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Download Student Policies - Georgia Regents University
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College of Nursing Student Policies 1 of 41 College of Nursing Student Policies and Procedures We welcome you to the College of Nursing at Georgia Regents University and commend you on your choice of profession. Bachelor, Masters, and Doctoral prepared Registered Nurses are vital members of the health care team and are given the responsibilities of serving society and assisting patients during times of illness or injury. We will do all we can to provide you with the best education and training possible. However, you must take an active role in your education to learn the foundational theories and skills in order to prepare yourself for the responsibilities that lie ahead of you. Your interest, motivation, and dedication to this profession will bring many rewards as you complete your educational program and move into your new role with the health care team. We wish you success as you pursue your course of study! As a professional student, you are responsible for following the Academic Regulations, GRU and College of Nursing Policies, and Program Specific Guides as outlined below. Students are expected to be knowledgeable about the regulations, policies, and program guides. If there are any questions, students are expected to seek clarification from the Program Director and/or the Assistant Dean of Student Services. Any violation of the policies and regulations is prohibited and may result in academic dismissal. GRU Academic Regulations -- http://catalog.georgiahealth.acalog.com/content.php?catoid=7&navoid=707 GRU Student Handbook -- http://www.georgiahealth.edu/students/Handbook/ Student Conduct Code and Procedures College of Nursing Policies -- http://www.georgiahealth.edu/nursing/currentstudents.html College of Nursing Program Guides -- http://www.georgiahealth.edu/nursing/currentstudents.html College of Graduate Studies Program Guides -- http://www.georgiahealth.edu/gradstudies/students.html Masters Guide PhD Guide While the provisions of the above are as accurate and complete as possible, GRU and the College of Nursing and College of Graduate Studies reserves the right to change any provision herein without notice if circumstances so warrant. Every effort will be made to keep students advised of such changes. However, it is the responsibility of each student to know what changes have been made and to successfully adhere and meet the policies to successfully complete the requirements of the program. College of Nursing Student Policies SECTION I – GRU STUDENT HANDBOOK Clergy Act of 1990 Conduct of Research Conflict of Interest Correction of Information in Student Record Criminal Conviction Disclosure Drug Abuse Policy Statement Federal, Criminal and Civil Sanctions Financial Obligations of Students HIV/ Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) Policy for Students Immunization Policy Information on the Official Academic Record Information Systems Security and Computer Usage Policy Intellectual Property Policy Jury Duty Participation of Students in Educational Experiences Physical Disabilities and Learning Disorders Protected Health Information Records Withheld (Flagged) Refunds Requests to Report to an Administrative Officer Release of Information from Student Records Right-to-Know Law Information Regarding Graduation Rate Data Tobacco-Free Environment Policy Statement Solicitation Student Organization Registration Procedures Use of Animals for Educational Purposes Policy Statement Voter Registration GRU Student Conduct Code and Procedures Student Rights General Policies Institutional Authority for Discipline of Students Student Conduct Code (Student Responsibilities) Administration of Judicial Procedures Judicial Committee Proceedings Penalties Judicial Records Temporary Suspension Provisions for Honor Systems within Each College Appeals SECTION II -- GRU ACADEMIC REGULATIONS Academic Honesty Academic Calendar Academic Probation, Dismissal and Suspension Adding and Dropping Classes Attendance Auditors Classification of Students Continuing Enrollment during Breaks in Academic Calendar Course Numbering System Curriculum Changes Dean’s List 2 of 41 College of Nursing Student Policies Educational Records Examinations Good Standing and Satisfactory Progress Grades Grade Changes Graduation with Honors Late Registration Policy Normal Course Load Planning the Academic Program Professional Liability Insurance Registration Registration for Make-up of Incomplete Grades Repeated Course Work Requirements for Graduation Units of Credit Withdrawal from the University SECTION III – STATE AND FEDERAL REGULATIONS Georgia Open Records Act FERPA HIPAA SECTION IV – COLLEGE OF NURSING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES Academic Eligibility and Progression Standards Academic Dismissal Academic Suspension Academic Integrity and Judicial Procedures Advisor Advising Committee Assignment Policy Assignment Due Extension Attendance Policy Blood and Body Fluid Exposure Campus Closing Change in Health Status Clinical Information Minimum Requirements Schedule Expectations Medication Administration Communication with Faculty Computer Lab Confidentiality Counseling Services Course Credit Hours Course and Clinical Evaluations Criminal Background Check Curriculum Changes Disability Services Dress Code and Personal Hygiene Drug Screens Emergency Loan Program Essential Functions for Safe Nursing Practice Ethics Policy Evaluation of Course Assignments 3 of 41 College of Nursing Student Policies Examination Guidelines Examination Review FERPA Graduation Information Grading Policy Grade Appeal Policy Health Care Agency Requirements Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Honor Code Independent Study Inclement Weather Guidelines Laptop Policy Leaves of Absences and Unanticipated Time Off Mathematical Competency Occurrence (Variance) Policy Out of Sequence/ Off Track Professional Behaviors Professional Concerns Professional Liability Insurance Student Employment Student Health Insurance Student Identification Student Record Policy Substance Abuse Tardiness Technology Requirements Time Commitment Transfers – external programs / transfer credits Vacation Withdrawal Attachments Attachment A – GRU Confidentiality Form Attachment B – GRU Health System Confidentiality Statement Form Attachment C – Student Applied Learning Experience Agreement Form Attachment D – Authorization of Release of Records and Information Form Attachment F – BSN Academic Dismissal Policy and Procedure 4 of 41 College of Nursing Student Policies 5 of 41 SECTION I ------- GRU STUDENT HANDBOOK http://www.georgiahealth.edu/students/Handbook/ Annual Notice of Privacy Rights Location of Records Release of Information from Student Records Correction of Information in Student Records Public Directory Information Information on the Official Academic Record Records Withheld (Flagged) Refunds Policy for Student Mailings Class Rings Clery Act of 1990 Conduct of Research Conflict of Interest Criminal Conviction Disclosure Drug Abuse Policy Statement Federal Criminal and Civil Sanctions Financial Obligations of Students HIV/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) Policy for Students Immunization Policy Information Systems Security and Computer Usage Policy Intellectual Property Policy Jury Duty Ownership and Retention of Scholarly Research Records Participation of Students in Educational Experiences Physical Disabilities and Learning Disorders Protected Health Information Requests to Report to an Administrative Officer Right-to-Know Law Information Regarding Graduation Rate Data Tobacco-Free Environment Policy Statement Solicitation Student Organization Registration Procedures Use of Animals for Educational Purposes Policy Statement Voter Registration STUDENT CONDUCT CODE AND PROCEUDURES Student Rights General Policies Institutional Authority for Discipline of Students Student Conduct Code (Student Responsibilities) Academic Dishonesty (Cheating) Conduct Irregularity Disorderly Conduct Dress Falsification of University Records (including misrepresentation by omission) Drugs/Narcotic Violations Violations of Law Governing Use of Alcohol in College of Nursing Student Policies 6 of 41 Conduct Irregularity while Under the Influence Violation of local, state, or federal law on or off campus Fire & Explosion Safety Gambling Theft Unauthorized Entry or Use of University Facilities Firearms and other lethal weapons Violations of Professional Ethics Any violations of the policies and regulations of GRU or BOR Administration of Judicial Procedures Judicial Committee Proceedings Penalties Judicial Records Temporary Suspension Provisions for Honor Systems Within Each College Appeals SECTION II ------- GRU ACADEMIC REGULATIONS http://catalog.georgiahealth.acalog.com/content.php?catoid=7&navoid=707 The Office of the Registrar provides academic and enrollment services in support of the Georgia Regents University's diverse academic community. The Office is the steward of student academic records and regulations. The College of Nursing Programs subscribes to the following GRU regulations. Areas identified with an (*) are further expanded in the College Specific Policies. Academic Calendar Academic Honesty * Academic Probation, Dismissal and Suspension Adding and Dropping Courses Attendance Auditors Classification of Students Continuing Enrollment During Breaks in Course Numbering System Curriculum Changes Dean's List Educational Records Examinations * Good Standing and Satisfactory Progress Grades Grade Changes Graduation with Honors Late Registration Policy Normal Course Load Planning the Academic Program Professional Liability Insurance Registration Registration for Make-up of Incomplete Grades Repeated Course Work Requirements for Graduation Units of Credit * Withdrawal from the University College of Nursing Student Policies 7 of 41 SECTION III ------- STATE AND FEDERAL REGULATIONS GRU complies with provisions of state and federal regulations, including the Georgia Open Records Act, Family Education Rights and Privacy Act, and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. The following links provide reference to these state and federal laws. Georgia Open Records Act Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) SECTION IV ------- CON POLICIES AND PROCEDURES Academic Eligibility & Progression Standards A student may be considered for dismissal if s/he fails to make timely progress toward the degree sought, fails to demonstrate progress through the curriculum, fails to demonstrate a level of competency commensurate with current placement in the program, behaviors that endanger patient safety, patient confidentiality, or behaviors in direct opposition to the clinical instructor’s direction, fails to comply with the rules and policies of the Institution or Healthcare Facility, if s/he poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others or, for any other reason the Institution reasonably believes that it is not in the best interest of the Institution, and/or Affiliated Healthcare Facility's patients or clients for student to continue. See Program Specific Policies. Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program Policies A grade of "C" or better is required in all nursing courses. Grades of “U”, “D”, “F” and “WF” are failing grades and indicate unsatisfactory performance. Students earning grades of “U”, "D", "F" or "WF" in a single nursing course will become an "off track / part time" student and be placed on academic probation until he or she successfully completes the course that was failed. The Program Director will meet with the student to develop a progression plan. The progression plan will include enrolling in and satisfactorily completing a remediation support course, to progress in the program. The course will not be applied as credit toward the BSN degree. The student will not be able to enroll in any courses where the course failed is an identified pre-requisite or co-requisite until successful completion of the pre-requisite / co-requisite course or other courses until the course is repeated and a successful grade earned. Students earning grades of “U”, "D", "F" or "WF" in a single nursing course may repeat the course one time and must successfully earn a grade of “C” or above. Students earning grades “U”, "D", "F" or "WF" the second time the course is taken, will be recommended for academic dismissal. Students may repeat no more than one (1) nursing course during one (1) enrollment at the Georgia Regents University College of Nursing. Should a student fail a second course at any time during enrollment in nursing courses, the student will be recommended for academic dismissal. If two (2) courses are failed (earning a “U”, “D", "F" or "WF") during the same semester, the student will be recommended for academic dismissal. Students in the baccalaureate nursing program must attain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 in all CON work to enter the senior year. College of Nursing Student Policies 8 of 41 In a course which includes both a didactic and clinical component, the student must pass both components in order to pass the course. If a student receives a failing grade (“U”) in the clinical component of the course but passes the didactic component with a grade of “C” or better, then the student will receive an “F” grade for the course. The entire course must be repeated. If the student fails a didactic course but passes the required co-requisite concurrent clinical course or vice versa, the student will be required to complete the concurrent course (with additional clinical hours at the time the course is repeated by enrolling in an independent study. A student may be considered for dismissal if s/he fails to make timely progress toward the degree sought, fails to demonstrate progress through the curriculum and in clinical competency, fails to comply with the rules and policies of the Institution or Healthcare Facility, if s/he poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others or, for any other reason the Institution reasonably believes that it is not in the best interest of the Institution, and/or Affiliated Healthcare Facility's patients or clients for student to continue. Any student dismissed from the College of Nursing may appeal the action in accordance with the CON procedure (Attachment F). Clinical Nurse Leader Program Policies Students in the Clinical Nurse Leader program must meet all academic standards of the Colleges of Graduate Studies and Nursing, to include a requirement to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.8 each semester and overall. Students whose semester or cumulative GPA drops below a 2.8 will be placed on academic probation. Such status is noted on the student’s academic record (transcript). While on probation, students must earn a minimum of 3.0 GPA each semester. Students who fail to earn at least a 3.0 each semester while on probation shall be considered for academic dismissal from the College of Nursing and College of Graduate Studies. The student must re-establish a 2.8 cumulative GPA within two consecutive enrolled semesters. Failure to do so will result in automatic dismissal from the program. A 2.8 GPA must be attained in order to graduate from the program. A student who receives a failing grade in the clinical component of a course fails the course and must repeat it. In the event the student passes the didactic portion of the course with a grade of “C” or higher but does not pass the clinical component of the course then the student will receive an “F” for the course grade and must repeat the entire course. Students earning grades of “U”, "D", "F" or "WF" in a single nursing course may repeat the course one time. The student will become an "off track" student and be placed on academic probation until he or she successfully completes the course that was failed. The Program Director or Program Coordinator and Assistant Dean for Student Affairs will meet with the student to contract for a progression plan. The progression plan will include enrolling in and satisfactorily completing an Independent Study prior to retaking the course failed. This is considered a remediation support course and not applied as credit toward the MSN degree. Students earning grades of “U”, "D", "F" or "WF" the second time the course is taken, will be recommended for academic dismissal. Students may repeat no more than one (1) nursing course during one (1) enrollment at the GRU College of Nursing. If two (2) courses are failed during the same semester, the student will be recommended for academic dismissal. Should a student fail a second course at any time during enrollment in nursing courses, the student will be recommended for academic dismissal. Any student dismissed from the College of Nursing / College of Graduate Studies may appeal the action in accordance with the COGS procedure. http://www.georgiahealth.edu/gradstudies/documents/SGSAcadDismissalPolicy.pdf Nurse Anesthesia Program Policies Students in the Nursing Anesthesia Program must meet all academic standards of the Colleges of Graduate Studies and Nursing, to include a requirement to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 each semester and overall. Students whose semester or cumulative GPA falls below a 3.0 will be placed on academic probation. While on College of Nursing Student Policies 9 of 41 academic probation students must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA each semester. They will have two consecutive enrolled semesters to re-establish a cumulative 3.0 GPA. Any student making less than a 3.0 GPA for more than one semester, consecutive or otherwise, will automatically be dismissed. Additionally, students enrolled in the Nursing Anesthesia Program must earn a minimum grade of B in each of the following courses: NURS 6760 Pharmacology for Nurse Anesthetists I NURS 6770 Pharmacology for Nurse Anesthetists II NURS 6741 Anatomy and Physiology for Nurse Anesthetists NURS 6735 Health Assessment & Diagnostics for Nursing Anesthesia NURS 6751 Pathophysiology for Nurse Anesthetists NURS 6745 Basic Principles of Nurse Anesthesia NURS 6755 Advanced Principles of Nursing Anesthesia I NURS 6765 Advanced Principles of Nursing Anesthesia II NURS 6815 Technology and Techniques in Nursing Anesthesia I NURS 6825 Technology and Techniques in Nursing Anesthesia II NURS 6820 Professional Aspects of Nursing Anesthesia NURS 7990 Independent Study Nursing Anesthesia students earning a “C” in a clinical course will automatically be referred to a faculty review panel. Students will be required to repeat the course and/or participate in faculty-designed remediation. A second “C” in any clinical course will result in automatic dismissal. A student earning a grade of “C” in a clinical course during the final semester of the program will not be allowed to graduate, regardless of overall GPA. The following College of Nursing policies for graduate students are applicable when a grade less than “B” is earned for any course: Master’s degree students who earn more than two “C” grades will be dismissed from the College. Students who earn a “U”, “D” or “F” in any course are automatically dismissed from the College. Any student dismissed from the College of Nursing / College of Graduate Studies may appeal the action in accordance with the COGS procedure. http://www.georgiahealth.edu/gradstudies/documents/SGSAcadDismissalPolicy.pdf Nurse Practitioner Programs / Certificate Policies Students in the Nurse Practitioner Degree Seeking or Certificate Programs must meet all academic standards of the Colleges of Graduate Studies and Nursing, to include a requirement to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 each semester and overall. Students whose semester or cumulative GPA drops below a 3.0 will be placed on academic probation. Such status is noted on the student’s academic record (transcript). While on probation, the student will have two consecutive enrolled semesters to re-establish a cumulative 3.0. Any student making less than a 3.0 GPA for more than one semester, consecutive or otherwise, will automatically be dismissed. A cumulative GPA of at least 2.8 is required for graduation. Students earning a “C” in a clinical course will automatically face a program faculty review panel. Students will be required to repeat the course AND/OR participate in faculty-designed remediation. A second “C” in any clinical course will result in automatic dismissal. Students earning more than two “C” grades will be dismissed from the college. Students who earn a “D” or “F” in any course are automatically dismissed from the college. Any student dismissed from the College of Nursing / College of Graduate Studies may appeal the action in accordance with the COGS procedure. http://www.georgiahealth.edu/gradstudies/documents/SGSAcadDismissalPolicy.pdf College of Nursing Student Policies 10 of 41 Doctor of Nursing Practice Programs / Certificate Policies Students in the Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree Seeking or Certificate Programs must meet all academic standards of the Colleges of Graduate Studies and Nursing, to include a requirement to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 each semester and overall. Students whose semester or cumulative GPA falls below a 3.0 will be placed on academic probation. While on academic probation students must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA each semester. The student will have two consecutive enrolled semesters to re-establish a cumulative 3.0 GPA. Any student making less than a 3.0 GPA for more than one semester, consecutive or otherwise, will automatically be dismissed. Student’s earning a “U” or “C” in any course will be required to repeat the course and/or participate in facultydesigned remediation. Remediation plan may include enrolling in and satisfactorily completing an Independent Study. Failure to remediate the academic probation can result in dismissal from the program. Any student who earns a “C” and/or “U” in more than one course during their enrollment will be considered for dismissal. Students who earn a “D” or “F” in any course are automatically dismissed from the College. When circumstances are warranted, a student being considered for dismissal under this policy may be permitted to continue as a student on probation upon the recommendation of the academic program director and approval of the Dean. Any student dismissed from the College of Nursing / College of Graduate Studies may appeal the action in accordance with the COGS procedure. http://www.georgiahealth.edu/gradstudies/documents/SGSAcadDismissalPolicy.pdf Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Program Policies Students in the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Program must meet all academic standards of the Colleges of Graduate Studies and Nursing, to include a requirement to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 each semester and overall. Students whose semester or cumulative GPA falls below a 3.0 will be placed on academic probation. While on academic probation students must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA each semester. The student will have two consecutive enrolled semesters to re-establish a cumulative 3.0 GPA. Any student making less than a 3.0 GPA for more than one semester, consecutive or otherwise, will automatically be dismissed. Students who earn a “D” or “F” in any course are automatically recommended for dismissal from the College. If a grade of “U” (Unsatisfactory) is earned in dissertation, thesis, supervised research, or investigative project hours, the student will meet with the Doctoral Advisory Committee to develop a plan to satisfactorily repeat the dissertation, thesis, supervised research, or investigative project hours. A letter will be sent from the Doctoral Advisory Committee informing the Associate Dean of Academic Programs, College of Nursing, and the Associate Dean, College of Graduate Studies, of the committee’s recommendations. If the student earns a second grade of “U” for dissertation, thesis, supervised research, or investigative project hours, the Doctoral Advisory Committee may recommend dismissal from the program. Where circumstances warrant, upon recommendation of the academic program concerned and approval of the Dean, a student being considered for dismissal under the provisions of this policy may be permitted to continue as a student on probation. In such cases, the student must earn at least 3.0 each grading period while on probation until a 3.0 cumulative GPA is achieved. Failure to do so will result in automatic dismissal from the degree program. The second dismissal will be final. A student may be considered for dismissal if s/he fails to make timely progress toward the degree sought, or may be subject to re-examination and required additional coursework. Any student dismissed from the College of Nursing / College of Graduate Studies may appeal the action in accordance with the COGS procedure. http://www.georgiahealth.edu/gradstudies/documents/SGSAcadDismissalPolicy.pdf College of Nursing Student Policies 11 of 41 Academic Dismissal The permanent termination of a student’s right to continue enrollment in a degree program because the student has failed to meet published academic and/or professional standards of that program. Re-enrollment requires that the student apply for admission as a new student consistent with established admissions requirements and policies of the degree program. However, dismissed students should not expect to be re-admitted. Academic Suspension Academic suspension differs from academic dismissal in that a time period may be stated after which return to the program may be permitted. A student who has been suspended may be advised of any conditions necessary for reinstatement and may be permitted to re-enroll at the appropriate time after meeting these conditions. Upon return the student may be placed on academic or administrative probation with stipulations (i.e. -- if additional events occur, academic dismissal may occur). Academic Integrity and Judicial Procedure The University recognizes honesty and integrity as being essential to the academic function of the institution and profession. Regulations promulgated in the interest of protecting the equity and validity of the university’s grades and degrees and to help the students develop standards and attitudes appropriate to academic life are contained in the GRU Student Handbook available at http://www.georgiahealth.edu/students/Handbook/ Understanding and adhering to the “Student Conduct Code”, “Conduct of Research” or other Institutional Polices are extremely important for all students. Students are expected to respond to assignments and projects with original data, manuscripts and papers. Any deviation from this could result in a grade of “F” for the assignment and course and possible dismissal from the program. Any possible violation by a student of the “Student Conduct Code” or other polices must be reported to the Program Director and/or Assistant Dean. Advisor Students will be assigned a faculty advisor upon enrollment into the program. Faculty and students meet at least one time per semester. The purpose of faculty advising is to provide GRU CON students with a resource person to assist in understanding academic policies, progression and degree requirements; to help student’s access campus resources that will enhance their ability to be academically successful; to identify systemic and personal conditions that may impede student academic achievement and develop appropriate interventions. Students are encouraged to request an appointment with their advisor at any time they feel a need to do so. Students may also seek academic advice from any member of the faculty. Advising Committee (For PhD Students) Advisory Committee– see http://www.georgiahealth.edu/gradstudies/documents/esdadvisory.pdf Advisory Committee Form -- http://www.georgiahealth.edu/gradstudies/documents/ProgRptAdvCmteMtg.pdf Advisory Committee Meetings -- Every PhD student should form an advisory committee and hold his/her first committee meeting no later than the end of the second year of graduate education at GRU. For students entering in fall semester, the end of the second year is defined as the end of their second spring semester of enrollment. The student’s Major Advisor serves as chair of the advisory committee and presides at this meeting. The results of the committee meeting (i.e., date, members of committee present/absent, a short summary of the research project proposed by the student, and detailed recommendations for formulating the student’s formal research proposal) should be written by the student in conjunction with his/her major advisor. The report should be reviewed by the committee members for their input, revision and approval, and submitted to the graduate program director and the College of Graduate Studies within two weeks of the date of the committee meeting. If College of Nursing Student Policies 12 of 41 a student finishing his/her second year has not formed an advisory committee, that fact should be noted on the report form, a reason provided, and the report signed by the student and his/her advisor or program director. Thereafter, the committee will meet at least once annually to evaluate progress towards completion of the degree requirements. Each of these committee meetings will be summarized using the advisory committee form with i.e., date, members of committee present/absent, progress report submitted by student, and detailed recommendations of committee. The minutes will be submitted to the committee members, program director, and the College of Graduate Studies. The Advisory Committee Meeting Report does not eliminate the current requirement that a student file a Research Progress Report at the end of every semester in which he/she is enrolled in credit hours related to research; rather, the Committee Meeting Report can be used to substitute for the Research Progress Report only in the semester in which the committee meeting occurred. Failure to comply with the requirement of holding and documenting annual meetings will jeopardize continued financial support from the College of Graduate Studies for that program. Assignment Policy All assignments are due on the date and time specified. Since all assignments are published in the syllabus and online assignments are open for a period of time, if an extension has not been requested and approved in advance, the missed assignment will result in a zero if not submitted by the published deadline. Assignment Due Extensions Assignment deadline extensions will be considered if the request is received by student notification directly and/or by email no later than 24 hours prior to the assignment due date. Please note that approval of an extension is not guaranteed. At the discretion of the course coordinator deductions may be taken from the final grade of the assignment as a result of an extension. For the Nurse Anesthesia Program, grades for late submissions may be reduced by 10% per day. Attendance Policy Successful completion of the program requires the student to obtain and demonstrate the requisite skills, knowledge, and behavior of a nursing professional. Attendance and participation in scheduled classes, laboratories, and clinical experiences directly impacts the students’ ability to achieve these goals. Students are expected to prepare for, arrive on time, and attend all scheduled classes, lab, and clinical sessions. A student who misses more than 10% of class time will be subjected to withdrawal. In the event of illness or emergency, the course coordinator, site coordinator, and program office should be notified prior to the scheduled activity. If illness prevents a student from attending clinical, the student should also notify the designated person at his/her clinical facility and the Program Director or Assistant Program Director. Course Directors and Program Directors reserve the right to request documentation related to the absence. For the Nurse Anesthesia Program, failure to attend a scheduled class without prior agreement of course faculty may result in reduction of the final course grade by 2% per missed scheduled class. Blood & Body Fluid Exposure Protocol http://www.georgiahealth.edu/shs/services/bbfproto.html Within 30 Minutes of GRU 1. Cleanse wound with soap and water, or irrigate splash areas (i.e. eyes, mucous membranes) with normal saline or water. 2. Notify attending/nurse supervisor to order lab from source patient. 3. Fill out hospital incident report. Please record source's name and pertinent demographics. (KEEP COPY) 4. Report to Student Health (721-3448), located in Pavilion II, Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. If closed, College of Nursing Student Policies 13 of 41 report to GRU ER (721-4951) within 3 hours of injury. 5. For questions, call Pepline @ 1-888-448-4911. Outside GRU Area 1. Cleanse wound with soap & water, or irrigate splash areas (i.e. eyes, mucous membranes) with normal saline or water. 2. Notify attending/nurse supervisor to order lab from source patient. 3. Fill out hospital incident report. Please record source's name and pertinent demographics. (KEEP COPY). 4. Report to facility Occupational Health or Emergency Department for lab and assessment for HIV prophylaxis (within 3 hours of injury). 5. For questions, call Pepline @ 1-888-448-4911. Follow-up at GRU Student Health or designated clinic as indicated. After Hours Care If you have a blood or body fluid exposure or other emergent condition, report directly to an in-network emergency room. See www.studentinsurance.com for a list of in-network facilities and providers for the Pearce and Pearce student-group plan. There is an additional co-pay for all non-exposure emergency room visits. If you have a medical problem and questions as to whether you need to be seen in an emergency department after hours, you can call 706-721-4588 and ask to speak with the Family Medicine resident on call. If you are covered by the student-group insurance plan (Pearce and Pearce) and it is after clinic hours, you do not need a referral to be seen by an outside provider. You will be responsible for any uncovered expenses (the deductible and 20% co-insurance). Make sure your provider is in-network to maximize the reimbursement from the insurance company. Please note urgent care centers typically charge less than an emergency room. Required Documentation Students should report accidents or injuries which occur in the clinical area to their clinical faculty immediately. The student is expected to adhere to the clinical agency’s policy with regard to: 1. Report incident immediately to charge nurse or nurse manager of setting. 2. Complete the required clinical agency documentation (i.e. occurrence report). 3. Seek appropriate medical follow-up, including baseline testing as per GRU student health policy (see previous page). 4. Provide a written summary of the incident and detailed plan of health care follow-up within three (3) working days of the incident to clinical faculty and program director, to include how this may have been prevented. Campus Closing The closure of the GRU campus requires approval from the President. Any closures will be placed on the GRU Homepage and be announced by the TV stations. Cancelation of any College of Nursing classes or closing of distant campuses require approval of the Dean and will be formally announced by the CON Web Site and via Outlook email. Students are expected to notify their faculty if they are unable to travel to class or clinical. Change in Health Status Students who enter the nursing program are expected to complete all assigned academic and clinical activities. If a student develops a change in health status (including, but not limited to pregnancy and illness) that requires restrictions on his/her academic or clinical activities, and/or limits their ability to perform the Essential Functions of Safe Nursing Practice must notify the Program Director and /or Office of Student Services. The student must provide a written document from his/her health care provider (HCP) addressing the specific restrictions and estimated duration. If the restrictions affect the ability of the student to meet program or course College of Nursing Student Policies 14 of 41 outcomes, the Program Director, in consultation with the appropriate faculty, will determine whether to assign a grade of “incomplete” or to support an administrative withdrawal. If before midterm, the student will be withdrawn if the change in status will require extended make up days. The health care provider responsible for the ongoing care of the student is required to provide written documentation when the restrictions are no longer necessary and the student can return to full participation according to the Essential Functions of Safe Nursing Practice. CLINICAL INFORMATION Minimum Requirements – see the Health Care Agency Requirements section on minimum requirements for all nursing students. Schedule -- Clinical rotations are assigned in a variety of settings and locations, including the local community, rural areas, at a distance (30 miles) and out-of-town sites, under the supervision of academic faculty / instructors or community preceptors. Student rotations include 8 and 12 hour shifts, days, evenings, nights, and week-ends. Students are required to have transportation to attend clinical rotations wherever assigned and are responsible for all expenses (gas, parking, housing, meals). Expectations 1. Clinical, lab and simulation experiences are mandatory in order to meet the course objectives and develop clinical competence. Therefore, the student is expected to attend ALL scheduled clinical activities. 2. Each student is required to make arrangements for transportation to all clinical sites. This may involve traveling extended distances and the student is responsible for all expenses. 3. Students are not allowed in the clinical areas without permission from the assigned clinical faculty. 4. Students must be prepared for the clinical experience. If not prepared, the student will not be allowed to participate in the clinical experience and will receive an unsatisfactory for the experience. Make-up will be at the discretion of the clinical faculty and course coordinator. 5. Students must be well rested and alert in order to provide safe and competent nursing care. If the instructor determines the student is too fatigued to function safely, the student will be asked to leave the clinical area and be counted absent. Make-up will be at the discretion of the clinical faculty and course coordinator. 6. If an emergency arises, the student must personally contact the clinical faculty and clinical agency/unit by phone 24 hours in advance of the expected absence. 7. Written documentation by a physician must be presented at the request of the faculty and/or for absences of three consecutive days. A student may be requested to clear student health prior to returning to clinical. 8. All absences must be made up. The make-up schedule is determined at the discretion of the faculty and designated preceptor when applicable. Time not made up before the end of the semester schedule will result in the student receiving an “incomplete” for the final grade. 9. If a student will be late, he/she should notify the clinical instructor and the clinical agency / unit. Tardiness may result in a needs improvement on the clinical evaluation. More than two is considered a professional deficiency and may result in failure of the clinical rotation, probation or dismissal from the program. 10. Students are not to act as a legal witness for consent forms or any permits. 11. Students are not to take verbal orders for patients. 12. Students are not to leave the clinical area without informing the clinical faculty or preceptor and assuring patient coverage while off the unit. Change in Health Status – refer to section on change in health status for expectations. College of Nursing Student Policies 15 of 41 Medication Administration – Pre-licensure Students Medication administration is an important part of patient care and requires knowledge and technical proficiencies. Medication administration procedures for pre-licensure nursing students (defined as any student who does not hold a registered nurse license as granted by the State Board of Nursing through the Georgia Secretary of State) are outlined below: 1. Clinical competency, defined as the students' ability to perform the specified skill in a manner that is satisfactory to the demands of the clinical situation, must be established prior to any medication administration. 2. Oral medications must be administered with direct supervision of the clinical instructor or delegated preceptor until competency has been documented. Once competency has been established, students may give PO medications independently after double checking the five rights with the clinical instructor or preceptor. 3. Parenteral medications, those given outside the alimentary canal – i.e. intradermal (ID), intramuscular (IM), subcutaneous (SC), or intravenous (IV) routes, must be administered with direct supervision of the clinical instructor or delegated preceptor until competency has been documented. Once competency has been established, students may give ID, IM, and SC medications independently after double checking the five rights with the clinical instructor or preceptor. 4. Administration of IV-push medications by pre-licensure nursing students must be supervised by the clinical instructor or delegated preceptor. These include medications that are given by the IV route in a single injection or concentrated solutions are considered IV bolus or push infusions. 5. Administration of intermittent IV medications by piggyback setup, a volume-control administration set or a mini-infusion pump must be administered with direct supervision of the clinical instructor or delegated preceptor until competency has been documented. Once competency has been established, students may administer intermittent IV medications independently after double checking the five rights with the clinical instructor or preceptor. 6. Changing IV fluid bags must be completed under direct supervision by instructor or designated preceptor until competency has been documented. Once competency has been established, students may change or replace IV fluid bags independently after double checking the five rights with the clinical instructor or preceptor. 7. Students may administer blood and blood products only under the direct supervision of a clinical faculty member or designated preceptor as allowed by specific agency policy. 8. Other medications, including ophthalmic solutions, ear solutions, and suppositories must be done with direct supervision by the clinical instructor or delegated preceptor until competency has been documented. Once competency has been established, the student may perform these administration techniques independently after double checking the five rights with the clinical instructor or preceptor. Exception: The administration of medications with a high propensity for adverse reactions related to administration technique may require direct supervision by clinical faculty or preceptor, even if student has demonstrated competency. If a medication error occurs, please follow the CON policy “Occurrence (Variance) Protocol” noted in the student handbook. Communication with Faculty Outlook and Vista email are the official means used by GRU to communicate with students and faculty. Personal email accounts will not be used. Electronic messages are equivalent to a formal letter. Please use appropriate rules of grammar and punctuation and “Dr”, “Professor” or “Dean” to address the faculty you are emailing. In order to receive important announcements and messages, all students must check Outlook email regularly (minimum of 3 times a week) and be responsive to messages/request. College of Nursing Student Policies 16 of 41 Outlook, D2L, Wimba and other course technology are considered an extension of the classroom, thus the respect of peers and faculty is expected. Inappropriate messaging (use of profanity, messages of sexually suggestive or harassing nature, political, religious messages of any kind, etc.) may result in academic probation, suspension or dismissal. Computer Lab Various computer labs are available for the convenience of the nursing students. Because they present a considerable danger to hardware and software, food and beverages are prohibited in the lab. No equipment, software, documentation, or disks may be taken from the lab without written permission. Materials removed without such permission will be considered stolen. Students may not under any circumstance download software or music and install it on lab computers. No manipulation of hardware or exchange of peripherals is allowed. Students may not save personal files on the hard drive. Confidentiality Confidentiality is a critical aspect of the role of the professional nurse. All students of the Georgia Regents University shall review and comply with the GRU Policy, “Privacy of Health Information” -http://policy.georgiahealth.edu/2010/09/22/privacy-of-health-information-policy/ and abide by the applicable policies and regulations regarding the privacy of health information while engaged in activities at nonGRU facilities. All medical information is confidential under state and federal laws and improper disclosures may subject the student to civil and/or criminal liability. During orientation to the nursing program, students will sign a Confidentiality Statements and Student Applied Learning Experience Agreement (Attachments A, B, and C) agreeing to hold any and all medical information learned during the course of academic and clinical activities in strictest confidence, and in understanding that the violation of confidentiality will result in dismissal from the academic program. Counseling Services Any student wishing to obtain personal counseling may contact: (a) A clinical psychologist (Student Health Center) available to students by appointment or for crisis intervention in the event of an emergency. Services include individual, marital and family therapy. Special areas include the treatment of depression, stress and coping, relationship problems, eating disorders, substance abuse therapy, and divorce adjustment. Services are confidential and records are kept separate from any other medical file the student may have. Appointments are made by calling (706) 721-3448. Student Health is located in AF-1040, Pavilion II. Course Credit Hours The College of Nursing Course Credit Hours is listed in this format (3-2-1-6). first number indicates the number of hours of didactic / seminar second number indicates the number of hours in the lab third number indicates the number of hours in clinical last number indicates the total number of credit hours for the course Course and Clinical Evaluations To assist faculty and students in achieving the goals of the College, students will have the opportunity to evaluate each course, instructor, and clinical faculty within the last three weeks of the semester. Honest and constructive evaluation is very important for future course development and/or curriculum revisions. One45 is used to administer online course evaluations and ensures that the course evaluations are confidential and College of Nursing Student Policies 17 of 41 anonymous. At the end of the semester, aggregate course evaluation results are compiled and maintained by CON. The course instructor, the Department Chair, and Associate Dean for Academic Affairs have access to course evaluation results to review for course improvement and program outcomes measurements. Global results will be presented at the CON Outcomes Committee with recommendations. Criminal Background Check Criminal background checks and investigation will be required for all students that will matriculate into GRU. The background investigation will include a state and federal criminal background check covering all 50 states and a minimum of a 7 year history. In addition, a nationwide sex offender search will be completed. The students are responsible for the cost of the background checks. Failure to disclose criminal convictions on the admission application will be grounds for academic dismissal. When a student is assigned to a clinical agency for rotation, the clinical affiliate will independently review students’ background checks and make the final decision, based on its own criteria, as to whether each student will be allowed to participate in clinical activities at the affiliate clinical site. Decisions as to whether a student is ineligible for placement at a particular clinical site based on results of the check are those of the clinical site alone. The College of Nursing will make reasonable efforts to place admitted students in a clinical experience but any students who cannot be placed because of problems with their criminal background checks will not be able to complete program requirements and/or may be dismissed from the program. Background checks are conducted by PreCheck, Inc, a firm specializing in background checks for health care workers. Instructions --- Go to http://www.precheck.com/ and click on the Student Check link, then click the Student button. Complete all required fields and hit Continue to enter your payment information. The student is responsible for the payment for this check which can be made securely online with a credit or debit card or by money order. An order confirmation number and instructions on how to check the status on the completion of the report will be provided by email. PreCheck will not use the information for any other purposes other than a background check. The student can request a copy of the report at the time of registration for an additional fee. PreCheck has an Adverse Action hotline at 800-203-1654. Adverse Action is the procedure established by the Fair Credit Reporting Act that allows you to see the report and to dispute anything reported. Additional background checks and/or finger printing at the cost of the student may be required based on assigned clinical facility. Curriculum Changes The faculty may change or alter curriculum format or chronology, didactic, or clinical course structure, and departmental policies as needed to improve the educational experiences for the student or to meet the needs of the College. Disability Services for Students GRU, in keeping with the purposes of a health education institution and the guidelines set forth by the federal government, will make reasonable efforts to accommodate students with disabilities as defined in Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990. All accepted students must, with reasonable accommodation, be able to meet the essential standards for safe nursing practice and academic standards of the program to which they are admitted. GRU also adheres to a policy of equal educational opportunities for all students with learning disorders. If you have a documented learning disability and or question whether you may need special services, you should: 1. Notify the Campus Life Services office by submitting an online form located at this website: College of Nursing Student Policies 18 of 41 http://georgiahealth.edu/students/campuslife/disability/ 2. Promptly file with the Campus Life Services office your documentation including a Physician’s Health Statement noting a diagnosis. Documentation must be consistent with Board of Regents requirements. This voluntary self-identification allows GRU to review appropriate support services and has no effect on your pending enrollment in the college. Upon receipt of your information, the Campus Life Services office will contact you for further conversation regarding accommodations and support services. Dress Code and Personal Hygiene Personal appearance is a matter of common sense and an awareness of the importance of personal grooming and proper attire. We expect that your appearance will reflect the pride you have in yourself, the college, and your chosen profession. Class - business casual attire (no t-shirts, shorts, sweat pants, flip-flops, etc). Lab / Sim – program specific scrubs unless otherwise instructed. Clinical Pre-Planning Attire -- appropriate business attire (i.e. dress or dress pants), with white lab coat and GRU ID badge. Examples of inappropriate attire include, but not limited to, jeans, shorts, athletic attire, T-shirts, tank tops, midriff tops, and “evening wear.” Footwear such as flip-flops, hiking boots or tennis shoes are also inappropriate. Clinical Attire – this includes all activities in the Simulation Center, Learning Resource Center, and any clinical agency assigned such as hospital, nursing home, etc. unless otherwise directed by the clinical faculty and/or healthcare facility. Scrubs – program specific Tops -- long enough so if arms are raised above head, midriff is still fully covered and /or if bending over, no body/flesh will be exposed. Lab Coat – white, with 3 to 4 buttons, full length sleeves, with a GRU patch on the left sleeve. Shoes -- Solid leather shoes with enclosed heels and toes, solid color (black, brown, navy, white), no designs. Undergarments -- appropriate color and type undergarments. Jewelry –minimal, one set of small stud ear-rings in the ear lobe, wedding band, and a watch. Body Adornment – no visible body piercing and jewelry may be worn (e.g. nose, tongue, eyebrow rings, etc). Tattoos -- must be covered and not visible through clothing. Scents -- students should not wear scents, colognes, aftershave, or perfumes. Free of odors. Gum -- no chewing gum. Smoking – no smoking while in the GRU uniform, at clinical, or during pre-planning. Hair – clean, neatly styled, effectively restrained away from face and shoulders. Facial Hair -- beard/ mustache must be limited and neatly groomed. Fingernails -- short (not visible when looking at palm of hand), clean, well rounded. No nail polish or artificial nails. Clinical Site Rules and Regulations -- comply with all, including dress codes established by the site. Students who fail to meet the above requirements will not be permitted to participate in clinical activities which may result in an unsatisfactory for the clinical experience. GRU student ID badges must be worn at all times while the student is on campus and during all practicum College of Nursing Student Policies 19 of 41 sessions. Public Safety is authorized to remove from campus any student who is not wearing the GRU Student ID Badge. Drug Screens The faculty and academic administrators at GRU are strongly committed to following the professional standards and polices of healthcare related facilities in order to best serve and protect patients, staff, students, and faculty. In addition to the criminal background checks, drug screening is required for all students upon enrollment and/or prior to starting any healthcare agency rotations (direct or indirect care, research, or project focused), at student’s expense. In addition, students may be subject to random drug screens if presence of impairment and /or condition of disciplinary action. It is recommended that Pre-Check be used or one of the listed approved labs, and must be completed no later than 10 days prior to rotations. Drug screening is to include a 10 panel (marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, methadone, propoxyphene, phencyclidine, and methaqualone). A Medical Review Officer (MRO) from Pre-Check will review all positive drug screen panels and notify GRU Student Health Center and CON Assistant Dean of Student Services of any failed drug test. The Assistant Dean will contact the student, suspend clinical rotations, and report the failed drug screen to the Director of Campus Life Services. Counseling and/or advisement will occur by the Assistant Dean and Campus Life Director and an administrative plan of action will be instituted which may include administrative probation and review by the campus judicial committee for actions/sanctions. Emergency Loan Program The GRU Financial Aid Office has an emergency loan program that will lend up to $500.00 to cover emergency situations. There are specific requirements which must be met in order to qualify for such a loan. Contact the GRU Financial Aid office for details. NAP Students -- AANA Emergency Loan Program The AANA has an emergency loan program for students who have completed a minimum of 12 months in a nurse anesthesia program that will lend up to $5,000 to cover emergency situations. There are specific requirements which must be met in order to qualify for such a loan and repayment must begin within six months following graduation. Information about the loan program is available from the Nursing Anesthesia Program Director or Manager. Essential Functions for Safe Nursing Practice To qualify for admission to, retention in and graduation from academic nursing programs in the Colleges of Nursing and Graduate Studies, an individual must satisfy certain essential functions. All applicants and enrolled students must have the use of certain sensory and motor functions to permit them to carry out the activities described in the sections that follow. They must be able to consistently, quickly and accurately integrate all information received by whatever sense(s) employed, and they must have the intellectual ability to learn, integrate, analyze and synthesize data. A candidate for a degree through the Colleges of Nursing and Graduate Studies must have abilities and skills of five varieties including: observation; communication; motor; conceptual, integrative and quantitative; and behavioral and social. Reasonable accommodations may be possible in the class setting only. Students must be able to perform all standards in an independent manner in the clinical area or academic dismissal may occur. Examples provided below do not comprise an exhaustive list. College of Nursing Student Policies 20 of 41 Essential Functions for Safe Nursing Practice MOTOR OBSERVATION Sensory Visual Auditory Tactile COMMUNICATION BEHAVIORIAL / SOCIAL ATTRIBUTES INTELLECTUALCONCEPTUAL, INTEGRATIVE, AND QUANTITATIVE ABILITIES A candidate must have adequate motor function to effectively work with nursing problems and issues and carry out related nursing care. Possesses four (4) functional limbs (normal or artificial) that allow the student to perform abilities sufficient to move from room to room and maneuver in small places and possesses gross and fine motor abilities sufficient to provide safe and effective nursing care. Possesses the ability to exert 20 - 50 lbs of force occasionally; 10-25 lbs of force frequently; and negligible to 10 lbs of force constantly to move objects. Examples of nursing care include but are not limited to: ambulating & positioning patients; cardiopulmonary resuscitation; administration of intravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneous and oral medications; the application of pressure to stop bleeding; the opening of an obstructed airway; & the provision of patient/client daily hygiene care. Possesses the ability to assess and/or evaluate patient responses and to perform nursing interventions safely and accurately. Has normal or corrected vision within the range of 20/20 - 20/80, be able to distinguish color shades. Examples include but not limited to: recognize changes in skin color or color of drainage; distinguish gradations on syringes when drawing up medications, observe patient responses, visualizes the appearance of surgical or traumatic wounds. Has normal or corrected hearing ability within the 0-45 decibel range. Examples include but not limited to: hearing alarms, emergency signals, cries for help, auscultatory sounds. Possess at least one hand with the ability to perceive temperature changes and pulsations and to differentiate different structures and textures. Possesses communication abilities sufficient for appropriate and effective interaction with others in both oral and written form. Possesses interpersonal abilities sufficient to interact appropriately and effectively with individuals, families, and group from a variety of backgrounds. Examples include but not limited to: explain treatment procedures and/or initiates health teachings, documents nursing actions and patient responses establishes appropriate and professional rapport with patients and colleagues. Possess the emotional stability and ethical fortitude needed to manage the demands associated with the pursuit of professional activities, including the full use of intellectual ability and good judgment to independently, accurately and effectively complete all responsibilities and meet all deadlines. Ability to develop mature, sensitive, non-judgmental, non-prejudiced and effective relationships with faculty, peers, patients, and other professionals in the academic community. Ability to tolerate physically taxing workloads, work within a team and to learn to function effectively in the face of uncertainties. Maintain appropriate personal hygiene and appearance. Honesty, compassion, integrity and concern for others are all personal qualities that are essential. Have the intellectual capacity to meet curricular requirements in a timely fashion. These abilities include measurement, calculation, reasoning, integration, analysis and synthesis of data and information. Problem solving requires all of these intellectual abilities to solve experimental or research-related problems effectively and able to comprehend three-dimensional relationships and understand the spatial relationships of structures. College of Nursing Student Policies 21 of 41 The University will, if requested, provide reasonable accommodations to otherwise qualified enrolled students and applicants with disabilities unless: (a) such accommodations impose an undue hardship to the institution, or (b) direct threats of substantial harm to the health and safety of others due to the disability cannot be eliminated by any reasonable accommodations available that would allow the student to perform the essential functions, or (c) such accommodations fundamentally alter the educational program or academic standards. A student whose behavior or performance raises questions concerning his or her ability to fulfill these essential functions may be required to obtain evaluation and/or testing by a health care provider designated by the college, and to provide the results to Student Health Services for the purpose of determining whether the student is fit to pursue the educational program. If the student is deemed fit to pursue the program, the college reserves the right to require actions recommended by the health care provider, including further testing, counseling, monitoring, leave of absence, etc. These essential functions are minimum requirements for participation in all programs. Ethics Policy GRU is committed to the highest standards of ethics and integrity. Ethical conduct and compliance is a personal responsibility, and every student will be held accountable for his or her conduct. Each student will uphold the GRU Code of Ethics as described in the Administrative Policy, and all related laws, regulations and policies. IMPORTANT! Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action, including possible academic dismissal. www.georgiahealth.edu/itss/edtoolbox/USGethics/ Evaluation of Course Assignments Quality of Written and Oral Presentations/ Projects/Tests The nursing professional must be competent in written and oral communication, and must be skilled in presenting information in an organized and visibly attractive format. In addition to being evaluated on the accuracy of its content, presentations, projects, and tests will be graded on grammar, neatness/legibility, spelling, composition and pronunciation (oral assignments), and it must be cited appropriately according to APA. Regardless of the accuracy of the content, the faculty may consider failure to meet the above conditions sufficiently important to warrant a failing grade on the assignment. Evaluation of Oral and Written Presentations Oral and written presentations are evaluated based on the guidelines distributed by each course instructor. APA format is to be used in the development of written papers. Faculty members reserve the right to require a specific format for written papers and also to have a paper with gross grammatical and spelling errors corrected before evaluating it for content. Resources are located on the CON Intranet Site. Evaluation of Student Clinical Performance A written evaluation is given by the clinical instructor and/or preceptor at the end of each clinical or laboratory rotation. In most cases, the student may receive a midterm as well. This evaluation is signed by the student and the instructor. The student’s signature acknowledges the student has read the evaluation but does not necessarily imply agreement with the evaluation. If the student does not agree, then the student may make written comments in response to the areas of disagreement which will be attached to the evaluation. Clinical specific performance criteria are included with each course syllabus and clinical evaluation. Examination Guidelines Examinations are utilized throughout the nursing curriculum to facilitate formative and summative evaluation of student learning and to foster preparedness for licensure examination following graduation. College of Nursing Student Policies 22 of 41 Guidelines include but are not limited to: Designated seating; GRU photograph identification badge to obtain an examination; All notes, papers, cell phone, and other electronic devices secured away from test area as well as bags, coats, hats, etc.. Faculty may designate area; No hats will be worn during testing unless turned around to allow eyes to be seen; Students are discouraged from leaving the room during the exam and in the event of an emergency will be accompanied by a proctor; Students are responsible for checking their answers sheets for accuracy prior to submitting; upon completion of the exam, the student will exit the room quietly and maintain quiet in the hallway. Students will be asked to sign a pledge that states: “I will complete this test without violating the student conduct code as it applies to cheating, and plagiarism, and that the work submitted will be entirely my own. I further pledge, in the interest of class integrity, honesty and professionalism that I will bring to the attention of faculty, those whom I observe or suspect of violating the student conduct code.” Violations of the student conduct code will result in administration of judicial procedures as noted in the GRU Student Handbook – http://www.georgiahealth.edu/students/Handbook/ and possible penalties up to expulsion. Students are required to have a lap top upon matriculation to the nursing program. The laptop will be used for a variety of uses including online testing. Laptops must meet the minimum GRU requirements including specific software for computer testing. Academic honesty and the honor code applies to all examinations whether online or face to face. In the event of a verified illness or a death in the immediate family, the coordinator of the assigned course must be notified by direct phone contact prior to the examination for permission to postpone the examination. Emails and voice mail are not acceptable communication. Faculty contact numbers will be provided in the course syllabus. Documentation such as a doctor’s excuse, obituary, etc. may be required at the discretion of the coordinator of the course. Make-up and the type of examination will be at the discretion of the coordinator of the course upon receipt of documentation. In the event a student is up to 15 minutes late for the exam, they will only have the remaining designated time period to complete the exam. If greater than 15 minutes late for an assigned examination, the student will not be allowed to take the examination. A make-up examination will be at the discretion of the coordinator of the course. Examination Review Faculty believe that reviewing examinations provides students with opportunities to: reinforce learning, identify content areas in need of further study, and seek clarification on items missed, and to improve study and test taking skills. The exam review process include but are not limited to: an exam review period will be designated by the Course Coordinator; exams are reviewed only in the classroom or a faculty member’s office, unless faculty has made different arrangements; talking and note taking are not permitted while reviewing exams; students must place all personal items such as cell phones, writing utensils, book bags, etc. in a designated area away from the review area; exams and answer sheets are returned to the faculty immediately following the review and cannot be taken from the room. Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) FERPA permits college officials to disclose any and all education records, including disciplinary records, to another institution at which the student seeks or intends to enroll. In addition, immunization records, PPD results, licensure and certification data, background checks, and other data will be released to the clinical College of Nursing Student Policies 23 of 41 agencies if requested to facilitate clinical rotations. Otherwise, access to student records is limited to faculty advisors, faculty, and student. Graduation Information Application Each candidate must complete a graduation application form and return to the College of Nursing Office of Student and Academic Affairs. It must be completed at least 1-1/2 semesters prior to the time of graduation. (Seniors planning to graduate in May should make application in December). Problems that may prevent you from graduating: If you have any Parking fines, Library fines or Student Health charges that are not paid prior to graduation, this will prevent you from receiving your diploma on graduation day. A HOLD will be placed on your Pulse account. If you are a Financial Aid recipient, you must complete your exit interview with Financial Aid or a HOLD will be placed on your graduation. Absentia The candidate for a degree from the university must attend the commencement exercise at which the degree is to be conferred, unless he/she is officially excused in writing by the Assistant Dean. Honors – Applicable for BSN Students Only Students must have two academic years, 60 semester hours in residence at Georgia Regents University to be considered for graduation honors. Only those courses taken in residence will be used to compute the cumulative grade point average for honors. The standards are as follows: Highest Honors 3.90 High Honors 3.70 Honors 3.50 Grade point averages will be rounded to the nearest hundredth to determine eligibility for honors. This distinction of high academic achievement is placed on the student’s diploma and is noted on his/her permanent record. http://catalog.georgiahealth.edu/content.php?catoid=10&navoid=1062#GRAD_W_HON Graduation Activities All graduating students are required to participate in the graduation recognition ceremonies conducted in May and December of each year. Further details will be provided to each class in the final semester of the program. Students are invited to participate in GRU graduation exercises at the end of spring semester following degree completion. The following events occur annually: College of Graduate Studies Hooding Ceremony During this ceremony, the graduate receives a colorful distinctive “hood” which is worn with academic regalia. The hood is presented to the student by the program director or a faculty in recognition of scholarly accomplishment. This ceremony traditionally has been the morning of graduation. Graduates will receive information about the Hooding Ceremony directly from the College of Graduate Studies in the months preceding graduation. Attire: academic regalia. College of Nursing Honors Convocation This ceremony is conducted by the College of Nursing. The purpose is to recognize graduates of nursing programs (undergraduate and graduate) and present awards to outstanding students and faculty. The Nurse Anesthesia Program Director’s Award is given at this ceremony. Graduates will receive information about the College of Nursing Student Policies 24 of 41 Honors Convocation directly from the CON in the months preceding graduation. Attire: academic regalia. Georgia Regents University Graduation This ceremony recognizes the accomplishments of all university graduates. This ceremony is held in May. . Invitations Purchase from the campus bookstore. There are also other items such as graduation frames. Regalia Ordered and rented via the campus bookstore. Grading Policy Courses offered for a program which is offered on multiple campuses have the same purpose, learning objectives, and topical outline. There is a consistent grading policy in all required programs. Undergraduate: 90-100 80-89 75-79 65-74 Below 65 A B C D F Graduate: 90-100 80-89 70-79 65-70 Below 65 A B C D F All Programs During each semester, all grades will be recorded to two (2) decimal places. At the end of the semester, the final grade will be calculated to two decimal places and rounded mathematically as follows: Less than 0.50 – Round down to next whole number -- “89.49” would be rounded to “89” 0.50 or greater – Round up to next whole number -- “90.95” would be rounded to “91” GRU CON uses pass/fail grading for clinical grading using a clinical evaluation tool. A passing grade must be achieved in both didactic and clinical portions of the course in order to achieve a passing grade for the course. An unsatisfactory rating at the summative clinical evaluation will result in a failure of the course, regardless of the didactic grade. Clinical failure is defined as consistent clinical behaviors that fail to demonstrate a level of competency commensurate with current placement in the program. Behaviors that endanger patient safety, patient confidentiality, or behaviors in direct opposition to the clinical instructor’s direction may result in immediate dismissal from the program. The student may not be eligible for readmission. Ratings: Level 5 = student always or nearly always performs behaviors with minimal supporting cues Level 4 = student usually performs behaviors with minimal supporting cues Level 3 = student fluctuates in performance of behaviors, requires occasional supporting cues Level 2 = student rarely performs behaviors, requires frequent supporting cues Level 1 = student consistently does not perform behaviors, requires continuous supporting cues N/A = not applicable PASS: rating of Level 3 or above in each behavior of each category College of Nursing Student Policies NO PASS: 25 of 41 rating of Level 2 or below in any behavior of each category Details on the course evaluation and grading are provided in each course syllabus. An on-line grade report may be obtained via PULSE https://pulse.georgiahealth.edu/BPRD8/twbkwbis.P_WWWLogin Grade Appeal Each faculty member in the CON has the academic freedom and responsibility to determine grades according to any method chosen by the faculty member that is professionally acceptable, communicated to everyone in the class, and applied to all students equally. During the Semester: If a student has a concern with the earned grade on a test, or any activity within the course, the student must bring the concern forward to the Course Coordinator to discuss within two weeks of the grade being posted in D2.L. Disagreement with individual grades in a course on examinations, papers, projects and the like are not grounds for a grade appeal. However, if a resolution is not obtained, the student can place the concerns in writing and submit to the Assistant Dean of Student Services for review within three weeks of the grade being posted. Students cannot grieve or argue a grade given during the semester at the end of the semester. The student must meet the above time frame for resolution. End of Semester Final Course Grade: A student who contests a final course grade shall first attempt to resolve the matter with the Course Coordinator and Program Director. Failing to reach a satisfactory resolution, the student may appeal the course grade in accordance with the procedures outlined below. These procedures are not to be used in cases involving student academic dishonesty. Capricious or arbitrary academic evaluations or discrimination on the basis of gender, age, race, religion, disability or sexual orientation is a violation of a student’s rights and will be a valid ground for a grade appeal with documentation of evidence. An appeal must be made no later than the first day of the next succeeding regular semester. Appeals after that date will not be considered valid. 1. The student shall present the appeal in writing to the Assistant Dean of Student Services. The written statement shall limit itself to citations of evidence pertinent to the valid ground for the appeal of arbitrary and capricious or discriminatory. By conferring with the student and the instructor, the Assistant Dean will seek resolution of the matter. 2. Failing such resolution the Assistant Dean shall transmit the written appeal to the Dean of the College of Nursing who will convene a Grade Appeals Committee appointed by the Dean for the specific purpose of developing resolution to this specific grade appeal. 3. The Grade Appeals Committee shall consist of five faculty members appointed by the Dean. One of the faculty members may be from another College at GRU. 4. If the Committee affirms the instructor’s decision, the Dean will notify in writing the faculty member, the student, and the Program Director. The Committee may also recommend a grade change in which the grade is either raised or lowered. If the committee supports the student’s appeal, it shall prescribe the method by which the student will be re-evaluated. This re-evaluation method is sent by the Dean to the instructor awarding the grade, the student and the Department Chair. It will be the responsibility of the faculty member to proceed with the re-evaluation. The grade resulting from the prescribed re-evaluation is final and may not be further appealed. Health Care Agency Requirements All students in the nursing programs must meet health care agency requirements. In order to be in any clinical agency for program requirements, including but not limited to projects, research, or patient care, students must meet the following requirements: Meet all the GRU Student Health requirements College of Nursing Student Policies 26 of 41 Completion of the required forms upon admission to the program –See Pre-Matriculation Requirements -- http://www.georgiahealth.edu/shs/prereg.html Completion of all immunization requirements -- http://www.georgiahealth.edu/shs/immuniz.html Annual PPD BCLS / CPR by the American Heart Association -- Basic Life Support Provider Course. Nurse Anesthesia students must also obtain ACLS and PALS prior to the second year clinical rotations. If any certifications lapse while in clinical rotations, you will be pulled immediately until you are re-certified. All missed clinical days must be made up and may result in an incomplete for the course which may impact progression for the next semester. Professional liability insurance (low rate group policy is required through GRU). Nurse Anesthesia students are required to purchase additional insurance their 2nd year. Insurance coverage as specified by the University of System of Georgia – see Student Health Insurance page and Insurance Policy Coverage -- http://www.georgiahealth.edu/shs/generalinformation.html Required HIPAA training and testing Signed Confidentiality Forms (Attachment A and B) Signed Authorization for Release of Records and Information Form (Attachment C) Signed Student Applied Learning Experience Agreement (Attachment D) Completion of the criminal background check and drug screening and any additional agency requirements prior to first clinical day. Maybe required annually. Notification of the Program Director of any latex sensitivity. Review Universal Blood and Body Fluid Precautions. OSHA Fit Testing as required by clinical placement. Students who do not comply with the specified requirements will not be allowed to do clinical and subsequently cannot fulfill the course outcomes in which the clinical experience is incorporated. Signature of the Handbook form indicates review and agreement with Attachments A, B, C, D. Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) mandates regulations that govern privacy, security, and electronic transactions standards for health care information including research related information. HIPAA requires: 1) Standardization of electronic patient health, administrative and financial data; 2) Unique identifiers for individuals, employees, health plans and health care providers; 3) Security standards protecting the confidentiality and integrity of health information. These regulations require that all students be trained regarding the laws which govern the privacy of health information. Required training and testing is mandatory for all students during the first month of enrollment in the nursing program and annually. Students not in compliance by the designated date set by the Office of Academic and Student Affairs in the College of Nursing will be removed from clinical settings and grades and registration will be held until training and testing are completed. Honor Code --– http://www.georgiahealth.edu/students/Handbook/ Students are responsible for adhering to the GRU Student Code of Conduct. The university recognizes honesty and integrity as being necessary to its academic function. The regulations protect the equity and validity of the university's grades and degrees, and help students develop standards and attitudes appropriate to academic life. 1. No student will receive assistance not authorized by the instructor in preparing any assignment, essay, laboratory report or examination to be submitted as a requirement for an academic course. 2. No student will knowingly give unauthorized assistance to another person in the preparation of any assignment, essay, laboratory report or examination to be submitted as a requirement for an academic course. College of Nursing Student Policies 27 of 41 3. No person will sell, give, lend or otherwise furnish to any unauthorized person material that can be shown to contain the questions or answers to any examination scheduled to be given at any subsequent date, in any course of study offered by the university excluding questions and answers from tests previously administered and authorized for release by the administering faculty member. 4. Plagiarism is prohibited. Themes, essays, term papers, tests and other similar requirements must be the work of the student submitting it. When direct quotations are used, they must be indicated, and when the ideas of another are incorporated in the paper, they must be appropriately acknowledged. 5. Fraudulent research activity is prohibited. Misrepresentation of data collection and analysis, including falsification, fabrication or omission of data is prohibited. 6. Any person taking, or attempting to take, steal or otherwise procure in any unauthorized manner any material or information pertaining to the conduct of a class including tests, examinations, laboratory equipment, roll books, etc., violates this regulation. Students will be asked to sign a pledge that states: “I will complete this test without violating the student conduct code as it applies to cheating, and plagiarism, and that the work submitted will be entirely my own. I further pledge, in the interest of class integrity, honesty and professionalism that I will bring to the attention of faculty, those whom I observe or suspect of violating the student conduct code.” Violations of the student conduct code will result in administration of judicial procedures as noted in the GRU Student Handbook – 2011-2012 GHSU Student Handbook and possible penalties up to expulsion. Independent Study Independent Study is designed for remediation and/or for program specific objectives (i.e. DNP and PhD Programs). The Independent Study is equivalent in academic rigor to a required course with the exception of being flexible in learning objectives and teaching learning strategies. It is important that the amount of work be equivalent to the amount of credit being requested. If the course involves a form of clinical learning, the ratio of clinical hours to credit hours is 3:1; three clinical hours/week = 1 credit hour. Procedure for Enrolling in Independent Study The student desiring to register for this nursing elective must have prior written consent from the program director and faculty member who agrees to guide the student in this process. The student in collaboration will develop a proposal which must include the following: · Objectives of the independent study. · Learning Activities necessary to meet the objectives. · Responsibilities of the Student in meeting objectives. · Responsibilities of Faculty in guiding the student. · Credit to be earned. · Measurable evaluation methods and grading scale. ** The syllabus is to be submitted to the Office of Student Services no later than the end of the first week of school. Inclement Weather Guidelines In the event of inclement weather, please use the following guidelines: closure of the GRU campus requires approval from the President; in the event a university/college campus at a GRU distance site closes due to inclement weather, cancellation of GRU classes requires notification of and approval from the Dean’s Office (706) 721-3771. To obtain information on the closing of the GRU main campus or university/college campuses that house an GRU distance site the following resources should be used: local radio and TV for closing; GRU home page; CON Intranet Web Site. College of Nursing Student Policies 28 of 41 Students living outside the area of the main campus or a distance site campus should use their own judgment on travel and contact a course faculty member regarding their inability to travel. Notification of the inability of travel should be done as early as possible and before classroom or clinical experiences are to begin. Laptop Policy -- http://www.georgiahealth.edu/nursing/laptop_requirement.pdf The delivery of nursing education, as well as continuing education and lifelong learning, requires that students embrace and effectively use computer technology. All CON students are required to purchase a laptop that meets a list of required minimum specifications. All laptops must be reviewed/secured through GRU ITSS help desk or affiliate campus ITSS help desk upon matriculation into the program. NOTE, all CON students who use laptops on campus for testing are required to have an ITSS secured system in place prior to test date. The CON faculty will utilize the laptops to deliver education, encourage collaboration, provide assessments and a host of other purposes including but not limited to: Testing, Simulation, Small Group Problem Based Learning, Communications and Collaborations with remote faculty & students throughout the state, Online Course Delivery via GRU’s Learning Management System, One45 Course Evaluations, Audience Response Systems and/or iClickers. ** Students are responsible for ensuring their lap tops are fully charged prior to class. Plug ins cannot create a safety hazard for others in the class. Leave of Absence and Unanticipated Time Off In the event of an emergent situation, such as a death in the immediate family (husband, wife, children and their spouses, step-children and their spouses, mother, father, mother or father-in-law, brothers or sisters and their spouses, grandparents, grandchildren, foster children, aunts and uncles of the student; or other relatives residing in the student's immediate household), an emergency absence from classroom or other activities may be granted at the discretion of the Program Director up to a three-day leave. The student remains responsible for all course-related assignments. Medical or other reasons may necessitate more prolonged absences from the program. In these circumstances, the student is encouraged to meet in advance with the Program Director and/or Assistant Dean for Student Affairs to identify options available within the university system. A leave of absence will only be approved for a limited time period. Depending on the nature of the program, the student may be required to withdraw and return at the next available rotation. Students are required to demonstrate previously mastered material and competency in previously learned skills upon return. This may be accomplished by proficiency testing, completion of an independent study and /or examination in the skills lab / simulation center. Any student granted a leave of absence must withdraw from the GRU in accordance with the institutional Student Withdrawal Policy available at http://www.georgiahealth.edu/aaffairs/policies/pdfs/p416.pdf Mathematical Competency—Pre-licensure Programs Mathematics calculation for medication and intravenous fluid administration is an expected competency for students in the Pre-licensure Programs at the College of Nursing, Georgia Regents University. The competency will be determined during the first semester of nursing and evaluated every semester until graduation. Students will have three attempts at passing a mathematics competency exam with an 90%. After the third attempt, if a student has not passed this competency, the student will not be permitted to progress in the program. The student will receive a failing grade (“F”) and be reviewed according to the Academic Eligibility and Progression Policy. Occurrence (Variance) Protocol – see Blood & Body Fluid Exposure Protocol Purpose: In the event that an occurrence (variance) occurs in the clinical setting, this protocol will guide the faculty/student response. College of Nursing Student Policies 29 of 41 1. When an occurrence is discovered, faculty will immediately notify the patient's primary nurse and the nurse manager. Faculty will implement appropriate assessment and documentation of the patient's physical and/or emotional status. If the student is with an assigned preceptor, the student will immediately contact the assigned clinical faculty to report the incident. 2. Agency protocol for occurrence reporting will be implemented. This may include, but is not limited to: physician notification; documentation of the event, including signature and title; and consultation/discussion with Risk Management. 3. Within 24 hours, faculty will notify the Course Coordinator, the Program Director, and the Assistant Dean of Student Affairs. 4. The student will summarize the occurrence in writing and submit to the Program Director and Assistant Dean for Student Affairs. 5. The faculty will summarize the occurrence in writing, and submit to the Program Direct and Assistant Dean of Student Affairs. 6. Within 24 hours, Assistant Dean of Student Affairs will notify the GRU Legal Office. 7. Within 24 hours and as needed, faculty will follow up with the nurse manager and the student. 8. Faculty will document the occurrence on the student's clinical evaluation tool, and will develop a teaching/learning activity to reflect and reinforce student instruction. The teaching/learning activity will be attached to the clinical evaluation tool, and will include the student's response to the activity. 9. The Assistant Dean of Student Affairs will maintain a record of all occurrences. Out of Sequence / Off Track A student is out of sequence or off track when an interruption in the progression in the nursing program as noted in the curriculum plan occurs. Examples include but are not limited to: Withdrawal from a course or a required pre-requisite course. Unsuccessful completion of a course. Student fails to take the next offered nursing course in the curriculum sequence due to withdrawal, incomplete, failure. Approved Leave of Absence Progression of off track students is contingent upon factors such as space availability, remediation efforts made by the student and the time frame for program completion. Students are required to demonstrate previously mastered material and competency in previously learned skills. This may be accomplished by proficiency testing, completion of an independent study and /or examination in the skills lab / simulation center. Professional Behaviors Professional behaviors within nursing practice are characterized by: commitment to the profession of nursing, instilling the interrelated concepts of autonomy, accountability, and advocacy. The student in the baccalaureate nursing program will adhere to standards of professional practice, will be highly accountable for his/her own actions and behaviors, and function within legal, ethical, and regulatory frameworks. Professional behaviors also include: concern for others, caring, commitment to the on-going practice of self-evaluation, and development. Professional students behaviors include but are not limited to: maintaining an environment that is conducive to learning; attending all classes; being punctual; actively engaging in learning; notifying the instructor in advance in the event a class will be missed or if there is a need to leave class early; showing respect and concern for others when they are talking or lecturing; placing all electronic devices including cell phones, pagers, and beepers on silence or buzz; avoiding audible and visible signs of restlessness; and focusing on class material during class time and patient care activities in the clinical setting. Texting and being on the cell phone while in a patient care setting is not allowed and may result in failure of the clinical rotation. College of Nursing Student Policies 30 of 41 Disruptive behaviors in the classroom may be classified as anything that disturbs the instructor or other students during the class period. If a student is disruptive, he/she will be asked to stop the behavior and leave the class in the event the behavior continues. If the disruptive behavior is repetitive in future classes, the faculty member will meet with the student, discuss the behaviors and expectations for improvement, and provide a written warning which will be placed in the students file in the Office of Student Affairs. Continued incidents will be referred to the Office of Student Affairs for disciplinary action in accordance with the Standards of Conduct. If, in the instructor's best judgment, the behavior creates a safety risk or makes it impossible to continue class or function, the instructor will contact Public Safety to assist in removal of the student and/or may dismiss class for that day. NAP Program: As a member of the Nursing Anesthesia Program you are under constant scrutiny. Anesthetists tend to think of themselves as set apart from others in the nursing profession and for this reason when an anesthetist makes an error it tends to attract attention. Within the academic environment, academic dishonesty is the most common source of problems. Any hint of academic dishonesty will be investigated completely and dealt with at the University level. There is little that the faculty can do to influence events in such situations. Criminal behavior (alcohol or drug related events, fraud, assault, etc) will quickly result in action by the Georgia Board of Nursing that could endanger your nursing license and may result in academic dismissal. Without a nursing license you will not be able to sit for the Certification exam and/or progress in the NAP program. Additionally, the Council on Certification of Nurse Anesthetist has strict guidelines regarding fitness for certification. Think before you act or all your efforts could go to waste. Professional Concerns A student who exhibits behaviors that generate concern regarding character or personal behavior unbecoming a professional will be brought to the attention of the Program Director and Assistant Dean of Student Services. A student may be placed in the category of “professional concern” by the Assistant Dean for any breach of professionalism and is felt to constitute a substantial breach of professional behavior. Students placed in the category of “professional concern” will: 1. Be informed of their status. 2. The student may be required to be evaluated by student health and /or health care provider on meeting the technical standards, complete an assigned project, resign from any leadership / officer positions, may not be eligible for induction in a national honor society such as Sigma Theta Tau and/or be recommended for academic suspension or dismissal. 3. Remain in this category until the Program Director and Assistant Dean feels it is appropriate to remove the designation, which will be based on evidence of continued improvement. 4. Be referred to the Academic Standards Committee for consideration of sanctions / dismissal. The appointed hearing body will determine if there is sufficient cause to recommend dismissal on the basis of the evidence presented at the meeting. A written recommendation and the voting results shall be sent to the Dean of the CON. If the hearing body recommends dismissal to the Dean, within five working days the Dean will either accept or reject the recommendation or refer the decision with comments to the hearing body for reconsideration. Then the Dean will notify the student and Assistant Dean of Student Services in writing of the decision. The student shall be advised of is/her right to appeal the decision. Professional Liability Insurance – http://www.GRU.edu/students/Registrar/aregsindex.htm All nursing students are required to enroll in the low rate group policy through the Georgia Regents University with the cost of enrollment added to fees paid at registration fall semester. NAP Program: Nurse Anesthesia Students will be required to purchase additional professional liability insurance for the 2nd and 3rd year in the program through the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists College of Nursing Student Policies 31 of 41 Insurance Services to cover registered nurses for the practice of anesthesia. The Program Director will provide details regarding registration and costs. Student Employment Due to the rigor of the nursing programs, the College discourages working while enrolled as a full time student. If a student feels it absolutely necessary to offset his/her expenses by holding a part-time job, it is expected of him/her to consult with their faculty advisor and Program Director. If approved, the student cannot work eight hours preceding any clinical assignment. Students on academic probation will be asked to discontinue working to devote attention needed to be successful in the program. BSN / CNL Students: As stated in the Rules of the Georgia Board of Nursing http://sos.georgia.gov/plb/rn/ “unlicensed students may be employed only as unlicensed nursing personnel”. Students employed as unlicensed nursing personnel may not represent themselves or practice as nursing students except as part of a scheduled clinical learning activity in the curriculum. Students are accountable for their own actions and should be familiar with the limits of their practice and their job description. NAP Students: Students cannot work as a nurse anesthetist or represent him/herself as a nurse anesthetist. Doing so is a violation of the Georgia Nurse Practice Act and will be immediately reported to the Georgia Board of Nursing for disciplinary procedures. Additionally, misrepresenting yourself as a nurse anesthetist is grounds for immediate removal from the Program. Students are accountable for their own actions and should be familiar with the limits of their practice and their job description. Student Health Insurance see http://www.georgiahealth.edu/shs/generalinformation.html GRU is committed to the principle that all students should have adequate health care. Therefore, all students who are enrolled must carry comprehensive health protection meeting the specific minimum benefit standards recommended by the Student Services Committee. To satisfy this requirement, students are automatically enrolled in a GRU negotiated group health insurance plan and billed a semi- annual premium. If a student has other insurance that meets the university’s minimum benefit standards and wishes to opt out of the GRU plan, you must complete an online waiver by the designated deadline date. Student Identification All students must wear a visible GRU identification badge while on campus and may be asked to leave campus without proper identification. Student Records Policy Student folders are maintained as permanent records in the CON and are the property of the College. Students have access to their own records upon request to the Assistant Dean of Student Affairs. The student may not remove anything from the record and must read it in the presence of a faculty member of the College. Copies of information in the student’s education record may be provided if a written request is provided by the student. Due to the agreement between the Board of Regents and the Georgia Hospital Association, student files may be accessed on request by the clinical agencies. Substance Abuse Chemical dependency is defined as a substance use disorder characterized by an inability or unwillingness to terminate utilization in spite of serious negative consequences (AANA Position Statement 1.7 Substance Misuse and Chemical Dependency). Substance use includes mood-altering chemicals, drug addiction and alcoholism (addiction to the drug alcohol). A chemically dependent person is unable to stop drinking or taking a particular mood-altering chemical despite serious negative consequences. It is critical that the Nursing Profession maintain College of Nursing Student Policies 32 of 41 a safe, healthy and efficient environment for students and patients, and an environment free from the misuse of drugs and alcohol. GRU has established an on-campus assessment and counseling program for all students. The program is totally confidential for those who self-refer. Contact Student Health at 706.721.3448, http://www.georgiahealth.edu/shs/. See GRU Student Handbook, regarding Drugs and Narcotics, Violations of Law Governing Use of Alcohol, Conduct Irregularity while Under the Influence, Violation of local, state or federal law, on or off the campus. Any student charged and/or convicted of substance abuse including driving while impaired will be subject to severe disciplinary action up to academic dismissal. Immediate disclosure of any events must be reported to the Program Director or Assistant Dean of Student Services. Tardiness Students are expected to arrive on time for all scheduled classroom, lab, and clinical experiences and be ready to participate. Entering or exiting a classroom when class is in session can be disruptive to your professor and classmates and should be avoided. A student is considered tardy if he/she is not seated and ready to begin at the scheduled time. If a student will be late for any clinical activities, he/she should notify the clinical instructor and the clinical agency with reason and anticipated time of arrival. Tardiness is considered a professional deficiency and may result in academic sanctions and in the clinical setting, clinical failure. Technology Requirements GRU’s Division of Information Technology Support and Services provides reliable, complete IT services for students. The campus IT Service Desk is happy to serve as your single contact point for technical service and is centrally located on the Augusta Campus in the Library. The Service Desk is open weekdays – see website for hours of operation -- http://www.georgiahealth.edu/itss/help/index.html Support is provided via e-mail [email protected], telephone (706-721-4000). Your GRU netID is your single user id & password to login to the GRU network and many of the systems in use on campus. Technical Requirements – See PC / MAC Minimum SpecificationsSoftware Expectations and Downloads -- http://www.georgiahealth.edu/itss/software/index.html For visit Information Technology Support & Services Desire 2Learn – D2L –Getting Started – visit web site noted below. http://www.georgiahealth.edu/learn/desire2learn/tutorial/index.html --- If you have a pop-up blocker installed, you will not be able to access quizzes or other file that “pop up” or opens in a new window. You will need to disable your pop-up blocker (at least temporarily) while working in your courses. Outlook -- This is the official email system used by GRU. Please visit Outlook Quick Tips -http://www.georgiahealth.edu/itss/exchange/tips.html One45 - One45 is a web-based evaluation system that the CON will use to conduct surveys, complete necessary forms and final course evaluations each semester. During the first semester, students will receive an College of Nursing Student Policies 33 of 41 introductory Outlook email containing a login and a password along with instructions on how to log into One45. Students will be encouraged to log into the system and anonymously complete final course evaluations. MyGRU -- This is your personal connection to GRU information resources. This customizable Web portal serves as the campus intranet, providing individualized and campus wide content not available on the public http://www.GRU.edu/ site. See Welcome to MyGRU for more information about the portal purpose, privacy, development, and news. For assistance, please visit the MyGRU help site, https://my.GRU.edu/portal/page/portal/MyGRU/Login. Time Commitment Full time enrollment requires a full-time commitment. It is anticipated that approximately 50 – 60 hours/week will be required for class, lab, simulation, clinical, studying, and preparation time. It is anticipated that three to four hours is required for studying and preparation for every hour of class. Transfers To Other External Programs: If a student wishes to transfer to another program, the student must notify the Program Director in writing, to include the reason for transfer. NAP Program: For the Nursing Anesthesia Program, the "accepting" program director shall request a transcript of student experiences from the GRU NAP Program Director. Transcripts and other appropriate data will be forwarded within 30 days. The accepting program will determine the extent of transfer credit and notify the Council on Accreditation and the transferring student in writing within 30 days. Credit Hours: Pre-licensure nursing programs are unique for each University thus transfer credits from previous nursing programs are not transferrable. For graduate nursing programs, up to six semester hours of credit may be considered for transfer, at the discretion of the Program Director and Dean of the College of Graduate Studies. Any credits transferred do not reduce the residence requirements for any advanced degrees. Vacation All nursing programs follow the official academic calendar. Vacation is allowed only during the regularly scheduled University / College breaks. Students are expected to attend class and/or clinical whenever university classes are in session. For extenuating circumstances, the student should contact the Program Director. See the academic calendar for planning located at the Office of the Registrar. Withdrawal from the Nursing Program Refer to the GRU policy on withdrawal – http://catalog.georgiahealth.edu/content.php?catoid=10&navoid=1062 Re-entry will not be guaranteed, but is contingent upon factors such as space availability, remediation efforts made by the student and the timeframe for program completion. All off track students will be required to demonstrate retention of previously mastered material and competency in previously learned skills in order to progress. This may be accomplished by proficiency testing, skills check-off, auditing, completing an independent study, or repeating certain courses. College of Nursing Student Policies 34 of 41 Attachment A GEORGIA REGENTS UNIVERSITY CONFIDENTIALITY STATEMENT Georgia Regents University has an obligation to maintain the privacy and confidentiality of patient information. Confidentiality is important because it enhances our patients’ trust and their satisfaction with the healthcare services they receive here. It also demonstrates our commitment to professional standards and state and federal laws. Protected health information including the patient’s admission, diagnosis, treatment and financial status is confidential and must be protected by law. You are expected to limit your uses and disclosures of protected health information, and requests for protected health information, to the minimum amount of information necessary. Mental health records of patients are under special protection and may not be released. You are required to keep all records and communications pertaining to patients confidential and show respect for patients’ privacy. Access to patient information in electronic, hard copy or other form is restricted to those involved in the patient’s care or in monitoring the quality of patient care. Any additional use and disclosure of patient’s protected health information requires written authorization by the patient or his/her legally designated representative, except as described above. GRU considers a breach of patient privacy and confidentiality a serious infraction of GRU policies. Violations will result in disciplinary action and sanctions being taken by GRU. By signing below, you understand the policy and that it applies to patient records, personnel records and certain business records for all health care agencies you are assigned and affiliated with during your tenure as a GRU student. ___________________________________________ Student Signature ________________ Date ___________________________________________ (Please print) GRU College of Nursing College of Nursing Student Policies 35 of 41 Attachment B GEORGIA REGENTS HEALTH SYSTEM CONFIDENTIALITY STATEMENT Georgia Regents Health System has an obligation to maintain the privacy and confidentiality of patient information. Confidentiality is important because it enhances our patients’ trust and their satisfaction with the healthcare services they receive here. It also demonstrates our commitment to professional standards and state and federal laws. Protected health information including the patient’s admission, diagnosis, treatment and financial status is confidential and must be protected by law. You are expected to limit your uses and disclosures of protected health information, and requests for protected health information, to the minimum amount of information necessary. Mental health records of patients are under special protection and may not be released. You are required to keep all records and communications pertaining to patients confidential and show respect for patients’ privacy. Access to patient information in electronic, hard copy or other form is restricted to those involved in the patient’s care or in monitoring the quality of patient care. Any additional use and disclosure of patient’s protected health information requires written authorization by the patient or his/her legally designated representative, except as described above. GRU Health considers a breach of patient privacy and confidentiality a serious infraction of GRU Health’s policies. Violations will result in disciplinary action and sanctions being taken by GRU Health. By signing below, you understand that this policy applies to personnel records and certain business records for the GRU Health as well. ___________________________________________ Employee/Volunteer/Student Signature ________________ Date ___________________________________________ Employee/Volunteer/Student Name (please print) ________________ Unit or Department College of Nursing Student Policies 36 of 41 Attachment C -- Student Applied Learning Experience Agreement In consideration for participating in an applied learning experience (hereinafter referred to as the "A.L.E.") at any Georgia Hospital Association member Facility or any other Facility where I may participate in such an A.L.E. (hereinafter referred to as the "Facility"), I hereby agree to the following: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. To follow the administrative policies, standards and practices of the Facility when in the Facility. To report to the Facility on time and to follow all established regulations of the Facility. To keep in confidence all medical, health, financial and social information (including mental health) pertaining to particular clients or patients. To not publish any material related to my A.L.E. that identifies or uses the name of the Institution, the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, the Georgia Hospital Association, the Facility or its members, clients, students, faculty or staff, directly or indirectly, unless I have received written permission from the Institution, the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, the Georgia Hospital Association and the Facility. However, the Facility hereby grants to the Institution the right to publish Institution administrative materials such as catalogs, course syllabi, A.L.E. reports, etc. that identify or uses the name of the Georgia Hospital Association, the Facility or its members, staff, directly or indirectly. To comply with all federal, state and local laws regarding the use, possession, manufacture or distribution of alcohol and controlled substances. To follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (C.D.C.) Universal Precautions for Bloodborne Pathogens, C.D.C. Guidelines for Tuberculosis Infection Control and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (O.S.H.A.) Respiratory Protection Standard. To arrange for and be solely responsible for my living accommodations while at the Facility. To provide the necessary and appropriate uniforms and supplies required where not provided by the Facility. To wear a nametag that clearly identifies me as a student. Further, I understand and agree, unless otherwise agreed to in writing, that I will not receive any monetary compensation from the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, the Institution or the Facility for any services I provide to the Facility or its clients, students, faculty or staff as a part of my A.L.E. Unless otherwise agreed upon in writing, I also understand and agree that I shall not be deemed to be employed by or an agent or a servant of the Institution, the Regents or the Facility; that the Institution, Regents and Facility assumes no responsibilities as to me as may be imposed upon an employer under any law, regulation or ordinance; that I am not entitled to any benefits available to employees; and, therefore, I agree not to in any-way to hold myself out as an employee of the Institution, the Regents or the Facility. I understand and agree that I may be immediately withdrawn from the A.L.E. based upon a lack of competency on my part, my failure to comply with the rules and policies of the Institution or Facility, if I pose a direct threat to the health or safety of others or, for any other reason the Institution or the Facility reasonably believes that it is not in the best interest of the Institution, the Facility or the Facility's patients or clients for me to continue. Such party shall provide the other party and the student with immediate notice of the withdrawal and written reasons for the withdrawal. I understand and agree to show proof of professional liability insurance in amounts satisfactory to the Facility and the Institution, and covering my activities at the Facility, and to provide evidence of such insurance upon request of the Facility. I further understand that all medical or health care (emergency or otherwise) that I receive at the Facility will be my sole responsibility and expense. I have read the above statements, and understand them as they apply to me. I hereby certify that I am eighteen (18) years of age or older, that I am legally competent to execute this Applied Learning Agreement; and that I have read carefully and understand the above Applied Learning Experience Agreement; and that I have freely and voluntarily signed this "Applied Learning Experience Agreement". This the ______________________ day of ____________________ Signature ________________________________/ Print Name __________________________ Witness Signature ____________________________/ Print Name________________________ College of Nursing Student Policies 37 of 41 Attachment D - AUTHORIZATION FOR RELEASE OF RECORDS AND INFORMATION TO: The Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia or any of its member Institutions (hereinafter referred to as the "Institution"), and any Facility where I participate in an educational training program, including but not limited to any Georgia Hospital Association member facility or request to participate in an applied learning experience (hereinafter referred to as the "Facility"). RE: (Student Name) As a condition of my participation in an educational training program and with respect thereto, I hereby waive my privacy rights, including but not limited to any rights pursuant to the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act, 20 U.S.C. 1232g(b)(2)(B), and grant my permission and authorize The Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia or any of its member institutions to release any and all of my educational records and information in its possession, including but not limited to academic record and health information to any Facility where I participate in or request to participate in an applied learning experience, including but not limited to the Facility (hereinafter referred to as the "Facility"). I further authorize the release of any information relative to my medical history, physical, and mental condition to the Facility for purposes of verifying the information provided by me and determining my ability to perform my assignments in the educational training program. I also grant my permission to and authorize the Facility to release the above information to the Institution. The purpose of this release and disclosure is to allow the Facility and the Institution to exchange information about my medical history and about my performance in an educational training program. I further agree that this authorization will be valid throughout my educational training program. I further request that you do not disclose any information to any other person or entity without prior written authority from me to do so, unless disclosure is authorized or required by law. I understand that this authorization shall continue in force until revoked by me by providing written notice to the Institution and the Facility, except to the extent of any action(s) that has already been taken in accordance with this "Authorization for Release of Records and Information". In order to protect my privacy rights and interests, other than those specifically released above, I may elect to not have a witness to my signature below. However, if there is no witness to my signature below, I hereby waive and forfeit any right I might have to contest this release on the basis that there is no witness to my signature below. Further, a copy or facsimile of this "Authorization for Release of Records and Information" may be accepted in lieu of the original. By signing this “Authorization for Release of Records and Information”, I hereby indemnify and hold harmless the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, its members, agents, servants and employees, the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia member institutions and their respective members, agents, servants and employees, and the Facility and its members, agents, servants and employees (each of the foregoing being hereinafter referred to individually as the “Indemnified Party”) against all claims, demands, causes of action, actions, judgments, or other liability including attorney’s fees (other than liability solely the faculty of the Indemnified Party) arising out of or in combination with this “Authorization for Release of Records and Information”. I have read, or have had read to me, the above statements, and understand them as they apply to me. I hereby certify that I am eighteen (18) years of age or older, suffer under no legal disabilities, and that I have freely and voluntarily signed this “Authorization for Release of Records and Information"; and that I have freely and voluntarily signed this "Authorization for Release of Records and Information". Date: ___________________________. Signature Name: Witness Signature _______ Name: (Please print) (Please print) http://www.usg.edu/legal/docs/borgha_release.pdf _______ College of Nursing Student Policies 38 of 41 Attachment F -- BSN Academic Standards Committee Policy and Procedure The Program Director will notify the Assistant Dean of Student Services when a student’s academic performance / record or professional behaviors meet the criteria for sanctions and/or dismissal. All records pertaining to the student and a written report detailing the student’s deficiencies and previous remediation plans will be forwarded to the Assistant Dean. After all records are obtained, the Assistant Dean will notify the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, and the College of Nursing Dean. Article 1. Academic Standards (a) Each degree program will publish standards of academic progress and professional conduct that its enrolled students must meet. Article 2. Definitions (a) Dismissal – The permanent termination of a student’s right to continue enrollment in a degree program because the student has failed to meet published academic and/or professional standards of that program. Reenrollment requires that the student apply for admission as a new student consistent with established admissions requirements and policies of the degree program. However, dismissed students should not expect to be readmitted. (b) Time limits and days – Unless otherwise noted in these policies and procedures, days specified as time limits are defined as normal business days of GRU regardless of whether classes are in session. Weekends and official holidays of GRU are excluded. Article 3. Authority (a) The Academic Standards Committee (ASC) has the authority to recommend to the Dean the dismissal of any student who does not make satisfactory academic and professional progress through the program. The ASC shall not recommend the dismissal of any student until the student has been provided an opportunity for a hearing before the ASC. Within the College of Nursing, the Dean has final authority regarding a student’s dismissal. (b) Nothing in these policies and procedures shall be interpreted in such a way as to prevent the Dean from exercising discretion to grant extensions of time or exceptions to these policies and procedures when to do so would serve the best interests of the student or the institution. Article 4. Academic Standards Committee (a) ASC serves as an advisory committee to the Dean. The ASC is responsible for providing a fair and impartial review of student performance and for providing the student with a forum to address concerns regarding his or her performance and problems. The ASC will carry out these responsibilities through a hearing process. (b) The ASC is composed of three appointed faculty members and is chaired by the Assistant Dean of Student Services of the College of Nursing. (c) The Assistant Dean will serve as the presiding officer at the academic dismissal hearing except in cases when the Assistant Dean cannot be present, the Dean may appoint another faculty member or university administrator. The presiding officer shall not vote in matters presented during a hearing. The presiding officer shall direct the hearing in accordance with ASC rules and standards, and will rule on any requests made by any participant. (d) All three voting members must be present for a the hearing. Article 5: Student Rights Prior to being dismissed for academic reasons, students who fail to meet the standards for continued enrollment in a degree program have the right to: (a) An opportunity for a hearing before a faculty hearing panel of the ASC; College of Nursing Student Policies 39 of 41 (b) A minimum of five days written notice of the time, date, and location of any hearing to be held; (c) Written notice of the standards of academic and or professional performance the student has failed to meet and the aspects of the student’s performance that constitute that failure; (d) Written notice of the final decision of the Dean; and (e) An opportunity to appeal the Dean’s decision to the President of GRU. Article 6. Selection of Hearing Panels and Pre-Hearing Procedures (a) The panel for each dismissal hearing will be composed of faculty members. One of the three can be from outside the College. The panel members should not be directly involved with a student’s dismissal recommendation. The program representative and the student will have the right to request an alternate be seated to replace any panel member for cause. This must be requested within one day of being notified of the panel members. The presiding officer shall rule on all such requests. (b) Prior to the hearing, the presiding officer for the hearing may conduct a pre-hearing conference with the student and program director to review hearing procedures and for the student and program representative to trade information and evidence. (c) In extenuating circumstances the Dean may grant an extension of time for a hearing in order to obtain important additional information, to secure a quorum, etc. (d) After being selected for a hearing, members of the ASC may not communicate with the student or the program director regarding the case. Article 7. Confidentiality and Impartiality To the extent allowed by law, the privacy and confidentiality of the students and all participants of the hearing will be respected. The matter under consideration is not to be discussed outside of the hearing or afterwards. Article 8. Hearing Panel Procedure (a) It is the responsibility of the presiding officer to conduct the hearing in a manner that is fair and impartial to the student and the departmental representative. (b) All witnesses should be placed under oath to provide accurate, truthful, and complete information to the hearing panel. The oath may be administered by a notary public or other official with the authority to administer oaths. (c ) An audio recording and a brief written summary of the hearing shall be kept in the Office of Student Services and a copy made available to the parties concerned through the legal department in the event an appeal is filed. (d) It is the responsibility of the Office of the Dean to manage and store the written and audio records that are related to the hearing. The management of the records will follow the institutional policies that apply to all records of GRU. (e) The representative of the academic department in which the student is enrolled will present the student's academic record, information on the academic standards of the student’s program, and any other necessary items to the panel as reason for the recommendation for dismissal. (f) Advisors to students are limited to members of the GRU Community - faculty, staff, or student. The student must sign a written waiver of confidentiality for an advisor to attend the hearing. The role of the advisor is to College of Nursing Student Policies 40 of 41 advise the student; advisors may not participate directly in the hearing. (g) The student shall be afforded an opportunity to obtain and present witnesses and documents or other evidence. (h) The student, the departmental representative, and all members of the hearing panel, including the chair, shall have the right to question all witnesses and examine all documents and evidence. (i) At the conclusion of presentations by the departmental representative and the student, the hearing panel will deliberate in executive session to formulate a recommendation regarding the student's continued enrollment or academic standing. (j) The recommendation will be voted on by a written secret ballot. (k) The decision of the hearing panel shall be based on the findings of the hearing related to the student's academic / professional record. (l) The student, Dean, and the academic department in which the student is enrolled will receive notice of the outcome of the hearing from the Chair of the ASC, including recommendations to the Dean for final actions at the College level. (m) In addition to these hearing procedures, the committee (ASC) may at its discretion adopt other guidelines such as a standard hearing script or outline of procedures for use in all hearings. Any outline of procedures will be provided to the student and the departmental representative along with the notice of the time, date, and location of a hearing. Article 9. Responsibilities of the Dean (a) The Dean may implement the hearing panel’s recommendation or modify the recommendation. At his or her discretion, the Dean may dismiss the student or continue the enrollment of the student as a regular student, a special student on an altered curriculum, or as a student on academic probation. (b) The Dean shall advise the student in writing of his/her decision within five days of receiving the written recommendation of the hearing panel. The written notice to the student shall inform the student of the student’s right to appeal the Dean’s decision to the President of GRU. (c) The student may continue to attend class during the time an appeal is active within GRU unless the Dean’s final decision letter notifies the student that she/he is prohibited from attending class. (d) The Dean's decision is final for the College of Nursing. Article 10. Student Appeals Process (a) Students have five days after receipt of the Dean’s written decision to appeal to the President of GRU. Appeals to the President must be presented in writing to the Office of the President and must state reasons why a different decision is warranted. (b) If a student appeals the Dean’s decision, the Office of the Dean shall provide a copy of the hearing record, including all documents and any audio recording(s)), to the appropriate appeal body. The original recording and original documents shall remain in the Office of the Dean. (c) The President’s review of the appeal shall consist of an examination of the documents that comprise the record of the hearing and the student’s written appeal. The President, at his or her discretion, may request a conference with the student and any other party, the President deems appropriate. College of Nursing Student Policies 41 of 41 (d) Within five working days of receiving the student’s appeal, the President will provide the student, the Dean, and the academic department in written notification of his/her decision. (e) The President’s decision represents GRU’s final decision. No student may attend class, clinic, or lab after his/her dismissal has been upheld by the President. (f) If the student is not satisfied with the President’s decision, the student has the right to appeal to the Board of Regents in accordance with Board Policy within twenty days of receipt of the President’s decision.
