Nursing Student Handbook 2020-2021
Nursing Student Handbook 2020-2021
Nursing Student Handbook 2020-2021
Degree
Nursing
Student Handbook
2020-2021
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
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
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:
PHILOSOPHY
ORGANIZING FRAMEWORK
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
PROGRAM OUTCOMES
5. Job placement rates will be at or above 85% or greater six to twelve months post-
licensure.
1. Plan and deliver safe, legal, and ethical patient-centered care to culturally and
developmentally diverse patients using the nursing process
4. Use health care system resources and technology to coordinate and deliver
individual and/or population- focused care that is safe, effective and efficient.
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
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
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
Additional scholarships are also available. Please refer to the college website for details.
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 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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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
Please refer to the college student handbook for information related to SIS.
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.
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)
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.
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.
2. Use of electronic devices during class or in clinical are allowed only with
approval of the faculty.
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.
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.
PROFESSIONAL BEHAVIOR
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
Grievance or Complaint:
Attempted resolution:
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.
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.
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.
*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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
II. PURPOSE
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.
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
D. Footwear
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
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.
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.
I. Staff required to monitor vital signs are expected to wear a watch that features a
second hand or digital display.
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).
K. Responsibility
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Exams will be given in the Academic Commons. Those students who are accommodated
will test in a separate area in the nursing department.
Class time that is missed will be addressed on a individual basis with the course faculty
and department chair
Lab Policies
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
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
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.
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