STUDENT HANDBOOK FOR LVN & RN PROGRAMS

Transcription

1 STUDENT HANDBOOK FOR LVN & RN PROGRAMS Revised 07/2017

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction... 1 Purpose of the Program... 1 Philosophy and Purposes... 2 Institution... 2 Learning Styles... 2 Associate Degree Nursing Program... 2 Conceptual Framework... 5 Nursing Program Courses... 8 Nursing Program Course Hours AH Nursing Program Hours AH 55 & Expectations... 8 The Gavilan College Career Ladder Program Contact Information RN Preceptorship Gavilan College GE Requirements for the Associate Degree Nursing Thirty-Unit Option for Licensed Vocational Nurses Deadlines and Application Process Selection of Eligible Applicants Policies of the Nursing Program General Code of Conduct Attendance Absence/Absentee Policy Use of Personal Electronic Devices in the Classroom Student Illness or Injury Injury Reporting Process Pregnancy Leave Evaluation and Grading System Late Assignments Math/Clinical Calculation Policy Retention Clinical Evaluation Rating for Clinical Evaluation Satisfactory Needs Improvement Unsatisfactory Unsafe Performance Clinical Probation Critical Elements for All Courses Procedure for Examinations Gavilan College Academic Honesty Policy Nursing Student Integrity Policy Nursing Care Plans and Other Written Assignments Confidentiality Accountability Infection Control Awareness Impaired Student Policy Policy Assessment Procedure Dismissal/Suspension Re-Admission Dismissal of Students Course Repeat Reinstatement of Students... 31

3 Withdrawal Incomplete Grades Credit by Examination Procedures for Credit by Examination Nursing Program Procedure for Granting Acceptance into the Registered Nurse Program Requirements Once Accepted Into the RN Program Responsibilities of the Student College Catalog Program Expenses Transportation/Child Care Current Address Photo ID Badges Renewals/Certifications RN and VN NCLEX Applications Class Pins Guidelines for Professional Conduct Personal Appearance Uniform Shoes/Socks Hair Makeup/Tattoos Odors/Aromas Nails Jewelry/Piercing Speech and Conversation Eating/Drinking/Smoking Personal Electronic Devices Liability Insurance Health Insurance Gifts and Gratuities Clinical Ethics Students as Hospital Employees Personal Reasons for Visiting in the Hospital Quality of Care Code of Nurses Students Rights and Resources Student Representation to the Faculty Meetings Nursing Faculty Office Hours Faculty Evaluation Learning Resource Center Scholarships and Financial Assistance Nursing Skills Laboratory Students Problem/Grievance Resolution Process Appendix ADA Compliance Statement... I Essential Physical Requirements... I Essential Cognitive Learning Skills... II Essential Communication Skills... II Some Survival Skills for Nursing Students... III Self-Help Study Groups.V Helpful Hints from Fellow Students... VII Identification of Stress... VIII Grounds for Discipline, Disciplinary Proceedings & Rehabilitation (BRN)... IX Gross Negligence, Incompetence, Standards of Competent Performance... IX Substantial Relationship Criteria, Disciplinary Guidelines... X Grounds for Discipline & Disciplinary Proceedings (BVN & PTE)... XII Gross Negligence, Incompetence... XII

4 INTRODUCTION Welcome to the Gavilan College Nursing Program. This student handbook is a supplement to the Gavilan College Catalog. The purpose of the handbook is to provide information specifically related to the nursing programs, which is not contained in any other publications. As new policies relating to nursing activities are formulated, they will be added to the handbook. Purpose of the Program Gavilan College offers an associate degree program in registered nursing with classes admitted every year (fall semester). Upon successful completion of the registered nursing program, the graduate will be: 1. Awarded a Certificate of Completion - Registered Nursing 2. Awarded an Associate of Science Degree- Registered Nursing 3. Eligible to apply for the National Council Licensure Examination RN for licensure as a registered nurse Gavilan College also offers a vocational nursing program. Upon successful completion of the vocational nursing program the graduate will be: 1. Awarded a Certificate of Completion - Licensed Vocational Nursing 2. Awarded a Associates Degree - Licensed Vocational Nursing 3. Eligible to apply to the National Council Licensure Examination VN for licensure as a vocational nurse 1

5 PHILOSOPHY AND PURPOSES Institution The nursing faculty concurs with the Gavilan Community College statements of philosophy and purposes and its dedication to the nurturance of the free and rational mind. This dedication commits the college to offer opportunities to every student to develop his or her unique potential. Gavilan Community College is committed to present diversified programs and to utilize a variety of instruction methods. Its varied programs provide the opportunity for students and faculty to participate in cultural, intellectual, and social activities. Gavilan Community College faculty and staff believe strategic planning to meet immediate and projected needs of students and the community is essential to a viable educational program. This process will move the college toward achievement of the vision, to be the leader among community colleges, highly regarded for commitment to students, widely respected for excellence in teaching, and openly responsive to the communities served. Student centered, teaching excellence, and environment conducive to learning, and tradition, as values of the institution, form the foundation upon which Gavilan Community College is built and grows. These values guide individual and collective actions of its faculty and staff. Learning Styles The nursing faculty acknowledges each learner s strengths in the acquisition of a knowledge based or skill. The faculty recognizes that each student utilizes a blend of learning styles. The nursing faculty uses a multipartite approach to assist the nursing student throughout their course of study. Predominately auditory learners use mental patterns and rhythms as memory aids. These learners benefit most from hearing directions or through case presentations. The faculty uses lectures, interactive classroom discussion and case presentation to assist the learner move concepts from the abstract to the concrete experience. The visual learners use shapes, colors, and physical positions of objects to solidify concepts. The Gavilan College nursing faculty assists the visual learner through the use of a dynamic and varied multimedia presentation. The tactile learner benefits from touching and manipulation of objects. The tactile learner is encouraged to use this strength in the practice lab and clinical environment. The kinesthetic learner uses the movement and physical nature of objects to understand how ideas can be manipulated into physical reality. The Gavilan faculty uses interactive games and critical thinking exercises to facilitate this learning style. The nursing faculty is committed to accommodating the varied learning styles of our students through a multimodal teaching approach. Associate Degree Nursing Program The philosophy of the Associate Degree Nursing is based upon a set of beliefs shared by the total nursing faculty. The nursing faculty believes that nursing encompasses a broad occupational field involving a variety of functions performed by individuals with varying levels of preparation. So, to this end, the faculty agrees upon the definition of nursing which follows: 2

6 Nursing is a science, which entails goal-oriented action to provide direct or indirect care to individuals, families, groups, and communities. The essence of nursing is the interpersonal process through which the nurse assists to identify alteration in his/her ability to provide self-care. The nurse guides the client to establish responses, which will modify, reduce, or prevent health problems (self-care deficits). In addition, these nursing actions enable the individual to achieve optimum health and independence or to die in comfort and with dignity. The nurse is thus concerned with universal and developmental self-care needs. The nursing process provides a systematic means of implementing nursing care. The purpose of nursing education is to provide knowledge and skills necessary for students to become safe practitioners. Nursing education should take place within an institution of higher learning. It is appropriate that the education of the associate degree nurse occur in the community college whose purpose includes vocational education. The Associate Degree Nursing curriculum is comprised of courses designed to develop competent practitioners as well as to enhance the quality of the student s life. Nursing courses incorporate principles from the natural, behavioral, and social sciences, the humanities, and the developing science and ethics of nursing. Clinical experience developed in accordance with college policy and the regulations of the state licensing authority is provided throughout the curriculum. Associate Degree Nursing Program graduates are prepared to administer care to persons with an alteration in their ability to provide self-care. They are primarily concerned with implementing measures to alleviate deficits of self-care and evaluating the individual s reaction to nursing interventions. Learning opportunities are provided that include individuals of all age groups with varying health deviations. The nursing faculty believes each individual is a unique being with biopsychosocial, intellectual, spiritual, and cultural attributes. Each individual has a set of needs common to all. Individuals develop through a series of recognizable developmental stages from conception through death. Throughout life individuals are learning and choosing ways of meeting their needs. As a member of a family, group, and community, one exhibits a variety of characteristics impacted upon by the aging processes, interpersonal relationships, and changing responsibilities. Behavior is influenced by conditions in our world and universe. The nursing faculty believes the conceptual framework forms a basis for the curriculum structure, selection of content, and learning experiences. The organization of the curriculum is based on universal self-care needs, developmental self-care needs, and needs related to health deviations, nursing process, and the roles of the associated degree nurse. This provides a pattern that guides the student in his/her developing abilities to give competent care. The nursing process includes assessment, analysis, plan, implementation, and evaluation in the promotion of health and prevention of illness. The nursing faculty respects the cultural and ethnic backgrounds of students and believes the multicultural student population enriches the learning environment. The instructional process must be adapted to meet the differing abilities and learning styles of students and to recognize the wide diversity of support systems, which influence student progress in the program. Since learning does not proceed at the same rate and in the same way in every individual, creative methods are used to meet individual student needs. Learning is an active, continuous process, proceeding from the simple to the complex, resulting in a change of behavior that facilitates student attainment of identified goals. The nursing faculty believes that the student s role is to actively participate in the learning process, to use experiences and guidance offered by faculty, and to assume responsibility for meeting behavioral objectives. Learning involves the cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains and is transferable to a variety of situations. 3

7 Learning is a growth process facilitated by a trusting relationship between teacher and student. The nursing faculty believes teaching is a dynamic process dependent on the application of principles of learning. Teachers facilitate learning by providing an environment, which promotes inquiry, critical thinking, accountability and self-evaluation. They also evaluate the student s attainment of program objectives. Learning experiences are provided which are realistic for an ever-changing society. In keeping with the trend of health care delivery, teaching occurs in outpatient clinics, acute care settings, extended care facilities, and community agencies. Citizens of the community as consumers of nursing services are involved in the development and operation of the Associate Degree Nursing Program to the extent that is consistent with educational goals. A cooperative relationship with the agencies in which the student nurses have their practicum is basic to an effective program. The contributions of nurses and health care providers from other disciplines within these agencies are essential to the learning process. The nursing faculty is responsible for supporting channels of communication with clinical agencies participating in the program. The nursing faculty also must orient employers to the goals of the program and the capabilities of graduates of the Associate Degree Nursing Program. The Associate Degree Nursing Program graduate is prepared to function in settings where direct care is given to clients. Nursing practice will be characterized by application of accepted rules of action and principles that are common, recurring, controlled, and immediate. These nursing actions are standardized and validated through observations. Similar criteria guide the Associate Degree nurse s client-teacher role. The Associate Degree Nursing graduate works in collaboration with other members of the health team. The nurse uses scientific knowledge as a foundation to guide nursing actions and decisions. The essence of the nursing process is the establishment of an interpersonal relationship through therapeutic communication. Through educative/supportive, partially compensatory or wholly compensatory nursing actions, client comfort and safety will be insured as the nurse assists the client to optimum level of wellness. The nurse will administer medication and implement treatment according to accepted standards of nursing practice. With supervision and experience, the Associate Degree nurse is able to assume leadership functions related to the provision of nursing care. The graduate will participate in the ongoing improvement and expansion of nursing knowledge by using resources for continuing education. The graduate earns an Associate in Science Degree in Nursing and will be eligible to take the licensing examination for Registered Nurses. Articulation with programs offering a Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing is promoted. The Associate Degree Nursing Program at Gavilan Community College provides a sound basis for further personal and professional development leading to opportunities for continued growth in the nursing profession. 4

8 CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK (NARRATIVE) Although some principles of the Orem Theory are focused on the Registered Nurse, concepts begin in the first year of the Licensed Vocational Nursing Program. Self-care deficit theory as described by Dorothea Orem (1980) is a systemic process of related knowledge that enables the nurse to describe and measure the effectiveness of care according to the client s level of functioning. Self-care deficit theory and the actions derived from that theory operate to enhance the self-care capacity of the client. Orem s theory provides criteria that enables the nurse to describe, measure, and predict outcomes of nursing actions. Fundamental to the self-care deficit theory is the belief that every person and/or support group possesses a degree of self-care and that nursing intervenes when self-care needs cannot be met. Through assessment, the nurse is able to determine the degree to which an individual and/or support group is able to engage in self-care and/or care of a dependent. From the assessment, the nurse is able to derive a plan that is both collaborative and contractual to meet the self-care deficits. A self-care deficit exists when the self-care agency of a person and/or group is unable to meet the therapeutic self-care demand. Every person and/or support group possess universal and developmental self-care needs. Some persons and/or support groups also possess special health deviation self-care needs, which the nurse is uniquely prepared to meet. Nursing systems provide a structure that enables the nurse to intervene using wholly compensatory, partially compensatory, and supportive-educative roles. Five major concepts form the basis of the Conceptual Framework Model developed by the nursing faculty at Gavilan Community College. The five major concepts are: 1. Universal self-care needs 2. Developmental self-care needs 3. Health deviation self-care needs 4. Nursing process 5. Roles of the Associate Degree Nurse Each client is viewed as having universal self-care needs as described by Orem that includes: 1. Oxygenation 2. Fluid and electrolyte 3. Comfort and rest 4. Nutrition 5. Elimination 6. Compensation 7. Protection and safety 8. Development and growth 9. Regulation 10. Activity and mobility The second concept is the developmental self-care needs as described by Orem including: 1. Age 5

9 2. Lifestyle 3. Maturation 4. Environment The third major concept is the health deviation self-care needs continuum comprised of four focal positions which are optimum health, health, illness, and death. Optimum Health Health Illness Death 1. Optimum Health is the attainment of the full potential of an individual, family, group or community. It is the absence of symptoms, the individual s perception of optimum well-being, and the ability to perform roles and tasks. 2. Health is the partial attainment of the full potential of an individual, family, group or community. It is the absence of symptoms, the individual s perception of well-being, and the ability to perform most roles and tasks. 3. Illness is the failure to attain the potential of an individual, family, group, or community. It is the presence of symptoms, the individual s perceptions of poor health, and the inability to perform roles and tasks. 4. Death is the permanent cessation of all functions. The fourth concept is the nursing process, which is a systematic problem-solving method used by nurses. The five basic steps of the nursing process are: assessment, analysis, plan, implementation and evaluation. 1. Assessment Collecting, verifying, communicating data about client(s). 2. Analysis Interpreting client health care needs, identifying nursing diagnosis, and electing goals of care. 3. Plan Designing a strategy using appropriate nursing interventions to achieve the goals established for client care. 4. Implementation Initiating and completing nursing interventions necessary to accomplish the defined client goals. 5. Evaluation Determining the extent to which the goals of care have been achieved. Revise nursing care plan as appropriate. The fifth major concept of the Conceptual Framework is the roles of the associate degree nurse as defined by the National League for Nursing. These five roles of the nurse are: 1. Provider of care 2. Client teacher 3. Manager of client care 4. Communicator 6

10 5. Member within a profession. These major concepts of the conceptual framework are schematically represented in a model, which is organized using a circular pattern. There are five circles each representing one of the major concepts. These circles are movable thus allowing faculty, students, and others to demonstrate the changing relationship between the subconcept within each major concept. The mobility of the model allows for the development of an understanding of the complexities inherent in each of the major concepts used in the nursing program. This ability of the model also allows understanding of the continuously changing biopsychosocial needs of the client. 7

11 NURSING PROGRAM COURSES Course Hours Nursing courses are generally offered in the morning and afternoon. A typical vocational nursing student schedule for AH would be: Monday & Tuesday Wednesday & Thursday 6:30 AM 2:00 PM or 2:00 PM 9:30 PM Clinical experience in hospital 7:10 AM 10:00 AM (first year) Lecture on campus 1:00 PM 4:00 PM (second year) Lecture on campus A typical AH student schedule would be: Sunday & Monday or 2:30 PM 9:15 PM or 6:30 AM 1:15 PM Monday & Tuesday Clinical experience at hospital Wednesday & Thursday 10:10 AM 12:40 PM Lecture on campus In addition, students complete general education requirements for the Associate Degree. Third semester RN students complete a five-week preceptorship working 24 hours a week with a staff RN. Students are expected to study about two hours for each hour spent in class. Since the nursing program is generally a full-time load, outside employment may seriously hamper a student s progress. *Evening and night clinical experience is considered beneficial to student learning and may be required. Expectations Evaluation of the student nurse is based upon theoretical knowledge and the application of that knowledge and skill to clinical laboratory situations. Since the students work in critical life situations, their clinical performance must reflect safe and competent nursing care of increasing complexity. Therefore, it is mandatory that once admitted to the program, the student must maintain continuous satisfactory progress by demonstrating competence in both theory and clinical components of all required courses with a grade of C or better. Failure to show competence in the clinical area constitutes a course failure regardless of theory grade and results in removal from the program. Students should plan to spend a minimum of two hours of study for each unit per week; i.e., 10 units = 20 hours outside study per week. Students may jeopardize their health or their standing in the program by full-time employment. Students must maintain a current telephone number and address with the clinical instructor and the Allied Health Department. Facilities require a current listing for all students. Street addresses are required. 8

12 A student is responsible for renewing immunizations, annual CPR, malpractice insurance, and licensure or certification. Students must park in student parking areas designated by the college. Parking at clinical facilities will be delineated at clinical orientations. Official photo ID badges are required at all times in the clinical area. Students will not be allowed in the clinical setting without proper identification. 9

13 GAVILAN COLLEGE ALLIED HEALTH CAREER LADDER PROGRAM Fall 2018 Licensed Vocational Nurse Program (LVN) The courses below are required to apply to the LVN program. Applicants must have a minimum grade of C in all courses. LVN Program Prerequisites: AH 3 The Person in the Life Cycle units BIO 7 Human Anatomy. 5 units AH/BIO 8 General Microbiology.. 5 units LVN Program Courses AH/BIO 9 Human Physiology. 5 units AH/BIO 11 Nutrition... 3 units AH 180 Fundamentals of Nursing/Convalescent. 8.5 units or equivalent CNA certificate CMUN 1A Introduction to Public Speaking.. 3 units SOC 1A Introduction to Sociology. 3 units ENGL 1A Composition units PSYC 10 Introduction to Psychology units MATH 233 or Intermediate Algebra.. 5 units MATH 235 or Integrated Algebra 10 units MATH 240 or Algebra II.. 5 units MATH 242 Algebra II for Statistics 5 units Current BLS Provider card from the American Heart Association with biannual renewal Registered Nurse Program (RN) The RN program is open to students that are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN or are Licensed Vocational Nurses only. The courses below are required to apply to the RN program. Current Gavilan 2 nd year LVN students receive priority into the RN program, see Selection of Eligible Applicants on page 3 for more detailed information. Applicants must have a minimum grade of C in all courses. RN Program Prerequisites: AH/BIO 8 General Microbiology.. 5 units AH/BIO 9 Human Physiology. 5 units ENGL 1A Composition.. 3 units CMUN 1A SOC 1A MATH 233 or MATH 235 or MATH 240 or MATH 242 AH 51 AH 52 AH 53 AH 54 AH 16 Introduction to Public Speaking.. 3 units Introduction to Sociology. 3 units Intermediate Algebra.. 5 units Integrated Algebra 10 units Algebra II.. 5 units Algebra II for Statistics 5 units Medical-Surgical Nursing.. 11 units Medical-Surgical Nursing. 11 units Medical-Surgical Nursing/ Maternal Neonatal Nursing 11 units Medical-Surgical Nursing/ Pediatric Nursing. 11 units Intravenous Therapy/Blood Withdrawal. 2 units 30 Unit Option Certificate of Achievement Completion of the following courses will qualify students for a Certificate of Achievement in Registered Nursing. This option is only available to Licensed Vocational Nurses and will not award you an Associate s Degree. Please see a counselor to determine if this is the best option for you. Be advised that priority is given to students working towards a degree. Certificate Requirements: AH/BIO 8 General Microbiology.. 5 units AH/BIO 9 Human Physiology.. 5 units AH 55 Interactive and Mental Health Nursing units AH 56 Compensatory Nursing Practice units 10 Units AH 51 Medical-Surgical Nursing 11 AH 52 Medical-Surgical Nursing 11 AH 53 Medical-Surgical-Maternal Neonatal Nursing 11 AH 54 Medical-Surgical-Pediatric Nursing 11 Completion of AH will grant eligibility to take the NCLEX-PN Licensing Exam and apply for the Gavilan College RN Program. Additional courses must be taken to meet general education requirements for A.S. degree and transfer option. See counselor. RN Program Courses AH 55 Interactive and Mental Health Nursing 10 AH 56 Compensatory Nursing Practice 10 Completion of AH will grant eligibility to take the NCLEX-RN Licensing Exam. Additional courses must be taken to meet general education requirements for A.S. degree and transfer option. See counselor. Units

14 Contact Information ALLIED HEALTH CONTACT INFORMATION Debra Amaro Allied Health Programs Director Linda Stubblefield 1 st Year LVN Lead Instructor LSubblefield@gavilan.edu Kim Montague 2 nd Year LVN Lean Instructor KMontague@gavilan.edu Susan Turner RN Lead Instructor STurner@gavilan.edu Christina Borello Skills Lab Instructor CBorello@gavilan.edu N/A Eva Daley Senior Allied Health Specialist EDaley@gavilan.edu Elaine Arballo Allied Health Specialist EArballo@gavilan.edu Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians Contact Information 2535 Capital Oaks Dr,. Suite 205 Sacramento, CA Phone: (916) bvnpt@dca.ca.gov Board of Registered Nursing Contact Information 1747 N. Market Blvd., Suite 150 Sacramento, CA (916)

15 RN Preceptorship In the last semester of the RN program students will enter into a five-week preceptorship. The purpose of the preceptorship is to help students bridge from student nurse to staff nurse. During the five-week time span students will work an average of 3 days per week with a Registered Nurse who has been approved by his or her manager to be a preceptor. Students may suggest a preceptor or the instructor will find one. Students will need a flexible schedule during the preceptorship to be available to work the nurse s schedule. Often, students receive job offers as a result of the preceptorship. 12

16 GAVILAN COLLEGE Allied Health Programs General Education Requirements for the Associate Degree Nursing Additional courses are required for transfer. Please see a counselor. Area A English Language, Communication and Critical Thinking Complete each of the following: A-1. A-2. Oral Communication CMUN 1A Written Communication ENGL 1A Area B Scientific Inquiry and Quantitative Reasoning Complete each of the following: B-1. Physical Science none required (CHEM 30A is a prerequisite to BIO 9) B-2 & B-3. Life Science and Laboratory Activity: B-4. BIO 10 (If needed), BIO 15 or BIO 7, BIO 8 and 9 (BIO 8 & 9 at RN Level) Mathematics: Minimum of MATH 233, 235, 240, 242 (Intermediate Algebra) or any transferable Math course listing a prerequisite of Intermediate Algebra. Competency may be verified by an approved test. Area C Arts and Humanities Minimum of 3 units from area 1 or 2: C-1. C-2. Arts (Art, Dance Music, Theater): Any Art, Theater Arts or Music course (other than Area 2); CMUN 2; HUM 10; Journalism (other than Journalism 10). Humanities (Literature, Philosophy, Foreign Language): ART 11, ART/HIST 21; ENGL 1B, 1C, 2B-C, 2E-F, 2J, 4A, 4B, 5A, 5B, 9A, 9B, 9C; HIST 1, 2, 3, 4A, 4B, 5,6, 7A, 7B, 10, 12, 14; HUM 3, 4, 5, 10; JOUR/SOC 10; PHIL 1, 2, 3A, 3B, 4, 6, 7A, 7B, 9, 12, 15; any foreign language Area D Social Sciences One course from area 1 and two courses from area 2 D-1. HIST 1 HIST 2 HIST 5 POLS 1 D-2. PSYC 10 SOC 1A Area E Life-Long Learning and Self-Development One unit from area 1 and two courses from area 2 E-1. One Unit of Kinesiology (Previously Physical Education) activity class or intercollegiate sport E-2. AH 3 AH 11 Area F Cultural Diversity Two courses may be double counted to satisfy GE requirements F-1. AH 3 AH 11 13

17 Thirty-Unit Option for Licensed Vocational Nurses An applicant who is licensed in California as a vocational nurse is eligible to apply for licensure as a registered nurse if such applicant has successfully completed the courses prescribed below and meets all the other requirements set forth by the Board of Registered Nurses (code of regulations, section 2736). The Board of Registered Nursing of the State of California does not require that applicants for the licensing exam hold a degree or diploma. Licensed Vocational Nurses are eligible to sit for the RN State Board Exam after completing the following courses: *Physiology (Bio 9) *Microbiology (Bio 8) Allied Health 55 Allied Health 56 Each of these courses must be completed with a grade of C or better. (*Although not required for students seeking the thirty-unit option, they are prerequisites to these courses that are recommended.) When possible, Gavilan College will admit 30-unit option students in the nursing classes as space permits. (30-unit option students will be selected on a seat available basis after AS Degree Qualified Students) Students must have completed an approved BVN program and must declare selection of the 30- unit option at the time of application. The California Board of Registered Nursing stipulates the following: The additional education required of the licensed vocational nurse applicants shall not exceed a maximum of thirty (30) or forty-five (45) quarter units. Courses required for vocational nurse licensure do not fulfill the additional education requirement. However, other courses comparable to those required for licensure as a registered nurse, as specified in section 1426, may fulfill the additional education requirement. Nursing courses shall be taken in an approved nursing program and shall be beyond courses equivalent to the first year of professional nursing courses. The nursing content shall include nursing intervention in acute, preventive, remedial, supportive, rehabilitative, and teaching aspects of nursing. Theory and courses with concurrent clinical practice shall include advanced medical-surgical, mental health, psychiatric, and geriatric nursing, The nursing content shall include the basic standards for competent performance prescribed in section

18 DEADLINES AND APPLICATION PROCESS Students are expected to meet the requirements and deadlines when applying to the Gavilan College LVN and/or RN Program. November 1, 2017 December 1, 2017 December 1, 2017 April 2018 (approx.) May 2018 Applications available online at Send nursing application packet to: Allied Health Department Gavilan College 5055 Santa Teresa Blvd Gilroy, CA Deadline to complete Gavilan placement test (if using scores to meet the math requirement) Nursing application packet deadline. Complete application packet must be postmarked by December 1, 2017 Entrance exam invitation letters and denial letters mailed Entrance exam administered at Gavilan College June 1, 2018 (approx.) Acceptance letters mailed June 30, 2018 July 2018 Deadline for accepted students to inform the Allied Health Department in writing of intent to enroll in the nursing program Alternates notified of any vacancies SELECTION OF ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS Current 2 nd year LVN students are given priority into the RN program if the 2.5 GPA minimum is met in nursing prerequisites and LVN courses. Otherwise applicants will be put in the 50/50 selection pool described below with outside applicants that have also met the 2.5 GPA minimum in nursing prerequisites excluding LVN courses. The procedure below is used to fill available RN program openings after current student eligibility is determined: 1. All eligible applicants are sorted in ascending order by nursing prerequisite GPA 2. Fifty percent (50%) of the available program openings are filled by selecting eligible applicants from the top of the GPA ranked list 3. The remaining fifty percent (50%) of program openings are filled by a random lottery of those eligible applicants NOTE: Applicants not accepted into the program will not be waitlisted. Students are encouraged to reapply the following year if still interested. 15

19 POLICIES OF THE NURSING PROGRAM General Code of Conduct Because patients in clinical settings are dependent upon their caregivers for physical well being, emotional security, and their perception of their illness, the conduct expected of all students in the nursing programs of Gavilan College exceeds that of the general college student. Failure to demonstrate behavior that conforms to these expectations will be cause for dismissal from any of the programs. Components of these standards include, but are not limited to, those listed below: Professional Attitudes: Maturity Compassion and caring Integrity and truthfulness Sound judgment and priority setting Professional Appearance: (See the Personal Appearance section) Cleanliness Neatness Inspires confidence of patient Professional Behaviors Safe clinical performance Punctuality Conscientiousness in carrying out duties Maintenance of confidentiality Ethical conduct Adhere to Gavilan College policies and Allied Health Policies Attendance Attendance will be taken and recorded for each session. Students missing one more class hour than the unit value for a particular course without making prior arrangements may, at the instructor s option, be dropped without possibility of credit, or failed if after the last day to withdraw. Students who do not attend the first class session may be dropped from class in order to admit other students desiring to enroll. If it is necessary for a student to miss more than three consecutive class periods, a Leave of Absence Petition Form should be obtained from the Admissions and Records Office. The petition must be approved by all the student s instructors and returned to the Admissions and Records Office. Ordinarily, a petition for leave of absence will not be granted for more than two weeks. Prolonged absences, even when excused, may result in a lower grade, since the student is still responsible for course requirements. Each student is responsible for meeting the weekly learning objectives. Following an absence, the student, in conference with the instructor, will ascertain if there are alternate methods of meeting those objectives and will develop a plan, where feasible, for doing so. Included in the plan will be a deadline, by which the objective will be met. All objectives for a given course should be made up 16

20 within the semester when the course is offered. Alternate methods of meeting the objective may include, but are not limited to, computer programs on an hour for hour basis, case studies, written reports, examinations, etc. The instructor will determine the assignment. If using computer time to make up for absences, remember that computer time will not be counted unless student officially logs on and off (check with Lab Assistant in computer lab). Make-up of clinical objectives may not be possible within the semester and may result in the student receiving an F if this occurs after the withdrawal date. All make-up must be completed by the last class day of the semester prior to finals. Absence/Absentee Policy The student is expected to be in attendance at all times in clinical and theory in order to meet course objectives. Absences, tardiness, and leaving early are detrimental to meeting the course objectives and leave an inadequate opportunity to evaluate the student s clinical performance. Students that exceed two (2) absences, either clinical or theory, or being tardy, or leaving early two (2) times in a semester will be placed on probation. These absences or tardiness could result in a reduction of grade, additional assignments or recommendation for withdrawal or dismissal from the program. Clinical hours must be made up on an hour for hour basis: AH VN = 7.00 hours per clinical day AH RN = 6.25 hours per clinical day Students are responsible to keep track of absences and make-up hours. It is the student s responsibility to confirm with instructor the method for make-up hours and documentation. Make-up time MUST BE COMPLETED before the first day of finals week. Make-up time is to be accrued AFTER absence occurs. Request for exception to be considered by a committee of the nursing faculty. Students may miss the equivalent hours of 2 clinical days and 2 lecture days. Any subsequent absences are considered excessive. Clinical probation will be initiated for excessive absences. Precautionary statement about meeting course objectives: Remedial work required by this contract does NOT substitute for satisfactory achievement of course objectives. However, when tests are missed because of absence, the instructor may devise another test to measure the attainment of objectives. This make-up test, if given, may be of a different format than the missed test. If circumstances are known to the student which interfere with his taking an examination at the scheduled time, the responsibility rests with the student for making arrangements with the instructor for completing the exam prior to the scheduled time. Use of Personal Electronic Devices in the Classroom Using personal electronic devices in the classroom setting can hinder instruction and learning, not only for the student using the device but also other students in the class. The Allied Health 17

21 Department establishes the right of each faculty member to determine if and how personal electronic devices are allowed to be used in the classroom. Student Illness or Injury Injury in the classroom or clinical setting must be reported immediately to the instructor. For the protection of students, patients, clinical personnel, and faculty, the policies must be adhered to at all times. Students suffering from an obvious injury or illness that might jeopardize safe patient care must be removed from the clinical setting and may be required to furnish certification of health before returning to the class or clinical setting. Students who develop an active oral herpetic lesion will not be allowed to participate in clinical. Students must have a physician release on-file stating that they are physically able to participate fully without restriction or limitations in clinical. Limited assignments are not provided. It may be necessary for a student to withdraw from the program and return (space available) when their physician restrictions or limitations are lifted. In order to return to the clinical area, students must submit a written release from their physician stating the student has no limitations after an injury or illness. Injury Reporting Process: 1. Injury occurs. 2. Student immediately reports injury to the instructor. 3. Instructor assesses student to determine if he/she needs to go to the emergency room: If the student does not have an emergent injury: instructor and injured student must complete an Accident/Injury/Incident Report and forward to HR once complete. If the student does have an emergent injury that requires an emergency room visit: student must seek medical attention immediately. Once medical attention has been rendered, student must file a workers compensation claim by contacting the Gavilan College Human Resources Department at (408) Human Resources will follow up with the injured student if any further medical care required. Pregnancy Leave 1. Antepartum a. The student should notify the clinical instructor as soon as pregnancy is suspected as some scheduled observational experience may need to be eliminated for her safety and the protection of the fetus. b. The student may remain active in the nursing program with physician clearance until she delivers, provided she is able to meet all the weekly clinical laboratory objectives and her attendance record remains satisfactory. c. A written clearance without restriction from a physician (to be submitted to the Director of Nursing Education) is necessary. 18

22 2. Postpartum a. The student must present a written clearance from her attending physician. This should be submitted to the Director of Allied Health Programs. b. The absence policy of the nursing program will apply. Evaluation and Grading System At the beginning of each semester, the student is given a course outline with specific objectives and expected outcomes. Requirements and assignments will be specified. In addition, the lecture grading will be clearly defined on a percentage basis. In the clinical area, students will be given an individual evaluation of their clinical performance. Evaluation conferences will be arranged at the discretion of the instructor, either on campus or in the clinical area. If a student fails any one area of instruction, the result is failure for the entire course. The grading system used in the nursing program is in accordance with that used by the campus as a whole, which is as follows: A = indicative of excellent performance B = indicative of good performance C = indicative of a satisfactory performance D = less than satisfactory, not eligible for certification or licensure F = failing NC = no credit I = incomplete In the nursing program the following percentage values have been assigned to the letter grades of A, B, and C. A C grade is considered the lowest level that can be achieved in the nursing program and still successfully pass a course and proceed with the next course in the curriculum. A = % A- = 90-92% B+ = 87-89% B = 83-86% B- = 80-82% C+ = 77-79% C = 75-76% F = less than 75% Late Assignments Late assignments will receive ½ credit for one (1) week. No credit for any assignment after that time. Students must turn in all assignments for course completion. Math/Clinical Calculation Policy An essential aspect of safe nursing care is the ability to calculate medication dosages and rates for IV administration of fluids. It is expected that students are able to use basic arithmetic and basic algebra to calculate medication dosages and IV rates. Computer programs are available for practice in the computer lab. 19

23 Calculation tests will be given throughout the semester. Credit is given only for complete answers. No partial credit will be granted. No extra credit is possible to achieve competency. The final test must be passed with 90% in order for students to pass. The final may be repeated once. Inability to successfully complete requirements will result in failure for the course. Retention Students are offered assistance to succeed in the nursing program by receiving 1) extra help from instructors during office hours and 2) use of Nursing Skills Lab for practice of nursing skills and procedures. Skills Lab Assistant to help with use of Computer Lab for: a) clinical simulations b) nursing theory tutorials Clinical Evaluation In the clinical setting, students will be evaluated on a Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory basis. It is the faculty s belief that an evaluation based on Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory in the clinical setting will promote a greater atmosphere of learning in the clinical area and provide more consistency in clinical evaluations. Students must achieve a Satisfactory in all areas evaluated in order to progress. A student must demonstrate progressive mastery of skills. Failure in any one area will result in course failure. Rating for Clinical Evaluation Satisfactory Safe clinical performance; demonstrates expected skills, synthesis of learning and application of nursing principles at expected level. 1. Functions safely at expected level 2. Demonstrates ability to make expected observations 3. Demonstrates ability to relate and apply knowledge, clinical performance at expected level 4. Assumes responsibility for assignments 5. Makes appropriate nursing judgments at expected level 6. Initiates appropriate nursing interventions at expected level 7. Consistently seeks learning experiences 8. Consistently demonstrates expected professional conduct Needs Improvement Inconsistent clinical performance; inconsistently demonstrates expected skills, synthesis of learning and application of nursing principles at the expected level. 1. Functions safely only with continual guidance 2. Inconsistently demonstrates ability to make obvious observations related to patient care 3. Inconsistently relates knowledge to clinical situation at expected level 4. Inconsistent in assuming responsibility for assignment 5. Fails to seek guidance in making nursing judgments; makes occasional, unsafe nursing judgments 6. Inconsistent in initiating nursing intervention even with guidance 7. Seeks learning experiences only when prompted 20

24 8. Demonstrates expected professional conduct under continued guidance Unsatisfactory Clinical performance inadequate, indicates lack of skill, unsafe nursing practice, inadequate depth of knowledge, or application of nursing principles. Functions below expectations of student at this level. 1. Does not function safely even with guidance 2. Does not demonstrate ability to make expected, obvious observations related to patient care 3. Does not demonstrate ability to relate knowledge to clinical situation at expected level 4. Has difficulty accepting responsibility 5. Does not make safe nursing judgments 6. Does not initiate nursing intervention without maximum guidance 7. Seldom seeks learning experiences 8. Demonstrates unprofessional conduct 9. Failure to meet any critical element (see page 22) Unsafe Performance In the clinical setting, the nursing student practices under the immediate supervision of a nursing instructor. The student is directly responsible to the clinical instructor or preceptor, who is required to adhere to: a) guidelines and requirements of the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) and California Board of Vocational Nursing (BVN), b) the standards of Gavilan College, c) and the requirements of the agency s agreement with the college. Unsafe nursing care is any action or inaction on the part of the student that threatens the physical or emotional well-being of an individual. The instructor has the unquestioned authority to remove a student from the clinical setting whenever his/her personal behavior or physical/mental condition threatens the safety and welfare of clients. Students who exhibit behavior that may be due to impairment by alcoholism or drug abuse or emotional illness may be dismissed from the clinical setting for unsafe behavior. The student will not be readmitted into the Nursing Program unless there is evidence that the student has had treatment or rehabilitation to correct the illness. Clinical Probation Implementation of clinical probation means that students are given notice of a need to change their behavior in the clinical setting or face dismissal from the nursing program. Examples of reasons for clinical probation are: 1) Excessive absences (more than are allowed by college policy) 2) Failure to adhere to the General Code of Conduct according to the Nursing Program Student Handbook 3) Failure to meet Critical Elements for All Courses according to the Nursing Program Student Handbook 21

25 4) Failure to adhere to Gavilan College/Allied Health Department policies and procedures Students will be notified of probationary status in writing through clinical evaluations, either spontaneous or scheduled. *Critical Elements for All Courses Critical elements include those behaviors that are so important to nursing care that failure to perform them correctly is considered unsafe nursing care. Students may be immediately dismissed from the program for any of the following: 1. Failure to demonstrate honestly and integrity 2. Failure to wash hands at appropriate times 3. Failure to properly identify patient by arm bands 4. Failure to report significant change in patient condition 5. Failure to validate with instructor or preceptor therapy rationale when contrary to classroom instruction 6. Failure to recognize and report any error or unsafe condition 7. Failure to maintain strict confidentiality 8. Failure to correctly calculate dosages 9. Failure to administer medications and treatments correctly 10. Failure to recognize break in sterile technique 11. Failure to properly monitor IV therapy 12. Failure to demonstrate physical and emotional state adequate to perform safe patient care 13. Failure to recognize and report important patient data: a) abnormal vital signs b) change in condition c) new or worsening problems d) adverse reactions to drugs or treatments e) significant patient complaints 14. Failure to communicate important patient data: a) student to instructor b) student to nurse c) student to provider d) student to other disciplines e) student to patient 15. Failure to administer medications appropriately 16. Failure to complete an appropriate assessment 17. Failure to correctly plan, prioritize, implement, and evaluate care 18. Failure to adhere to Gavilan College policies and Allied Health Department policies All critical areas will be considered in evaluation of clinical performance. FAILURE IN ANY ONE OF THESE AREAS MAY RESULT IN THE STUDENT RECEIVING AN F IN THE COURSE Procedure for Examinations The following standards will be enforced during the giving and taking of examinations: 22