Associate Degree Nursing Student Handbook

Transcription

1 Keiser University Department of Academic Affairs Associate Degree Nursing Student Handbook Official governing policies and procedures Adopted August 29, 2007 Revisions: 02/26/13, 03/21/13, 03/30/13, 5/31/13, 8/16/13 For questions or comments concerning this handbook, please contact the Department of Academic Affairs. The information contained in this handbook is program specific and supplements the information contained in the institutional catalog. The administration reserves the right to amend, supplement or rescind these policies at any time without prior notification Keiser University, Inc. All rights reserved.

2 KEISER UNIVERSITY ASSOCIATE DEGREE NURSING PROGRAM STUDENT HANDBOOK TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION... 3 Foreword... 3 Equal Opportunity Statement... 3 KEISER UNIVERSITY OVERVIEW... 4 Introduction... 4 Mission Statement... 4 Goals... 4 NURSING PROGRAM OVERVIEW... 5 PROGRAM APPROVAL AND ACCREDITATION STATUS... 5 Role of the Professional Nurse... 5 Licensure to Practice as a Professional Nurse... 5 Potential Denial of License and/or Acceptance into Nursing Program... 6 CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK... 7 Program Mission Statement... 7 Program Philosophy... 7 NURSING ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE DEGREE CURRICULUM OVERVIEW Program Description Admissions Enrollment Process Scheduling Pre-Nursing Core Enrollment in General Education Courses Nursing Core Enrollment General Education Requirements (30 credit hours) Core Nursing Requirements (42.0 credit hours) Nursing Program Curriculum Changes PROGRAMMATIC REQUIREMENTS Dosage Calculation Tests ATI - Standardized Testing and Remediation Program PROGRAM DEMANDS PROGRAM CONTINUATION NURSING CORE COURSES PROFESSIONAL CORE COURSE REPEAT POLICY PRE-CLINICAL NURSING CORE REQUIREMENTS Medical Insurance Policy Criminal Background Check and Drug Screening Policy EXPOSURE TO BLOOD BORNE PATHOGENS & COMMUNICABLE DISEASES EXPOSURE INCIDENT POLICY HEPATITIS B IMMUNIZATION POLICY Hepatitis B Information Hepatitis B Vaccine MEDICAL RECORD CONFIDENTIALITY POLICY SOCIAL MEDIA AND CLINICAL EXPERIENCE POLICY

3 NURSING PROGRAM COSTS STANDARDS OF APPEARANCE Pre-Nursing Core Schedule Nursing Core Schedule CLINICAL NURSING EDUCATION Clinical Experience Selection Faculty Supervision of Nursing Students During Clinical Experiences Clinical Experience Variability by Site, Faculty, Assigned Student Group Selection of Clinical Sites Clinical/Skills Laboratory Performance ACADEMIC PROGRESSION/PROMOTION NURSING CORE COURSES ACADEMIC POLICIES Student Conduct Policies: Academic Honesty and Professional Behavior Confidentiality Agreement Clinical Experiences Clinical Education Requirement University/Course Withdrawal Standards of Attendance Program Attendance Policy SAFETY PROCEDURES COURSE/PROGRAM EVALUATION STUDENT GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE STUDENT SERVICES APPENDIX A American Nurses Association Code of Ethics APPENDIX B Criminal Background Check & Drug Screening Policy/Waiver

4 INTRODUCTION Foreword The Keiser University Catalog and the Nursing Student Handbook and Clinical Manual contain the policies and procedures of Keiser University and the Nursing Program. Due to the nature of the curriculum and the clinical expectations of the Program s graduates, program policies and procedures may be more stringent than those of the University. Students are responsible for becoming familiar with all the information contained in the University Catalog and the Nursing Program s Student Handbook and Clinical Manual. The student, throughout the duration of the program, should retain these materials and will receive copies of revised policies, procedures and/or revised editions. All faculty and students have the responsibility of preserving the privacy, dignity, and safety of all individuals who are part of the program and must maintain confidentially in all academic and clinical situations. Equal Opportunity Statement Keiser University s policy of equal opportunity, consistent with Federal policy, is that no person shall, on the grounds of race, creed, color, handicap, national origin, sex, age, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status or belief, be excluded from any training, be denied the benefit of training or be subjected to discrimination in any hiring practice or activity of the University. To ensure continued success in achieving equal opportunity and non-discrimination in all of its programs and departments, Keiser University hereby reaffirms that it is the responsibility of all staff, administration and supervisory personnel to work actively to ensure equal opportunities within their respective departments, as well as to demonstrate a personal and professional commitment to equal opportunity for all persons. Management and supervisory personnel have a responsibility to provide leadership and support for equal opportunity programs. 3

5 KEISER UNIVERSITY OVERVIEW Introduction Keiser University is an independent coeducational institution with locations throughout Florida, including campuses in Ft. Lauderdale, Daytona Beach, Jacksonville, Miami, Lakeland, Melbourne, Orlando, Pembroke Pines, Port St. Lucie, Sarasota, Tallahassee, Tampa, and West Palm Beach. The University prepares students of diverse backgrounds for career entry and advancement or university transfer. Keiser University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia, , [404] ) and is approved to award certificates, associate s, bachelor s, master s and doctoral degrees. Mission Statement Keiser University is a regionally accredited private career university that provides educational programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels for a diverse student body in traditional, nontraditional and online delivery formats. The main campus is located in Fort Lauderdale, with campuses located throughout the State of Florida and internationally. Through quality teaching, learning, and research, the university is committed to provide students with opportunities to develop the knowledge, understanding, and skills necessary for successful employment. Committed to a students first philosophy, Keiser University prepares graduates for careers in business, criminal justice, health care, technology, hospitality, education, and career-focused general studies. Inherent in the Mission is service to the community. This service includes community partnerships, involvement with various constituencies and various continuing education programs. Goals The following goals are integral to the Mission of the University: 1. To continually change, improve and ensure the effectiveness of the University's programs in preparing students for successful careers. 2. To engage and maintain a faculty that is well-qualified academically, possesses current technical and professional knowledge and experience and has the ability to convey this knowledge to students. 3. To improve written and verbal competencies of students as well as analytical and technical skills. 4. To provide facilities that support educational programs and enable students to develop profession-specific skills. 5. To engage and maintain a staff who is caring, provides student support and meets the University s educational goals and objectives. 6. To attract qualified students of diverse backgrounds. 7. To provide a collegiate atmosphere of academic freedom that encourages open exchange of ideas. 8. To provide distance learning activities through web-based courses and degrees. 9. To provide a commitment to research at the doctoral level. 4

6 NURSING PROGRAM OVERVIEW Program Approval and Accreditation Status Keiser University s Associate Degree Nursing Program, Orlando, Sarasota, Tallahassee, and Tampa campuses, hold continuing accreditation status by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Keiser University s Associate Degree Nursing program, Fort Lauderdale, Jacksonville, Melbourne, Lakeland, Miami and West Palm Beach campuses, hold continuing accreditation with conditions status by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, formerly National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC), 3343 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 850, Atlanta, Georgia 30326, , fax Keiser University s Associate Degree Nursing program, Jacksonville, Ft. Lauderdale, Miami, Lakeland, Melbourne, Orlando, Sarasota, Tallahassee, West Palm Beach and Tampa campuses, is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), 3343 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 850, Atlanta, Georgia 30326, (toll free #), Role of the Professional Nurse The Florida Nurse Practice Act and nursing s professional organization (American Nurses Association) define the practice of the registered nurse. The Registered Nurse is trained to provide basic nursing care in a variety of inpatient and outpatient areas such as medical/surgical, obstetrics, pediatrics, and psychiatry. The Registered Nurse is qualified to provide first-line supervision of the nursing care provided in designated areas such as a unit in a hospital, outpatient medical/surgical settings, doctor s offices, etc. The professional nurse with an associate degree is considered to be a generalist (vs. specialist ) in that s/he has been prepared to provide basic nursing care that does not require additional education beyond that included in their original curriculum. The Keiser University Associate Degree Nursing Program is designed to prepare the student to fulfill the requirements of an entry-level professional nurse. Applicants interested in obtaining a nursing licensure preparation degree beyond the associate degree level, are advised to consult with individual institutions regarding their specific degree requirements. Those who would like to pursue their baccalaureate in nursing degree incrementally may obtain an associate degree in nursing first, obtain licensure as a registered nurse after graduation, and then obtain their BSN in a degree-completion program such as Keiser s RN-to-BSN Program. Licensure to Practice as a Professional Nurse The Keiser University Nursing Program is designed to prepare students to practice as professional licensed nurses in a variety of clinical settings. Upon successful completion of the nursing program, the graduate is qualified by the Florida Board of Nursing to sit for the registered nursing licensure examination, the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses), as required by the Florida Nurse Practice Act. If the graduate passes this examination, s/he is then licensed as a Registered Nurse who may practice in the State of Florida. Because the examination is a national 5

7 examination, the nurse licensed in Florida may also, upon application, acquire licensure by endorsement, in other states. It is important to point out that national nursing accreditation is not required for state Board of Nursing approved Nursing Programs to graduate students who may take the licensure examination; students who graduate from Keiser University s Nursing Program are entitled to sit for this examination by the Florida Board of Nursing. The State of Florida professional Registered Nurse license is granted through the Board of Nursing at the following location: Initial Licensing & Fees Department of Health Board of Nursing 4052 Bald Cypress Way Bin C-02 Tallahassee, FL PHONE: FAX: At the end of each nursing course, an examination related to the content area included in the course is administered to students. The examinations correlate closely with the NCLEX examination. Individual and group performance on this examination will be evaluated on an ongoing basis to assess quality and appropriateness of instruction as well as student progress. Students will be expected to complete remedial instruction to address areas identified as deficient. Potential Denial of License and/or Acceptance into Nursing Program State or national laws through designated agencies regulate health professions. Each agency sets the specific requirements for granting licensure or certification to practice as a health care provider. Most agencies have restrictions on granting licensure or certification to an individual with a criminal record. Individuals who have been adjudicated and found guilty, or entered a plea of guilty or nolo contendere, in a criminal prosecution under the laws of any state or of the United States, for any offense involving moral turpitude, whether or not sentence is imposed, may be denied licensure or certification. Generally, agencies granting licensure or certification will not rule on individual cases until the individual is qualified by education and training to be licensed or certified. The Florida Nurse Practice Act (Chapter [FS]) specifies acts that may constitute grounds for denial of a license. Because nursing students are engaged in providing direct patient care over the course of their tenure in the Nursing Program, they are also accountable in this area. Accordingly, background screening by such agencies as law enforcement and the abuse registry will be required prior to entry into the nursing core curriculum; results consistent with the above requirements is necessary for students to participate in clinical experiences throughout the program. 6

8 CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK Program Mission Statement The Keiser University Nursing Program utilizes an evidence-based approach to educate a diverse student body into the practice of nursing; reflecting the best traditions of the art and science of the nursing profession. To meet the ever changing healthcare needs of society, the program commits to providing patient-centered care through the use of integrated technologies, inter/intradisciplinary collaboration, and sound clinical judgment in a professional, safe and effective environment. Program Philosophy The Nursing Philosophy is a shared vision of Keiser University and the nursing program focused on a belief system encompassing four core values (holism, integrity, excellence and diversity) central to the acquisition of essential knowledge (cognitive), skills (psychomotor) and attitudes (affective) in achieving successful program outcomes. Core values represent the foundational principles which drive the nursing program. These principles are congruent with the Keiser University Mission, Goals and Philosophy Statement as listed in Keiser University catalog. Core Values Holism - Caring that focuses on the whole person emphasizing health promotion, disease prevention, social norms, cultural values, religious practices, moral and ethical constructs, and the individual s environment. Integrity - Adhering to moral and ethical principles through an inner sense of wholeness and honesty with consistency of character and accuracy of actions. Excellence - Exceeding established program standards and reflecting a commitment to continuous personal and professional growth. Diversity - Embracing an understanding of self and others by respecting and accepting differences in people, ideas, values, ethnicity, cultures and beliefs. Interwoven Concepts An integration of professional nursing processes, delivered throughout the curriculum in support of achieving established student learning outcomes and program goals. Safe & Effective Environment Consistent, individualized nursing care to reduce actual or potential risk; improving patient outcomes by promoting and utilizing current evidence-based practice to ensure a safe and effective environment. 7

9 Patient-Centered Care Delivery of care through a holistic approach, focusing on patient-centered needs in meeting optimal physiological and psychological integrity. Health Promotion and Maintenance Maintain and promote a health and wellness continuum by providing culturally competent care through individualized interventions and education. Life-Long Learning Demonstrates and participates in self-directed learning that fosters professional standards, requirements and continuing education within the nursing profession. Student Learning Outcomes The culmination of measurable competencies linked to the program s three learning domains and consistent with professional nursing standards for entry level practice within the nursing profession Inter/Intradisciplinary Collaboration Utilize effective communication and shared decision making within a health care team to assist patient and families achievement of health goals. Technology Integration Apply evidence based information technology to support clinical decision making, error prevention and care coordination. Judgment/Reasoning Apply knowledge and experience in identifying patient needs that direct clinical judgments and actions resulting in optimal patient outcomes. Professionalism Model behaviors of integrity, accountability, responsibility, caring, advocacy, moral and ethical practices in the pursuit of excellence. Program Goals Statements The Nursing Program s Mission is further defined by the following goals: Students will utilize effective interdisciplinary collaboration within a health care environment. Students will integrate evidence based technologies to support clinical decision making. Students will utilize clinical judgment and reasoning to promote optimal patient care. Students will model behaviors of professionalism in the pursuit of excellence. Students will possess the necessary breadth of knowledge and skills for obtaining entry-level employment as a professional registered nurse. 8

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11 NURSING PROGRAM STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES Cognitive Psychomotor Affective Inter/Intradisciplinary Collaboration Technology Integration Differentiate various health care roles and scopes of practice within a health care team. Discuss the role of a multidisciplinar y approach to effective health care, across the health-illness continuum, for patients, families, communities, society as a whole. Discuss the role of evidencebased research in the effective practice of nursing and health care. Discuss evidence-based resources available to the practicing clinical nurse to enhance nursing care. Demonstrate therapeutic communication techniques with diverse members of the health care team. Function in the role as a professional nurse demonstrating independent, interdependent, and dependent nursing actions as appropriate. Plan patient care and document data/actions in an electronic health record. Utilize evidencebased findings, where appropriate, to promote and evaluate nursing care for diverse patient populations. Promote the role of nursing as an integral participant of the health care team. Communicate the role of collaborative partnerships in the promotion of wellness and the management of illness. Internalize the nursing process by collecting, interpreting, and clustering relevant data prior to making nursing decisions. Explore technological advances as a means to improve patient care for diverse patient populations. 10

12 Judgment/Reasoning Demonstrate problem solving skills and prioritization in the health care setting when managing a team of patients. Formulate an individualized plan of care for patients that present with multi-system involvement. Organize a plan of care for a team of patients utilizing appropriate priority setting and delegation skills. Appropriately react to an emergent situation, either in simulation or in practice, prioritizing care and managing the patient situation as it changes. Incorporate the art and science of nursing into the development of one s professional nursing role. Exhibit the ability to identify one s strengths and weaknesses as a professional nurse in relation to appropriate decision making with diverse patient populations. Professionalism Differentiate the ethical-legal responsibilities of each member of the health care team when providing health care to critically ill patients/familie s. Discuss the role of integrity in the practice of professional nursing. Perform as a member of the health care team in a responsible and accountable manner. Act in the role of patient/family advocate, as applicable. Adhere to professional practices that reflect the ethical and legal standards of nursing. Integrate into one s nursing role the behaviors consistent with professional standards as set forth by the Florida Board of Nursing and the Nurse Practice Act. 11

13 NURSING ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE DEGREE CURRICULUM OVERVIEW Program Description Keiser University s Associate of Science degree in Nursing prepares students to practice professional nursing. Professional nursing involves the performance of those acts requiring substantial specialized knowledge, judgment and nursing skill based upon applied principles of biological, physical, psychological and social sciences. The nursing practice of a professional nurse includes but is not limited to: Observation, assessment, nursing diagnosis, planning, intervention and evaluation of care; Health teaching and counseling of individuals who may be ill, injured or infirm; Promotion of wellness, maintenance of health, and prevention of illness in others; Administration of treatments and medications as prescribed in accordance with standards of nursing practice. Admissions Enrollment Process The following is the admissions enrollment process for prospective applicants to the University and to the Nursing Program. Each step must occur consecutively to ensure the integrity of the program s requirements. Applicant completes student application form and pays both application fee and registration fee (refundable to the candidate if not admitted) Applicant provides proof of high school graduation or GED Applicant provides unofficial college transcripts (if applicable) Applicant takes the Nursing entrance exam (TEAS) Applicant must achieve a passing score in each of the 4 categories of the TEAS Minimum passing scores for each category are as follows: Reading 76% Math 75% Science 56% English 70% Dean of Academic Affairs reviews applicants transcript Upon passing the TEAS the applicant will be interviewed by the Program Director or designee Selection Committee reviews all pertinent applicant information and makes a determination for program acceptance Student is notified of Committee s decision 12

14 * Passing scores on TEAS exams are accepted from institutions outside of Keiser University. Refer to retake policy below for any category not passed. Retake Policy for TEAS: A nursing candidate can retake any category(s) of the most current version of the TEAS in which a passing score was not achieved. The retake must be done no sooner than one week and no longer than 3 months from the date the original test was taken. Scheduling The Keiser University Nursing Program consists of two semesters of general education and support courses and four core curriculum semesters of support and nursing courses, for a total of six semesters. Keiser University conducts courses on a year round basis with scheduled breaks each year. The Nursing core portion of the program is taught in a sequential manner in that each core course is either a co-requisite or prerequisite for the subsequent program course offered. After the admission process is completed, a schedule is prepared for the student that includes all required general education and nursing courses. Pre-Nursing Core Enrollment in General Education Courses Students may be scheduled for day, evening or online general education courses, depending upon availability, student preference, the number of courses transferred, and the time frame within which courses must be completed. Students entering the Nursing Program present with varying abilities in math and English; basic math and basic English requirements are evaluated prior to scheduling in these courses to determine the most appropriate placement. During the pre-core/general education period, students may have schedule gaps which are periods when no classes are scheduled. It is imperative that all students understand that they MUST attain at least a C in each general education course and an overall GPA of 3.0 prior to entry into the nursing core; this is calculated prior to the start of the first nursing course. Students who fail to attain a cumulative 3.0 GPA will NOT be permitted to enter the Nursing Program. Students are assigned an Academic Advisor who is available for consultation during the pre-core period. While the Advisor tracks students progress up to their entry into the nursing core, it is the students primary responsibility to ensure that they are continuing to meet course, grade, and GPA requirements. 13

15 Nursing Core Enrollment The Nursing core curriculum is designed in a sequential manner in that each Nursing Program course is either a co-requisite or prerequisite for the subsequent program course offered; therefore, successful completion of each course is a requirement for progression throughout the Nursing Program. To advance to successive nursing courses, students must achieve a course grade of C with a minimum 76%, earn a minimum score of 90% on the dosage calculation test required in each core course (two attempts only), pass each critical skill performance (two attempts only), pass each clinical component and maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 (on a 4.0 scale). Students who do not meet these requirements will not be allowed to progress in the core curriculum. If the student wishes to repeat the course to continue his/her program of study, s/he must contact the Nursing Program Director who will determine the student s status of eligibility for re-entry to the Program. If eligible, s/he will be required to go through the re-entry process as outlined in the Keiser University Catalog (Academic Re-Admittance Policy). Due to regulatory restrictions on nursing class sizes, eligible returning nursing students may have to wait until an opening is available in the class that they are required to take. NURSING PROGRAM COURSE REQUIREMENTS General Education Requirements (30 credit hours) CGS1000C- Introduction to Computers (3.0 credit hours) This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of operating personal computer equipment, including the basics of word processing, database management, electronic spreadsheets, and presentation graphs. Experience with computers and selected software is stressed. ENC1101- English Composition (3.0 credit hours) The development of students writing skills to achieve career goals is emphasized in this course. Skills include writing clear, well-developed paragraphs, essays, and research papers. Teaches the principles of prewriting, organizing, drafting, revising, and editing paragraphs and essays. Includes basic research utilizing traditional techniques and databases and documentation methods. DEP Life Span Development (3.0 credit hours) This course includes the study of human growth and development across the life span. Emphasis on the relationship of structure and function to the development of movement skills from infancy to old age. Basic cognitive, social and emotional needs are explored. PSY Introduction to Psychology (3.0 credit hours) Introduces terms and concepts dealing with basic psychological research methods, human and animal behavior, life-span development, states of 14

16 consciousness, learning, memory, intelligence, motivation, personality structure, stress and coping, behavioral disorders, social pressures and cultures. J Students are encouraged to apply critical thinking strategies through their participation in various discussions of psychological theories and concepts throughout this course. (Gordon Rule course requiring a grade of C or higher, Keiser requires a minimum of 4,000 words for the course.) MAT Intermediate Algebra (3.0 credit hours) Topics such as factoring; operations with rational expressions; absolute value; exponents, radicals and roots; linear and quadratic equations and linear inequalities and graphs, are addressed in this course, including application. BSC2085C - Anatomy and Physiology I (4.0 credit hours) This course is a survey of the structure, function and chemistry of the human body considering the following topics: body organization, the cell, tissues, membranes, glands, the integumentary system, the skeletal system, the muscular system, the nervous system and the special senses. Laboratory experience includes microscopic observation, experimentation, study of anatomical models and dissection. BSC2086C - Anatomy and Physiology II (4.0 credit hours) A continuation of the anatomy and physiology sequence, this course includes the following topics: the circulatory system, the urinary system, fluids and electrolytes, and the reproductive system. Laboratory experience includes microscopic observation, study of anatomical models and dissection. AML1000/ENL American or English Literature (3.0 credit hours) This humanities course includes the exploration of American/British literary texts. Historical background and social forces which shape literature are emphasized. Literary genres and elements are explored. MCB2000C- Microbiology 4.0 credit hours The fundamentals of microbiology, evaluating microbial structure and function, metabolism, growth, genetics, virology environmental control, ecology, pathogenicity; laboratory application of concepts are addressed in this course. Core Nursing Requirements (42.0 credit hours) NUR1022C Fundamentals of Nursing (8.0 credit hours) Provides a foundation for the nursing program. Introduces the history and practice of nursing, including standards of nursing practice and concepts basic to nursing that are applied throughout the curriculum. Critical thinking as embodied in the nursing process is emphasized, including in-depth study in a classroom setting and application in skills laboratories and clinical settings. Normal functional health patterns are explored in the context of the physical, biological and social sciences. Laboratory components include practice in basic nursing assessment 15

17 skills such as; completion of health history, physical assessment techniques and common nursing skills that support basic human needs. Principles of safety, asepsis and infection control are emphasized throughout. Opportunities for application of basic nursing skills clinical experiences are provided in ambulatory and long term health care settings. Clinical settings may include but are not limited to acute care, long-term care and community settings. NUR1140 Nursing Pharmacology (4.0 credit hours) Presents essential concepts and principles of pharmacology as applied to nursing practice. Emphasis is on fundamental application of the nursing process to the care of patients/clients receiving pharmaceutical agents. The knowledge and skills required for safe, effective administration of therapeutic drugs are an integral part of this course. The course contains a number of critical skills related to dosage calculation and medication administration that must be performed without error to achieve a passing grade for the course. NUR1211C - Basic Adult Healthcare (8.0 credit hours) Focuses primarily on basic medical-surgical nursing care of adults who are acutely or chronically ill. The course builds upon learned concepts and skills introduced in prerequisite nursing and general education courses. A continuation of dosage calculations is evident. The patho-physiologic basis for diseases along with the patient s/client s adaptive responses are explored and discussed. Secondary/acute care settings, particularly hospitals, are utilized in this course. NUR2421C Maternity Nursing Care (4.0 credit hours) Focuses primarily on maternity nursing care, with exposure to common problems associated with the health of mother, newborn and family. Concepts and skills learned in previous courses are integral to this course, with emphasis on developmental theories relating to the care of the family unit. Dosage calculations related to maternity care are emphasized. Primary, secondary and tertiary care settings may be utilized for clinical experiences, including outpatient care and hospitals. NUR2230C - Advanced Adult Healthcare (8.0 credit hours) Continues medical/surgical content from NUR1211C (Basic Adult Health Care). Builds upon the knowledge and skills acquired in this course, including continued integration of the concepts central to the practice of nursing. A continuation of dosage calculation is emphasized. Didactic and clinical content related to complex concepts and skills associated with medical-surgical and mental health nursing are presented within the framework of the nursing process. Mental health nursing components include the further development of student communication skills, and conceptual abilities as related to the dynamics of human behavior and therapeutic responses. Secondary and tertiary care settings are primarily utilized for clinical experiences, including general/acute care hospitals, psychiatric hospitals and community mental health centers. 16

18 NUR2310C Pediatric Nursing (4.0 credit hours) Focuses primarily on the interrelated dynamics of pediatric families; with exposure to common recurring and complex problems associated with the health of the pediatric patient/client within the family unit. Concepts and skills as presented in previous courses are integral to this course, with emphasis on developmental theories relating to the care of children. Dosage calculations related to pediatric patients / clients are emphasized. Primary, secondary and tertiary care settings may be utilized for clinical experiences, including outpatient care, hospitals and pediatric programs (which may include outpatient, inpatient and community care). NUR2817C - Nursing Roles Practicum (6.0 credit hours) Requires students to utilize previously learned skills, attitudes and behaviors. Didactic and clinical content include but are not limited to the development of: leadership and delegation concepts, time management, collaboration, prioritization, principles of legal responsibilities and ethical decision-making. Classroom content also includes preparation for success on the NCLEX-RN licensure examination. The clinical component is designed for students to demonstrate readiness to assume the role of a safe, entry-level, professional registered nurse. Clinical oversight may include experiences with faculty and/or an approved RN preceptor in an affiliated facility. Facilities may include but are not limited to acute care, skilled nursing, and community settings. A continuation of dosage calculation mastery is expected. Sample Nursing Program Curriculum (Individual Schedules for General Education Courses are Variable) Semester Course NUR1022C Fundamentals of Nursing NUR1140 Nursing Pharmacology NUR1211C Basic Adult Healthcare NUR2421C Maternity Nursing Care NUR2230C Advanced Adult Healthcare NUR2310C Pediatric Nursing NUR2817C Nursing Roles Practicum Credit Hours Total Credits

19 Nursing Program Curriculum Changes As the nursing curriculum must reflect the changing nature of the nursing profession, some restructuring of the nursing curriculum will occur periodically. Due to this potential restructuring, students who withdraw or are dismissed from one class due to academic or clinical failure and who return to complete the program with another class are required to meet the graduation requirements of the current curriculum and abide by current programmatic policies and procedures. PROGRAMMATIC REQUIREMENTS Throughout the nursing curriculum, there are programmatic requirements that must be fulfilled by the student to pass the course and continue in the Nursing Program. Dosage Calculation Tests Successful completion of basic mathematics and metric conversions are required to accurately calculate medication dosages, IV flow rates, IV medication titrations, and routes for drug administration. Each nursing course requires students to pass a dosage calculation test with a minimum score of 90% after two attempts. If the student does not pass the dosage calculation test with a minimum score of 90% after two attempts s/he will not pass the course, and therefore cannot advance in the program until successful course completion is achieved (refer to the Professional Core Course Repeat Policy). ATI - Standardized Testing and Remediation Program At the start of the Nursing Core, in the first nursing course, students are enrolled in the Standardized Testing and Remediation Program. At this time, they are issued a password and user name that enables them to access practice tests. Standardized Testing: Conclusion of Each Nursing Course Throughout the Nursing Core, students are required to participate in the Standardized Testing and Remediation Program. They are administered standardized achievement tests that relate to course content at the conclusion of each nursing course. The purpose of this program is to gauge the student s basic understanding of nursing theory and practice in comparison to other students at the same level of nursing education whose schools participate in the program. The results of these examinations are factored into the student s overall course grade and are an important assessment tool in evaluating the progressive level of retention necessary for success on course proctored assessment tests and the nursing licensure examination (NCLEX-RN). Practice tests are introduced in the first nursing core semester and are integrated into all subsequent core courses; contributing to the students overall course grade. Practice tests are 18

20 preparatory tools utilized for the proctored assessment tests required in core course during semesters 2-4, and for the comprehensive predictor test required in the Nursing Roles Practicum course (NUR2817C). Results of the practice tests and the course proctored assessment test enable the program to evaluate and monitor student s progression of knowledge and applications on a course by course basis. Areas showing a need for improvement are identified within each course and an individualized remediation program is designed to assist the student in achieving success on subsequent standardized tests. Students are required to pass each proctored assessment test at a proficiency level of 2 or higher; based on a scale of 3 levels, with 3 being the highest level of proficiency (seen in Table 1.1). Required Remediation/Retesting Students who have a score of less than 80% on practice tests and score below a level 2 on a course proctored assessment test will be required to participate in the remediation program. The remediation program is individually prescribed by the student s ATI practice test and proctored assessment test results. ATI automatically identifies any test area showing a need for improvement. The student is required to remediate areas identified as needing improvement through the utilization of ATI books and resources. Failure to participate in the remediation program could result in probation/dismissal in the course/program. Students who score below a level 2 on a course proctored assessment test will be permitted one re-take upon completing the two week remediation program. Failure to achieve a proficiency level of 2 for the second time will result in zero points contributing to the ATI grading category as listed on the course control document. Zero points in this category could cause the student to receive a failing grade (score of < 76%) for the course. A student that receives a failing grade will not pass the course, and therefore cannot advance in the program until successful course completion is achieved (refer to the Professional Core Course Repeat Policy). Table Proctored Assessment Test Level Cut Score to Grade Conversion Rubric (SAMPLE) Proficiency Levels Program Interpretation Programmatic Action Level Cut Score to Grade Conversion* Level 3 Scores meeting the Proficiency Level 3 standard may be considered to exceed most expectations for performance in this Program encourages students to stay engaged in continuous focused review to maintain and improve knowledge of content area % = 100% 19

21 Level 2 Level 1 & below content area. Scores meeting the Proficiency Level 2 standard may be considered to exceed minimum expectations for performance in the content area. Scores meeting the Proficiency Level 1 standard may be considered to meet the absolute minimum expectations for the performance in this content area; but are considered insufficient in demonstrating competency for the content area. Scores below Level 1 standard can be considered below minimum expectations and are considered insufficient in demonstrating competency for the content area. Program advises students to engage in continuous focused review in order to improve their knowledge of content area. Program requires students scoring Level 1 standard or below to complete the remediation program with an intense plan of action; designed by nurse educators. The plan is to outline recommended methodologies for content area improvement. Upon remediation completion students are permitted one re-take of the course proctored assessment test % = 90% % = 80% 66.6% and below 2 nd attempt = 0% *Level cut scores to grade conversion scores vary with each core course in which proctored assessment tests are required. Refer to the Proctored Assessment Test Grading Methodology provided to students for each core course. Standardized Testing: Conclusion of Nursing Core Courses Students are required to achieve a minimum score of 94% on the Predicted Probability of Passing NCLEX-RN category on the comprehensive predictor test. Students who score below an 94% on the Predicted Probability of Passing NCLEX-RN category on the Nursing Practicum course comprehensive predictor test will be permitted one retake upon completing the two week remediation program. Failure to achieve a score of 94% for the second time will result in zero points for the Comprehensive Predictor; contributing to the overall ATI Proctored Assessment & Remediation grading percentage listed under the course evaluation strategies (methodologies) section of the NUR2817C course control document (refer to the Professional Core Course Repeat Policy). 20

22 NCLEX-RN Preparation A major component of the standardized testing program is preparation for the NCLEX-RN, registered nursing licensure examination. In the last semester prior to nursing students graduation from the Nursing Program, students are required to complete a series of computerized practice and predictive tests that simulate NCLEX questions. Students are required to complete 3,000+ documented NCLEX-preparation questions. Students may also elect to use additional approved computerized test preparation tools produced by other vendors, which the Nursing Program fully supports. The Nursing Program maintains a menu of tools/resources that may be used on campus by students. Also during the last semester, the Nursing Program provides students with an NCLEX preparation workshop. Prior to graduation, a final NCLEXtype predictive test is taken by the student; areas identified as requiring follow-up form the basis for students post-graduate NCLEX-preparation plan. Up to one year after graduation, graduates may access all available web site resources, using their original assigned password. PROGRAM DEMANDS At this point, it is appropriate to emphasize the significance of effort required to succeed in the Nursing Program. One cannot overestimate the amount of time and energy that is required of the nursing student. Each nursing course requires considerable effort outside of the classroom, skills laboratory, and clinical schedules. Substantial technical reading assignments, weekly writing, research assignments of a lengthy and complex nature, and nursing skills practice easily double and even triple the time commitment required during scheduled classes. Individuals must carefully evaluate their motivation and ability to commit to this schedule for a period of almost two years, particularly after the nursing core begins. Due to predictable and occasionally unpredictable shifts in class and clinical scheduling (including some early morning and late evening hours), consistent, reliable arrangements for meeting home and outside employment obligations must be established and maintained throughout the period of enrollment to support the students success in the Nursing Program. Keiser University and the Nursing Program are likewise committed to supporting each individual nursing student s success by offering a quality education and an array of practical tools that can assist students in acquiring the values, knowledge, and skills that are necessary for practice as a professional nurse. PROGRAM CONTINUATION Professional Registered Nurses are licensed health professionals in all fifty states. All states require that graduates of nursing programs pass a licensure exam (the NCLEX-RN) and proof of continued competency in the profession of nursing through continuing education. The Nursing Program has set grading standards designed to demonstrate that 21

23 required competencies have been mastered and to assist graduates in achieving passing scores in the licensure exam. General Education Courses To progress in the general education component of the Nursing program the student must earn a grade of C or higher. In order to proceed to the nursing core the student must have completed the general education component of the program with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale). Earning a grade of D or F in any course and/or not attaining a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) in the general education component will prevent admission into the core program. A student may repeat a failed course, however, each course is offered once in the curriculum, therefore, the returning student may experience a wait time until the course is offered again; this may cause a delay in the student s start date for entering the core component of the program. Nursing Core Courses To advance in the nursing core component of the program students are required to: 1. Earn a minimum course grade of C with a 76% 2. Earn a minimum score of 90% on the dosage calculation test required in each core course (2 attempts only) 3. Pass each critical skills performance for each core course (2 attempts only) 4. Pass each clinical component of the program 5. Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 (on a 4.0 scale) Professional Core Course Repeat Policy If a student fails a core course or receives an unsatisfactory grade of C with less than a 76%, or is unable to meet the requirements for advancement in the nursing core component of the program the student will not pass the course until successful course completion is achieved. Students who have received an unsatisfactory grade will meet with the Program Director to determine the student s eligibility status to repeat the course or re-enter the program. Re-entry is always contingent upon evaluation of the student s GPA status and not exceeding maximum class size capacity. If a student needs to repeat a professional core course or re-enter the program the student may experience a wait time as courses are only offered in their normal sequence. If a class is at full capacity, a student may experience additional wait time as the desired course re-sequences. Depending on the length of time a student is out of the program, there could be a recommendation made by the Program Director, to have the student audit previous course(s) in an attempt to re-establish lost skills. A student can only repeat the same core course once. If the student fails the same course a second time, the student will be dismissed from the program. A student can repeat two different core courses; however if a third failure occurs within the major courses, the student will be dismissed from the program and will no longer be eligible for the Nursing Program. If a student has been out of the program for one year or more, the student must re-start the Nursing Program from the beginning of the core courses. 22

24 Repeat of courses may not be covered by Financial Aid. PRE-CLINICAL NURSING CORE REQUIREMENTS At the beginning of the first nursing course and prior to entering the clinical setting, students will be required to provide evidence of the following: 1. A physical examination, completed 4-6 weeks prior to entering the first Nursing Core course: the practitioner who completes this examination must attest to the individual s ability and readiness for work in a professional capacity as a nurse (physically, mentally, emotionally; Essential Functions for Coursework ) 2. A negative TB test and/or chest x-ray when indicated (chest x-ray required every other year with positive TB test) 3. Current immunizations, affirming currency of immunizations 4. Active medical insurance 5. CPR (healthcare provider) certification 6. Background screening (Level II or Level III), at approved vendor: results must conform to the requirements set forth by the Florida Board of Nursing; results must be sent directly to the University 7. Drug screening, at approved vendor: results must be sent directly to the University 8. Evidence of annual renewal of TB tests and medical insurance are required at the designated interval after the individual has started in the Nursing Program. A packet of forms will be provided by the Nursing Program Director and must ALL be completed/signed prior to entering the first core class, NUR 1022C Fundamentals of Nursing. Prior to starting clinical instruction in nursing courses, students will be required to attend/participate in healthcare institution orientation sessions, which may include computer instruction. These sessions are scheduled at the discretion of the institution. Medical Insurance Policy Nursing students must have active and current health insurance prior to participating in the Nursing Program clinical. Before clinical courses begin, the student must furnish the Program Director a copy of a valid insurance card that will be placed in the student file. Keiser University does not provide student health insurance. Keiser University is not responsible for any health costs pertaining to any injury sustained at a clinical externship site. Criminal Background Check and Drug Screening Policy Students will be subject to criminal background checks and drug screenings prior to enrollment in the program and/or at any time throughout the duration of the program as per the request from the program s clinical affiliates. The Nursing 23