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FLATHEAD VALLEY COMMUNITY

COLLEGE

REGISTERED NURSING PROGRAM

STUDENT HANDBOOK For students completing the Associate of Science in Nursing curriculum using

the 2015/16 Catalog

SPRING/SUMMER 2017

01/2017

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Table of Contents

WELCOME…………………………………………………………………………………………………...….. 4

1. FACULTY AND STAFF………………………………………………………………………………..…… 5 2. GUIDING PRINCIPLES 2.1 Introduction……………………………………………………………………..………… 5 2.2 Mission Statement……………………………………………………………………….. 5 2.3 Defining Principles …………………………………………………………………..…. 6 2.4 Integrating Concepts…………………………………………………….…….……….. 7 3. PROGRAMS 3.1 Program Description…………………………………………………………….…..…. 8 3.2 Educational Outcomes……………………………………………………………....…. 8 3.3 Program Outcomes……………………………………………………………….…..… 8 3.4 Code of Ethics…………………………………………………………………….…..…. 10 3.5 Curriculum………………………………………………………………………….…..… 11 3.6 Program Affiliations……………………………………………………………….….… 12 3.7 Student Resources……………………………………………………………….……... 12 4. POLICIES 4.1 Immunization Requirements……………….………………………………….……… 13 4.2 Background Checks……………………………………………………………..……… 14 4.3 Health Insurance………………………………………………………………………… 14 4.4 Medical and Health Conditions……………………………….………………..…….. 14 4.5 Standard Precautions……………………………………………………………..……. 15 4.6 Injuries Sustained in the Clinical Area………………………………………....…… 18 4.7 Malpractice Insurance………………………………………………………….………. 18 4.8 Use of Supplies and Regulated Medical Equipment…………………….….…….. 19 4.9 Expenses…………………………………………………………………………..……… 19 4.10 Communications and Attendance…………………………………………….……… 20 4.11 Grading…………………………………………………………………………….……… 22 5. STANDARDS OF BEHAVIOR 5.1 General Standards……………………………………………………………….….….. 23 5.2 Lab/Clinical Behavior……..……………………………………………………..….…. 24 5.3 Confidentiality…………………………………………………………………….….….. 26 5.4 Appearance……………………………………………………………………….…..….. 27 6. CORRECTIVE ACTION AND APPEAL POLICY 6.1 Student Representation…………………………………………………………..….… 28 6.2 Corrective Action…………………………………………………………………..….… 28 6.3 Student Appeals……………………………………………………………………...…. 31 7. MONTANA LICENSING 7.1 Registered Nurse…………………………………………………………………..……. 35 8. FINANCIAL AID INFORMATION……………………………………………………………..……….….. 35 HEALTH INSURANCE PORTABILITY & ACCOUNTABILITY ACT CONSENT FORM……………… 38 2017 STUDENT HANDBOOK ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM……………………………………….… 42 APPENDIX A – ACADEMIC DISHONESTY……………………………………………………….……….. 46 APPENDIX B – NCSBN White Paper: A Nurse’s Guide to the Use of Social Media……………… 49 APPENDIX C – ARM 24.159.2301 Conduct of Nurses………………………………………………….. 56

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The FVCC Nursing Program Pledge (Adapted from the Florence Nightingale Pledge)

I solemnly pledge in the presence of this assembly,

to care for all individuals without regard to race,

gender, culture, politics, or social status.

I will respect at all times the dignity and beliefs of

the person under my care, holding in confidence all

personal information entrusted to me, and refrain

from any action which may endanger life or health.

I will spare no effort to preserve quality of life and

alleviate suffering as affirmed by the individual.

I will endeavor to keep my professional knowledge

and skill at the highest level, to give loyal support

and cooperation to all members of the health

care team, and to adhere to the code of ethics of nursing.

I will do my utmost to uphold the integrity and

high ideals of the nursing profession.

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Myrna Ridenour, MSN, RN, BC Nursing Program Director

NCLEX-PN Pass Rate Year #Tested Pass Rate 2007 7 100% 2008 9 100% 2009 change in program cycle no testers 2010 9 100% 2011 17 94% 2012 22 95.45% 2013 19 100% 2014 22 95.45% 2015 20 100% 2016

NCLEX-RN Pass Rate Year #Tested Pass Rate 2012 10 90% 2013 9 100% 2014 12 91.67% 2015 14 100% 2016

Welcome

The Flathead Valley Community College (FVCC) nursing faculty extend a warm welcome. Nursing programs are both challenging and rewarding. The faculty continuously incorporates a variety of teaching methods and principles to enhance learning experiences throughout this curriculum. Courses will integrate nursing knowledge, critical and creative thinking skills, assessment skills, and communication skills, leading the individual to be a well-informed, safe and caring nurse.

The FVCC Nursing program follows the state of Montana’s model curriculum and offers both an Certificate of Applied Science degree in Practical Nursing and a Registered Nursing (ASN) Associate of Science degree in Nursing. In April 2013, with generous support from the Broussard family and the community, the Rebecca Chaney Broussard Center for Nursing and Health Science became a reality. The building honors the late Becky Broussard, a nurse and philanthropist who understood the importance of quality health care for our communities. This space provides a state-of–the-art training facility for FVCC nursing and other health science students.

We are dedicated to supporting students as they work toward attaining their educational goals. Please feel free to bring questions and concerns to the faculty and staff’s attention. Good luck to you in your future studies! Myrna Ridenour, MSN, RN Nursing Program Director

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1. FACULTY AND STAFF

Myrna Ridenour, MSN, RN Nursing Program Director Montana State University

Regis University

Diane Bailey, MS, RN Faculty Salish Kootenai College

Sarah Wangerin, BSN, RN Faculty Montana State University

Janet Ivers, MSN, RN Faculty Excelsior College

Pam Klein, BSN, RN Lab & Nurse Assistant Course Coordinator

Northern Montana College Western Governor’s University

Cathy Relf, MS, RN Clinical/Lab Coordinator College of St. Benedict University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse

Cathy Fabel, AS Nursing Program Assistant Montana State University

2. GUIDING PRINCIPLES 2.1 Introduction The Flathead Valley Community College Nursing Department has prepared this handbook to inform the nursing students of the policies and guidelines specific to the nursing program. This handbook serves as a supplement to the FVCC catalog, which covers the general institutional policies for all FVCC students on the structure, policy, regulations, and procedures of the College in both academic and personal progress toward your final educational goal. It is the responsibility of each nursing student to review this handbook, and the FVCC catalog, independently and to refer to both as needed during his/her enrollment in the nursing program. 2.2 MISSION STATEMENT FVCC NURSING PROGRAM The Mission of Flathead Valley Community College (FVCC) Nursing Program is to provide accessible, high quality nursing education to culturally diverse student populations for the development of nurses for entry level of practice. Nursing education at FVCC prepares individuals to deliver safe, effective, and culturally competent nursing care to diverse individuals, families, and communities across the life span in the dynamic, evolving environments of rural Northwest Montana. Excellence in the delivery of innovative campus-based, distance, and clinical education challenges nursing students to develop a caring, relationship-based, professional identity and sound clinical judgment that facilitates educational mobility, personal growth, and a pattern of lifelong learning. The Nursing Faculty identify defining principles and integrating concepts that are foundational to nursing practice and nursing education and form the organizing framework that guides the educational outcomes and organizing framework of the curriculum. These concepts are drawn from the National League for Nursing Competency Statements (NLN, 2010), Montana Administrative Code for Nursing, Initiatives of the Quality and Safety to Educate Nursing (QSEN), Institute and Institute of Medicine (IOM), nursing theories (Campinha-Bacote, 2012, Neuman, 2010, Newman, 2010, Watson, 2011, Winters, 2012),and adult learning theory.

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2.3 DEFINING PRINCIPLES Defining Principles The defining principles of the nursing department encompass the faculty’s beliefs regarding the four major dimensions of nursing theory, plus nursing education: Patient Environment Health Nursing Nursing Education

Patient: The patient is defined as an individual, family, or community. The individual patient is a unique composite of physical, mental, psychosocial, and spiritual dimensions. The patient is an open system in a state of constant change. (Neuman, 2010). Patients with diverse backgrounds and experiences share similar hierarchical needs, developmental changes, and health patterns across the lifespan that influence health outcomes. (Newman, 2011). Environment: Environmental forces, both internal (physical, physiological, genetic, psychosocial, cultural, developmental, and spiritual) and external (economic, social, geographic, global, and health care access) drive the dynamic interactions that shape the human condition. Multiple determinants of health and changing tensions in the environmental system stimulate adaptive and integrative responses of the patient that influence health outcomes. (Healthy People Objectives 2020). Health: Health is a dynamic state of physical, emotional, physiological, mental, psychosocial, cultural, developmental, and spiritual well-being. Health status continually changes and is influenced by multiple determinant factors in the environmental system. (Neuman, 2010 and Newman, 2011). Health is defined by the patient values and beliefs (Campinha-Bacote, 2012). Rural dwellers define health and health-seeking behaviors in unique ways (Winters, 2012). The patient’s sense of optimal health and measurable health indicators signifies a state of balance and achievement of positive health outcomes. Nursing: The practice of nursing is an art and a science that involves a caring presence and holistic support for diverse patients in a variety of health care settings (Watson, 2012). A body of nursing knowledge, evidenced-based practice, and discrete professional identify and standards shape nursing as a practice discipline. Safe, quality nursing practice focuses on health promotion, disease prevention, risk reduction, health maintenance, illness management and restoration. Nursing judgment and clinical-decision-making are integral components in application of the nursing process as the framework to achieve patient goals (Tanner, 2009). Nursing Education: Nursing education promotes development of professional nursing values and lifelong learning. Nursing faculty maintain current evidenced-based knowledge and skills to serve as role models, mentors, and facilitators of the learning process. Students and faculty share responsibility to cultivate the knowledge, skills, and nursing judgment to deliver safe, quality nursing care. Nursing faculty establish a respectful learning climate that is responsive to the needs of adult students and the larger community. Excellence in nursing education incorporates classroom, distance learning, technology, simulation, and clinical practicum to introduce foundational principles and build critical thinking skills to solve complex nursing problems. (Benner, Sutphen, Leanard, and Day, 2010).

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2.4 Integrating Concepts The nursing faculty selected the following concepts to integrate throughout PN and RN curriculum framework and courses. The concepts guide the educational outcomes of each of the PN and RN program levels. Caring: Caring is the essence of nursing practice. A caring presence reflects the basic concern for human dignity and the recognition of the unique worth of each person. Caring takes place with every nursing interaction. Caring involves the use of cognitive and intuitive knowledge, techniques, or processes that make a difference to one’s sense of well-being. Caring is an intentional activity that promotes health, healing, and hope in response to the human condition. Caring and relationship-based values are demonstrated through one-on-one interactions, group processes, organizational climates, and the larger community structures to support health and wellness (Watson, 2011). Nursing encompasses a culture of caring that considers the whole person, a commitment to common good, and reaching out to the vulnerable (NLN, 2010) Nursing Judgment: Nursing judgment encompasses three processes: critical thinking, clinical judgment, and integration of evidence based practice. Nurses employ these processes in decision making about clinical care, developing and applying research findings to the patient/community, and management of resource allocation (NLN, 2010). Critical thinking involves questioning, “analysis, synthesis, interpretation, inference, inductive and deductive reasoning, intuition, application and creativity” to reach independent and interdependent decisions for planning and implementing nursing care (AACN, 1998, p. 37). The nursing process provides the necessary framework for critical thinking and decision making. The nurse and patient(s) enter a partnership to assess needs, identify health goals, plan care, implement interventions, and evaluate progression toward mutually identified health outcomes. Quality and Safety: Nursing practice is dedicated to minimizing the risk of harm to patients through quality and safe individual nursing performance, efficient use of resources to promote optimal health outcomes, and provision of leadership and accountability. The culture of safety is maintained by use of continual quality improvement methods (NLN, 2010 and QSEN, 2012). Communication: Communication is an interactive process that exchanges information among the nurse, patient(s), and the health care team. The communication process uses verbal, non-verbal, electronic, and other media strategies for the purpose of social and emotional support, assessment, problem-solving, negotiation and conflict resolution, patient and interprofessional education, and data-gathering and analysis to achieve health outcomes. Effective nursing communication is relationship-centered, respects the perspectives and culture of others, maintains confidentiality, employs a collaborative team approach, and reflects accountability for the outcomes of the communication process (NLN, 2010). Diversity and Cultural Competence: Valuing diversity involves recognition of the differences and similarities individuals, groups, and communities to promote the delivery of culturally safe and congruent care and support a healthy and effective workplace environment. It embraces acceptance and respect for the environment from which the individual comes and to which the individual will return. By recognizing and valuing diversity, the nurse supports different values, beliefs, ways of thinking, being, interacting, learning, and lifestyle, self-care, and health care choices (NLN, 2010). Professional Identity: Professional identity “involves the internalization of core values and perspectives recognized as integral to the art and science of nursing” (NLN, 2010) and represents the framework which shapes ethical standards of practice. It encompasses respect for diversity,

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autonomy, truth, justice, and dignity. The nurse embraces fundamental values such as accountability, reflective practice, commitment to life-long learning and promotes the ideals of the nursing profession (Benner, et al., 2010). 3. PROGRAMS

Associate of Science in Nursing (RN) 3.1 Program Description ASN program follows the state of Montana Model Nursing Curriculum.

Associate of Science Nursing Program

The focus of FVCC Associate of Science Nursing curriculum is to prepare graduates in the performance of services requiring substantial specialized knowledge of the biological, physical, behavioral, psychological, and sociological sciences and of nursing theory as a basis for the nursing process. The nursing process is the assessment, nursing analysis, planning, nursing intervention, evaluation in the promotion and maintenance of health, the prevention, case finding, and management of illness, injury, or infirmity, and the restoration of optimum function. The term also includes administration, teaching, counseling, supervision, delegation, and evaluation of nursing practice and the administration of medications and treatments prescribed by physicians, naturopathic physicians, physician assistants, optometrists, advanced practice registered nurses, dentists, osteopaths, or podiatrists authorized by state law to prescribe medications and treatments. Each registered nurse is directly accountable and responsible to the consumer for the quality of nursing care rendered. Mont. Code. Ann. §37-8-102 (9).

Graduates will learn the roles of provider of care, manager of care, and member of the discipline of nursing. Through the use of the nursing process and critical thinking, graduates will act as advocates for their patients. Furthermore, students will have taken appropriate coursework empowering them to pursue further educational goals such as a bachelor’s or higher degree, if desired.

Students who successfully complete all of the required courses (a minimum of 72 credits) earn

an Associate of Science Nursing degree. Graduates will be eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nursing (NCLEX-RN).

Graduates who pass their licensure exam will perform services according to the rules that

govern the Montana Board of Nursing found in the Administrative Rules of Montana, Title 24, Chapter 159.

3.2 Educational Outcomes

Associate in Science Nursing Program

Upon completion of the Associate of Science (ASN)-Registered Nursing curriculum the graduate will be able to:

1. Demonstrate caring relationships and advocacy to promote self-determination, integrity, and growth of the patient, family, and members of the interprofessional health team.

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2. Demonstrate nursing judgment and clinical-decision-making, incorporating evidence-based practices and the nursing process in the delivery of safe, holistic nursing care.

3. Manage and coordinate safe quality patient care and monitor health outcomes in

collaboration with the interprofessional health team.

4. Apply effective communication strategies and health technology to support interpersonal relationships, collaboration, documentation, and education of patients, families, and health team members.

5. Advocate for cultural competence and diversity in the workplace.

6. Practice within the ethical, legal & regulatory frameworks of nursing, demonstrating

personal, workplace, and professional nursing behaviors reflecting self-awareness, integrity, and lifelong growth and development.

3.3 Nursing Program Outcomes

1. Program graduate’s performance on the NCLEX will be at or above the national

average.

2. Of the students who enter the PN or ASN program, 80% or greater will successfully complete the program.

3. Graduate Satisfaction surveys will reflect a >80% satisfaction

4. Employer Satisfaction surveys will reflect a >90% satisfaction

5. Of the students who graduate the PN or ASN program, 80% or greater will report being employed or planning to continue on as fulltime students.

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3.4 Code of Ethics FVCC Nursing Programs subscribe to the American Nurses Association code of ethics. This

document serves as a clear, concise statement of the ethical obligations and duties of every individual who enters the nursing profession. It is a nonnegotiable ethical standard that provides an expression of nursing’s own understanding of its commitment to society. It states the following:

Ethics is an integral part of the foundation of nursing. Nursing has a distinguished history of

concern for the welfare of the sick, injured, and vulnerable and for social justice. This concern is embodied in the provision of nursing care to individuals and the community. Nursing encompasses the prevention of illness, the alleviation of suffering, and the protection, promotion, and restoration of health in the care of individuals, families, groups, and communities.

Nurses act to change those aspects of social structures that detract from health and well-being. Individuals who become nurses are expected not only to adhere to the ideals and moral norms of the profession but also to embrace them as a part of what it means to be a nurse. The ethical tradition of nursing is self-reflective, enduring, and distinctive. A code of ethics makes explicit the primary goals, values, and obligations of the profession.

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3.5 Curriculum The 6 semester curriculum for the Registered nursing program is designed to be integrated. Each course builds upon content from previous courses. Students will be responsible for all content and evaluated accordingly.

COURSE NUMBER TITLE CREDIT FALL SEMESTER (PRE-NURSING) BIOH 201 Anatomy & Physiology I 4 WRIT 101 College Writing I 3 *M 115 Probability and Linear Math 3 NUTR 221 Nutrition 3 TOTAL (SEMESTER 1) CREDITS 13 SPRING SEMESTER (PRE-NURSING) BIOH 211 Anatomy & Physiology II 4 CHMY 121 Introduction to General Chemistry/lab 4 NRSG 100 Introduction to Nursing 1 PSYX 100 Introduction to Psychology 4 TOTAL (SEMESTER 2) CREDITS 13

SUBMIT PRACTICAL NURSING APPLICATION – MUST BE ACCEPTED TO CONTINUE BELOW

FALL SEMESTER NRSG 130 Fundamentals of Nursing & Lab 7 NRSG 135 Nursing Pharmacology 3 NRSG 138 Gerontology for Nursing & Clinical 2 NRSG 144 Core Mental Health Nursing 2 TOTAL (SEMESTER 3) CREDITS 14 SPRING SEMESTER NRSG 140 Core Concepts of Adult Nursing & Clinical 7 NRSG 142 Core Concepts of Maternal/Child Nursing & Clinical 3 NRSG 148 Leadership Issues

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TOTAL (SEMESTER 4) CREDITS 12

NRSG 250 Transitions to RN – Summer or Fall Semester – 3 SUBMIT ASN APPLICATION – MUST BE CURRENT LPN or graduate of a State Board of Nursing approved PN program and eligible for licensure & ACCEPTED TO CONTINUE BELOW SPRING SEMESTER NRSG 252 Complex Care Maternal/Child & Clinical 3 NRSG 254 Complex Care Mental Health & Clinical 2 NRSG 258 Pathophysiology 4 BIOM 250/251 Microbiology for Health Sciences/ Lab 4 TOTAL (SEMESTER 5) CREDITS 13 SUMMER SEMESTER SOCI 101 Introduction to Sociology 3 NRSG 262 Complex Care Adult & Clinical 4 NRSG 265 Advanced Clinical Skills Lab 1 NRSG 266 Managed Client Care & Clinical 4 TOTAL (SEMESTER 6) CREDITS 12

*OR M121 College Algebra, OR M152 Precalculus Algebra, OR M153 Precalculus Trig. OR M171 Calculus 1

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3.6 Program Affiliations The curriculum is both didactic and clinical. It is designed to progress from simple to complex and to accommodate to a variety of learning styles and experiences. Included in the clinical experience is exposure to a variety of healthcare learning situations to better prepare the student for overall care of patients. Clinical sites include acute care hospitals, long term care facilities, clinics/offices, and public health organizations. Not all affiliates are utilized every semester. Clinical sites are chosen in order to complement didactic course content and maximize course learning opportunities. Students will be expected to follow the policies in place at each clinical facility.

As the healthcare communities have grown in the last five years and will continue to grow over the next 20 years, there will be additional clinical experiences for students in a variety of settings. In addition to traditional clinical sites, students will have the opportunity to experience complex scenarios in a state of the art simulation lab located on the main campus. Listed below are some of the facilities and organizations utilized for clinical experiences:

Cabinet Peaks Medical Center Dialysis Center Inc. in Kalispell Flathead City-County Health Department Genesis Heritage Place Immanuel Lutheran Home Kalispell Regional Healthcare which includes:

Kalispell Regional Medical Center, Brendan House, Pathways Treatment Center, The Health Center, and Clinics

Lakeview Care Center Libby Care Center

Montana Veteran’s Home North Valley Hospital and affiliated clinics

3.7 Student Resources

The following is a list of student support services available at FVCC:

Academic advisement/counseling Scholarships Personal adjustment counseling Students with disabilities resource center Learning resources (math lab; writing lab) Grants for disadvantaged students Financial aid Work study Career placement/testing Information technology

Please refer to the FVCC catalog for additional resource information.

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4. POLICIES Many of the Nursing Program standards and policies which are followed (such as grading scale, attendance, course repetition, graduation requirements, etc.) are more rigorous and strict than general FVCC requirements. This is to address the needs of a clinical discipline. See below for an overview of these standards and policies. Please refer to the individual policies or course syllabi for more specifics. 4.1 Immunization Requirements BEFORE a student’s final acceptance into the Nursing Program, it is his or her responsibility to provide documentation of continued compliance with the following:

Tdap: Proof of immunization as an adult Hepatitis B Vaccination: Series of three injections with antibody titer results (anti-HBs) prior

to acceptance in the Nursing Program is required. Students who do not meet this requirement must be reviewed by the Director of Nursing on an individual basis. Final approval or waiver must be granted, prior to the student entering clinical experiences.

MMR: Official record of two doses of measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) immunization, or

positive titer. Varicella: Proof of chicken pox immunity by statement of actual disease, or official record of

vaccination dates, or lab titer.

Tuberculosis: Proof of current freedom from tuberculosis is required prior to admission to the Nursing Program and every semester prior to clinical experiences. Students with a positive test must provide written clearance from their health care provider to participate in patient care.

Record of a two-step negative TB skin test is required initially, then proof of a negative test in the last twelve months (either TB skin test, chest x-ray or QFT titer) thereafter.

Influenza Vaccine: Students will be expected to show proof of a Flu vaccine for the current year once the vaccine becomes available. Most clinical facilities are now requiring all students and employees to receive a flu vaccine. Because of this, individuals who refuse a flu vaccine may be unable to complete clinical course objectives, which could lead to failure to meet course objectives and thus failure of the program.

Students whose immunization documentation is incomplete will not be allowed to participate in any clinical experience until the documentation is up to date, and are subject to the provisions of the clinical absence policy.

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4.2 Background Checks Upon initial acceptance into the FVCC Nursing Program a background check will be completed per the request of our clinical partners. 1. The background check minimally includes the following: County Criminal, MT Statewide

Criminal, Fraud and Abuse Control Information Systems (FACIS Level 1), ID Trace, and National Sex Offender Public Registry and others if requested by the clinical facility.

2. Background checks are completed at the student’s expense. 3. Discrepancies or self-reported disclosures on individual background checks will be evaluated

by the FVCC clinical partners 4. Students with documented discrepancies may be denied access to clinical experiences per

individual clinical facility policy. 5. Students who are denied access to a clinical facility may be in jeopardy of being unable to

complete clinical hours and assignments and meet the course objectives. Alternate experiences are not guaranteed if students are denied access to a clinical assignment.

If a student has been convicted of any violation of the law that was not revealed as a discrepancy or self-disclosure on his/her background check, the student has the responsibility to report such violations, and any subsequent violations for review by FVCC clinical partners. Failure to report such convictions may be grounds for dismissal from the Nursing Program.

4.3 Health Insurance Many partner facilities require students to have personal health insurance coverage as a condition of participation in clinicals at their facilities. All students must maintain a health insurance policy during the duration of their enrollment as students in the nursing program. Proof of insurance will be required prior to the start of the program. This insurance may be a catastrophic policy only. FVCC offers a Student Health Clinic for urgent care situations. The Student Health Clinic is not a replacement for personal health insurance coverage. 4.4 Medical and Health Conditions A medical or health condition that could adversely affect a student’s ability to meet program/course objectives must be promptly reported to the Nursing Program Director. A medical or health condition could compromise the client’s safety and the clinical credentialing of the program may be jeopardized resulting in an inability to complete the clinical education portion of the program. The use of any controlled substances or prescribed medications that could alter an individual’s judgement, coordination or level of consciousness must be reported to the Nursing Program Director. Students may be required to provide documentation from a medical provider of the need for the medication/controlled substance. Use of controlled substances or medications could require random urine testing for substance screening per the clinical partners’ policies. Students may be unable to participate in clinical experiences based on individual facility policies regarding controlled substances and identified medications.

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The unauthorized use of a controlled substance or the improper use of a medication constitutes grounds for suspension from the program with the first offense after discussion with Nursing Director and Dean of Students. Students may be dismissed from the program dependent on the outcomes of an investigation into the incident. All short and long-term disabilities should be promptly reported to the Nursing Program Director. Any student who has medically documented restrictions must provide a statement from his/her health care provider specifically outlining the restrictions and/or limitations. Should these restrictions be lifted, the student must provide follow-up documentation to the Nursing Program Director. Certain medical conditions and the proper use of a prescribed medication may result in dismissal from the program after discussion with the Program Director and Dean of Students if the medical condition or drug use renders the student unable to meet program/course objectives During clinical experiences, students must report communicable diseases, infections, skin breaks, etc. to the clinical instructor/course instructor prior to caring for patients. All information reported to the Nursing Program related to student health/ medical conditions is held in confidence and shared only with individuals who have a legitimate right to the information. 4.5 Standard Precautions Standard Precautions represent the minimum infection prevention measures that apply to all patient care, regardless of suspected or confirmed infection status of the patient, in any setting where healthcare is delivered. These evidence-based practices are designed to both protect healthcare personnel and prevent the spread of infections among patients. Standard Precautions replaces earlier guidance relating to Universal Precautions and Body Substance Isolation. Standard Precautions include: 1) hand hygiene, 2) use of personal protective equipment (e.g., gloves, gowns, facemasks), depending on the anticipated exposure, 3) respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette, 4) safe injection practices, and 5) safe handling of potentially contaminated equipment or surfaces in the patient environment. (CDC 2011) STANDARD PRECAUTION POLICY: Students are expected to follow Standard Precautions in order to prevent contact with HIV, HBV, and other blood-borne pathogens. RATIONALE: Since medical history and physical examination cannot reliably identify all patients who are infectious, all body fluids shall be considered potentially infectious materials. According to the concept of Standard Precautions, all human blood and certain human body fluids are treated as if known to be infectious. PROCEDURE: 1. “Occupational Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens; Needlesticks and Other Sharps Injuries; Final Rule” Federal Register. January 18, 2001; Vol. 66, No. 12, pgs. 5318-5325 or most current guidelines will be followed as the reference sources. 2. Students will have access to the current guidelines. 3. Examples of general guidelines are listed. Students should also follow agency guidelines in clinical practice.

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4. All students will attend an annual presentation on Standard Precautions. REVIEW OF GUIDELINES: All health care workers should routinely use appropriate barrier precautions to prevent skin and mucous membrane exposure when contact with blood and other body fluids of any patient/client is anticipated. GLOVES: Gloves must be worn when it can be reasonably anticipated that there may be hand contact with blood, other potentially infectious materials, mucous membranes or non-intact skin. Gloves must be changed after contact with each patient. HAND WASHING: Hands and other skin surfaces should be washed immediately and thoroughly if contaminated with blood or other body fluids. Hands should be washed immediately when gloves are removed. GOWNS: Gowns or aprons must be worn when in direct contact with the patient if there is likelihood that your clothing may be soiled with blood or other potentially infectious materials. MASKS, EYE PROTECTION AND FACE SHIELDS: Masks, in combination with eye protection devices or chin length face shields will be worn whenever splashes, spray, spatter or droplets of blood or other potentially infectious materials may be generated and eye, nose or mouth contamination can be reasonably anticipated. SHARPS: Contaminated needles and other contaminated sharps (scalpels, broken glass, wire) shall not be bent, broken, recapped or removed. Contaminated sharps are discarded immediately or as soon as feasible in closeable, puncture resistant, leak proof, labeled containers. SPECIMENS: Specimens of blood or other potentially infectious materials must be placed in a container which prevents leakage during collection, handling, processing, storage or transport. RESUSCITATION EQUIPMENT: When in a clinical setting, the student should assure that a resuscitation bag, pocket mask and oral airway or other ventilation devices are readily available for emergency use. To minimize the need for emergency mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, mouthpieces, resuscitation bags or other ventilation devices should be available for use in areas in which the need for resuscitation is predictable. LINENS: Handle as little as possible with minimal agitation to prevent contamination to air or persons handling linen. All soiled linen should be bagged at location where it is used. Linen soiled with blood should be placed and transported in bags that prevent leakage. DISPOSAL OF HAZARDOUS WASTES: Materials from skills labs or clinical experiences involving contaminated materials (i.e. needles, lancets or other equipment contaminated with blood) need to be disposed of properly in the designated container and area. Arrangements have been made to have these materials disposed of in accordance with CDC regulations. CLEANING SPILLS OF BLOOD AND OTHER BODY FLUIDS: 1. Wear gloves. Initially clean area using disposable towels. 2. Decontaminate area with an appropriate germicide or a 1:100 solution of household bleach. Cleaning equipment should be disposed of as infective waste. 3. Wash hands following removal of gloves. ADDITIONAL PRECAUTIONS: 1. Eating, drinking, smoking, applying cosmetics or lip balm and handling contact lenses are prohibited in areas where there is a reasonable likelihood of occupational exposure. 2. Food and drink must not be kept in refrigerators, freezers, shelves, cabinets or on countertops or benchtops where blood or other potentially infectious materials are present. 3. Students/health care workers who have exudative lesions or weeping dermatitis should refrain from all direct patient care and from handling patient-care equipment until the condition resolves. 4. Any non-intact skin must be covered when in clinical areas to avoid exposure to infectious substances. 5. Pregnant students/health care workers are not known to be at greater risk of contracting HIV infection than health care workers who are not pregnant; however, if a health care worker develops HIV infection during pregnancy, the infant is at risk of infection resulting from perinatal

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transmission. Because of this risk, pregnant health care workers should be especially familiar with and strictly adhere to precautions to minimize the risk of HIV transmission. IX. HIV TESTING: Nursing students who believe they may be at risk for HIV antibody have an obligation to be tested. While the testing decision should be voluntary for the individual, there may be instances in which testing could be required. Education, training and confidentiality safeguards will be used to encourage those who believe they might be at risk to be tested. Nursing students are encouraged to be screened for HIV as part of their routine medical care as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. RATIONALE: An HIV antibody positive nursing student may require modification/accommodation of clinical education to limit additional risks to the personal health of the student and to limit performance of "exposure prone" procedures with clients. (Position Statement, March, 1992, AACN; Position Statement on HIV infection and nursing students, February, 1992. ANA; MMWR 1989; 38 [S-6:15]; Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 [P.L. 101-336].)

Approximately 25 percent of the more than one million persons infected with HIV in this country are unaware of their infection. People who are infected but not aware of their condition are unable to take advantage of the therapies that can keep them healthy and extend their lives, or have the knowledge to protect their partners from becoming infected. Knowing if one is HIV-infected or HIV-negative confers great benefits in healthy decision making. The CDC’s new initiative, Advancing HIV Prevention: New Strategies for a Changing Epidemic, recommends that providers include HIV testing, when indicated, as part of routine medical care on the same voluntary basis as other diagnostic and screening tests (Advancing HIV Prevention: New Strategies for a Changing Epidemic --- United States, 2003. April 18, 2003 / 52(15);329-332. http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5215a1.htm). PROCEDURE: 1. Inquiry into HIV status is not part of student application processes. 2. Qualified individuals cannot/will not be denied admission to nursing program on the basis of HIV status. 3. The FVCC Nursing Program informs students of potential infectious hazards inherent in nursing education programs including those that might pose additional risks to the personal health of HIV positive persons. 4. Students who are HIV positive or who have AIDS may not pose a health risk to other students in an academic or residential setting. In a nursing lab or clinical setting the CDC guidelines and Standard Precautions must be followed. 5. Clinical settings that pose additional risk to the personal health of HIV positive students should be identified, and such persons should be advised of these risks and urged to consult their health care provider to assess the significance of risks to their own health. 6.A member of the Nursing Faculty who will provide information and referral on health care and counseling and begin a process to assess the need for necessary accommodations prior to beginning clinical coursework. Such accommodations will be crafted on a "case by case" basis by a group designated for that purpose. 7. Any accommodations in clinical experience for HIV positive students should take into account the nature of the clinical activity, the technical expertise of the infected person, the risks posed by HIV carriage, functional disabilities and the transmissibility of simultaneously carried infectious agents. 8. HIV status records will be kept separately from academic files and will be accessible only on a need-to-know basis with the individual student's written consent. Regulations and statutes related to confidentiality apply to these records. Release of this data without authorization will be treated as a breach of confidentiality.

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Standard precautions are taught throughout the curriculum, but in detail during the Fundamentals of Nursing course. Students are expected to review information each semester.

Post-Exposure Management Procedure: Should an exposure occur the following

procedure should be followed and/or the facility procedure for treatment. A. Immediate Treatment (local wound care must be carried out immediately following any

exposure.) Thoroughly clean wound with soap and water under running water. Flush affected mucous membranes with copious amounts of water or saline.

Other wound care dictated by type and severity of injury. B. Notification of Appropriate Parties

The student is responsible for immediately reporting any exposure to the instructor and appropriate facility staff. Reporting delay may jeopardize the accuracy of assessment of the exposure and could impair the ability to institute any available preventative measures.

The student will comply with the facility’s blood-borne pathogen policies and procedures.

The student will complete the Nursing and Health Sciences Division blood borne pathogen exposure report form.

The student will complete the waiver treatment form if he/she chooses not to seek treatment or see a physician.

Students will be required to follow clinical facility policies. C. Student Responsibilities for Follow-up Treatment

The student will provide faculty with a copy of the report of exposure and any treatment.

The student is responsible for completing all follow-up procedures. The student may be financially responsible for costs associated with the exposure.

4.6 Injuries Sustained in the Clinical Area Any injury that occurs in a clinical setting must be immediately reported to the clinical faculty, facility and Nursing Program Director. The faculty will ensure that all facility policies relevant to the injury are followed and this may include substance abuse screening as required by the facility. Any substance abuse screening (urine testing) will be at the student’s expense and done only by an approved facility. An FVCC incident report form will be completed as well as any required forms by the facility. Nursing Program personnel will assist the student in completion of required documentation.

4.7 Malpractice Insurance Malpractice insurance is required for all nursing students and is paid for by the Nursing program through student fees. The basic tenets of the policy are as follows and students may request a copy of the full policy if desired:

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Each student is covered only while supervised by a Nursing program faculty member/designee in an official FVCC nursing course. Coverage ceases upon termination of the student's enrollment, either by graduation or dismissal.

Coverage is limited to activities that are part of, and a requirement of, the student’s curriculum.

It is the student’s responsibility to notify the clinical faculty member about any occurrence that might cause liability to the student, clinical affiliate, or FVCC. The clinical instructor will assist with appropriate facility and/or FVCC incident reporting. Accidents/incidents must also be reported to the Nursing Program Director as soon as possible. Failure to report incidents may result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal from the nursing program. 4.8 Use of Supplies and Regulated Medical Equipment Removal of any item from the Nursing Program or a clinical affiliate, except as approved by the nursing faculty, is not permissible and will result in corrective action that may include suspension and/or dismissal from the program. Theft of property from the Nursing Program or a clinical affiliate may be referred to law enforcement personnel for criminal prosecution. 4.9 Expenses Completion of a degree in nursing is costly. In addition to tuition and fees, nursing students should be aware that required nursing textbooks/reference materials are expensive and that many courses require several texts. The student should also plan for a number of out-of-pocket expenses related to course/program requirements. These expenses include, but are not limited to:

Lab/Clinical supplies: The following are required for all lab/clinical experiences unless otherwise indicated by the lab/clinical instructor:

• Watch with a sweeping second hand • Penlight • Bandage scissors • Stethoscope

Graduation Pins: FVCC’s Nursing Program celebrates the graduation of its students each year with a traditional pinning ceremony. Students may be responsible for the cost of the pin. Nametags: The Nursing Program issues one nametag to each student free of charge. A fee may be charged for a replacement nametag. Transportation: Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from classes and clinical experiences. Students should expect and be prepared for travel outside of the Kalispell area. Uniforms: FVCC Nursing Program selects the style and type of clothing worn by its students in the lab/clinical setting. Students are required to wear this designated clothing whenever they are in a lab/clinical setting unless otherwise directed. Uniforms are to be worn only during lab/clinical experiences or as directed. The required uniform consists of the following:

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o Predominantly white, navy, brown or black shoes without open toes or heels (no crocs)

o Gray uniform top available through the FVCC Bookstore o Navy blue uniform pants

Each uniform top must have an FVCC Nursing Program patch affixed to it on the left shoulder. These patches are available for purchase at the FVCC Bookstore. Students are encouraged to purchase at least two pairs of pants and two uniform tops to assure a clean uniform each clinical day. Uniform tops are purchased through the FVCC Bookstore. Students may purchase shoes and pants wherever they desire.

4.10 Communications and Attendance Students are responsible for immediately making changes in address, phone number, or e-mail in the student portal on the FVCC Website and sharing these changes with the Nursing Program Assistant and faculty. This information must be kept current at all times in order to facilitate timely communication regarding program information. FVCC Nursing will be using FVCC student e-mail addresses for all e-mail communication. Students should check their FVCC e-mail account on a daily basis.

Classroom

Students are expected to attend all classes. Students are expected to make personal appointments and arrange work schedules outside of scheduled class, lab and clinical times. Clinical times and assignments are subject to change and this often is with short notice. Children, family members, friends, etc. are not allowed in classes, lab or clinical areas unless prior approval has been obtained. To avoid class disruptions, children are not allowed to linger in the hallways during class. Financial aid may be available for daycare; contact the Financial Aid office for details. Plans for taking time off for travel or other activities should take place during breaks from classes such as Christmas or Spring Break. Please refer to individual course syllabi for course-specific standards and policies. Students who may have need to miss extended periods of time during a semester must contact the Nursing Program Director for discussion and options. Laboratory/ Clinical: Students may not miss any more than 25% of lab/clinical hours in order to meet the objectives for the clinical portion of a course.

Attendance in the Laboratory/clinical experiences is essential in acquiring necessary knowledge and skills to meet course objectives; therefore, prompt and regular attendance is required. If a course has a lab/clinical component, students must successfully complete both the classroom and lab/clinical portions in order to pass the course. 1. If it is necessary to be absent from lab/clinical, it is the student’s responsibility to inform

the lab/clinical instructor at least 30 minutes prior to start time unless there are extenuating circumstances.

2. If a student fails to report to an assigned lab/clinical and does not notify the instructor 30 minutes prior to assigned arrival time, the student may be subject to disciplinary action

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which may include suspension from the Nursing Program after discussion with the Nursing program director and Dean of students.

3. Tardiness to lab/clinical is considered unprofessional. If a student arrives at the lab/clinical site more than 15 minutes after the assigned start time, the student may be considered absent and may not be allowed to participate in the clinical for that day. Consistently arriving late (within the 15 minutes after scheduled arrival time) to lab/clinical will be reviewed by faculty and the Nursing Director and may result in suspension from the course with possible dismissal from the program.

4. Arriving at a lab/clinical inappropriately clothed, not adequately prepared for the assignment, or not having the required supplies, may result in a student being sent home from the lab/clinical. If a student is sent home it is considered a missed lab/clinical day. *

5. Absences for any reason jeopardize the student’s ability to achieve the course and program objectives. Missing more than 25% of the scheduled lab or clinical hours for any course may

result in the student being required to withdraw from the program due to inability to meet course and program objectives.

Each Course has designated number of Lab or clinical hours. Example: 25% of 48 hours clinical time is 12 hours.

In the event the student misses a lab/clinical day, the student will be notified by nursing faculty for the course of the potential inability to meet objectives for the course.

In the event the student misses a second day of lab/clinical, the student will be notified of pending failure of the course due to lack of ability to meet course objectives. The student will be required to meet with the Nursing Program Director or designee and nursing faculty member to determine if the student will be able to meet objectives for the course and allowed to continue in the course.

There is no guarantee of make-up for missed lab/clinical time. Accommodation may be made for those students required to miss clinical days due to military service. However extended periods of missed time, may result in a student being unable to meet the objectives for the course and thus fail the clinical portion of the course.

*If a student is unable to attend a clinical due to illness, unpreparedness, impairment or other causes the faculty member will deny access to the clinical site for one day. Documentation and discussion with the student will be a part of this process. The faculty member will inform the Nursing Program Director by e-mail or in writing. If a student is denied access for longer than one day, a committee consisting of the Dir. of Educational Services, Nursing Program Director and one other nursing/health science faculty member will hold a meeting to review the evidence/circumstances, hear from the student and to then determine if the suspension is in order. If a student is suspended and wishes to appeal, the college’s student appeals process will be enacted.

Students who are involuntarily suspended or withdrawn from a nursing course due to lab/clinical absence, will be informed of this action in person and in writing and may file an appeal by following the FVCC Student Complaint Procedures found online or in the Academic Catalog. Copies of this procedure, the Student Complaint Form, and FVCC Board Policy Chapter VII, Section 60: Code of Student Conduct and Student Complaints may be obtained from the Dean of Students or online at http://www.fvcc.edu/current-students/student-resources/student-policies.html.

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4.11 Grading A grade of “C” or higher is required for ALL non-nursing courses.

Each nursing course can only be attempted once and must be passed with a grade of at least a “C+” (78%) for the student to continue in the program. If any final nursing course grade is less than a “C+” (78%) the student must withdraw from the Nursing Program. A grade of C (77% or below) will not be accepted in nursing courses. In addition, students who are not maintaining a 78% in classroom work may be removed or not allowed to participate in the clinical portion of a course due to patient safety concerns.

If a course has a lab/clinical component, students must successfully complete both the classroom and lab/clinical portions in order to pass the course.

A student will not be placed in capstone precepted experiences in the final semester until passing grades in all previous courses are verified by nursing course faculty. This includes both lecture and clinical. Students unable to complete the capstone precepted experiences will not successfully complete the program. Anytime a student’s grade in a course falls below a C+( 78 %) on assignments (tests, quizzes, written assignments, etc.) the faculty and student may complete an academic action plan that will include remediation of information needed to satisfactorily maintain a 78% in the course. An instructor or advisor may hold individual conferences with a student at any time to discuss student academic or clinical progress.

The following scale is used in all of the FVCC Nursing courses:

A 93 - 100 A- 90 - 92 B+ 87 - 89 B 83 - 86 B- 80 - 82 C+ 78 - 79 C 73 - 77 C- 70 - 72 D+ 67 - 69 D 63 - 66 D- 60 - 62 F 59 or below

(grades will be rounded to the nearest whole number, i.e. 77.4 will be a 77 and a 77.5 will be a 78) Academic Integrity

Cheating, plagiarism, providing false information, forgery, facilitating dishonesty or unethical behavior in others or other forms of academic dishonesty on any assignment, report, quiz, exam or clinical documentation may result in 0 (zero) points being awarded for that event and is considered gross misconduct and may be grounds for suspension from the program. Please review the Student Conduct section in the FVCC catalog and read article in Appendix A addressing Academic Dishonesty.

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Students who are involuntarily suspended or dismissed from the Nursing Program due to grades and wish to petition for re-entry into the Nursing Program must follow the FVCC Student Complaint Procedures found online or in the Academic Catalog. Copies of this procedure, the Student Complaint Form, and FVCC Board Policy Chapter VII, Section 60: Code of Student Conduct and Student Complaints may be obtained from the Dean of Students or online at http://www.fvcc.edu/current-students/student-resources/student-policies.html. 5. STANDARDS OF BEHAVIOR 5.1 General Standards If a nursing student fails to comply with the terms of the Nursing Student Handbook or Code of Conduct for Nurses, the student may be subject to corrective action, which may include, but may not be limited to, counseling, additional course work/clinical hours, suspension and/or possible dismissal from the Nursing Program. A confidential record of corrective action is kept in the Nursing Program student file. Students are expected to adhere to the Montana Code of Conduct for Nurses, rule ARM 24.159.2301 (see Appendix C). If investigation finds there is a failure to adhere to this code of conduct it may be grounds for suspension or dismissal from the program if conduct violations occur while enrolled in any FVCC nursing program.

Professional behavior in oral, written, and non-verbal communication is expected at all times with peers, staff, and others, in all college and community settings. You are now considered a health professional 24/7, held to professional standards by the program and larger community!

Students are expected to treat fellow students, faculty, and clinical staff with respect at all times.

Students should attempt to solve/resolve problems with the concerned individuals. If a student has an unresolved problem or has questions or concerns about specific

courses or program requirements, the student is expected to follow the appropriate line of communication in his or her attempt to resolve the issue. The appropriate line of communication within the Nursing Program is as follows: Involved student→faculty→advisor→Nursing Program Director→ FVCC Dean of Students.

In the event that the line of communication is not followed, unresolved problems will be directed back to the appropriate person for resolution.

The student is encouraged to inform the nursing faculty member/advisor of circumstances that may affect academic/clinical performance before it becomes a problem.

Individuals are encouraged to resolve personal issues and/or conflicts with others outside of the classroom/clinical setting. The student should discuss these issues with an appropriate advisor or counselor if in need of advice on how to approach the situation.

Your knowledge and experience is important and respected. Showing respect for others questions and remarks is a sign of professional behavior and is demonstrated by allowing others to engage in discussions in the classroom, lab and clinical settings.

Please save personal conversations for outside of class so as to not disrupt others’ learning in the classroom.

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Questions regarding assignments should be clarified at the time the assignment is made with the faculty member/designee teaching the course.

Students are expected to keep personal information private. In accordance with HIPAA and FERPA guidelines, the nursing faculty will not violate student confidentiality. Details of individual student circumstances will not be shared with other students and only shared with those who have a need to know.

Students are expected to maintain confidentiality regarding other students performance in lab or clinical.

Students are expected to keep lab activities confidential. Sharing of lab simulations or skills testing is comparable to sharing test information and will be grounds for disciplinary action.

Each student is responsible for keeping a record of grades in individual courses. Personal use of cellular phones/electronic devices is prohibited in class unless

authorized by the instructor. Students who have a legitimate need for a cellular phone/electronic device should discuss this need with the course instructor.

Use of cellular phones/electronic devices by students in lab/clinical sites is prohibited unless approved by the faculty/instructor for the course. Policies will be established by individual faculty and will follow clinical facility policies.

In order to protect everyone’s privacy, photos of student activities may only be taken by individuals approved by the Nursing Program Director or FVCC Administration.

Students are prohibited from using cellphones to take pictures in the classroom, lab or clinical sites.

Students must wear an FVCC Nursing Program nametag when representing themselves as an FVCC nursing student at activities directly related to the nursing courses in which the student is currently enrolled.

5.2 Laboratory/Clinical Behavior Students are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner while functioning in the role of an FVCC nursing student. The goal of lab/clinical experiences within FVCC’s Nursing Program is to provide the student with an opportunity to learn, gain experience, and improve nursing practice. The utmost goal, however, is to provide safe patient care. The lab/clinical faculty member has a legal duty to protect the patient from unsafe nursing care provided by students. Students must follow accepted nursing standards and specific facility policies. Students must continuously demonstrate appropriate clinical judgment and the ability to provide safe nursing care in order to participate in clinical educational experiences.

Student lab/clinical standards include but are not limited to the following:

Personal belongings (wallets, purses, books, etc.) should not be brought to the lab/clinical

area as there is usually no secure place to keep them; coats are to be hung in the areas provided on each unit for nursing staff. Items brought to the lab/clinical area are the student’s responsibility.

Gum chewing and tobacco usage are not allowed on the nursing units. Eating and drinking at the nurses’ stations are prohibited by OSHA standards. Food/drink is prohibited in nursing lab areas unless prior permission has been obtained. Disposable cups are available for water if needed.

Appropriate dress, equipment, and nametag are required whenever the student is in a lab/clinical setting. FVCC uniforms and nametags are not to be worn outside of the lab/clinical setting, unless directed otherwise. Students may also be provided with an identity badge at some facilities for security purposes. Both the FVCC name tag and

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identity badge will need to be worn in facilities that require an identity badge. Failure to wear identity badges may result in a missed lab/clinical day and may lead to suspension from the program (see attendance policy).

Students are allowed one 30-minute break for each shift worked in the clinical setting. Breaks are to be taken off the nursing units but on facility grounds in designated eating areas and must be approved by your instructor and primary nurse.

Students are expected to remain on facility grounds for the assigned clinical time. Confidentiality will be maintained at all times. This includes student, faculty, staff and patient confidentiality in lab areas as well as clinical sites. If using paper charts, patient charts may not be taken off the nursing units. If the nurses’

station is crowded, contact the primary nurse of the patient and request to take the chart to the conference room, and leave a note in the chart holder stating where the chart is and who has it.

NO part of the chart may be copied- this is a HIPAA violation. Students may not answer phones at the nurse’s station, take messages, or receive orders

for patient care. When leaving the nursing unit for any reason, please inform the primary nurse. If

accompanying a patient to a procedure or test, the student must notify the instructor. Students will not be solely responsible for a patient while accompanying them off the unit and will not substitute for hospital staff for transport. Students may not accompany patients outside the institution alone.

Upon the completion of the shift, the student will give a detailed written and/or verbal report of care given to the primary nurse.

On each assigned unit, be familiar with the location of the crash cart and the procedures for emergency codes.

Discuss with instructor or preceptor all medications to be given, procedures to be performed, and approval of charting.

The student will inform the instructor of any mistakes or other incidents as quickly as possible.

Each clinical day prior to report, the student will review the patient’s chart for any changes or new orders and make appropriate changes on the plan of care.

The student will introduce him/herself to the primary nurse before leaving report; the student will inform the primary nurse of his/her schedule, and what he/she will and will not be doing for the assigned patient.

On all assigned patients, the student may be responsible for performing care they have successfully demonstrated and have been approved by the instructor. Students are to report questionable or abnormal findings promptly to the instructor and primary nurse.

If student behavior, or actual and/or potential actions or inaction on the part of the student, is deemed to be a safety risk for a patient/patient/resident, the student may be removed from the lab/clinical area and may not be allowed to return until a Nursing Program director and faculty panel reviews the situation. The Nursing Program faculty panel will determine an appropriate Corrective Action Plan which may include suspension and/or dismissal from the Nursing Program and potentially result in failing grades in all nursing courses. Students who are suspended/or dismissed from the Nursing Program due to inability to demonstrate clinical judgment and/or safe care and wish to petition for re-entry into the Nursing Program must follow the FVCC Student Complaint Procedures found online or in the Academic Catalog. Copies of this procedure, the Student Complaint Form, and FVCC Board Policy Chapter VII, Section 60: Code of Student Conduct and Student Complaints may be obtained from the

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Dean of Students or online at http://www.fvcc.edu/current-students/student-resources/student-policies.html. 5.3 Confidentiality Patient/facility information can be used only for achievement of FVCC’s Nursing Program goals and objectives and must be held in strict confidence. Any other use/disclosure of patient’s personal information and/or protected health information or confidential matters within a facility is in violation of FVCC’s policy, the Nurse’s Code of Ethics, the Nurse Practice Act, Federal HIPAA law and state laws. Violation of patient privacy rights or revealing confidential information may result in suspension and/or dismissal from the nursing program. In addition, the student may be held individually responsible for any criminal and/or civil judgments resulting from unauthorized disclosure of protected information.

HIPAA: Students receive specific training regarding privacy and confidentiality, including all applicable requirements mandated by state law and the Federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Students are required to sign a statement acknowledging their responsibilities in protecting patient privacy rights and confidentiality. Students may be required to re-sign a statement at each of the clinical sites as part of credentialing procedures for those particular facilities. Social Networking: Social networking sites can be an effective way to keep in touch with colleagues. Social Media such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Wikipedia, and Flickr have grown in popularity and application, allowing users to post content and share with virtually anyone. Organizations, including healthcare institutions, are rapidly integrating the use of Social Media into their education, outreach and marketing strategies. While this creates new opportunities for communication and collaboration, it also creates vulnerabilities for individuals and institutions, especially those involved in the healthcare environment. Depending on the privacy settings, literally anyone with access to the internet can see individual profiles, photos, and posted opinions, and can share them anywhere. The potential impact on professional careers and professions is an important consideration. (NCSBN White paper: A Nurse’s guide to use of social media,2011)

In order to protect the privacy and confidentiality of students, faculty, instructors, patients and families, the use of cellphones for picture taking is expressly prohibited in classroom, lab or clinical sites. FVCC reserves the right to approve any pictures taken on the campus.

Please review the information found in Appendix B of this handbook regarding the use of social networking as a student and health professional. It is imperative that each student understand the potential negative repercussions that could occur when postings to social networking violates patient, faculty or other student confidentiality or privacy.

Students who are suspended or withdrawn from the Nursing Program due to disclosure of private information/protected health information and wish to petition for re-entry into the Nursing Program, must follow the FVCC Student Complaint Procedures found online or in the Academic Catalog. Copies of this procedure, the Student Complaint Form, and FVCC Board Policy Chapter VII, Section 60: Code of Student Conduct and Student Complaints may be obtained from the Dean of Students or online at http://www.fvcc.edu/current-students/student-resources/student-policies.html.

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5.4 Appearance Requirements for grooming and appearance in the lab/clinical setting are based on safety, infection control, and the need to present a professional appearance. Whenever a student is in a lab/clinical area, the student must adhere to the following requirements:

In most lab/clinical settings, nursing students should be visually distinguishable from regular facility staff; therefore, the designated uniform top may not be covered with a sweater, jacket, etc. Students who desire extra warmth may wear a color coordinating shirt underneath the uniform top. No jeans, short skirts, bare midriffs, etc. are allowed. Each course’s clinical syllabus details uniform requirements for each course. Refer to the syllabus/instructor for specific uniform guidelines.

Uniforms should be freshly laundered, wrinkle free, and in good condition. Shoes/shoelaces should be clean. Uniforms (including shoes) should only be worn in the lab or clinical setting unless faculty advises otherwise.

Expected personal hygiene includes clean breath, clean fingernails, daily shampoo/bathing, and use of deodorant.

Long fingernails are not allowed. Artificial nails of any length are not allowed. Nail polish is not allowed.

Long hair should be pulled back off of the collar. Facial hair should be neat and trimmed. Please No fragrances (perfumes, essential oils, aftershaves, perfumed lotions etc) as they

may be offensive to the patients/residents/ staff or other students. Smokers should be aware that the smell of smoke lingers on their breath/clothing and they

should take measures to assure that no offensive smoke odors are present. Students are encouraged to consider smoking cessation.

FVCC’s Smoking and Tobacco Free Policy, Approved: April 26, 2010 and revised October 22, 2012, prohibits smoking of any substance or usage of chewing and other forms of tobacco and similar substances on FVCC Campus. There are no designated smoking or tobacco use areas on the FVCC campus.

“The College is committed to complying with the Montana Clean Indoor Air Act, and further supports a healthy, comfortable and productive work environment for all students, employees and visitors to the campus. Therefore, FVCC prohibits any form of smoking including the use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) or any form of tobacco usage in all of its campus facilities as well as at all points of entrance and exit from its facilities, including all walkways and parking lots. Smoking or tobacco usage is only allowed inside designated enclosures or designated tobacco usage areas. Failure to comply will result in disciplinary action as stipulated by College Policy for student infractions and the appropriate disciplinary process as set forth in collective bargaining agreements or Board of Trustees policy for faculty and staff.” FVCC Catalog 2015

Students are expected to respect and adhere to smoking policies at clinical sites. Often

sites have smoke free campus policies. Individuals are expected to keep make-up, hairstyles and clothing to a modest fashion in

the lab and clinical sites. Tattoos may not be visible to patients or facility staff per facilities policy. Jewelry in the clinical setting is limited to the following items:

Wedding/engagement ring(s) One short necklace Jewelry associated with piercing on any visible part of the body is limited to one post per ear lobe. No other items (including items worn in the tongue) are allowed.

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Some clinical sites may have dress codes unique for that site. Faculty will communicate to students the dress code for these sites before beginning the clinical hours. Students will be expected to be appropriately attired on the first and all subsequent days.

6. CORRECTIVE ACTION AND APPEAL POLICY

6.1 Student Representation At the beginning of each semester, a student from the program will be selected by their peers to serve as student representative for participation in policy and program input. Student issues will be placed on the agenda for monthly faculty meetings, and the student representative is expected to attend that meeting. This process serves as a standing agenda item for two-way communication. Individual student concerns with individual faculty are required to be taken to the individual faculty by the student who has the concern.

6.2 Corrective Action

Students are expected to follow the Montana Code of Conduct for Nurses, rule ARM 24.159.2301 (see Appendix C), and may be suspended and/or dismissed from the program if conduct violations occur while enrolled in any of the FVCC nursing programs. Incidence of Criminal behavior will be reported to the proper authorities. If a nursing student fails to comply with the terms of the Nursing Student Handbook, the student may be subject to corrective action, which may include, but may not be limited to, counseling, additional course work/clinical hours, suspension and or dismissal from the Nursing Program. A confidential record of corrective action is kept by the Nursing Program student file. All instances of documented Nursing Program corrective counseling will accumulate throughout the student’s enrollment in FVCC’s nursing program. The severity of the

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occurrences will determine the action to be taken. A single severe incident may result in dismissal from the Nursing Program in which the student is enrolled and result in failure of all nursing courses. Multiple occurrences of corrective action may also result in suspension and/or dismissal from the program after discussion with Nursing Program director and Dean of Students. Students who are suspended and/or dismissed from the Nursing Program due to corrective action and wish to petition for re-entry into the Nursing Program must follow the FVCC Student Complaint Procedures found online or in the Academic Catalog. Copies of this procedure, the Student Complaint Form, and FVCC Board Policy Chapter VII, Section 60: Code of Student Conduct and Student Complaints may be obtained from the Dean of Students or online at http://www.fvcc.edu/current-students/student-resources/student-policies.html.

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Sample Action Plan

Flathead Valley Community College Nursing Program

Action Plan

Date___________________________

Academic_______________ Corrective___________

Statement of the Problem: (Describe behaviors and objectives that need to be addressed)

Plan: (describe behaviors, objectives, and time frame for correction)

Consequences of action plan:

Student Comments:

Resolution/Outcome:

Faculty Signature: ___________________________________________Date:____________

Student Signature: __________________________________________ Date: ____________

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6.3 Student Appeals

Students may appeal decisions made by the Nursing Program or any individual Nursing Program faculty member or members. These appeals include, but are not limited to:

Grade appeal • Suspension and or dismissal from the Nursing Program • Request to re-enter the Nursing Program after a voluntary dismissal

General Appeal Process

FLATHEAD VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

STUDENT COMPLAINT PROCEDURES Purpose The purpose of this procedure is to promote the prompt, just, and efficient resolution of student

complaints against College employees. Complaints involving discrimination, sexual harassment, sexual misconduct, or stalking are addressed in FVCC Board Policy Chapter 1, Section 60: Discrimination & Sexual Harassment Policy and the Discrimination Grievance Procedure. Copies of this procedure, the Student Complaint Form, and FVCC Board Policy Chapter VII, Section 60: Code of Student Conduct and Student Complaints may be obtained from the Dean of Students or online at http://www.fvcc.edu/current-students/student-resources/student-policies.html.

The College reserves the right to make changes to this procedure and corresponding policy as

necessary and once those changes are posted online, they are in effect. Students are encouraged to check online at http://www.fvcc.edu/current-students/student-resources/student-policies.html for the updated versions of all policies and procedures.

The term "complaint" shall mean a claim or allegation by a student that a College employee(s):

significantly failed to carry out their professional responsibilities or failed to deal with a student fairly and impartially;

significantly failed to carry out an assigned responsibility or failed to apply college policy fairly and impartially; or

performed an action which impinged on the rights or activities of a student in the legitimate pursuit of the educative process. All student complaints must be filed within thirty (30) calendar days after the complainant knew or reasonably should have known about the complaint. Complaints shall be filed upon the Student Appeals Complaint Form available with the Dean of Students. Informal Complaint Procedure Before a student may file a formal complaint, the student must first attempt to resolve the issue with:

the instructor or Division Chair for academic complaints, or the employee or department supervisor for non-academic complaints.

If the complaint or allegation is against a Division Chair or department supervisor, the student must attempt to resolve the issue with the Dean of Students. A list of Division Chairs and department supervisors is located in the Deans of Students’ office (BH 119).

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Formal Complaint Procedure A complaint under this procedure must commence within thirty (30) business days from the date of the act or omission that caused the complaint, or from the date that the student knew or reasonably should have known of such act or omission. Step 1 To initiate a formal complaint, the student must bring the matter to the Division Chair (for academic complaints), the department supervisor (for non-academic complaints), or the Dean of Students (for complaints against a Division Chair or department supervisor). The respective Division Chair, department supervisor, or Dean of Students will assist the student to complete a complaint form available at http://www.fvcc.edu/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Student-Complaint-Form.docx?61d1e1 which contains the following information:

name of student complainant date(s) of the act(s) or omission(s) that caused the complaint name of the employee involved in the complaint (respondent) summary and explanation of the facts which form the basis of the complaint names of potential witnesses (if applicable) list and attachments of supporting documents description of remedy requested signature of the complainant and date (“initiation date”)

The respective Division Chair, department supervisor, or Dean of Students will schedule and conduct a meeting with the respondent within fifteen (15) business days of the initiation date. The student and the respondent may each bring an advocate to this meeting. The advocate shall not make a presentation or represent the student bringing the complaint or the responding party during the meeting. However, the advocate may confer quietly with their advisee, exchange notes, clarify procedural questions, or suggest questions to their student or employee. The parties should make an effort to resolve the complaint during the meeting. Step 2 If the complaint is not resolved within twenty (20) business days of the initiation date, the student may submit the written complaint to the Dean of Students to request a hearing before the Student Complaint Panel. The Dean of Students will then forward the complaint to the respondent, the Division Chair or department supervisor, and the Chair of the Student Complaint Panel. If the student does not forward the written complaint to the Dean of Students within thirty (30) business days of the initiation date, the complaint will be considered resolved. Within fifteen (15) business days of the date the request for a hearing is received by the Dean of Students, the Student Complaint Panel will hold a hearing on the complaint. The hearing will be conducted pursuant to procedures to be developed in a preliminary meeting attended by, and where procedures are subject to mutual agreement by the Panel Chair, the Division Chair or department supervisor, the respondent, the student complainant, and Dean of Students. For each formal complaint, a five (5) member Student Complaint Panel will be chosen from the available pool, and is usually comprised of at least one student, one faculty member, and one staff member or administrator. Member availability may determine a different composition for the Panel, and in complaints involving sensitive issues, the Dean of Students may choose to assign three administrative/staff members to the Panel.

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The Dean of Students will appoint the non-voting chair of the Panel and will serve in an advisory capacity to assure that College procedures are followed throughout the hearing. The membership of the Panel is selected from an appointed pool of up to 2 students, 4 faculty, and 4 staff/administrative members trained annually by the Dean of Students. Student Government and the Dean of Students will each appoint 1 student (for a total of 2 students) who will each serve a one-year appointment to the Panel pool. The Faculty Senate President will appoint 4 faculty who will serve a two-year, staggered appointment to the Panel pool. The College President will also appoint 4 staff/administrative members who will serve a two-year, staggered appointment to the Panel pool. The purpose of the hearing is to determine findings of fact and recommend either dismissal of the complaint or a specific remedy limited to curing the act or omission for which the complaint was filed. During the course of its deliberation, the Panel may confer with the parties to the complaint and may confer with other individuals at the Panel’s discretion. The Panel will make its decision by majority vote. The Panel Chair will provide its written decision to the Dean of Students within five (5) business days of completion of the hearing. The Dean of Students will review the case within five (5) business days of receipt of the written report and either approve the resolution and forward it to the President or remand the case to the Panel with objections and a suggested alternative resolution. The Panel must, within five (5) business days of receipt of the Dean of Students’ suggested alternative resolution, either accept it or forward its own suggested alternative resolution to the President. The President may accept or reject the Panel’s suggested resolution. Implementation of a specific remedy rests with the President, whose decision is the final campus disposition of the complaint. The President must provide the Panel, the Dean of Students, and the parties, with a rationale for the final campus disposition, should it differ from that suggested by the Panel. The President will send copies of the final decision to all parties involved. At any time during the formal complaint process, the deadlines may be modified due to extenuating circumstances if both the complainant and respondent agree to the extension.

Voluntary Dismissal Students who had previously been accepted into the Nursing program, but voluntarily withdrew from courses due to financial, medical, personal, etc. circumstances may request re-entry into the program. The student must forward a written request to the Nursing Program Director of their intent to request re-entry into the program. If the reason for dismissal is for medical reasons documentation from your health care provider must be provided.

Request to Re-enter the Nursing Program after a Voluntary Dismissal

Students who voluntarily withdraw from the Nursing Program may request consideration for re-entry into the Nursing Program and must follow the procedure outlined below. The student must formally reapply into the program during the next application cycle, and forward a written

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request to the Nursing Program Director. The application and written request must be received by the deadline for the application cycle.

The intent of the process is to help determine the likelihood of success if the student is allowed to return. The following steps are required for consideration of re-instatement: 1. The student must submit documentation that outlines actions the student has taken to

improve his or her ability to meet program and course objectives and/or comply with Nursing Program policies. If the reason for dismissal was for medical reasons, a release to return must be provided by your health care provider.

2. The student must personally meet with a panel consisting of the Nursing Program Director, one Nursing Program faculty, and one Health Science Division faculty, to respond to questions about actions the student has taken to improve his or her ability to meet program and course objectives and/or comply with Nursing Program policies.

3. The Nursing Program Director will send written notification of the panel’s decision to the

student within 14 days of the meeting.

All placements in the FVCC Nursing Program are dependent upon sufficient financial, faculty and clinical resources.

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7. MONTANA LICENSING Licensing is governed by the Montana Board of Nursing (BON). http://mt.gov/dli/bsd/license/bsd_boards/nur_board/board_page.asp

After the Nursing Program coursework has been completed, students are eligible to take the national licensing exam (NCLEX-RN). Successful completion of this exam is required for employment. A graduate may receive a temporary license when they have completed the application to test. This temporary license, along with an Employer Sworn Statement, is required for employment as a graduate nurse, and the graduate is responsible for notifying a prospective employer of their status in this regard. It is the student’s responsibility to contact the FVCC registrar’s office to obtain transcript release forms, and to pay the required fees in order that official transcripts can be sent to the Montana Board of Nursing. 7.1 Registered Nurse The following outlines Registered Nurse licensing information. For specific information on filing an application, individuals will need to obtain the license application from the Board of Nursing which includes a detailed listing of the requirements. Students are responsible for all fees related to application and testing.

1. Application Fee: $100.00

2. Education Requirements: must be a graduate of an approved registered nursing education program that is authorized to prepare persons for licensure as registered nurses.

3. Experience Requirements: None 4. Examination Information: Cost: $200.00 The National Council Licensure Examination

(NCLEX) is given 6 days a week. An applicant for a license to practice as a licensed registered nurse shall pay a fee prescribed by the board to the department at the time the application is submitted. An applicant for a license to practice as a registered nurse is required to pass the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) - National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) exam or another board approved licensing examination. On successfully passing the examination, the board shall issue to the applicant a license to practice as a licensed registered nurse.

Renewal Period: All licenses expire 12/31 of even numbered years and must be renewed by that time. http://bsd.dli.mt.gov/license/bsd_boards/nur_board/board_page.asp

8. FINANCIAL AID INFORMATION Please refer to the most current Flathead Valley Community College catalog for information regarding financial aid and available scholarships.

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FLATHEAD VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE NURSING PROGRAM

HEALTH INSURANCE PORTABILITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT Statement

The students of Flathead Valley Community College Nursing Program are instructed on the 1996 HIPAA legislation during orientation to the Nursing Program. After having this instruction, each student is requested to sign a statement of compliance to this law. A copy of the signed statement will be provided to all facilities students are assigned to for clinical experiences. Students will also participate in any HIPAA presentation of the individual facilities in order for compliance to be validated if necessary. Failure to sign the statement will cause the student to be ineligible to attend clinical experiences and result in suspension from the Nursing Program. I_______________________________________________________, have received education about HIPAA (1996). I understand and will comply with its regulations for patient confidentiality as outlined by the law. Date___________________

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FLATHEAD VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE NURSING PROGRAM

HEALTH INSURANCE PORTABILITY ACCOUNTABILITY ACT Statement

The students of Flathead Valley Community College Nursing Program are instructed on the 1996 HIPAA legislation during orientation to the Nursing Program. After having this instruction, each student is requested to sign a statement of compliance to this law. A copy of the signed statement will be provided to all facilities students are assigned to for clinical experiences. Students will also participate in any HIPAA presentation of the individual facilities in order for compliance to be validated if necessary. Failure to sign the statement will cause the student to be ineligible to attend clinical experiences and result in suspension from the Nursing Program. I_______________________________________________________, have received education about HIPAA (1996). I understand and will comply with its regulations for patient confidentiality as outlined by the law. DATE________________________

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FLATHEAD VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

NURSING PROGRAM

Acknowledgement Form I have read and understand the policies and guidelines set forth in the 2017 FVCC Nursing Program Student Handbook and agree to abide by them. Students who fail to abide by the policies and guidelines will be subject to corrective action and may be suspended from the program. Dated on the _______ day of _______________________, 20_____. _______________________________________________________ STUDENT (Signature) _______________________________________________________ Printed Name _______________________________________________________ Nursing Program Director (Signature)

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FLATHEAD VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE NURSING PROGRAM

Acknowledgement Form

I have read and understand the policies and guidelines set forth in the 2017 FVCC Nursing Program Student Handbook and agree to abide by them. Students who fail to abide by the policies and guidelines will be subject to corrective action and may be suspended from the program. Dated on the _______ day of _______________________, 20_____. _______________________________________________________ STUDENT (Signature) (Print/Type Clearly) _______________________________________________________ Printed Name _______________________________________________________ Nursing Program Director (Signature)

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APPENDIX A

It’s midnight and Caitlin’s nutrition paper is due tomorrow at 8:00 am. She hasn’t had time to

read the chapter which pertains to the topic, much less do the research required to write a scholarly paper. She connects to the World Wide Web, locates a paper written on the same topic by a student at a different university, downloads the paper and hands it in with her name on the cover page.

Matthew’s clinical instructor won’t allow him to care for his assigned patient if his care plan isn’t

completed when he arrives at the hospital at 6:30 am. At 2:00 am he sends a text message to his friend asking if he can use the friend’s completed care plan as a guide. Matthew copies the friend’s care plan and submits it as his own.

According to college policy, all seniors need to have their academic advisor’s signature on their

graduation audit. Josh had a family emergency and missed his appointment with his advisor. The deadline for the signed graduation audit is today. Josh forges his advisor’s signature and adds RN after the name.

These vignettes exemplify violations of academic integrity in American colleges and

universities today. All institutions of higher education include definitions of academic integrity and the consequences of academic integrity policy violations in their catalogs and handbooks. According to the Carroll College (Helena, Montana) policy, academic integrity violations include:

1) “Acts of dishonesty, including but not limited to the following:

a. Cheating, plagiarism, or other forms of academic dishonesty. b. Furnishing false information to any College official, faculty member or office. c. Forgery, alteration, or misuse of any College document, record or instrument of

identification.” (Carroll College Handbook, 2010, pg. 18, used with permission).

The College handbook goes on to advise students that violations of this policy can result in suspension from the college or other disciplinary action and that being ignorant of the policy is not an excuse for academic dishonesty (Carroll College Handbook, 2010). Additionally, most course syllabi include a section defining plagiarism as representing someone else’s work as your own, for example, not following APA guidelines for citation and referencing sources.

Despite specific definitions of violations of academic integrity and clear descriptions of potential

academic consequences, acts of academic dishonesty appear to be common among nursing students. Kolanko, Clark, Heinrich, Olive, Serembus, and Sifford (2006) examined the challenges (including academic dishonesty) facing nursing faculty and indicated that “as many as 70 to 95 percent of students have been reported to have engaged in such practices” (p. 35). This statistic is worrisome from a variety of perspectives including a true concern for the safety of the public. Students who engage in academic dishonesty are not engaged in the work of learning. Cutting and pasting from the World Wide Web, copying someone else’s work, and/ or cheating on a test are actions which bypass any gain in knowledge or understanding of material. This “illusion of

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knowledge” does not bode well for meeting the standards of care and expectations of the nursing profession related to the delivery of safe and high quality patient care.

There are diverse reasons why students violate academic integrity policies. Many students

may be stressed and feel pressured to maintain academic standing during a time of limited enrollment opportunities in nursing programs in the United States. Other students may be perfectionists and are unable to tolerate the possibility of receiving a grade lower than an “A.” It may be that there are students who are not interested in doing the required work. A small percent of students truly don’t understand that what they are doing is wrong. And, while none of these reasons justifies academic dishonesty, perhaps the most distressing to hear from a nursing student is that “everyone is cheating.”

Whatever the reason, students who engage in acts of academic dishonesty do more than compromise the culture of safety which defines the nursing profession. They also erode the foundation of trust between student and student, faculty and student and, the nursing profession and the public. If a student chooses to violate academic integrity, that student’s behavior is interpreted as something much larger than simply cheating on an assignment or test. Fellow students who have put in the time and effort to study or prepare assignments may resent both their student colleagues who made decisions to ignore the college policies and their professors who either were ignorant of or chose to ignore the student dishonesty. Student resentment among peers and towards faculty contributes to an unhealthy academic environment and thus, interferes with learning.

The old adage that trust takes a life time to build and just one moment to destroy could not be more apropos than in the realm of nursing education. The lingering sense of distrust between a faculty member and a student who has chosen to violate an academic integrity policy is difficult to mitigate and can color future impressions of the student’s work. The faculty member may think “if a student is willing to cut corners on an assignment, can I trust them not to cut corners when in a clinical setting?” In the Department of Nursing at Carroll College, a first time student academic integrity policy violation may be used as a teaching opportunity. Subsequent violations are seen as definite indicators that the student has not rightfully earned a passing grade in a particular course and may not be trustworthy. The student may be dis-enrolled from the nursing program. This difficult decision is never made lightly and always with a great deal of thoughtful discussion with nursing faculty and college administration.

Student nurses are held to the same ethical standards as licensed nurses. Those standards

are outlined in the American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics and are designed to guide the behaviors and decisions of licensed nurses. The ANA Code of Ethics specifies the notion of personal integrity, integration of professional and personal identifies, and wholeness of character (2001). In other words, student behaviors in and out of the clinical setting, while working on an assignment, while preparing for tests and exams, prior to graduation, and before passing a licensure exam are expected to reflect the values of the nursing profession. Upholding the ANA Code of Ethics in every aspect of a student nurse role is essential to maintaining the high degree of trust that the American public places in the nursing profession.

Fortunately, there are students who do embrace this ethical responsibility and are diligent in their adherence to academic integrity policies. Recently, students at Carroll College responded in the following way when asked about their plan for upholding academic integrity in an Evidence Based Practice (Research Methods) class:

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Academic integrity is vital for nurses to possess in their everyday life. Honesty and integrity are important for all scholastic careers, especially nursing. I plan to uphold my academic integrity by adequately citing all sources I use and also by doing my own work throughout the course. I believe that cheating is not acceptable in every aspect of life and I will live up to my commitment to never do so. I will never plagiarize and will pursue everything I do with honesty and integrity. I will work hard for everything I attempt. Also, I will not cheat and/or copy other students work. I will also do my best to learn the most possible and complete scholarly work. I will give myself adequate time to work on assignments this semester and work carefully to document all sources used properly, to avoid unintentional plagiarism. I’ll also maintain my own ethical standards by never copying anyone else’s work. I take great pride in my education and work hard! Three cheers for students who take pride in doing their own work. They exemplify a commitment to keeping patients safe and safeguarding the trust the public places in nurses. They are the future “keepers of the nursing profession.”

REFERENCES

American Nurses Association. (2001). Retrieved fromhttp://www.nursingworld.org/MainMenuCategories/EthicsStandards/CodeofEthicsforNurses/C ode -ofEthics.aspx

Kolanko, K., Clark, C., Heinrich, K., Olive, D., Serembus, J., & Sifford, K.S. (2006). Academic Dishonesty, Bullying, Incivility, and Violence: Difficult Challenges Facing Nurse Educators. Nursing Education Perspectives, 27(1), 34-43. Reprinted Per Permission from StuNurs.com

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APPENDIX B

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APPENDIX C

24.159.2301 CONDUCT OF NURSES (1) Professional conduct for nurses is behavior including acts, knowledge, and practices, which

through professional experience, has become established by practicing nurses as conduct which is reasonably necessary for the protection of the public interests.

(a) While working as a nurse, the nurse will identify himself or herself with a name badge disclosing, at a minimum, first name, first initial of last name, and license type. The identification badge will be written in a standard bold face font with a font size of no less than 18 point.

(b) All nurses shall notify the board office of any change in address within ten days of the change. Failure to notify the board of an address change may result in a fine.

(c) All nurses are required to report unprofessional conduct of nurses to the board. The board does not accept anonymous complaints.

(2) Unprofessional conduct, for purposes of defining 37-1-307, MCA, in addition to unprofessional conduct listed at 37-1-316, MCA, the following being unique, is determined by the board to mean behavior (acts, omissions, knowledge, and practices) which fails to conform to the accepted standards of the nursing profession and which could jeopardize the health and welfare of the people and shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

(a) failing to utilize appropriate judgment in administering safe nursing practice based upon the level of nursing for which the individual is licensed;

(b) failing to exercise technical competence in carrying out nursing care; (c) failing to follow policies or procedures defined in the practice situation to safeguard patient

care; (d) failing to safeguard the patient's dignity and right to privacy; (e) verbally or physically abusing patients; (f) performing procedures beyond the authorized scope of the level of nursing and/or health care

for which the individual is licensed as defined by rules; (g) altering and/or manipulating drug supplies, narcotics, or patients' records; (h) falsifying patients' records, intentionally charting incorrectly or failing to chart; (i) diversion of a medication for any purpose; (j) violating state or federal laws relative to drugs; (k) intentionally committing any act that adversely affects the physical or psychosocial welfare of

the patient; (l) delegating nursing care, functions, tasks and/or responsibilities to others contrary to the

Montana laws and rules governing nursing and/or to the detriment of patient safety; (m) failing to exercise appropriate supervision over persons who are practicing under the

supervision of the licensed professional; (n) leaving a nursing assignment without properly notifying appropriate personnel; (o) practicing professional or practical nursing as a registered or practical nurse in this state

without a current active Montana license or permit; (p) failing to report to the board information known to the individual regarding any possible

violation of the statutes or rules relating to nursing; (q) a license or certificate in a related health care discipline in Montana, another state or any

jurisdiction denied, revoked, suspended, placed on probation or voluntarily surrendered for any reason that would constitute a basis for disciplinary action in this state;

(r) failing to comply with the contract provisions of the nurses' assistance program; (s) refusing to sign for or accept a certified mailing from the board office; or (t) failing to participate and cooperate in a Department of Labor and Industry investigation;

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(u) failing to report to the board office within 30 days of the date of the final judgment, order, or agency action, any malpractice, professional misconduct, criminal, or disciplinary action in which the nurse or the nurse's employer, on account of the nurse's conduct, is a named party; and

(v) violating a state or federal statute while performing or attempting to perform the practice of nursing.

History: 37-1-319, 37-8-202, MCA; IMP, 37-1-316, 37-1-319, 37-8-202, MCA; NEW, 1979 MAR p. 1247, Eff. 10/12/79; TRANS, from Dept. of Prof. & Occup. Lic., Ch. 274, L. 1981, Eff. 7/1/81; AMD, 1985 MAR p. 1556, Eff. 10/18/85; AMD, 1988 MAR p. 2720, Eff. 12/23/88; AMD, 1994 MAR p. 1424, Eff. 5/27/94; AMD, 1996 MAR p. 418, Eff. 2/9/96; AMD, 1996 MAR p. 1489, Eff. 6/7/96; AMD, 1997 MAR p. 626, Eff. 4/8/97; AMD, 2000 MAR p. 2681, Eff. 10/6/00; AMD, 2002 MAR p. 3399, Eff. 12/13/02; AMD, 2005 MAR p. 1686, Eff. 9/9/05; TRANS, from Commerce, & AMD, 2006 MAR p. 2035, Eff. 8/25/06; AMD, 2010 MAR p. 2651, Eff. 11/13/10.