Nursing Programs Practice Experiences Guide

Nursing Programs Practice Experiences Guide 10.23.2014/v.G

Table of Contents Practice Experiences Overview... 5-11 Background... 5 Practice Experiences by Program Table... 5 Total Number of Practice Experience Hours Required by Program... 6 Your CertifiedProfile Through Certified Background... 6 Required Student Malpractice Insurance... 8 Nursing Photo Identification... 9 Practice Experiences for the RN to BSN Program... 10-11 Definition of Terms... 10 Rationale for Practice Experience Hours... 10 How the Practice Experiences Works... 10 RN to BSN Program Practice Experience Checklist... 11. Practice Experiences for the RN to MSN Program... 12-17 Definition of Term... 13 Rationale for Practice Experience Hours... 13 How the Practice Experiences Works... 13 RN to MSN Program Practice Experience Checklist... 14 Confirming Completion of the Certified Background Requirements... 17 Practice Experiences for the MSN Program... 18-24 Definition of Terms... 18 Rationale for Practice Experience Hours... 19 How the Practice Experiences Works... 19 MSN Program Practice Experience Checklist... 21 2

Confirming completion of the Certified Background Requirements... 24 Practice Experiences for the DNP Program... 25-31 Definition of Terms... 25 Rationale for Practice Experience Hours... 26 How the Practice Experiences Works... 26 DNP Program Practice Experience Checklist... 28 Confirming Completion of the Certified Background Requirements... 31 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)... 32 Blood-Borne Pathogen and Hazard Communication Training... 39 Confidentiality Training... 39 Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Training... 40 Practice Experiences Record... 41 Request for Practice Experiences... 42 Practice Experience Reflective Journal Instructions... 43 Practice Experience Reflective Journal Documentation Form... 44 Practice Experience Grading Rubric... 46 Precepted Practice Experience Evaluation... 47 Contents of Preceptor Packet... 47 Preceptor Qualifications... 48 Preceptor Responsibilities... 48 Student Responsibilities... 50 Faculty of Record Responsibilities... 51 Practice Experience Site Affiliation Agreement... 52 Nursing Student Health Form... 58 3

Acknowledgement of Health Insurance Liability... 63 Student Evaluation of Practice Experience Form... 65 Sample Preceptor Thank You Letter... 67 Preceptor Packet... 68-79. Letter to Potential Preceptor... 69 American Sentinel University Mission... 70 American Sentinel University Vision... 70 American Sentinel University Values... 70 American Sentinel University Principles... 70 American Sentinel University Nursing Programs Philosophy... 71 American Sentinel University Preceptor Application and Agreement... 74 American Sentinel University Expectations of Nurse Preceptor... 77 Preceptor Feedback of Student... 79 Employer s Waiver Form for Practice Experience Requirements Form for RN to BSN/MSN, MSN and DNP Students... 80 Instructions to Set Up Certified Profile with Certified Background... 82 Notification of Certified Background Requirements... 84 Sample of Certified Background Compliance Report... 85 Printing the Compliance Report: How to for Students... 87 Petition for a Waiver of the Certified Background Account, Use of an Agency Affiliation Agreement and Practice Experience Preceptor for Students Taking only N512, N521 & N522PE... 88 4

Practice Experiences Overview Background The accreditors for the Nursing Programs at American Sentinel, the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accrediting Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), require that RN to BSN, RN to MSN, MSN and DNP programs include practice experiences in the curricula to enable students to achieve the required educational competencies (AACN White Paper, Oct. 2012; DNP Essentials for Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice, 2006; ACEN 2013 Standards). These practice experiences have specific objectives, expected outcomes and competencies. Students who complete these experiences are evaluated by the faculty of record. Practice experiences are not like the clinical experiences you completed to obtain your degree as a registered nurse. Practice experiences do not involve hands-on patient care. They are designed to provide you with the opportunity to apply the concepts and knowledge you learn in the nursing courses. Practice Experiences by Program Table American Sentinel University - Nursing Programs Practice Experiences Abbreviations Practice Learning Experience Precepted Practice Experience Simulation Capstone Hours PLE PPE S CH RN-BSN X X RN-BSN/MSN X X X MSN: Education X X X MSN: Infection Prevention MSN: Case Management X X X X X X MSN: Informatics X X X MSN: Leadership X X X DNP: Educational Leadership DNP: Executive Leadership X X X X X X X X 5

Total Number of Practice Experience Hours Required by Nursing Program RN to BSN 90 RN to BSN/MSN 490 MSN 400 DNP 600 Practice Experiences in the Nursing Programs include a combination of practice learning experiences (PLE), precepted practice experiences (PPE), simulation experiences (S), and capstone hours (CH). Different nursing programs have different types of practice experiences imbedded in the curriculum. Your CertifiedProfile Account Through Certified Background If you are enrolled in the RN to BSN/MSN, MSN or DNP programs, you need to establish a Certified Background account. If you are enrolled in the RN to BSN program, it is unnecessary for you to establish a Certified Background account. Certified Background provides CertifiedProfile, a secure document tracking and repository service that collects, tracks and monitors your required documentation for the practice experiences you do during your nursing program at American Sentinel. This is a one-stop site for you to upload all of your required documents for practice experiences. You have access to your documents after you graduate. CertifiedProfile monitors your posting of the required documents and contacts you (and American Sentinel) automatically if you need to update a document. Instructions on how to set up your CertifiedProfile account through Certified Background are found in this Nursing Programs Practice Experiences Guide. The basic instructions are: go to http://americansentinel.certifiedbackground.com and click on the place order button in the middle of the page. If it asks you if you have already have a Certified Background account, DO NOT click yes. You need to establish an account that is linked to American Sentinel University. You will be asked to select one of the following programs: RN to B S N / MSN, MSN, or DNP. If you are unsure which nursing program to select, please contact your Student Service Advisor (SSA) before continuing. Click on the applicable program button. Then select the state where you reside from the dropdown menu in the middle of the page. Based on the state you select, a new dropdown menu will appear that will prompt you to select whether this is your first time placing an order for an account through American Sentinel or if you would like to order a recheck package for your American Sentinel account. Then on the following screen, review the contents of your package, and check both boxes that appear at the bottom of the screen to show that you have read, understand, and agree to the terms and conditions. You are now ready to get started with your order. Click the continue order button, and you will be directed to set up your CertifiedProfile account. Enter your full name, date of birth, Social Security Number, current address, phone number and e-mail address into your CertifiedProfile account. 6

At the end of the online order process, you will be prompted to enter your Visa or MasterCard information to pay for your CertifiedProfile account. Money orders are also accepted but will result in a $10 fee and an additional turnaround-time. Your background check results will be posted directly to your CertifiedProfile account. You will be notified if there is any missing information needed in order to process your order. Although 95% of background check results are completed within 3-5 business days, some results may take longer. Your order will show as In Process until it has been completed in its entirety. Approved personnel at American Sentinel can also securely view your results online with their unique username and password. The cost for you to complete the requirements on your CertifiedProfile account depends on the nursing program in which you are enrolled and the location and requirements of state in which you reside and want to complete your practice experiences. Please note: If you are c u rrently working as a registered nurse at the healthcare organization/facility where you want to do your practice experiences, you may ask the organization/facility to waive some or all of the requirements for your nursing program. To do this, you need to ask an authorized person from the healthcare organization to complete a document called the Employer s Waiver of Practice Experiences Requirements. This document is included in this Practice Experiences Guide. Download, print and ask the authorized person at the healthcare organization if the organization is willing to waive some or all of the requirements and complete the Employer s Waiver of Practice Experiences Requirements form. You will not need to complete the requirements that the healthcare organization waives from the Practice Experiences requirements list. If the healthcare organization waives all requirements for your program, you will not need to establish a Certified Background account. And you will upload a copy of this waiver in the assignment area of the course where completing Certified Background is an assignment. If the healthcare organization waives some but not all of the requirements, you will need to complete all remaining requirements for the program in which you are enrolled. You will upload the completed waiver from along with your Certified Background compliance form for any requirements that were not waived by the healthcare organization in the assignment area of the course where completing Certified Background is an assignment. Please note: You may do your practice experiences with more than one healthcare organization/facility. Some healthcare organizations/facilities require students to complete additional requirements before starting practice experiences. You will need to document completion on your CertifiedProfile account of all additional requirements from the healthcare facility/organization where you want to complete your practice experiences. 7

Required Student Malpractice Insurance The malpractice insurance you have through your employer covers you while you work as an employee of the facility/organization. When you are in the role of an American Sentinel nursing student completing practice experiences at your place of employment or any other healthcare setting, you need to have your own malpractice insurance to cover you as a student for $1,000,000 per occurrence/3,000,000 aggregate coverage per year unless this requirements is waived by the healthcare organization where you will do your practice experiences. When purchasing malpractice insurance it is important to confirm coverage is based upon your current licensure and certification status. Typically, student nurse malpractice insurance does not cover Registered Nurses or Advanced Practice Registered Nurses or specialty certifications. Each of these criteria determine the cost basis of the annual insurance premium: level of licensure, state(s) of licensure, hours worked, and academic status (type of academic nursing program). If the organization where you will perform your practice experiences requires malpractice insurance of a different amount, you will need to obtain malpractice coverage as required by that organization. Several organizations provide malpractice insurance to nursing students. Some options* include: 1. Nurses Service Organization (NSO): http://www.nso.com/ 2. Proliability: http://www.proliability.com/ 3. CM & F Group, Inc.: https://www.cmfgroup.com/ 4. HPSO (Healthcare Providers Service Organization): http://www.hpso.com/ 5. CNA Financial : http://www.cna.com/portal/site/cna 6. ANA (American Nurses Association): http://nursingworld.org/nursingliabilityinsurance The cost of your malpractice insurance depends on: Your state of residence Did you graduate from a pre-licensure program within the past 12 months? Do you work more than 24 hours per week or are you currently unemployed? * Please note: American Sentinel University does not endorse any specific vendor. The links to these vendors is provided just for your convenience. Nursing Student Photo Identification For security purposes, you are required to wear a photo identification badge on your clothing that is visible at all times when you are at a site/facility to complete practice experiences. Follow the directions on your CertifiedProfile account to obtain a picture identification badge that you are required to wear while you complete your practice experiences. General directions include: Use a digital camera to take the photo or obtain a passport photo from a local post office or store like Walgreens, CVS, etc. 8

It is essential that the photo look like a passport photo with a close up of you from your shoulders up and your face in focus. Choose a plain background for the photo. Only you should be in the photo. The size of the picture should be appropriate for a badge photo. Do not wear a hat or sunglasses in the picture. 9

Practice Experiences for the RN to BSN Program Definition of Terms Practice Experiences are activities that you complete during the nursing courses in your program of study. Completion of the practice experiences ensures that you meet the course learning outcomes. For the RN to BSN program, practice experiences include a combination of the following activities and experiences. Practice Learning Experiences (PLE) in the RN to BSN program are course assignments that allow you to apply what you learn in a course. PLEs do not require you to obtain a Certified Background account or an affiliation agreement or a preceptor. Simulations (S) in the RN to BSN program are practice experiences that involve participation in a variety of virtual settings. Simulations do not require you to obtain a Certified Background account or an affiliation agreement or a preceptor. Example: You complete community health and leadership practice experiences through simulation and actual experiences with a community or healthcare organization through interactions with a mentor. These hours count toward your total practice hours for the RN to BSN program. Example: You complete physical assessment practice experience hours through Shadow Health simulations and videotape an actual physical assessment of a family member or friend. These hours count toward your total practice hours for the RN to BSN program. Rationale for Practice Experience Hours in the RN to BSN Program The RN to BSN program includes 90 practice experience hours that focus on developing and refining the knowledge and skills necessary to manage care as part of an interprofessional team and preparing students to care for clients in a variety of settings, including the community (AACN, Essentials of Baccalaureate Education for Professional Nursing practice, 2008). The practice experience hours in the RN to BSN program are a combination of practice learning experiences (PLE) and simulations (S). How the Practice Experience Process Works You must complete the required number of practice experience hours in each RN to BSN course that contains practice experience hours. All practice experience activities must be completed by the end of the course for you to receive credit for the activities. All practice experiences are graded as pass/fail. Failed practice experience hours do not count toward the total number of practice hours required for a course and impact your ability to successfully complete the course. Please note: If you fail to complete the required practice hours for the course, you will receive a failing grade for the course. A practice experience hour is defined as the time you actually spend completing the practice experience. 10

You cannot work as a paid employee and receive credit for the same practice experiences hours. That is, you cannot be paid for competing practice experience hours when you are functioning in the capacity of a paid employee. If you are an employee at a practice experiences site or have any other formal relationship with the site, your role must be clearly defined in advance of the practice experience. RN to BSN Practice Experiences Checklist Below is a checklist to help you verify that you have completed the activities required regarding practice experiences in the RN to BSN Program. Requirement AT THE END OF A RN TO BSN COURSE THAT INCLUDES A PRACTICE EXPERIENCE: Log your practice hours that include practice learning experiences (PLE) and simulations (S) on the Practice Experience Record during the courses that include practice experiences. Upload your completed Practice Experience Record indicating that you completed the required hours for practice experiences to the appropriate weekly assignment area for the course. Yes/No 11

Practice Experiences Overview for the RN to BSN/MSN Program Definition of Terms Practice Experiences are activities that you complete during the nursing courses in your program of study. Completion of the practice experiences ensures that you meet the course learning outcomes. For the RN to BSN/MSN program, practice experiences include a combination of the following activities and experiences. Practice Learning Experiences (PLE) in the RN to BSN/MSN program are course assignments that allow you to apply what you learn in a course. They take place in both the BSN and the MSN courses. Simulations (S) in the RN to BSN/MSN program are practice experiences that involve participation in a variety of virtual settings. They take place in both the BSN and the MSN courses. Example: You complete community health and leadership practice experiences through simulation and actual experiences with a community or healthcare organization through interactions with a mentor. These hours count toward your total practice hours for the RN to BSN/MSN program. Example: You complete physical assessment practice experience hours through Shadow Health simulations and videotape an actual physical assessment of a family member or friend. These hours count toward your total practice hours for the RN to BSN/MSN program. Precepted Practice Experiences (PPE) for the RN to BSN/MSN program take place in your workplace or other healthcare facility or setting. PPEs require you to establish a Certified Background account and complete the requirements specified for the RN to BSN/MSN program once your complete the BSN courses in the program. You also need to obtain a preceptor that meets the stated requirement for a preceptor and is employed at the healthcare facility or setting for the PPE. American Sentinel must obtain an affiliation agreement with each PPE facility or setting. Please contact the appropriate person at the healthcare organization and ask him/her to email a copy of the organization s affiliation agreement used for students to AcademicServices@americansentinel.edu. The agreement will be reviewed, signed and returned it to the organization. They take place in the MSN courses. Example: An RN to BSN/MSN student taking a Case Management specialization course is precepted by a case management nurse in the healthcare facility where the student is employed as a staff nurse. The student sits in on group discussion with the case manager and his/her team. These hours count toward the total practice hours in the RN to BSN/MSN program. The Rationale for Practice Experience Hours in the RN to BSN/MSN Program The RN to BSN/MSN program includes 490 practice hours to provide the opportunity for delivery of services or programs of wide diversity in a multitude of healthcare settings and allow students 12

to integrate didactic learning, promote innovative thinking, and test new potential solutions to clinical/practice or system issues (AACN, Essentials for Master s Education in Nursing, 2011). The practice experience hours in the RN to BSN/MSN program are a combination of practice learning experiences (PLE), precepted practice experiences (PPE) and simulations (S). How the Practice Experience Process Works You must complete the required number of practice experience hours in each RN to BSN/MSN course that contains practice experiences. In some courses you may select from several practice experience options as listed in the course syllabus to complete the required number of practice hours and fulfill the course outcomes. Also, you may send a request to the faculty of record that you be allowed to complete an alternative practice experience to fulfill the course outcomes and/or assignment/project criteria using the Practice Experiences Request Form. Written approval of the faculty of record is required before you can start an alternative practice experience. All practice experience activities must be completed by the end of the course for you to receive credit for the activities. All practice experiences are graded as pass/fail. Failed practice experience hours do not count toward the total number of practice hours required for a course and impact your ability to successfully complete the course. Please note: If you fail to complete the required practice hours for the course, you will receive a failing grade for the course. A practice learning experience hour is defined as the time you actually spend completing the practice experience assignment. You cannot work as a paid employee and receive credit for the same practice experiences hours. That is, you cannot be paid for competing practice experience hours when you are functioning in the capacity of a paid employee. If you are an employee at a practice experiences site or have any other formal relationship with the site, your role must be clearly defined in advance of the practice experience. When you inquire about the RN to BSN/MSN program: The Admissions Department will discuss with you the fact that after you complete the BSN courses in the program and start the MSN courses (N512PE), you will need to establish a Certified Background account and meet the requirements for the MSN part of the program. RN to BSN/MSN Program Practice Experience Checklist Please note: In the RN to BSN/MSN program, you do not need to do set up a Certified Background account until you have completed your BSN courses and have started the MSN courses (N512PE). Below is a checklist to help you verify that you have completed the activities required regarding practice experiences in the RN to BSN/MSN Program. 13

Requirement AFTER STARTING N512PE: Establish an individual CertifiedProfile account with Certified Background and start to fulfill the requirements that need to be documented on your CertifiedProfile account. See the Nursing Programs Practice Experiences Guide for directions on how to set up this account. Yes/No If you want to complete your practice experiences where you are employed, you may ask your employer to sign and submit the Employer s Waiver of Practice Experiences Requirements form indicating that the organization waives some or all of the requirements. Please note: If the organization where you work and where you will complete ALL your practice experiences waives ALL of the requirements, then you do not need to establish a Certified Background account. Obtain documentation on your CertifiedProfile account that you have a clear criminal background check as required by the state where you reside and your practice experiences will take place. Contact a vendor that provides individual malpractice insurance. (See list of possible vendors.) Purchase individual malpractice insurance with a minimum limit of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $3,000,000 aggregate coverage. Upload proof of individual malpractice insurance with a minimum limit of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $3,000,000 aggregate coverage. You need to renew your malpractice insurance each year after you start the MSN courses in the RN to BSN/MSN program. Upload information to your CertifiedProfile account to prove that you hold an active and unencumbered RN license. You need to upload proof that your license remains current and unencumbered each year after you start the MSN courses in the RN to BSN/MSN program. Complete a health screen via a health history and physical examination conducted by and signed by a physician or nurse practitioner. You need to repeat this health screen each year after you start the MSN courses in the RN to BSN/MSN program. Upload an immunization record validating that you are up to date with the required immunizations/vaccinations. 14

Upload proof of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification. You need to repeat this certification each year after you start the MSN courses in the RN to BSN/MSN program. Upload proof that you have health insurance, or a signed waiver verifying that you understand that you are responsible for all expenses related to illness or accidents that may occur while you participate in the RN to MSN program. You need to repeat this each year after you start the MSN courses in the RN to BSN/MSN program. Upload a certificate of completion of OSHA training that you completed within the past 12 months in connection with Blood-Bourne Pathogen and Hazard Communication. You need to repeat this each year after you start the MSN courses in the RN to BSN/MSN program. Upload a certificate of completion of HIPAA training that you completed within the past 12 months. You need to repeat this each year after you start the MSN courses in the RN to BSN/MSN program. Follow the directions on your CertifiedProfile account to obtain a picture identification badge that you are required to wear while you complete your practice experiences. You may do your practice experiences with more than one health organization/facility. Some healthcare organizations/facilities require students to complete additional requirements before starting practice experiences. You need to document completion on your CertifiedProfile account of all additional requirements from the healthcare facility/organization where you want to do your practice experiences. BEFORE COMPLETING N512PE: Upload your CertifiedProfile report indicating that you completed the requirements for practice experiences into the assignment drop box area for the course. Or upload the completed and signed Employer s Waiver of Practice Experiences Requirements form indicating that the organization where you will do your practice experiences waived ALL of the requirements for practice experiences to the assignment drop box area for the course. WHEN STARTING A COURSE THAT INCLUDES A PRECEPTED PRACTICE EXPERIENCE (PPE): Email the faculty of record for the course requesting approval of the site where you want to do the PPE and the name and contact information of your proposed preceptor. You may do your PPE at your place of employment. Your preceptor cannot be someone in a direct reporting relationship with you at your place of employment or someone who is related to you. Your preceptor must meet the requirements listed in the Practice Experiences Guide. 15

Preceptors may NOT hold student status in the same degree program or in the same graduate or certificate program as the students being precepted. For example, an American Sentinel University MSN student cannot be precepted by another MSN student regardless of where the other student is enrolled. If the proposed site for the PPE and the proposed preceptor are acceptable to the faculty of record, make the initial contact with the site and proposed preceptor to see if the site is willing for you to complete your PPE at the location. Provide the preceptor with the forms in the Preceptor Packet included in this Practice Experiences Guide. If the proposed site and/or proposed preceptor for the PPE are unacceptable to the faculty of record, you identify a different site and/or preceptor and send an email to the faculty of record with the new information. Contact the appropriate person at the proposed site for the practice experiences and ask them to email their Affiliation Agreement to academicservices @americnasentinel.edu. Please Note: A Precepted Practice Experience (PPE) requires a signed Practice Experiences Site Affiliation Agreement form. Some sites may require completion of this form for other types of practice experiences based on the affiliating agency policy. DURNG A COURSE THAT INCLUDES A PRECEPTED PRACTICE EXPERIENCE (PPE): Engage in ongoing communication directly with your preceptor and the faculty of record during the PPE. Complete the PPE and receive a grade for the course from the faculty of record. AT THE END OF A COURSE THAT INCLUDES A PRACTICE EXPERIENCE: Log your practice hours that include practice learning experiences (PLE), precepted practice experiences (PPE) and simulations (S) on the Practice Experience Record during the courses that include practice experiences. Upload your completed Practice Experience Record indicating that you completed the requirements for practice experiences to the appropriate weekly assignment area for the course. 16

Confirming Completion of Certified Background Requirements At the start of PE courses that follow the course in which you completed your Certified Background requirements, you are required to complete a two-question quiz and click a button to submit the answers to the quiz. You are asked to click the button to certify that you have completed the Certified Background requirements or received a waiver for all the Certified Background requirements. Once you answer yes to this question, you can access the course. This quiz has been embedded in all courses in which there are practice experiences. This is done to confirm that you have met the Certified Background requirements or have them waived by the healthcare organization so that we can assure our healthcare partners and organizations where we have signed affiliation agreements that we comply with the conditions of the affiliation agreements. This is a compliance issue. To help you understand and meet these requirements we embedded clear instructions and sample documents in the courses so you know exactly what you need to do. The faculty of record in the PE courses will check to confirm that you have uploaded your Certified Background result document or waiver indicating that you are in compliance. If we discover that a student didn't complete the Certified Background actions and falsified his/her confirmation that it was completed, the issue will be handled through the University Academic Integrity Policy. 17

Practice Experiences Overview for the MSN Program Definition of Terms Practice Experiences are activities that you complete during the nursing courses in your program of study. Completion of the practice experiences ensures that you meet the course learning outcomes. For the MSN program, practice experiences include a combination of the following activities and experiences. Practice Learning Experiences (PLE) for the MSN program are course assignments that allow you to apply what you learn in a course. Example: In N515PE Nursing Research, you are required to explore an interactive research repository of clinical interest and then identify strengths and weaknesses of multiple research studies based within the five major components of research studies: background, literature review, methodology, findings, and implications. You then journal your findings and critical reflections of this experience and its application to your nursing practice. These hours count toward the total practice hours for the MSN program. Simulations (S) for the MSN program are practice experiences that involve participation in a variety of virtual settings. Example: In N505PE Theoretical Foundations you are required to explore the American Sentinel University virtual campus and nursing theorist holdings in the Nursing Museum. You identify your favorite nursing theorist and why that theorist and theory is a preferred lens for your nursing practice. Then, journal your related findings. These hours count toward the total practice hours for the MSN program. Example: You complete physical assessment practice experience hours through Shadow Health simulations and videotape an actual physical assessment of a family member or friend. These hours count toward your total practice hours for the RN to BSN/MSN program. Precepted Practice Experiences (PPE) for the MSN program take place in your workplace or other healthcare facility or setting. PPEs require you to set up a Certified Background account complete specific requirements through your CertifiedProfile account. You must a l s o obtain a preceptor that meets the stated requirement for a preceptor and is employed at the healthcare facility or setting for the PPE. American Sentinel must obtain an affiliation agreement with each PPE facility or setting. Example: In N543PE Case Management and Evidence Based Practice you are required to select a specific chronic disease entity and prepare a case management algorithm for the disease, based on evidence, desired outcomes, appropriate theoretical and empirical models, cultural considerations, and case management roles. You obtain feedback 18

from your preceptor regarding the algorithm and prepare modifications based on the suggestions. You then prepare a commentary and journal entry about the process of developing a case management algorithm and how prepared they feel for the case management role. These hours count toward the total practice hours in the MSN program. The Rationale for Practice Experience Hours in the MSN Program The MSN program includes 400 practice hours to provide the opportunity for delivery of services or programs of wide diversity in a multitude of healthcare settings and allow students to integrate didactic learning, promote innovative thinking, and test new potential solutions to clinical/practice or system issues (AACN, Essentials for Master s Education in Nursing, 2011). The practice experience hours in the MSN program are a combination of practice learning experiences (PLE), precepted practice experiences (PPE), and simulations (S). How the Practice Experience Process Works You must complete the required number of practice experience hours in each MSN course that contains practice experiences. In some courses you may select from several practice experience options as listed in the course syllabus to complete the required number of practice hours and fulfill the course outcomes. Also, you may send a request to the faculty of record that you be allowed to complete an alternative practice experience to fulfill the course outcomes and/or assignment/project criteria usint the Practice Experiences Request Form. Written approval of the faculty of record is required before you can start an alternative practice experience. All practice experience activities must be completed by the end of the course for you to receive credit for the activities. All practice experiences are graded as pass/fail. Failed practice experience hours do not count toward the total number of practice hours required for a course and impact your ability to successfully complete the course. Please note: If you fail to complete the required practice hours for the course, you will receive a failing grade for the course. A practice learning experience hour is defined as the time you actually spend completing the practice experience assignment. You cannot work as a paid employee and receive credit for the same practice experiences hours. That is, you cannot be paid for competing practice experience hours when you are functioning in the capacity of a paid employee. If you are an employee at a practice experiences site or have any other formal relationship with the site, your role must be clearly defined in advance of the practice experience. When you inquire about the MSN program: The Admissions Department sends you a checklist of the required documentation for practice experiences in the MSN program. When you are Eligible to Enroll in the MSN program: In the Eligible to Enroll packet sent to you by the Admissions Department, you receive: Information about the requirements for the practice experiences for the MSN program. A checklist of documents/verification you need to submit during the N512PE course. A list of websites for companies that provide malpractice insurance for nursing students. Information about how you set up an account with Certified Background. 19

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MSN Program Practice Experience Checklist Below is a checklist to help you verify that you have completed the activities required regarding practice experiences in the MSN Program. If you want to complete your practice experiences where you are employed, you may ask your employer to sign and submit the Employer s Waiver of Practice Experiences Requirements form. This form is found in the Nursing Programs Practice Experiences Guide. Please contact your SSA for more information. Requirement AFTER STARTING N512PE: Establish an individual CertifiedProfile account with Certified Background and start to fulfill the requirements that need to be documented on your CertifiedProfile account. See the Nursing Programs Practice Experiences Guide for directions on how to set up this account. Yes/No Obtain documentation on your CertifiedProfile account that you have a clear criminal background check as required by the state where your practice experiences will take place. Contact a vendor that provides individual malpractice insurance. (See list of possible vendors.) Purchase individual malpractice insurance with a minimum limit of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $3,000,000 aggregate coverage. Upload proof of individual malpractice insurance with a minimum limit of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $3,000,000 aggregate coverage. You need to renew your malpractice insurance each year that you are in the MSN program. Upload information to your CertifiedProfile account to prove that you hold an active and unencumbered RN license. You need to upload proof that your license remains current and unencumbered each year you are in the MSN program. Complete a health screen via a health history and physical examination conducted by and signed by a physician or nurse practitioner. You need to repeat this health screen each year that you are in the MSN program. Upload an immunization record validating that you are up to date with the required immunizations/vaccinations. Upload proof of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification. You need to repeat this certification each year that you are in the MSN program. Upload proof that you have health insurance, or a signed waiver verifying that you understand that you are responsible for all expenses related to illness or accidents that may occur while you participate in the MSN program. You need to repeat this each year that you are in the MSN program. 21

Upload a certificate of completion of OSHA training that you completed within the past 12 months in connection with Blood-Bourne Pathogen and Hazard Communication. You need to repeat this each year that you are in the MSN program. Upload a certificate of completion of HIPAA training that you completed within the past 12 months. You need to repeat this each year that you are in the MSN program. Follow the directions on your CertifiedProfile account to obtain a picture identification badge that you are required to wear while you complete your practice experiences. You may do your practice experiences with more than one health care organization/facility. Some health care organizations/facilities require students to complete additional requirements before starting practice experiences. You need to document completion on your CertifiedProfile account of all additional requirements from the health care facility/organization where you want to do your practice experiences. If you want to complete your practice experiences where you are employed, you may ask your employer to sign and submit the Employer s Waiver of Practice Experiences Requirements form. This form is found in the Nursing Programs Practice Experiences Guide. BEFORE COMPLETING N512PE: Upload your CertifiedProfile report indicating that you completed the requirements for practice experiences or the signed employer s waiver to the appropriate weekly assignment area for the course. WHEN STARTING A COURSE THAT INCLUDES A PRECEPTED PRACTICE EXPERIENCE (PPE): Email the faculty of record for the course requesting approval of the site where you want to do the PPE and the name and contact information of your proposed preceptor. You may do your PPE at your place of employment. Your preceptor cannot be someone in a direct reporting relationship with you at your place of employment or someone who is related to you. Your preceptor must meet the requirements listed in the Practice Experiences Guide. If the proposed site for the PPE and the proposed preceptor are acceptable to the faculty of record, make the initial contact with the site and proposed preceptor to see if the site is willing for you to complete your PPE at the location. Provide the preceptor with the forms in the Preceptor Packet included in this Practice Experiences Guide. 22

Preceptors may NOT hold student status in the same degree program or in the same graduate or certificate program as the students being precepted. For example, an American Sentinel University MSN student cannot be precepted by another MSN student regardless of where the other student is enrolled. If the proposed site and/or proposed preceptor for the PPE are unacceptable to the faculty of record, you identify a different site and/or preceptor and send an email to the faculty of record with the new information. Contact the appropriate person at the proposed site for the practice experiences and ask them to email their Affiliation Agreement to academicservices@americansentinel.edu. Please Note: A Precepted Practice Experience (PPE) requires a signed Practice Experiences Site Affiliation Agreement form. Some sites may require completion of this form for other types of practice experiences based on the affiliating agency policy. DURNG A COURSE THAT INCLUDES A PRECEPTED PRACTICE EXPERIENCE (PPE): Engage in ongoing communication directly with your preceptor and the faculty of record during the PPE. Complete the PPE and receive a grade for the course from the faculty of record. 23

Confirming Completion of Certified Background Requirements At the start of a PE course that follows the course in which you completed your Certified Background requirements is an assignment you are required to complete a two-question quiz and click a button to submit the answers to the quiz. You are asked to click the button to certify that you have completed the Certified Background requirements. Once you answer yes to this question, you can access the course. This quiz has been embedded in all courses in which there are practice experiences. This is done to confirm that you have met the Certified Background requirements so that we can assure our healthcare partners and organizations where we have signed affiliation agreements that we comply with the conditions of the affiliation agreements. This is a compliance issue. To help you understand and meet these requirements we embedded clear instructions and sample documents in the courses so you know exactly what you need to do. The faculty of record in the courses will check to confirm that you have uploaded your Certified Background result document indicating that you are in compliance. If we discover that a student didn't complete the Certified Background actions and falsified his/her confirmation that it was completed, the issue will be handled through the University Academic Integrity Policy. 24

Practice Experiences Overview for the DNP Program Definition of Terms Practice Experiences are activities that you complete during the nursing courses in your program of study. Completion of the practice experiences ensures that you meet the course learning outcomes. For the DNP program, practice experiences are a combination of the following activities and experiences. Practice Learning Experiences (PLE) for the DNP program are course assignments that allow you to apply what you learn in a course. Example: For a course in the DNP Leadership program, you work with a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in the workplace to learn more about the financial aspect of healthcare. These hours count toward your total practice hours for the DNP program. Simulations (S) for the DNP program are practice experiences that involve participation in a variety of virtual settings. Example: Y o u participate in a virtual research symposium. These hours count toward your total practice hours for the DNP program. Precepted Practice Experiences (PPE) for the DNP program take place in your workplace or other healthcare facility or setting. PPEs require you to obtain a preceptor that meets the stated requirement for a preceptor and is employed at the healthcare facility or setting for the PPE. American Sentinel must obtain an affiliation agreement with each PPE facility or setting. You are required to complete specific requirements through your CertifiedProfile account. Example: During the Strategic Management course, you are precepted by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to help develop a strategic plan in the facility where you are employed. You participate in discussions with the leadership team. These hours count toward your total practice hours in the DNP program. Capstone Hours (CH) for the DNP program are practice experiences in the DNP Program that occur during your scholarly work on your Capstone Project and your weekly discussions with your Capstone Chair. Capstone hours also include the time you spend with your Capstone Chair doing a dress rehearsal for your proposal and final defense. Example: While working on your Capstone project for the DNP Executive Specialty Track, you analyze the data obtained from your project where you replicated a previous research study by administering a survey to staff nurses about workload. You discuss your findings with your Capstone Chair. These hours count toward your total practice hours for the DNP Program. 25

The Rationale for Practice Experience Hours in the DNP Program The DNP program includes 600 hours of integrative practice experiences and an intense practice immersion experience (DNP Essentials, 2006). Students carry out a practice applicationoriented final DNP project, which is an integral part of the integrative practice experience (DNP Essentials, 2006). AACN strongly suggests that 1,000 post-baccalaureate hours are needed to obtain a DNP degree. DNP practice experience hours are a combination of practice learning experiences (PLEs), precepted practice experiences (PPE), capstone hours (CH), and simulations (S). How the Practice Experience Process Works You must complete the required number of practice experience hours in each DNP course that contains practice experiences. In some courses you may select from several practice experience options as listed in the course syllabus to complete the required number of practice hours and fulfill the course outcomes. Also, you may send a request to the faculty of record that you be allowed to complete an alternative practice experience to fulfill the course outcomes and/or assignment/project criteria using the Practice Experiences Request Form. Written approval of the faculty of record is required before you can start an alternative practice experience. All practice experience activities must be completed by the end of the course for you to receive credit for the activities. All practice experiences are graded as pass/fail. Failed practice experience hours do not count toward the total number of practice hours required for a course and impact your ability to successfully complete the course. Please note: If you fail to complete the required practice hours for the course, you will receive a failing grade for the course. A practice learning experience hour is defined as the time you actually spend completing the practice experience assignment. You cannot work as a paid employee and receive credit for the same practice experiences hours. That is, you cannot be paid for competing practice experience hours when you are functioning in the capacity of a paid employee. If you are an employee at a practice experiences site or have any other formal relationship with the site, your role must be clearly defined in advance of the practice experience. When you inquire about the DNP program: The Admissions Department sends you a checklist of the required documentation for practice experiences in the DNP program. When you are Eligible to Enroll in the DNP program: In the Eligible to Enroll packet sent to you by the Admissions Department, you receive: Information about the requirements for the practice experiences for the DNP program. A checklist of documents/verification you need to submit during the N700PE course. A list of websites for companies that provide malpractice insurance for nursing students. Information about how you set up an individual Certified Profile account with Certified Background. 26

Requirement Yes/No AFTER STARTING N700PE: Establish an individual CertifiedProfile account with Certified Background and start to fulfill the requirements that need to be documented on your CertifiedProfile account. See the Nursing Programs Practice Experiences Guide for directions on how to set up this account. Obtain documentation on your CertifiedProfile account that you have a clear criminal background check as required by the state where your practice experiences will take place. Contact a vendor that provides individual malpractice insurance. (See list of possible vendors.) Purchase individual malpractice insurance with a minimum limit of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $3,000,000 aggregate coverage. Upload proof of individual malpractice insurance with a minimum limit of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $3,000,000 aggregate coverage. You need to renew your malpractice insurance each year that you are in the DNP program. Upload information to your CertifiedProfile account to prove that you hold an active and unencumbered RN license. You need to upload proof that your license remains current and unencumbered each year you are in the DNP program. Complete a health screen via a health history and physical examination conducted by and signed by a physician or nurse practitioner. You need to repeat this health screen each year that you are in the DNP program. Upload an immunization record validating that you are up to date with the required immunizations/vaccinations. Upload proof of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification. You need to repeat this certification each year that you are in the DNP program. Upload proof that you have health insurance, or a signed waiver verifying that you understand that you are responsible for all expenses related to illness or accidents that may occur while you participate in the DNP program. You need to repeat this each year that you are in the DNP program. Upload a certificate of completion of OSHA training that you completed within the past 12 months in connection with Blood-Bourne Pathogen and Hazard Communication. You need to repeat this each year that you are in the DNP program. 27

Upload a certificate of completion of HIPAA training that you completed within the past 12 months. You need to repeat this each year that you are in the DNP program. Follow the directions on your CertifiedProfile account to obtain a picture identification badge that you are required to wear while you complete your practice experiences. You may do your practice experiences with more than one healthcare organization/facility. Some healthcare organizations/facilities require students to complete additional requirements before starting practice experiences. You need to document completion on your CertifiedProfile account of all additional requirements from the healthcare facility/organization where you want to do your practice experiences. If you want to complete your practice experiences where you are employed, you may ask your employer to sign and submit the Employer s Waiver of Practice Experiences Requirements form. This form is found in the Nursing Programs Practice Experiences Guide. BEFORE COMPLETING N700PE: Upload your Certified Background report indicating that you completed the requirements for practice experiences to the appropriate weekly assignment area for the course. WHEN STARTING A COURSE THAT INCLUDES A PRECEPTED PRACTICE EXPERIENCE (PPE): Email the faculty of record for the course requesting approval of the site where you want to do the PPE and the name and contact information of your proposed preceptor. You may do your PPE at your place of employment. Your preceptor cannot be someone in a direct reporting relationship with you at your place of employment or someone who is related to you. Your preceptor must meet the requirements listed in the Practice Experiences Guide. Please note: Preceptors may NOT hold student status in the same degree program or in the same graduate or certificate program as the students being precepted. For example, an American Sentinel University DNP student cannot be precepted by another DNP student regardless of where the other student is enrolled. If the proposed site and/or proposed preceptor for the PPE are unacceptable to the faculty of record, you identify a different site and/or preceptor and send an email to the faculty of record with the new information. If the proposed site for the PPE and the proposed preceptor are acceptable to the faculty of record, make the initial contact with the site and proposed preceptor to see if the site is willing for you to complete your PPE at the location. Provide the preceptor with the forms in the Preceptor Packet included in this Practice Experiences Guide. 28

Contact the appropriate person at the proposed site for the practice experiences and ask them to email their Affiliation Agreement to academicservices@ameericansentinel.edu. Please Note: A Precepted Practice Experience (PPE) requires a signed Practice Experiences Site Affiliation Agreement form. Some sites may require completion of this form for other types of practice experiences based on the affiliating agency policy. DURING A COURSE THAT INCLUDES A PRECEPTED PRACTICE EXPERIENCE (PPE): Engage in ongoing communication directly with your preceptor and the faculty of record during the PPE. Complete the PPE and receive a grade for the course from the faculty of record. AT THE END OF A COURSE THAT INCLUDES A PRACTICE EXPERIENCE OTHER THAN CAPSTONE HOURS: Log your practice hours that include practice learning experiences (PLE), precepted practice experiences (PPE) and simulations (S) on the Practice Experience Record during the courses that include practice experiences. Upload your completed Practice Experience Record indicating that you completed the requirements for practice experiences to the appropriate weekly assignment area for the course. AT THE END OF A COURSE THAT INCLUDES CAPSTONE HOURS: Log your Capstone Hours (CH) on the Practice Experience Record during a course that includes Capstone Hours. Capstone hours do include the time that you spend working on your Capstone project with your Capstone Chair and doing your dress rehearsals for your proposal and final defense. Capstone hours do not include the time you spend writing your final paper. Email your completed Practice Experience Record that includes your Capstone Hours to your Capstone Chair for verification. Once you receive your completed Practice Experience Record that has been verified by your Capstone Chair, upload it to the appropriate weekly assignment area for the course. DNP Program Practice Experience Checklist Below is a checklist to help you verify that you have completed the activities required regarding practice experiences in the DNP Program. If you want to complete your practice experiences where you are employed, you may ask your employer to sign and submit the Employer s Waiver of Practice Experience Requirements form. This form is found in the Nursing Programs Practice Experiences Guide. Please contact your SSA for more information. 29

Confirming Completion of Certified Background Requirements At the start of a PE course that follows the course in which you completed your Certified Background requirements is an assignment you are required to complete a two-question quiz and click a button to submit the answers to the quiz. You are asked to click the button to certify that you have completed the Certified Background requirements. Once you answer yes to this question, you can access the course. This quiz has been embedded in all courses in which there are practice experiences. This is done to confirm that you have met the Certified Background requirements so that we can assure our healthcare partners and organizations where we have signed affiliation agreements that we comply with the conditions of the affiliation agreements. This is a compliance issue. To help you understand and meet these requirements we embedded clear instructions and sample documents in the courses so you know exactly what you need to do. The faculty of record in the courses will check to confirm that you have uploaded your Certified Background result document indicating that you are in compliance. If we discover that a student didn't complete the Certified Background actions and falsified his/her confirmation that it was completed, the issue will be handled through the University Academic Integrity Policy. 30

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Practice Experiences Questions For All Students Q: Why did the requirements for American Sentinel s nursing programs change? A: The requirements for the American Sentinel nursing programs changed because the programmatic accreditors (CCNE and ACEN) require that students in the RN to BSN, RN to BSN/MSN, MSN and DNP programs complete practice experiences in the nursing programs to enable students to achieve the required educational competencies (AACN White Paper, Oct. 2012; DNP Essentials for Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice, 2006; ACEN 2013 Standards). Q: Are practice experiences in the American Sentinel Nursing Programs like the clinical experiences I completed for my registered nurse degree? A: No, practice experiences do not involve hands-on patient care. They are designed to provide you with opportunities to apply the concepts and knowledge you learn in the nursing courses. Q: What is a CertifiedProfile from Certified Background? A: Certified Background provides CertifiedProfile, a secure document tracking and repository service that collects, tracks and monitors your required documentation for the practice experiences you are required to do during your nursing program at American Sentinel. This is a one-stop site for you to upload all of your required documents. You will have access to your documents after you graduate. CertifiedProfile monitors your posting of the required documents and contacts you (and American Sentinel) automatically if you need to update a document. Q: How do I order a CertifiedProfile account from Certified Background? A: During a specific course in the RN to BSN/MSN, MSN and DNP programs, you will be asked to create a Certified Background account and complete the process. Go to: http://americansentinel.certifiedbackground.com and click on the place order button in the middle of the page. If asked if you had a Certified Background account with a previous nursing school, DO NOT click yes, You need to establish a Certified Background account that is associated with American Sentinel University. You will be asked to select one of the following programs: RN to BSN/MSN, MSN, or DNP. If you are unsure, please contact your Student Service Advisor (SSA) before continuing. Click on the applicable program button. Then select the state where you reside and will be completing your practice experiences from the dropdown menu in the middle of the page. Based on your choice of state, a new dropdown menu will appear that will prompt you to select whether this is your first time placing an order or if you would like to order a recheck package. If this is the first time placing an order for a program at American Sentinel University, click that you are placing an order for the first time. Then on the following screen, please review the contents of your package, and check both boxes that appear at the bottom of the screen to show that you have read, understand, and agree to the terms and conditions. You are now ready to get started with your order. Click the continue order button, and you will be directed to set up your CertifiedProfile account. Q: When I go to the Certified Background site, it asks me for a package code. What should I do? A: You are on the wrong Certified Background website. You need to go to the website that 31

is associated with American Sentinel University. Go to: http://americansentinel.certifiedbackground.com and click on the place order button in the middle of the page. Q: How much will it cost for me to complete the requirements on my CertifiedProfile account? A: The cost for you to complete the requirements on your CertifiedProfile account depends on the nursing program in which you are enrolled and the location and requirements of state in which you reside andwant to complete your practice experiences. Q: What information do I need to enter into my CertifiedProfile account? A: In addition to entering your full name and date of birth, you will be asked to enter your Social Security Number, current address, phone number and email address into your CertifiedProfile account. Q: How do I pay for my CertifiedProfile account? A: At the end of the online order process, you will be prompted to enter your Visa or Mastercard information to pay for your CertifiedProfile account. Money orders are also accepted but will result in a $10 fee and an additional turnaround-time. Q: How will I get my background results from my CertifiedProfile account? A: Your background results will be posted directly to your CertifiedProfile account. You will be notified if there is any missing information needed in order to process your order. Although 95% of background check results are completed within 3-5 business days, some results may take longer. Your order will show as In Process until it has been completed in its entirety. The necessary personnel at American Sentinel can also securely view your results online with their unique username and password. Q: Can the time I spend while I am at work at my place of employment count as practice hours for a course? A: No, your practice hours must be completed outside of your hours of employment at the healthcare organization/facility. Q: Do I need to wear a uniform when completing practice experience hours in a healthcare facility? A: No, it is unnecessary for you to wear a uniform when completing practice experience hours at a healthcare facility. You should wear business professional clothes. You need to wear the American Sentinel University picture ID badge that you obtained from Certified Background whenever you are on site at a healthcare organization/facility for a practice experience. Instructions on how to obtain a picture ID badge are provided through your CertifiedProfile account. Q: If I am working as a registered nurse at the same healthcare organization/facility where I want to do my practice experiences and they have information about me in my employee file, why do I have to get another background check, verify immunizations, etc? A: If you want to complete your practice experiences where you are employed, you may ask your employer to sign and submit the Employer s Waiver of Practice Experiences Requirements form. This form is found in the Nursing Programs Practice Experiences Guide. You will not need to complete any of the requirements that your employer checks (waives). You will need to complete all the requirements for your programs that your employer does not check (waive). 32

Q: What if I want to or need to do my practice experiences at more than one facility/site? A: You may do your practice experiences with more than one healthcare organization/facility. The requirements you completed through your CertifiedProfile account will be sufficient unless the other healthcare facilities have additional requirements. You need to fulfill the requirements for every healthcare organization/facility where you plan to complete your practice experiences. Q: What if the site/facility where I want to do my practice experiences has more requirements than are listed for the nursing program I enrolled in? A: Some healthcare organizations/facilities require students to complete additional specific requirements before they are allowed to start practice experiences. For example, some organizations require students to complete a drug screen. You need to document completion any additional requirements from the healthcare facility/organization where you want to complete your practice experiences. Q: If I don t take a course at American Sentinel for longer than eight months (which classifies me as an academic withdrawal under the University continuous enrollment policy), will I need to get a new degree plan? A: Yes, if you do not take courses for a period that is longer than eight months, you need to get a new degree plan and follow that plan. You CANNOT USE your original degree plan. Q: If I don t take a course at American Sentinel for less than eight months, will I need to get a new degree plan? A: No, since your break from taking courses is less than eight months, you DO NOT need to get a new degree plan. You WILL USE your original degree plan. Q: I started taking courses in my program but have heard that some of the new courses that are not included in my degree plan are good and include practice hours. Can I get a new degree plan that includes the new courses and does not make me retake the courses that I have already completed? Can I pick and choose which new courses I want to take? A: Yes, you can get a new degree plan that includes the new courses that include practice hours and you will not be required to retake the courses that you have already completed. However, you cannot pick and choose which of the new courses you want to take. You need to complete all the courses included in your new degree plan and cannot revert back to your previous degree plan. Q: If my RN licensure is valid for more than one year, do I still need to verify each year that it is active and unencumbered? A: Yes. It is possible that a person could have a valid RN license on January 1 that is valid for three years and do something that causes that person to lose the license several months later. It is an accreditation requirement that American Sentinel confirms that our students remain licensed to practice as registered nurses. Q: Why do I need to purchase malpractice insurance if I already have it through my place of employment where I will be doing my practice experiences? A: The malpractice insurance you have through your employer covers you while you work as an employee of the organization. When you are in the role of an American Sentinel nursing student completing practice experiences at your place of employment or any other healthcare setting, you need to have your own malpractice insurance to cover you while you are in a healthcare setting as a student. 33

Q: I haven t taken a course at American Sentinel for longer than eight months (which classifies me as an academic withdrawal under the University continuous enrollment policy) and I want to re-enroll in a nursing program. My new degree plan includes nursing courses that involve practice experiences. Who will email me the appropriate information? A: When you re-enroll in a nursing program after an academic withdrawal, the Associate Dean, Nursing Programs will email the CertifiedProfile information from Certified Background information after being notified by the Reenrollment Advisor that you have reenrolled in a nursing program. Q: When will the courses that have been replaced in the RN to BSN, RN to MSN and MSN programs be retired and not offered by the University? A: Courses that have been replaced in the RN to BSN, RN to MSN and MSN programs will be retired and not offered by the University after December 31, 2015. Q: How will students that have not taken courses at American Sentinel for longer than four months but less than eight months know that they need to resume taking courses at the University within a determined period time to be able to resume taking courses at the University under their initial degree plan? A: A letter will be sent to students that have not taken courses at American Sentinel for longer than four months but less than eight months to inform them that they need to resume taking courses at the University within a determined period time to be able to continue taking courses under their initial degree plan. Q: I have had my CertifiedProfile account in place for a year. I received an email from Certified background that I need to upload proof that I have renewed some of the requirements that must be met each year. What should I do? A: After a year, there is a fee to renew some of the requirements that must be updated each year, for example, malpractice insurance, CPR certification, etc. Questions for RN to BSN/MSN, MSN and DNP Students Q: If I am not currently employed, how can I get a Precepted Practice Experience site to do my practice hours? A: Contact the healthcare organizations in your area to see if they are willing to let you do your Precepted Practice Experiences in their organization. Q: Can my preceptor be someone who works for me or someone I work for where I am employed? A: No, your preceptor for Precepted Practice Experiences cannot be someone in a direct reporting relationship with you at your place of employment or someone who is related to you. Q: If I enrolled in a MSN specialty track before January 1, 2014 and decide to switch MSN specializations, will I be required to get a new degree plan? A: No, most students will not need to get new degree plans. However, if students are entitled to transfer credit for the new specialization, they will need new degree plans that include practice experience hours. Q: If I decide to switch from a RN to BSN to a RN to MSN program, will I be required to get a new degree plan? A: Yes, if you make the switch after April 1, 2014, it is necessary for you to get a new degree plan that includes the courses that you need to complete to obtain the MSN 34

degree. Q: If I decide to switch from a RN to MSN to a RN to BSN program, will I be required to get a new degree plan? A: Yes, if you make the switch after April 1, 2014, it will be necessary for you to get a new degree plan that includes the courses that you need to complete to obtain the BSN degree. Q: I have not taken courses at the University for more than eight months and want to re-enroll in a MSN specialty track. Before I left American Sentinel, I completed all of the core courses for the MSN program. Do I need a new degree plan and do I need to take the new MSN core courses? A: Yes, if you have not taken courses at the University for more than eight months and want to re-enroll in a MSN specialty track you need a new degree plan. However, since you completed all of the core MSN courses prior to your absence from taking courses at the University, you do not need to take the new MSN core courses if you resume taking courses before December 31, 2015. Q: I have not taken courses at the University for more than eight months and want to re-enroll in a MSN specialty track. Before I left American Sentinel, I completed one or more but not of all the core courses for the MSN program. Do I need a new degree plan and do I need to take the new MSN core courses? A: If you have not taken courses at the University for more than eight months and want to re-enroll in a MSN specialty track, you need to obtain a new degree plan. However, if you completed N505 and/or N515 at American Sentinel within the past 10 years, you will receive equivalency credit for that/those course(s) but need to take the remaining core MSN courses (N501PE, N512, N521, N522PE). Q: I am a new student that took some MSN courses at another educational institution. Can I transfer in any nursing courses? A: Yes, you may transfer in nursing courses that you have taken within the past 10 years if they are deemed comparable to the MSN courses in the current specialization tracks after an evaluation of those courses. Q: I have completed the current MSN core courses but want to take one or more of the following courses: N501PE, N512, N521, and/or N522PE. Can I do this? A: Yes, you can take any or all of those courses, as single courses, after completion of the remaining courses in your degree plan but you need to explore the financial implications of your decision. Questions for RN to BSN Students Q: Do I need to do practice experiences in the RN to BSN program? A. Yes, you need to complete 90 hours of practice experiences in the RN to BSN program. Q: Do I need to establish a Certified Background account before I complete the practice experience hours in the RN to BSN program? A. No, you do not need to establish a Certified Background account before completing the practice experience hours in the RN to BSN program. Q: Can my mentor be someone who works for me or someone I work for where I am employed? A: No, your mentor cannot be someone in a direct reporting relationship with you at your place of employment or someone who is related to you. Q: I have not taken courses at the University for more than eight months and want 35

to re-enroll in the RN to BSN program. Will I need to get a new degree plan and will I get transfer credit for any of the courses I completed before I left the University? A: Yes, you will need to get a new degree plan. The following courses will be considered as equivalent: BSN420 = BSN421PE; BNS 425 and BSN430 = BSN432PE. If you only completed BSN425 you will need to take BSN432PE. You will need to also take BSN437PE as part of your degree plan. Q: I enrolled in the RN to BSN program before April 1. 2013 and my degree plan did not require me to take 30 credits of general education. I have not taken courses at the University for more than eight months and want to re-enroll in the RN to BSN program. Will I need to get a new degree plan and will I need to complete or transfer in 30-credits of general education? A: Yes, you will need to get a new degree plan and yes you will need to complete or transfer in 30 credits of general education. 36

Blood-Borne Pathogen and Hazard Communication Training Anyone who works in or is placed in a facility where exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials may take place is required to receive annual training according to the bloodborne standard mandated by Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). All students enrolled in the RN to BSN/MSN, MSN and DNP programs are required to upload an OSHA training certificate that was completed within the past 12 months to their CertifiedProfile account. This certification must be renewed each year you are enrolled in the American Sentinel RN to BSN/MSN, MSN or DNP programs. You may upload a certificate of completion to your CertifiedProfile account from an employer if you completed the training as part of an annual requirement at your place of employment. If you need to complete the training, the following two websites offer training: Free-Training.com: http://www.free-training.com/osha/soshamenu.htm Hazard Communication. The course is free. Do not insert your social security number. OSHAcademy Occupational Safety & Health Training: http://www.oshatrain.org/courses/index.html Blood-borne pathogens Course number 755. It is listed under free courses; however there is a fee for the PDF certificate of completion. Please note: American Sentinel does not endorse any OSHA training sites, but the sites above appear to meet all of the requirements for OSHA training. Training is at the expense of the student. In addition, you must follow the facility and agency policy on Blood Borne Pathogen control and exposure for all practice experiences. Confidentiality Training Students must adhere to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) policies in all practice experience environments. This act requires that individually identifiable patient information be disclosed only on a need to know basis. Students are required to meet any and all of the practice experience agency s requirements regarding HIPAA. You are required to upload a certificate of completion for HIPAA training within the past 12 months to your CertifiedProfile accounts. This certification must be renewed each year you are enrolled in the American Sentinel RN to BSN/MSN, MSN or DNP programs. You may upload a certificate of completion to your CertifiedProfile account from an employer if you completed the training as part of an annual requirement at your place of employment. 37

If you need HIPAA training, the following websites offer the training. Please note that American Sentinel does not endorse any HIPAA training sites, but the sites below appear to meet all of the requirements for HIPAA training. Training is at the expense of the student. HIPAA Training.com: http://www.hipaatraining.com/heatlhcareproviders.aspx HIPAA General Awareness Training Course My HIPAA Training: http://myhipaatraing.com/ Basic HIPAA Training Course In addition, you must follow the facility and agency policy regarding confidentiality for all practice experiences. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Training Students enrolled in the RN to BSN/MSN and DNP programs must upload proof of completion of the American Heart Association Healthcare Provider level cardiopulmonary (CPR) course to your CertifiedProfile account. You may upload a certificate of completion to your CertifiedProfile account from an employer if you completed the training as part of an annual requirement at your place of employment. Please note: Be sure to copy and upload both sides of your CPR card and ensure that you have signed the card. 38

Practice Experiences Record Student Course Name and Number DATE PRACTICE EXPERIENCE ACTIVITY # HOURS INITIALS Preceptor Signature (if Precepted Practice Experience [PPE]) Date Student Signature Date Faculty Signature Date 39

Request for Practice Experiences Please complete this form, submit in Assignment One for faculty review and approval. All practice experiences must be approved to obtain course credit for these experiences. Student Course Name and Number DATE BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED PRACTICE EXPERIENCE AS RELATED TO THE COURSE LEARNING OUTCOMES HOURS Faculty comments: Student Signature Date Faculty Signature Date 40

Practice Experiences Reflective Journal Instructions The purpose of reflective journaling is for you to have an opportunity to connect course content with experiential learning. Reflective journaling provides focus on the lessons learned through a succinct and meaningful process. The overarching goal of all Practice Experiences is to integrate practical learning experiences into your professional practice through self-development. This format enhances critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and clinical judgment through use of the nursing process. Instructions for Reflective Journaling: 1. Maintain patient, employee, and organizational confidentiality at all times. Use only initials throughout the journal when referring to a specific patient, employee, organization or other entity. 2. Journal entries are submitted electronically within the assigned course by the specified due dates. 3. Reflective journal entries should be no longer than two pages for approximately one day of activity, provided the day s length is 6 12 hours. 4. Critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and clinical judgment need to be evidenced in your reflective writing. This should include: a. Your reaction to the learning experience b. Your achievement of University principles, program outcomes, and course or topic learning objectives c. Incorporate theoretical content from the course in each learning experience reflection d. Relate your experiences to your own professional learning and the potential impact on your professional nursing practice e. If appropriate, add any additional experiential learning reflections aligned with achieving your academic goal. In particular, include content that may be beneficial to complete final course or program learning requirements. f. Cite references in APA, including at least one professional nursing journal article to support your analysis 41

Practice Experiences Reflective Journal Documentation Form This is the form required for completing the documentation required for all Practice Experiences in the Nursing Programs at American Sentinel University. Please refer to the Instruction Sheet to Complete Practice Experiences Documentation for additional information and guidance. Demographic Information: Student Name Course Mentor/Preceptor, if required Provide a brief summary of all practice experience activities: DATE START TIME STOP TIME Practice Experience Activity 42

Your Reaction to this Practice Experience: In this section, Reflective Journaling you will respond to the following: 1. Select a couple key learning experiences (2 3). Reflect on your practice learning experiences. Why were these practice experiences meaningful to you? 2. Summarize application of course content to your key learning experiences. 3. Relate practice experiences to your professional learning and its potential impact on your professional nursing practice. 4. Articulate achievement of your course Practice Experience Student Learning Outcomes. 5. Cite references in APA format. Include professional nursing journal articles in support of your analysis as outlined in the Practice Experiences Grading Rubric. Reflective Journaling: (Write your reflective journaling here including items 1 4.) References (In APA format) 43

Practice Experiences Grading Rubric Criteria Pass Fail Student completes Practice Experiences Plan on time and submits within online course. time. Student completes Practice Experiences Plan on time and submits within online course. Student completes Practice Experiences hours as required for course and submits documentation within online course. Student completes a paragraph summary of practice experiences. Student completes Practice Experiences Self Reflection demonstrating understanding of theory to practice application. Student s completed Practice Experiences Self Reflection includes at least 3 external scholarly references informing, supporting or refuting knowledge gained through this assignment. Student completes Practice Experiences hours as required for course and submits documentation within online course. Student completes a paragraph summary of practice experiences. Student completes Practice Experiences Self Reflection demonstrating understanding of theory to practice application. Student s completed Practice Experiences Self Reflection includes at least 3 external scholarly references informing, supporting or refuting knowledge gained through this assignment. Practice Experiences Verification Student did not complete Practice Experiences Plan on Student did not complete Practice Experiences hours as required for course and submits documentation. Student did not complete a paragraph summary of practice experiences. Student did not complete Practice Experiences Self Reflection demonstrating understanding of theory to practice application. Student did not complete Practice Experiences Self Reflection with at least 3 external scholarly references informing, supporting, or refuting knowledge gained through this assignment. I,, faculty of record for (Faculty Member Name) (Course Number and Course Name) verify receipt of Practice Experiences documentation and self (Student s Name) reflection assignment equal to hours of the course required hours. (Number) (Number) The student has passed this course s required practice experience. (Faculty Member s Signature) (Date) 44

Precepted Practice Experience Evaluation Each preceptor contributes to the evaluation of the student s performance during the precepted practice experiences. An evaluation form specific to the course outcomes is available within the course. The student provides the preceptor with the evaluation form. The preceptor returns the completed form to the faculty of record via email. The faculty of record, with input from the preceptor, is responsible for assigning a pass/fail designation for the practice experience. Students must satisfy all course objectives at the final evaluation to successfully pass the practice requirements of the precepted practice experience. Contents of Preceptor Packet The Preceptor Packet includes the following documents. The entire Preceptor Packet is included later in this Guide. Prospective Preceptor Welcome Letter American Sentinel University Mission, Vision, Values, and Principles American Sentinel University Nursing Programs Philosophy American Sentinel University Preceptor Application and Agreement American Sentinel University Expectations of Nurse Preceptor Preceptor Thank You Letter Sample Preceptor Feedback of Student Form Student Evaluation of Practice Experiences Site Form Student Practice Experience Record Form 45

Preceptor Qualifications Must have a minimum of a degree higher than your degree or a doctoral degree is you are in the DNP program. Must be currently licensed to practice as a registered nurse in the state where the precepted practice experience takes place. May not be someone in a direct reporting relationship with you at your place of employment or someone who is related to you. May not hold student status in the same degree program or in the same graduate certificate program as you. Preceptor Responsibilities 1. Professional Role Model and Mentor a. Provide teaching/learning experiences according to established standards and facility policy and procedures. b. Effectively communicate with student and others. c. Exhibit leadership skills. d. Demonstrate professional responsibilities. e. Model exemplary ethical behavior and enthusiasm for the profession. 2. Educator a. Assess the student learning needs in collaboration with the student and faculty of record. b. Collaborate with the student to plan effective learning experiences. c. Provide ongoing feedback of the student. i. Collaborate with faculty of record to evaluate the student s performance. Faculty of record determines the final evaluation of the practice experience after collaboration with the preceptor. ii. A satisfactory preceptor evaluation is required for the student to complete the course. 3. Socializer a. Welcome the student and actively integrate the student into the practice setting. b. Assist the student to transition smoothly to the nursing role. 46

i. Note: Students with any condition (regardless of cause) that impairs their judgment and ability to function are not permitted in any practice setting. 4. Interact with American Sentinel University Course Faculty of Record and related Program Administration [i.e. Dean, Associate Deans, Chairs, Senior Administrative Support, Academic Services]. a. Interact with faculty of record by phone or email at the beginning of course (Week 1), mid-term (Week 5), and with the final evaluation (Week 8). The call or email will be initiated by the faculty of record. b. Contact the faculty of record and related Program Administration for concerns, problems, or incidents involving the student. 5. Student Schedules a. Total number of precepted hours is determined by the course or program. The practice experience will conclude when the student has completed the minimum required hours. The online course will continue for the entire eight weeks. b. The student can only work with the contracted Preceptor. Any change in Preceptor must be approved by the Associate Dean prior to any change. c. The student must notify the Preceptor and the faculty of record of any student absence. Missed hours need to be made up by the student. d. Each student must receive an orientation to the practice site (as appropriate.) 6. Feedback of Student Performance a. Assess student progress through completion of the Preceptor Feedback of Student form at the completion of the experience. a. Inform the student s faculty of record of concerns related to practice experience by the student, or if the student is having difficulty meeting the requirements of the practice experience. 47

Student Responsibilities 1. Be prepared for each day of the practice experience. Preparation includes: a. Wear attire as appropriate for the practice setting. When participating in practice experiences or connecting with the public related to assignments, you are required to wear the American Sentinel nursing student identification badge you obtained through Certified Background. b. Bring the tools to perform activities according to the syllabus. c. Conduct practice without discrimination on the basis of age, race, religion, gender, and nation of origin, sexual orientation, or handicap. d. Respect the dignity and rights of clients regardless of social or economic status, personal attributes or nature of health problems. e. Respect the property of individuals and facilities. 2. Professionally represent the American Sentinel University Nursing Programs. Student critical professional behaviors include: a. Demonstrate respect for peers, colleagues and faculty. b. Demonstrate personal maturity; be goal directed and able to make decisions and take action. c. Be flexible in adapting to change. d. Accept and provide constructive suggestions. e. Manage personal circumstances. f. Accept responsibility for own behavior. g. Demonstrate corrective behavior when given feedback. h. Refrain from starting or continuing a practice experience if a student s physical or emotional condition is a threat to the patient and/or others. i. Engage in nursing practice with the expected level of knowledge and skill, and that of the institutional, professional, legal, and ethical guidelines. j. Engage in nursing practice in accordance with honesty and accuracy in written and verbal communication, including but not limited to errors of omission or commission. k. Respect patient s right to privacy by protecting confidential information. l. Accept individual responsibility and accountability for actions. m. Seek appropriate supervision and/or consultation when necessary. 3. Seek out experiences that build nursing competencies. 4. Cooperate with your preceptor. 48

5. Accept the preceptor s supervision, teaching and guidance. 6. Seek out opportunities to complete assignments. 7. Ask for assistance and support from the preceptor when necessary. 8. Make good use of the preceptor s time, ask questions, access resources. 9. Communicate with the preceptor and complete documentation as assigned. 10. Notify instructor and the facility in advance of any absence from or tardiness to the practice setting prior to the scheduled practice experience. If the student is unable to contact the preceptor, the faculty of record or the Associate Dean should be notified. Faculty of Record Responsibilities 1. Communicate with the preceptor at each practice experience as required by course syllabus. 2. Prepare the student to be a guest in the facility. 3. Orient the student and preceptor to their roles. 4. Guide the preceptor in his/her role. Confer with the preceptor to resolve problems, offer suggestions, give support, and request feedback about student progress. 5. Assist the preceptor to identify appropriate learning experiences for the student. 6. Be available by phone for consultation while the student is at the practice experience site. 7. Be actively available for student questions and guidance. 8. Evaluate the student s performance and assign the student a pass/fail grade for the practice experience with input from the preceptor and the student. 49

2260 S. Xanadu Way, Ste. 310 Aurora, CO 80014 www.americansentinel.edu 800.729.2427 Practice Experience Site Affiliation Agreement This Affiliation Agreement is entered into between American Sentinel University, LLC (hereinafter referred to as School ) located at 2260 S. Xanadu Way, Suite 310 Aurora, CO 80014 and [insert name of Facility] (hereinafter referred to as Facility ), located at [insert full address] and is effective on the day of, 20 ( Effective Date ) for a one-year term and will automatically renew for subsequent one-year terms unless either party provides a notice of non-renewal to the other party thirty (30) days prior to the end of any term. Recitals WHEREAS, School offers a program of study in Nursing and desires that its students complete Precepted Practice Experiences ( Precepted Practice Experiences ) to obtain experience at Facility in furtherance of the School s program(s). Facility has agreed to make its location(s) available to School and its students for this purpose. NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements herein contained and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows: School and Facility Responsibilities 1. School has full responsibility for the academic content of the Precepted Practice Experiences and the credit granted for its satisfactory completion, and School and Facility will agree in advance of the start date of the Precepted Practice Experiences on the specific studies and research that will occur. 2. The student shall be directly supervised by an employee of Facility who is approved in advance by the School and meets Facility s requirements for such position. The student s supervisor shall not be an employee of School or a currently enrolled student of School. 3. The parties will mutually agree to the number of students that can participate in the Precepted Practice Experiences prior to the start date. 50

4. School will advise its students and each faculty member (if on site) to comply with all of Facility s policies and procedures, including but not limited to the requirement to keep all patient related medical information confidential and to comply with the Facility s policy regarding the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). 5. School will advise its students and each faculty member (if on site) to comply with any of Facility s requirements regarding criminal background checks and malpractice insurance. Facility shall provide students a copy of its policy regarding background checks and malpractice insurance and shall instruct students to comply with said policy; any costs for the background check and malpractice insurance are at the students expense. Facility shall apply the same criteria to students and faculty members as they do to Facility employees under their current hiring practices. School will advise students and faculty members that as a result of a criminal background check, Facility may reject any student or faculty member and bar them from the Facility in accordance with Facility policies. Background checks and proof of malpractice insurance, if required, need to be completed before the start of the Precepted Practice Experiences. 6. School will advise its students and all faculty members (if on site) to comply with any requirements of Facility regarding immunizations. Any immunizations required which faculty members or students do not yet have must be obtained prior to beginning the Precepted Practice Experiences and the cost for the immunization shall be paid for by the students or students' own medical coverage. 7. Facility will provide an appropriate orientation to the students and faculty members (if on site) and advise them of all applicable rules and regulations including orientation to the risk of exposure to blood borne viral diseases such as HBV/HIV and to other communicable diseases; to chemical and other environmental hazards in compliance with federal hazard communications regulations; to fire safety procedures at the Facility; and to provide basic training on the confidentiality and privacy requirements of the federal HIPAA law. The orientation will be completed prior to the start of the Precepted Practice Experiences. 8. Facility shall provide a safe physical facility and environment in addition to adequate instruction, supervision, guidance and evaluation of students. The Facility shall complete and promptly return any evaluations requested by School. Both parties agree to cooperate with each other and share information in the event that any investigation is conducted with respect to a student s experience or performance at Facility. Students may be asked to sign a form granting School and Facility permission to share information relevant to their experience or performance. 51

9. Facility may terminate students or faculty members (if on site) from participating in Precepted Practice Experiences if Facility determines in its sole opinion and discretion that the students conduct or work with clients, patients or personnel is not in accordance with acceptable standards of performance. 10. Upon request of School, Facility shall provide meeting space for the use of students and faculty members (if on site) subject to availability and provide them the privilege of using libraries, lounges, cafeterias, rest rooms, etc. on the same basis as Facility employees. 11. School will advise its students and faculty (if on site) that it is the responsibility of the students and faculty to pay for the cost of their own health insurance and medical costs as Facility is not providing any such insurance for them. 12. If applicable, Facility shall make available to students and faculty members (if on site) any necessary emergency care for injuries or illnesses arising out of their program participation. Applicable insurance policies may be billed for the provision of these services. 13. School will advise its students that Facility does not consider them to be employees. If Facility is paying any students, the individual student is responsible to make all required withholdings for state and federal income tax purposes. At all times, neither students nor faculty members (if on site) are considered employees of Facility. 14. The School is responsible at all times for the negligent and willful acts and omissions of its employees and agents, including its faculty. In addition, the Facility is responsible at all times for the negligent and willful acts and omissions of its employees and agents. 15. Facility shall indemnify, hold harmless and defend School, its officers, directors, employees and agents from and against any and all losses, liabilities, claims, damages, causes of action, costs and expenses, including reasonable attorneys fees and litigation costs arising from Facility s breach of any covenants or obligations set forth in this Agreement. This obligation shall survive the termination of this Agreement. 16. School shall indemnify, hold harmless and defend Facility, its officers, directors, employees and agents from and against any and all losses, liabilities, claims, damages, causes of action, costs and expenses, including reasonable attorneys fees and 52

litigation costs arising from School s breach of any covenants or obligations set forth in this Agreement. This obligation shall survive the termination of this Agreement. 17. When a Facility has patients in its care, the ultimate responsibility for the care of patients and the direction of Facility s operation is with Facility. 18. School shall provide and maintain comprehensive general liability insurance in the amount of $1,000,000 per occurrence $3,000,000 aggregate. In addition, School shall maintain professional liability insurance that covers the School, all students, and instructors at the School. The blanket professional liability insurance policy will be in the amount of not less than $1,000,000 per claim/$3,000,000 aggregate. The School shall provide a certificate of insurance at the request of Facility. 19. Facility shall provide and maintain comprehensive professional and general liability insurance of not less than $1,000,000 per occurrence and $3,000,000 in the aggregate as well as excess liability insurance of not less than $1,000,000. A certificate of insurance evidencing such insurance coverage shall be provided to School. To the extent permitted by Facility s insurance policy, the general liability insurance shall name as additional insured, Education Management Corporation, its schools, directors, subsidiaries, officers, employees, assigns, agents and board members. 20. In the event a preceptor is utilized at the Facility, the preceptor shall comply with all applicable state board requirements and other responsibilities agreed to by the parties. B. General Provisions 1. This agreement may be terminated by either party with or without cause by providing thirty (30) days written notice to the other party. In the event of termination during a Precepted Experiences, Facility will allow students to complete their Precepted Experiences. 2. The parties to this Agreement are independent contractors. Neither School nor any of its faculty, students or employees shall hold themselves out as employees, agents or partners of Facility. In addition, neither Facility, nor any of its faculty, students or employees shall hold themselves out as employees, agents or partners of School. 3. There shall be no monetary consideration paid by either party to the other, it being acknowledged that the Preception provided hereunder is mutually beneficial. 4. Each party agrees in the performance of this Agreement not to discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual 53

orientation, or any other basis prohibited by law in the jurisdiction in which the Agreement is to be performed. 5. Notices. Any and all notices required shall be deemed delivered when received by registered, certified or express mail to: If to School: If to Facility: Mailing Address: Phone: Phone: Fax: Fax: Email: Email: 6. This Agreement contains the entire agreement between the parties and supersedes all prior agreements and understandings, oral or written, with respect to the subject matter hereof. 54

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Agreement to be executed as of the Effective Date set forth above. For and on behalf of: FACILITY: Signature: Print Name and Title: Date: American Sentinel University, LLC: Judy Burckhardt, PhD, MAEd, MSN, RN American Sentinel University Dean, Nursing Programs 2260 S. Xanadu Way, Suite 310, Aurora, CO 80014 Phone: Direct 303.223.4767 Main 800.729.2427 Fax 866.505.2450 Date: 55

2260 S. Xanadu Way, Ste. 310 Aurora, CO 80014 www.americansentinel.edu 800.729.2427 Nursing Student Health Form NURSING STUDENT HEALTH ASSESSMENT DATA Name Date / / Address Date of Birth / / Male Female Phone Please note: This health assessment must be completed and signed by an MD, DO, PA or ARNP. Assessment by other healthcare providers will NOT be accepted. To the examining medical practitioner: This applicant is a student in the nursing program at American Sentinel University. To ensure the health and safety of patients and other healthcare providers while enrolled, this person will be: required to participate in a rigorous academic program; involved in stressful situations on a one-to-one basis; called upon to work with groups of people in stressful situations; required to effectively use all sensory organs; engage in activities that require above-average manual dexterity; and required to be on his/her feet for four to eight consecutive hours at one time. PHYSICAL ASSESSMENT Height Weight Vital Signs: BP P R Temperature Visual Acuity (R) (L) Uses Eyeglasses YES NO Uses contact lens YES NO Hearing Acuity (R) (L) Uses hearing aid YES NO PHYSICAL EXAMINATION RECORD ALLERGIES: Drug Other MEDICATIONS: HABITS: LIMITATIONS/SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS: No Yes 56

Describe: REVIEW OF SYSTEMS EYES: ENT: NECK: LUNGS: HEART: BREAST: ABDOMEN: RECTAL (may be deferred): PELVIC (may be deferred): EXTREMITIES: NEURO: MEDICAL HISTORY MAJOR ILLNESSES: PAST HISTORY MEDICAL: Cardiac: Diabetes: Respiratory: Cancer: Learning Disability: Hypertension Other MEDICAL PROBLEMS, TREATMENTS, DATES: 57

SURGICAL: FAMILY HISTORY: Please list all past accidents, overnight hospitalizations, surgeries and dates: IMMUNIZATION VERIFICATION** NAME: DOB: Tuberculin Skin Test (PPD) Required annually and must be 0 mm. If POS, repeat TB test not required, but must have CXR within five years. DATE ASSESSMENT / _/_ mm /_ /_ mm (update) (Initials) / /_ mm (update) (Initials) Tetanus Vaccination /TDAP Required every 10 years. /_ /_ /_ /_ (update) (Initials) Recombivax (Hep B Vaccination) 58

Hep B Surface antibody positive: YES NO # 1 / /_ NOTES: # 2 / /_ NOTES: # 3 / /_ NOTES: Influenza Vaccination Prior to any clinical experience and annually. # 1 / / # 2 / / # 3 / / MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) Evidence of Immunity: Rubella Titer POS NEG Date of vaccine if negative titer Rubeola Titer POS NEG Date of vaccine if negative titer Mumps Titer POS NEG Date of vaccine if negative titer Varicella Titer POS NEG Date of vaccine if negative titer Based upon standard history and physical exam findings, this applicant is free from communicable diseases and able to provide patient care services. All immunization dates above are hereby certified and all other medical records of this applicant are on file at the physician s office. HEALTHCARE PROVIDER S SIGNATURE DATE 59

HEALTHCARE PROVIDER S NAME PRINTED TELEPHONE NUMBER HEALTHCARE PROVIDER S ADDRESS ALL immunization requirements MUST be met prior to registration into any course with a precepted practice experience component in the American Sentinel University Nursing Program unless approved special circumstances exist. By signing this statement, the applicant provides a waiver for the American Sentinel University Nursing Program faculty and staff to maintain and release immunization and tuberculosis screening results. STUDENT S SIGNATURE CERTIFICATION OF HEALTH STATUS I hereby certify that I have examined and that he/she is physically and emotionally able to participate as a nursing student. To the best of my knowledge, on this date, I have determined that he/she is free from any health impairment that is of potential risk to patients or that might interfere with the performance of his/her duties, including the habituation or addiction to depressants, stimulants, narcotics, alcohol, or other drugs or substances that may alter the individual s behavior. COMMENTS OF EXAMINER: Signature of Examining MD/DO/NP/PA: Type or Print Name and Title: Date: Street Address: City/State/Zip: 60

2260 S. Xanadu Way, Ste. 310 Aurora, CO 80014 www.americansentinel.edu 800.729.2427 Acknowledgement of Health Insurance Liability American Sentinel University requires that nursing students carry health insurance or sign a waiver to verify an understanding that they are responsible for all expenses related to illness or accidents that may occur while participating in the American Sentinel University nursing program. Many healthcare facilities and agencies require proof of health insurance coverage prior to students starting precepted practice experiences. Students who do not submit proof of current health insurance or a signed waiver of health insurance prior to completion of the course that requires it will receive an incomplete for the course and be unable to continue in the nursing program. By signing this Acknowledgement of Health Insurance Liability form, you understand and agree to the following: Practice Experiences in healthcare settings assume certain risks, including the possibility of exposure to an infectious disease, injury from equipment or medical materials, and illness or injury to oneself, employees, patients or visitors. I understand that American Sentinel University and its affiliates (the precepted practice experience sites(s) ) do not provide any accident, malpractice, health, medical, or workers compensation insurance coverage for any illness or injury I may acquire or cause at a practicum or practice learning site. I acknowledge and as consideration for the opportunity to participate in precepted practice experiences at precepted practice experience sites, I hereby waive, for myself or any heirs and/or assigns, any and all claims which I might have against the precepted practice experience sites, or their agents or representatives, in any way resulting from personal injuries, illness, or property damage sustained by me and arising out of my participation in the precepted practice experiences at the practice experience sites, except for claims arising out of the gross negligence or reckless or willful misconduct of the practice experience site(s) or their employees. In the event I am exposed to blood or other bodily fluids from a patient who is a carrier of a contagious or infectious disease or a patient who is, in the judgment of the practice experience site(s), at risk of carrying a contagious or infectious disease, the practice experience site(s) shall, with my consent, either administer 61

immediate precautionary treatment consistent with current medical practice or refer me to an Emergency Room. I acknowledge that I am legally responsible for any and all medical expenses I may incur during my enrollment at American Sentinel University and while engaged in precepted practice experience site(s). The practice experience site(s) shall have no responsibility for any further diagnosis, medication or treatment and I acknowledge and assume the risk or working with patients at risk of carrying a contagious or infectious disease, except for the risk of gross negligence or willful or reckless misconduct on the part of the practice learning site(s), its trustees, officers, agents, and employees. Student Name: Mailing Address: Student Signature: Date of Birth: Phone: Date Signed: 62

Student Evaluation of Practice Experience Strongly Agree Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly Disagree Comments The Preceptor at this practice experience site provided adequate opportunities for growth to expand my role in nursing. The length of the practice experience was adequate to meet the course learning outcomes. The practice site provided an accepting, supportive, positive learning environment. The Preceptor was supportive of my learning needs. I was stimulated by the Preceptor to confront new problems and situations to prepare me for an expanded role. The Preceptor provided positive and constructive feedback as appropriate. The faculty of record was available to me to address questions, concerns 63

and problems. What did you like best about your practice experience? What did you like least about your practice experience? Is there anything else you would like to share about your practice experience? Student name: Agency: Signature of student: Date: 64

2260 S. Xanadu Way, Ste. 310 Aurora, CO 80014 www.americansentinel.edu 800.729.2427 Sample Preceptor Thank You Letter Dear Preceptor, On behalf of American Sentinel University Nursing Programs, I would like to thank you for agreeing to be a preceptor for our student. We recognize this is a time commitment from you and we are grateful that you are willing to share your expertise and knowledge to prepare our future nurse leaders. This letter provides you with a brief orientation of the practice experience. Your role as a preceptor is to provide support and guidance to help interpret experiences, and help the student gain a broader world-view of nursing and role appropriate to the course. The student will provide you with a list of his/her objectives for the course, although it is his/her responsibility to ensure those objectives are met. The student will keep a log of his/her precepted practice experience hours. It is expected that information acquired during the practice experience is kept in strict confidence, according to HIPPA and your organizational standards. You are free to make arrangements with other key nurse leaders to assist the student to attain the learning outcomes. This is encouraged to help foster role development. However, you as the preceptor are the primary contact in the preceptor-student dyad and should spend sufficient time with the student to evaluate the student s progress and goal attainment (this includes face-to-face contact, email, etc.). Thank you for taking time to review this orientation. If you should have any questions or concerns, please contact me. My information is provided below. Sincerely, Senior Administrative Support, Academic Services American Sentinel University 65

Preceptor Packet 66

Dear Preceptor: Thank you for considering being a preceptor for a [BSN/MSN or DNP] nursing student from the American Sentinel University Nursing Programs. As a busy professional with numerous demands and responsibilities, your commitment to this process demonstrates personal dedication to the continuing development of nurses. The precepted practice experience the student will obtain at your organization is of critical importance to a successful learning experience in the program, and will provide the student with confidence and validation as you provide oversight of his/her precepted practice experience. The enclosed Preceptor Packet provides a brief description of the American Sentinel University Nursing Programs. It outlines the responsibilities of the student, the preceptor, and faculty of record. The student is engaged in didactic coursework along with focused precepted practice experiences. The student with whom you work will provide you with the current course precepted practice experience requirements to assist you guide him/her toward fulfilling the precepted practice experience requirement. Course and precepted practice experience learning outcomes and copies of the Student Practice Experiences Evaluation form to be completed by you are provided at the start of the precepted practice experience. If you agree to be a preceptor, please provide the following documents before the precepted practice experience may begin: The Preceptor Application and Agreement form establishing your willingness to serve as a preceptor; A copy of your current résumé or curriculum vitae; A copy of your current, valid, and unencumbered RN license. The American Sentinel University nursing program faculty, staff, and administration appreciate your contribution to our program and the critical role you play in the education of our students. We value your service as a preceptor and welcome your recommendations for making the preceptor role more effective and satisfying. Please feel free to contact me or the faculty of record if you have any questions or concerns. In the meantime, Thank You! for your service in the education of our nursing students. Sincerely, Senior Administrative Support, Academic Services American Sentinel University 67

American Sentinel University Mission American Sentinel University s mission is to provide high-quality, innovative degree and certificate programs that enable students to enhance their professional and civic lives. American Sentinel University Vision To be recognized as a world leader for: Accessible, quality, advanced education for the motivated learner/professional who seeks success in their chosen fields and communities. Innovative use of technology that creates new standards in outcomes and achievement of academic excellence. Understanding of and meeting the changing needs of our students, communities and other constituents. Creating excellence in student and constituent services. American Sentinel University Values American Sentinel University University s Institutional Objectives are reflected in its values: Continued Improvements in Quality Outcomes Place value creation for the learner at the center of all that we do. Embrace the changes necessary to continually improve standards and processes so that they inspire best in class educational content and learning assessments. Community of Scholars Keep our students, faculty, staff, communities and other constituents engaged in a free exchange of ideas by creating an environment of trust and mutual respect. Identify the educational needs of our students and work diligently to meet or exceed them. Connected and Inclusive Act with integrity, behave ethically and transparently. Value and embrace diversity. Maintain a workplace that is characterized by safety, openness, creativity, challenge and innovation. American Sentinel University Principles The University holds four principles at the core of all its activities for the Board, administration, faculty and students. These four principles support the University mission of enabling students to enhance their professional and civic lives: Accountability Citizenship Scholarship Leadership 68

American Sentinel Nursing Programs Philosophy The faculty believes that: Nursing education is based upon a scientific and humanistic approach, and built on a foundation of learning in the physical sciences, social sciences, liberal arts, and nursing theory and research, as well as experiential learning. In addition, the faculty believe that nursing education should facilitate students becoming capable of affirming themselves as whole beings physical, mental, social, and spiritual which ultimately prepares them to respect and care for other persons. This approach fosters the development of nursing students critical thinking as well as the promotion of an awareness of social and cultural diversity among individuals. The acquisition of professional knowledge and the development of clinical competence occur through active involvement of the student in the learning process. Students assume primary responsibility for learning, while faculty provides educational opportunities for professional role development. Students are adult learners who benefit from building on past experiences and applying newly learned concepts experientially in the nursing programs, in the form of assignments and the practice environments. As such, parts of Benner's theory from novice to expert is assumed into the program, with the entering BSN students demonstrating past work in the novice stage and progressing through additional learning stages as they progress through the various programs. Nursing involves a dedication to lifelong learning. Nurses are accountable to the discipline and its standards and to individual clients and groups and the global society. The faculty believes that Nursing is a profession that is defined in part by four metaparadigms: Person, Environment, Health and Nursing. Persons are open beings who are continuously evolving and responding to the environment, capable of selfdetermined adaptations, freely choosing meaning in situations and bearing the responsibility for decisions. Persons are directed toward increasing complexity rather than maintaining equilibrium and form new patterns of relating, influenced by physiological, psychological, sociocultural, spiritual and developmental variables. Persons are inherently good, interconnected and interdependent, and have a yearning beyond the human. Persons are parts of groups or families, and also part of the larger community. Nursing is a profession that is responsible to the changing health needs of the individual, family and global community. Nursing is concerned with the adaptation of groups and individuals to actual as well as potential health problems, and the environments that influence the individual s health and nursing interventions that promote health. Persons, individually or in groups, act and respond to constantly changing internal and external environmental forces that impact health and well-being. An essential domain in the education of nursing professionals is the concept of the 69

patient being in constant interaction with the environment. The patient is continuously evolving, and the behavior is a manifestation of interaction with that environment. Health is a variable state that is influenced by changes in the internal and external environments. Persons adapt to these changes in order to achieve stability and comfort. Individuals strive for a state of health and balance such that they maximize well-being. Health is viewed as a dynamic state where individuals take responsibly for their quality of life by meeting different needs. Each person is responsible to make decisions that affect their health. Nursing interactions are focused on health promotion and disease prevention. When the person is not able to maintain health the nursing professional uses therapeutic interventions with the purpose of serving the individual in the process of health restoration. Collaboration with other healthcare professionals promotes the optimum health of individuals and groups. In addition, this collaboration involves nurses becoming invested as leaders and professionals in the development of healthcare policies within their organizations, communities and globally. Academic preparation serves as a foundation of the development of evidence based professional knowledge, critical thinking, ethical decision-making, leadership skills, and the independent and collaborative pursuit of high standards of healthcare. The practice of professional nursing demands accountability for professional growth and practice, leadership in the patient advocate role, and commitment through research to the refinement of the theory and its application. Theoretical frameworks, research and scientific knowledge are important processes in which nurses develop, validate, and communicate programs of patient care. Practice, education, and administration/ leadership are the basis for nursing care to patients, which is performed in collaboration with other members of an interdisciplinary healthcare team. The nurse s role is that of healthcare provider who both independently and in collaboration with others, assess, plans, implements, and evaluates nursing care to patients. At American Sentinel University, academic preparation occurs through the medium of distance education, defined as an institution-based formal education where the learning group is separated from the instructional group and many times, from the institution, and where interactive telecommunications systems are used to connect learners, resources including but not limited to virtual libraries and learning platforms, and instructors. Distance education is also any mode of instruction in which there are no face to face courses or required meetings, students can complete the program at a distance, and there is a separation in time or place, between instructor and student. The Mission of the BSN program is to enhance the knowledge and practice of nurse generalists who are key members of an interdisciplinary team that can have a positive 70

impact on healthcare outcomes. Course content focuses on adding to the knowledge and skills acquired by students at the lower division level, particularly in the area of research and evidence based practice, community health, and management. The program is structured using the Quality and Safety Education Guidelines (QSEN). The Mission of the MSN program is to prepare highly qualified advanced practice professional nursing personnel to serve global healthcare communities as administrators, educators, and informatics specialists. The specialty areas are developed using the NLN Standards for Nurse Educator, the American Organization of Nurse Executives competency framework for the Nurse Leadership, the American Nurses Association Nursing Informatics Standards for the Informatics specialization, and the Core Curriculum from the Case Management Society of America for the Case Management specialization. The Infection Prevention and Control specialization was created using guidelines from the Certification Board for Infection Control and Epidemiology and the Quality and Safety Education for Nursing Guidelines, sponsored by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The Mission of the DNP program is to prepare highly qualified nurse leaders and nurse educators to serve in competitive healthcare and higher education settings. The educational preparation of nursing practice leadership requires learning a highly skilled level of nursing judgment to promote a flourishing organization culture in either healthcare delivery or academia settings. The Doctor of Nursing Practice in Executive Leadership is a program specifically designed to foster the advanced practice of nursing leadership within a complex, technologically advanced multi-system healthcare environment. The Doctor of Nursing Practice in Educational Leadership is a program specifically designed to foster the advanced practice of nursing education leadership. 71

2260 S. Xanadu Way, Ste. 310 Aurora, CO 80014 www.americansentinel.edu 800.729.2427 American Sentinel University Preceptor Application and Agreement To become a preceptor for an American Sentinel University nursing student, please attach a current resume or curriculum vita to this application along with a copy of your current nursing license or current web site verification from your board of nursing. NAME: DATE: CREDENTIALS: STATE AND NURSING LICENSE NUMBER(S): STREET ADDRESS: CITY: STATE: _ZIP: HOME TELEPHONE: EMPLOYMENT AGENCY NAME: ADDRESS: CITY: _STATE: ZIP: CHIEF NURSE ADMINISTRATOR AND TITLE: TELEPHONE: AGENCY ACCREDITATIONS: POPULATION SERVED: 72

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND HIGHEST DEGREE COMPLETED: NURSING OTHER FIELD Associate Master Associate Diploma Doctorate Bachelor Bachelor Master _Doctorate PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-Time (required) PRIMARY POSITON: Staff Nurse Nurse Manager Clinician Educator Nurse Practitioner Supervisor Case Manager Consultant Researcher 73

Director/Assistant Director School Nurse Other (please specify) PRIMARY FUNCTION AREA: Administration Education Patient Care Research Other (please specify) PRIMARY PRACTICUM OR PRECEPTED PRACTICE LEARNING EXPERIENCE SETTING: Home Care Hospice Hospital Outpatient/Ambulatory Care Clinic Physician s Office Private Practice Public health/community School Other (please specify) Printed Name and Credentials Date Signed Name and Credentials Date Please return this application, your resume or CV, and copy a copy of your current nursing license or current web site verification from your board of nursing to: Mail: Academic Support c/o American Sentinel University 2260 S. Xanadu Way, Suite 310, Aurora, CO 80014 Email: nursings@americansentinel.edu Fax: 866.505.2450 74

American Sentinel University Expectations of the Nurse Preceptor Please read and sign this document and return with your completed Preceptor Application and Agreement along with your current curriculum vitae or resume and a copy of your current nursing license. Keep a copy for your records. 1. Professional Role Model and Mentor a. Provide teaching/learning experiences according to established standards and facility policy and procedures. b. Effectively communicate with the student and others. c. Exhibit leadership skills. d. Demonstrate professional responsibilities. e. Model exemplary ethical behavior and enthusiasm for the profession. 2. Educator a. Assess the student learning needs in collaboration with the student and faculty of record. b. Collaborate with the student to plan effective learning experiences. c. Provide ongoing feedback of the student. i. Collaborate with faculty of record to evaluate the student s performance. ii. The faculty of record will determine final course evaluation after collaboration with the preceptor. iii. A satisfactory preceptor evaluation is necessary for the student to complete the course. 3. Socializer a. Welcome the student and actively integrate the student into the practice setting. b. Assist the student to transition smoothly to the nursing role. i. Note: Students with any condition (regardless of cause) that impairs their judgment and ability to function are not permitted in any practice setting. 4. Interact with American Sentinel University Course Faculty and related Program Administration [i.e. Dean, Associate Deans, Chairs, Senior Administrative Support, Academic Services]. 75

a. Interact with the faculty of record by phone or email at the beginning of course (Week 1), mid-term (Week 5), and with the final evaluation (Week 8). The call or email will be initiated by the faculty of record. b. Contact the faculty of record and the related Program Administration for concerns, problems, or incidents involving the student. 5. Student Schedules a. Total number of practice hours is determined by the course or program. The precepted practice experience will conclude when the student has completed the minimum required hours. The online course will continue for the entire eight weeks. b. The student can only work with the contracted Preceptor. Any change in Preceptors must be approved by the Associate Dean prior to making any change. c. The student must notify the Preceptor and the American Sentinel University nursing faculty of record of any absences. Missed hours need to be made up by the student. d. Each student must receive an orientation to the practice site (as appropriate.) 6. Feedback of Student Performance a. Assess student progress through completion of the Preceptor Feedback of Student form at the completion of the learning experience. b. Inform the student s faculty instructor of concerns related to the practice experience by the student or if the student is having difficulty meeting the requirements of the learning experience. Printed Name and Credentials Date Signed Name and Credentials Date Please return this signed form with your application, your resume or CV, and copy a copy of your current nursing license or current web site verification from your board of nursing to: Mail: Academic Support c/o American Sentinel University 2260 S. Xanadu Way, Suite 310, Aurora, CO 80014 Email: academicservices@americansentinel.edu Fax: 866.505.2450 76

Preceptor Feedback of Student Dear Preceptor: Please review and rate the student s performance in each of the following areas. Please email the completed form to the faculty of record that will assign a final pass/fail grade for the practice experience. The student will provide you with the email address of the faculty of record. Please note: the students cannot complete the course until the faculty of record receives this completed form. Met Unmet Comments The student displayed a professional appearance/manner/demeanor. The student was motivated to learn. The student demonstrated selfdirected resourcefulness. The student was reliable and adhered to the schedules. The student demonstrated excellent interpersonal skills. The student applied critical thinking to nursing decisions. The student collaborated with other members of the healthcare team to foster excellence in nursing. The student communicated in an effective, professional manner. Please include your comments below on the particular areas of student growth and performance. If specific criteria were unmet, please describe below. Student Name: Preceptor Name: Agency: Date: Signature of Preceptor: 77

Employer s Waiver of RN to BSN/MSN, MSN and DNP Practice Experience Requirements TO BE COMPLETED BY ADMINISTOR AT THE HEALTHCARE FACILTY/ORGANIZATION Date: Name of Person Completing Form: Name of Organization: Address: City/State/Zip: Name of Student: _ ( ), a student at American Sentinel University (the University ), has requested to complete the required Practice Experiences for the University s RN to BSN/MSN, MSN or DNP program at your healthcare facility where the student is also currently employed ( your organization or the Employer ). Prior to completing Practice Experience hours, students are required by the University to document certain background requirements through Certified Background. Since your organization employs this student, your organization may waive some or all of the requirements listed below. This is because the student is also an employee of the organization and the organization has this information in the employee s file that is maintained by the Employer. Therefore, the Employer does not require the student to provide the information in the checked boxes below to the University. Please check the boxes in front of the items that the Employer wishes to remove from the list of student requirements for the American Sentinel University nursing program. Then, please sign the form and return it to the University per the instructions below. The University will require ( ) the student to complete all unchecked requirements as part of the student s Certified Background account. Clear criminal background check and child abuse check as required by the state where the student s Practice Experiences will take place. Proof of individual malpractice insurance with a minimum limit of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $3,000,000 aggregate coverage. Health screen via a health history and physical examination conducted by and signed by a physician or nurse practitioner. 78

Immunization record validating that required immunizations/vaccinations are upto-date. Proof of current Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification. Proof of health insurance, or a signed waiver verifying that the student understands he/she is responsible for all expenses related to illness or accidents that occur while participating in the program. Certificate of completion of OSHA training that was completed within the past 12 months in connection with Blood-Bourne Pathogen and Hazard Communication. Certificate of completion of HIPAA training that was completed within the past 12 months. I am authorized to execute and deliver this letter on behalf of (insert name of Employer). Signature: Print Name: Title: Organization: Date: TO BE COMPLETED BY ADMINISTOR AT STUDENT I ( ) a student at American Sentinel University understand that this waiver applies ONLY to the location/organization listed above. If I complete practice experiences at another location/organization, I need to either complete all the requirements for my program of study or obtain a waiver from that location/organization. Signed: Date: Please email this completed and signed form to information to academicservices@americansentinel.edu. If you have questions about this form or the requirements for (insert student s name), please contact me at 1.303.557.9948. Best regards, Dr. Judy Burckhardt Dean, Nursing Programs American Sentinel University 79

AMERICAN SENTINEL UNIVERSITY ' CertifiedBackground.com t'91'w Eil certiflgo ROf-.IL.E STUDENT INSTRUCTION FORM FOR CERTIFIED BACKGROUND ACCOUNT FOR AMERICAN SENTINEL UNIVERSITY About CertifiedProfile CertifiedProfile is a secure platform that allows you to order your background check online. Once you have placed your order, you may use your login to access additional features of CertifiedProfile, including document storage, portfolio builders and reference tools. CertifiedProfile also allows you to upload any additional documents required by your school. Order Summary )- Required Personal Information- In addition to entering your full name and date of birth, you will be asked for your Social Security Number, current address, phone number and e-mail address. )- Payment Information- At the end of the online order process, you will be prompted to enter your Visa or MasterCard information. Money orders are also accepted but will result in a $10 fee and an additional turn around-time. Place Your Order )- Go to: http://americansentinel.certifiedbackground.com )- Click on the button in the middle of the page. )- You will be asked to select one of the following programs: RN to BSN, RN to MSN, MSN, or DNP. (If you are unsure, please contact your Student Service Advisor (SSA) before continuing.) Click on the applicable program button.' )- Then select the state where you will be completing your practice experiences from the dropdown in the middle of the page. Drug Testing is not included in your package but may be obtained when needed by ordering the drug test only package. Please check with 80

Based on your choice of state, a new dropdown will appear that will prompt you to select whether this is your first time placing an order or if you would like to order a recheck package. ² Then on the following screen, please review the contents of your package, and check both boxes that appear at the bottom of the screen to show that you have read, understand, and agree to the terms and conditions. You are now ready to get started with your order. Click the button, and you will be directed to set up your CertifiedProfile account. Please note: You will receive further instructions once you place your order on how to obtain your photo ID badge. This badge must be worn at all times. View Your Results Your results will be posted directly to your CertifiedProfile account. You will be notified if there is any missing information needed in order to process your order. Although 95% of background check results are completed within 3-5 business days, some results may take longer. Your order will show as In Process until it has been completed in its entirety. The necessary personnel at American Sentinel can also securely view your results online with their unique username and password. If you have any additional questions, please contact CertifiedProfile at 888-914-7279 or email cpservicedesk@certifiedprofile.com ² Only select Recheck Package if you have previously placed an order with CertifiedBackground.com in conjunction with American Sentinel University. Once you have made your selection you will automatically be directed to a new page. 81

Notification of Certified Background Requirements To whom it may concern: The accreditors for the Nursing Programs at American Sentinel, the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accrediting Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), require that RN to BSN, RN to BSN/MSN, MSN and DNP programs include practice experiences in the curricula to enable students to achieve the required educational competencies (AACN White Paper, Oct. 2012; DNP Essentials for Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice, 2006; ACEN 2013 Standards). These practice experiences have specific objectives, expected outcomes and competencies. Students who complete these experiences are evaluated by the faculty of record. Practice experiences are not like the clinical experiences nurses completed to obtain their degree as registered nurses. Practice experiences do not involve hands-on patient care. They are designed to provide students with the opportunity to apply the concepts and knowledge they learn in the nursing courses. Before starting the practice experiences, students are required to establish a Certified Background account and fulfill the requirements for the nursing program in which they are enrolled. The cost of Certified Background accounts varied by the nursing program in which the student is enrolled, the location and requirements of state in which the student wants to complete his/her practice experiences, and ranges from approximately $100 to $250. Dr. Judy Burckhardt Dean, Nursing Programs 82

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Petition for a Waiver of the Certified Background Account, Use of an Agency Affiliation Agreement and Practice Experience Preceptor for Students Taking Only N512, N521 and N522PE Please note: This form is for use by students who enroll only in the University to take N512, N521 and N522PE. The Nursing Programs at American Sentinel University require students in the RN to BSN, RN to MSN, MSN and DNP programs to establish a Certified Background account, complete the requirement for their specific nursing program and secure an Affiliation Agency Agreement if enrolled in the RN to MSN, MSN or DNP program. Students who already have a MSN degree and want to register only one or more of the three P courses: N512 Advanced Pathophysiology, N521 Advanced Pharmacology; and N522PE Advanced Physical Assessment must submit a Petition for a Waiver of the of the Certified Background Account, use of an agency affiliation agreement and a practice experience preceptor. The Associate Dean, BSN and MSN Programs s is authorized to allow students seeking enrollment in only these three courses at American Sentinel University to waive the Certified Background account, use of an agency affiliation agreement and a practice experience preceptor. Required petition components: 1. Completed Petition for a Waiver of the Certified Background Account, Use of an Agency Affiliation Agreement and Practice Experience Preceptor form 2. Statement of rationale for requesting to complete one or more of the three P courses. Name: Telephone Number: Student ID#: Email Address: 86

Proposed Enrollments at American Sentinel University: o o o N512 Advanced Pathophysiology N521 Advanced Pharmacology N522PE Advanced Physical Assessment. Rationale: With my signature, I hereby request a waiver to complete one or more of the three P MSN core courses as noted above. I hereby authorize designated University personnel to review any pertinent records to make an informed decision regarding my waiver request. I affirm that I will not seek practice experiences in any setting with or without a preceptor and that this request affirms my intent to enroll in only one or more of the three P courses at the University. If at any point in my academic studies, I determine that I wish to pursue additional coursework, I will be required to complete all required practice experience hours. Student Signature: Date: Office Use Only Date: Decision: Associate Dean, Nursing Programs Signature: 87