mercy school of nursing charlotte, nc - atrium health€¦ · 2014-2015 mercy school of nursing...

2014-2015 Mercy School of Nursing Handbook | 1

One2014-2015 HANDBOOK

Mercy School of NursingCharlotte, NC

CarolinasHealthCare.org/MSON

I | 2014-2015 Mercy School of Nursing Handbook

2014-2015 HandbookMercy School of NursingCharlotte, North Carolina

Student Handbook

Standards of Excellence ............................................................................................

Respect ..............................................................................................................

Representing the System .................................................................................

Communication ................................................................................................

Dealing with Difficult Situations or Complaints .............................................

Teambuilding ....................................................................................................

Guidelines for Professional Behavior .......................................................................

Ethical Standards ..............................................................................................

Legal Standards ................................................................................................

Accountability ...................................................................................................

Standards of Professional Nursing Practice ...................................................

Advocacy ...........................................................................................................

Confidentiality ..................................................................................................

Lifelong, Self-directed Learning ......................................................................

Dress Code ................................................................................................................

Carolinas HealthCare System Standards of Appearance Examples - Clinical Attire ...

Carolinas HealthCare System Standards of Appearance Examples - Business Attire

MSON Academic Success Plan ................................................................................

MSON Admission and Progression Related to Carolinas HealthCare System ....

Policy on Rehire Status and Criminal Background/Fingerprint Checks

Criminal Background .......................................................................................

MSON Request for Accommodation .......................................................................

Student Request for Accommodation .....................................................................

Essential Functions of a Mercy Nursing Student ....................................................

Professional Certification ..........................................................................................

Agreement to Verify Color Assessments .................................................................

MSON Complaint Procedure ...................................................................................

Hearing and Appeals Procedure ..............................................................................

Fundraising Activities ................................................................................................

National Student Nurses’ Association, Inc. Code of Academic and Clinical Conduct

A Code for Nursing Students ..........................................................................

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Challenge Procedure .......................................................................................

Skills Validation .................................................................................................

Testing Guidelines ............................................................................................

Faculty Responsibilities ...............................................................................

Challenge Questions ...................................................................................

Peer Tutoring ................................................................................................

Peer Tutoring .............................................................................................................

Confidentiality Statement .........................................................................................

HIPAA Privacy Student Sanctions and Corrective Actions .....................................

Mercy School of Nursing Curriculum Framework ...................................................

Relationship Process ........................................................................................

Care Management ...........................................................................................

Therapeutic Nursing Interventions .................................................................

Professional Behavior .......................................................................................

Clinical Performance Evaluation ...............................................................................

Administration of Medications .................................................................................

Scope of Practice for Student Nurses ......................................................................

Learning Resource Center Circulation Policy ..........................................................

Audiovisual Materials .......................................................................................

Books .................................................................................................................

Computer Software ..........................................................................................

Bylaws of the Student Government Association (SGA) ..........................................

Title and Function ............................................................................................

Membership ......................................................................................................

Advisor ..............................................................................................................

Offices and Duties of Office ............................................................................

Nominations .....................................................................................................

Elections ............................................................................................................

Meetings ...........................................................................................................

Amendments ....................................................................................................

Standing Committee(s) ....................................................................................

General Guidelines for Student Organizations .......................................................

Emergency Action Plan for Mercy School of Nursing ............................................

Hazardous Materials Plan ..........................................................................................

Management of Hazardous Chemicals ..........................................................

Managements of Infectious Waste .................................................................

6 | 2014-2015 Mercy School of Nursing Handbook

Carolinas HealthCare SystemStandards of Excellence

(A) Respect1. Knock before entering someone’s room or office.2. Make eye contact.3. Introduce yourself to others and be helpful. Give your name and position

title. Use statements, such as, “how may I help you?”, “please” and “thank you.”

4. When speaking with someone, use the individual’s formal name (e.g., Dr., Mr., Mrs., Ms.).

5. Listen actively to questions and comments.6. Respond to requests or call lights in a timely fashion.7. Keep individuals informed and allow an opportunity for questions prior to

proceeding.8. Take the time to learn about the culture and differences of your customers;

demonstrate sensitivity and understanding.9. Maintain your customer’s dignity by controlling your voice volume, choosing

meaningful words and using a respectful, friendly tone of voice.10. When approached by a customer, put aside work promptly or offer

explanations if you cannot.11. Keep patient and employee information confidential by following privacy

standards and the System of Integrity.

Patient Specific12. Give the patient your full attention; avoid engaging in conversations with

other staff while with a patient.13. When interacting with a patient, provide privacy.14. Place all lights, telephone and other personal items within easy reach of

the patient.15. When entering a patient’s room, if patient is alert, ask what you may do for

them When leaving the room, ask the patient if they prefer the door opened or closed.

(B) Representing the System1. Greet others immediately and make eye contact. Speak first with a friendly

greeting.2. Provide clear directions.3. If there is going to be a delay, keep individuals informed of the reasons for

the delay in a positive manner.4. Demonstrate an attitude of helpfulness.5. Wear your name badge on the lapel or chest level or above so name and

department are visible.6. Dress in accordance with the Carolinas HealthCare System Standards of

Appearance.7. Avoid being loud or boisterous in the presence of customers.8. Take personal responsibility to resolve problems quickly and efficiently.9. When a customer presents a problem, create a win/win outcome by


working with the customer to solve the problem, showing concern for both the customer and Carolinas HealthCare System.

10. Take initiative to maintain a clean, organized environment.

(C) CommunicationFace-to-Face

1. Communicate verbally in a clear and concise manner.2. Make eye contact and exhibit open body language.3. Make certain people assuming your responsibilities are well informed.4. Conduct personal discussions only in a private area.5. Share confidential patient or other information only on a need to know basis

and in private.6. Focus full attention on the speaker.7. Provide affirmations and reflect understanding of what is said.8. Demonstrate empathy.9. Show patience and avoid interrupting.

Telephone1. Be courteous at all times.2. Answer the telephone within three rings.3. When placing and answering calls, identify your department and name

(e.g., “Nursing Administration, Jane Smith.”)4. Use a pleasant tone of voice.5. Use the caller’s name, when known.6. Avoid eating, drinking or chewing gum while on the phone.7. If you need to put someone on hold, use the “hold” feature. Ask the caller

if they will please hold. Give a progress report every 30 - 60 seconds and thank the caller for holding.

8. When transferring calls, explain to the caller what is being done and describe the nature of the call to the individual to whom the call is transferred. Provide the caller the name and extension of the party to whom the call will be transferred.

9. When taking a message, provide the caller with an approximate time the call may be returned. Ensure the message includes date, name, message, time, phone number and signature. Clearly repeat the information to show you understand it.

10. Return messages within 24 hours.11. Acknowledge anyone who may walk up while on the phone by making eye

contact and nodding.

Written Communication/Email1. Be cautious about sending emails/memos that may be taken out of

context or contain sensitive or confidential information.2. Respond in a timely manner to requests for information or decisions.3. Do not use email as a replacement for face-to-face conversation.4. Send email messages with descriptive subject lines.5. State expectations clearly and precisely by writing the purpose of the

message.


6. Keep messages and formatting simple and short to avoid confusion and wasted time.

7. Avoid using all capital letters and excessive bolding or underlining.8. Any background graphics must comply with the Carolinas HealthCare

System Acceptable Use Policy.9. Write concisely and in a factual style, using short paragraphs and avoiding

slang.10. Carefully review every written document and use spellcheck before

sending or distributing.11. Before responding to “problematic” emails, take time to think through your

response.

(D) Dealing with Difficult Situations or Complaints1. Remain calm and listen with empathy when someone complains.2. Avoid becoming defensive.3. Demonstrate an understanding of problems or concerns without agreeing

or taking sides. Focus on the problem and thank the individual for bringing it to your attention.

4. Ensure that you understand what the individual wants. Reflect what you hearbeing said (e.g., “so what you need is ...”)

5. Solve the problem. If it is something you cannot resolve, find someone who can help. Stay with the customer problem until it has been handed off to an accountable person.

6. Communicate with the person about what will be done to correct the problem. Follow up to ensure satisfaction.

(E) Teambuilding1. Work together with other employees, physicians, patients’ families and

representatives from other organizations to create and maintain a spirit of teamwork and goodwill within and between departments and facilities.

2. When you recognize positive behavior, reward it with a word or note of thanks.

3. Demonstrate pride in Carolinas HealthCare System by discussing facilities, services, policies, departments and people in a positive manner.

4. Avoid making excuses or blaming other people. Go out of your way to help other people. Get help if needed.

5. Consider the needs of other departments/shifts (e.g., provide information to affected parties regarding schedule delays, know how other departments function on your behalf and how your actions may affect them).

6. Do not be afraid to ask questions.7. Discuss department problems in appropriate private settings with the

department’s management staff or in-staff meetings.8. Offer assistance to others. Assume additional responsibilities, as

appropriate, to assist team members. Share knowledge with team members to improve group performance.

9. Work as a team to resolve issues. Involve others who may help.


Mercy School Of NursingGuidelines for Professional Behavior

Students are expected to exhibit professional behavior as outlined in this document. The “client” refers to the patient, family and friends.

Ethical standards1. Reports errors promptly.2. Demonstrates personal integrity.3. Respects client rights, dignity, beliefs and customs.4. Demonstrates courtesy, compassion and tact.

Legal standards5. Is physically and mentally fit to carry out assigned responsibilities.6. Maintains competence in nursing.7. Recognizes situations where supervision is required.8. Protects client from abuse, neglect or abandonment.9. Takes appropriate action when client safety is endangered.

10. Accepts and delegates responsibilities within the legal scope of practice.11. Wears name badge and introduces self to client by name and title.

Accountability12. Demonstrates primary commitment to the client.13. Maintains standards of personal conduct that reflect credit upon self, the

school, hospital and profession.14. Assumes accountability for own actions.15. Is reliable in following through on responsibilities.16. Reports promptly for clinical experiences.17. Uses established procedures to notify appropriate persons when unable to

meet responsibilities.18. Refrains from using abusive, foul or offensive language and behavior in the

professional setting.

Standards of professional nursing practice19. Maintains standards of nursing care.20. Follows institutional policies and procedures.21. Uses accepted channels of communication.22. Refrains from discussing own problems with clients or personnel in the

professional setting.23. Contributes to a positive learning and practice environment.

Advocacy24. Works cooperatively with health team members on behalf of the client.25. Ensures that clients receive information needed for participation in own

healthcare management.26. Provides care regardless of sociocultural or economic status of client,

personal attributes or nature of health problem.


Confidentiality27. Honors client right to privacy.28. Protects information of a confidential nature.29. Obtains client permission to observe care when not directly involved in that care.30. Accesses medical records only of clients for whom direct care is assigned.

Lifelong, self-directed learning31. Possesses knowledge and skill to execute assigned care.32. Seeks to improve identified weaknesses.33. Participates in continuing education to meet personal and professional goals.

SourcesAmerican Nurses Association (2002). Code of ethics for nursesAmerican Hospital Association (2003). Patient Care PartnershipInternational Council of Nurses (2005). Code of ethics


Dress Code

A complete student clinical uniform consists of:

Female: A clean Mercy School of Nursing ceil blue scrub top and dark navy uniform pants or skirt. White or flesh colored hose should be worn with the uniform skirt. Socks are not allowed with the uniform skirt.

Male: A clean Mercy School of Nursing Ceil blue scrub top and dark navy uniform pants. A plain white T-shirt must be worn under the scrub top.

A white lab coat or scrub jacket or a dark navy fleece jacket in good repair may be worn with the uniform. Cardigan sweaters are not permitted. Unadorned, low top, all black or white solid top (no mesh) leather athletic shoes or strapped clogs are acceptable with black or white socks. Socks must match the shoes and shoes must be clean and in good repair.

The cardkey badge is considered part of the uniform and must be worn above the waist and on the outermost garment for ease in reading. All students will have bandage scissors, watch with a second hand, black ink pens, a penlight, a black sharpie and a stethoscope.

The jewelry permitted includes class, engagement or wedding rings (A maximum of three rings for both hands). Persons with pierced ears may wear post style earrings with the size no larger than 5mm in diameter. The maximum number of earrings will be two pairs. No other visible body piercing is allowed. A short length necklace worn inside the scrub top is permissible. Clean, neatly trimmed beards and mustaches are permitted. Hair style and color should be conservative. Neatly arranged hair should be no longer than the collar or secured behind the shoulders in a style not to interfere with client care or pose an infection control hazard. Conservative clips are acceptable. After shave, cologne, perfume or excessive makeup is not permitted. Unchipped clear or white nail polish may be worn. Artificial nails are prohibited. Nails should not extend beyond the tip of the finger. Visible tattoos must be covered.

Students are expected to abide by the dress regulations of Carolinas HealthCare System division of nursing, as well as the specific guidelines provided by other agencies used for clinical experience. A student who is inappropriately attired may be dismissed from the clinical area.

Whenever students are in the hospital or any Carolinas HealthCare System affiliated property or activity it is important to present the image of a professional. When picking up assignments or when being oriented to the clinical unit, street clothes in good repair are to be worn under a white lab coat with identification badge. In any area of the hospital, shoes must be worn with hose or socks and be neat and well fitting. Flip-flop style sandals, shorts, miniskirts, jeans, tank tops or tops revealing cleavage or chest hair may not be worn in the hospital. Chewing gum is not permitted at any time. For further information about the hospital dress code, refer to the hospital personnel manual.


Students are expected to use good judgment when dressing for classes. Clothes should be neat and comfortable. Please keep in mind temperature variations and either dress in layers or bring a sweater to adjust attire to the climate of the classroom. Shorts and/or miniskirts no shorter than two inches above the knee may be worn to class. Shorts and miniskirts are not to be worn in the hospital.

Students should consult school personnel if there are any questions about these regulations.


Carolinas HealthCare SystemStandards of Appearance Examples

Categories Unacceptable Examples Acceptable Examples

Uniforms

Patient gowns

Color and/or design as approved by individual facility unit manager/administrator

Knickers, crop pants, stretch pants, shorts, jeans (any color)

Uniform pants

Short/mini shirtsUniform dresses, jumpers or split skirts (at or above knee)

Non-white T-shirts or T-shirts not the same color as the approved uniform color

Top or blouse

Uniform jumpsuits

Cardigans sweaters

Lab Coats/Scrub Jackets

Color/style as approved by individual facility unit manager/administrator

Scrub AttireHospital issued scrubs unless required by department

If allowed, color/style as approved by individual facility unit manager/administration

Socks Pattern, designs on socksAnklet socks – plain white or color matching uniform

Undergarments

Thongs, bright colors or patterns visible under uniform

White, beige or flesh colored undergarments

Color, designs or graffitiClean, plain white undershirt under scrub top

Clinical AttireRequired at Patient/Resident Care Facilities



Footwear

Sandals, open toe shoesColor/style appropriate for area and approved by individual administrator

Flip flopsSolid color athletic shoes/uniform leather clogs

Open back shoes/heels

Hiking boots, cowboy boots

Crocs or other shoes without solid top surface

JewelryWatches, Bracelets

Must not dangle in patient care space (e.g., charms, dangling clasps)

Watches and close-fitting bracelets are allowed

NecklacesMust not dangle in patient care area

Short length, worn inside uniform

RingsMaximum of three rings for both hands (wedding set counts as one ring)

EarringsLimited to two earrings par ear, second must be a post

Other PiercingsVisible pierced jewelry on body parts other than ears (nose, tongue, etc.) not allowed

Pins, StickersProfessional

Promotional pins not allowed (e.g., drug companies, competitor businesses)

May be worn as part of the uniform (e.g., school or nursing, honor society, disease awareness month, etc.)

SeasonalMust not be offensive, cannot affix on ID badge surface (see ADM 270.06)

One pin may be worn if moderate in size

Carolinas HealthCare System

Must comply with ADM 270.06E.g., United Way, Children’s Miracle Network, Service Recognition, Values in Action


Clinical AttireRequired at Patient/Resident Care Facilities



General Attire

Suit or sports coat/slacks, with tie for menSuit (skirt or pants) or dress for women

Shirts/Tops/Dresses

Halter tops Conservative styles

Crop Tops Shirts with collars

Sporty SweatersProfessional pullover sweaters, cardigans, matched sweater sets for women

CamisolesAllowed if covered by jacket in public areas

Sleeveless Tops/DressesAllowed if covered by jacket in public areas

SundressesAllowed if covered by jacket in public areas

Low necklines, displays of cleavage

Off the shoulder garments

Pants/Skirts

Denim (all colors) Dress Slacks

Lycra/Spandex Skirts

Leather/VinylPants length at mid-calf or lower, professional look and fabric

Leggings

Tight Pants

Miniskirts

Footwear

SandalsPumps, peep toe and open toe dress shoes

Open Back SlidesClosed and open toe sling backs, open back heels, clogs


Business AttireRequired at Patient/Resident Care Facilities



Footwear (cont.)

Flip-Flops Flats/Loafers

Hiking Boots, Cowboy Boots Dress Boots

Athletic Shoes Unless allowed by department

Casual Clothing

T-shirts Generally NOT ALLOWED

Logo/Graffiti ClothingCHS logo items (special events), logo no larger than 3x5 index card

Denim NOT ALLOWED - any color

Business Attire (cont.)Required at Patient/Resident Care Facilities


Mercy School of Nursing Academic Success Plan

The purpose of the Academic Success Plan (ASP) is to intervene intensively, continuously and early with at-risk students. Examples of students who are defined as at-risk could be students who:• Have failed a previous nursing course and are repeating that course.• Have passed the previous nursing course with an 81 or below.• Are failing the current nursing course.

Implementation• The ASP will be implemented in each nursing course.• Course faculty will assist in the following:

1. Meeting with assigned student for test review after each test using thegrid.2. Attendance at an academic success class in which attendance ismandatory and roll is taken.3. Referral to the employee assistance program for counseling ifneeded.4. Guidance in selection of a study group, study skills or test taking skills.5. Regular follow-up meetings with assigned student which aredocumented on the ASP action plan.

Documentation• Each course will use the ASP cover sheet, action plan and test grid.• Documentation will be placed in the students’ course folder.• Complete the action plan at the first meeting.• Subsequent meetings are documented on the back of the action plan.

ProbationStudents will be placed on probation according to policy when their grades indicate risk of failure.

DiscontinuationStudents who show grade improvement may be discontinued from the plan but are welcome to continue if it is deemed helpful by the student. Documentation on the action plan will no longer be required once student is taken off the plan.


Mercy School of Nursing Admission and Progression Related to Carolinas HealthCare System Policy on Rehire

Status and Criminal Background/Fingerprint Checks

Mercy School of Nursing will admit and allow students to progress and participate in a clinical experience only if eligibility requirements are met and demonstrated. Eligibility requirements include but are not limited to an acceptable criminal background check and eligibility for rehire by Carolinas HealthCare System.

Students found to be ineligible for rehire by Carolinas HealthCare System may not begin a class at Mercy School of Nursing or participate in the Carolinas HealthCare System loan forgiveness program. Mercy School of Nursing applications for admission, readmission and recruitment will contain disclosures stating that those not eligible for hire/rehire by Carolinas HealthCare System may be excluded from consideration for admission to the school.

Upon the decision by the admissions and promotions committee to offer an applicant admission or wait list status to the program, and upon receipt of the applicant’s confirmation form and fee, the Director of Student Serviceselectronically sends the applicant’s name and social security number to Carolinas HealthCare System human resources. Applicants who are ineligible for rehire or who have a “maybe” status are notified of their status by the Director of Student Services given specific contact information for appropriate Carolinas HealthCare System human resource personnel and encouraged to initiate a requestfor a change in status. The applicant is told by admissions personnel exactly how long his/her space will be reserved, if at all, pending a status determination. The length of time will be dependent upon time remaining until thesemester/course begins.

Monthly, a list of all active students is sent to human resources by the Director of Student Services for verification of continued eligibility for rehire by Carolinas HealthCare System. Students who are found to be “ineligible” or “maybe” are subject to dismissal from the clinical arena. Human resources personnel will study the circumstances related to the termination to determine whether the offense may warrant loss of clinical access. The following options may be considered. Human resources may overturn the “not eligible for rehire” determination. Human resources may determine the offense does not pose a threat to patients or the clinical facility and allow the student to remain in the clinical setting. The student is counseled and no further Carolinas HealthCare System loans are approved. Rehire status is unchanged. In all other cases, a three-person panel comprised of a representative from Carolinas HealthCare System human resources, a representative from Carolinas HealthCare System Administration and a representative from Mercy School of Nursing administration will meet to make the final determination on continued clinical access. Its decision is final. A decision to allow continued access will require student advisement and termination of Carolinas HealthCare System loan. The panel may place additional


stipulations on clinical placement. If the decision is made to terminateclinical access, the student will be administratively dismissed with a final grade of “W” or “F”, depending on academic standing at the time of dismissal. The student dismissed from clinical may remain enrolled in non-clinical courses.

Loss of internship or field/clinical experience access is the result of employer-employee actions, any related appeals and grievances are to be addressed through Carolinas HealthCare System employee routes rather than through school’s due process.

Criminal BackgroundStudents found to have an unacceptable background as determined through a criminal background and fingerprint check and interpreted by Carolinas HealthCare System steering committee (convened by Carolinas HealthCare System human resources) may not begin any class at Mercy School of Nursing and may not participate in the Carolinas HealthCare System loan forgiveness program.

Mercy School of Nursing applications for admission, readmission and recruitment will contain disclosures that findings on a criminal background and fingerprint check may prevent final admission of an accepted candidate. When the admissions and promotions committee has made tentative “accept” decisions, the Director of Student Services will require each candidate to submit a disclosure waiver and personal information sheet and a background search fee (except as noted below). The student charge for the background search is set annually by the school and is based on the approximate per-search charge experienced by Carolinas HealthCare System. Carolinas HealthCare System human resources will conduct a background check on all applicants not more than six months prior to matriculation. The check will consist of a social security trace and criminal history. All background checks will be conducted in accordance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act and require a signed release by the applicant. The signed release is a condition of enrollment in clinical courses.

Teammate Health will fingerprint applicants accepted for enrollment within 60 days of enrollment. If a fingerprint check reveals illegal or questionable behavior prior to enrollment, the student will be denied enrollment and the admission deposit and any prepaid tuition is refunded. A student whose fingerprint check results are not returned by the semester start will be encouraged to accept a later start date. If the student prefers to accept the risk of conditional enrollment, the student must sign a waiver agreeing that the standard refund policy will be used if the student is dismissed from the program due to the illegal or questionable behavior.

The applicant will be advised of background findings and will be provided the opportunity to resolve any discrepancies or errors with the vendor. In the case of questionable findings, the Carolinas HealthCare System human resources steering committee will determine whether clinical placement will be available to the applicant. The steering committee may consider the following factors: the


level of seriousness of the crime, the date of the crime, the age of the personat the time of the incident, the connection between the criminal conduct of the person and clinical duties, the person’s prison, jail, probation, parole, rehabilitation and employment records since the date the crime was committed. The school and the applicant are notified of the findings. If Carolinas HealthCare System declines to offer the candidate clinical privileges, the school will withdraw admission of the candidate and refund the admission deposit, if paid, and anyprepaid tuition.

Background checks are to be conducted within six months of starting the program. A lapse in attendance of greater than six months will require another background check, for which the student will be charged. Regardless of theelapsed time, the candidate must verify, upon matriculation, that no criminal charges have been filed in the intervening time since the search was done. Current employees of Carolinas HealthCare System may be exempt from the background check if their background was searched upon initial employment or subsequent re-employment. That determination will be made by the Carolinas HealthCare System student services liaison. The applicant receiving an employee exemption must remain employed until not greater than six months prior to starting clinical experience, and must verify upon matriculation that no criminal charges, convictions, or sanctions have been filed since the initial search was done. While the vendor’s background findings are subject to clarification and correction, a finding of ineligibility for clinical placement by Carolinas HealthCare System based on those findings is not subject to appeal, nor is a denial of admission to the college based on ineligibility for clinical placement.

Enrolled students must report, in writing, any charge, conviction, or sanction to the director of student services. That notification must occur at least 24 hours prior to the next clinical class or field study/clinical day after the charges are filed or after the conviction or sanction occurs, or immediately if the charge/conviction/sanction occurs within 24 hours of the next clinical day. Failure to report a charge, conviction, or sanction will be grounds for immediate termination of participation in clinical placement. Charges will be considered by Carolinas HealthCare System human resources steering committee. Any subsequent termination would be considered an administrative dismissal with the grade of record being “W” or “F”, depending on academic standing at the time of dismissal. The Carolinas HealthCare System loan is terminated immediately.


Mercy School of Nursing Request for Accomodation

This form is provided in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which creates rights for students with disabilities who choose to pursue an education in healthcare.

Step 1. Review the Essential Functions of a Mercy Nursing Student, prepared by the Southern Council on Collegiate Education for Nursing, which applies to all students of Mercy School of Nursing.

Step 2. Complete the Student Request for Accommodation. On the left side of the table on the following page, list the functions for which you need accommodation to perform. In the column on the right of the table, list the accommodations requested to perform optimally. Use additional pages for explanation or detail.

Step 3. Obtain recent (within the last three years) Professional Certification of need for accommodation from an appropriate licensed professional, such as a physician, psychologist or counselor. The certification must include assessment findings and specific accommodation recommendations. The certification assessment findings must be written on letterhead and include the evaluator’s name, title and professional credentials.

Step 4. Submit student request and professional certification to the associate dean at least three weeks in advance of enrollment. This information is confidential and is not furnished to any outside source without the student’s permission. Additional information may be requested. The associate dean determines the ability of the school to provide the accommodations requested. Instructors and appropriate staff are advised of approved accommodations. The associate dean provides the student in writing the approved accommodationand student responsibilities.

Step 5. Follow through on student responsibilities. A student who does not submit the required documentation, rejects the offer of reasonable accommodation or does not follow through on planning for accommodation is not considered to be a qualified individual with a disability.


Student Request for Accommodation

Name:

Address:

City: State: Zip:

Telephone: ( ) Email:

Need for AccommodationFunction Accommodation Requested

1.

2.

3.

I understand that:

1. My request will go before the associate dean to determine reasonable accommodation.

2. An appropriate licensed professional must provide a specific recommendation for accommodation along with supporting assessment findings.

3. I have the right to appear on my behalf and present additional information to the associate dean.

4. I have the right to appeal to the dean if I feel that accommodation is not reasonable.

I agree that the certifying professional has my permission to speak with the associate dean to discuss my academic status and progress.

Signature: Date:


Essential Functions of a Mercy Nursing School

Component Definition Examples

Critical thinking/cognitive abilities

Decision-making ability sufficient for clinical judgment, ability to calculate mathematic problems, read and comprehend complex material, organize responsibilities, make decisions in time-limited situations

Identify cause-effect relationships in clinical situations, collect and analyze data in problem solving, develop plansfor nursing care, interpret data from medical record, calculate drug dosages, assess patient complaints, respond appropriately to changing patient situations, prioritize patient care

Interpersonal skills

Ability sufficient to interact with individuals, families and groups from a variety of social, emotional, cultural and intellectual backgrounds

Establish relationships with patients and healthcare team members

Communication skills

Ability sufficient for interaction with others in verbal and written form

Explain treatments procedures, initiate health teaching, document nursing actions and patient responses

Mobility

Physical abilities sufficient to move from room to room and maneuver in small spaces, stand and walk for eight hours, bend and reach

Make frequent trips between work stations and patient rooms, safely move around in patient rooms/work stations/treatment areas

Weight-bearingAbility to lift and transfer patients and equipment safely up to 51 pound

Position and move patients who have limited or no mobility, move equipment

Motor skills

Gross and fine motor abilities sufficient to provide safe and effective patient care

Calibrate and use equipment, performskill procedures, use exam gloves, administer cardiopulmonaryresuscitation, write legibly in medical record

Hearing

Auditory ability sufficient to monitor and assess patient needs

Hear monitor alarms and emergency signals, auscultate heart, lung and blood pressure sounds


Component Definition Examples

Vision

Visual ability sufficient for observation and assessment necessary in nursing care and can recognize different colors; can see greater than and less than 20feet; have depth perception

Observe patient responses, specimencolor and appearance of wounds

TactileTactile ability sufficient for physical assessment

Perform palpation and physical examination, take pulses, insertcatheters


Professional Certification

An appropriate licensed professional (physician, psychologist, counselor, etc.) must certify the request for accommodation at Mercy School of Nursing.This applicant has discussed with me the nature of the program at Mercy School of Nursing and the essential functions of a Mercy School of Nursing student. It is my opinion that because of the applicant’s disability, he or she should be accommodated in the manner described below. I have attached on letterhead relevant assessment findings and test results that support accommodation. I understand that this request will be presented to the associate dean, who may contact me for clarification. The associate dean is available by phone at 704-512-2016.

Name of applicant:

Date applicant was last examined:

Specific diagnosis:

Specific accommodation requested:

(Name, please print) (Title and Professional Credentials)

(Signature) (Practice/Agency)

(Address) (City) (State) (Zip)

(Phone) (Date)

PLEASE ATTACH ASSESSMENT FINDINGS ON LETTERHEAD AND RETURN TO:Associate DeanMercy School of Nursing701 B Forest Point CircleCharlotte, NC 28273Fax: 704-512-2050


Mercy School of NursingAGREEMENT TO VERIFY COLOR ASSESSMENTS

Student Name:

As a student enrolled in clinical program activities diagnosed with color vision deficiency (commonly referred to as color blindness), I understand that I must take steps to ensure the accurate color assessment of my patients. In order to accomplish this requirement, I agree to the following steps for each clinicalcourse for which I am enrolled:

1. Meet prior to each term with my clinical and/or lead faculty member to determine what types of situations I may encounter that will require color verification

2. Share with my clinical and/or lead faculty member my specific color identification issues, and

3. Determine a process for requesting color verifications during patient assessment and at all other times when necessary in the competent care of my patient

I understand that failure to comply with this agreement or to consistently perform inaccurate color assessments may lead to me being deemed unsafe in clinical practice. I further agree to follow all additional requirements as agreed to with my clinical and/or lead faculty member as identified below:

Student Signature Date

Faculty Member Signature Date


Mercy School of Nursing Complaint Procedure

When a student has a complaint about the program, the complaint should be shared first with the person(s) most directly involved in the issue. If the issue is not resolved, the student may share the complaint in writing with the dean, associate dean or director of student services. The dean or associate dean will meet with the student within five business days and after the investigation will respond to the complaint in writing within five business days. If the student remains dissatisfied and feels that personal rights were violated, the student may use the hearing and appeals procedure to pursue the complaint. A record of the original complaint and the written response is filed in the dean’s office for a period of eight years.

Hearing and Appeals ProcedureMercy School of Nursing believes students have the right of appeal in matters in which the student’s rights may have been violated or in which the student has been dismissed due to discrimination, differential treatment or procedural irregularity. The chief goal is to provide for the prompt and impartial resolution of the problem. These are the steps in the process.

A. When a student feels his/her student rights have been violated or uponreceipt of notification of dismissal, the student must send written notification to the dean of the school within five business days of the occurrence. The student may attend class but not clinical during the appeal process.

B. The student’s written request must describe the specific issue that the studentseeks to appeal.

C. The dean will review the request for appeal and determine if thecircumstances fall within the areas subject to appeal.

D. The dean will inform the student in writing within five business days whetherthe request for appeal is approved. If approved, the specific appealable issue will be identified for the student, shared with the involved faculty and the hearing and appeals committee.

E. The hearing and appeals committee will be composed of one instructor ofeach clinical course, student representatives as elected by each class and the chair of the student services committee. In the event that a committee member is involved in the grievance, the member will be excused from the hearing and appeals committee. The dean of the school will designate a replacement.

F. The chair of the student services committee shall serve as the chair, presideover each meeting and vote only in the event of a tie. The chair will designate a recorder.

G. The appealing student and involved staff will provide the committeechairperson with evidence and background material to be considered during the hearing. The evidence must be provided two business days prior to the hearing date.

H. The hearing should be scheduled within five business days from the date thedean notifies the hearing and appeals committee. However, the hearing and appeals committee does not meet during school holidays or breaks.


The hearing would be scheduled within five business days from resumption of classes. The appealing student and the involved faculty may attend the hearing and present testimony. The student is responsible for supporting his/her challenge to an action by showing that Mercy School of Nursing demonstrated discrimination, differential treatment, procedural irregularity or that his/her rights have been violated. The faculty/staff will present evidence in support of the action by the school regarding the issue of appeal. The committee will deliberate in closed session.

I. Written minutes will be kept on the proceedings of the committee and filed inthe school office. The chair will sign the minutes. No tape recording is permitted.

J. An attorney will represent neither the student nor the faculty/staff member(s) inany phase of the hearing. The student and/or faculty/staff member may consult legal counsel in connection with preparation for the hearing.

K. The student and involved faculty/staff will be allowed to state a positionrelated to the action taken. The chair will verify that both parties are satisfied that their positions have been stated.

L. The hearing does not have to be conducted strictly by the rules of lawrelated to examination of witnesses or presentation of evidence. Any relevant matter shall be considered, regardless of any rule of law applicable to judicial proceedings that might make the evidence inadmissible. The chair presides over the hearing to assure that all parties are able to present relevant evidence and to make decisions regarding procedural matters and objections to evidence. The chair may rule at any time that evidence or testimony presented is not applicable to the appealed issue.

M. The decision shall be rendered within five business days after completion ofthe hearing. The chair of the committee shall inform the student, the involved faculty/staff and the dean of the decision as soon as possible and prepare a written decision within one business day after the decision is made.

N. In cases of dismissal, the committee has the authority to uphold or overturnthe dismissal. The decision shall be rendered by a majority of the committee and shall be final. In appealed cases of other alleged violation, the committee has the authority to determine whether a violation of rights has occurred and to make a recommendation regarding action to the dean. The decision of the dean is final.

Fund Raising ActivitiesStudent organizations and school committees may conduct limited and appropriate fundraising activities with prior approval.

1. All fundraising activities must be approved at least three weeks in advance bythe organization’s advisor or committee chair and by the school administration. If the event involves an outside vendor, will be held off-campus, is unusual or unique, or involves retail sales of any kind, the project will also require approval by the Carolinas HealthCare System retail services manager and/or Carolinas HealthCare System foundation. In those cases the project proposal must be submitted at least one month in advance. The school or Carolinas HealthCare System logo cannot be used without


permission. Because the number of fundraising activities that will be approved is limited, organizations are encouraged to plan well in advance and to await final approval before proceeding or expending funds.

2. Appropriate fundraising is identified as fundraising that benefits the school,Carolinas HealthCare System sanctioned organizations, and student organizations or group. Examples include class projects, Student Government Association, Mercy Association of Nursing Students, Children’s Miracle Network, United Way and Arts and Science Council.

3. Fundraising activities must comply with Carolinas HealthCare System HR Policy 5.10.4. Vendors must be approved by the Carolinas HealthCare System retail service

manager. Approval requires that the vendor submit company information, current references, a recent client list and basic financial information.

5. Activities to be conducted outside the school building require the consentof institutional representatives. Students must have approval from CMC-Pineville administration before conducting fundraising activities in the hospital.

6. Fundraising promotion is limited to small flyers on class bulletin boards.Notices must not be taped to any painted surface. Additional advertising must be approved by administration.

7. Students may not conduct fundraising for outside groups, interests, or causes,or for personal profit on the school campus.

8. Faculty/staff may participate in non-profit fundraising through a kitchen tabledisplay that is left in place for no more than 10 working days. Selling for personal or private profit is prohibited. Students may not be solicited for contributions and student contributions cannot be accepted.

9. No form of coercion will be tolerated, including public recognition ofindividual contributions, unless authorized by administration.

10. Good taste and professionalism must be exemplified in all facets offundraising. Any slogan, picture or logo to be used in fundraising must be approved by administration.


National Student Nurses’ Association, Inc.Code of Academic and Clinical Conduct

We recognize the National Student Nurses’ Association as the professional organization for students enrolled at Mercy School of Nursing and designate the Code of Academic and Clinical Conduct along with the student and faculty commitment as the guidelines for students’ behavior.

Students are expected to exhibit professional behavior in the clinical and academic setting as outlined in this document. The term “client” refers to the client (patient), family members or any significant others identified by the client.

PreambleStudents of nursing have a responsibility to learn the academic theory and clinical skills needed to provide nursing care. The clinical setting presents unique challenges and responsibilities while caring for human beings in a variety of healthcare environments.

The Code of Academic and Clinical Conduct is based on an understanding that to practice nursing as a student is an agreement to uphold the trust with which society has placed in us. The statements of the code provide guidance for the nursing student in the personal development of an ethical foundation and need not be limited strictly to the academic and clinical environment, but can assist in the holistic development of the person.

A Code For Nursing StudentsAs students are involved in the clinical and academic environments, we believe that ethical principles are a necessary guide to professional development. Within these environments we:

1. Advocate for the rights of all clients.2. Maintain client confidentiality.3. Take appropriate action to ensure the safety of all clients, self and others.4. Provide care for the client in a timely, compassionate and professional

manner.5. Communicate client care in a truthful, timely and accurate manner.6. Actively promote the highest level of moral and ethical principles.7. Promote excellence in nursing by encouraging lifelong learning and

professional development.8. Treat others with respect and promote an environment that respects

human rights, values and choice of cultural and spiritual beliefs.9. Collaborate in every reasonable manner with academic faculty and

clinical staff to ensure the highest quality of client care.10. Use every opportunity to improve faculty and clinical staff understanding

of the learning needs of nursing students.11. Encourage faculty, clinical staff and peers to mentor nursing students.12. Refrain from performing any technique or procedure for which the

student has not been adequately trained.


13. Refrain from performing any deliberate action or omission of care in the academic or clinical setting that creates unnecessary risk of injury to client, self or others.

14. Assist the staff nurse or preceptor in ensuring that there is full disclosure and that proper authorizations are obtained from clients regarding any form of treatment or research.

15. Abstain from the use of alcoholic beverages or any substances in the academic or clinical setting that impairs judgment.

16. Strive to achieve and maintain an optimal level of personal health.17. Support access to treatment and rehabilitation for students who are

experiencing impairments related to substance abuse and mental and physical health issues.

18. Uphold the school policies and regulations related to academic and clinical performance, reserving the right to challenge and critique rules and regulations as per school grievance policy.

Adopted by the NSNA House of Delegates, Nashville, TN on April 6, 2001.

Challenge ProcedureThose who wish to challenge nursing courses for credit must apply to challenge at least 45 days prior to the date the course is offered.

1. The student must be accepted for enrollment and should make an appointment with the associate dean to determine comparable areas of previously completed course work.

2. A fee of $75 per course fee is due to the student services office prior to challenging each course. An appointment will be made with the appropriate faculty member to establish a written plan that encompasses all steps to be taken through the challenge process. A copy of the schedule will remain in the applicant’s file for future reference. Course materials will be provided to the candidate by the appropriate nurse educator.

3. The student will arrange to take the written challenge examination and required math tests in accordance with the plan. If the grade is a C or better, a clinical performance examination is scheduled. The student must pass written and clinical performance examinations on the first attempt in order to obtain credit for the course. After the student demonstrates satisfactory performance, the nurse educator submits the grade in writing to the admissions and promotions committee and credit by examination is recorded on the student’s transcript. The credit granted is not calculated in the student’s cumulative grade average or grade point average. If the grade is below C or unsatisfactory, the nurse educator notifies the candidate in writing of the necessity to take the course to obtain credit.

Nursing courses must be challenged in sequence. All prerequisite and/or related courses must be completed prior to advancement to the next level. Students may not challenge a course if previously enrolled in that course at Mercy School of Nursing.


Skills ValidationTransferring students must successfully complete validation of clinical skills no later than two days prior to the first clinical day. Two scheduled attempts at validation are permitted. If the student is unsuccessful on the second attempt, the student is dismissed. Students are encouraged to utilize the nursing skills lab for practice sessions prior to attempting to validate.

Testing GuidelinesFaculty Responsibilities: Faculty reviews the honor code at the beginning of each course. The course faculty will review the statistical analysis, test results and other significant issues prior to assigning and posting grades. When a question is excluded from the test, the grades will be recalculated based on the total number of remaining questions. A decision to exclude a question is the teaching team’s prerogative.

Grades are posted on the school’s learning website and are not given out by phone or email. The answer sheet and the test will be recollected prior to review. Test reviews will be held after all students have taken the test. No writing is permitted during the review. Faculty members are available for individual test review after the test is returned to the class. A final exam review date is noted on the course calendar or syllabus.

Challenge of Questions: A student who wishes to challenge the correct answer to a question must present justification in a current reference within five business days after the return of the test. Course faculty determines if the justification is valid. A student who requests verification of Scantron grading accuracy must identify the question(s) of concern within five business days after return of the test. Course faculty will arrange with the secretary to check the Scantron sheetfor accuracy. If necessary, an appointment can be made by course faculty with the staff assistant for the student to see the original Scantron answer sheet. Students who desires further review of the test must make an appointment to meet privately with course faculty, according to course guidelines.

Peer Tutoring: Peer tutoring when available is offered free of charge as a learning resource for students experiencing academic or clinical difficulty. Tutorial services are provided as a supplement to regular class and clinical work and are not a substitute for attendance.

Students must have taken at least one test that indicates that they are academically at-risk or have an academic success plan in place as verified by the course lead faculty before they can be approved for peer tutoring. Application forms for peer tutoring should be submitted to the retention coordinator.

To be approved as a tutor for a course, the student must:1. Complete an application.2. Have completed the requested course with a grade of at least a B.3. Secure the approval of the lead faculty for the currently enrolled course.


The tutor will complete an orientation with the retention coordinator, who is also available for additional guidance with the tutoring process.

Peer tutoring1. Must be conducted in the MSON building or another Carolinas HealthCare

System property.2. Is limited to a maximum of two hours per week per tutee.3. Follows a ratio of one tutor to one or more tutees. Guidance from the

retention coordinator is requested with groups larger than two or three tutees.

4. Is conducted by tutors who are not employed by MSON or Carolinas HealthCare System and will be recognized through gift incentives.

Confidentiality StatementStrict confidentiality of patient and employee information must be maintained. Students engaged in clinical practice at all facilities have a moral and a legal obligation to protect the privacy rights of others by taking actions to prevent disclosure of confidential information.

Students must:1. Refuse to release in any format or discuss with unauthorized persons any

patient, family or employee confidential information.2. Refrain from photocopying any part of a patient record unless specifically

authorized to do so by hospital personnel.3. Refer incoming calls or inquiries concerning a patient’s condition or status to hospital staff.4. Refrain from discussing patient information in halls, cafeteria, elevators or

other places where conversations can be overheard.5. Refrain from reading the medical record or seeking information about

acquaintances or relatives who are patients or about any patient unless directly involved in care.

6. Use patient initials rather than names on school-assigned papers.7. Shred documents such as worksheets and care plans that contain patient

information (these papers must not be discarded in unsecured trash at the hospital, school or home. Confidential bins are available at the hospital and the school).

8. Refrain from disclosing employee work schedules, addresses or telephone numbers.

9. Wear authorized clothing and identification when present in clinical areas.10. Refrain from photographing any patient without written permission.

HIPAA Privacy Student Sanctions and Corrective ActionsMercy School of Nursing students and employees are required to comply with HIPAA privacy regulations and related Carolinas HealthCare System policies and procedures (collectively called the privacy standards). Not knowing the privacy standards does not excuse the violation. Failure to comply with the HIPAA privacy standards will result in disciplinary action. The disciplinary action is based on the severity and context of the violation. Patient complaints involving HIPAA


violations by students are investigated by the Carolinas HealthCare System corporate privacy department in addition to the school investigation. Non-compliance in an employee role is dealt with according to Carolinas HealthCare System policy and will have no bearing on the student role unless there are clinical limitations and consequences.

Mercy School of Nursing students and employees are subject to Carolinas HealthCare System policy PR.PHI.145.13 HIPAA privacy sanctions. Students are oriented to HIPAA privacy standards during new student orientation and annually. Reporting of HIPAA violations is mandatory. The Carolinas HealthCare System policy includes definitions of each level of violation. The dean or associate dean notifies the student and the director of student services of HIPAA violations.

The level of the violation is determined by the dean or associate dean. The Carolinas HealthCare System corporate privacy and human resources departments are consulted as needed. If the Carolinas HealthCare System corporate privacy department requests the name of the involved student, the student is asked to sign a waiver in compliance with FERPA regulations. A student who refuses to sign loses clinical access and will be dismissed from the program for failure to assist with a Carolinas HealthCare System HIPAA investigation. Those investigating the incident use the Carolinas HealthCare System corporate privacy investigation report.

Level I Violation (accidental disclosure of patient information) - The student is placed on an action plan and contingency for the HIPAA violation.

Level II Violation (knowing or willful disregard of privacy standards or a repeated level I violation) - The student is referred to the admissions and promotions committee for action up to and including dismissal. If the committee does not dismiss the student, the student will be placed on an action plan and contingency in addition to other sanctions as determined by the committee.

Level III Violation (malicious disregard of the privacy standards or a repeated level II violation) - For an initial level III violation, the student is referred to the admissions and promotions committee for action up to and including dismissal. If the committee does not dismiss the student, the student will be placed on an action plan and contingency in addition to other sanctions as determined by the committee. A repeated level III violation results in dismissal. If the level of violation is clear, the violation is reported to Carolinas HealthCare System using the Carolinas HealthCare System reporting misuses and disclosures of protected health information (PHI) form. If the level is not clear or if assistance from Carolinas HealthCare System corporate privacy is needed in investigation, the incident is reported on the corporate privacy investigation report.

Copies of the action plan are placed in the clinical folder and student record and a copy is given to the dean. A student who wishes to dispute the findings of a HIPAA violation investigation may request a meeting with the dean or associate dean and the director of student services. The request must be received within


five business days of receiving notification of the investigation findings. The dean or associate dean and director of student services inform the student of their decision.

Examples:A. Level I violations occur when a student unintentionally accesses, reviews

or reveals patient information without a HIPAA defined legitimate “need to know.” Examples include, but are not limited to, failing to sign off an unattended computer terminal, failing to secure information in a reasonable manner, discussing patient information in a public area and accessing his or her own records without following procedure for requesting access.

B. Level II violations occur when a student accesses, reviews, discloses or discusses patient information for purposes other than those allowed under HIPAA. Examples include, but are not limited to, accessing patient records outside the student’s specific patient care assignment, releasing patient data inappropriately, repeating a level I violation even as a part of the same incident, disposing of PHI inappropriately, taking PHI home or off the unit without permission, photocopying or printing PHI without permission and placing patient information into the public domain.

C. Level III violations occur when a student accesses, reviews or discloses in any way PHI for personal reasons, personal gain or with malicious intent. Examples include, but are not limited to, releasing data for personal gain or with intent to harm, compiling a mailing list for personal use or use by a third party, reviewing PHI to use information in a personal relationship, destroying or altering data intentionally, taking or accessing PHI from a non-work location to show others and repeating a level II violation even as a part of the same incident.

Mercy School of Nursing Curriculum FrameworkSpirit of Inquiry – A persistent sense of curiosity that enhances both learning and practice guiding a nurse to raise questions, challenge traditional and existing practices, and seek creative approaches to problems.Sub concepts: Knowledge and science, informatics, systems thinking, evidence-based practice, excellence, innovation/creativity, pharmacology, nutrition/diet therapy.

Human Flourishing – An endeavor to achieve self-actualization and fulfillment encompassing the uniqueness, dignity, diversity, freedom, happiness, and holistic well-being of the individual within the larger family, community and population.Sub concepts: Relationship-centered care, patient-centeredness, global health, caring, community resources/discharge planning, patient advocacy, confidentiality, beliefs/values/culture/diversity/holism, communication

Nursing Judgment – The employment of critical thinking, clinical judgment, and best evidence into practice in making decisions about clinical care, the development and application of research and the broader dissemination of insights and research findings to the community, and management and resource allocation.


Sub concepts: Clinical reasoning, collaboration, teamwork, technical skills, human development, documentation, time management/organization, quality and safety, health care economics, healthful work environment, ethical/legal frameworks, healthy teaching

Professional Identity – Internalization of core values and perspectives recognized as integral to the art and science of nursing which become self-evident as the nurse learns, gains experience, and grows in the profession while working to improve patient outcomes and promote the ideals of the nursing profession.Sub concepts: personal and professional development, accountability, integrity, standards of professional nursing practice, ambiguity/uncertainty, context and environment, lifelong self-directed learning, leadership

Clinical Performance EvaluationStudents are invited to participate actively in the process of evaluation of clinical performance, including weekly recording of progress as well as evaluation summaries. Evaluation of clinical performance in each of the five curriculum components is based on the course objectives, which indicate the growth the student is expected to make each semester.

The grading scale for clinical performance is outlined below.

S = Satisfactory Safe clinical performance, consistently demonstratesidentified behavior and/or skills and application of nursing principles at the expected course level.

U = Unsatisfactory Unacceptable clinical performance with lack ofexpected behaviors and/or skills and unsafe nursing practice.

NO = Not Observed Behavior not observed or applicable.

Clinical performance is evaluated on a pass-fail basis. The clinical component of the course must be passed in order to pass the course.

The student is expected to perform at a satisfactory level each clinical day. Conferences on clinical performance will be held at mid-semester and at the completion of the course. The mid-semester progress report is formative and the final evaluation is summative. Additional conferences are held as necessary.

To obtain a final clinical grade rated as satisfactory, the student must successfully:1. Demonstrate all clinical behaviors.2. Validate all clinical competencies.3. Complete all required learning activities.

The final clinical grade will be satisfactory or unsatisfactory.


Administration of MedicationsStudents and faculty will follow the accepted institutional guidelines and procedure in administration of medications. A student is NOT to give medications without the supervision of faculty, except in special circumstances when a preceptor or other designated nurse may supervise. The student willadminister scheduled and as needed medications in accordance with planned instructional objectives and at the discretion of faculty. Faculty may opt to supervise STAT and one-time doses. Where the level of competency or other circumstances limit student administration of medications, clear communication by the student and/or with the staff nurse is required. Students cannot administer the following medications: 1) antineoplastics other than by oral route, 2) epidural meds, 3) intracardiac medications and 4) blood and blood products. The medications that must be verified and co-signed by two licensed nurses follow the Carolinas HealthCare System policy.

Students may perform previously learned medication competencies as they add those for the course in which they are currently enrolled.

NUR 1000: Students who have successfully validated competence may administer oral, rectal, inhaled, vaginal, urethral, subcutaneous, intramuscular and topical medications. Students may not administer intravenous infusions or medications.

NUR 1005: Students who have successfully validated competence may administer oral, rectal, inhaled, vaginal, urethral, subcutaneous, intramuscular and topical medications. Students may not administer intravenous infusions or medications.

NUR 1010: Students who have successfully validated competence can administer insulin, hang new intravenous solutions, connect new intravenous tubing, calculate/regulate intravenous flow rates, flush prn adapters with saline and flush central lines with heparin and saline. Students may administer intravenous parenteral nutrition, fat emulsion, vitamins, diluted electrolytes and minibag medications.

NUR 2005: Students are not allowed to give medications.

NUR 2000: Students who have successfully validated competence may perform venipuncture and administer intravenous push medications only under the supervision of faculty or preceptor. Students may administer heparin, coumadin and intradermal medications. Students may titrate intravenous medications under the supervision of faculty or preceptor.

NUR 2010: Students may perform pediatric drug calculations, administer antiparasitics and immunizing agents under the supervision of faculty or preceptor. Students may administer drugs used during pregnancy/labor/delivery/lactation, clotting agents, fertility drugs and contraceptives.


NUR 2015: Students may perform pediatric drug calculations, administer antiparasitics and immunizing agents under the supervision of faculty or preceptor.

NUR 2020: Students may titrate intravenous medications under the supervision of faculty or preceptor.

NUR 2040: Students may titrate intravenous medications under the supervision of faculty or preceptor. Students may administer drugs used during pregnancy/labor/delivery/lactation, clotting agents, fertility drugs and contraceptives.

Scope of Practice Restrictions for Student NursesMercy School of Nursing ascribes to the policies of Carolinas HealthCare System and the North Carolina Board of Nursing (NCBON) that define the role of the student nurse.

Carolinas HealthCare System Policy and Clinical Practice Guidelines: Student Nurses, Advisory Statement Procedures

NCBON: Activities within the Scope of Practice for the RN or LPN (Advisory Statements)

Nursing students are not allowed to perform the following procedures:

1. Administration of blood and blood products2. Investigational protocols3. Administration of chemotherapy and other specific drug routes or classes

as specified in the school policy on medication administration4. Procedures requiring advanced preparation and/or certification5. Insertion, manipulation or removal of central vascular or arterial catheters,

including PICC lines6. Arterial punctures or obtaining blood from an arterial line7. Obtaining blood specimens for the lab other than by finger or heel stick8. Debridement of wound9. Defibrillation other than by AED10. Insertion of enteral feeding tube11. Peritoneal dialysis12. Surgical retraction, hemostasis, cutting, suturing or stapling of tissue13. Removal of thoracotomy tube14. Reinsertion or removal of gastrostomy, epidural/caudal or suprapubic

catheter/tube15. Measurement of cardiac output or pulmonary wedge pressure16. Witness of consent, advance directive or other legal document17. Independently giving report to next shift or next unit in transfer18. Accompanying patient to off-campus site19. Change/alteration of ventilator setting


Student entries on the patient record require verification by instructor or designated nurse. See policy on administration of medications for verification requirements and limitations on medication administration.


Learning Resource Center Circulation Policy

Audiovisual materials and books are for use by the students and faculty of Mercy School of Nursing. CHS employees may use AV materials or books with approval of the Associate Dean and prior notification of the Learning Resource Specialist (LRS). All materials placed into circulation will be identified by a book pocket with a card for circulation placed on the material case or inside book cover. Reserved materials will be designated by a yellow Reserve sticker and a For Reference sticker on the card pocket. Reference only books are designated by a blue Reference sticker. All reserved and reference materials must be used on site.

Audiovisual MaterialsReserved AV materials must be viewed on MSON property. Students must notify the LRS when a video is removed to view. Students may view DVDs or videos in any available smart classroom, the break room, the conference room, or within the skills lab. An ID badge must be given to the LRS as collateral for the return of all reserved AV materials when removed from the Learning Resource Center. Circulated AV materials may be checked out on a two-day rotation. A sign-out card must be submitted for all circulating materials. Circulating AV materials may be renewed one time unless there is a request from another student to view or if the resource is in great demand.

BooksBooks may be checked out on a two-week rotation and checked out for one renewal per semester. The borrower is responsible for materials checked out and may not pass them on to others.

Computer SoftwareComputer software programs are available for use only within the LRC. Any programs that require software discs to view are kept at the LRS desk and must be secured using an ID badge given to the LRS as collateral for its return. All other software programs are loaded into student computers within the LRC and are available to students on the computer desktop.

Late notifications are the responsibility of the LRS and students will be notified of any fines being assessed to their accounts related to overdue or missing resource materials.

All materials must be returned to the LRC before the end of the semester.


Bylaws of the Student Government Association (SGA) of Mercy School of Nursing

ARTICAL I TITLE AND FUNCTION

Section 1The name of this association shall be the Student Government Association of Mercy School of Nursing.

Section 2

The purposes of the Student Government Association shall be toa) act as a liaison between student body and the school faculty

and administration; andb) promote the well-being of the student body.

Section 3

The functions of the Student Government Association shall be:a) to promote and to protect the well-being of students as

nurses and as individuals;b) to provide a governing body to address student issues and

bring these issues forward to faculty and staff as needed.

ARTICAL II MEMBERSHIP

Section 1The Student Government Association shall consist of all members of the student body of Mercy School of Nursing.

ARTICAL III ADVISOR

Section 1

There shall be one faculty advisor of the association. This advisor shall be elected by the faculty/staff organization. The advisor shall serve a two-year term. The advisor position maybe extended at the request of the advisor and the consent of the faculty/staff organization. The faculty advisor attends all SGA and executive committee meetings.

ARTICAL IV OFFICES AND DUTIES OF OFFICE

Section 1

The governing offices of the Student Government Association shall be comprised of president, vice president, secretary, treasurer and the class president from each course selection. These are the voting members of the executive committee.

Section 2

The president shall:a) Call and preside over all meetings of the association and

executive committee.b) Post an agenda of all scheduled association and executive

committee meetings on the SGA bulletin board assuring all members receive the meeting agenda in a timely manner. The agenda will include the date and time for the upcoming meeting.

c) Prepare for all meetings by referring to the minutes of the last meeting, conferring with officers and committee chairmen for additional items, developing a major purpose of emphasis for each meeting and reviewing plans with the advisor to evaluate how the agenda should be organized.


Section 2 (cont.)

d) Be an ex-officio member of all committees.e) Appoint special committees and supervise the work of

the chairman of all committees of the Student Government Association.

f) Serve as a member of the Student Services Committee.g) Serve as a member of the Faculty/Staff Organization.h) Appoint a chairman for the Ad Hoc Nominating Committee.i) Attend faculty curriculum committee meetings in the event

the vice president is unable to attend.

Section 3

The vice president shall:a) In the absence of the president, perform the duties of that office.b) Assume the duty of planning the programs and activities as

desired by the students.c) Serve as a member of the Student Services Committee.d) Chair and appoint an ad hoc committee to review annually

the bylaws to determine the need for revision and to keep a record of the proceedings of that committee.

e) Serve as a representative to the curriculum committee.

Section 4

The secretary shall:a) Keep a permanent record of all proceedings of the Student

Government Association and the Executive Committee.b) check the number in attendance and establish a quorum

at each Student Government Association and Executive Committee meeting;

c) post a copy of the SGA and Executive Committee minutes on the Student Government Association’s bulletin board and submit copies to the faculty advisor and chairman of the Student Services Committee. These minutes will be posted one week after the Executive Committee meetings; and,

d) Prepare an updated list of officers and the faculty advisor per school term or as new officers are elected and post to the SGA bulletin board.

Section 5

The treasurer shall:a) Manage all monetary transactions of the association

Deposits to or withdrawals from SGA funds will require ongoing documentation of sums and receipts as appropriate. All monetary transactions for deposit or withdrawal will require two signatures (one from the treasurer or other responsible SGA offices and another from the SGA faculty advisor). SGA account funds are managed by the director of Student Services.

b) Provide an updated report to the Executive Committee regarding the financial standing of the association at each regular meeting. The retiring treasurer shall deliver to the newly-elected treasurer all money, vouchers, books and papers of the association held in custody.


Section 6

The class president shall:a) Represent the concerns of his/her particular class to the

executive committee as an ongoing member of the committee.

b) Serve on committees or participate with activities and projects of the SGA as appointed by the president or vice president.

Section 7

Officers are expected to attend meetings including designated faculty committee meetings. Any officer who misses any two meetings without reasonable explanation or 24-hour notice to the chairman of Faculty/Staff Organization, SGA president orfaculty advisor shall be given written and personal notification of dismissal from office. Appointment to fill the office will be made by the Executive Committee. Officers designated to attend faculty committee meetings are expected to be present.If unable to attend, the officer should make every effort to find another Executive Committee member to substitute for them at the designated meeting.

ARTICAL V NOMINATIONS

Section 1

Nominations will be solicited from the entire student body and forms distributed to all students by the members of the Executive Committee. Nominations will be submitted via anonymous ballot and will be tallied under the supervision of the SGA faculty advisor.

A class president will be elected by their classmates within the first two weeks of the second semester course. Representation for the 1000 course students will be the responsibility of the SGA president or Executive Committee designee.

Special classes such as accelerated curriculum and evening weekend students will have the opportunity to elect a class president for their specific cohort during the second semester course in their curriculum. Students who intend to enter the accelerated curriculum should not run for the general 1010 class president due to the nature of this program.

Section 2Ballots will ask for a statement of qualifications and consent to serve for each nominee.

Section 3Current class presidents and officers already serving in another role on the Executive Committee are discouraged from running for a vacating office.


ARTICAL VI ELECTIONS

Section 1

Elections for offices being vacated by graduating SGA members will be conducted on an as needed basis each semester. Nominated student names will be brought forth fora final vote for office by the student body via anonymous ballot and will be tallied under the supervision of the SGA faculty advisor. A special election may be held at any time to fill vacant positions.

Section 2A plurality of votes shall constitute an election. In case of a tie, the choice shall be made by lot.

ARTICAL VII MEETINGS

Section 1

The number of SGA meetings per year will be dictated according to need and at the discretion of the SGA president. The time and place of the meeting shall be designated be the Executive Committee and announced by publication at least one week prior to a meeting.

Section 2

Special meetings of the Student Government Association may be called by the Executive Committee and may be called by the president upon the written request of five or more members. The time, place and purpose of the meeting shall be stated inthe official notice.

Section 3

Quoruma) Two officers of the Executive Committee, including the

president or vice president, and at least one-tenth of the student body shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at any meeting of the Student Government Association.

b) A majority of the Executive Committee, including the president or vice president, shall constitute a quorum at any meeting of the Executive Committee.

c) A majority of any standing or special committee shall constitute a quorum.

Section 4

The order of business at each meeting shall include:a) Call to order and a count of the number in attendanceb) Approval of the minutes as posted for Students Government

Association and as read in Executive Committeec) Treasurer’s reportd) Report of standing committeese) Report of special committeesf ) Unfinished businessg) New businessh) Announcementsi) Adjournment


Section 5

Parliamentary AuthorityThe rules contained in Robert’s Rules of Order, revised, shall govern meetings of this association in all cases, where applicable, and where they are not inconsistent with these bylaws.

ARTICAL VIII AMENDMENTS

Section 1

These bylaws may be amended at any meeting by a two-thirds vote of the members present. All proposed amendments shall be referred to the Executive Committee for study and recommendations. The committee shall see that all proposed amendments with the committee’s recommendations shall be in the possession of the secretary at least two weeks before the date of the meeting.

Section 2These bylaws and any amendments made by the Student Government Association shall become effective immediately upon approval by faculty.

Section 3These bylaws will be reviewed annually by an ad hoc committee.

ARTICAL IX STANGING COMMITTEE(S)

Section 1

Members or alternate members of a standing committee are expected to attend committee meetings. More than two unexcused absences by a member will result in his removal from the committee. Any member who cannot attend a meeting should notify the chairman in advance.

Section 2

The Executive Committee shall consist of the officers of the Student Government Association; the president, vice president, secretary, treasurer and class president from each course section. The Executive Committee shall:a) Transact general business of the Association.b) Appoint committees not otherwise provided.c) Have the power to fill vacancies for committees;d) Decide upon time and place of meetings of the Student

Government Association.e) Ratify all referendums of standing committees.f ) Prepare specific goals annually for the Student Government

Association.g) Prepare the annual budget and advise expenditure of funds.h) Meet prior to the Student Government Association meetings

and at other times as called by the President.i) Report all transactions by this committee to the Student

Government Association and recommend proposals that will support the growth and development of the Student Government Association.


Section 2 (cont.)

j) Channel all proposed changes to the Student Services Committee; and

k) Evaluate programs that will support the growth and development of the Student Government Association.

Section 3

The Ad Hoc Committee shall:a) Be chaired by the designate of the president of the Student

Government Association/Executive Committee.b) Have members and duties determined at the time of

appointment.c) Function to exist for a specifically designated purpose and

cease to exist when this purpose is satisfied.


General Guidelines for Student Organizations

All student organizations of Mercy School of Nursing shall function under the following guidelines:

Faculty Advisor: The faculty advisor of the organization should be present at meetings. Any contract involving a student organization must be approved by the faculty advisor. A copy of the contract remains in the organization files.

Treasury: The treasurer of each organization must keep accurate records of revenue and expenses with a date for each transaction. The records are reviewed at the conclusion of school year with the faculty advisor. Funds can be stored in the school office safe or a bank. Use of student organization funds for personal expenses is a violation of the law and the policies of Mercy School of Nursing.

Fundraising: Solicitation for fundraising is not permitted in the hospital without permission from the hospital administration. Logos, slogans, etc. imprinted on objects or clothing must be in good taste and must have approval of the faculty advisor.

Meetings: Reservation of classrooms or the auditorium for organization functions is made through the associate dean. School-owned audiovisual equipment can be used only if a faculty member is present to operate the equipment. Minutes are kept of the proceedings of each meeting, reviewed with the advisor and turned into the director of Student Services at the end of the school year.

Alcohol: Alcohol cannot be served at school-related functions. Student organization funds cannot be used to purchase alcohol.

Publicity: Selling or posting notices on hospital property is not permitted without the consent of administration. Those interested in posting notices or selling in the hospital must contact their class or organization advisor in order to initiate steps to request permission. Those individuals or groups posting notices on bulletin boards in the school should date and sign each notice.


CMC-MercyEmergency Action Plan for Mercy School of Nursing

Fire Plan: All occupants of Mercy School of Nursing are responsible for being familiar with this emergency plan and the hospital emergency plan. In the event of a safety drill, the response must be the same as would be practiced in an actual emergency.

In the event of fire, smoke or the odor of something burning, occupants should initiate the emergency procedures outlines below.

A. Occupants should familiarize themselves with the following information:1. The code for fire is CODE RED.2. The location of each fire alarm box.3. The location and types of fire extinguishers available and how to use them.4. The emergency exits in each area.

B. If you suspect or discover a fire, immediately:1. Implement R-A-C-E

a) Rescue or remove anyone from immediate danger.b Alert or Alarm others by pulling the nearest fire alarm box (notifies

others in building).c) Contain the fire by closing all doors and clearing the hallways on the

way out.d) Extinguish the fire using the proper equipment until the emergency fire

team arrives, but only if this is feasible considering the characteristics and severity of the fire. If it is not feasible to fight the fire, Evacuate.

C. If you hear the fire alarm, immediately:1. Evacuate the building - quickly, quietly and calmly.

a) Leave doors closed and unlocked with electrical appliances turned off.b) Use buddy system to alert others as you exit the area.c) Use designated emergency exits.

2. Meet in front of school of nursing to assist with accounting for occupants.

D. Use of tobacco products is prohibited in buildings or on the grounds of any Carolinas HealthCare System facility.

F. Designated exits for the building:a) Back door - Classroom 115, lab, kitchenb) Front door - Conference room, offices, classrooms 106 and 117


Hazardous Materials Plan

As a means of providing a safe environment for Mercy School of Nursing personnel, as well as students and visitors, hazardous materials must be identified and handled in a manner that will provide minimal risk to personnel, students, visitors and the community.

The school interacts with other hospital departments to assure that hazardous materials are appropriately identified and managed from point of entry into the facility until final disposal.

The school also assures that all its students receive orientation and annual inservice education regarding identification and management of hazardous substances.

ResponsibilityThe school is responsible for developing, implementing and monitoring a hazardous materials management plan inclusive of all areas within the school.

MANAGEMENT OF HAZARDOUS CHEMICALSI. Non-cytotoxic Chemicals

A. General Information1. Hazardous chemicals are defined as any chemical that is toxic,

flammable, corrosive or reactive, or capable of causing harm or injury to human, animal or environment.

2. A Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) is to be maintained on every chemical used in the hospital and identified as hazardous. This information is maintained in Materials Management and the Emergency Department for all chemicals used throughout the hospital. A copy of MSDS for products found in the school will be maintained in the school’s office.

3. A Hazardous Chemical Substance Register must be maintained in the school. The Hazardous Chemical Substance Register identifies hazardous substances commonly found in the work area. Information on the Hazardous Chemical Substance Register includes the following:

a. Chemical nameb. The MSDS numberc. Hazards associated with the chemical

B. Identification1. It is the responsibility of the chemical manufacturer and distribution

to ensure that each container of hazardous chemical is appropriately labeled. No containers will enter the hospital without the following information:

a. Identity of the hazardous materialb. Appropriate hazard warningsc. Name and address of the manufacturer or other responsible party

2. It is the responsibility of Mercy School of Nursing personnel to ensure that all containers of hazardous chemicals remain properly labeled.


C. Storage and Handling1. Hazardous chemicals will be stored in appropriate labeled containers.2. Regular inspections will be made of the storage site to ensure there are

no leaking or spilled containers.3. Highly flammable agents will be kept in an area separate from oxidizing

agents.4. The “No Smoking” policy will be strictly adhered to in the presence of

flammable agents.D. Spills

1. If a hazardous chemical is spilled, there are several factors that will determine what should be done: quantity spilled, characteristic of chemical (corrosive, flammable, solid, liquid, etc.), location and type of exposure.

2. Appropriate guideline procedures on the MSDS sheet are to be followed. A spill kit is located in the first floor stairwell.

3. Clear people away from the area and contain spill in as small an area as possible.

4. Notify the department head and the chairman of the Safety Committee. These two will determine if outside assistance is needed in the cleanup.

5. Complete incident report, which will include:a. Location of spillb. Names of people in the area at the time of spill and those

involved in the cleanupc. Date and time spill occurredd. Chemical(s) spillede. Amount spilledf. Description of cleanup proceduresg. Injuries or damages occurred.

6. Send report to risk manager.

MANAGEMENT OF INFECTIOUS WASTEII. Infectious Waste

A. General Information1. Infectious waste is defined as any waste, solid or liquid, that is capable

of producing an infection. These wastes are characterized by the known or suspected presence of a pathogen.

2. The following wastes will be classified as infectious waste:a. Materials that are visibly contaminated with blood or body fluidb. Needles and sharpsc. Specimen to be submitted to the laboratory

3. All nursing personnel are provided instruction and necessary equipment for the proper handling of infectious wastes.

4. Precautions as outlined in the Body Substance Isolation Manual are used in handling all potentially infectious material.

B. Storage and Handling1. Infectious waste will be segregated from non-infectious waste.2. All infectious waste is placed in plastic bags that are impervious to

moisture. Labeled, plastic-lined trash containers are found in the health office.


3. Needles and sharps will be placed (without recapping the needle) in a designated needle disposal box found in the health office.Note:The health nurse is responsible for:a. Monitoring the capacity in the needle box.b. Changing the inner liner when necessary.c. Transporting the full inner liner for final disposal.

4. Liquid wastes may be discarded into the sewer system. When pouring liquid into the sink, hopper, etc., masks may be worn if splattering is likely.

5. Housekeeping is responsible for collecting all contaminated trash and transporting it for final disposal.

C. Management of Spills and Exposures1. Any spills of infectious waste will be cleared immediately by a

member of the nursing staff who is wearing appropriate protective attire. Housekeeping will then be contacted to clean the area. (Reference: Body Substance Isolation Protocol)

2. Any exposure to or injury from handling infectious material will be reported via incident report to the risk manager. (Reference: Incident Report)

All students have an annual inservice review and must pass a written test for knowledge level.

Mercy School of Nursing701B Forest Point Circle

Charlotte, NC 28273704-512-2010

CarolinasHealthCare.org/MSON

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