists of meeting with the clinical instructor, completion of Kaplan math modules, and review of content in the required textbook. Additional assignments may be included. Remediation must be completed prior to the next clinical experience. 9. A third exam will be administered by the clinical instructor after remediation is complete. The clinical course coordinator will oversee that all remediation has been completed. Following the third unsuccessful attempt to pass the medication calculation exam (scoring less than 100%) the student will be required to withdraw from the clinical course and any co-requisite courses. 3. Procedures: As stated in the policy statement College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 52

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student - Undergraduate Veteran Subject: Academic Information Pathway Title of Policy: Nursing Course Credits from Number: CON1002 Military Transcripts and Experience Effective Date: May 2015 Supersedes: Approved Date: Approved by: Revision Date: May 2015 1. Rationale or background to policy: To provide guidelines for students seeking nursing course credit for previous military courses and experience. 2. Policy Statement Student seeking admission to the BSN program s Veterans Pathway may receive transfer credit for the following courses: o Nursing 321 Introduction to Clinical Nursing - 3 credit hours o Nursing 333 Health Promotions and Assessment - 3 credit hours For students to receive credit for the above courses they must have: o Documentation on their military transcripts of the following courses: Navy NER-HN-001 or NER-HN-002 or NER-HN-004 or NER-HN-003 and NV-0703-0008, or NV-0703-0003 and NV-0709-0005 Army AR-0709-0065 or AR-0801-0036 or AR-0709-0067 and AR-0709-0070 Air Force 8AQJ4N03101AA or Practical Nurse Technology Associate of Applied Science Degree o Healthcare specialization designation on the DD Form 214 or Military Transcript of one of the following: Advanced Tactical Paramedic Aerospace Medical Service Corpsman (Navy) Healthcare Specialist Hospital Corpsman Hospitalman College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 53

Medic (Army or Air Force) Medical Specialist Patient Care Specialist Other (must have documentation on the military transcript of one of the courses identified to receive credit) (This designation on the DD Form 214 can be found in item 11 Primary Specialty ) o Successfully pass with a C or better the clinical challenges for Nursing 321L Introduction to Clinical Nursing Practice Lab and Nursing 333L Health Promotion and Assessment Lab. Request for military transcript evaluation must be requested at the University Admission s Office at the time of application to the BSN program. 3. Procedures: As stated within the Policy Statement College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 54

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student - Undergraduate Veteran Subject: Academic Information Pathway Title of Policy: Challenge Courses Number: CON1004 Effective Date: January 2015 Supersedes: Approved Date: Approved by: Revision Date: May 2015 1. Rationale or background to policy: To provide guidelines for students in the Veterans Pathway that wish to challenge specific nursing courses. 2. Policy Statement: Undergraduate: A student admitted to the Veterans Pathway in the BSN program may be allowed to challenge specific College of Nursing Clinical Courses. These course are: o Nursing 321L Introduction to Clinical Nursing Practice Lab (2 credit hours) o Nursing 333L Health Promotion and Assessment Lab (1 credit hour) o Nursing 371L Mental Health Maintenance and Restoration Lab (1 credit hour) o Nursing 407L Population Focused Nursing Lab (1 credit hour) Prior to challenging any of the above courses, the student must be admitted to the BSN program. Challenge courses must be successfully completed with a grade of C or better. Challenge courses must be passed according to the evaluation criteria listed in the specific syllabus within the first week of the semester. If the student is unsuccessful with a challenge course, they must take the theory and lab courses in the generic BSN program in a face-to-face format. The student will be allowed only one attempt to past the challenge course. Procedures: As stated within the Policy Statement and USM Bulletin Credit by Examination policy. See the evaluation criteria listed in the specific challenge course syllabus for successful completion. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 55

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Undergraduate & Graduate Subject: Academic Information Title of Policy: Add/Drop/Withdrawal Number: CON1001 Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: May 5, 2014 Approved by: Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: To provide guidelines for students wishing to add/drop/withdraw from a course or program. 2. Policy Statement Undergraduate: Graduate: a. Meet with Faculty, Director of program, and Assistant to the Dean for Advisement & Academic Records b. For the purpose of progression in the USM College of Nursing, students may not withdraw more than twice during the undergraduate program of study. c. Refer to Add/Drop/Withdrawal area of the General Academic Information section of the Undergraduate Bulletin. a. Meet with Faculty and Director of program. b. Refer to Add/Drop/Withdrawal area of the General Academic Information section of the Graduate Bulletin 3. Procedures: As stated within the Policy Statement. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 56

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Undergraduate & Graduate Subject: Academic Information Title of Policy: Readmission Number: CON1003 Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: Approved by: Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: To provide guidelines for students seeking readmission. 2. Policy Statement Undergraduate: A student who has withdrawn in good standing from the College of Nursing should refer to Readmission area in College of Nursing, Department of Collaborative Nursing Care section of the Undergraduate Bulletin. Graduate: Consult Program Director 3. Procedures: As stated within the Policy Statement College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 57

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Undergraduate & Graduate Subject: Academic Information Title of Policy: Progression Number: CON1005 Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: Approved by: Revision Date: May 2015 1. Rationale or background to policy: To provide guidelines for students enrolled in the College of Nursing. 2. Policy Statement Undergraduate: Upon admission to the program of study, the undergraduate must sign the Technical Standards Statement indicating that the student is able to meet these criteria with or without reasonable accommodations. If a student becomes out of sequence in the regular, full time Nursing Plan of Study due to dropping a course, course failure, or personal circumstances, the student will be assisted by his or her advisor to create a new plan of study, which may include part time course work in the nursing program. Only one nursing course may be repeated due to failure. When a course is repeated depends on availability of space in the course and priority is given to those needing the course to graduate. Students who fail a course are required to meet with the assigned academic advisor to receive counseling regarding future success in the nursing program. If a BSN applicant takes and fails a nursing elective before acceptance into the BSN program this will be treated as one nursing failure after admission into the BSN Program. Theory courses with associated clinical courses in the generic BSN program are counted as one course in terms of failures. If a generic BSN students fails any component of one theory/clinical course, this counts as one failure. Theory and clinical courses are separate courses for RN-BSN students. Failure of either component of a theory or clinical course counts as a separate failure for RN-BSN students. If a second nursing course is failed, a student may not progress in the nursing program. Notification of this action will be sent to the student through the mail. An appeal of the denial of progression may be made to the College of Nursing Admissions, Progression, and Retention (APR) Committee. See process below: A student may appeal CON admission or progression decisions. The student must contact the Program Director to obtain the name of the APR Committee Chairperson. The student must then contact the Chair of the APR College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 58

committee at least 15 days prior to the onset of the upcoming semester in order to alert the Chair that an appeal request will be forthcoming. The Chair will notify the student of the date of the appeals meeting. The student must provide a written letter to the APR Chair at least 5 working days before the appeals meeting. The letter should outline: a) the appeal request, b) any condition or circumstance that may have arisen to contribute to the negative outcome, c) an action plan for success if the appeal is granted, and d) any supporting materials that may facilitate the appeal request. Voting members of the APR Committee will review each student s appeal request with respect and confidentiality. Voting members of the APR Committee will recommend admission and progression/readmission decisions to the chair of the department via the APR Chair. The chair of the department will notify the student via a letter of the admission or progression decision. The APR Chair will maintain a record of appeal decisions. Refer to Academic Probation/Dismissal/Progression area in College of Nursing, Department of Collaborative Nursing Care section of the Undergraduate Bulletin. Students enrolled in the Veterans BSN pathway must pass the challenge courses with a grade of C or better. If the student is not successful in the challenge course, the student must take the theory and lab courses in the generic BSN program in a face-to-face format. Graduate A grade-point average of "B" or better must be maintained to be in good standing. Students whose grade point average falls below a 3.0 will be placed on probation. Consult Program Director. 3. Procedures: As stated within the Policy Statement. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 59

Policy Area: Student Title of Policy: Incomplete Grades Effective Date: August 2014 Approved Date: Revision Date: COLLEGE OF NURSING Subject: Academic Information Number: CON1015 Supersedes: Approved by: 1. Rationale or background to policy: To offer guidance to students regarding incomplete grades. This policy pertains to BSN, RN-BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD students. 2. Policy Statement It is the student s responsibility to assure that any grade of Incomplete or I is removed and replaced with a minimum grade of C. The student may not progress to the next semester with an I in a prerequisite course. If an I has not been removed by the end of the next semester (excluding summer semester) it automatically becomes an F 3. Procedures: As stated within the policy statement. Refer to the USM Undergraduate and Graduate Bulletins. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 60

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Subject: Academic Information Title of Policy: Academic Honesty and Plagiarism Number: CON1019 Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: Approved by: Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: To ensure the quality and integrity of all work within the College of Nursing and the University. 2. Policy Statement Undergraduate: Refer to Academic Standards and Plagiarism areas in General Academic Information section of the Undergraduate Bulletin. Graduate: Refer to the Academic Honesty and Plagiarism areas in General Academic Information section of the Graduate Bulletin. 3. Procedures: As stated in the Policy Statement. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 61

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Subject: Academic Information Title of Policy: Evaluation of Courses and Faculty Number: CON1021 by Students Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: Approved by: Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: To ensure the quality and integrity of all work within the College of Nursing and the University. 2. Policy Statement The CON actively solicits student input on teacher and course effectiveness. Students formal evaluations are incorporated into a course evaluation summary on a regular basis according to University policy. 3. Procedures: As stated within the Policy Statement. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 62

Policy Area: Student Title of Policy: Grade Posting Effective Date: August 2014 Approved Date: Revision Date: COLLEGE OF NURSING Subject: Academic Information Number: CON1023 Supersedes: Approved by: 1. Rationale or background to policy: The College of Nursing will comply with the Southern Miss and Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) Compliance Policy. 2. Policy Statement In compliance with the Southern Miss and FERPA Compliance Policy, This policy is violated if a student s grade is (1) openly mentioned in class; (2) publically posted in a personally identifiable manner such as social security number or student identification number; (3) paper, test, or projects in public view; (4) released over the telephone or electronically to any person other than the student or his/her designee with written consent. Disclosure of a students grades by a faculty member may be made only in a manner that makes the grades identifiable only to a faculty member or the student. (http://www.usm.edu/registrar/southern-miss-and-ferpa-compliance-policy) 3. Procedures: As stated within the Policy Statement. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 63

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Subject: Academic Information Title of Policy: Dismissal for Unprofessional Number: CON1025 Conduct Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: 1/98 Approved by: NFO Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: Professional conduct is defined as conducting oneself in a manner that meets generally accepted standards of professional behavior. Unprofessional conduct is defined as conducting oneself in a manner that fails to meet generally accepted standards of professional behavior. 2. Policy Statement The College of Nursing adheres to the Code of Ethics from the American Nurses Association. Unprofessional conduct standards include, but are not limited to the following: 1. Committing fraud or deceit in the application process to the College of Nursing or while enrolled in the College of Nursing 2. Negligently or willfully acting in a manner inconsistent with the health or safety of others 3. Engaging in conduct likely to deceive, defraud, or harm others 4. Negligently or willfully violating any rule, regulation or policy of the College of Nursing 5. Participating in classroom or clinical activities while under the influence of mood altering substances 6. Negligently or willfully implementing nursing care in a manner that fails to meet generally accepted standards for the student s level of preparation 7. Falsifying, plagiarizing, or in a negligent manner making incorrect entries on records or any other written work 8. Engaging in disorderly conduct or breach of the peace, such as obstruction or disruption of teaching, physical or verbal abuse, or detention of any person, while engaged in any College of Nursing activity 9. Exhibiting a physical, mental, or emotional disability which renders the student unable to provide nursing care with appropriate skill and safety in accordance with course objectives 10. Engaging in activities that breech client confidentiality, such as allowing unauthorized staff and others who are not involved with client care and communicating to others about client information in public environments When faculty members utilizing their professional expertise, judge that a student has been unsafe or otherwise unprofessional as described above, the College of Nursing reserves the right to Mandate an administrative withdrawal of the student from the College of Nursing Require psychological evaluation and counseling of the student College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 64

Mandate immediate dismissal from the College of Nursing for cause 11. Students who are administratively withdrawn may petition the administrative withdrawal. 3. Procedures: As stated within the Policy Statement. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 65

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Subject: Academic Information Title of Policy: Classroom Responsibilities of Number: CON1027 Faculty and Students Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: Approved by: Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: The University recognizes that a positive instructional environment is essential to student learning. Students and faculty both have responsibilities for maintaining an appropriate learning environment based on mutual respect, in which academic freedom for both is protected. 2. Policy Statement Classroom disruptions interfere with the academic mission of the university. The intent of this Policy is to help preserve the highest standards of teaching and learning; maximize the sharing, construction, and creation of knowledge; protect academic freedom; and advance the mission of the University as an institution of higher learning. (Refer to the Classroom-Conduct Policy at http://www.usm.edu/provost/classroom-conduct-policy and http://www.usm.edu/police/clery-act for additional information 3. Procedures: As stated in the Policy Statement. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 66

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Undergraduate Subject: Academic Information Title of Policy: Safe Clinical Practice Number: CON1029 Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: Approved by: Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: Safe practice is defined as the correct application of scientific principles in performing nursing care. Care provided by any student should be delivered in a reasonable and prudent manner with the awareness of the potential effect of action and decisions. Such actions and decisions shall not endanger the mental and physical health and well-being of the patient. 2. Policy Statement Practicing out of the safe domain is a basis for student dismissal. 3. Procedures: When faculty members judge that a student is not following safe practice, they will initiate the following procedure: 1. Faculty members are responsible for ongoing feedback to the student regarding his or her clinical practice, assuring that the student is apprised of problematic behavior. 2. Further occurrence of problematic behavior will result in a formal conference, consisting of the faculty member and the student, to discuss the identified pattern of unacceptable clinical practice and its implication for the student. Documentation of said conference will be made. This documentation will include a summary of the problematic behavior patterns identified by the faculty. A copy of this document will be given to the student. 3. The course team leader or department administrator will then discuss the problematic behavior with student. The following information is to be given to the student: a. The student will not be allowed to continue in the clinical course until the matter is resolved. b. If the student withdraws, no further action will be taken. The student will receive a grade of F in the course. c. If the student elects to remain in the course, the process continues as outlined. 4. The case will be presented to the Department s Admission, Progression, and Retention (APR) Committee for progression review. The Committee will be chaired by a neutral (not currently teaching in the involved course) faculty for appeals cases. The student may elect to present his or her own case before the Committee by offering evidence and by calling witnesses. Witnesses must be present in the hearing room (or College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 67

must have submitted a written statement) and may remain only while making their statements. The Faculty may also present statements and witnesses. The Committee does not have the authority to require attendance or statements. a. Both parties have the right to seek advice from a USM student, an uninvolved instructor, a friend, or any person outside the University community. However, any advice given either party must be obtained prior to the beginning of the hearing or during a recess granted by the Committee chair. With the exception of witnesses (as above) only the student or involved faculty will speak to the Committee. b. After the involved individuals present their case, they will be dismissed from the hearing. c. The Department s APR committee will make a recommendation via a secret ballot. The recommendation will be one of two choices: 1. The student shall be withdrawn from the course and receive a grade of F or 2. The student should be allowed to return to the clinical course. 5. The recommendation will be given to the appropriate program director who will inform the student of the Committee s action. a. A written copy of the decision will be provided to the student. b. In the event of a negative recommendation, the student may elect to appeal to the Dean of the College of Nursing. 6. All of the documents submitted by both parties will be forwarded to the chair of the department by the program director. If an appeal is requested, the chair of the department will review the said materials and determine the action to be taken. The final decision regarding safe practice will be made by the Dean of the CON. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 68

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Subject: Academic Information Title of Policy: Non-Grade Related Grievance Number: CON1031 Effective Date: Supersedes: Approved Date: 4/20/09 Approved by: NFO Revision Date: Policy Area: Student Subject: Grievance 1. Rationale or background to policy: A grievance is defined as the claim of an individual student that there has been a violation, misinterpretation, or misapplication of a rule, policy or procedure. Student grievances may be either grade related or non-grade related. 2. Policy Statement: Non-grade related grievances will originate and resolution will be sought at the departmental level. 3. Procedures: Student Grievance Process: Step 1: Faculty member (if applicable) Step 2: Director of student s degree program (if applicable) Step 3: Department chair (if applicable) Step 4: Associate Dean of the College of Nursing Step 5: Dean of the College of Nursing For additional information regarding the grievance policy please refer to the University Student Handbook available via the USM website (www.usm.edu/student-handbook). College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 69

Policy Area: Student Title of Policy: Grade Review Effective Date: August 2014 Approved Date: Revision Date: COLLEGE OF NURSING Subject: Academic Information Number: CON1033 Supersedes: Approved by: 1. Rationale or background to policy: Students seeking a grade appeal will follow the procedure in the University Student Handbook. 2. Policy Statement The process of Grade Appeal begins with the student meeting with the professor about the grade, and continues up the administrative chain of command to the Department Chair, Dean and finally, the University Grade Appeals Committee. Grade appeals rely on evidence that the professor awarded the grade in question in an arbitrary and capricious manner. 3. Procedures: Undergraduate: Refer to Grade Review Policy area in the General Academic Information section of the Undergraduate Bulletin and Southern Miss Student Handbook. Graduate: Refer to Grade Review Policy area in the General Academic Information section of the Graduate Bulletin and Southern Miss Student Handbook. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 70

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Subject: Academic Information Title of Policy: Undergraduate Grading Scale Number: CON1035 Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: 4/5/05 Approved by: NFO Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: To give guidance to students. 2. Policy Statement The undergraduate Grading Scale for the College of Nursing is as follows: A 93-100 B 85-92 C 77-84 **Students must receive a C or better to progress in the program D 69-76 F 68% or below 3. Procedures: As stated within the policy statement. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 71

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Subject: Academic Information Title of Policy: Graduate Grading Scale Number: CON1037 Effective Date: August 2014 Approved Date: Revision Date: Supersedes: Approved by: 1. Rationale or background to policy: To give guidance to students. 2. Policy Statement The graduate Grading Scale for the College of Nursing is as follows: A 94-100 A- 90-93 B+ 87-89 B 84-86 B- 80-83 C+ 77-79 C 74-76 C- 70-73 D+ 67-69 D 60-66 F Less than 60% 3. Procedures: As stated within the policy statement. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 72

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Subject: Academic Information Title of Policy: Grade for Theory and Clinical Number: CON1039 Courses Effective Date: September 2014/January 2015 Supersedes: Approved Date: Revision Date: Approved by: 1. Rationale or background to policy: To offer guidance in how clinical and theory courses are graded. 2. Policy Statement: Undergraduate (generic BSN): Students will earn separate grades for co-requisite theory and clinical courses. These courses must be successfully completed within the same semester; therefore, students must enroll concurrently in the theory course and its co-requisite clinical course each semester until the student is successful in both courses within the same semester. Graduate and RN-BSN: A separate grade is awarded for theory and clinical courses. 3. Procedures: Undergraduate (generic BSN): Students will receive a separate grade for the theory course and the co-requisite clinical course based on the student s performance within the individual courses. In order to progress in the BSN program, a student must successfully complete both the theory and its co-requisite clinical course within the same semester. Faculty will provide students with written and/or verbal feedback regarding their progress throughout the semester as outlined in the evaluation portion of the theory and co-requisite clinical course syllabi. Students may request a meeting with faculty to discuss their progress at anytime during the semester. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 73

Policy Area: Student Title of Policy: Grade Rounding Effective Date: August 2014 Approved Date: 02/2012 Revision Date: COLLEGE OF NURSING Subject: Academic Information Number: CON1043 Supersedes: Approved by: NFO 1. Rationale or background to policy: To give students an understanding of how grades will be rounded in the College of Nursing 2. Policy Statement Final Course grade will be rounded. No individual test or assignment grades will be rounded. 3. Procedures: Example: Rounding to the nearest whole number will be applied in assigning grades. For example, 92.5 = 93 or A, and 92.4 = 92 or B for undergraduate courses. See report card example for scores which will be rounded. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 74

Policy Area: Student Title of Policy: Graduation Effective Date: August 2014 Approved Date: 02/2012 Revision Date: May 2015 COLLEGE OF NURSING Subject: Academic Information Number: CON1045 Supersedes: Approved by: NFO 1. Rationale or background to policy: All students are expected to file an application for degree one semester before the degree requirements are completed. 2. Policy Statement Each student has final responsibility to ascertain that he or she has complied with all applicable catalogue requirements for graduation. 3. Procedures: Consult the Academic Calendar (available online) for deadline dates. Undergraduate Students Gulf Park Hattiesburg Students in the VBSN Pathway may be awarded up to six (6) credit transfer hours after meeting transfer credit requirements upon admission to the BSN program: Graduate (MSN, DNP, and PhD) Students Complete application (available online) and submit to Adviser for processing. If the student does not graduate in the proposed semester on the Graduation Application Form, the student is responsible for completing the Graduation Deferment Form and submitting it to the Office of Graduate Studies and paying the associated College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 75

CHAPTER III: COURSE INFORMATION COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Undergraduate Subject: Course Information Title of Policy: Attendance and Clinical Continuation in the Program Effective Date: August 2014 Approved Date: Revision Date: Number: CON1047 Supersedes: Approved by: 1. Rationale or background to policy: The goal of the faculty is to provide each student enrolled in a Southern Miss nursing program with clinical learning experiences that will allow the student to meet the program objectives. 2. Policy Statement Clinical experiences may include evenings, nights, and/or weekends based upon facility, preceptor, and faculty availability. Clinical attendance is mandatory. A situation may arise that precludes the student from attending a clinical experience, e.g., illness, jury duty, etc. The student must notify the faculty member prior to the clinical experience. Based on the faculty member s evaluation, one of the following outcomes will occur: 1. a clinical make-up day(s) may be scheduled, 2. the situation or duration of the absence(s) may necessitate that the student withdraw(s) from the course because of inability to meet course objectives, or 3. the student may be excused. The student must submit a completed Clinical Continuation Form to the faculty member before returning to clinical. Please attach supporting documentation to the form, e.g., statement from health care provider or copy of jury summons. All absences and circumstances surrounding absences will be documented on the Clinical Evaluation Form by the faculty member. It is understood that the student exonerates the CON, the University, and the Clinical Facility from any responsibility for resulting complications. 3. Procedures: As stated in the policy statement. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 76

CLINICAL CONTINUATION FORM The University of Southern Mississippi College of Nursing Student Name: Date(s) of Absence: ID Number: Clinical Agency: Reason for Absence: Was formal health care sought? Yes No Explain: Faculty Recommendation: Faculty Signature/Date Disposition (limitations, further recommendations): NOTE: Please attach health provider s documentation of approval for readmission to the clinical area if applicable. Student should submit the original form to the Program Director and a copy to the clinical faculty. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 77

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Subject: Course Information Title of Policy: Alcohol Screening Policy Number: CON1051 Effective Date: Spring 2012 Supersedes: October 19, 2009 Approved Date: Approved by: NFO Revision Date: October 31, 2011 1. Rationale or background to policy: The College of Nursing at The University of Southern Mississippi believes that use of alcohol and/or drugs is detrimental to the physical and psychological well-being of nursing students and in turn, to the safety of their patients. 2. Policy Statement Students who consume alcohol are considered chemically impaired and cannot function responsibly in the clinical setting. Further, chemically impaired students pose a danger to themselves and their patients. When a faculty member or clinical site representative observes an undergraduate or graduate student exhibiting behavior indicative of chemical use or dependency the steps of the IMPAIRED NURSING STUDENT POLICY will be initiated. The faculty defines an undergraduate and graduate clinical nursing course as a combination of theory and clinical experiences. These two components are inseparable. Clinical nursing courses include theory and co-requisite lab/clinical courses and stand-alone clinical practica (e.g., preceptorship, clinical practica) in all undergraduate and graduate nursing programs of study. 3. Procedures: As stated in Policy Statement. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 78

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Subject: Course Information Title of Policy: Impaired Nursing Student Number: CON1059 Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: Approved by: Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: Practicing nursing while impaired from chemical/substance use, abuse, or dependency is a basis for dismissal from the College of Nursing. 2. Policy Statement: When a nursing faculty member or clinical site representative observes an undergraduate or graduate student exhibiting behavior indicative of chemical/substance use, abuse or dependency, the following procedure will be initiated: The faculty member and a colleague will confront the student with the behavior observed. 1. The faculty member will request an alcohol test or drug screen. The CON will assume the cost of the alcohol test or drug screen. 3. Procedures: A. If the student admits chemical/substance use, abuse or dependency and/or tests positive for alcohol or drugs: 1. The Program Director, the Department Chair, and the Associate Dean will be notified. 2. The student will be immediately suspended from the nursing program (but not from the University). 3. The College of Nursing Professional Conduct Committee will be convened by the Associate Dean within one week for a hearing and decision. 4. The accused student shall have the right to: A. Written notification of charges B. A summary of evidence to be presented C. Counsel D. An opportunity to present evidence E. Call witnesses F. A speedy and closed hearing 5. The Program Director assists the student in obtaining treatment by a chemical/substance dependency program. 6. The student may apply for probationary readmission to the nursing program upon completion of a chemical/substance dependency program approved by the CON. There will be no right to readmission whatsoever. The college may require any such applicant for readmission to meet the same standards as any current applicant for initial admission to the CON, as well as any additional standards and conditions the CON may impose related to assurance that the applicant is not chemically dependent, a chemical/substance abuser, or in College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 79

violation of any law. No person shall be eligible for readmission if that person is not eligible, under applicable laws, for licensure as a registered nurse due to the existence of a criminal record. 7. If probationary readmission is granted, after-care monitoring will be required for the duration of the student s course of study. 8. Failure to abide by after-care monitoring requirements and/or evidence of continued chemical/substance use, abuse or dependency shall be grounds for permanent dismissal from the CON. 9. After-Care Monitoring Requirements A. The student must present an after-care program approved by an attending physician and the CON. B. The following documentation must be submitted to the Program Director: 1. Monthly written progress reports from the after-care counselor or contact person with: a. Copies of all random drug screens obtained by after-care personnel. b. Any information regarding the student s cooperation in furnishing a urine or blood specimen for the purpose of having a drug screen performed. c. Any information regarding the student's cooperation in attending counseling sessions as stipulated in the after-care program. d. Any incidence of alcohol or drug use. 2. Copies of all prescriptions including not only current prescriptions but also refills. 3. Copies of all random urine and/or blood screens, a minimum of one a month. All screens must be performed by an agency approved by the CON. B. If the student denies chemical/substance/substance abuse or dependency and/or refuses to submit a specimen as requested: 1. The Program Director, the Department Chair, and the Associate Dean will be notified. 2. The student will be immediately suspended from the nursing program (not from the University) until such time that a hearing before the College of Nursing Professional Conduct Committee can be convened and a decision determined. (Committee will meet within one week). 3. The student shall have the right to: a. Written notification of charges b. A summary of evidence to be presented c. Counsel d. An opportunity to present evidence e. Call witnesses f. A speedy and closed hearing. 4. If at a later date, a student who has been dismissed for chemical/substance use, abuse or dependency wishes to reapply for probationary admission to the nursing program, the student must submit evidence of treatment by a CON approved chemical/substance dependency program and comply with the after-care monitoring requirements outlined above. There will be no right to readmission, whatsoever; the CON may require any such current applicant for readmission to meet the same standards as any current applicant for initial admission to the CON, as well as any additional standards and conditions the CON may impose related to assurance that the applicant is not chemically College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 80

dependent, a chemical/substance user or abuser, or in violation of any law. No person shall be eligible for readmission if that person is not eligible, under applicable laws, for licensure as a registered nurse due to the existence of a criminal record. C. All information related to suspected or validated cases of chemical/substance use, abuse or dependency will be kept by the Associate Deans in the CON. D. Within the CON, only the Dean, the Associate Deans, the Department Chair, the Program Director, and members of the Professional Conduct Committee will have access to this information. E. This information will not be released outside the CON without the student s written permission except to proper University Administration officials for the purposes of reviewing policy and procedure and possible litigation. F. This information will be kept in the office of the Associate Dean until such time as the student has made application for and passed the NCLEX (licensing exam) or for a period of five years. Then after licensure or five years, the information will be destroyed. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 81

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Undergraduate & Graduate Subject: Course Information Title of Policy: Routine and Controlled Substances Number: CON1053 Policy Effective Date: Spring 2012 Supersedes: Approved Date: Approved by: Revision Date: October 31, 2011 1. Rationale or background to policy: The College of Nursing at The University of Southern Mississippi believes that use of chemicals or controlled substances is detrimental to the physical and psychological wellbeing of nursing students, and in turn, to the safety of their patients. Therefore, every undergraduate and graduate student enrolled in a clinical nursing course is required to undergo a controlled substances screening test at least every twelve months. 2. Policy Statement The student is responsible for the following: 1. Scheduling the 11-point urine screening test at a local hospital or laboratory entity independent of The University of Southern Mississippi (USM). While the student may choose any lab entity independent of USM, a. Lab Test Depot is the recommended provider for the Hattiesburg campus b. CME is the recommended provider for the Gulf Coast campus. Controlled substances testing should be performed for, but not limited to, the presence of cannabinoids, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, propoxyphene, phencyclidine (PCP), methadone, methaqualone, MDMA (ecstasy), or metabolites of any such substance. 2. Notifying the laboratory entity that results of the drug screen must be mailed or faxed, 601-266-6144, directly by the agency to Assistant to the Dean for Academic Records & Advisement Student Services College of Nursing University of Southern Mississippi 118 College Drive #5095 Hattiesburg, MS 39406 3. Paying for the drug screening test and confirmation. 4. Results must be on file with the Associate Dean one month prior to the first day of the semester. Please note that results may take up to 2 weeks to reach the College. Students must plan accordingly. 5. A Drug test from your employer will be accepted as long as it meets the above criteria. No student will be allowed to continue in a clinical nursing course and/or associated health care agency until the results of the controlled substance screening test have been submitted to and are on file at the College of Nursing. If the results of the controlled substance screening test are positive for controlled substances, the student may not continue in the clinical nursing course and must withdraw from all clinical nursing courses. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 82

If a student refuses to submit to a routine controlled substance screen he/she will not be allowed to continue in a clinical nursing course and/or associated health care agencies. Any student with a confirmed positive controlled substance screening test will follow the guidelines in the Impaired Nurse Student Policy as outlined in the College of Nursing Student Handbook. The faculty defines an undergraduate and graduate clinical nursing course as a combination of theory and clinical experiences. These two components are inseparable. Clinical nursing courses include theory and corequisite lab/clinical courses and stand-alone clinical practicums (e.g., preceptorship, clinical practicums) in all undergraduate and graduate nursing programs of study. 3. Procedures: As stated in the Policy Statement College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 83

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Undergraduate Subject: Course Information Title of Policy: CON Criminal Background Check Number: CON1055 Effective Date: Fall 2009 Supersedes: Approved Date: 04/20/09 Approved by: NFO Revision Date: Policy Area: Student Undergraduate Subject: Theory and Clinical Courses 1. Rationale or background to policy: Mississippi House Bill 1077 requires criminal background checks for employees of healthcare organizations. Many healthcare agencies in turn require criminal background checks for nursing students engaged in clinical experiences in their organization. The Mississippi Board of Nursing also requires a criminal background check prior to initial licensure as a registered nurse. The University of Southern Mississippi, College of Nursing is contractually obliged to comply with requirements set forth by agencies utilized for student clinical experiences. Therefore, all nursing students enrolled in a clinical nursing course are required to submit to fingerprinting and a criminal background check before attending any clinical experience in any agency. The criminal background check and review will be conducted by one private vendor approved by the Dean of the College of Nursing. Background checks conducted by any vendor or agency that is not approved will not be accepted. Students will contract directly with the approved vendor and the student is responsible for all costs associated with the criminal background check. 2. Policy Statement The initial criminal background check will be required upon enrollment in the first clinical nursing course. The results of the background check will be honored for the duration of uninterrupted enrollment in the College of Nursing as long as the student has no disqualifying convictions while enrolled. A student who has a break in enrollment for a full semester or more will be required to submit to second background check upon enrollment in a clinical nursing course. If a student refuses to submit to a background check he/she will not be allowed to continue in any clinical nursing course and will therefore be unable to complete the plan of study required for completion of the nursing degree. The required criminal background check and vendor review will include, but is not limited to a review of: County of Residence Criminal Record Residence History National Healthcare Fraud & Abuse Scan National Sexual Offenders Index Each student must complete the nursing student disclosure and release form available from the private vendor. Results of the criminal background check and vendor review will be available to the Associate Dean and to clinical agencies as necessary to meet contractual obligations. Clinical agencies may deny student admission to their facility based upon the information in the background check and review. Any student who is denied access to a clinical facility based upon the results of the criminal background check will meet with either the Associate Dean as appropriate, to evaluate the background check and vendor review. If the charges are incompatible with eligibility for licensure as a registered nurse in the state of Mississippi, the student will be dismissed from the program. If the charges are not incompatible with eligibility for licensure as a registered nurse in the state of Mississippi, an attempt will be made to find comparable clinical placement for the student. If no clinical facility can be found that is willing to accept the student, the student will not be College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 84

able to complete the plan of study required for completion of the nursing degree and will need to withdraw from the nursing program. The faculty defines an undergraduate clinical nursing course as a combination of theory and clinical experiences. These two components are inseparable and include: Introduction to Clinical Nursing Practice and Introduction to Clinical Nursing Practice (NSG 321/321L); Health Promotion and Assessment and Health Promotion and Assessment Lab (NSG 333/333L); Chronic Conditions Across the Lifespan and Chronic Conditions Across the Lifespan Lab (NSG338/338L); Mental Health Maintenance and Restoration and Mental Health Maintenance and Restoration Lab (NSG 371/371L); Population Focused Nursing and Population Focused Nursing Lab (NSG 407/407L); Acute Conditions Across the Lifespan and Acute Conditions Across the Lifespan Lab (NSG 432/432L); Health Promotion and Maintenance In The Child Bearing Family and Health Promotion and Maintenance In The Child Bearing Family Lab (NSG 446/446L); and Complex Conditions Across the Lifespan and Complex Conditions Across the Lifespan Lab (NSG 472/472L). 3. Procedures: As stated in the policy statement. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 85

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student - Graduate Subject: Course Information Title of Policy: CON Criminal Background Check Number: CON1057 Effective Date: Fall 2009 Supersedes: Approved Date: 04/20/09 Approved by: NFO Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: Mississippi House Bill 1077 requires criminal background checks for employees of healthcare organizations. Many healthcare agencies in turn require criminal background checks for nursing students engaged in clinical experiences in their organization. The Mississippi Board of Nursing also requires a criminal background check prior to initial licensure as a registered nurse. The University of Southern Mississippi, College of Nursing is contractually obliged to comply with requirements set forth by agencies utilized for student clinical experiences. Therefore, all nursing students enrolled in a *clinical nursing course are required to submit to fingerprinting and a criminal background check before attending any clinical experience in any agency. The criminal background check and review will be conducted by one private vendor approved by the Dean of the College of Nursing. Background checks conducted by any vendor or agency that is not approved will not be accepted. Students will contract directly with the approved vendor and the student is responsible for all costs associated with the criminal background check. 2. Policy Statement The initial criminal background check will be required upon enrollment in the first clinical nursing course. The results of the background check will be honored for the duration of uninterrupted enrollment in the College of Nursing as long as the student has no disqualifying convictions while enrolled. A student who has a break in enrollment for a full semester or more will be required to submit to second background check upon enrollment in a clinical nursing course. If a student refuses to submit to a background check he/she will not be allowed to continue in any clinical nursing course and will therefore be unable to complete the plan of study required for completion of the nursing degree. The required criminal background check and vendor review will include, but is not limited to a review of: County of Residence Criminal Record Residence History National Healthcare Fraud & Abuse Scan National Sexual Offenders Index Each student must complete the nursing student disclosure and release form available from the private vendor. Results of the criminal background check and vendor review will be available to the Associate Dean and to clinical agencies as necessary to meet contractual obligations. Clinical agencies may deny student admission to their facility based upon the information in the background check and review. Any student who is denied access to a clinical facility based upon the results of the criminal background check will meet with either the Associate Dean as appropriate, to evaluate the background check and vendor review. If the charges are incompatible with eligibility for licensure as a registered nurse in the state of Mississippi, the student will be dismissed from the program. If the charges College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 86

are not incompatible with eligibility for licensure as a registered nurse in the state of Mississippi, an attempt will be made to find comparable clinical placement for the student. If no clinical facility can be found that is willing to accept the student, the student will not be able to complete the plan of study required for completion of the nursing degree and will need to withdraw from the nursing program. *The faculty defines a graduate clinical nursing course as a combination of theory and clinical experiences. These two components are inseparable and include: NSG 667/667L, NSG 668/668L, NSG669/664L, NSG 631/631L, NSG 635/635L, NSG 634L, NSG837, NSG839, NSG841, NSG843, NSG845, NSG847, NSG849, NSG 816. 3. Procedures: As stated in the policy statement. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 87

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Undergraduate & Graduate Subject: Course Information Title of Policy: Health and Professional Number: CON1061 Information Effective Date: Summer 2012 Supersedes: Approved Date: Approved by: NFO Revision Date: 2/27/2012 1. Rationale or background to policy: To provide students and clinical patients/staff protection from communicable diseases and safety. 2. Policy Statement All students are required to have the following health and professional information on file in the College of Nursing. 1. History and Physical form completed prior to beginning nursing course work (all programs) 2. MMR Refer to Admission to the University section of the Undergraduate Bulletin and Graduate Bulletin 3. Current tuberculosis (TB) skin test or QuantiFERON-G Test every 6 or 12 months (semi-annual testing is based on clinical facility requirements) throughout the duration of the program of study a. If positive for the first time, you must a) be evaluated for active tuberculosis by a health care provider or the local health department, b) follow their recommendations, and c) provide the College of Nursing with written clearance to proceed with attending classes and clinicals. b. If you have a history of positive skin tests or positive QuantiFERON-G Test, then you must a) have your health care provider complete the Positive TB Follow-up Form, and b) submit the completed form to the College of Nursing before attending classes and clinicals. 4. Current Tdap immunization (due every 10 years) 5. Hepatitis B Virus immunization or waiver 6. Evidence of immunity to varicella (see policy) 7. All nursing students must provide evidence of receiving an annual influenza vaccine by November 1st each fall semester unless contraindicated and until the end of the program of study. Students who decline influenza immunization must sign a waiver. 8. Current unrestricted RN license (RN-BSN and graduate students) 9. Current CPR Certification Health Provider Type throughout the duration of the program of study. CPR Certification from online provider will not be accepted for students without current RN license. 10. Criminal Background Check 11. Current Liability (Malpractice) Insurance Each student is charged a fee at the time of registration each semester for each clinical course to cover professional liability College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 88

insurance for that semester. Coverage is $1,000,000 per incident, $3,000,000 cumulative. 12. Signed Technical Standards Statement indicating that the student is able to meet the technical standards criteria with or without reasonable accommodations. 13. Routine alcohol and drug screening at least every 12 months 14. All students are required to maintain updated CON required documentation and provide a copy to Student Services in order to be compliant with the CON policies and to participate in clinical activities at any site including orientation. Documentation of TB testing (skin or lab) and Health Care Provider CPR must be current the entire semester and be received by the due date prior to the semester starting Due dates are: January 5 for Spring semester, May 5 for Summer semester, and August 5 for Fall semester. No documentation may expire during the semester. 15. Students will be dropped from clinical courses if documentation is not received by the due date and be reinstated into any open lab on an as available basis may be a different section. No student will be allowed to participate in clinical activities including orientation unless documentation has been received in Student Services. 3. Procedures: Students are informed upon acceptance to the program of requirements and due dates. Students not meeting requirements will not attend clinical. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 89

ADMISSION HISTORY AND PHYSICAL FORM Name The University of Southern Mississippi - College of Nursing HISTORY & PHYSICAL EXAMINATION Health History (Check if applicable & explain on reverse) Surgical History Medications Allergies Asthma Diabetes Heart Disease Hepatitis Hypertension Mental Illness Seizures Other illness DRUG ALLERGIES FOOD ALLERGIES ENVIRONMENTAL ALLERGIES LATEX ALLERGY General Height Weight Blood Pressure Pulse Examination Findings HEENT Neurological: Cranial Nerves II-XII_ Eyes: Sclerae Conjunctivae Pupils_ Visual Acuity /20 with or without correction? Ears: R Canal R TM L Canal L TM Conversational hearing intact_ Nose: Nares/Septum Sinuses_ Mouth/Throat: Mucosa Teeth Gums_ Pharynx Tonsils_ Neck: Thyroid:_ Lymph Nodes_ CHEST Cardiovascular: Rhythm Rate Murmur /gallop Respiratory: Rate_ Lungs (auscultation) Wheezing/crackles/ rhonchi_ ABDOMEN Gastrointestinal: Bowel sounds Organomegaly Genitourinary: CVA tenderness (bilateral)_ MUSCULOSKELETAL Musculoskeletal: Muscle strength- ext R L ; ext R L Joints: Ext R L ; Ext R L Note any swelling, redness, tenderness, deformity, or restricted ROM of joints. OTHER: Recommendation of NP or MD Approved for full participation in nursing program Approval contingent upon the following: Not approved for participation in nursing program Signature of NP or MD Date of Examination College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 90

Student Name The University of Southern Mississippi - College of Nursing IMMUNIZATION AND TB TEST RESULTS Provider TB Skin Test Results Date of Results or Results from QuantiFERON-G Test or Results from Chest x-ray Hepatitis B Tdap Vaccine 1 st dose date 2 nd dose date 3 rd dose date Hepatitis B Titer results and date Date of vaccine MMR 1 st dose date 2 nd dose date Varicella Vaccine 1 st dose date 2 nd dose date or Evidence of immunity College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 91

Positive TB follow-up Form This form will be used for College of Nursing faculty and students who have a positive TB test. NAME FACULTY/STUDENT POSITION EMPLOYMENT DATE / / ENTRY DATE IN CON Please respond to each listed symptoms by placing check mark ( ) in either the ( Yes ) or ( No ) space. Have you experienced the following symptoms recently or in the past year? YES NO A cough, if yes, is it: productive/ nonproductive Hemoptysis (coughing up blood) Chest Pains Weight loss (5 lbs. Or greater unexplained) Loss of appetite Difficulty breathing Healthcare provider signature Date Faculty/Student signature Date Date of previous chest radiograph: Recommendation: Chest radiograph indicated Y N Date ordered Follow up: If any of the above items have a yes, follow recommendation of TB Medical Consultant/Health Department. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 92

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Undergraduate and Graduate Subject: Course Information Title of Policy: Varicella Vaccine Upon Admission Number: CON1063 Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: October 15, 2007 Approved by: NFO Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: All undergraduate and graduate students admitted to the nursing programs are required to have a 2-dose varicella vaccine or provide evidence of immunity upon admission to the undergraduate nursing programs. 2. Policy Statement Evidence of immunity varicella in adults includes any of the following: 1. Documentation of 2 doses of varicella vaccine at least 4 weeks apart; 2. History of varicella based on diagnosis or verification of varicella by a health-care provider (for a patient reporting a history of or presenting with an atypical case, a mild case, or both, health care providers should seek either an epidemiologic link with a typical varicella case or evidence of laboratory confirmation, if it was performed at the time of acute illness; 3. History of herpes zoster based on health-care provider diagnosis; or 4. Laboratory evidence of immunity or laboratory confirmation of disease. 3. Procedures: As stated in Policy Statement. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 93

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Undergraduate and Graduate Subject: Course Information Title of Policy: TDaP Vaccine Number: CON1065 Effective Date: Spring 2010 Supersedes: Approved Date: October 19,20 Approved by: NFO Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: All undergraduate and graduate students in the College of Nursing are required to have a tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis vaccine to provide evidence of immunity. 2. Policy Statement All undergraduate and graduate nursing students must provide evidence of receiving the Tdap vaccine on admission to the College of Nursing and it must remain current until the end of the program of study. The immunization is valid for 10 years. 3. Procedures: None. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 94

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Undergraduate and Graduate Subject: Course Information Title of Policy: Influenza Vaccine Number: CON1067 Effective Date: Summer 2012 Supersedes: Approved Date: November 17, 2008 Approved by: NFO Revision Date: February 2, 2012 1. Rationale or background to policy: All undergraduate and graduate students in the College of Nursing are required to have an annual influenza vaccine. 2. Policy Statement All undergraduate and graduate nursing students must provide evidence of receiving an annual influenza vaccine by November 1 st each fall semester unless contraindicated and until the end of the program of study. Students who decline influenza immunization must sign a waiver. 3. Procedures: None. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 95

INFLUENZA VACCINATION WAIVER FORM I waive the requirement for influenza vaccination. I further absolve The University of Southern Mississippi, The USM College of Nursing, and all clinical agencies where I practice as a student from liability regarding influenza exposure. Signature: Date: Witness: College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 96

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Faculty/Student Undergraduate & Subject: Course Information Graduate Title of Policy: Confidentiality Agreement Number: CON1069 Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: Approved by: Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: Maintaining confidentiality regarding patients and patient care at the affiliated healthcare agencies used by The University of Southern Mississippi College of Nursing, faculty/staff employment records, and student healthcare records are of primary importance. 2. Policy Statement Faculty/staff will initiate and turn in completed forms annually during evaluation. The completed form is to be placed in employment file in The University of Southern Mississippi College of Nursing administrative office. 3. Procedure The completed form is to be placed in student's file in The University of Southern Mississippi College of Nursing administrative office. DUE ANNUALLY. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 97

CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT Maintaining confidentiality regarding patients and patient care at the affiliated healthcare agencies used by The University of Southern Mississippi College of Nursing, faculty/staff employment records, and student healthcare records are of primary importance. In addition to each agency policy, a federal law called the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) requires patient health information to be kept confidential. Additionally, patients and their families have a right to deal with their issues in a private and secure manner, trusting that their privacy will be maintained. In order to protect this right to confidentiality and to comply with federal and state laws, students, faculty and staff must agree to hold all information (including, but not limited to, patient names, their health information, and relevant agency information) gained through their employment, enrollment, clinical assignments or professional/research projects at any agency used by The University of Southern Mississippi College of Nursing in strictest confidence. Confidentiality includes, but is not limited to, not discussing patients or their health conditions with persons who do not have a need to know and not removing any documents with individually identifiable patient data from the agency. I also understand the terms of this Confidentiality Agreement, and I agree to abide by the above confidentiality requirements. I further understand that any breach of a patient's confidentiality may result in corrective action against me as described in The University of Southern Mississippi College of Nursing student and faculty/staff handbooks. Faculty/Staff Acknowledgement Faculty/Staff Name (print): Faculty/Staff Signature: Date: Student Acknowledgement Clinical Course Number/Name: Semester/Year: Student Name (print): Student Signature: Clinical Course Faculty Name (print): Clinical Course Faculty Signature: Date: College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 98

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Undergraduate and Graduate Subject: Course Information Title of Policy: Technical Standards Statement Number: CON1071 Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: Approved by: Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: The College of Nursing at The University of Southern Mississippi set as guidelines the following Technical Standards that are to be met with or without reasonable accommodations. 2. Policy Statement Student admitted to the College of Nursing should comply with the Technical Standards Statement. 3. Procedures: As stated in the Policy Statement. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 99

TECHNICAL STANDARDS STATEMENT 1. The ability to see, hear, touch, smell, maintain equilibrium, and distinguish colors (sensory perception) Obtain, use and interpret information from diagnostic maneuvers, (e.g. palpation, auscultation, percussion, etc.) and other diagnostic representation of physiological phenomena during the course of conducting a comprehensive physical (mental) assessment of a client consistently, quickly and accurately. Acquire information from written documents and computer information systems (including literature searches and data retrieval), identify information presented in images from paper, videos, transparencies, slides, graphic images and digital and analog representations Observe demonstrations and conduct return performances Observe the client accurately at a distance and close at hand, noting nonverbal as well as verbal signs Obtain accurate readings from diagnostic instruments Become aware of environmental alarms (e.g. fire alarms, monitors, smoke) quickly and consistently. 2. Communication ability (oral, writing, etc.) with accuracy, consistency, clarity and efficiency Acquire information from written documents and computer information systems (including literature searches and data retrieval), identify information presented in images from paper, videos, transparencies and slides Accurately elicit information via speech, hearing and observation, including a medical history and other information required to adequately and effectively evaluate a client s condition Communicate (oral and written) effectively and efficiently with faculty, clients, families and all members of the health care team about a client s condition as called for under the circumstances Communicate quickly, effectively and efficiently with oral and written English with all members of the health care team 3. Manual dexterity, gross and fine motor movements Directly perform procedures and interventions (e.g. Basic Life Support techniques, physical assessment) sufficient to provide safe and effective nursing care according to prescribed therapeutic regimens Practice in a safe manner and respond appropriately to emergencies and urgencies Practice standard precautions against contamination and cross contamination with infectious pathogens (e.g. wearing personal protective equipment; working with sharp objects and hazardous chemical; treating clients with infectious diseases) Execute motor movement reasonably required to provide general care College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 100

and emergency treatment to clients including moving and lifting. 4. Ability to learn, think critically, analyze, assess, solve problems, reach judgment (Conceptualization, integration and quantification) Acquire information from demonstrations and experiences in the basic and applied sciences, including but not limited to information conveyed through lecture, group seminar, small group activities and physical demonstrations Synthesize information to develop a plan of care Problem solve and think critically to judge which theory and/or strategy of assessment and intervention is most appropriate Utilize intellectual ability, exercise proper judgment, and timely and accurately complete responsibilities attendant to the delivery of care to clients Measure, calculate, analyze, and use numerical recognition quickly to problem solve in certain situations. 5. Emotional stability and ability to accept responsibility and accountability (behavioral, social skills, abilities and aptitude) Develop effective and appropriate relationships with clients, colleagues, coworkers and relevant others Adapt and function effectively under the various circumstances and rigors (including stress) which are inherent in the clinical practice of nursing Convey a sense of sensitivity, compassion and empathy with clients Integrity, honesty, concern for others, good interpersonal skill, interest and motivation are representative of emotional health Accept responsibility, accountability and ownership for own actions or role as an emotionally mature member of healthcare team * Items with bullets represent examples for each Technical Standard category and are not intended to be an exhausted list. Decisions related to retention in the nursing program will be made on a case by case basis since a part of the decision rests on the nature of the reasonable accommodations which will need to be made in order for the student to be successful once admitted. The student must meet the essential Technical Standards so that he or she will be able to perform in a reasonably independent manner. Once confirmed in the program, students must pass all courses at an acceptable level and master all essential clinical competencies regardless of the disability and reasonable accommodation. Students will be assessed continuously for their ability to meet technical standards. Procedures for obtaining accommodation: 1. Provide documented evidence of physical clearance by licensed primary care provider as requested on the CON history and physical, 2. Complete all referrals as indicated by the primary care provider on the history and physical and, College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 101

3. Submit to the CON any additional reports obtained from referrals; and, 4. Submit to the CON and the immediate instructor any instruction for emergent treatment and contact information for significant others References: Mississippi Board of Nursing: Nursing Practice Law and Rules and Regulations (9/1/01) American Association of Colleges of Nursing: Education Center Guidelines for Accommodating Students with Disabilities in Colleges of Nursing SUNY Upstate Medical University at Syracuse: CON s Technical Standards University of Michigan Medical College: Technical Standards University of Massachusetts Medical College: Technical Standards for UMMS Grand Valley State University: Technical Standards for the Master in Physician Assistant Studies I have reviewed the Technical Standards Statement and am able to meet these criteria with or without reasonable accommodation. In addition, I understand that if a student has a disability that qualifies under the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) and requires accommodations, he/she should contact the Office for Disability Accommodations (ODA) for information on appropriate policies and procedures. Disabilities covered by ADA may include learning, psychiatric, physical disabilities, or chronic health disorders. Students can contact ODA if they are not certain whether a medical condition/disability qualifies. Mailing address: 118 College Drive # 8586, Hattiesburg, MS 39406-0001; Voice Telephone: (601) 266-5024 or (228) 214-3232; TTY: 1-800-582-2233; Fax: (601) 266-6035. Print Name Signature Date College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 102

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Undergraduate and Graduate Subject: Course Information Title of Policy: Privacy Rule and HIPAA Number: CON1073 Requirements Effective Date: Spring 2012 Supersedes: Approved Date: 10/31/2011 Approved by: NFO Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: The purpose of this policy is to define and describe the Privacy Rule and HIPAA requirements. Undergraduate and graduate nursing students are required to observe these rules and requirements for protection of health information within the College of Nursing, the University, and our affiliated healthcare agencies. 2. Policy Statement Overview: The Standards of Privacy of Individually Identifiable Health Information ("Privacy Rule") established a set of national standards for the protection of certain health information. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services ("HHS") issued the Privacy Rule to implement the requirement of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 ("HIPAA"). The Privacy Rule standards address the use and disclosure of individuals' health information ("protected health information") by organizations ( covered entities ) subject to the Privacy Rule, as well as standards for individuals' privacy rights to understand and control how their health information is used. The entire Privacy Rule, as well as guidance and additional materials, may be found at http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/hipaa. Guidelines for Corrective Action: Protected health information (PHI) is confidential and protected from access, use, or disclosure except to authorize individuals requiring access to such information. Attempting to obtain or use, actually obtaining or using, or assisting others to obtain or use PHI, when unauthorized or improper, will result in counseling and/or corrective action up to and including dismissal from the nursing program or termination of employment at The College of Nursing. Definitions and Caveats: PHI = Protected health information; this includes all forms of patient-related data including demographic information Depending on the nature of the breach, violations at any level may result in more severe action (dismissal or termination) Levels I-III are considered to be without malicious intent; Level IV connotes malicious intent At Level IV, individuals may be subject to civil and/or criminal liability For any offense, a preliminary investigation will precede assignment of level of violation College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 103

Level of Examples Violation Level I Misdirected faxes, e-mails & mail. Failing to log-off or close or secure a computer with protected PHI displayed. Leaving copy of PHI in a non-secure area. Dictating or discussing PHI in a nonsecure area (lobby, hallway, cafeteria, or elevator). Failing to redact or de-identify patient information for operational/business uses. Level II Requesting another individual to inappropriately access patient information. Inappropriate sharing of ID/password with another classmate, colleague or encouraging sharing of ID/password that would allow access to protected health information. Level III Releasing or using aggregate patient data without affiliated healthcare agency approval for research, studies, publications, etc. Accessing or allowing access to PHI without having a legitimate reason. Giving an individual access to your electronic signature. Accessing patient information due to curiosity or concern, such as family member, friend, neighbor, co-worker, famous or public person, etc. Level IV Releasing or using data for personal gain. Compiling a mailing list to be sold for personal gain or for some personal use. Disclosure or abusive use of protected health information. Tampering with or unauthorized destruction of information. Minimum Disciplinary or Corrective Action After investigation, the incident may be presented to the Professional Conduct Committee and/or Admissions, Progression and Graduation committee for disciplinary action. The affiliated healthcare agency Privacy Officer may be notified of all incidents. After investigation, the incident may be presented to the Professional Conduct Committee and/or Admissions, Progression and Graduation committee for disciplinary action. The affiliated healthcare agency Privacy Officer may be notified of all incidents. After investigation, the incident will be presented to the Professional Conduct Committee and/or Admissions, Progression and Graduation committee for disciplinary action. The affiliated healthcare agency Privacy Officer will be notified of all incidents. After investigation, the incident will be presented to the Professional Conduct Committee and/or Admissions, Progression and Graduation committee for disciplinary action. The affiliated healthcare agency Privacy Officer will be notified of all incidents. 3. Procedures: College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 104

1. A complaint regarding a breach in patient privacy may be brought to the Professional Conduct Committee with the assurance that no retaliatory measures will be taken against the person bringing the complaint. 2. The Professional Conduct Committee will document the complaints received and their disposition and maintain the document in a locked, secured file. 3. Students who violate the protection of health information are subject to sanctions, which may include, but are not limited to: unit or course grade reduction; failure of course; suspension or dismissal from program. College of Nursing faculty and/or staff who violate the protection of health information are subject to sanctions, which may include, but are not limited to: counseling, reassignment, suspension, or termination. Additional sanctions may be imposed by the affiliated healthcare agency according to their policy if applicable. 4. All University of Southern Mississippi College of Nursing students enrolled in practicum courses for the first time will complete a training program regarding HIPAA regulations and policies during the first week of the academic semester. Each will be asked to sign a form indicating understanding of The University of Southern Mississippi College of Nursing policies and procedures related to HIPAA and the Confidentiality Statement. 5. If a breach in confidentiality occurs, the violator will complete a retraining program as soon as possible following the incident. 6. All students, faculty and staff will complete retraining within one month following a significant change in privacy practices. 7. All students must sign a University of Southern Mississippi College of Nursing Confidentiality Statement prior to accessing patient files in any agency used for clinical education. 8. All student documents related to patient assignments journals, care plans, papers, assignment sheets, etc. must be protected to assure privacy of the patient(s) information by de-identifying the health information. Clinical course faculty and the affiliated healthcare agency policies will guide the de-identification method to be used. 9. Students should maintain the de-identification of health information when communicating with faculty, one another, or any other entity through any means including electronic means. 10. Any documents submitted to faculty should contain no protected health information (PHI) or the information should be de-identified. For example: course papers, care plans, interview information, etc. 11. If protected health information is re-identified for any reason, it is deemed to be protected health information and is subject to the applicable privacy protections. The student is responsible for maintaining the security of the re-identified information. 12. Per the University of Southern Mississippi College of Nursing and Clinical Agency Identity Verification Policy, only students and clinical faculty wearing the approved clinical identification badges will be granted access to patient information by the clinical agency. 13. Student and Faculty IDs are to be worn in a visible location on the uniform, street clothing, or scrubs when representing The University of Southern Mississippi College of Nursing. The ID is not to be worn at any other time, such as during an off-clinical work setting. 14. There should be no disclosure of PHI of patients by University of Southern Mississippi College of Nursing students or faculty. 15. Students and faculty should consult the course faculty if a student has a question about PHI related to disclosures required by law, disclosures for public health activities, disclosures about victims of abuse, neglect or domestic violence; law enforcement College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 105

purposes, disclosures about decedents, disclosures for cadaver organ, eye, tissue donation, disclosures to avert a serious threat to health or safety, disclosures for specialized government functions, disclosures for workers compensation. 16. If documents containing PHI are in use by students or faculty in the clinical setting, the document(s) must be shielded so others may not see the information. If the person using the documents leaves the area, the documents must not be left in public view. Secure the documents according the affiliated clinical agency s policy and procedure. 17. If faxing, copying or printing documents containing PHI it is the user's responsibility to assure protection of the PHI. 18. Documents containing PHI should only be shredded by the person authorized to have the PHI. Related Procedure: HIPAA Regulations in Nursing Research and/or Professional Projects 1. Any student or faculty research or professional projects should maintain the protection of health information collected during the duration of the project by including no identifying patient information on project instruments. If a code is used to re-identify the participant information, the codebook must be maintained in a locked, secured file. If an informed consent document is signed, the documents should be maintained in a locked, secured file apart from any patient/subject information. Informed consent documents should be submitted to The University of Southern Mississippi College of Nursing Administrative Office at the end of the project. The documents will be stored according to Human Research guidelines. 2. In the event protected health information collected during a research project was disclosed, the student and the student's committee chairperson should report the disclosure to the Professional Conduct Committee. The Professional Conduct Committee will determine if a disclosure of PHI was made for 50 or more individuals involved in a research project. If so, an accounting of the disclosure should include the following: a. name of research activity b. a description of the project in plain language including the purpose for the research and selection of criteria for the records c. a description of the type of PHI disclosed d. the date or period of time of the disclosure e. name, address and phone number of the sponsor of the research f. the name of the researcher to whom the PHI was disclosed g. a statement that the PHI of the individual may or may not have been disclosed during the research activity. 3. If there were fewer than 50 individuals involved in the research, the Professional Conduct Committee must provide an accounting for every disclosure of PHI for each individual whose PHI was disclosed. In addition, if an individual involved in a research study of 50 or more individuals requests an accounting for the disclosure of PHI pertaining to the individual, the Professional Conduct Committee must make a reasonable attempt to satisfy this request. Notification to any affiliated healthcare agency s Privacy Officer will be performed and their policies regarding confidentiality breach will be followed as well. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 106

Related Procedure: Guidelines for Student Advisement in Breach of Confidentiality Policies Type of Offenses Process Corrective Action Notification I. Inadvertent or accidental breaches of confidentiality that may or may not result in the actual disclosure of patient information. Example: sending/faxing information to incorrect address. Discussion between clinical faculty and student. Re-education and/or process improvement. Verbal or written communication between clinical faculty and student only. Not placed on advisement file. II. Failure to follow existing policies governing patient confidentiality. Example: talking about patients in areas where others might overhear, failure to obtain consent to release information, failure to fulfill training requirements. III. Repeat Type I or Type II Offenses. Discussion between clinical faculty and student. Discussion between clinical faculty and student. May refer to Professional Conduct Committee to address corrective action. Re-education and/or process improvement. Re-education and process improvement. Disciplinary sanctions may include removal from clinical site, probation, or other disciplinary action. Verbal or written communication between clinical faculty and student only. Not placed on advisement file. Verbal and written communication between clinical faculty, student, and Professional Conduct Committee. Documentation in student advisement file. IV. Inappropriately accessing a patient s record without a legitimate need to know the information. Inappropriately sharing patient information through social media. Discussion between clinical faculty and student. May refer to Professional Conduct Committee to address corrective action. Re-education and process improvement. Disciplinary sanctions may include removal from clinical course, probation, or other corrective action. Verbal and written communication between clinical faculty, student, and Professional Conduct Committee. Documentation in student advisement file. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 107

V. Accessing and using patient information for personal gain or to harm another individual. Notification to Professional Conduct Committee; committee convenes to address corrective action. Corrective actions may include, but are not limited to: removal from clinical course, probation, suspension, expulsion. Verbal and written communication student and Professional Conduct Committee. Documentation in student advisement file in collaboration with Admissions, Progression, and Retention Committee. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 108

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Undergraduate and Graduate Subject: Course Information Title of Policy: Clinical Simulation Lab (CSL) Number: CON1075 Rules Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: Approved by: Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: To offer guidelines for use of the clinical simulation lab. 2. Policy Statement The following rules apply to all students and faculty: 1. NO FOOD OR DRINK IN THE LAB. This is your lab, so please help us to take care of it. This rule is to prevent foreign material from being introduced into expensive simulation equipment as well as for housekeeping purposes to prevent infestation with vermin and other creatures. If you are observed with a beverage or food in the lab, your instructor will be notified immediately. 2. RETURN ALL UNUSED SUPPLIES. You are to return any unused/unopened supplies to the stretcher, cart, counter or wherever designated before you leave the lab following class or any practice. No supplies are to be taken from the lab. 3. TURN OFF ALL EQUIPMENT BEFORE YOU LEAVE THE LAB. If you have used lights, equipment with batteries or lights, or simulators (instructors will usually take care of the simulators), make certain you have turned off the light/equipment before you leave the lab following class or any practice session. Simulators will not be used without an instructor or the lab coordinator present. 4. NO ITEMS ARE TO BE PLACED ON THE FLOOR OF THE LAB. There are no tables or extra chairs in the lab. The same rules for cleanliness apply in the CSL as in any acute/non-acute care healthcare environment. No soiled linen is to be placed on the overbed trays, IV poles, bedside tables or the floor; and the soiled linen is not to be left dangling outside the linen hamper designated for soiled linen. 5. CUBICLES ARE TO BE LEFT IN THEIR ORIGINAL ARRANGEMENT. If you find it necessary to move anything in the cubicle (chair, wastebasket, etc.), please move the item(s) back to their original location in the cubicle. There are to be no wrappers, paper, rubber bands, paperclips, etc. left on the floor in the lab. DO NOT USE THE BEDSIDE College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 109

TABLE DRAWERS FOR GARBAGE. If this is found following your lab class, your instructor will be notified. No coats, hats, sweaters are to be hung on IV poles. 6. REMAIN AWARE YOU ARE IN AN ACUTE CARE ENVIRONMENT WHEN YOU ARE IN THE CLINICAL SIMULATION LAB. When you enter the lab, please conduct yourself as if you are in such a healthcare environment. It is a lot of fun and a most pleasant experience. At no time will the human patient simulators be referred to as dolls or dummies. They are your patients: please treat them as such. DO NOT PLAY WITH, MOVE, OR REARRANGE ANY MANIKINS. 7. IF YOU WISH TO PRACTICE AFTER LAB CLASS HOURS, YOU MUST SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 110

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Undergraduate and Graduate Subject: Course Information Title of Policy: Property Loan Receipts Simulation Number: CON1077 Lab Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: Approved by: Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background for policy: To offer guidance to students, faculty and staff. 2. Policy Statement To transfer the University-owned (state) property from the area within the Learning Resource Center and/or the Simulation Lab to the individual removing the property item (loaning) to ensure accountability for all property. 3. Procedures Faculty and/or students who wish to check out equipment that has either an identification number or a USM number/barcode. The individual must sign a Property Loan Receipt (blank forms in sign-out book) which transfers responsibility for the equipment to them from the Learning Resource Center and/or the Simulation Lab. Make certain an accurate description and most importantly, the number, is written on the form. Ask the expected return date, write on the form. When the equipment is returned, the same Property Loan Receipt is signed by the individual with the return date. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 111

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Undergraduate and Graduate Subject: Course Information Title of Policy: Checking Out Theses and Number: CON1079 Dissertations Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: Approved by: Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: To offer guidance to students, faculty and staff. 2. Policy Statement The student can check out three theses and/or dissertations at one time for a period of three weeks. 3. Procedures The student must sign out each one with their name, title/author of thesis or dissertation, and the student s working phone numbers (2): cell, home or work, cell, etc.), and a complete current mailing address. Faculty will instruct student(s) re: the return date and the requirement for the student (s) to sign the material back in or be responsible if material(s) is/are missing. Faculty responsible for the Learning Resource Center will check the sign-out book weekly and report any theses or dissertations which have exceeded the three week check-out time to the Center Coordinator. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 112

CHAPTER IV: GENERAL POLICIES AND PROCESSES UNIVERSITY POLICIES ADDRESS CHANGE In the event of an address change, email address change or name change, the student must 1) provide written notification of the change to Nursing Student Services Office on your campus, 2) notify the Registrar s Office on your campus, and 3) if applicable, notify the Financial Aid Office on your campus. BOOKS Texts and reference works are available: o Gulf Park Campus Bookstore o Hattiesburg University Textbook Service (Barnes and Noble) CAREER SERVICES Undergraduate: Refer to Career Services area in the Student Life, University Facilities and Student Services section of the Undergraduate Bulletin. Graduate: Refer to Career Services area in the University Facilities and Student Services section of the Graduate Bulletin. DEAD WEEK (SR-07-04) Refer to Institutional Policy STUA-DS-017. www.usm.edu/institutional-policies/policy-stua-ds-017 DISABILITY ACCOMMODATION Undergraduate: Refer to Office for Disability Accommodations area in the Student Life, University Facilities and Student Services section of the Undergraduate Bulletin. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 113

Graduate: Refer to Office for Disability Accommodations area in the University Facilities and Student Services section of the Graduate Bulletin. FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT OF 1974 (FERPA) Undergraduate: Refer to General Information area in the Introduction section of the Undergraduate Bulletin. Graduate: Refer to Introduction area of the Graduate Bulletin. FEES: Undergraduate: Refer to Schedule of Fees and Special Fees and Expenses areas in the Student Expenses section of the Undergraduate Bulletin. Graduate: Refer to Schedule of Fees and Special Fees and Expenses areas the Student Expenses and Financial Aid Payment of Fees section of the Graduate Bulletin. FINANCIAL AID (INCLUDING SCHOLARSHIPS) Undergraduate: Refer to Student Financial Aid section of the Undergraduate Bulletin. Graduate: Refer to Financial Assistance for Graduate Students area in the Student Expenses and Financial Aid section of the Graduate Bulletin. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 114

FIREARMS AND WEAPONS Weapons are not allowed on University property or in clinical agencies used for clinical learning purposes. Please refer to the University policy STUA-RES-027 on firearms and other weapons. http://www.usm.edu/student-handbook/possession-firearms http://www.usm.edu/police/firearms-policy ORGANIZATIONS - GENERAL Undergraduate - General: Refer to Students Activities areas in the Student Life section of the Undergraduate Bulletin. Graduate - General: Refer to University Facilities and Student Services section of the Graduate Bulletin. PARKING Undergraduate: Refer to Automobiles on Campus area in the Student Life, University Facilities and Student Services section of the Undergraduate Bulletin. http://catalog.usm.edu/content.php?catoid=10&navoid=636#student_activities Graduate: Refer to Automobiles on Campus area in the University Facilities and Student Services section of the Graduate Bulletin. All Students: Students are required to comply with parking regulations at facilities used for clinical experiences. SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY Undergraduate: Refer to Sexual Harassment area in the Introduction section of the Undergraduate Bulletin. Graduate: Refer to Sexual Harassment area in the Introduction section of the Graduate Bulletin College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 115

SMOKING Smoking on the campus of The University of Southern Mississippi is limited to designated smoking areas. Smoking is prohibited in all indoor areas and outdoor areas that are shared in close proximity by the public. These outdoor areas include: building entrances, stadium seating areas, and university owned vehicles. Resident hall smoking floors are designated and smoking is prohibited other than on these floors. To view the university smoking policy and designated smoking areas go to http://www.usm.edu/parking/smoking-policy. SOUTHERN MISS REPORTING LINE Southern Miss has long maintained a strong commitment to our core values of integrity and ethical behavior. In order to maintain the highest standards of responsible behavior, the Southern Miss Hotline was established and activated. This initiative, in partnership with EthicsPoint, provides an easy way to discreetly and confidentially report activities that may involve criminal, unethical or otherwise inappropriate violations of University policies. The Southern Miss Hotline is operated 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. For information on how to file a secure report, go to http://www.usm.edu/institutional-effectiveness/violations-university-policies-reporting-hotline. STUDENT LIFE Undergraduate: Refer to Student Life section of the Undergraduate Bulletin. Graduate: Refer to University Facilities and Student Services section of the Graduate Bulletin. COLLEGE OF NURSING ABSENCES Undergraduate: Refer to course syllabus. Refer to Absences area in the General Academic Information section of the Undergraduate Bulletin. Graduate: Refer to course syllabus. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 116

AWARDS The following awards may be given: 1. The National Dean's List (certificate): This award is given by the CON and The National Dean's List office to recognize students who have excelled in their classes. This award is given twice a year (May/December) based on the following criteria: Criteria: BSN, RN-BSN student Top 10% from each graduating class based on highest overall GPA A list of graduating students with current overall GPA is obtained and the top 10% of each class is selected to receive the award. The names and addresses of these students are compiled into one list and forwarded to The National Dean's List office by March of each year to be included in the yearly National Dean's List Publication. 2. The National Collegiate Nursing Award (certificate): This award is given by the CoN and the US Achievement Academy to recognize students who excel in class and who demonstrate outstanding citizenship and leadership. This award is given twice a year (May/December) based on the following criteria: Criteria: BSN student SNA member or professional organization GPA of 3.0 Dependability, responsible, good citizenship, leadership skills Enthusiasm, positive attitude, spirit of cooperation Written instructor s recommendation Nominations can be by self, other students or instructors. Written documentation verifying eligibility will be turned into the committee. GPA's are verified with Student Services and the committee selects the recipients. The names and addresses of these students are compiled into one list and forwarded to the US Achievement Academy by March of each year to be included in the USAA yearbook, the National Collegiate Nursing Awards. 3. Bates-Sisemore Excellence in Maternal-Child Nursing Award: (Plaque) This undergraduate award is given in honor of Professor Lucy Bates and Professor Mary Sisemore in recognition of their years of outstanding service at the University of Southern Mississippi, College of Nursing in the promotion of maternal and child health. The amount of the award is $150.00, to be awarded twice yearly, in May and December. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 117

Criteria: BSN students who have completed the maternal or child health course and are in good standing in other courses Hattiesburg campus only 2.5 minimum GPA in nurses courses 3.0 GPA in maternal or child health nursing 500 word essay detailing the applicant s career plans and interest in maternal or child health nursing, to be submitted to maternal child nursing faculty by March 15 th for May/October 15 th for December graduation through the Coordinator of Student Services Recommendation from the course faculty in maternal child health nursing on the Hattiesburg campus Recipient's name and essay must be mailed to Professor Bates upon selection. Lucy Bates 38 Elks Lake Road Hattiesburg, MS 39401 The recipient is encouraged to send a written thank-you to the donors of the award: Drs. Karen and Joel Christopher Lundy, 89 James Switzer Road, Purvis, MS 39475 4. Elizabeth C. Harkins Award (Plaque): This award is named after the founder of the nursing program at USM, Sister Elizabeth C. Harkins. This award is provided to recognize students who have demonstrated outstanding nursing scholarship. One Harkins Award is given for each of the following groups in May and December: Criteria: 1 BSN student from each campus 1RN-BSN student (Approved, March 2012) Highest nursing GPA + Highest overall GPA, if needed (Overall GPA all courses required for the nursing degree) The Associate Deans will form a committee of faculty from each of the three campuses will be responsible for reviewing graduating seniors GPA's from their respective campuses to obtain the list of potential recipients for the Harkins Award. The faculty members will vote to choose the award recipients. 5. Jerri Laube Morgan Award (plaque): This award is named in honor of Dr. Jerri Laube Morgan who was previously a Dean at the CoN. This award is presented twice a year in May/December to one generic BSN student based on the following criteria: Criteria: Academically talented, non-traditional undergraduate (BSN only) student (over age 25) College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 118

GPA of 3.25 or greater on all course work for the nursing program Family/multiple responsibilities Active in community service such as scouting, blood drives, funding for health related causes The criteria will be posted for graduating seniors review and they will nominate themselves or others from their class along with documentation of how the nominee meets the stated criteria. The members of an NFC-appointed Committee will then vote on the recipient of the award. 6. Spirit of Nursing Award (Plaque): This award was originally established by the US Army to recognize students who exemplify the Spirit of Nursing in practice. This award is given twice a year (May/December) by the CoN and the US Army based on the following criteria: Criteria: BSN student Typed essay, one double-spaced page, on the topic How is the Spirit of Nursing evident in your practice of nursing? Students must submit their essay to a committee who will select the recipient. The recipient will be required to complete the application form of the US Army in order to compete for the National Award. Although this award is given by the CoN twice a year, only one recipient s name can be sent forward once a year, by March 1 st to compete for the National Award. The committee will determine the best candidate from the recipients of the award and will forward the appropriate information to the US Army by March 1 st of each year. (See form.) 7. Nursing Eagle Award (Plaque): The Nursing Eagle Award is presented twice a year in May/December to a Hattiesburg and a Gulf Park student based on the following criteria: Criteria: BSN student Demonstrates an awareness of professional/social responsibilities Demonstrates qualities of leadership Makes significant contributions to community service, student organizations, and class activities Students from each graduating class will submit nominations for this award to their faculty advisor with documentation of how the nominee meets the criteria. The nominating student will write a letter of recommendation for the nominee. The student will obtain a recommendation from a faculty member, if nominating himself/herself. The committee will then vote on the recipient. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 119

8. The Art & Heart of Nursing Award: This award was established by the USM-Gulf Park, College of Nursing, Class of 2006, in order to honor a graduating senior or seniors each year that exhibits excellence in what is called the art and heart of nursing. The art and heart of nursing is exhibited by a student: who's primary purpose is to nurture not only their patients but fellow nursing students towards the best within themselves who is consistently compassionate, empathetic, and respectful of other students, patients, and faculty who provides nursing care that not only honors the body, but the mind, heart and spirit of each patient as well who empowers and encourages fellow students in their nursing career who is committed to not only healing but supporting their patients who consistently provides the best possible care to each patient regardless of race, creed, religion, socioeconomic status, or moral beliefs who is the epitome of the patient advocate who gives the extra special effort in caring for each and every patient Nominations for this award will be made by any member of the senior class or College of Nursing faculty at the same time each year when all other nursing awards are being nominated. Nominations must be submitted in writing or via email to the Art & Heart of Nursing Award committee, who will then prepare a ballot with the top 5 nominations for voting. The Art & Heart committee may devise nomination ballots to be used if they wish. The ballots with the top 5 nominations shall be presented to all senior class members and College of Nursing faculty for voting NOT LESS THAN one month prior to graduation. The top vote winner(s) shall be the recipients of the award. If the senior class members and College of Nursing Faculty feel that more than one member of the senior class is deserving of this award then the award may be given to the top two vote winners. Ballots will be collected by the Art & Heart of Nursing Award committee and counted and a winner or winners will be determined. The top 5 nominees will all receive certificates acknowledging their achievement. The winner or winners of this award will be presented with a certificate and recognized at graduation or a senior recognition ceremony and their name(s) will be added to the Art & Heart of Nursing plaque that shall hang in the USM Gulf Park, College of Nursing. 9. Gerry Cadenhead Award (Plaque): This award is named in honor of Dr. Gerry Cadenhead who was previously a Dean at the CoN. This award is presented twice a year to a graduate student based on the following criteria: MSN student Is a member of and demonstrates leadership in a professional nursing organization Involved in the community and in nursing Conveys a professional image College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 120

Is an innovative change agent as a nurse The recipient will be nominated by the Graduate Committee & recommendation of faculty MSN Award (Plaque): This award is presented to a graduating MSN student based upon the following criteria: GPA 3.75 or higher Evidence of outstanding coursework Evidence of expertise in the clinical setting Contribution to professional nursing organization(s) The recipient will be nominated by the Graduate Committee & recommendation of faculty DNP Award (Plaque): This award is presented to a graduating DNP student based upon the following criteria: GPA 3.75 or higher Demonstration of translation of research into practice with resultant impact on the health of patient populations Contribution to professional nursing organization(s) The recipient will be nominated by the Graduate Committee & recommendation of faculty PhD Award (Plaque): This award is presented to a graduating PhD student based upon the following criteria: GPA 3.75 or higher Demonstrates outstanding scholarship throughout doctoral coursework and dissertation contributing to nursing knowledge though scientific inquiry and theory development Contribution to professional nursing organization(s) The recipient will be nominated by the Graduate Committee & recommendation of faculty. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 121

BULLETIN BOARD COMMUNICATION Flyers, posters, notices and bulletins may be posted only after obtaining emailed or written approval from the Assistant to the Dean for Operations. COMMUNICATION WITH FACULTY All faculty members have office telephones as well as e-mail addresses by which students may reach them. Refer to the USM Directory for phone numbers and email addresses (www.usm.edu). If faculty members are not in their offices, students may leave a message with faculty voice mail or with the Department Administrative Assistants: Department of Collaborative Nursing Practice 601-266-5288 http://www.usm.edu/nursing/faculty-information Department of Advance Practice 601-266-5462 http://www.usm.edu/nursing/faculty-information-0 Department of Systems Leadership/Health Outcomes 601-266-5462 http://www.usm.edu/nursing/faculty-information-1 Gulf Park Campus Administrative Assistant 228-865-4517 TRANSPORATION http://www.usm.edu/gulfcoast/college-nursing Each student is responsible for his/her own transportation to and from clinical facilities and all planned field trips. Students are required to register automobiles with the Department of Campus Security and to carry automobile liability insurance as required by within the State of Mississippi. Students must adhere to all campus and clinical agency parking and traffic regulations. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 122

C. COLLEGE OF NURSING POLICIES COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Undergraduate & Graduate Subject: General Policies Title of Policy: Personal Phone Use Number: CON1087 Effective Date: Spring 2012 Supersedes: Approved Date: 10/31/11 Approved by: NFO Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: The purpose of this policy is to describe acceptable use of personal telephone/pager, smart-phone and computing devices in the classroom and in clinical settings. This policy applies to undergraduate, graduate students, and clinical faculty. 2. Policy Statement Classroom Policy: In the classroom setting, instructors will outline their personal preferences regarding telephone/pagers, smart-phones, and computing devices for use during class lecture time. Students are encouraged to turn off or silence these devices during class to prevent noise interruptions. For examination purposes, instructors prohibit the use of these devices and prefer students to use standard, non-memory capable, simple functioning calculators. Students must ask permission from the instructor and other students in the classroom setting prior to audio-visual recording of the class session. Students must ask permission from the instructor before photographing or videoing any class-related materials. Student classmates and the instructor(s) can maintain the right to refuse being audio-visually recorded. Clinical: Personal telephones, pagers and other radio-frequency devices tend to hinder job performance and interfere with electrical diagnostic, monitoring, treatment and lab equipment. For this reason, use of personal telephones/pagers, smart-phones and other computing devices are restricted during clinical time and in patient care areas. Audio-visual recording (photography, videoing, audio-recording) is strictly prohibited during clinical while on the premises of the clinical agency. Instructors will guide students in providing instructions in case of emergency. 1. Unless otherwise instructed, your personal telephone and pager must remain in "off" mode when you are performing clinical work in the agency setting. 2. Students may use personal telephones/pagers, smart-phones or computing devices when on an authorized break and not performing clinical work. 3. Use of personal electronic devices is restricted to areas recognized as public access areas (e.g., entrance and exit lobbies, cafeterias). 4. Students and clinical faculty who wish to use personal computing devices (e.g., smartphone or tablet computer) for clinical references must abide by the clinical agency s College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 123

policy regarding their use in or near clinical care areas. 5. Audio-visual recording (photography, videoing, audio-recording) is strictly prohibited in patient care areas. Most clinical facilities discourage personal smart-phone and computing device use and mandate use of clinical references through their internal network (computer or references) using approved information sources. The safety and well-being of our patients depends on your full cooperation. Failure to adhere to this rule may subject violators to disciplinary action including but not limited to: unsatisfactory rating on clinical evaluation, dismissal from the clinical setting, additional penalties if confidentiality was breached and review by the College of Nursing Professional Conduct Committee. 6. The College of Nursing, faculty and students are required to adhere to all policies and procedures of the affiliated clinical agencies, including the policy on personal cell phone use and other electronic devices. Policies and procedures of some affiliated clinical agencies may be more restrictive in their expectations than is outlined in this policy. 7. Electronic clinical resources may be required for nursing students use. Guidelines governing these requirements will be provided by nursing faculty within their specific course(s). College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 124

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Undergraduate and Graduate Subject: General Policies Title of Policy: Computer Requirements Number: CON1089 Effective Date: Spring 2012 Supersedes: Approved Date: 10/31/11 Approved by: NFO Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: To provide guidance on required student technology. 2. Policy Statement It is required that students purchase their own personal laptop computer at the beginning of their course of study. Laptop computers are required for students to bring and use on campus for access to class required computing programs (e.g., electronic health record, online examinations, learning management system). Specifications (*) for a computer should follow current published recommendations. Contact the USM Help Desk 601-266-HELP (4357) or email helpdesk@usm.edu for specifications. 3. Procedures: a. Students may be eligible for financial aid assistance for the purchase of computing requirements. Contact the financial aid office. b. Complete a Request on SOAR: Computer Revision Request Applications are processed online through SOAR. c. You will need to navigate the following path once you have logged in to SOAR: Self Service > Student Center > Finances > Revise My Financial Aid. d. Students are responsible for ensuring that their laptops meet all USM specifications for compatibility e. Specifications (*) for a computer should follow current USM published recommendations. Contact the USM Help Desk 601-266-HELP (4357) or email helpdesk@usm.edu for specifications. f. *Wireless internet connectivity required g. *Additional software may be required in specific courses College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 125

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Undergraduate & Graduate Subject: General Policies Title of Policy: Incident Report Number: CON1093 Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: Approved by: Revision Date: 1. Rational or background to policy: To offer guidance to students, faculty and staff. 2. Policy Statement In case of an incident involving injury, damage, or having potential impact on the health of any person (faculty, staff, or others), an anecdotal description of the incident should be completed by any person knowledgeable about the incident. Complete the Incident Report Form and submit it to the Associate Director of the College of Nursing. 3. Procedure Clinical setting: Upon observing a reportable incident, the reporter will: a. Follow the agency guidelines and complete the appropriate agency form in collaboration with clinical instructor and agency personnel. b. Report the Incident to the Director of the student s program, the Chair of the Department and the Associate Dean of the CON. c. Complete the CON Incident Report Form and submit it to The Department Chair. d. Copy report to the Program Director, Department Chair, Associate Dean of the CON, and the student s file. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 126

INCIDENT REPORT FORM The University of Southern Mississippi College of Nursing Incident Report Form Date(s) of Incident: Date of Report: Place Incident Occurred: Person Involved in the Incident: If Student, Name: ID Number: Describe the Incident: INITIAL Action(s), such as medical care, etc.: Describe Follow-up action(s), such as medical care, etc.: Disposition (further recommendations): Signature of Reporter Date Signature of Department Chair Date Send original to the Department Chair: The University of Southern Mississippi College of Nursing 118 College Drive #5095 Hattiesburg, MS 39406-5095 College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 127

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Undergraduate & Graduate Subject: General Policies Title of Policy: Social Media Number: CON1097 Effective Date: Spring 2012 Supersedes: Approved Date: 10/31/11 Approved by: NFO Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: The purpose of this policy is to define and describe acceptable use of social media within the College of Nursing. 2. Policy Statement Social media may be defined and described as sharing information through social networks and the Internet for rapid knowledge exchange and dissemination among many people. Nurses, nursing students, and nursing faculty (referred to collectively as nurses ) have a professional obligation to understand the nature, benefits, and consequences of participating in social networking of all types. Nurses must be aware that social networking venues are shared by their patients and colleagues. Unintended consequences of social media use can breach a patient s privacy, damage a patient s trust in the individual nurse and the profession, and further damage a nurse s professional and personal future. Employers and educational institutions may also monitor social networking sites and make judgments, positive or negative, about a nurse s professional suitability. Sharing patient information, even with names removed, may be enough to trigger a HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) violation and its associated penalties. Principles for Social Networking 1. Nurses must not transmit or place online individually identifiable patient information. Nurses must know their legal and ethical responsibilities, as well as their own organization s policies, regarding their responsibility to protect patient privacy, whether online or offline. Merely removing someone s name (or face, in the instance of images) from a communication does not necessarily protect that person s identity. Under federal law (HIPAA), protected individually identifiable information includes health information that identifies the individual or can reasonably be used to identify the individual, in any form (oral, written, or otherwise) that relates to the past, present, or future physical or mental health of an individual. 2. Nurses who interact with patients on social media must observe ethically prescribed patient nurse professional boundaries. The precepts guiding nurses in these matters are no different online than in person. 3. Nurses should evaluate all their postings with the understanding that a patient, colleague, educational institution, or employer could potentially view those postings. Online content and behavior has the potential to either enhance or undermine not only the individual nurse s career, but also the nursing profession. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 128

4. Nurses should take advantage of privacy settings available on many social networking sites in their personal online activities and seek to separate their online personal and professional sites and information. Use of privacy settings and separation of personal and professional information online does not guarantee, however, that information will not be repeated in less protected forums. 5. As the patient s advocate, nurses have an ethical obligation to take appropriate action regarding instances of questionable healthcare delivery at an individual or systems level that reflect incompetent, unethical, illegal, or impaired practice. Nurses who view social media content posted by a colleague that violates ethical or legal standards should first bring the questionable content to the attention of the colleague so that the individual can take appropriate action. If the posting could threaten a patient s health, welfare, or right to privacy regarding health information, the nurse has the obligation to report the matter to a supervisor or designated person within the institution or entity for follow-up. If the questionable practice is not addressed in the employment setting and seriously jeopardizes the patient s safety and well-being, the nurse may need to report the problem to external authorities. Accurate reporting and factual documentation, not merely opinion, should always support such responsible actions. 6. Nurses are encouraged to participate in the development of policies and procedures in their institutions and organizations for handling reports of online conduct that may raise legal concerns or be professionally unethical. Such official channels can protect the rights of those participating and can offer remedial action for the patient, while offering fairness, support, and non-punitive correction and training for a nurse s inadvertent mistakes. The College of Nursing acknowledges and approves provisional guidelines for social media use as endorsed by The University of Southern Mississippi (10-17-11). http://www.usm.edu/provost/guidelines-instructional-use-social-media-usm Reference: American Nurses Association (ANA), (September, 2011). ANA s Principles for Social Networking and the Nurse: Guidance for Registered Nurses. American Nurses Association, Silver Spring, Maryland. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 129

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Undergraduate & Graduate Subject: General Policies Title of Policy: Standard Precautions Number: CON1099 Effective Date: Spring 2012 Supersedes: Approved Date: 10/31/11 Approved by: NFO Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: To offer guidelines to students on OSHA standards precautions. 2. Policy Statement Nursing professionals have a responsibility to use standard precautions in all instances where there might be a risk to exposure to HIV, Hepatitis B, and/or other blood-borne pathogens. CDC guidelines are available at: (http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/bbp/universal.html) 3. Procedures The procedures utilizing the OSHA guidelines include: (https://www.osha.gov/sltc/etools/hospital/hazards/bbp/bbp.html) 1. Treat all biological material as potentially infective. 2. Wear gloves while handling potentially contaminated bodily fluids (HIV, HBV, or other blood-borne pathogens). 3. Wash hands after removing gloves 4. Wash hands immediately if they become contaminated with blood or body fluids. 5. Use caution with self and others while using needles, angiocaths, and other skin-piercing implements. 6. Dispose of skin-piercing implements and glass in the closest puncture-resistant containers without touching the sharps. 7. Do not recap non-sterile needles. 8. Dispose of all materials which are potentially contaminated with bodily fluids in biohazardous containers. 9. Dispose of all potentially contaminated bodily fluids following the agency policies. 10. Attach warning label to all specimens from known hepatitis and other isolated patients. 11. Handle all blood and blood products wearing gloves. 12. If eye contamination is possible then so is mouth and nose, use eye protection and mask. 13. Report any contamination to skin or mucous membranes, including the specific situation Following the policies of the clinical site and the CON College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 130

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Undergraduate & Graduate Subject: General Policies Title of Policy: Uniform BSN Uniform Dress Code Number: CON1101 Effective Date: Spring 2012 Supersedes: Approved Date: 11/21/11 Approved by: NFO Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: To provide specific guidelines in relation to uniform regulations and dress code requirements for students in the Undergraduate BSN nursing program. 2. Policy Statement The nursing uniform has both practical and symbolic significance. It should be worn for clinical experience, and should not be worn as street dress. One purpose of the uniform is to minimize the transfer of organisms between the clinical unit and the outside. A second purpose of the uniform is to identify the wearer as a nursing student. For this reason, the uniform should not be worn any place which would reflect on the character of the individual identified as a nursing student, and by association, on the profession of nursing or the CON or University. The uniform and dress code policies will meet regional, state, and national patient care standards and accreditation regulations. Appropriate casual ( street ) clothes must be worn when uniforms are not required in attendance to scheduled classes. Faculty members have the right to prohibit any style or article of dress they deem unprofessional, (e.g., ripped clothing, tank tops, halter tops, or low-cut necklines, T-shirts imprinted with unprofessional logos or slogans). Professional dress is considered a version of uniform dress and may be required on occasion as directed by nursing faculty for on and off-campus teaching/learning experiences, including preclinical visits to affiliated healthcare agencies. Nursing faculty will set and enforce uniform and dress code policies specific to their courses and affiliated healthcare agencies standards. Students engaged in laboratory experiences must comply with the CON uniform/dress code. Students not in compliance with the dress code may be dismissed from the clinical unit and given an unsatisfactory clinical grade. DEFINITIONS: Full clinical uniform consists of: College of Nursing uniform: approved style black pants or skirt and black top with CON embroidered patch on left upper sleeve plus gold fabric bands sewn to bottom edge of short sleeve tops. Uniform and lab coat styles are gender-specific. Style and cut of clinical uniform shall be straight or flared leg and may be worn with or without a cargo pocket. The uniform pant shall sit-at/above the waistline (no low-cut or hip huggers). Maternity-style uniforms may be worn and must adhere to same clinical standards as described. Alternate clinical uniform as described and assigned by clinical faculty and affiliated agency. Specific style and color requirements will be described in the course syllabus. White shoes all leather, closed heel and toe (e.g., no clogs) in good condition; clean and College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 131

polished. White, leather athletic shoes are allowed; manufacturer logo may be outlined in a neutral color (e.g., gray, black, or navy). Plain white pantyhose or white socks; socks must cover ankle top (e.g., crew style). Name tag: first and last name- no nicknames. Approved style, color, and size. Recommend purchasing two (2) name tags: one to wear on uniform and one to wear on outer lab coat. CON photo identification badge: worn on outermost garment layer. Bandage scissors. Stethoscope with bell and diaphragm. Penlight. Hemostats (optional). Watch with second hand. Watch band may be yellow or silver toned metal, or solid white or black leather. Watch face and watch band must be plain without metal or stone adornments. Professional dress consists of: Business casual dress clothes: conservatively styled slacks/skirts, tops/shirts or dresses. No denim jeans, skirts, or jackets. Closed heel and toe style business shoes. Recommend rubber soles with low heels. Pantyhose or knee high hose as appropriate. Socks that cover ankle (e.g., crew style). No cropped or Capri length pants. Pants must have tailored, length-appropriate hem, without frays. No baseball caps or hooded garments. No sunglasses while inside the building. Blue jeans and shorts are not considered appropriate dress for professional students working or collecting information in the clinical area. Name tag (described in full uniform). Photo identification badge (described in full uniform). Lab coat (described in full uniform). Black ink pen. Additional equipment or dress components as described by specific course requirements and faculty. Uniform and Professional Dress Regulations 1. The full uniform or lab coat over professional dress clothes is to be worn when collecting data in an agency as directed by your clinical faculty. 2. The name tag and CON photo ID should be clearly visible at all times. 3. Professional dress is expected when the lab coat is worn. 4. No jewelry with the following exceptions: a. One (1) wedding band (metal without stones). b. One pair of studded (post) earrings: solid and round in shape without decoration [gold, silver, white (pearl) or clear stone] under 4 mm in lower most piercing of both ear lobes (female students only). c. No other body piercing should be visible; facial piercings are not permitted. No tongue piercings. d. No necklaces. Exclusion: medical alert bracelets or necklaces may be worn. Medical alert necklaces should be worn underneath the uniform. 5. It is expected that all students maintain clean and neat uniforms and/or professional dress (clean, wrinkle-free, of appropriate length and hemmed). Dresses and skirts shall be no more than 2 inches above the knee. 6. Visible tattoos, whether permanent or temporary, will be kept covered at all times. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 132

7. Hair must be clean, secured, in a neat and simple style, off the collar and out of the eyes. Extreme, eccentric, or trendy haircuts or hairstyles are not authorized. Designs cut into the hair are prohibited. If students use dyes, tints, or bleaches, they must choose those that result in natural hair colors. Colors that detract from a professional nursing appearance are prohibited. Therefore, students should avoid using colors that result in an extreme appearance. Hair color must be a naturally found human hair color. a. Females will ensure their hair is neatly groomed, that the length and bulk of the hair are not excessive, and that the hair does not present a ragged, unkempt, or extreme appearance. Females may wear braids and cornrows as long as the braided style is conservative, the braids and cornrows lie snugly on the head, and any hair-holding devices comply with the standards below. Hair will not fall over the eyebrows or extend below the bottom edge of the collar at any time during clinical activities. Barrettes, hair clips or pins shall be minimal and match hair tone/color. Hair, including braids, will be neatly and inconspicuously fastened or pinned, so no free-hanging hair is visible. Extensions, weaves, wigs, and hairpieces are authorized; however, these additions must have the same general appearance as the individual s natural hair and meet grooming standards as described. b. Males will keep their face 100% clean-shaven or with neatly groomed facial hair when in uniform or in professional dress on clinical duty. Hair will not fall over the eyebrows or extend below the bottom edge of the collar at any time during clinical activities. Mustaches are permitted; if worn, males will keep mustaches neatly trimmed, tapered, and tidy. Mustaches will not present a chopped off or bushy appearance, and no portion of the mustache will cover the upper lip line or extend sideways beyond a vertical line drawn upward from the corners of the mouth. Beard growth if present will not exceed 1/4 inch and be kept trimmed and shaped. Facial hair growth shall not be shaped into goatees. Male students are discouraged from wearing beards/mustaches intermittently (e.g., starting and stopping new facial hair growth) throughout the clinical rotation. Males will keep sideburns neatly trimmed. Sideburns may not be flared; the base of the sideburn will be a cleanshaven, horizontal line. Sideburns will not extend below the lowest part of the exterior ear opening. 8. Excessive cosmetics are not allowed and students are encouraged to substitute unscented personal care product fragrances. 9. Undergarments shall not be visible (extending beyond the clothing) when in uniform or professional dress. Undergarments should adequately conceal the body and be of a conservative style and color (e.g., solid white or flesh-toned shade). A plain, solid white short or long-sleeved t- shirt may be worn under the official CON uniform top. Undershirts should have no visible logos or colored topstitching. 10. If a student has special requirements regarding CON uniforms and/or hospital scrub clothes, due to religious or physical reasons, the student must discuss this with faculty on the first day of class. 11. Personal telephones, pagers and other radio-frequency devices tend to hinder job performance and interfere with electrical diagnostic, monitoring, treatment and lab equipment. For this reason, use of personal telephones and pagers during clinical time and in working areas is restricted. Your personal telephone and pager must remain in "off" mode when you are in clinical. You may use your personal telephone and pager when you are on an authorized break and not College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 133

performing clinical duties but must restrict use to areas recognized as public access areas (e.g., entrance and exit lobbies, common public spaces and cafeteria). 12. Clinical simulation lab is considered a clinical experience; therefore all uniform and professional dress code policies apply during attendance. 13. Additional uniform and professional dress requirements that are specific to the affiliated clinical agency s policy and procedures will be adhered to by students and faculty while assigned to the clinical agency. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 134

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Undergraduate & Graduate Subject: General Policies Title of Policy: Latin Designation / Senior Honors Number: CON1103 Effective Date: Supersedes: Approved Date: Approved by: Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: Graduation with Latin Designation is applicable to undergraduate students only (BSN and RN- BSN). To graduate with Latin designation (Summa cum laude, Magna cum laude, cum laude) nursing students must meet various rigorous requirements. 2. Policy Statement There are two avenues to graduate with Latin Designation available to students in the College of Nursing. Students may choose either Senior Honors through the Honors College or Latin Distinction through the College of Nursing. Senior Honors 1. To enter Senior Honors, a student must have completed general honors in good standing or a GPA of 3.25 or higher on at least 40 hours, written recommendations from two professors, and the approval of the student s major department. 2. Senior Honors students must enroll in HON 301, a three-hour Prospectus Writing course, during the junior year (and preferably the first semester of the junior year). To successfully complete the course, students must prepare and submit a satisfactory prospectus. 3. Senior Honors students must enroll in a three-hour Honors Research course (HON 492), or the 492 course offered in the student s primary field of study, in the semester in which the student will graduate. To successfully complete the course, students must prepare and submit a significant senior thesis. 4. Senior Honors students must pass comprehensive examinations in his/her major discipline in the semester in which he/she will graduate. Please review the current Honors College Handbook for details related to additional senior honors requirements and deadlines. The Honors College Handbook is available at http://www.usm.edu/sites/default/files/groups/honors-college/pdf/honors_college_handbook.pdf 3. Procedures: As stated in Policy Statement. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 135

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Undergraduate Subject: General Policies Title of Policy: Student Organizations Number: CON1105 Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: Approved by: Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: To give direction to students who wish to belong to or form a student organization. Students are invited to participate in College of Nursing Committees and Department Committees, as appropriate. 2. Policy Statement 1. College of Nursing students are encouraged to form an operational forum for the various student activities and to discuss their issues and/or concerns. 2. Each forum shall have class officers. Officers are elected by each campus (Hattiesburg and Gulf Park) by the end of the first semester of the junior year. 3. Officers may include a president, vice-president, secretary, and treasurer. 4. Student representatives will be elected in the fall semester from each campus to serve on one of the following College Committees: Curriculum Committee, Policy Committee, and/or Program Evaluation Committee. 5. Student representatives will be elected in the fall semester from each campus to serve on Department Committees, as appropriate. 6. Students are also encouraged to serve on National Nursing Committees (see attached) and University committees as desired. Procedures: As stated in Policy Statement. Guidelines for officers: A. PRESIDENT (1 st semester senior) 1. Designate the time and place for all regular class and/or special meetings: Class meetings should be held once a month during the academic year or as scheduled by the President. 2. Preside at all meetings or designate another officer in his/her absence. 3. Prepare an agenda for meetings and communicate to the class. 4. Establish ad hoc committee meetings as necessary. 5. Notify Class Advisors of meetings two weeks prior to the scheduled time. 6. Consult with Class Advisors about class issues, concerns and/or projects. 7. Help organize fund-raisers. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 136

B. VICE-PRESIDENT 1. Work with Class Advisors to organize Senior class graduation composite pictures. 2. In the event that the President cannot finish the term, fulfill the role of President. 3. Help organize fund-raisers. C. SECRETARY 1. Record minutes from all regular and/or special meetings of the Senior Class. 2. Maintain a Senior Class Notebook which contains copies of all the minutes from all meetings. It should be filed in the office of the Associate Dean for each campus. 3. Help organize fund-raisers. D. TREASURER 1. Keep all funds from fund raisers. 2. Consult with Class Advisor on financial issues. 3. Keep all financial records available to the class. 4. Give a financial report at all meetings. 5. Help organize fund-raisers. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 137

ORGANIZATION: GAMMA LAMBDA CHAPTER, SIGMA THETA TAU INTERNATIONAL HONOR SOCITY OF NURSING Sigma Theta Tau is the International Honor Society of Nursing. The Gamma Lambda Chapter at The University of Southern Mississippi was established in March 1978. The purposes of the Sigma Theta Tau International are - To recognize superior achievement; To recognize the development of leadership qualities; To foster high professional standards; To encourage creative work; and, To strengthen commitment to the ideals and purposes of the profession For more information, contact: Gamma Lambda Chapter President or http://www.nursingsociety.org/ ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL STUDENT NURSES ASSOCIATION Both the Gulf Park campus and Hattiesburg campus have a chapter of the National Student Nurses Association. NSNA members provide community service and enjoy membership benefits including: Student discounts on journals Discounts on malpractice/liability insurance Discounts on medical equipment Opportunity to enter various contests at state and national levels Scholarship opportunities Payment of dues provides membership in all levels of the organization, i.e., The Mississippi Association of Student Nurses (MASN), the National Student Nurses Association (NSNA), and the campus chapter. Membership includes subscriptions to the MASN Pulse Point newsletter and Imprint, the NSNA journal. Chapter members may attend both the state and national conventions at reduced rates. Members wishing to attend the State and/or National Conventions should seek approval from course faculty prior to application deadline. ORGANIZATION: CHRISTIAN NURSES FELLOWSHIP (Hattiesburg Campus) Christian Nurses Fellowship (CNF) is both a professional organization and a ministry of and for nurses and nursing students. CNF Membership is a way for nurses and nursing students to identify with others in the mission of promoting a Christian worldview in nursing education and practice. Purposes of the organization are to: Bring the good news of Jesus Christ to nursing education and practice. Meet for prayer, Bible discussion, mutual encouragement and outreach. Mentor nurses and nursing students as faithful followers of Jesus Christ with a Christian worldview. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 138

Influence nursing from within as a moral and ethical conscience Payment of dues provides membership in the Nurses Christian Fellowship (NCF) national organization and the campus chapter Membership includes: Journal of Christian Nursing (JCN) subscription Free continuing education through JCN Newsletters Discounts on selected NCF events Networking opportunities with Christian nurses around the world E-mail news service A membership card Eligibility to wear membership pin ORGANIZATION: NURSES WORKING FOR CULTURAL DIVERSITY Nurses Working for Cultural Diversity (NWCD) is an association to assist future nurses to recognize and value differences among groups of people and consider the implications for health care in the 21 st century. Membership is open to all USM students enrolled in the College of Nursing. Members enrolled as nursing majors are considered regular members. Members enrolled in pre-nursing majors at USM are considered associate members. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 139

CHAPTER V: DEPARTMENT/PROGRAM POLICIES, GUIDELINES, AND HANDBOOKS Students enrolled in the College of Nursing are responsible for the applicable Department/Program Policies, Guidelines and Handbooks presented in this chapter in addition to the policies, processes, and guidelines presented in this Student Handbook. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 140

DNP PROGRAM POLICIES COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student DNP Subject: DNP Policy Title of Policy: DNP Doctoral Capstone Policy Number: CON1109 Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: November 2012 Approved by: NFO Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: The final capstone project illustrates the outcomes of the student s educational experiences, provides a measurable medium for evaluating the practice immersion experience, and summarizes the student s growth in knowledge and expertise. The final capstone project is a tangible and deliverable academic product that originates from the practice experience and is reviewed and evaluated by an academic committee. 2. Policy Statement 1. The project is completed in collaboration with the clinical practice site. 2. The capstone project is designed and implemented according to ethical principles. 3. The capstone project involves the use of evidence to improve practice or patient outcomes. 4. The capstone project is related to an advanced specialty within nursing practice and benefits a group, population or community rather than an individual. 5. Students are expected to develop, implement, and evaluate their project through scholarly inquiry, evidence-based data, and leadership competencies. 6. The faculty capstone chair and committee guides the student through the capstone project identification, planning, implementation and evaluation. 7. The capstone project is developed based on a needs assessment and arises from problems and issues related to clinical practice. 8. The literature review suggests an evidence base for the capstone project or supports the need for implementation of the project. 9. A systematic approach is used for data collection and analysis using evidence-based methods and tools. 10. Completion of the capstone project demonstrates synthesis of the student s work and lays the foundation for future scholarship. 11. Dissemination modes are professional and lay publications, presentations and media communication. 12. The capstone project must be orally defended in a public forum, the USM College of Nursing. The result of the capstone project defense is indicated on the Graduate School Oral Defense form, signed by the student and committee members. The approved Title Page form is signed by committee members and submitted with the signed Oral Defense form to the Graduate School at USM. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 141

13. The structure of the final written capstone project is defined by the College of Nursing, Graduate School, and University of Southern Mississippi for awarding of the DNP degree. 14. The final capstone project illustrates the outcomes of the student s educational experiences, provides a measurable medium for evaluating the practice immersion experience, and summarizes the student s growth in knowledge and expertise. 15. The final capstone project is a tangible and deliverable academic product that originates from the practice experience and is reviewed and evaluated by an academic committee. 3. Procedures: As stated within the Policy Statement. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 142

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student DNP Subject: DNP Policy Title of Policy: Capstone Project Chair and Number: CON1111 Committee Qualifications Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: November 2012 Approved by: NFO Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: To define the role of the DNP Capstone Project Chair and Committee. 2. Policy Statement Role of the DNP Capstone Project Chair: Students will be introduced to graduate nursing faculty members at The University of Southern Mississippi who have interest and experience in the student s DNP Capstone Project population, topic, or field. By the end of the first semester of the DNP program, the student should identify his/her DNP Capstone Project Chair. The USM Graduate School Committee Form should be completed by the student and capstone project committee members. DNP Capstone Project Committee: After the DNP Capstone Project Chair has been identified, the student should meet with the Chair to discuss the proposed project and identify a potential Expert Advisor. The Capstone Project Chair and Expert Advisor are the primary members of the Capstone Project committee. Additional graduate faculty members who have expertise in the clinical nursing phenomenon or population of interest, the methodology used in the project, or other knowledge related to the student s capstone project may be invited for membership on the committee. With the approval of the Capstone Project Chair, the student is free to add an additional member to the DNP Capstone Project committee. The third capstone project committee member may be a faculty member within the College of Nursing, another nurse, or a professional in a discipline other than nursing who has expertise and specialized knowledge relevant to the DNP Capstone Project. Procedures: As stated in Policy Statement. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 143

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student - DNP Subject: DNP Policy Title of Policy: Capstone Project Proposal Number: CON1113 Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: November 2012 Approved by: NFO Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: To provide guidelines for the Capstone Project Proposal. 2. Policy Statement 1. Preparation of the Capstone Project Proposal a. The capstone project proposal should include a needs assessment, rationale, and problem/need statement for the project. The capstone project should also include objectives, project activities, project timetable, necessary resources, availability of data and an evaluation plan. The capstone project proposal is characterized by acceptable practices of scholarly writing. The capstone project proposal should adhere to the most recent edition of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (APA). b. The capstone project proposal is developed by the student with guidance from the capstone project faculty chair and committee. c. The student and his/her project chair will determine the length of the capstone project proposal. 2. Capstone Project Proposal Review Meeting a. The candidate, chairperson, and members of the candidate s committee will attend the proposal defense meeting. The communication for this meeting may occur face-to-face, via Interactive Video Network (IVN), or by phone conference. The chairperson is responsible for recording basic points made during the meeting and recommendations for revision, if any. b. The candidate should be prepared to discuss the entire proposal. c. When the proposal review meeting is completed, the chairperson will summarize the major points raised by the reviewers and ask for their recommendations. d. The committee may choose to: i. Accept the proposal as is or with minor revisions and no re-review ii. Require minor or major revisions and re-review iii. Reject the proposal. Examples of reasons for rejection may include major safety, ethical, or civil rights problems; major theoretical or methodological flaws; or a plan that is not feasible or does not meet the criteria of an acceptable capstone project. In the case of approval with minor revision required, the candidate must College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 144

a. Submit the revised proposal to the committee chairperson within one (1) month of the proposal review. The committee chairperson will notify the DNP program Director about the status of the revised proposal. b. In the case of major revisions required or approval denied, the candidate must develop a significantly revised or a new proposal. The chairperson will work with the candidate. The committee will review the new proposal and all prior steps will be repeated. c. If a candidate does not submit and successfully defend a proposal after two (2) attempts, the candidate may be dismissed from the program. 1. Required Procedures a. The candidate obtains and completes the USM Graduate School Dissertation Proposal or Prospectus Approval, Comp Exam, and Title Page form at the time of the proposal defense and approval of project proposal. After the committee has approved the proposal, the USM Graduate School Dissertation Proposal or Prospectus Approval and Comp Exam forms are signed by all members of the committee, including any member from outside The University of Southern Mississippi. The affixed signatures attest that the entire committee has met as a whole and approved the proposal. The completed forms are given to the DNP program Director within 10 days of a successful proposal review meeting and the forms are forwarded to the Graduate School. The student will submit the completed Title Page form and send by electronic mail (e-mail) to the Graduate School Reader for approval. b. Concurrent with submission of the capstone project proposal, the student must apply for IRB approval and if appropriate, an IRB application is submitted to the official IRB committee(s) at the site(s) of data collection. Approval from agency IRBs must be included in the final project documentation. No data will be collected until IRB approval has been obtained from The University of Southern Mississippi and appropriate practice sites. c. All students must complete Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI) training prior to beginning their Capstone project. CITI training is a University of Southern Mississippi requirement for all graduate students. 2. Protocol for Communication between Candidates and Chair regarding the Capstone project prior to Graduation. i. For the purpose of federal guidelines involving human subjects, the capstone project chairperson is considered the Principal Investigator of the capstone project. In addition, any external communication or reporting about the capstone project reflects on The University of Southern Mississippi and the College of Nursing. Therefore, it is important that the candidate keep the chairperson informed as follows: Communicate with chairperson of committee before submitting any research grants to fund all or part of the capstone project. ii. Communicate with chairperson of committee before submitting to the public domain any materials that are an integral component of the capstone project. iii. Determine the appropriateness of copyrighting the capstone project with the inclusion of any instruments (e.g. in Appendix) authored by others (whether copyrighted or not). College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 145

iv. Obtain Chair approval on all abstracts submitted for poster and podium presentation and student-generated activities, projects, or presentations delivered while a student in the DNP program. 3. Procedures: As stated within the Policy Statement. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 146

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student - DNP Subject: DNP Policy Title of Policy: Clinical Practice Hours for DNP Number: CON1115 Program Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: November 2012 Approved by: NFO Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: All DNP students are required to document the completion of 1000 hours of advanced nursing practice before graduating from the program. 2. Policy Statement 1. Completion of the written Capstone Project will provide students with 100 hours toward the total 1,000 clinical hours required by the program. 2. Forms required for practice experiences are found in the Clinical Practicum Student Packet. 3. The DNP student is encouraged to select a practice site that will enhance the student s professional growth, meet DNP competencies, provide a structured clinical experience, and meet the specific capstone project objective(s) and specialty program requirements for clinical practice hours. 4. The Request for Clinical Education Association Agreement and Student-Preceptor Clinical Practicum Contract forms should be completed and submitted to the Capstone Chair the semester prior to beginning clinical hours in any setting. 5. With the DNP Capstone Project Chair, the DNP student will select a preceptor/facilitator for the mentored and supervised practice experience. The Clinical Agency and Preceptor Approval form and Preceptor/Facilitator Agreement forms must be completed and submitted to the Capstone Chair the semester prior to beginning clinical hours in any setting. 6. Completion and documentation of practice hours are based on the DNP program guidelines and specialty program requirements. The Capstone Chair will ensure that the student adheres to the DNP program guidelines and specialty program requirements. 7. At the end of the 2 nd DNP program semester and each semester thereafter, students must submit to their Capstone Project Chair a portfolio with practice immersion experiences, capstone project objectives and activities, documented practice hours, documentation of DNP core competencies met, practice scholarship, and completion of required forms in the Clinical Practicum Student Packet. 8. The portfolio is a benchmark to evaluate progress and competency based outcomes. 9. The portfolio is submitted to the DNP Program Director prior to defense of the final DNP project. 3. Procedures: As stated within the Policy Statement. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 147

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student - DNP Subject: DNP Policy Title of Policy: Validation of Previous Clinical Number: CON1117 Hours for the DNP Program Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: November 2012 Approved by: NFO Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: The clinical practice requirement for the DNP program consists of a total of 1000 hours. 2. Policy Statement 1. Clinical practice hours that can be credited to capstone project required practice hours consist of the following components: a. Applicants who are masters-prepared certified or certified eligible advanced practice registered nurses (nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, clinical nurse specialists, nurse anesthetists) may receive credit for up to 500 hours. Proof of current certification is required either prior to matriculation in the program or graduation from the program. b. Uncertified applicants who have MSN degrees or post-masters certificates may receive credit for up to 500 hours for clinical practicum experiences documented by syllabi and transcripts. 2. Granting credit for previous clinical hours is the responsibility of the DNP Program Director. 3. Procedures: As stated within the Policy Statement. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 148

PhD PROGRAM POLICIES Policy Area: Student - PhD Title of Policy: Doctoral Advisement Effective Date: August 2014 Approved Date: Revision Date: COLLEGE OF NURSING Subject: PhD Policies Number: CON1119 Supersedes: Approved by: 1. Rationale or background to policy: All doctoral students must be advised each semester and in response to academic questions or problems. 2. Policy Statement 1. Pre-admission - The Director of the PhD program will handle all doctoral advisement activities occurring prior to admission. 2. Admission The PhD Program Director will present potential student files to the designated Department of Systems Leadership and Health Outcomes admissions committee to review for admission to the doctoral program. The committee will interview all potential students and based on approved criteria make the final selection of students to be accepted by the program. Qualified applicants may be denied admission if a faculty match related to research is not available. 3. Post Admission - After admission, the Director of the PhD program will advise the doctoral student until the dissertation chair is selected. The Director of the PhD program works in conjunction with the student in the selection of the dissertation chair and the Dissertation committee. Thereafter, the student s Mentoring Plan is followed and required forms are completed and signed by the Director of the PhD program and the Faculty Advisor annually (see Attachment A). Dissertation Chair After the dissertation chair is selected, the Director of the PhD program and the Dissertation Chair will complete the Annual Program of Study form. 3. Procedures: As stated within the Policy Statement College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 149

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student Subject: PhD Policies Title of Policy: Doctoral Mentoring Plan Number: CON1121 Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: Approved by: Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: The established mentoring plan will be updated each fall by the doctoral student, the Director of the PhD program, and the Faculty Advisor/ Dissertation Chair. 2. Policy Statement Doctoral Mentoring plan Required Mentoring Forms will be completed and copies distributed to the student, faculty advisor, and the Director of the PhD program. The plan is intended to socialize PhD students to the domains of expertise required of nursing scholars. Thus, goals are developed in the following 3 areas based on student career trajectory. All goals should be measurable. Education Nursing courses to be taken, elective courses outside of nursing, planned educational/teaching experiences. Research Collaboration with faculty in selected area of research focus resulting in professional presentations, publications, research experiences, and research grant submissions. Service Committee membership, leadership experiences in both professional and community service. The student will keep the documentation showing completion of these goals in the form of a personal dossier that will be turned in to their faculty advisor and the Director of the PhD program for approval at the end of each academic year. 3. Procedures: As stated within the Policy Statement. Attached Addendum: PhD Mentoring Plan College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 150

PhD MENTORING PLAN Year Category Indicator I Education 1. Complete core courses and maintain a 3.5 GPA 2. Successfully complete 6 credits of Advanced Research 3. Begin to identify courses for minor Research Service 1. Regularly attend research colloquia in focal area 2. Begin to define research area for dissertation 3. Plan for the submission of a research proposal for external funding (e.g. NRSA) 4. Attend at least one scientific conference (nursing or 1. Participate interdisciplinary) approved service project II Education 1. Complete minor courses and maintain at least a 3.0 GPA 2. Successfully complete 6 credits of role specialization 3. Complete a supervised teaching/leadership project 4. Prepare for qualifying exams 5. Successfully complete comprehensive examinations Research 1. Attend research one colloquia during two out of three semesters per year 2. Attend a selected research group meeting once two out of three semesters per year 3. Co-author one manuscript with faculty member for submission in year three III Service Education College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 151

IV Research Service Education Research Service 1. Develop dissertation proposal 2. Continue to attend research group meeting once two out of three semesters per year 3. Attend research colloquia during two out of three semesters per year 4. Prepare and submit at least one abstract as first author for presentation at a scholarly conference in collaboration with Dissertation Chair 5. Submit the co-authored manuscript developed during year two 1. Conduct dissertation research 2. Begin work on research funding College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 152

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student - PhD Subject: PhD Policies Title of Policy: Comprehensive Exams - PhD Number: CON1123 Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: Approved by: Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: All PhD students are required to take a Comprehensive Examination at the completion or in the final semester of their required coursework. The Comprehensive Examination must be successfully completed before the first formal dissertation prospectus meeting. 2. Policy Statement 1. In the College of Nursing, the written Comprehensive Exam is aimed at assessing the adequacy of the students skills and knowledge to begin the dissertation process. It is not intended to assess the students knowledge of individual course material that has previously been evaluated in each course. Rather, the Comprehensive Exam is intended to assess the students ability to synthesize and integrate concepts, skills, and knowledge gained in coursework and the scholarly research and theoretical literature in their area of interest. Students are expected to be able to make a logical argument, using accurate knowledge, theories, and assumptions, on which to base their conclusions 2. The Director of the PhD program will schedule comprehensive exams in the fall and spring semesters. A Comprehensive Exam Committee consisting of three (3) doctoral faculty members will be appointed by the Director of the PhD program to serve for each academic year. 3. The Comprehensive Exam Committee is responsible for advising eligible students on how to prepare for the exam. 4. The Comprehensive Exam Committee members in consultation with doctoral faculty will also be responsible for writing, reviewing, grading, updating, and developing the comprehensive exam questions and schedule. This committee develops an outlined response to the questions and establishes criteria determinant of a correct response to the comprehensive question. 5. The Comprehensive Exam committee will prepare a set of 6 questions. o Question 1 - Substantive and theoretical knowledge relevant to Theory o Question 2 - Substantive and theoretical knowledge relevant to Research o o o Question 3- Substantive and theoretical knowledge relevant to the student s major area of interest Question 4 Substantive and theoretical knowledge relevant to the Philosophy of Science Question 5 & 6 Questions related to the students, minor interest areas. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 153

6. The exam will be graded based on the following criteria: a) the answers reflect a comprehensive, appropriate and accurate citation of the literature; b) the references will be cited using APA format; c) the student s responses address the question asked and clearly identify the component of the question being addressed in each section of the answer; d) the responses demonstrate synthesis and integration of concepts, skills, and knowledge gained in coursework and the scholarly literature in their answers; e) the responses include a critical evaluation of the strengths and limitations of the methodological and substantive literature; and f) the responses illustrate synthesis and make a logical argument to justify conclusions made. 7. The distribution of the exam to doctoral faculty outside of the committee for readership is the prerogative of the Comprehensive Exam Committee. 8. After the Comprehensive Exam Committee has completed the initial grading, the committee will meet with the entire doctoral faculty to discuss any issues requiring clarification. At the completion of that meeting, the exams will be given a final grade and returned to the Director of the PhD program, 9. The results will be provided to the student in no longer than four (4) weeks following the exam. 10. The Director of the PhD program and/or the Faculty Advisor/Dissertation Chair will meet with the student to discuss the results of the exam. 3. Procedures: As stated within the Policy Statement. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 154

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student - PhD Subject: PhD Policies Title of Policy: Dissertation Committee - PhD Number: CON1125 Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: Approved by: Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: All PhD candidates must write a dissertation. 2. Policy Statement 1. The PhD Dissertation Committee should be comprised of four to five members and a chair. All members must have the appropriate Graduate Status as determined by University Guidelines. 2. The Dissertation Chair must have Graduate Status Regular Level 3 and must be College of Nursing faculty. 3. At least three (3) of the five (5) members must be College of Nursing faculty, holding an earned doctorate, and at Regular Level 2 or 3. At least two (2) of the CON members must be tenured. Two members may be from another academic unit in the university. One member may be from another university. The outside member may serve if they have specialized knowledge needed by the candidate and are approved by the Graduate Council. 4. At least one committee member must represent the candidate s area of emphasis, one member should be a content expert, and one member should be an expert in the methodology. 3. Procedures: As stated within the Policy Statement. College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 155

COLLEGE OF NURSING Policy Area: Student - PhD Subject: PhD Policies Title of Policy: Dissertation Process - PhD Number: CON1127 Effective Date: August 2014 Supersedes: Approved Date: Approved by: Revision Date: 1. Rationale or background to policy: All doctoral candidates must write a dissertation. 2. Policy Statement 1. The candidate, in conjunction with the Director of the PhD program, is responsible for selecting the dissertation committee chair. The chair will work with the candidate to identify appropriate committee members. The dissertation chair will also assist the candidate in the development of an abstract of the proposed research project to be used when communicating to potential committee members. 2. Candidates are responsible for making an appointment with potential dissertation committee members and providing them with their abstract. After discussion of the desired project, faculty members are at liberty to agree or decline to be part of the candidate s dissertation. 3. The dissertation chair will provide the candidate with the USM Graduation and Dissertation/Thesis Deadline sheet and set up a time schedule. The chair will direct the candidate to obtain a copy of the College of Nursing Guidelines for Preparing Thesis and Dissertations and USM Candidate Manual for Preparing Thesis and Dissertations. 4. The dissertation chair will maintain a candidate folder that includes copies of the advisement forms showing the candidate has been continuously enrolled. Before graduation the candidate must be enrolled for 12 hours in NSG 898 with three (3) credits in the semester he/she expects to defend. Copies of these documents are sent to the office of the Department of Systems Leadership and Health Outcomes for placement in the student s folder. 3. Procedures: As stated within the Policy Statement College of Nursing Student Handbook 2015-2016 Page 156