Nursing Student Handbook 2020-2021

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Associate

Degree
Nursing
Student Handbook
2020-2021

The nursing program at LRCC is accredited by the Accreditation


Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Questions about accreditation of the nursing program should be
addressed to the Accreditation Commission for Education in
Nursing, 3343 Peachtree Rd, NE, Suite 850, Atlanta, Ga. 30326.
Phone (404) 975-5000.
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION...............................................................................................................3
ACCREDITATION.............................................................................................................3
MISSION STATEMENT....................................................................................................4
VISION................................................................................................................................4
NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION…………………………………………………4

PHILOSOPHY....................................................................................................................5
ORGANIZING FRAMEWORK.........................................................................................5
PROGRAM OUTCOMES...................................................................................................6
END OF PROGRAM STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES...........................................8
COURSE OFSTUDY…………………………………………………………………….7

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS………………………………………………………………8
FINANCIAL AID..............................................................................................................10
NURSING SCHOLARSHIPS...........................................................................................10
FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHT AND PRIVACY ACT OF 1974 (FERPA).............10
AMERICAN NURSES ASSOCIATION CODE OF ETHICS FOR NURSES................12
TIPS FOR USING SOCIAL MEDIA................................................................................12
ANA’S PRINCIPLES FOR SOCIAL NETWORKING...................................................13
TESTING POLICIES........................................................................................................15
STUDENT EVALUATION POLICY...............................................................................16
GUIDELINES FOR WRITTEN ASSIGNMENTS...........................................................16
ASSESSMENT TECHNOLOGIES INSTITUTE (ATI)...................................................17
CANVAS...........................................................................................................................17
STUDENT INFORMATION SYSTEM (SIS)..................................................................17
FACULTY ADVISOR POLICY.......................................................................................18
CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK............................................................................18
USE OF ELECTRONIC DEVICES..................................................................................19
CLASSROOM RECORDING POLICY...........................................................................20
ATTENDANCE................................................................................................................20
CLASSROOM BEHAVIOR.............................................................................................20
PROFESSIONAL BEHAVIOR........................................................................................21
GRIEVANCE POLICY.....................................................................................................21
Nursing Student Handbook 2020-21
ACADEMIC DISHONESTY............................................................................................23
ACADEMIC WARNING..................................................................................................23
ACADEMIC FAILURE....................................................................................................23
DRUG AND ALCOHOL SCREENING...........................................................................23
RE-ADMISSION POLICY / PROCEDURE....................................................................24
STUDENT GOVERNANCE.............................................................................................24
PROGRAM ADVISORY COMMITTEE.........................................................................25
PROGRAM ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS.....................................................25
PINNING...........................................................................................................................25
CLINICAL BEHAVIOR...................................................................................................25
PRE-CLINICAL DRUG TESTING..................................................................................26
CLINICAL AFFILIATION POLICY...............................................................................26
CONFIDENTIALITY.......................................................................................................27
CLINICAL DRESS POLICY............................................................................................28
STUDENT CLINICAL ORIENTATION.........................................................................32
MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION POLICIES............................................................33
CLINICAL WARNING....................................................................................................34
CLINICAL FAILURE.......................................................................................................35
UNSAFE/UNPROFESSIONAL STUDENT NURSE PRACTICE..................................35
NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK ACCOUNTABILITY..........................................37

Nursing Student Handbook 2020-21


INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this handbook is to provide the nursing student with a complete resource
of the academic and clinical expectations specific to the LRCC Nursing Program. These
policies are designed to promote mutual understanding, respect, and cooperation between
the student and the nursing faculty. These standards facilitate the accomplishment of the
student learning outcomes and the program outcomes necessary to satisfactorily complete
the Associate Degree Nursing Program. Students will be notified via Email of any
changes in the handbook. Updates on standards, policies or procedures will be posted on
Blackboard.

Read this handbook carefully as you are accountable for adhering to these policies. If
you do not understand or are uncertain of specific actions outlined within these policies,
you are urged to consult a member of the nursing faculty or the department chair for
clarification.

ACCREDITATION

Lakes Region Community College is accredited by the New England Association of


Schools and Colleges (NEASC)

Lakes Region Community College nursing program is approved by:


The New Hampshire Board of Nursing
121 Fruit St.
Concord NH 03301
(603) 271-3822

Lakes Region Community College Nursing program is accredited by


The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
3343 Peachtree Rd, NE
Suite 850
Atlanta, Ga. 30326
(404) 975-5000

Nursing Student Handbook 2020-21


MISSION STATEMENT

The nursing department accepts and aligns itself with the mission of Lakes Region
Community College.

The mission of the Lakes Region Community College Associate Degree Nursing
Program is to prepare compassionate health care professionals whose practice is holistic,
scientifically based, and technically competent. The mission is to provide all students
with a quality education that affords each graduate the opportunity to enter the healthcare
profession in their community and to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing.

VISION

The Lakes Region Community College Associate Degree Nursing Program will
continuously strive to provide New Hampshire with a sustainable health care workforce
consisting of well-prepared, licensed registered nurses who will meet the future
demographic and healthcare needs of the residents of New Hampshire.

NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION

Lakes Region Community College does not discriminate in the administration of its
admissions and educational programs, activities, or employment practices on the basis of
race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, disability, gender identity and expression,
genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or marital status. This statement is
a reflection of the mission of the Community College System of New Hampshire and
LRCC and refers to, but is not limited to, the provisions of the following laws:

Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964


The Age Discrimination Act of 1967
Title IX of the Education Amendment of 1972
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA)
Section 402 of the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974
NH Law Against Discrimination (RSA 354-A)
Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008

Inquiries regarding discrimination may be directed to Larissa Baia, Lakes Region


Community College, (603) 524-3207, or to Sara A. Sawyer, Director of Human
Resources for the Community College System of New Hampshire, 26 College Drive,
Concord, NH 03301, (603) 230-3503. Inquiries may also be directed to the US
Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights, J.W. McCormack Post Office and
Courthouse, Room 701, 01-0061, Boston, MA, 02109-4557, 617-223-9662, FAX: 617-
223-9669, TDD:617-223-9695, or Email: OCR_Boston@ed.gov ; the NH Commission
for Human Rights, 2 Chennell Drive, Concord, NH 03301, 603-271-2767, Fax: 603-271-
6339; and/or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, JFK Federal Building,

Nursing Student Handbook 2020-21


475 Government Center, Boston, MA, 02203, 617-565-3200 or 1-800-669-4000, FAX:
617-565-3196, TTY: 617-565-3204 or 1-800-669-6820.

PHILOSOPHY

Our nursing program emphasizes evidence-based education, which reflects contemporary


principles, values, and practices adapted from Quality and Safety Education for Nurses
and the Massachusetts Nurse of the Future competencies in order to meet the unique
needs of individuals and select groups within a community.

Our nursing faculty is committed to fostering an environment of collaborative learning.


This learning environment insists on active participation of the student to engage in
behaviors that develop higher order thinking. Nursing faculty will provide a variety of
learning activities to assist the student in acquiring knowledge, attitudes and skills
necessary to provide safe patient centered care.

ORGANIZING FRAMEWORK

Lakes Region Community College Associate Degree Nursing Program

Professional nursing practice is grounded in the biological, psychological, sociological,


and spiritual sciences. It is devoted to promoting, maintaining, and restoring the health of
individuals, families, and selected groups as well as supporting a peaceful, dignified
death. Registered nurses are members of the health care team and as such, care for
diverse individuals and families across the lifespan in a variety of inpatient and
community-based settings by providing culturally sensitive, individualized, patient
centered care.

Registered nurses recognize that interdisciplinary collaboration among health care


professionals is critical to delivering safe, quality patient care. Ongoing quality
improvement activities are performed in concert with other members of the health care
team. Application of evidence based practice, skills in informatics, and patient care
technology is essential to the delivery of quality care while ensuring safety.

Professional values guide interactions with individuals, families, and the health care
team. Registered nurses demonstrate professional conduct by exhibiting accountability
for their actions, practicing within their scope of practice, and assuming legal
responsibility for the care they provide. Registered nurses uphold their commitment to
the public by adhering to an established code of ethics, which provides a context for
making judgments and offers guidelines for maintaining professionalism.

The major roles of the registered nurse include provider of nursing care, coordinator of
patient care, and member of the nursing profession. As providers of care, registered
nurses promote wellness, identify current and emerging patient problems, and function as
advocates for individuals, families and selected groups. In addition, registered nurses
manage patient care using clinical judgment, incorporating the nursing process and caring

Nursing Student Handbook 2020-21


as essential tools. As coordinators of care, registered nurses communicate, collaborate,
and provide leadership within the interdisciplinary health care team while demonstrating
responsiveness to the larger context of the healthcare system to promote and maintain
patient health and ensure continuity of care.

As members of the profession, registered nurses are accountable for maintaining


professionally established standards of nursing practice, adhering to practice regulations
specified by each respective state, as well as adhering to established legal and ethical
directives. Lifelong learning is a means of assuring that practice is continually based on
current knowledge. In addition, continued formal education provides an opportunity for
personal advancement within the profession.

PROGRAM OUTCOMES

1. Aggregate three-year performance on the NCLEX-RN Licensure Exam (NCLEX-


RN) will be at or above the national mean for the same three years.

2. The program completion rate at 150% (6 semesters) will be at a 3 year mean of


50% or above.

3. Student nurse satisfaction scores will register at an aggregate mean of 4.0 or


above, using a five-point Likert scale on the End of Program survey.

4. Employer Satisfaction scores will be at an aggregate mean of 4.0 using a five


point Likert scale six months to twelve months post-graduation.

5. Job placement rates will be at or above 85% or greater six to twelve months post-
licensure.

Nursing Student Handbook 2020-21


OUTCOME DATA

Lakes Region Class of Class of Class of Class of Class of


Community 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
College
Nursing Student
Achievement
Outcomes

LRCC NCLEX-RN 93.30% 93.75% 100% 100% 100%


Examination Pass
Rate (First time test
takers)

National NCLEX- 84.53% 84.39% 86.7% 88.29% 88.18%


RN Pass Rate

NH NCLEX-RN 87.02% 87.44% 91.5% 93.21 95.68%


Pass Rate

Program 76.5.0% 53% 46% 63% 62%


Completion Rate

Graduate Job 92.00% 100% 100% 100% 100%


Placement Rate

Nursing Student Handbook 2020-21


END OF PROGRAM STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES

1. Plan and deliver safe, legal, and ethical patient-centered care to culturally and
developmentally diverse patients using the nursing process

2. Practice collaboratively throughout the health care system on a multi-professional


healthcare team to achieve shared foals using principles of communication,
leadership, and management.

3. Support a culture of continuous evidence-based quality improvement by using


data to monitor outcomes and identify and report actual or potential problems.

4. Use health care system resources and technology to coordinate and deliver
individual and/or population- focused care that is safe, effective and efficient.

5. Demonstrate professional accountability using legal, ethical, and regulatory


guidelines.

6. Participate in activities that contribute to life-long learning.

Course of Study
Class of 2018
LRCC Nursing
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Level One

NURS1320L Nursing I

This course provides an introduction to nursing and roles of the nurse in a variety of
healthcare systems as well as profession related and patient care concepts. Emphasis is
placed on the knowledge and skills needed to provide safe, quality care. The theoretical
foundation for basic assessment is integrated with nursing skills. The student is given an
opportunity to demonstrate these skills in the clinical and laboratory setting. An
introduction to the nursing process provides a decision-making framework to assist
students in developing effective clinical judgment skills. (Prerequisite: Admission to the
ADN nursing program. Co-requisite: SCI1450L with a minimum grade of C)

NURS1420L Nursing II

Nursing Student Handbook 2020-21


This course focuses on the nursing care of the adult patient with health alterations that
require medical and/or surgical intervention. Emphasis is placed on health assessment
and care of patients with alterations in selected body functions. Concepts of patient
centered care, cultural sensitivity, informatics, safe practice, and professionalism are
integrated throughout the course. Clinical experiences provide the student an opportunity
to apply theoretical concepts and implement safe patient care to adults in a variety of
medical surgical settings. (Prerequisites: NURS1320L Nursing I with a minimum grade
of B-, SCI1450L, with a minimum grade of C, Co-requisites SCI1460L, PSYC1250L,
and PSYC1260L)

Level Two
NURS2220L Nursing III

This course is comprised of two components: caring for patients with complex
Medical/Surgical alterations and caring for patients with Mental Health Alterations.

Medical/Surgical: This portion of the course focuses on the care of adult patients with
complex medical and surgical health problems. Emphasis is placed on helping patients
and their families cope with alterations in body functions. Concepts of pharmacology,
health promotion and education, evidence based practice, and interdisciplinary
collaboration will be integrated throughout the course. Clinical learning experiences
provide an opportunity to apply theoretical concepts and implement safe care to patients
and selected groups in a variety of medical surgical settings.

Mental Health: This portion of the course provides a concentrated experience in the
specialty area of mental health nursing by addressing the nursing care of pediatric, adult,
and geriatric clients with a variety of psychiatric disorders and mental health alterations
to include those related to crisis, addiction, and suicide. Emphasis is placed on using
effective therapeutic communication techniques, completing a psychiatric nursing
assessment, discussion of psychotropic medications and maintaining patient safety as a
member of an interdisciplinary team in the care of individuals with mental health needs.
Clinical learning experiences include the classroom, simulated learning environment, and
patient care settings. (Prerequisite: NURS1320L Nursing I and NURS1420L Nursing II
with a minimum grade of B-, SCI1450L, SCI1460L, PSYC1250L, PSYC1260L with a
minimum grade of C, Co-requisite SCI2410L)

NURS2320L Nursing IV

Nursing IV has three components: Leadership and Management, care of Medical/Surgical


patients with multisystem disorders and Maternal, Newborn, Pediatrics & Reproductive
Health.
Leadership & Management: Emphasis is placed on contemporary issues and
management concepts, as well as developing the skills of delegation, conflict
management, and leadership. Legal and ethical issues are discussed with a focus on
personal accountability and responsibility. Students will use health literacy strategies
to identify education needs of a patient in the community. They will use data from a
comprehensive assessment to develop an education plan that addresses knowledge
Nursing Student Handbook 2020-21
deficits related to management of chronic disease including medications, nutrition,
health promotion and community resources. Using technology students will present
their project to their peers for feedback.

Section II: Medical Surgical Multisystem: This content focuses on advanced


concepts of nursing care as they relate to patients across the lifespan with complex,
multisystem alterations in health. Emphasis is placed on implementing time
management and organizational skills while managing the care of patients with
multiple needs and collaborating with the interdisciplinary team. Complex clinical
skills, as well as priority setting, clinical judgment, and tenets of legal and ethical
practice, are integrated throughout the course. Clinical experiences provide the
student an opportunity to apply theoretical concepts and implement safe care to
patients and selected groups in a variety of settings.

Section III: Maternal, Newborn & Pediatrics & Reproductive Health: This
content provides an integrative, family-centered approach to the care of mothers,
newborns, and children. Emphasis is placed on normal and high-risk pregnancies,
normal growth and development, family dynamics, common pediatric disorders and
the promotion of healthy behaviors in families. Clinical experiences provide the
student an opportunity to apply theoretical concepts and implement safe patient care
to families (this includes childbearing women, newborns, children and adults with
reproductive health alterations) in selected settings.

FINANCIAL AID

Nursing students are eligible for financial aid. Please refer to the college student
handbook or the college website for information related to financial aid.

NURSING SCHOLARSHIPS

There are a number of scholarships available specifically for nursing students. Some of
these include:

GOFFER Fund

Alice M. Yarnold and Samuel Yarnold Scholarship Trust

Altrusa International of Laconia, NH

Foundation of the National Student Nurses Association

Additional scholarships are also available. Please refer to the college website for details.

Nursing Student Handbook 2020-21


FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHT AND PRIVACY ACT OF 1974 (FERPA)

The Family Educational Right and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights
with respect to their education records. These rights include:

The right to inspect and view the student's education records within 45 days of the day
the college receives a request for access. Students should submit written requests that
identify the record(s) they wish to inspect to the Registrar, Vice President of Student
Affairs or the appropriate official. The college official will make arrangement for access
and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be. If the records are
not maintained by the college official to whom the request was submitted, that official
should advise the student of correct official to whom the request should be addressed.

The right to request the amendment of the student's education records that the student
believes is are incorrect or misleading. Students may ask the college to amend a record
that they believe is incorrect or misleading. They should write the college official
responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and
specify why it is incorrect or misleading. If the college decides not to amend the record as
requested by the student, the college will notify the student of the decision and advise the
student of his or her right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional
information regarding the hearing procedure will be provided to the student when notified
of the right to a hearing.

The right to consent to disclosures of personally-identifiable information contained in the


student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure
without consent. One exception which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to
school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person
employed by the college in an administrative, supervisory, academic, research or support
staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person or
company with whom the college has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor or collection
agent); a person serving on the Board of Trustees; or student serving on an official
committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school
official in performing his or her task. A school official has a legitimate educational
interest if the official needs to view an education record in order to fulfill his or her
professional responsibility.

The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged
failure by the college to comply with requirements of FERPA. Students may request
release of college records by completing the Authorization for Release of Records form.

Disabilities Services
It is the mission of Lakes Region Community College’s Disabilities Services to provide
equal educational access, opportunities, and experiences to all qualified students with
documented disabilities who register with the college’s Disabilities Services office.
Reasonable accommodations are provided to students to allow them to achieve at a level

Nursing Student Handbook 2020-21


limited only by their abilities and not their disabilities. Assistance is provided in a
collaborative way to help students develop strong and effective independent learning and
self-advocacy skills, as they assume responsibility for reaching their academic goals.
Contact Maureen Baldwin at mbaldwin@ccsnh.edu or call 524-3207.

AMERICAN NURSES ASSOCIATION CODE OF ETHICS FOR NURSES

1. The nurse practices with compassion and respect for the inherent dignity, worth,
and uniqueness of every person.
2. The nurse’s primary commitment is to the patient, whether an individual, family,
group, community, or population.
3. The nurse promotes, advocates for, and strives to protect the rights, health, and
safety, of the patient.
4. The nurse has the authority, accountability and responsibility for nursing practice;
makes decisions; and takes action consistent with the obligation to promote health
provide optimal care.
5. The nurse owes the same duties to self as to others, including the responsibility to
promote health and safety, preserve wholeness of character and integrity, maintain
competence, and continue personal and professional growth.
6. The nurse, through individual and collective effort establishes, maintains, and
improves the ethical environment of the work setting and conditions of
employment that are conducive to safe, quality health care.
7. The nurse participates in the advancement of the profession through research and
scholarly inquiry, professional standards development, and the generation of both
nursing and health policy.
8. The nurse collaborates with other health professionals and the public to protect
human rights, promote health diplomacy and reduce health disparities.
9. The profession of nursing, collectively through its professional organizations,
must articulate nursing values, maintain the integrity of the profession, and
integrate principles of social justice into nursing health policy.

Nursing Student Handbook 2020-21


TIPS FOR USING SOCIAL MEDIA

Social networks and the internet provide unparalleled opportunities for rapid knowledge
exchange and dissemination among many people, but this exchange does not come
without risk. Nurses and nursing students have an obligation to understand the nature,
benefits, and consequences of participating in social networking of all types. Online
content and behavior has the potential to enhance or undermine not only the individual
nurse’s career, but also the nursing profession.

ANA’S PRINCIPLES FOR SOCIAL NETWORKING

1. Nurses must not transmit or place online individually identifiable patient information.
2. Nurses must observe ethically prescribed professional patient – nurse boundaries.
3. Nurses should understand that patient, colleagues, institutions, and employers may
view postings.
4. Nurses should take advantage of privacy settings and seek to separate personal and
professional information online.
5. Nurses should bring content that could harm a patient’s privacy, rights, or welfare to
the attention of appropriate authorities.
6. Nurses should participate in developing institutional policies governing online conduct.

WWW. NursingWorld.org
References:
American Nurses Association. (2011, September). Principles for social networking and
the nurse. Silver Spring, MD.
National Council of State Boards of Nursing. (2011, September).
White paper: A nurse’s guide to the use of social media.
Chicago, Il.

Nursing Student Handbook 2020-21


POLICIES
AND
PROCEDURES

Policy and procedures are reviewed and updated annually. Any


nursing student policy updates or new policies will be posted on
Canvas for student review.

Nursing Student Handbook 2020-21


Academic Policy and Procedures
TESTING POLICIES

Exams
All cell phones will be turned off during unit exams and ATI proctored exams. If a
bathroom break is needed during an exam, the student’s cell phone will be handed in to
the instructor prior to leaving the classroom.

Exams will be given Face to Face. In the event that the college is required to shut down,
exams will be given remotely.

Exam Review
A review of the exam results will be done with the class after each exam. Students are
required to remove writing utensils, cell phones, books, notes, and recording devices
from their desks during exam review. The timing and length of each exam review is at
the discretion of the faculty.

Exam Question Analysis


If a single answer test question is determined to have more than one correct answer, then
that question will be discarded. Multiple answer questions must be fully answered
correctly or the question will be marked incorrect. No partial credit will be given.
The item analysis for all test questions is reviewed for any inconsistencies or errors in the
question or the test answer choice. In situations where the item analysis is an issue, the
test question will be reviewed by the writer and at least one additional faculty member for
a decision regarding keeping or discarding the question.

Grading
If a test question is discarded for any reason, the total number of questions will be
adjusted and test scores will be re-calculated.

Missed Exam
Students are expected to sit for exams when they are scheduled. If student is absent from
an exam the course faculty must be notified immediately. Documentation regarding the
reason for the absence may be required. If a student missed an exam due to illness a
doctor’s note is required. An alternate exam that covers all of the assigned material will
be given. The exam will be re-taken within 24 hours or as soon as possible. The time and
place of the exam to be re-taken will be at the faculty’s discretion.

Math Exam
Students are required to pass a math exam in each of the first three nursing courses in
order to pass medications in clinical. The exam schedule is as follows:

Nursing Course Maximum# of Attempts Minimum Passing score

Nursing Student Handbook 2020-21


Nursing I 3 90%
Nursing II 2 90%
Nursing III 2 90%

If a student is unable to pass the math exam with the minimum score, that student will be
unable to pass medications in the clinical setting. This will result in a clinical failure and
dismissal from the nursing program.

STUDENT EVALUATION POLICY

Students must achieve an 80% for each nursing course to continue in the program. An
80% must be achieved on all graded clinical paperwork. If a student receives less than an
80% on a clinical assignment, that assignment may be made up at the discretion of the
clinical faculty.

The Nursing Faculty affords the student every reasonable opportunity for success in the
Nursing Program by providing the student with systematic and ongoing evaluation of
one's academic and clinical progress.
1. The nursing faculty maintains regular office hours and is available to assist the
student in all areas of academic and clinical achievement, including simulation
laboratory. It is the responsibility of the student to seek assistance as
necessary.
2. A student that does not achieve at least an 80% on an exam, may be required to
access the tutoring services offered by the nursing department.
3. If the student is not satisfactorily meeting the academic and/or clinical objectives
as outlined in the course syllabi, an academic and/or clinical warning will be
issued.
4. At the end of each clinical rotation, a formal evaluation will be conducted with
the student and instructor utilizing the Clinical Evaluation Tool to document the
achievement of clinical objectives. An evaluation of student progress in clinical
may be done mid-way through the clinical rotation at the discretion of the clinical
faculty.
5. The Learning Resource Center provides academic counseling and tutorial services
to promote student success.

GUIDELINES FOR WRITTEN ASSIGNMENTS

Written assignments are an integral part of student learning activities in nursing courses.
These guidelines will assist the student in preparing written assignments at the college
level. Additional requirements for projects, term papers, or other learning activities may
be specified by the instructor. Assignments must be typed unless indicated otherwise by
the instructor. Assignments will be submitted through canvas unless otherwise instructed
by the course faculty.
Nursing Student Handbook 2020-21
1. The American Psychological Association (APA) format provides a standard
structure for clearly, concisely, and consistently documenting the source of data
used in the preparation of reports, nursing care plans, or other assignments.
Students must use APA, 6th edition format for all papers.

2. All written assignments for both clinical and classroom will be submitted on the
assigned due date. If a student is unable to meet the assigned due date, prior
arrangements for an extension must be made and documented with the professor
for the course. Should no mutually agreed upon arrangement be made for an
extension, or the extension date is not met, a 10% per day penalty will apply.
After seven calendar days, late assignments will not be accepted and a grade
of zero will be recorded.

3. All written clinical assignments must receive a grade of satisfactory or an 80% for
a student to continue in clinical. If a student receives a grade of unsatisfactory or
less than 80%, that student will not continue in clinical and receive an F for the
course.

4. A math competency exam will be given to level two students prior to the start of
clinical. Students will have two opportunities to achieve a minimum grade of 90%
in order to give medications in the clinical setting. If a student is unable to pass
the math competency exam after two attempts and therefore unable to pass
medications in clinical, they may be dismissed from the program.

ASSESSMENT TECHNOLOGIES INSTITUTE (ATI)

ATI provides students with learning resources throughout the program. Students are
expected to use ATI as a resource for studying and remediation for exams. Proctored
exams are given at both levels. Results of proctored exams are weighted and are factored
in to the final grade for each nursing course. Specific ATI policies are described in each
course. Orientation to ATI is provided at the beginning of the fall semester.

All level Two students will attend a live NCLEX review by ATI at the end of the last
semester of the nursing program. The review is tailored to individual outcomes on the
comprehensive predictor exam. The review is part of the nursing curriculum. The cost of
the review has been built into program fees.

CANVAS

Canvas is the new Learning management system that is replacing Blackboard. It is used
extensively in the nursing program. It is used to outline each course by week with lecture,
reading and assignment materials. Canvas is also used to post program documents,
announcements, updates, changes in policy and procedures, and grades. It is
recommended that students check Canvas and their CCSNH email every day. Students

Nursing Student Handbook 2020-21


are responsible for the content posted on Canvas. A tutorial on the use of Canvas can be
found at. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x3j8V-uLkNw

STUDENT INFORMATION SYSTEM (SIS)

Please refer to the college student handbook for information related to SIS.

FACULTY ADVISOR POLICY

In accordance with the College's faculty advisor policy, nursing faculty serve as
departmental advisors to the nursing students.
1. The faculty advisor will have access to student records while the student is
enrolled in the program. These records include transcripts, clinical evaluation
documents, verification of current health insurance, Basic Life Support (BLS)
certification, and an updated immunization record. Student records will be kept in
a centrally located, locked file.

2. The department chair will maintain all criminal records and alcohol / drug testing
results and the Bureau of Elderly and Adult Services (BEAS) registry in a locked
file. The department chair is the only member of the nursing department that has
access to this information. (See the following nursing policies for more
information: criminal background check, p.15, drug and alcohol screening, p. 21,
and pre-clinical drug testing, p. 23).

3. The advisor will meet with each advisee during the first and third semesters to
discuss progress, review transcripts and monitor completion of program
requirements for graduation.

It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that all coursework for graduation


is completed. This includes the Intent to Graduate form and a Transcript
Request form to ensure that transcripts are sent to the Board of Nursing as
part of the application to sit for the NCLEX- RN

4. Faculty-student correspondence will be maintained in the student’s record and


kept in a centrally located locked file. These include but are not limited to
letters of academic progress, academic and/or clinical warnings, and
documentation of communication between faculty and the student.

5. Access to student records is available to the individual student, and the faculty, as
needed, to verify student academic progress or compliance with program
requirements. (See FERPA policy, page 9)

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK

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The purpose of a criminal background check is to ensure client safety.
Students who refuse to complete the background check by the required date will not be
allowed to participate in clinical rotations and will be dismissed from the nursing
program. Students must complete a criminal background check and Bureau of Elderly
and Adult Services (BEAS) check prior to the start of the academic year.

Students must report any arrests and, or pending criminal charges or convictions filed
subsequent to completion of the background check to the chair of the nursing department
within five (5) school days. Failure to disclose any criminal charges may result in
suspension or dismissal from the nursing program.
.
Criminal background checks will be conducted by Castlebranch prior to starting the
nursing program. Additional background checks may be required by clinical facilities.
Students will be responsible for engaging directly with the vendor. Students will be
responsible for the financial cost for criminal background checks.

Criminal background checks will be monitored by the chair of the nursing department.
Criminal background checks of concern will be reviewed by the chair of the nursing
department. The student will then be required to follow the clinical facilities’ policy and
procedures related to follow up of adverse criminal background checks. If the facility
and/or the nursing department chair decide that a student cannot attend clinical due to an
adverse criminal background check, the student will be dismissed from the nursing
program.

USE OF ELECTRONIC DEVICES

This policy applies to the nursing program students who engage in internet conversation
for school-related purposes or school related activities such as interactions in or about
clinical and didactic course activities. Distribution of sensitive and confidential
information is protected under Health Insurance and Portability and Accountability Act
(HIPAA) and Family Education Rights and Privacy Act(FERPA) whether discussed
through traditional communication channels or through social media. Social media
examples include but are not limited to LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, Snap
Chat and Instagram
Use of electronic devices employed for social media in the clinical area is prohibited.
Cell phones will be turned off during clinical and while in the classroom.

1. No personal phone conversations or texting are allowed at any time while in


clinical areas or in the classroom.

2. Use of electronic devices during class or in clinical are allowed only with
approval of the faculty.

3. At no time shall patients be videotaped, photographed, or recorded.

4. Identifiable information concerning clients/ clinical rotations must not be posted


in any public forum.

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5. Ultimately, the individual has sole responsibility for what is posted on social
media.
6. Violation of patient privacy with an electronic device will be subject to HIPAA
procedures and consequences. Students risk disciplinary action including course
failure and dismissal from the program.

CLASSROOM RECORDING POLICY


Recording lectures is prohibited.

ATTENDANCE

1. The nursing program adheres to the LRCC Attendance Policy as set forth in the
LRCC Student Handbook, p. 30. Classroom attendance is required. Students are
required to complete 1080 hours of nursing curriculum by the New Hampshire
Board of Nursing (Rule # 602.12 (b) of the BON Rules). If these hours are not
met, the student is not eligible to sit for the licensure exam. See the LRCC
Student Handbook for the College Attendance Policy. Students are responsible
for notifying the faculty when they will be absent from class, clinical, or the
skills/simulation lab. Students must be on time for class and clinical. If a student
will be late for class, the student must notify the faculty.

2. Students may not leave any clinical physical facility or clinical experience
without faculty approval during clinical hours. If a student is unable to attend
clinical, the student must notify the unit by 0600. If a student will be late for
clinical or lab, the student must notify the clinical faculty.

3. Unforeseen circumstances such as student illness, the illness of a spouse/child,


death of an immediate family member, or inclement weather may result in
absences or tardiness. It is the responsibility of the student to make
arrangements with the faculty for make-up time which satisfactorily completes
the course objectives not achieved because of the absence. Faculty will determine
the type and amount of makeup work required to fulfill the course/clinical learning
objectives.

2. In the event of an extended illness/hospitalization (beyond two days), a doctor's


note will be required prior to returning to class. The extended absence will be
addressed by the student, and the faculty to determine the method by which the
course or clinical objectives can be satisfactorily completed.

3. No exceptions for absences due to employment conflict will be accepted.

4. Any absences from class or clinical will be reviewed by the faculty and may result
in a written academic or clinical warning. Students who do not meet attendance
requirements may be dismissed from the program.

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CLASSROOM BEHAVIOR
Academic integrity is of primary importance in the classroom. Both students and faculty
are responsible for creating and maintaining an environment that is conducive to learning.
It is imperative that students and faculty demonstrate mutual respect. Inappropriate
behaviors in the classroom may compromise the learning and performance for students.
Unacceptable and inappropriate behaviors include but are not limited to tardiness, early
departures, loud side conversations, bullying, use of electronic devices and use of
derogatory or vulgar language.

PROFESSIONAL BEHAVIOR

The Department of Nursing seeks to cultivate an atmosphere of mutual respect at all


times. There is a policy of “Zero Tolerance” for students’ behavior that is disruptive,
hostile, rude, dishonest, threatening, or in any way directly or indirectly compromising
the physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, cultural, and/or environmental well-being of
another. Inappropriate and unacceptable behavior may be a warning sign of impending
hostility or violence and will be managed by prompt reporting and immediate assessment.

As adults with awareness of their behavior choices, it will be assumed that a student
chooses behaviors from among alternatives and intends to generate ensuing
consequences. Consequences may range from clinical or academic warnings to dismissal.
Offensive behaviors toward classmates, faculty, and /or others that occur in any setting,
including the LRCC campus, clinical agencies, and the larger community, will be
managed under this guideline. Examples of unacceptable behavior include, but are not
limited to, discrimination against a classmate for any reason, name-calling, making fun of
others, door- slamming, direct or indirect threats, unwanted physical contact, damage to
the property of others, lying, intimidation, and harassment. Please refer to the LRCC
student handbook “Student Code of Conduct” for further information.

GRIEVANCE POLICY

Any student that feels their rights (as defined in the LRCC student handbook, section V
A-G) have been violated may file a grievance. The procedure is as follows:
1. Attempt to resolve the issue directly with the individual involved, e.g.
instructor, staff member, or student within one week of reasonably knowing
that the grievance occurred.
2. If the issue cannot be resolved as in step 1, or the student does not want to
attempt to resolve the matter as explained in step 1, a formal grievance needs
to be submitted in writing to the Department Chair within one week of the
violation.
3. The Department Chair will attempt to resolve the issue.
4. If the student does not feel the grievance was adequately resolved, the issue
must be taken to the VPASA within one week
5. The grievance procedure then falls under the LRCC grievance procedure per
policy, stated on p. 20 of the LRCC 2018-2019 student handbook.
http://www.lrcc.edu/student-resources/student-handbook

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Nursing Student Handbook 2020-21
NURSING DEPARTMENT GRIEVANCE FORM

This form is to be used to file a formal written grievance when a concern or


complaint has not been resolved within the nursing department. It must be
submitted to the Department Chair within one week of the occurrence of the
grievance.

Student name: Date:

Faculty, staff, or other student involved:

Grievance or Complaint:

Date of incident: Place of incident

Nursing policy or procedure violated:

Attempted resolution:

Additional information, if needed:

Date received by Nursing Department Chair:

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ACADEMIC DISHONESTY

As stated in the LRCC Student Handbook, honesty is expected of all LRCC students. The
nursing department follows the Academic Honesty policy as described in the LRCC
student handbook and the Student Code of Conduct. Examples of academic dishonesty
include but are not limited to plagiarism and cheating.

Use of the internet to access test banks associated with any nursing program resource is
prohibited. Purchasing or selling test banks associated with any publication is a violation
of copyright laws. Accessing, purchasing or selling test banks associated with any
nursing program resources is a violation of the LRCC Code of Conduct as described in
the LRCC college handbook and the ANA Code of Ethics. Any student engaged in any
practice related to accessing test banks associated with program resources is engaging in
academic dishonesty and will be dismissed from the nursing program.

ACADEMIC WARNING

An academic warning may be issued at the discretion of the course faculty to any student
who does not meet the minimum passing grade on a test. Other examples include but are
not limited to absenteeism, tardiness, incomplete/ missing course assignments and
inappropriate or disrespectful behavior. The student will meet with the course faculty and
her/his advisor. Problem areas will be identified by the course faculty. A remediation
plan will be developed by the student in conjunction with the course faculty and advisor.
Problem areas and plan for remediation will be documented on the college Student Status
Report form. Remediation will be initiated immediately. Failure to follow through with
the remediation plan may result in dismissal from the nursing program.

ACADEMIC FAILURE

An academic failure results when a student earns below an 80% in any nursing course.
Grading criteria for each nursing course are documented in the syllabus. Along with
meeting all of the academic benchmarks for each course, a student must pass clinical to
progress to the next nursing course. To pass clinical, a student must satisfactorily meet
the clinical objectives for each course and earn a minimum grade of satisfactory or 80%
on all graded clinical paperwork.

DRUG AND ALCOHOL SCREENING

Students are required to abide by the provisions of LRCC’s Student Code of Conduct,
LRCC student handbook.

LRCC and its Nursing Program have both the right and the responsibility to dismiss any
student from the nursing program whose conduct violates the college drug and alcohol
policy.

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RE-ADMISSION POLICY / PROCEDURE

An eligible student may return to the nursing program one time only. A student may be
eligible to return to the nursing program if they withdrew from the Nursing Program due
to extenuating circumstances or due to an academic failure (didactic) in a nursing or co-
requisite course. A student who has failed academically may be required to re-take the
nursing course previous to the course that was failed. Each student will be evaluated
individually regarding the need to repeat a nursing course. Of note: A transfer student
that has previously failed a nursing course at another institution will not be eligible to
return after receiving an Academic or Clinical Failure from the LRCC Nursing program.

The following additional policies pertain to students who wish to return:

Students who are requesting to return to the Nursing Program must:


a. Notify the chair of the Department Chair within 30 days of notification of
failure to verify eligibility to return to the nursing program. A student who
plans to return to the nursing program must have the recommendation of
the faculty and be in compliance with program and college policies.*
b. Submit a letter of intent to the Department Chair outlining student’s plan
for success in the nursing program.
c. Attend any meetings and offer documentation of progress or successful
completion of student’s plan at the nursing department’s request.
d. A student who plans to return to the nursing program must have a final
recommendation of the faculty. Admission priority will be given to
students who left the program in good academic and clinical standing. If
there are more students than space available in the course faculty will
decide who is admitted.
e. A student may be required to repeat a nursing course previous to the one
failed in order to be eligible to return.
f. Plan to return the next semester that the designated course is offered. A
student who for any reason does not return to the course that is to be
repeated the next time it is offered, must re-apply to the nursing program
and meet all of the admission criteria in place at the time of the new
application. In this scenario, the student would return to the first semester
of the program.

*Students who have been dismissed from the Nursing Program due to
unprofessional behaviors and/or unsafe practice in the clinical setting are not
eligible for readmission.

STUDENT GOVERNANCE

Students are encouraged to participate in college wide committees and clubs. A student
volunteer from each level attends monthly faculty meetings and program advisory
committee meetings that are held in the fall and spring of each year.

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PROGRAM ADVISORY COMMITTEE

The program advisory committee is comprised of the program’s community partners, a


public member, a faculty member from the science department, the director of the library,
full time nursing faculty, and a student representative from each level. The committee
meets a minimum of twice a year to discuss program curriculum, student learning
outcomes, and program policy and procedures.

PROGRAM ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS


Meg Jenkins MS, BSN, RN Gilford High School Nurse (Community Partner)
Susan Smith BSN, MHA Executive Director, New Hampshire Voices for Health
Constance McCoy, RN (former nursing student, LRCC) DHMC Children’s clinic
Brenda Buttrick, RN, Administrator, St. Francis Home (Community Partner)
Barbara Whetstone, APRN, (Former Nursing Mental Health Faculty, LRCC)
Karissa Frost, RN, Nurse Recruiter, LRGHealthcare
Cheryl Gray, RN LRGHealthcare
Rosa Blais Community member
1 Student Representative from each level

PINNING

Level Two students and at least 1 faculty member make up the pinning committee.
1. A ceremony will be planned and organized by the level Two class with support
and final approval from the faculty and Department Chair.
2. Designated level one students will attend the pinning ceremony to be able to lead
the project in their second year.
3. The ceremony will be scheduled at the end of the final semester of the program
and may not conflict with graduation.
4. Students plan the ceremony with faculty guidance and approval
5. Pinning will be held in the Academic Commons.
6. The maximum number of guests will be 120.
7. Students will be responsible for:
a. Ordering the pins
b. Designing invitations and program
c. Choosing a guest speaker
d. Decorations and decorating for the ceremony
e. Choosing the processional and recessional music
f. Choosing and ordering the food for the ceremony
g. Organizing seating arrangements
f. Setting up a “pin board” for the ceremony
g. Cleaning up after the ceremony (level one students)
8. Graduates will wear professional attire

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Clinical Policies and Procedures
CLINICAL BEHAVIOR

Conduct should at all times reflect the student’s professional role. There is no smoking.
Eating at clinical sites must conform to the regulations of the facility. Students should
not chew gum, eat or drink while on the clinical unit. Students must treat all persons with
respect, including formally addressing patients unless they request otherwise, and
respecting facilitator’s time with other students. Students who demonstrate
unprofessional behavior may be issued a clinical warning (see clinical warning policy, p.
35).
The sharing or solicitation of specific testing results, falsifying medical records, lying,
stealing, Taking photos, and/or breach of client confidentiality are examples of
unprofessionalism and unethical behavior, which may result in termination from the
nursing program. Any violation of HIPAA regulations as defined by the clinical facility
will result in dismissal from the nursing program.

PRE-CLINICAL DRUG TESTING

This policy applies to all nursing students. Failure to complete a drug screening check
satisfactorily may result in a nursing student being denied access to clinical sites.
Subsequently, the student will be dismissed from the Nursing Program.
Nursing students will be required to satisfactorily complete drug testing in their first and
second year of education prior to clinical per the affiliation agreement with each clinical
site.

The financial cost for each student will be incorporated into tuition fees at the beginning
of each semester.

The chair of the nursing department will maintain a confidential database including all
pre-clinical drug screening test results in a locked, secured file in compliance with
College and FERPA student record policy.

Any student with a positive drug screen that is being treated for chronic pain management
must show written proof he/she is being treated appropriately in a pain control clinic.
The student can expect to be interviewed by the affiliation site appointed physician and
deemed safe. Failure to attend this meeting may result in immediate dismissal from the
Nursing Program. A student with a positive result will be dismissed from the nursing
program.

Students are responsible for all financial costs associated with drug testing.

A student may request a review of a reserved test sample by a second laboratory


approved by the clinical affiliate. The student is responsible for all financial costs related
to a review and any additional testing.

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CLINICAL AFFILIATION POLICY

The purpose of this policy is to facilitate the development of a harmonious and


cooperative relationship between the nursing student and the affiliating agency by
maintaining consistent standards of clinical practice.
1. Students in nursing courses with a clinical component must wear an appropriate
uniform in the clinical setting. (See Clinical Dress Requirements Policy p. 25)
2. Students are not permitted in the clinical area without the express knowledge and
permission of the clinical instructor.
3. In order to attend clinical, each student must have evidence of health insurance,
Basic Life Support for the Healthcare Provider, current immunizations, TB
screening, a negative criminal background check, and a CCP ticket. Each student
will provide all additional paperwork required by the facility.
4. All facility policies will be followed by students while in the clinical setting.
5. Students are required to provide their own transportation to the clinical sites.
6. Clinical absences must be reported to the affiliating agency no later than one hour
prior to the start of clinical. Tardiness must be reported to clinical faculty.
7. Students will be notified of changes in Clinical due to bad weather by the clinical
instructor.
8. Students who require further refinement of nursing techniques are responsible for
making arrangements with nursing instructors to use the skills/ lab at the college.
9. Instructors reserve the right to dismiss a student from the clinical setting if
performance is determined as unsafe or unprofessional. (See
Unsafe/Unprofessional Student Nurse Practice Policy p. 30).

CONFIDENTIALITY

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), is a federal act that
protects health information. All students must follow HIPAA standards regarding
protection of patient health information.

Ensuring the confidentiality of all information about a client is an ethical, moral, and
legal requirement of healthcare professionals. The student must safeguard the client’s
right to privacy by maintaining confidentiality. Students may not discuss clients in
elevators, cafeteria, lobby, by phone, email, social media, or under other inappropriate
circumstances. Information about a patient may be discussed with faculty and peers as an
aspect of clinical or classroom education and must not be further discussed or repeated to
other individuals.

If a faculty member inadvertently assigns a student to a family member or a friend, the


student must request another assignment. Students are expected to avoid reading the
medical records of family members, friends, or acquaintances, and to confine their use of
the electronic medical record to only that necessary to complete their assignments.

Special care must be taken to protect the rights of patients and maintain confidentiality
when students are preparing for clinical experience. Copying documents from a client’s

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medical record is prohibited. Clinical assignments may not contain patient names or
initials.

CLINICAL DRESS POLICY

A student nurse must be well groomed and wear the approved student uniform to all
clinical settings as required by the program. A student must also follow the dress policy
of each individual clinical site. The LRCC uniform is to be worn only during clinical and
lab hours, and to and from clinical sites. The student uniform is not appropriate for street
wear. Faculty may send a student home if an inappropriate uniform is worn to a clinical
setting.

The LRCC Student Nurse Uniform:


1. Students shall wear black pants with the approved royal blue top. A black
camisole, or a black crew neck t-shirt with ¾ length or long sleeves may be worn
under a royal blue scrub top.
NOTE: Black jeans, black stretch pants, tight blouses/turtlenecks/tops and
sweaters are not acceptable.
2. All students are to wear a name badge issued by the clinical facility or the college.
It will identify them by name and status. The badge will be worn so it is easily
visible. The name badge is part of the student uniform. The LRGHealthcare name
badge will be returned to faculty at the end of the academic year or upon leaving
the program.
3. Black shoes and black socks are to be worn with the uniform. Open back,
strapless, clog-type shoes and shoes with openings on the tops or sides are not
permitted. Shoes must be clean at all times.
4. Bandage scissors, a pen with black ink (no felt tip), a watch with a second hand
and a stethoscope are required and considered part of the uniform.
5. A royal blue scrub jacket (matching the top) with elastic cuffs is allowed; the
sleeves must be able to be positioned so as not to interfere with hand hygiene.

Criteria for required grooming consists of the following:

1. The uniform shall be freshly laundered daily and wrinkle-free. The hem of the
pants must not touch the floor.
2. Hair must be neat, clean, and off the collar so that it does not need to be pushed
back or adjusted when leaning forward during patient care. Plain pins or barrettes
may be worn. Males must be clean-shaven or have neatly trimmed beard and
mustache.
3. Nails must be clean, manicured and trimmed. Long nails are not permitted.
Acrylic nails are not permitted. Only clear nail polish may be worn.
4. A plain band or a ring with a small stone setting may be worn. For safety reasons,
only small stud jewelry may be worn in any piercing. Pierced earrings are limited
to 2 per ear. No decorative rings, pins, bracelets, necklaces/pendants or
dangling earrings are permitted.

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5. Inappropriate and multiple or extensive tattoos must be covered during clinical
hours, if possible. This may be done with a black t-shirt with full-length sleeves
worn under the royal blue top.
6. Make-up which is tastefully applied may be worn. Heavy eyeliner, eye shadow,
rouge, etc. are not permitted. Students must not smell of strong odors such as
perfumes, body odors, or cigarette smoke.
7. Mental Health and Community Observational Experiences:
Street clothes appropriate for a meeting of professional importance should be
worn. Casual slacks, blouses, skirts, and flat shoes are all appropriate. Tight,
form fitting clothing, shorts, high heels, excessive jewelry or jeans are not
acceptable. Please do not have exposed skin in midriff area. A name badge
will be worn at all times.

New Hampshire Hospital Dress Code


I. POLICY STATEMENT:
New Hampshire Hospital strives to make patients and their families comfortable that
they are being treated and/or helped by responsible and mature adults. Personal
cleanliness and neatness of employees is essential due to contact with patients, visitors
and other employees. Employees who leave their immediate work area during the
course of their daily routines and are in contact with the public should be appropriately
attired for a professional business environment.

Occasionally, current fashion trends create an image that many patients and visitors may perceive as
less than professional. Extreme hair color, certain tattoos, non-professional clothing and visible body
piercings can create such an impression and will be deemed to be inappropriate. Exceptions can be
made at the department level for cultural, religious, health or other appropriate reasons.

All employees, students and volunteers are expected to conform to these guidelines.
Managers have the authority and responsibility for determining appropriate dress in
the workplace. In the event an employee is neglectful in the following guidelines, they
may be asked by the manager to return home to change immediately.

In addition to the following guidelines, there may be clinical situations, job


responsibilities or professional expectations that require special clothing or further
modifications of the dress code.

II. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to establish minimum, enforceable expectations of dress


for all employees, students and volunteers throughout the organization.

III. GUIDELINES

A. Personal Hygiene: All individuals shall be clean, neat, free of body odor and well
groomed. This includes, but is not limited to clean, neatly trimmed head and facial
hair, and nails.

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B. Garments/Clothing

1. Garments shall be neat, clean, in good repair, and appropriate for a


professional business environment.

a. Undergarments must be worn.

b. Clothing relevant to the activity for patient community trips/activities is


acceptable for the duration of the trip/activity only.

2. All skirts, dresses or equivalent shall be worn at a length that demonstrates


awareness of a conservative professional style and is appropriate to each
employee’s role and function in the organization.

3. Examples of unacceptable clothing include, but are not limited to, the
following:
a. cut offs
b. halter tops/tank tops
c. form fitting clothing
d. garments with large logos
e. garments with slogans or pictures depicting drugs, alcohol, smoking, sex,
skull and crossbones, weapons, violence or obscene language
f. denim pants of any color except where appropriate to the employee’s
function, as determined by the manager.
g. hats/caps (unless an approved part of a uniform)
h. shorts (unless an approved part of a uniform)
i. any other manner of dress that could be interpreted as provocative in nature

C. Tattoos/Body Art

1. Tattoos/body art/brands that may be considered offensive by others, are


obscene, sexually explicit, advocate or symbolize sex, gender, racial, religious,
ethnic or national origin discrimination shall be covered and not be visible
through clothing.

2. In addition, tattoos/body art/brands that advocate or symbolize gang


affiliation, supremacist and/or extremist groups or drug use are considered
offensive and shall be covered and not be visible through clothing.

D. Footwear

1. Stockings, hosiery/hose are recommended to be worn by staff at all times.

2. Footwear shall be clean and in good repair. Fully enclosed shoes are
recommended for all employees. Footwear that is designed to be tied shall be

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tied. This is particularly relevant to direct care employees who are most likely
to be involved in physical situations leading to injury.

3. Flip-flops (open-toed sandals typically worn in casual situations, usually


consisting of a flat sole held loosely on the foot by a Y-shaped strap that passes
between the first and second toes and around either side of the foot or held to
the foot with a single strap over the top of the foot) are not considered
appropriate for the Hospital work setting.

E. Jewelry and Accessories: The choice of jewelry and accessories shall be suitable
for the job being performed and of a type that does not have the potential to cause
injury to a patient, employee, student or volunteer.

1. Most necklaces made of any material are unacceptable for direct care workers.
Small necklaces worn under clothing that do not pose a danger may be worn
but will not be reimbursable if damaged.

2. Large hoops, bangles and fashion scarves are unacceptable for direct care
workers.

3. Earrings and a single, small nose stud are the only acceptable forms of visible
pierced jewelry.

F. Uniforms: Employees in some departments may be required to wear uniforms


while on duty. The distribution, cleaning and responsibility for uniforms shall be
described in Departmental Standard.

G. Fragrances: Employees are not to use fragrances while on duty, giving respect to
co-workers and patients who may be sensitive or allergic to fragrances.

H. Identification: All individuals shall wear New Hampshire Hospital Identification


Badges in accordance with the Hospital policy, Identification Badges.

I. Staff required to monitor vital signs are expected to wear a watch that features a
second hand or digital display.

J. Clothing/Personal Property Damage

1. Claims for clothing/personal property damage shall be filed with and managed
through the Hospital’s Patient Rights Investigators office. Claims under $500
shall be considered in accordance with RSA 541-B and estimates for
repair/replacement may be required as part of a negotiated settlement.

a. Hospital Staff are responsible for wearing clothing suitable for their job
functions and shall not be reimbursed for “clothing malfunctions” during
the course of their work (such as pants tearing during a gym group).

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b. Expensive jewelry/watches should not be worn to work. Reimbursement
shall be limited to no more than $75 for these items. (Also see III.E.1.)
c. Prescription eyeglasses may have lenses and/or frames replaced through a
reimbursement of up to $500.00.

K. Responsibility

1. Department Directors/designee(s) shall be responsible for communicating and


enforcing these guidelines. The Hospital policy, Dress Code, shall be included
in all Department Orientations.

2. If, in the judgment of the manager, an individual’s attire is deemed


inappropriate, the individual shall be counseled by the manager and/or sent
home, without pay, until he/she returns to the work setting properly attired.

3. Failure to comply with the Hospital policy and department standards shall be
grounds for disciplinary action up to and including termination in accordance
with the Rules and Regulations of the Division of Personnel.

STUDENT CLINICAL ORIENTATION

Classroom Clinical Orientation


1. Review of clinical policies in Nursing Student Handbook
2. Parking Policy (directions to facility as needed)
3. Review of Patient's Bill of Rights / ANA Nursing Code of Ethics
4. Complete the Centralized clinical placement Orientation Program (CCP)
http://www.mass.edu/mcncps/orientation/welcome.asp and required paperwork
5. Drug Testing
6. Criminal background check
7. Review the procedure to be utilized when clinical is unexpectedly cancelled
**Each student must print and submit a CCP Ticket and all other required
paperwork as defined by each clinical affiliate prior to the start of clinical

Nursing Unit Orientation


1. Introduction to unit manager and staff
2. Tour of unit
3. Location of reference materials
4. Documentation /EMR
5. Medication Administration System
6. Shift Routines and Report Mechanisms
7. Charge System
8. Equipment:
a. Beds
b. Wall Suction / Oxygen
c. Intravenous (IV) pumps / Patient Controlled Analgesia (PCA) pump

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d. Vital/Sign (V/S) Equipment
e. Bladder Scanner
f. Blood Glucose Monitor
g. Call Light System
9. Clinical assignment paperwork
a. Care Maps/Care Plans
b. Med maps
c. Journals
d. Assignments for post conference

Orientation to specialty sites will be according to agency policy.

Nursing Students will be assigned to care for clients on precautions.

MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION POLICIES

1. Students will not, under any circumstance, medicate a client by any route without
the knowledge, instruction, and/or supervision of a nursing faculty member or
designee.
2. Faculty will ensure that students document the administration of any medication
administered by a student according to agency policy.
3. Students must calculate and administer all doses of parenteral medication under
the direct supervision of their clinical instructor or designated primary nurse.
4. Students will be directly observed by faculty during administration of medications
by any route until the faculty deems it safe to allow the student to give oral meds
with indirect supervision.
5. Successful completion of the Injection and IV Therapy Lab is a prerequisite to
administration of parenteral medication by students, who will then be directly
observed by faculty or designated primary nurse at all times while administering
parenteral medications.
6. Faculty will check all dosage calculations and administration rates including IV
drip rates, dilution, and compatibilities before the student administers IV
medication or regulates IV therapy. The use of a calculator by students is
encouraged.
7. Once a student has been deemed safe to give medications, the clinical instructor
may designate a primary nurse to supervise a student who is giving medications.
8. Narcotics: Students may not access the narcotic drawer or pixus without direct
supervision. Students are not to prepare or administer narcotics without direct
supervision by the instructor or primary nurse.
9. Breach of any part of this policy will be considered unsafe clinical practice and
grounds for immediate dismissal from the nursing program.

IMPAIRED NURSING STUDENT

If a student is suspected of drug or alcohol use, that student will be sent for drug and/or
alcohol screening immediately. The student must arrange for alternate transportation
from the clinical site/college.
Nursing Student Handbook 2020-21
Failure to comply will result in immediate dismissal from the nursing program. A
positive outcome will result in dismissal from the nursing program.

The student will be responsible for all expenses incurred.

CLINICAL WARNING

A clinical warning may be issued by the clinical faculty anytime there is a concern
related to clinical performance and/or behavior that puts the student at risk for clinical
failure. Examples of incidents that may warrant a clinical warning are described but not
limited to:

1. Lack of preparation for the many aspects involved in patient care during a clinical
day at the expected level.
2. Inability to apply theoretical concepts and nursing principles in order to make
appropriate nursing care decisions and clinical judgments at the expected level.
3. Unable to set priorities and organize patient care at the expected level.
4. Not completing clinical assignment set forth by clinical instructor.
5. Excessive absences or excessive tardiness and other unprofessional behaviors.

Once the clinical warning is documented, the student will meet with the clinical faculty
and/or advisor and/or department chair. The student will develop a learning contract that
includes the objectives that the student must meet to continue in the course and plan to
meet those objectives. The learning contract will be submitted to the clinical faculty for
approval.

Once the learning contract has been approved, the student must implement the plan
immediately. A student who has received a clinical warning must complete the clinical
rotation with the instructor who issued the clinical warning. The objectives must be met
consistently throughout the remainder of the clinical course and all subsequent clinical
courses. All information will be retained in the student’s file for subsequent access by the
nursing faculty. Patterns of inappropriate behavior and/or weak clinical performance may
result in a clinical failure. Should the student fail to meet the prescribed objectives and
timeframes noted in the clinical learning contract or if the identified behaviors persist, the
result will be a clinical failure, and therefore, failure of the course and an inability to
progress in the nursing program.

When a student does not progress towards meeting the clinical objectives, or continues to
engage in unprofessional behavior, the following steps will be taken:
1. The clinical instructor and at least one other nursing faculty member will
review the facts of the situation.
2. A recommendation will be made to the department chair regarding the
outcome.

Nursing Student Handbook 2020-21


3. The department chair, in consultation with the faculty will make a final
decision regarding whether the student will continue in the course or be
dismissed.
4. The student will meet with the clinical instructor and the department chair to
discuss the final outcome.
The outcome will include one of the following:
 The student will be dismissed from the course (Clinical Failure) and will have the
opportunity to re-apply for consideration. (see Re-Admission Policy)
 The student will be dismissed from the program (Clinical Failure) without the
option of returning to the nursing program.

CLINICAL FAILURE

It is expected that a student will demonstrate continued progress throughout each clinical
rotation. In order to pass the clinical component of each course, the student must achieve
a grade of Satisfactory (S) for each clinical objective.
The following standards apply to each of the four nursing courses:
Nursing I
A grade of Satisfactory must be achieved at the end of the rotation in Acute Care

Nursing II
A grade of Satisfactory must be achieved at the end of the second clinical rotation in
Med/Surg
Nursing III
A grade of satisfactory must be achieved by the end of the Mental Health rotation and
A grade of satisfactory must be achieved by the end of the second Med/Surg rotation

Nursing IV
A grade of satisfactory must be achieved by the end of the Med/Surg rotation and
A grade of satisfactory must be achieved in the Maternal, Newborn rotation and a grade
of Satisfactory must be achieved in the Pediatric rotation.

Nursing students are expected to demonstrate accountability and responsibility for


professional practice and behavior throughout their participation in the LRCC nursing
program. Student behavior that is considered to be unsafe and/or unprofessional in the
clinical setting, by the clinical faculty, will result in immediate dismissal from the nursing
program. (See Unsafe/Unprofessional Student Nurse Practice.)

UNSAFE/UNPROFESSIONAL STUDENT NURSE PRACTICE

A nursing student, whose actions compromise a client's physical and/or mental health, is
considered unsafe to practice in the clinical setting. Unsafe/unprofessional behaviors
include but are not limited to the following examples:
1. Breach of clinical site or facility policy
2. Withholding/omitting treatments and/or medications as ordered by the care
providers without notifying the instructor, the charge nurse, and the physician.

Nursing Student Handbook 2020-21


3. Withholding information critical to the safety/survival of a patient, e.g., not
reporting to instructor, nurse, and physician, errors made in patient care as soon as
they occur, not reporting changes in patient condition to the instructor, the
primary nurse, and the physician.
4. Withholding/omitting the delivery of basic, complete nursing care or other orders
indicated on the care plan, without notifying the instructor and/or the nursing
staff.
5. Performing tasks, implementing procedures, distributing medications without
instructor supervision or approval.
6. Endangering a patient's safety by leaving a nursing assignment without properly
notifying appropriate personnel.
7. Deliberately reporting/recording misinformation, e.g. stating changes in patient’s
condition, vital signs.
8. Obtaining or witnessing consent for a procedure from a patient/family member.
9. Determining a medical diagnosis and relaying the information to the
patients/families.
10. Rendering personal guidance, opinions, or recommending medical treatment
when a patient is making or has made decisions based upon condition, medical
advice and his/her own preference.
11. Counseling patients or implying counseling abilities.
12. Physical, verbal or emotional misconduct/abuse towards patients, peers, and/or
other health care professionals.
13. Discriminating in the rendering of nursing services as it relates to human rights
14. Misappropriating drugs, money, supplies, equipment, etc.
15. Any action by the nursing student that harms a patient, another student, agency
staff or themselves.

Clinical failure will result in overall course failure, regardless of course theory grade. The
student will receive a grade of AF and does not have the option to withdraw from the
course. Should a student fail clinical at any point in the course, the student will not be
permitted to attend any subsequent classes or clinical experiences in that particular
course. The student may continue to attend other enrolled courses for the duration of the
semester, but will be unable to progress in the nursing program upon receipt of the
nursing course failure grade. The student does have the opportunity to appeal the clinical
failure (as per the Lakes Region Community College Catalog) but must do so within 48-
hours of being notified of the clinical failure due to the timing/flow of the nursing
curriculum.

Nursing Student Handbook 2020-21


Nursing Department
COVID 19 Policies
2020-2021
Classroom Policies
Students must adhere to the student responsibilities as described in the LRCC guidelines.
This document is posted within your course on Canvas.

Lectures will be held in the Academic Commons. Students are required to wear a mask
and maintain social distancing during lecture and while on breaks.

Students must leave the Commons during a break

Exams will be given in the Academic Commons. Those students who are accommodated
will test in a separate area in the nursing department.

Students may be required to bring their personal laptops to class.

Class time that is missed will be addressed on a individual basis with the course faculty
and department chair

Lab Policies

PPE will be provided

Mask and gloves will be worn while working in the lab. If anyone would like to wear a
gown (when not required) in addition to mask and gloves, one will be provided.

When working individually, there will be 1 student at each bed while in the lab and 1
student at each table in Rm 135 and/or 142

Gowns will be worn if there is any contact with another student or faculty
Equipment will be cleaned after each use

Manikins will be cleaned with designated cleanser after any contact

Students must leave the lab and classroom during the break

Lab time that is missed will be addressed on an individual basis with the course faculty
and department chair

Nursing Student Handbook 2020-21


Clinical

PPE Education will be provided prior to starting clinical.

Students are required to follow all of the COVID 19 policies implemented by each
clincial facility.

Students will not be assigned to care for clients diagnosed with COVID 19

Students who do not comply with the COVID 19 policies and procedures established
by the nursing department, LRCC, or any clincial site will be dismissed from the
nursing program and will not be allowed to re-apply.

Nursing Student Handbook 2020-21


NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK ACCOUNTABILITY

I have read and fully understand, and agree that I am accountable for the academic and
clinical policies described in the LRCC Student Nurse Handbook for the academic year
2020-2021

Print Name___________________________________________________

_______________________________________ Date_________________
Student signature

Nursing Student Handbook 2020-21

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