The clinical
portion of the undergraduate nursing program at CSUS is an exciting, as well
as somewhat uncertain time.
The responsibility
for your educational preparation for your role as a Registered Nurse is a
shared responsibility. Faculty of the Division of Nursing are committed to
guiding you as you learn the accurate and current theoretical knowledge as
well as the necessary technical skills needed in this challenging professional
role. As a student, you have the responsibility to be equally invested in
your education. You can assume this responsibility by attending class, being
prepared, paying attention, involving yourself in the class, and letting go
of any preconceived notions. By doing so, you will be open to truly exploring
and learning both the science and art of nursing.
The next
five semesters will prepare you for your role as a professional who will meet
the ever-changing health care needs of society - both a challenging and awesome
responsibility. To make this experience a more productive and positive time,
the Student Handbook has been designed to provide answers to many questions
which have frequently been asked during the course of the program.
ADVISING
Academic
Clinical
Financial Aid
FORMS
HEALTH
POLICIES AND REGULATIONS
CLINICAL
NURSING REQUIREMENTS
POLICY
FOR CONTROL OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES
FEES
GRADING/REPEAT
COURSE POLICIES
ADD/DROP
POLICIES
ORGANIZATIONS
REGISTRATION,
ATTENDANCE, AND ABSENCES
DIVISION
FACULTY COMMITTEES WITH STUDENT REPRESENTATION
STUDENTS RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES/UNIVERSITY AND DIVISION GOVERNING POLICIES
Student
Rights and Responsibilities
Student
Complaint Policy and Procedures
Student
Grievance Procedures
Sexual
Harassment Policy
Grade
Appeal Procedure
State
Information Practices Act
Division of Nursing Policy
Statement Regarding Alcoholism & Drug Abuse
Petitions
STUDENT
RESPONSIBILITIES IN FACULTY EVALUATION
SERVICES
FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES
GRADUATION
WRITING
PROFICIENCY EXAM
LEARNING
RESOURCES
INITIAL
LICENSURE PROCEDURES
DIVISION
PERSONNEL
ADDITIONAL
EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
CREDIT
BY EXAMINATION (Challenge)
CREDIT
BY EXAMINATION AND ROLL OVER ELIGIBILITY FOR LVN 30-UNIT OPTION STUDENTS
ROLLOVER
PROCEDURE FOR LVN 30-UNIT OPTION FOR LICENSED VOCATIONAL NURSES
LIST
PROC
THREATS
TO THE CAMPUS COMMUNITY
POLICY
FOR WU GRADES
Academic Advising
In the Division of Nursing,
each student is assigned a specific faculty member as his/her academic advisor
for the entire nursing program. The responsibility for the initial planning
for each student’s program rests with the student, rather than the designated
advisor. Students are encouraged to see their advisor once each semester.
Students are required to see their academic advisor during the First Semester
and for completion of their graduation contract in the Fourth Semester.
The Faculty advisor is available to assist students in planning an academic
program appropriate for each student, e.g., selection of general education
requirements for graduation and electives.
Top
Clinical Advising
In each clinical nursing
course, the student is assigned a clinical advisor. This clinical advisor
is responsible for clinical supervision, consultation, and guidance throughout
the entire semester.
The clinical advisor is
also responsible for clinical evaluations. These are given at midterm to
indicate the student’s achievement thus far and at the end of the semester
for final grades. The student generally is asked to submit a self-evaluation
to his/her advisor prior to these designated evaluations.
Top
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Information about scholarships
and loans can be obtained from the Financial Aid Office on campus in Lassen
Hall, Room 1006, or by calling (916) 278-6554.
1. Federal Funds
The Federal Application
for Student Aid (FAFSA) form must be completed for either Federal financial
aid or for supplemental information purposes for most scholarships. Monies
are offered either by the federal government based on financial need, or by
the entity offering the scholarship. These monies are normally disbursed
by the Financial Aid or Scholarship offices. Scholarships are not always
based on financial need or grade point average. Do not be discouraged. We
suggest you apply!
2. Private Scholarships
There are various scholarships
available to CSUS students as well as Nursing students specifically. Scholarships
vary widely as to the grade point average required, if financial need must
be demonstrated, what the student's circumstances or goals are and what the
deadlines are to apply. The Division of Nursing office has scholarships available.
Other scholarships are posted on the bulletin board in Lassen Hall near the
Financial Aid Office and the Scholarship Office. It is recommended that you
check every 2 to 3 weeks to see if new scholarships have arrived. CSUS Scholarship
Office: (916) 278-6179
Websites you can check
are:
www.csus.edu/faid.html
www.fastweb.com
3. Nursing Scholarships
The Division of Nursing
has several nursing scholarships available through the Financial Aid Office
and the CSUS Foundation. Students may apply for some of these while other
scholarships are awarded based on the student being selected by the faculty.
Scholarships that students may apply for will be posted in the Division of
Nursing office, and posted on the List Proc where students will receive e-mail
notification of their availability. Effective Spring of 2003 scholarship information
will also be posted on the Division Web CT site.
There also are scholarships
available from CNSA (California Nursing Student Association). The contact
person is the Faculty Advisor to CNSA.
4. Emergency Funds
Students needing emergency
financial assistance should contact the Chair of Nursing.
Top
HEALTH POLICIES AND REGULATIONS
To
enter into and to complete the nursing program, students must be able to meet
the emotional and physical requirements of the School.
Emotional Requirements
The
student must have sufficient emotional stability to perform under stress produced
by both academic study and the necessity of performing nursing care in real
patient situations while being observed by the faculty and other health care
personnel.
Physical Requirements
In
order to participate in CSU, Sacramento’s
Nursing Program, students are required to travel to agencies and hospitals,
and to homes with unpredictable environments. Students need to have the endurance
to adapt to a physically and emotionally demanding program. The following
physical requirements would be necessary to participate in the clinical courses
in nursing:
1.Speech
Ability to speak clearly in order to communicate with staff, physicians,
and patients; need to be understood on the telephone.
2.Vision
Sufficient to make physical assessments of patients
and equipment; to read.
3.Hearing
Sufficient to accurately hear on the telephone, to be able to hear through
the stethoscope to discriminate sounds.
4.Touch
Ability to palpate both superficially and deeply and to discriminate
tactile sensations.
5.Health
Nursing is considered to be a high-risk profession for exposure to Hepatitis
B and other contagious diseases. Immunizations required by the Division
of Nursing reduce this risk for nursing students, but do not eliminate it
entirely. Students with impaired or deficient immune systems may be at
risk for contracting serious diseases. A physical is not required by the
division, however students are encouraged to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Students with pre-existing conditions, which may impair their functions,
are strongly advised to wear an appropriate medical alert bracelet and notify
the clinical faculty.
Top
CLINICAL NURSING REQUIREMENTS
Students
must meet all the requirements listed below. It is your responsibility to
be aware of the requirements, expiration dates for malpractice insurance,
and CPR certification. Failure to meet these requirements in a timely manner
will result in the student not being allowed to progress in the Nursing Program.
Immunization
Requirements
Students
entering the Clinical Nursing Program are required to submit proof of immunization
status. This can be done at the Student Health Center or by a private physician.
1.
Tuberculosis skin test (PPD) (unless performed within three months
and report submitted) (Tine tests are not acceptable)
Tuberculosis
Screening Program
Tuberculosis
skin tests are required at entrance to or within three months prior to
entrance into the program and at the start of the third and fifth
clinical semesters. An exit TB screening test is strongly recommended
but is not mandatory for students who have been screened prior to their
fifth clinical semester. Students with a positive reaction will require
a chest x-ray and evaluation by the Student Health Center physician in
charge of this program. There is no charge for the x-ray or for prophylactic
medication indicated.
2.
Immunization update (measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria-tetanus, polio,
and chicken pox, as needed by student) Note: It is important that your
physician note clearly if your tetanus injection was either part of a series
or if it was a "booster."
Rubella/Measles
Immunization
Students
born on or after January 1, 1957, must provide proof of immunity
to measles and rubella by immunization (one dose of measles vaccine)
or a positive antibody titer.
Individuals
who received immunization for MMR between 1963 and 1967, or received immunization
prior to 12 months of age, are considered unvaccinated and must receive
two MMRs (MRs), one month apart.
Diphtheria-Tetanus
Current
immunization required with evidence of booster given within the past ten
(10) years. Note: It is important your physician clearly state if
your injection was part of a series or a "booster."
Polio
Proof
of immunization against polio must be documented by immunization records
and/or a statement from a private physician. Immunization must consist
of three (3) oral and/or injected polio vaccines. A booster is required
if third dose was given prior to the fourth birthday. A waiver may be
given only if records cannot be located. A letter must be submitted to
the Division Chair requesting waiver, stating when the oral vaccination
was taken.
Hepatitis
B
The
Division also requires immunization for Hepatitis B upon entry into the
Program. This may be arranged through the student’s private insurance
carrier or through the Student Health Center for an additional fee.
A Health
Clearance form is sent to the Division of Nursing by the Student Health Center
when all health requirements are met. NO STUDENT WILL BE ALLOWED TO ENTER
THE CLINICAL AREA AS PART OF THEIR COURSE REQUIREMENTS WITHOUT A HEALTH CLEARANCE.
STUDENTS
SHOULD NOT RECEIVE ANY IMMUNIZATION UNTIL THEY HAVE HAD A PPD (Tuberculosis
Screening). Immunizations and PPD may be given together, but immunizations
cannot be given before the PPD. Recently administered live virus vaccines
can cause false negative PPD results.
CPR
Certification
All nursing
students are required to have current CPR certification. Prior to the beginning
of each semester students must submit proof of current CPR. Expiration date
of certification is recorded in the Division of Nursing. CPR must be level
C (American Heart Association) or CPR for the Professional Rescuer (American
Red Cross). Students should ascertain that the CPR course they are taking
is for medical personnel. Please submit photocopy of certificate (front and
back) to the Division of Nursing.
Professional
Liability Insurance
Each student
enrolling in clinical courses must obtain professional liability insurance
equivalent to, or greater than, the coverage provided by the CNSA endorsed
insurance carrier. If a student chooses to purchase insurance from the CNSA
endorsed carrier, he/she must submit a completed insurance application and
required fee to the designated CNSA representative by the suggested deadline.
CNSA has a mailbox at the Division of Nursing office. The deadlines are normally
July 27 for fall semester and by January 1 for the spring semester. It is
a good idea to check with the CNSA representative. If the policy is not purchased
through CNSA, the student must bring their insurance policy to the Division
of Nursing office. Registered Nurse students must secure professional liability
insurance equal to or greater than the coverage provided by CNSA’s endorsed
insurance carrier prior to their first clinical course. Student insurance
does not cover the RN who is in practice. Liability coverage must be $1,000,000/$3,000,000.
Personal
Health Insurance
All nursing
students must carry personal health insurance. Contact the CSUS Student Health
Center for available carriers. The Associated Students, Inc. (ASI) provides
student health insurance which includes hospitalization as well as physician
visits, and is acceptable for Nursing students. They are located on the third
floor of the University Union. Check with your faculty advisor about which
plan you would need.
Failure
to comply with Division of Nursing Policies regarding health requirements,
CPR, and malpractice insurance will result in students’ not being allowed
to progress in the Nursing Program. Evidence of adherence to these requirements
must be presented two weeks prior to the beginning of each semester. Immunizations
and medical tests are to be submitted to the Student Health Center. CPR card
copies, malpractice insurance, personal health insurance, and lab fees are
to be submitted to the receptionist at the front counter in the Division of
Nursing.
Uniform
Proper
attire in the hospital area for CSUS generic nursing students and LVNs in
the 30- Unit Option consists of a green polo shirt emroidered with the CSUS
Nursing logo. The polo shirt is to be worn outside the uniform pants. (White
jeans or cords are not appropriate uniform pants). Students may also wear
a white vest over the green polo shirt, provided that the school patch is
swen to the left front of the vest. Returning
RNs are to wear a white uniform with the school patch on the right sleeve
and namepin and photo ID badge on the left upper front area when in hospital
setting for a clinical experience. Scrub clothes will be provided for operating
room and maternity experiences. Namepins and photo ID badges are to be worn
for all learning experiences when you are presenting yourself as a student
from CSUS. (Also see Uniform Policy for Community Experiences.)
Emroidered
green Polo, patches, namepins, (font size 18-point and indicate that they
are a CSUS Nursing Student) and ID badges can be ordered through the CNSA
before the first week of the semester. Bandage scissors, stethoscopes, goggles,
penlights (all required), and hemostats (highly recommended) will be available
for purchase through CNSA. A watch with a second hand also is required for
your clinical experiences.
Hair should
be neat, clean, and well controlled. Students with shoulder length or longer
hair must have their hair secured to prevent hair from interfering with clinical
procedures.
Students
must wear white, nonconductive work shoes with a closed toe and either a closed
heel or an open heel with a secure heel strap. Tennis shoes and clogs with
a totally open heel are not appropriate shoes to wear with the nursing uniform.
Women
must wear neutral or white hosiery with the uniform.
1.
Use of Safety Glasses
Students
will be required to wear safety glasses when appropriate in the clinical
setting.
2.
Uniform Policy for Community Experiences:
Street
clothes with a 3/4 length or full length white lab coat may also be worn
for learning experiences, such as trips to the hospital to select patients,
post-partum home visits, and trips to doctors’ offices, laboratories, and
some community agencies. During clinical experiences where students are
not expected to wear uniforms (e.g., N129, Mental Health Nursing and N144,
Community Health Nursing), students are to dress in a professional manner
which reflects the high standards of the Division of Nursing. Jeans, shorts,
extremely casual pants, such as painter’s pants, fatigues, T-shirts, sweatshirts/pants,
revealing attire, and “fad” clothing items are not permitted. Nails, jewelry,
and makeup should be discreet, and name tags are to be worn at all times.
Hair should be neat, clean, and well-controlled; beards or mustaches should
be neatly trimmed.
Clinical
instructors will advise students of any additional dress requirements or
recommendations pertinent to each course. If the instructor deems the student’s
attire or personal appearance to be inappropriate, the student will not
be permitted to remain at the clinical setting.
3.
Artificial Finger Nails
Due
to the potential risk of infection to patients from artificial nails, direct
care providers may not wear artifical nails.
Attendance/Make
Up Policies
Attendance
at all clinical experiences is mandatory. Should circumstances arise when
a student is unable to attend (e.g., illness) the instructor and clinical
agency must be notified in advance. Make up policies are at the discretion
of the individual instructor, however students are responsible for all clinical
hours missed due to student illness or emergency and may be required to pay
instructor fees for make up time scheduled outside of regular semester hours..
Related
Practical
1.
Travel Requirements
Students are required to provide their own transportation to and from various
clinical agencies and community experiences. Almost invariably this will
mean access to a private vehicle; carpooling, however, is feasible in many
situations. Distance traveled is varied.
2.
Variability of Hours
There are an average of three hours/week/unit of clinical experience required
(N15, N12, N123, N128, N129, N136, N137, N138, N139, N143, N144). N156
generates 4 hrs/week/unit. This includes time spent in clinical agencies,
conferences, and related community experiences. Required clinical experience
shifts may be rotated. A schedule of clinical hours is available from the
instructor at the beginning of the semester. As a general rule, any non-nursing
course should be scheduled after checking the clinical hours. Monday night
generally presents no conflict.
Latex
Allergies
The increase
in the occurrence of latex allergy is related to increased exposure of the
population to latex products, as well as increased recognition of allergy
to latex. Health care professionals are among the high-risk populations because
of their repeated exposure to latex. If a student is aware of a latex allergy,
it is the student’s responsibility to inform the faculty of the clinical course
that the student is enrolled in that the student has a latex allergy. This
must be done at the beginning of the semester in order to ensure the goal
of minimizing the student’s exposure to latex to avoid current reaction (short-term)
and increased sensitization (long-term).
Top
POLICY
FOR CONTROL OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES
Care of Patients/Clients
with Infectious Disease by Students:
Nurses
have traditionally cared for patients with communicable diseases, despite
some personal risk secondary to exposure to these illnesses. Professional
concern for patients has been a factor in placing the clients’ needs as primary
in the nurse’s priorities. Therefore, students must be cognizant of general
infectious disease control techniques, for both their safety and the safety
of the patients/clients with whom they work. Students must be knowledgeable
of practice standard blood and body-fluid precautions, as well as the
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPS) for control of infectious diseases as
developed and defined by the agencies in which they are assigned for their
clinical practice. These SOPS should be developed in accordance with OSHA
Standards. Clinical experiences for students will be only in facilities whose
infectious disease control policies and procedures are based on standard blood
and body fluid precautions.
1.
Clinical Practice Issues for Students
a.
Students need to develop work practices based on the assumption that all
body fluids and tissues are infectious.
b.
All students will be cautioned verbally, and in the students’ handbook,
of risk factors associated with providing care for patients with communicable/infectious
diseases.
c.
When caring for any patient, nursing students will follow prescribed
agency and school policies to protect themselves from occupational exposure
to an infectious disease.
d.
Pregnant students and those who might be immuno-compromised, should be advised
of their right to take a Leave of Absence (LOA) from the nursing program
until they are no longer at risk.
2.
Caring for HIV-Infected Patients/Client
a.
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) infected patients are an example of patients
with infectious diseases who will not be denied services or nursing care
because of their illness.
b.
Nursing students will be assigned to care for patients regardless of the
patients’ diagnoses, and so may be assigned to care for HIV infected or
AIDS patients. As with all patients, nursing care will be provided, using
agency guidelines and standard precautions to prevent occupational exposure
to HIV/AIDS.
Students
with ARC, AIDS or HIV Sero-Positivity:
1.
Health Clearance
a.
All students entering the Nursing Program must comply with the health clearance
requirements of the Division of Nursing.
b.
In accordance with non-discriminatory policies, students who are HIV positive
will be admitted to the Nursing Program and allowed to attend clinical.
c.
Students need not notify the Division of Nursing if they are HIV positive.
However, they must be cognizant of their ethical responsibility for the
safety of those they care for in the clinical area. In this light, HIV
positive students will provide nursing care following the guidelines for
health professionals who are HIV positive as set forth by the Center for
Disease Control. (CDC, 1987)
d.
Students who are HIV-infected are encouraged to seek health advice and support
from either the CSUS Health Center, or an appropriate community health agency,
regarding their own health as well as the best way to protect the health
of their patients.
e.
Students who are HIV positive should be aware that they may exhibit a false
negative PPD test, and are encouraged to seek additional medical consultation
regarding follow-up screening for Tuberculosis.
Faculty
Responsibilities Related to Students Exposed to and/or Harboring HIV/AIDS
and/or Other Infectious Diseases:
1.
University Policy Regarding HIV/AIDS
a.
The Division of Nursing complies with the University Policy which prohibits
exclusion of students with ARC/AIDS, or who are HIV positive.
2.
Responsibilities Related to Clinical Practice
a.
Faculty will abide by agency policies relative to AIDS and other infections.
b.
Faculty are responsible for apprising students of current agencies’ policies
relative to infectious disease control.
c.
Faculty are responsible to assure that all students adhere to Standard Precautions
for handling of blood and body fluids, and that students have access to
materials necessary for adherence to such precautions.
d.
Faculty will assure that during on-campus lab experiences with procedures
which include the handling of body fluids, students will do self-testing
when possible, or if the procedure is performed on another student, students
will use gloves and other protective attire.
3.
Responsibilities Related to Occupational Exposure by Students
a.
If a student is exposed to blood or other body fluids of a patient during
clinical the following should be done:
1)
The student must inform the clinical instructor and nursing manager/supervisor
immediately.
2)
The clinical instructor is responsible for informing the Division Chair
of the incident as soon as possible and for completing an incident report,
to include the date and time of exposure, circumstances of the exposure,
amount and type of fluid or material involved, and presumed severity of
the exposure.
3)
Faculty must follow the formal process outlined in agency policy and the
Division-Agency contract, regarding such incidents.
4)
If treatment/expenses are not addressed in the above documents:
- Send
student to the Student Health Center or an appropriate community agency
for follow-up tests.
-
If student carries personal health insurance, he/she may prefer to see
a private physician for tests and medical recommendations.
5)
Faculty will strongly encourage medical follow-up for students who have
incurred an occupational exposure from patients who are at high risk for
HIV or are HIV positive.
b.
After an occupational exposure for a student, the source individual should
be evaluated to determine the possible need for the exposed student to receive
prophylaxis against any infectious disease such as Hepatitis B, HIV-seropositivity.
Confidentiality of the source individual should be maintained at all
times.
c.
Management of students after an occupational exposure that may place them
at risk of acquiring an infection should follow the guidelines as established
by the Center for Disease Control and the Public Health System to include:
1)
Students need to be strongly urged to seek medical consultation regarding
the exposure.
2)
If not previously immunized with hepatitis B vaccine, hepatitis B immune
globulin may be indicated, particularly if the source individual is found
to be positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg).
3)
If the source individual is known to be HIV-seropositive or refuses testing,
the student should be evaluated clinically and serologically for HIV infection:
a)
As soon as possible after the exposure (baseline)
b)
If seronegative, should be retested periodically for a minimum of 6 months
after the exposure (e.g., 6 weeks, 12 weeks, and 6 months after exposure).
4) The
student should also be advised to report and seek medical evaluation for
any acute illness occurring during the follow-up phase, particularly if
characterized by fever, rash, myalgia, fatigue, malaise, or lymphadenopathy.
d.
During the follow-up period, especially the first 6-12 weeks after the exposure,
students who may have been exposed to HIV infection or hepatitis B, should
follow Public Health Service recommendations for prevention or transmission
of HIV, to include refraining from blood, semen or organ donations, and
abstaining from, or using measures to prevent HIV transmission during, sexual
intercourse. (CDC, 1987)
e.
Data from animal and human studies are inadequate at this time to establish
the efficacy or safety of zidovudine for prophylaxis after occupational
exposure to HIV.
1)
Exposed students should discuss the use of prophylactic medication with
their physician.
2)
Exposed students and their physician should take into consideration most
recent guidelines for use of zidovudine after an occupational exposure as
published in MMWR (Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report).
f.
During all phases of follow-up, confidentiality of the student will be
protected.
g.
Any student involved in an occupational exposure incident should be advised
of sources of counseling and/or support if needed.
Top
FEES
(Subject
to change)
Nursing
school is a fairly expensive endeavor. In addition to registration fees and
transportation costs, a student enrolled full time in the undergraduate program
can estimate the following additional expenses. (Prices are approximate.)
Clinical nursing majors are charged a Student Lab Fee to provide funding for
necessary laboratory supplies. THE SKILLS LAB FEES MUST BE PAID BEFORE
YOU START THE COURSES.
Semester 1:
Lab fee for N15 and N16:
$38.00 total
Texts: $601.00
Uniform:$175.00
Patch: $3.00
Protective Eyeware: $5.00
Name Pin + Photo ID Holder: $8.00
Stethoscope: $35 - $80
Pen Light: $2.50
Bandage Scissors: $4.00
Malpractice Insurance for Generic Students: $20.00
Malpractice Insurance for LVN or returning RN to BSN Students: $60 - $80
(Recommended)
NSNA Membership &
CNSA State Membership: $40.00
Hemostats (optional): $16.90
BP Cuff (optional): $20.00
Semester 2:
Lab Fee for N123: $38.00
Texts: $150.00
Semester 3:
Lab fee for N136: $38.00
Texts: $280.00
Supplies: $40.00
Semester 4:
Lab fee for N143: $25.00
Texts: $150.00
Semester 5:
Texts: $50.00
Top
GRADING POLICIES
Examination Policies
Instructors
in each nursing course will provide students with the dates and times for
examinations at least two weeks in advance. The number of examinations given
in each course will vary. Please see the University policy on the Last
Week of Instruction.
Weekly
quizzes are given in some of the courses. These consist of items representative
of content to be covered in class or weekly readings and reflect class preparation.
Copies of examinations are usually not returned on a permanent basis in
nursing courses to insure test security. Students have the right to review
their tests and be informed of the correct answers after course exams are
scored. Faculty in each course will instruct students on the process to be
followed for reviewing exams in that course. Students are encouraged to make
an appointment with course faculty to discuss questions, concerns, or suggestions
regarding tests or testing procedures.
All examinations
are monitored. Students are not permitted to leave the classroom while
a test is in progress. A student will not be allowed to continue to write
the examination if this policy is violated.
Academic
Dishonesty
Any student
suspected of academic dishonesty, i.e., cheating on an exam or paper/ plagiarism*,
will be reported to the Vice President for Student Affairs. If an investigation
reveals that an act of academic dishonesty has been committed, the student
will receive an “F” grade in the course in which the incident occurred. In
addition, the student can be placed on probation, suspended, or expelled from
the University. (California Administrative Code Sections 41301-41304 of Title
5, Article 1.1)
* Plagiarism
is the use of distinctive ideas or works belonging to another person without
providing adequate acknowledgment of that person’s contribution. Regardless
of the means of appropriation, incorporating another’s work into one’s own
requires adequate identification and acknowledgment. Plagiarism is doubly
unethical because it deprives the author of the rightful credit and gives
that credit to someone who has not earned it. It is not necessary when the
material used is common knowledge. When the source is not noted, the following
would constitute plagiarism:
1. Word-for-word
copying.
2. The
mosaic (to intersperse a few words of one’s own here and there while, in
essence, copying another’s work).
3. The
paraphrase (the rewriting of another’s work, yet still using their fundamental
idea or theory).
4. Fabrication
(inventing or counterfeiting sources).
5. Ghost-written
material (submitting another’s effort as one’s own).
It also
is plagiarism to neglect quotation marks on material that is otherwise acknowledged.
Plagiarism and acts associated with it are cause for disciplinary and/or legal
action. (According to the guidelines established by President Donald R. Gerth,
reference PM 90-04, January 31, 1989)
Grading
- Clinical and Theory
Clinical
courses in nursing are graded Credit/No Credit, while theory courses in nursing
receive a letter grade. In courses with both a clinical and theory component,
the theory grade determines the course grade.
A student
must obtain a grade of 73% in the theory component and a Credit in
the clinical component to complete any nursing course and progress through
the program. If a student receives a grade of 73% or higher and a No Credit
in clinical, the total course must be repeated.
Incomplete
grades are awarded when a “portion of required course work has not been completed
and evaluated in the prescribed period of time....it is the responsibility
of the student to bring pertinent information to the attention of the instructor
and to determine from the instructor the remaining course requirements which
must be satisfied to remove the incomplete” (University
Catalog). An “Incomplete” grade for any nursing course must be
removed before students can progress to the next clinical course. The required
assignment(s) must be turned in to the appropriate faculty for grading in
sufficient time for the grade to be removed prior to the beginning of the
next semester. Incompletes are not given for inferior work or performance.
Repeating
Required Nursing Courses
A student
who receives a grade of less than 73% (C-, D, or F letter grade) in a required
nursing course must submit a letter requesting permission to repeat the course
to the Chair of the Undergraduate Curriculum Committee by the end of the semester.
In addition a copy of the letter should be sent to the Division Chairperson.
Permission to repeat a course will be granted at the discretion of the faculty.
It is strongly recommended that students discuss their academic standing with
their academic advisor.
Repeat
Course Policy
The student
repeating a nursing course must follow the University’s Repeat Course Policy
as follows:
A student
may repeat courses, including the courses used to determine the number of
units and grade points in the calculation of CSUS GPA, under the following
conditions:
1. Credit
has not been earned for a more advanced course (as determined by the department
offering the course being repeated).
2. Approval
of the Chair of the department offering the course has been obtained (see
Note b below) in cases where:
a.
the original or repeated course was taken at another institution.
b.
the repeated course differs in title and/or number from the original course.
3. Approval
of an academic advisor (see Note b) and the chair of the department offering
the course has been obtained in cases where the course is being repeated
a second (or subsequent) time (see Note a).
4. The
department offering the course has not limited the number of times a student
may take the course (see Note c).
If a student
earns a NC grade in a letter graded course that the student chose to take
credit/no credit (CR/NC), the course may be repeated for credit/no credit
or a letter grade. Letter graded courses which the student chose to take
CR/NC and for which the student earned credit may not be repeated for a letter
grade. A course in which a letter grade was earned may be repeated for CR/NC,
subject to the conditions for CR/NC grading in letter graded courses.
If a student
wishes to repeat a course in which he/she earned a C grade or higher, or credit
in a more advanced course, he/she must obtain approval of an academic advisor
(see Note b) and the chair of the department offering the course and must
petition for permission from the Academic Standards Committee. The Academic
Standards Committee will make its determination on the basis of the academic
advisor’s and chair’s explanation of why the repeat is warranted (see Note
a).
IMPORTANT
NOTES
1. All
necessary approvals, for courses taken at CSUS, must be obtained (or requested
in the case of petitions to Academic Standards Committee) by the end of the
third week of instruction. If the necessary approvals are not obtained by
the end of the third week of instruction then the grades will be averaged
(unless the Chair indicates otherwise).
2. Students
who are repeating a course for the first time are encouraged to see an advisor
before they repeat the course in order to discuss preparation and strategies
for successful completion of the course. Students who wish to repeat a course
for a second (or subsequent time) must meet with an academic advisor. Undeclared
students should meet with a “general” advisor (e.g., advisors in the Academic
Advising Center, Academic Achievement Centers, Admissions Office). A declared
Major who wishes to repeat a non-major course may meet with either a “general”
advisor or his/her major advisor. However, when the course being repeated
is a major course, meeting with a major advisor is required.
3. An
academic department may establish a maximum number of times a student may
enroll in a course. If a student exceeds the limit without departmental approval,
the department may disenroll the student, may deny the repeat petition, and/or
may disregard the course if it is presented for fulfillment of graduation
requirements.
4. The
repeat grade policy of a transfer institution, if it can be determined, applies
to a student’s record at the time of transfer. If it cannot be determined,
the CSUS policy shall apply.
5. This
policy cannot be used to improve the undergraduate GPA of a postbaccalaureate
student. Nor can a graduate student repeat courses at another institution
since transfer credit is not posted to graduates’ records.
6. This
policy only applies to the computation of GPA at CSUS (e.g., medical schools
and law schools tend to disregard the repeat policy of another university/college,
and apply their own repeat policy). It should also be noted that the original
grade remains on the transcript with a notation that the course has been repeated
in a subsequent semester.
CSUS
REPEAT PETITION
Top
ADD/DROP
POLICIES
ADDING
ADDING
after the fourth week of instruction is allowed only when a
University error has been made. Evidence of the error must be submitted with
the add form.
NOTE
Instructor’s
signature, signature of the Division Chair, and Associate Dean of the School
of Health and Human Services must be on the add form and submitted to the
Registrar’s by the “census date”.
DROPPING
Requests
to drop courses within the Division of Nursing after the second
week of the semester will be considered only for serious and compelling reasons
and at the discretion of the instructor(s) and the Division Chairperson.
Such reasons
may be:
- changes in employment
- medical problems
- emotional problems
- economic constraints
- total withdrawal
from the University
- other extenuating
circumstances
Drops
are NOT permitted during the last two weeks of the semester except
for situations clearly beyond the student’s control.
Top
ORGANIZATIONS
California
Nursing Student Association (CNSA)
CNSA is
a professional organization established by and for nursing students. Its
purpose is to promote leadership in students and keep its members abreast
of changes in the field of nursing. Much effort is also spent in attempting
to affect change in the profession.
CNSA is
part of the tri-level organization comprised of local and state chapters,
and the National Student Nursing Association (NSNA). CNSA at CSUS provides
student representation on faculty committees, a program orientation, selection
of preceptors for incoming students, and guest speakers on a variety of different
topics. Students from CSUS have the opportunity to serve on the State CNSA
Board of Directors, an outstanding and unique learning experience. Other
highlights of CNSA are the annual state and national conventions. Dynamic
speakers, meeting people from schools all over the state, and taking part
in the policy making process of CNSA all contribute to making the conventions
a memorable experience.
CSUS
Alumni Association, Nursing Chapter
The Division
of Nursing encourages all program graduates to join the Nursing Chapter of
the Alumni Association. The Nursing Chapter organizes a variety of continuing
education, social, and fund raising activities to benefit Division of Nursing
students, academic programs, and alumni. Membership information can be obtained
from the Division office or the University office of Alumni Affairs.
Nursing
Honor Society
The CSUS
Division of Nursing is a member of the only international honor society in
nursing, Sigma Theta Tau Inernational. The purpose of the Division’s Zeta
Eta Chapter, Sigma Theta Tau Inernational is to recognize the achievement
of superior scholarship, to recognize the development of leadership qualities,
to foster high professional standards, to encourage and support research and
other creative work in nursing, and to strengthen commitment on the part of
individuals to the ideals and purposes of the profession of nursing. Student
membership is open to baccalaureate students who have a GPA of 3.0 or higher,
are in the top third of their class, and are nominated by faculty for membership.
Membership nominations are limited to 4th and 5th semester clinical nursing
students during Spring Semester. Membership is limited and based on GPA,
class standing, and service to the community and the Division, School, and/or
University. Additional information is available from the Chapter President
or Faculty Counselor.
Nurses
Christian Fellowship (NCF)
Nurses
Christian Fellowship is a support group for Christian nursing students and
is affiliated with the Inter-Varsity Christian Fellowship. It attempts through
Bible study, prayer, and Christian fellowship to strengthen the spiritual
lives of students and nurses and enables them to more readily involve their
faith with their nursing profession. Meeting times and locations are posted
on the CNSA bulletin board.
Associated
Students, Inc. (ASI)
Students
in the Division of Nursing are eligible to run for ASI Senator representing
the College of Health and Human Services. If the College’s Senator is not
from Nursing, the Division’s Nursing Students’ Association elects a representative
to function as a liaison with the ASI Senator.
Top
REGISTRATION,
ATTENDANCE, AND ABSENCES
“CASPER”
Registration
Students
will be assigned by the Division to a specific clinical section for each clinical
nursing course. The Division of Nursing will register
all nursing students for their clinical nursing courses except for NURS 150
and NURS 169 which the student takes either in 4th or 5th semester.
Leave
of Absence (LOA) Requests
- The CSUS University
catalog addresses leaves of absence sub headed under Registration Procedures.
- Specific types addressed
are Medical, Military, and Planned Educational leaves. Planned educational
leaves must be requested the semester prior to the desired leave.
- The procedure for requesting
a planned LOA in the Division of Nursing is as follows:
- A petition form
is obtained through Academic Advising in the Student Service Center.
- This petition and
a letter addressed to the Chair, Undergraduate Committee, Division of
Nursing, stating the reasons for the LOA are taken to the student’s
academic advisor within the Division of Nursing (a student may need
to consult his/her academic advisor’s posted schedule to make an appointment).
- Submit completed
form and letter to the Chairperson, Undergraduate Committee, with a
copy to the Division Chairperson. Student will be informed of the Committee’s
decision as soon as possible by written or verbal communication.
- The approved petition
and the submitted letter are taken to the Admissions and Records Office
for submission to the University.
Emergency
Leave of Absence
In
the event a student must take an emergency LOA, the following procedure should
be followed.
- Student should immediately
contact the student’s academic advisor to notify the advisor of the situation.
- A letter is submitted
to the Chairperson of the Undergraduate Committee, with a copy to the Division
Chairperson, describing the situation and requesting a LOA. The Undergraduate
Committee will respond as soon as possible.
- Students must be cognizant
of University policy regarding LOA, and follow University guidelines. Failure
to do so may necessitate re-registration in the University. (Refer to University
Catalog).
- Students on a planned
or emergency LOA must notify, in writing, the Chairperson of the Division
of Nursing of their intention to return to the program. Deadlines
for notification are: by November 15 for Spring Semester and by April 15
for Fall Semester.
Placement in the appropriate course(s), after a LOA, is contingent on available
space in the course(s).
Failure
to notify the Division of intent to return to the program, in accordance with
the above deadlines, may negate opportunity for placement.
Top
DIVISION FACULTY COMMITTEES
WITH STUDENT REPRESENTATION
Undergraduate (BS)
Committee
The Undergraduate Committee
(BS) of the Division of Nursing includes student representatives from all
levels of the undergraduate program who have full voting privileges. Two of
the undergraduate representatives are elected by CNSA and the remaining two
representative are elected by the RN - BSN completion students.
The functions of the Committee
are:
1. Evaluates the total
undergraduate curriculum:
- identifies curricular
goals and timelines for the forthcoming year;
- develops philosophy,
organizing framework, and objectives for curriculum;
- identifies and resolves
curricular problems;
- ensures consistency
between undergraduate and graduate program;
- facilitates content,
organization, and clinical placement decisions;
- evaluates the program
curriculum (coordinated through the Program Evaluation Committee).
2. Coordinates curriculum-related
activities:
- facilitates inter-departmental
and inter-agency communication;
- develops articulation
agreements with other colleges and universities in collaboration with
School and College Relations;
- prepares CSUS Catalog
revisions;
- facilitates content,
organization, and clinical placement decisions.
3. Coordinates undergraduate
student-related activities:
- develops and recommends
criteria for admission to the various Division programs and facilitates
the admission process;
- develops policies
regarding student issues (e.g., testing, dress code, safety issues, malpractice
insurance, health insurance, financial aid, etc.);
- makes decisions regarding
student petitions (e.g.. waivers, withdrawals, leave of absences, readmission,
etc.);
- coordinates placement
and progression of students in the nursing major courses;
- evaluates and recommends
admission of transfer students (in consultation with appropriate faculty);
- coordinates update
of undergraduate Student Handbook;
- facilitates processing
of awards, scholarships, alumni requests, and other student related issues.
4. Develops programs for
recruitment and retention of students.
5. Completes surveys related
to curricular issues and student life, admission, recruitment, and retention
of students;
6. Makes recommendations
to Division Assembly regarding academic and student matters;
7. Submits an annual summary
of activities to Division Assembly at the end of the academic year.
Participation
on Division and School committees and in various campus organizations is encouraged
for its potential for learning and expanding collegial relationships. Such
participation may also be considered in the distribution of scholarships and
special awards.
Top
STUDENT
RESPONSIBILITIES IN FACULTY EVALUATION
Faculty Evaluations
- Student Opinion Polls (SOP)
At the end of each semester,
students may be asked to complete teacher evaluation polls. These SOPs may
be collected in either theory or clinical courses, as students are asked to
rate the teaching effectiveness of faculty. The student should assume responsibility
for providing honest evaluative data. The evaluation tool consists of a computer-scored
rating scale with a section for written comments. Student confidentiality
is protected in this process. After grades are submitted at the end of the
semester, results of the SOP are shared with faculty.
Top
STUDENTS
WITH A LEARNING DISABILITY
At the beginning of the
semester, a student who has been determined (by the Campus Disability Testing
Office) to have a learning disability should report it to the Faculty of Record
for each enrolled course. This will allow the faculty to make arrangements
for any special considerations (i.e., test taking, etc.) for the student.
Informing the faculty in a timely manner will enable the faculty to assist
the student as the student progresses through the course.
Top
GRADUATION
All baccalaureate degrees at
CSUS require completion of seven basic requirements.
- Total Units (132 for
nursing);
- General Education (48-51)
units depending on Catalog rights) (some prerequisite courses can be used
for G.E.);History and Government (can meet G.E.);
- English Composition
(a prerequisite and G.E. requirement;
- Writing Proficiency
(students are exempt only if they attended a community college or
CSUS system immediately prior to Fall 1979, or petition for acceptance of
equivalent requirement from another school [See University Catalog]);
- Major (completion of
five semesters in clinical sequence);
- GPA (2.75 minimum required
for admission, and 2.0 overall required in nursing courses).
All requirements must
be met. Students must pay particular attention to the TOTAL NUMBER OF
UNITS. Meeting GE and Nursing major requirements may NOT meet
the required 132 units.
University
Deadlines
When
you are in the fourth clinical semester of the major, it is important to complete
a Graduation Contract for the University. Second degree students may be advised
by the University to complete a Graduation Contract sooner. The dates are
printed in the Class Schedule and contracts are available in Lassen Hall (Lassen
111F). An appointment must be made with your major
advisor well before the deadline. It is important to complete
the contract on time as requirements are reviewed before your last semester.
This allows for any necessary adjustments in course scheduling and priority
registration is guaranteed.
When
completing the contract, please consider the following:
- Catalog of Graduation
Choice - You may select from three different catalogs to meet
- major requirements;
- G.E.;
- all other University
requirements (see CSUS catalog for definition of catalog rights).
- The form
does not provide space for more than one catalog choice although you may
be eligible. If a student is eligible for an earlier catalog which exempts
them from new G.E. or Writing Proficiency requirements, the Evaluations
Office will note this on the form returned to the student after the contract
is evaluated.
- If the catalog differs
from the course(s) taken during clinical, the student must asterisk (*)
the course and explain under the Waiver or Substitution section why there
is a difference.
Since
Nursing majors are screened for prerequisites prior to admission, it is NOT
necessary to list prerequisites on the form.
Catalog
Rights
If
you have Catalog Rights before Fall of 1998, you are not required to
complete NURS 169 for graduation. The course is strongly recommended for entry
into professional practice. All others admitted Fall 1998 or more recent must
enroll in the course.
G.E.
and Upper Division Requirements
As
mentioned in the above information, the nursing major has 132 total units
which include: G.E. (48-51 units, depending on Catalog), prerequisite courses
(some will meet G.E.), and nursing major courses (54-57 units). If prerequisite
courses are used to meet G.E., the overlapping course(s) will count only once
for total number of units.
Students
with older catalog rights which require upper division related courses used
for the major, cannot use these courses to meet G.E. requirements. See Class
Schedule for update on G.E. limitations.
The
Academic Advising Center (Lassen 105) has a wealth of information for students
regarding G.E. requirements.
Transfer
students to CSUS will have G.E. courses taken at other institutions evaluated
for equivalency (Lassen 111F) and an admission evaluation should be received
by the end of the first semester at CSUS. Retain a copy of this evaluation
as it is useful for advising.
Second
Baccalaureate
Students
with a prior baccalaureate degree are considered post-baccalaureate students
and automatically fulfill G.E. requirements, except for the state requirement
of U.S. History and State and Local Government. College courses taken elsewhere
may be transferred to CSUS, but must be equivalent to approved courses (see
Class Schedule for History and Government Courses). The requirement may also
be met through challenge examination.
Pinning
Ceremony
The
pinning ceremony is a time when students reflect on the past five semesters,
the support received from family and friends, and the prospects for the future
in a professional nursing role. Faculty and staff plan and conduct the ceremony,
which is scheduled immediately after commencement ceremonies, the same day.
Each graduating class will have a faculty advisor assigned in first semester.
The class is responsible for the arrangements and cost of the reception following
pinning.
Commencement
Attendance
The
University Commencement exercises are held at the end of the Fall and Spring
semesters for graduates completing the Program in Summer, Fall or Spring.
Attendance is not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended. The commencement
is the official time for the University to honor its graduates. It also is
a time for students to express their support for the University. Those students
completing in a summer semester may participate in either Spring or Fall Commencement.
Top
WRITING PROFICIENCY
EXAM
Dates
for the Written Proficiency Exam (WPE)
CSUS
Catalog pages on the WPE
IMPORTANT NOTICE
As you
are preparing to file your Bachelor’s Degree Graduation Application, you should
be reminded that passing the Writing Proficiency Exam is a graduation requirement
for all students graduating under a 1979-80 or subsequent Catalog. Graduate
students are also expected to have demonstrated writing proficiency at the
undergraduate level. For the location of further information on these requirements
for undergraduate and graduate students, check the index of your CSU catalog
under “Writing Proficiency Requirement”.
Since
no one is excused from the Writing Proficiency Requirement for any reason,
it is recommended that students satisfy this requirement as early as possible
in order to avoid delaying graduation plans. Students who fail the Writing
Proficiency Exam, for example, may need to take courses in expository writing,
attend counseling sessions, take workshops, and study with tutors in order
to bring their writing up to college-level proficiency. Since a passing score
on the Writing Proficiency Exam is also a prerequisite for Advanced Study
Courses (another graduation requirement), graduation plans can be further
delayed by a failure to attend to the Writing Proficiency Requirement as early
as possible.
The Writing
Proficiency Exam is offered in October, January and March of each academic
year and once in the summer. Juniors and seniors are encouraged to take the
WPE at the earliest administration possible. For instance, if juniors need
a passing score on the WPE as a prerequisite for a course in the spring semester,
they should take the examination in the summer or in October. Results from
the January administration of the examination come too late to be of use in
assigning courses in the CAR (Computer Assisted Registration) for the spring
semester.
For precise
dates and information on how to register for the exam you may call the Testing
Center (278-6296; Lassen 202) or the WPE Office (278-6409; English 111).
Top
LEARNING
RESOURCES
Library
The
University Library is an important support for the nursing program. Learning
to use its extensive resources is essential to achieving the program objectives.
If you are not familiar with the CSUS Library, it is highly recommended that
you attend a library orientation. They are scheduled at varying times at
the beginning of the semester.
The
third floor in the Library houses the Science and Technology Reference Department.
You will probably use this section more than others. There are reference
librarians in this section who can help you use the various literature review
references and who can initiate a computer reference search. One reference
essential for survival is the Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health
Literature (CINAHL). The Library and the Division of Nursing each have
a slide-tape presentation, which instructs students in how to use this index.
It is entitled “Diane Discovers the Red Books”. These indexes are housed
in the Science section of the library. You may want to check with the librarian
on how to use CINAHL on the web.
Recommended
Texts
In
addition to the required textbooks for each course, faculty make available
to students, through the campus bookstore, a variety of resource books and
supplemental texts. Purchase of recommended texts is optional, but students
find the addition of these books valuable throughout the program, and later
in practice. A medical dictionary and a laboratory data interpretation
book are essential resources.
Used
Books
Although
the majority of nursing students opt to keep their textbooks for future
reference, books can be resold to the University Bookstore, and if scheduled
for use the subsequent semester, are available for purchase by nursing students
in following semesters.
Nursing
Skills Laboratory/Resource Center
The
Division of Nursing staffs a Skills Lab/Resource Center for students in
the clinical nursing program. The Lab offers media viewing, simulation
of clinical skills, auto-tutorial learning such as modules, and instructional
support to all nursing courses are availible. Information for use of the
Skills Lab/Resource Center follows:
-
Hours:
Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Lab office (El Dorado
Hall Annex, room 1044) will be closed for a one hour lunch period during
which time assistance will not be available.
-
Telephone:
278-7227. Students may not use phones for off campus calls except
in cases of emergency and then by permission. Pay phones are located
in front of the Public Services Building adjacent to the Nursing Building
and in front of the Nursing Building.
-
Daily
Room Schedule: The location of classes, seminars, or meetings scheduled
for the day is posted on the wall at the front reception counter.
-
On-Campus
Lab: Each student is accountable for a minimum of three hours a week
for each class with a clinical component.
-
Beds:
PLEASE KEEP EVERYTHING OFF CLASSROOM BEDS! Linens can only be
changed once a semester. Please do not use the beds as a repository for
books, coats, etc.
Skill
Labs
The
skill labs are located in ELD 1001, 1002, 1003, 1005 and 1006. The labs provide
equipment for practicing many levels of nursing skills. It is recommended
that students utilize these labs to master the basic skills (such as injections,
medicine administration, catheter insertion, etc) before entering the clinical
setting. An IV simulation system (CathSim) is available to practice IV's for
adult and pediatric patients in ELD 1043 (Nursing Resource Center). Faculty
for each semester will establish practice sessions at the beginning of the
semester.
-
Do
not use any lubricant or adhesive tape on any of the hospital dolls, parts,
beds or counters.
-
Hospital
dolls should be placed one-in-a-bed or else seated in a chair.
-
Clean
up lab after use:
-
Beds
should be straightened and equipment used put back in its original
position.
-
Place
used linen in hampers (except for linen used for positioning).
-
Empty
cups and clutter should be disposed of in wastebasket.
-
Keep
shoes off of beds and linens.
-
Set-ups
for held-over labs should be labeled "DO NOT DISTURB".
-
No
equipment should be discarded from labs without checking with the semester
using it (old IV's, dressing kits, etc are given to students to practice
with at home).
-
TV
equipment, 35mm slide, students supervised by designated, and trained
faculty or lab assistants may only use overhead and multi-media projectors.
-
Reservations
for use of the labs will be made with the instructional support assistant
in ELD 1044. Phone: 278-7227.
-
All
used needles and syringes are to be placed in the marked impermeable containers
located in the Skills Lab. Failure to safeguard these materials is unsafe
practice and may result in lab privileges being revoked.
-
The
Nursing Resource Center has Self-Learning Modules, AV viewing, and space
for non-scheduled group meetings, etc.
Student Learning Resource
Center. The division of Nrsing has a student center located the EL Dorado
Hall Annex, Room 1043. It includes the following resources:
-
Self-istruction
Lab.
Computers and VCRs with TVs are available to review self-instructional
products and HVS videotapes. There are a few CBT media and videotapes
available; therefore, they can only be used in the lab.
-
Intravenous
Training Lab.
This lab has two CATHSIM Intravenous Training Systems. It is a PC based
program used for practicing and training in intravenous catheterization
procedures.
-
Gail
Kirn's Media Library
There are a limited number of articles, journals, books, CBT media and
videotapes available through the Fail Ken's Media Library. The Instruction
Support Assistant is more than willing to help you. Because these items
are few, you cannot checkout journals, books, articles, or videotapes.
Most materials need to be used in the Gail Kirn’s Media Library.
-
Printer/Scanner/Copier-
There are two PSC's in the LRC privided by CNSA. Students may use these
to print from the computers, to scan items, or to make a color copy. Due
to high cost of paper and ink cartridges, students are encouraged to make
donations to the CNSA PSC fund donation box. Students wishing to make
black and white copies are asked to use the copy machine located at teh
front of El Dorado Hall or elsewhere on campus.
Photocopying
of materials: Not all papers may be copied. The deadline for taking material
for copying is 3:30 p.m. This deadline has been established to insure
return of materials to the Skills Lab by 4:00 p.m.
Student
use of Division's Equipment
Nursing
students may checkout only the following for a short period of time:
-
35mm
Slide Projector
Overhead Projector
Audio Player/Recorder
Nurse Recruiting Video
Baby Dolls (Older Models)
Breast/Testicle models
Doppler (Old Model)
BP Cuffs
Stethoscope
-
Students
may use the following equipment outside of ELD if accompanied by Faculty/Staff (1
day)
Laptop computer
LCD Projector
-
Non-Nursing
Students attending nursing courses may not check out equipment for use
outside of ELD Classroom
-
Checkout
Policy: All equipment and material will be signed out through the Instructional
Support Office.
Lost
or Missing Property
Selected
University and/or College property signed out for authorized educational purposes
lost or stolen while in the possession of the student; it is the student's
responsibility to replace it. Failure to replace the property may result in
the withholding of grades. Please see your instructor for information about
replacement.
Top
DIVISION
PERSONNEL
Faculty
- Currently there are
25 full-time faculty, a Division Chairperson, and several part-time faculty
teaching in the undergraduate and graduate nursing programs, the School
Nurse Credential Program, and General Education courses. All full-time
faculty have at least a master’s degree in nursing and the majority have
doctoral degrees. Release time may be granted to faculty members to participate
in special projects, such as research, grant writing, or doctoral coursework.
Part-time faculty are used in place of faculty who have been granted release
time or who are on leaves or approved reduced workloads.
- More than one faculty
member may be assigned to a course and be responsible for course development,
arrangement of clinical experiences, and supervision of students in the
clinical areas.
- The Chairperson of
the Division of Nursing holds ultimate responsibility for all educational
offerings within the Division. The Chairperson is available for student
appointments and to assist students and faculty to achieve program goals
and resolve any concerns which arise (and provide chocolate).
Staff
See
the Administrative Support Coordinator II (Room 1022) to schedule an appointment
with the Chair. The faculty secretaries and student assistants are responsible
for instructional materials and faculty support. The Instructional Support
Assistant manages the Skills Lab/Nursing Resource Center and coordinates use
of Division classrooms.
Faculty
Appointments
Each
faculty member is required to post three hours a week designated as office
hours for student conferences. These appointment are entered into an electronic
calendar that the front office staff has access to. Please stop in and speak
to the receptionist or call the Division of Nursing at (916) 278-6525 to see
what hours your faculty advisor has availible. If the designated hours are
incompatible with the student’s schedule, the student may make individual
arrangements with the instructor.
Division
Office
- Telephone: 278-6525.
- The workrooms, 1015,
1016, 1017, and 1025 are for staff and faculty use only. Students are
not permitted in these areas.
Top
ADDITIONAL
EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
One
of the specific purposes of the Baccalaureate Nursing program is to prepare
a generalist in nursing practice who is able to use the nursing process with
individuals and groups in a variety of settings. Students are encouraged
to select a variety of Electives and General Education courses to provide
them with a broad-based liberal arts and professional education. Minors in
a variety of related areas (20 units) are available on campus. Also N195
and N199 courses (Independent Studies), are available to meet individual student
needs. These courses must have faculty advisor approval. Contracts and specific
learning objectives must be negotiated between the student and faculty member
sponsoring the individualized study.
Top
CREDIT
BY EXAMINATION (Challenge)
The
University offers the opportunity to earn credit by examination to students,
who by reason of special study, experience or training, already possess specific
skills, knowledge, and attitudes, that are the objectives of a given course.
The
University allows a maximum credit of thirty (30) units to be obtained
by examination, i.e., “challenged.” Courses may
be challenged only once. Failed courses may not be challenged.
Students may receive credit by examination for the following Nursing courses,
keeping in mind only thirty (30) units will be accepted:
N12 Nursing Care of Adults - 5 Units
N15 Introduction to Clinical Nursing Practices - 3 Units
N16 Physical Assessment of the Adult
N17 Concepts and Practices of Gerontological Nursing - 2 Units
N123
Nursing Families in Complex Illness - 6 Units
N128 Therapeutic Interpersonal and Group Communication in Nursing - 1 Unit
(Content from this course is incorporated into N111B and N129 AP Exam)
N129 Mental Health Nursing - 5 Units
N136
Nursing the Childbearing Family: Skills and Assessment - 1 Unit
N137 Nursing the Childbearing Family - 5 Units
N138 Nursing the Childrearing Family - 5 Units
N139 Nursing the Childrearing Family: Skills and Assessment - 1 Unit
DIVISION POLICIES/PROCEDURES
RELATED TO CREDIT BY EXAMINATION:
- Students may take challenge
examination only after admission to the Clinical Nursing Major.
- N12, N15, N16 and N17
are challenged by instructor made examinations following the University
challenge procedures.
- Register for the
course.
- Obtain permission
from the Instructor of Record for the course to be challenged.
- Take the faculty-developed
challenge examination during the first two weeks of the semester in
which you have registered for the course.
- Successful passing
of the challenge examination will result in a credit for the course.
Complete an application for Course Credit by Challenge Examination Form
available in the Division of Nursing. Should the student be unsuccessful
in the challenge process, she/he will be able to continue in the course.
- N123, N128, N129, N136,
N137, N138 and N139 consists of two (2) parts: a written examination (the
Mobility Profile Examination), and a clinical component.
-
The
Mobility Profile examination, as developed by the National League
for Nursing, consists of three (3) parts:
-
In addition to completion of the Mobility Profile I, II, III examination(s),
each student must complete a clinical component to the challenge process.
|
Mobility
Profile Examination
Book I |
Mobility
Profile Examination
Book II |
Mobility
Profile Examination
Book III |
| Care
of the Adult Client |
Section
I: Care of the Client During Child bearing
Section II: Care of the Child |
Care
of the Client with Mental Disorder |
| These
exams are subject to revision by the publisher, National League for
Nursing (NLN). There is a $68.97 fee payable by the student for each
examination book taken. FEES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE by the NLN. |
-
Credit/No
Credit grading will be used for courses that are challenged.
-
Each
course may be challenged only once by examination Students who
fail the challenge examination will be expected to take the course.
-
All
students must complete the NLN challenge exams by November 1 and
the clinical components by December 1 for placement in the spring
semester. Examinations must be completed by April 1 for
NLN exams and May 1 for clinical components for placement in the
fall semester.
-
If
a student has successfully challenged a course, the student need not attend
the course. Credit for the course is received after the student registers
for the course in the usual manner and submits an Application for Course
Credit by Challenge Examinations to the Division of Nursing Office.
-
If
a student who is eligible for credit by examination decides to take the
course, in lieu of or after failing the exam, the same objectives and
number of clinical practicum hours will be required as for other students
in the course. However, the instructor and student may develop an individual
contract for clinical course work to individualize and enhance the learning
experiences of the student.
STUDENTS
MUST SEE THEIR FACULTY ADVISOR FOR SPECIFIC INFORMATION REGARDING THE CREDIT
BY EXAMINATION PROCESS. THESE GUIDELINES ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY
AND DO NOT REPLACE THE NEED FOR INDIVIDUAL ADVISING.
PROCEDURE:
To seek credit by examination, for N123, N128 N136, N 137, N138 and N139,
the student who has been admitted to the Baccalaureate Nursing Program, or
LVN 30-Unit Option should:
-
The
student must pick-up from the Division of Nursing’s Challenge Registration
Intent Notice form. It is the student’s responsibility to obtain the
appropriate faculty signature, as indicated below:
- LVNs:
need to obtain LVN Advisor’s signature
- Generic Students:
need to obtain signature of Instructor of Record for course to be
challenged.
-
Pay fees so NLN exam can be ordered. Students must complete the Application
for Course Credit by Challenge Examination form, available in the Division
Office, before the end of the semester in which the examination was taken
for each course that is challenged.
-
Make
appointment in Division of Nursing or Testing Center to take the exam.
-
The
examination(s) will be forwarded to NLN for scoring. The Division of
Nursing and the student will receive notification of the score obtained
on the examination(s).