RNBSN Handbook 2014
Olivet Nazarene University
Department of Nursing
RNBSN Student Handbook
Spiritual
Service
Spiritual
Growth
Personal
Growth
Personal
Change
Agent
Moral
Professional
Growth
ONU
Nurse
Life-Long
Learner
1
Leader
Professional
RNBSN Handbook 2014
TABLE OF CONTENTS
HANDBOOK AGREEMENT PAGE
5
OVERVIEW
History of the Nursing Program
6
Accreditation
8
NURSING PROGRAM ORGANIZING FRAMEWORK
9
Mission
9
Philosophy
9
Program Goals
9
Expected Outcomes of the Graduate
9
Conceptual Framework of the Program
10
Continuing Student Nursing Roles
11
Correspondence of Central Themes to Program Outcomes
12
RNBSN Program Level Objectives
14
RNBSN DEGREE REQUIREMENTS AND PROGRAM PLAN
16
Transfer of Credit Policy
16
Diploma Program Graduate
16
Learner Requirements
16
Graduation Requirements
17
RNBSN DEGREE ADMISSIONS, PROGRESSION, AND DISMISSAL POLICIES 18
Admissions, Retention, and Progression Policy
18
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RNBSN Handbook 2014
RNBSN ACADEMIC INFORMATION AND POLICIES
19
The Online and On Ground Course Start and End Dates
19
The Course Week
19
Submission Times
19
Discussion Board Requirements
19
Discussion Forum Code of Conduct
20
Definition of a Substantive Post
20
Discussion Requirement and Rubric
21
Assignments
22
Academic Integrity
22
Late Work Policy
22
Attendance
23
Code of Conduct
24
Practicum/Project Policy
24
Practicum/Project Requirements
24
Practicum/Project Paperwork Requirements
24
Preceptor Information (example)
25
Practicum Agency Agreement (example)
27
Practium Hour Log (example)
31
Preceptor Evaluation of the RNBSN Student (example)
33
Evaluation of Preceptor and Agency by the RNBSN Student (example)
36
Practicum Project Attire
37
Criminal Background Check
37
Drug Screening Policy
37
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RNBSN Handbook 2014
Safety Guidelines for Practicum/Project Settings
38
Liability Insurance
38
Incomplete Grades
38
Final Grade Appeal - SGCS - Nursing
39
Appeal of Administrative Withdrawal
40
Process of Re-entry
40
Personal Portfolio
40
Benchmark Assignments for RNBSN Personal Portfolio
40
Nursing Courses for Registered Nurses
41
Supporting Courses
42
Example of Program Plan
44
Privacy and Confidentiality under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountabilty
Act of 1995 (HIPAA)
45
Benner Library
46
Program Evaluation
46
The Honor Society of Nursing, Sigma Theta Tau International, Kappa Sigma Chapter
46
American Nurses Association Code for Nurses
47
RESOURCES
48
APA
48
Textbook Distribution
48
Technology Requirements
48
RNBSN TELEPHONE DIRECTORY
49
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RNBSN Handbook 2014
Thetudent Signature Page
Olivet Nazarene University Department of Nursing
Handbook Agreement
I, the undersigned, agree to the use of my course work and/or test scores for the
purpose of evaluation during my academic tenure at Olivet Nazarene University. I
understand the information will be aggregated data solely for the purpose of
enhancing the overall quality of the nursing program.
In addition, I have reviewed Olivet Nazarene University RNBSN Nursing Student
Handbook. I accept responsibility for knowledge of the handbook contents, and
agree to abide by the standards and academic policies found herein. I accept
responsibility for knowledge of the handbook contents of all new versions that
might be distributed throughout my program.
I understand I must complete Joule training on the my.ONU.edu portal.
I understand I am responsible for monitoring my ONU email, as this is how the
Nursing Faculty and Administration will be communicating with me from this
point forward.
Print Name __________________________________________________
Signature
__________________________________________________
Date___________ (mo/day/year)
Please sign and date this form then Fax or mail to:
Department of Nursing
One University Ave.
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
FAX: 815-939-5383
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RNBSN Handbook 2014
History of the Nursing Program
As early as 1959, the possibility of initiating a baccalaureate nursing program was considered by
Olivet Nazarene (then) College administrative members who did not find it feasible to initiate a
program at that time. However, recognition of the need for nurses and the discontinuance of St.
Mary’s hospital, diploma program in Kankakee prompted reconsideration early in 1966. At the
May 1966 meeting of the Olivet Board of Trustees, approval was given for the development of a
baccalaureate degree program in nursing.
Assistance in planning the program was given by the Department Chair at Northern Illinois
University and a nurse coordinator of the Illinois Department of Registration and Education. By
September of 1966, the first chair, Faye Riley was employed to develop and lead the newly
organized Department of Nursing. The first students to enroll in the nursing program started in
the fall of 1967. The Dedication program on October 1968 indicates there were 34 students
continuing in the course.
Classes met in various buildings of the campus. The first Department of Nursing office was
located in Reed Hall of Science. Also, the lecture hall of Reed was used for classes requiring
demonstrations. Rooms of Wellman Hall as well as in a college-owned building on Marseilles
Street were used for teaching other classes. Later, the office of the Department of Nursing was
located in Burke Hall. A generous gift from Mr. and Mrs. Gerett M. Wisner and a federal grant
made it possible to construct a free standing building dedicated for the nursing program.
Groundbreaking for the Wisner Hall for Nursing Education was in February 1970 and was first
used in 1971. Wisner Hall provided four classrooms, a student lounge, a resource center with 24
carrels (each equipped with tape and viewing machines), the Evelyn Witthoff - Geraldine
Chappell auditorium (respectively named for a Physician – RN missionary team to India)
capable of seating 150 students, office space for 20 faculty members, and a faculty lounge.
Originally the Audio-Visual Department of the college occupied a large area in Wisner Hall.
That space was made available to the nursing department when the audio-visual equipment was
moved to Benner Library in 1976. Other departments and offices have shared the building space
through the years as well.
The building remains a beautiful testament to the faithfulness and generosity of the Wisner’s.
Wisner has been updated with a Virtual Hospital, high fidelity simulation manikins, and 31
computer stations for study, standardized testing, and interactive learning.
The Department of Nursing was designated a Division of Nursing in the spring of 1977 by the
college administration. The Division of Nursing received full approval from the National League
for Nursing in 1979 with the most recent approval in 1993. The nursing program made
application to the Commission for Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and received
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RNBSN Handbook 2014
preliminary approval in 1997, and full approval in 2001. In 1990, the Division of Nursing
established a non-traditional track of the program of nursing for registered nurses with an
associate degree or a three-year diploma desiring the Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing.
The first class began in January, 1991.
Kappa Sigma Chapter, Sigma Theta Tau, International Nursing Honor Society was established
here on May 12, 1984 through the hard work and dedication of the first Chapter President, Sue
Davison, and the Executive Board Members, VP-Margaret Frogge, Treasurer-Marvina Eckert,
Secretary-Brenda Johnson, and Faculty Advisors-Leann Eaton and Amy Golyshko. The Nursing
Students in Action joined the National Student Nurses Association in 2008.
In October, 2000, a Master’s in Nursing Program was established to prepare nurses for the
advanced practice role; the first cohort of MSN students graduated in May 2003. In May 2005,
the MSN program’s Continuous Improvement Progress Report was approved. In November
2006, the MSN program was reviewed for accreditation by CCNE and accreditation awarded by
AACN. In 2007 an expanded MSN offering was launched to include tracks in Nursing
Leader/Manager, Nursing Education, and Emergency Preparedness-Disaster Response.
With the 2006 restructuring of the University, the Division of Nursing became the Department of
Nursing within the School of Professional Studies. In 2014, the Department of Nursing became
the School of Nursing and Health Sciences.
Past and present Nursing Program Chairs:
Faye Riley
Margaret Seely
Dr. Carolyn Rohe
Dr. Alberta David
Dr. Loretta Reinhart
Jan Holmes
Dr. Norma Wood
Dr. Bonnie Beardsley
Dr. Susan Draine
Dr. Linda Davison
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RNBSN Handbook 2014
Accreditation
Olivet Nazarene University
Nursing Programs
are fully accredited
by
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
One Dupont Circle, NW
Suite 530
Washington, DC
20036-1120
Phone: (202)-887-6791
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RNBSN Handbook 2014
NURSING PROGRAM ORGANIZING FRAMEWORK
Mission
The mission of the Department of Nursing is to provide Christian nursing education designed to
prepare each graduate for a life of service to God and humanity. In this endeavor, students
integrate faith and learning as they investigate concepts inherent in personal, professional, and
spiritual growth through life-long learning and leadership.
Philosophy
The philosophy of the Olivet Nazarene University Department of Nursing encompasses spiritual,
personal, and professional concepts that include the roles of leader, change agent, life-long
learning, and service guided by ethical and moral standards.
Program Goals
Graduates are prepared to continue in the profession of nursing as contributing members of the
discipline, to promote, maintain, and restore the health of clients in a variety of settings.
The goals of the RNBSN nursing major are to prepare graduates to:
I.
II.
III.
IV.
Serve God and humanity in diverse roles and settings.
Integrate faith and life-long learning as they develop concepts inherent in
personal, professional, and spiritual growth, within the setting of a Christian
liberal arts university.
Recommend the concepts of leadership skills and an understanding of the
dynamic health care environment to recommend constructive change.
Assimilate ethical, moral, spiritual, and professional concepts into their nursing
practice.
Expected Outcomes of the Graduate
The expected outcome characteristics of the RNBSN graduates include:




An ethical, moral, and spiritual professional.
A life-long learner committed to personal, professional, and spiritual growth.
An individual capable of providing leadership through service to God and humanity in
advanced practice roles and settings.
A leader and change agent.
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RNBSN Handbook 2014
Conceptual Framework of the Program
Spiritual
Spiritual Growth
Moral
Service
Personal
Growth
Personal
Change
Agent
ONU
Nurse
Life-Long
Learner
10
Professional
Growth
Leader
Professional
RNBSN Handbook 2014
OLIVET NAZARENE UNIVERSITY
CONTINUING STUDENT NURSING ROLES
Leader:
Nurses are responsible to prepare today for tomorrow’s challenges. They must be fully aware of the past,
learn from it, and be fully aware of present circumstance. From this foundation the leader has a sense of
the future, to plan for and shape it. Leaders, through their vision, creativity, and ability are able to produce
change and manage transition moving nursing toward a preferred future.
Change Agent:
Nurses have the ability to influence others such as colleagues, communities, organizations, systems, and
policies through collaborative inter/intra professional communication. This should ultimately facilitate
change in nursing practice, the profession, and/or society.
Life-long Learner:
Nurses throughout their careers are exposed to a variety of opportunities that support unique learning.
Through self-evaluation nurses demonstrate an appreciation for life-long learning within, and beyond
professional activities as a result of personal and professional development. Nurses will continue the
journey of learning by participation in professional seminars and conferences, attending graduate or
additional schooling, and involvement in professional organizations and career opportunities.
Professional Growth:
Nurses evaluate their personal growth by completion of the required course work in the Department of
Nursing preparing themselves for integration into the professional community. Learning of skills and
competencies will enable nurses to deliver safe and effective nursing care in a variety of settings.
Personal Growth:
Nurses discuss personal growth through effective verbal and written communication and appreciation of
the nursing process through research and scientific inquiry. They demonstrate care for others, application
of knowledge in the Practicum/Project setting, and a maturing world view.
Spiritual Growth:
Nurses will systematize knowledge of the Christian faith through completion of the Biblical classes
offered at the University, syntheses of faith into service to God, and service to the local and global
community.
Service:
Nurses choose meaningful time and dedication in service to God and mankind in order to meet the needs
of individuals, targeted populations, and the local and global community.
Ethical:
Nurses convey a personal philosophy of nursing practice grounded in the ethical values of their faith and
profession. Judgments on moral dilemmas will be based on high ethical standards and made with
responsible and rational decisions. Decisions are made with the willingness to accept responsibility for
their actions.
Morals:
Nurses have the confidence to plan consistently within the confines of the Christian faith. However, there
is a willingness to consider alternate views on ethical issues and personal values in the local and global
community.
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RNBSN Handbook 2014
CORRESPONDENCE OF CENTRAL THEMES TO PROGRAM
OUTCOMES
Central Themes
Leader: Nurses are responsible to prepare
today for tomorrow’s challenges. They
must be fully aware of the past, learn from
it, and be fully aware of present
circumstance. From this foundation the
leader has a sense of the future, to plan for
and shape it. Leaders, through their vision,
creativity, and ability are able to create
change and manage transition moving
nursing toward a preferred future.
I.
III.
IV.
Change Agent: Nurses have the ability to
influence others such as colleagues,
communities, organizations, systems, and
policies and will ultimately create change
in nursing practice, the profession, and/or
society.
II.
Life-long Learner: Nurses throughout
their careers are exposed to a variety of
opportunities that support unique learning.
Through self-evaluation nurses develop an
appreciation for life-long learning within,
and beyond professional activities as a
result of personal and professional
development. Nurses will continue the
journey of learning by participation in
professional seminars and conferences,
attending graduate or additional schooling,
and involvement in professional
organizations and career opportunities.
I.
III.
II.
III.
IV.
12
Program Goals
Serve God and humanity in diverse roles
and settings.
Promote the development of leadership
skills and an understanding of the dynamic
health care environment to recommend
constructive change.
Assimilate ethical, moral, spiritual, and
professional concepts into their nursing
practice.
Integrate faith and life-long learning as
they develop concepts inherent in personal,
professional, and spiritual growth, within
the setting of a Christian liberal arts
university.
Promote the development of leadership
skills and an understanding of the dynamic
health care environment to recommend
constructive change.
Serve God and humanity in diverse roles
and settings.
Integrate faith and life-long learning as
they develop concepts inherent in personal,
professional, and spiritual growth, within
the setting of a Christian liberal arts
university.
Promote the development of leadership
skills and an understanding of the dynamic
health care environment to recommend
constructive change.
Assimilate ethical, moral, spiritual, and
professional concepts into their nursing
practice.
RNBSN Handbook 2014
Central Themes
Professional Growth: Nurses scrutinize
I.
their professional growth by completion of
the required course work in the Department II.
of Nursing preparing themselves for
integration into the professional
community. Learning of skills and
competencies will enable nurses to deliver
safe and effective nursing care in a variety III.
of settings.
IV.
Personal Growth: Nurses analyze their
I.
personal growth through effective verbal
and written communication and
II.
appreciation of the nursing process through
research and scientific inquiry. They
demonstrate care for others, application of
knowledge in the Practicum/Project setting,
and a maturing world view.
III.
IV.
Spiritual Growth: Nurses will examine
their knowledge of the Christian faith
through completion of the Biblical classes
offered at the University, synthesis of faith
into service to God, and service to the local
and global community.
I.
II.
IV.
13
Program Goals
Serve God and humanity in diverse roles
and settings.
Integrate faith and life-long learning as
they develop concepts inherent in
personal, professional, and spiritual
growth, within the setting of a Christian
liberal arts university.
Promote the development of leadership
skills and an understanding of the
dynamic health care environment to
recommend constructive change.
Assimilate ethical, moral, spiritual, and
professional concepts into their nursing
practice.
Serve God and humanity in diverse roles
and settings.
Integrate faith and life-long learning as
they develop concepts inherent in
personal, professional, and spiritual
growth, within the setting of a Christian
liberal arts university.
Promote the development of leadership
skills and an understanding of the
dynamic health care environment to
recommend constructive change.
Assimilate ethical, moral, spiritual, and
professional concepts into their nursing
practice.
Serve God and humanity in diverse roles
and settings.
Integrate faith and life-long learning as
they develop concepts inherent in
personal, professional, and spiritual
growth, within the setting of a Christian
liberal arts university.
Assimilate ethical, moral, spiritual, and
professional concepts into their nursing
practice.
RNBSN Handbook 2014
RNBSN PROGRAM LEVEL OBJECTIVES
At the conclusion of each level, the nursing students are expected to achieve the following level
objectives. Each level objective contributes to the program outcomes.
Level 3
A.
NRSG 301 – Introduction to
Informatics and
Baccalaureate Nursing
NRSG 360:
Pathophysiology
NRSG 361: Pharmacology
NRSG 350 – Health
Assessment
NRSG 342 – Transcultural
Nursing
NRSG 395 – Nursing
Research
NRSG 326 – Community
Health Nursing
Level 4
Analyze concepts from the arts and
sciences which contribute to personal
growth.
B. Examine historical and contemporary
perspectives on social, political, ethical,
legal, and economic issues affecting health
care and professional nursing practice.
C. Effectively communicate to probe ideas,
organize information, and produce
solutions to problems.
D. Formulate methods to gather information,
both subjective and objective.
E. Examine the factors which influence the
development of a philosophy of nursing.
F.
Examine respectful and caring behavior
recognizing the uniqueness and worth of
the
individual.
G. Investigate the relationship among values,
culture, environment, and client response
to health experiences.
I.
Investigate critical thinking skills in the
classroom.
J. Analyze principles of safe and effective
nursing practice.
K. Analyze information from a variety of
sources to identify patient care needs.
L. Discover the necessity of lifelong learning,
global citizenship, and service.
M. Examine theories and models which guide
Practicum/Project judgment.
N. Practice professional and ethical behavior
in holistic care of individuals, groups, and
communities.
A.
NRSG 436 – Global Health
Care
B.
14
Develop concepts from the arts and
sciences which contribute to personal
growth.
Analyze historical and contemporary
perspectives on social, political, ethical,
legal, and economic issues affecting health
care and professional nursing practice.
RNBSN Handbook 2014
C.
NRSG 463 –
Leadership/Management in
Nursing
D.
E.
NRSG 470 – Issues in
Health Care, Law, and
Ethics
F.
G.
H.
I.
J.
15
Consistently communicate effectively to
convey ideas across media.
Produce information, compose inferences,
evaluate, and propose solutions to
problems.
Develop respectful and caring behavior
recognizing the uniqueness and worth of
the individual.
Create Practicum/Project decision making
strategies which are safe, situationally
relevant, and ethically responsible to
respond to health needs of clients.
Develop a holistic perspective in the
delivery of nursing care to promote,
maintain, and restore health.
Systematize selected theories and models
to professional nursing practice.
Assess therapeutic responses of
individuals, groups, and communities.
Generalize the relationship among values,
culture, environment, and client responses
to health experiences.
RNBSN Handbook 2014
RNBSN DEGREE REQUIREMENTS AND PROGRAM PLAN
TRANSFER OF CREDIT POLICY
A maximum of 82 credit-hours (or equivalent quarter-hours) may be accepted from
community/junior colleges as transfer credit to the BSN degree-completion program at Olivet.
Only courses with a grade of C or above are eligible for transfer consideration.
DIPLOMA PROGRAM GRADUATE
As a diploma graduate, the following documents must be submitted at the time of application to
the program:
1.
2.
Letter from immediate supervisor
Current vitae
The RNBSN Program Director will make the definitive decision on acceptance into the program.
A maximum of 30 credit hours may be accepted. A fee will be assessed for this opportunity.
LEARNER REQUIREMENTS
1. Learners must be formally admitted to the BSN program by Olivet Nazarene University
officials prior to attending classes.
2. Students who have not completed the six-hour Christianity core general education
requirement prior to entering the BSN program must take Olivet's BIB 315 Understanding
the Bible and THEO 400 – Faith and Contemporary Issues as part of the packaged program.
3. Learners must attend an online orientation, and successfully complete an online Joule
training session.
4. The use of the personal computer is an integral component of Olivet’s RNBSN program.
Specific technology requirements are listed on the Resource page in this handbook. It is not
a requirement, but having your own computer will increase your success. Sharing your
computer with children and other household members can make it difficult to meet course
deadlines.
5. Olivet’s programs are rapid paced. In all such academic programs, class attendance is
extremely important and is expected at all times. Even a single absence or missed class time
equal to one class period will reduce the course grade. The more class time that is missed, the
lower the grade.
6. Students are limited to withdrawing, voluntarily or administratively, or failing 2 nursing
courses. Students may not fail more than on Practicum/Project course in the program.
Students may not enroll in any nursing course more than two times.
7. A cumulative grade point average of 2.75 is required to progress in the Nursing courses.
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RNBSN Handbook 2014
The Nursing programs adhere to a special grading scale, which is listed below. Additional
specific program grade requirements follow the grading chart.
95–100 A
92–94.9 A89–91.9 B+
86–88.9 B
83–85.9 B80–82.9 C+
77–79.9 C
74–76.9 C- non-passing scores BSN programs
71–73.9 D+
"
68–70.9 D
"
65–67.9 D"
64.9 or lower F Failure
BSN Program
· A minimum grade of C (2.0) must be earned in all Nursing courses and in all required
supporting courses.
· A cumulative grade point average of 2.75 is required to progress in the Nursing courses
and to graduate with the Bachelor of Science in Nursing
degree.
8. Learners must submit all course and Practicum/Project assignments in a satisfactory and
timely manner as designated in the course syllabus in compliance with the Assignments and
Discussion Board sections of this handbook. Within each Practicum/Project course, all
Practicum/Project hours must be completed to progress.
9. A minimum grade of C (2.0) is required in each of the supporting courses. A C- is considered
a failing grade.
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
1. Successful completion of the RNBSN program's core curriculum and a minimum of 30
credit-hours of study at Olivet Nazarene University, which is met through the major and
supporting courses.
2. A maximum of 55 semester hours of general education/support coursework that must be
distributed as follows:
a. General Education Requirements
English Composition I
English Composition II
Speech
History
International Culture (three hours met in core curriculum)
17
3 hours
3 hours
3 hours
3 hours
6 hours
RNBSN Handbook 2014
Literature (from Department of English)
Fine Arts
Understanding the Bible
Faith and Contemporary Issues
b. Required Supporting Courses
Basic Concepts of Chemistry
Human Anatomy and Physiology I
Human Anatomy and Physiology II
Microbiology
Introductory Sociology
Statistics
3 hours
3 hours
3 hours
3 hours
4 hours
4 hours
4 hours
4 hours
3 hours
3 hours
3. A total of 128 semester hours of coursework, the balance of which may be earned through
additional classes or CLEP exams.
4. Completion of the upper-division requirement of 40 hours.
5. All nursing, supporting, and general education course and/or Practicum/Project requirements
must be completed within five years of initial enrollment to be awarded the degree of BSN.
6. A cumulative grade point average of 2.75 is required to progress in the nursing courses and
to graduate with the Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing.
7. Degree candidates are required to file an “Intent to Graduate” form provided by the
Graduation Specialist. This form must be received at least two months prior to the expected
date of graduation for January and May conferrals, and six months before August conferral.
8. Payment of all tuition and fees.
RNBSN DEGREE ADMISSIONS, PROGRESSION,
AND DISMISSAL POLICIES
ADMISSIONS, RETENTION, AND PROGRESSION POLICY
1.
2.
Learners must demonstrate the ability to write in a format consistent with undergraduate
level work and professional standards (APA format).
Learners must maintain a 2.75 cumulative grade point average (4.0 scale) to remain in
the program.
Students are limited to withdrawing, voluntarily or administratively, or failing 2
nursing courses. Students may not fail more than one Practicum/Project course in the
program. Students may not enroll in any nursing course more than two times.
3.
If a course is failed (final grade is C- or lower), the student must finish present course
then repeat failed course before moving forward in RNBSN program plan. Failure to
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RNBSN Handbook 2014
demonstrate meeting any of the above will result in student withdrawal by the RNBSN
Program Director. Students will then have to petition to re-enter the program.
Learners must complete all program requirements for core, support, and general
education courses.
4.
RNBSN ACADEMIC INFORMATION AND POLICIES
The Online and On Ground Course - Start and End Dates
Courses start on Day 1 of Week 1 at 12:01 a.m. Courses end on Day 7 of the last week of a
course at 11:59 p.m.
The Course Week
The course week consists of seven days: Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, etc.
Day 1 is the first day the course begins and Day 7 is considered the last day of the week.
Courses may begin on different days of the week for each cohort so faculty and students will
need to equate Day 1 with the start date for a course.
START DAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
DAY 1
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
DAY 3
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
DAY 7
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Submission Times
A day is comprised of the timeframe between 12:01 a.m. and 11:59 p.m. Any coursework
(assignments, discussion questions, etc.) due on a given day must be submitted within this
timeframe to be considered submitted on time.
DISCUSSION BOARD REQUIREMENTS
The grading for discussion activities is outlined in the course-grading rubric. Students are
required to support their discussions with citations, write in APA and provide a reference list at
the bottom of their posting.
Participation points are based on the Discussion Postings. If this is a required part of the course
assessment, the standard policy for discussion requirements and the grading rubric are consistent
in each course syllabus. When discussion is part of the required assessment, to ensure all
members of the learning community have sufficient time to respond, you are expected to adhere
to the following guidelines:

Submit your 250 word initial discussion board post no later than the third day of each
week by 11:59 p.m. CST. You must submit an initial post before writing a feedback post
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RNBSN Handbook 2014




in response to another’s initial post. Your initial post must include your textbook(s) and
at least one scholarly reference beyond textbook(s).
Respond to three of your colleagues’ initial postings with a minimum of 75 word post
during each week on three different days. (your first response can be made on the same
day after your initial post) Each feedback post must include at least one scholarly
reference.
Provide colleagues with reflective thoughts, personal experience, resources, or general
thoughts on the topic.
Posting after the required date will result in a grade reduction as stated in the rubric.
Discussion Board posts need to be in APA format for quotes and references. Due to
limitations with Joule, spacing (single vs. double) will not be considered in the grading.
Placement of periods, parentheses and italics will be graded.
Discussion Forum Code of Conduct
Discussion forums are vital for effective online learning experiences. Students are expected to
project a scholastic demeanor and to interact by posting responses to class activities. Be aware,
however, that online discussions remove the visual and verbal cues of language, requiring even
greater clarity in your writing and further attention to how your writing may be misread and/or
misunderstood. There is also a sense of false anonymity present with online writing/discussions,
and this can lead to the temptation to say something you would never say in a face-to-face
discussion. Students, at all times, are expected to be respectful of their peers, the institution, its
facilities, and its personnel. Demeaning comments, inappropriate, inflammatory, derogatory
language, and/or ethnic, racial, or gender-based comments, suggestions, or undercurrents will not
be tolerated.
Definition of a Substantive Post
All student participation in discussion boards should be substantive, adding value to the
discussion through thoughtful reflection, relevant comments, and an approach that furthers the
discussion and engages other students in dialogue. Effective student initial posts:






Engage in serious reflection on reading material and discussion prompts.
Are relevant to the week’s topic.
Refer to (and cite) reading materials.
Incorporate examples.
Incorporate relevant personal application.
Are written clearly and concisely.
Effective responses to others’ posts:
 Engage in serious reflection.
 Engage other student(s) in dialogue
 Add depth and breadth to the conversation.
 Ask questions.
 Share relevant examples and/or personal experiences.
 Are tied to (and cite) course reading materials.
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RNBSN Handbook 2014
Discussion Requirements and Rubric (Online or On Ground)
Up to 0.5 points can be deducted for APA and/ or grammar.
5 Points (Exemplary)

Discussion postings and responses are responsive to the requirements of the Discussion
instructions and are posted by the due date.

Discussion postings and responses significantly contribute to the quality of interaction by
providing rich and relevant examples, applicable research support, discerning ideas,
and/or stimulating thoughts/probes, and are respectful when offering suggestions,
constructive feedback, or opposing viewpoints.

Discussion postings and responses demonstrate an in-depth understanding of concepts
and issues presented in the course (e. g., insightful interpretations or analyses, accurate
and perceptive parallels, and well-supported opinions), and are well supported, when
appropriate, by pertinent research.

Discussion postings and responses provide evidence that the student has read and
considered a sampling of colleagues' postings and synthesized key comments and ideas,
as applicable.
4 Points (Proficient)

Discussion postings and responses are responsive to the requirements of the Discussion
instructions and are posted by the due date.

Discussion postings and responses contribute to the quality of interaction by providing
examples, research support when appropriate, ideas, and/or thoughts/probes, and are
respectful when offering suggestions, constructive feedback, or opposing viewpoints.

Discussion postings and responses demonstrate some depth of understanding of the issues
and show that the student has absorbed the general principles and ideas presented in the
course, although viewpoints and interpretations are not always thoroughly supported.

Discussion postings and responses provide evidence that the student has considered at
least some colleagues' postings and synthesized some key comments and ideas, as
applicable.
3 Points (Sufficient)

Discussion postings and responses are posted by the due date but are not always
responsive to the requirements of the Discussion instructions.

Discussion postings and responses do little to contribute to the quality of interaction or to
stimulate thinking and learning.

Discussion postings and responses demonstrate a minimal understanding of concepts
presented, tend to address peripheral issues, and, while generally accurate, display some
omissions and/or errors.

Discussion postings and responses do not provide evidence that the student has
considered at least some colleagues' postings or synthesized at least some key comments
and ideas, as applicable.
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2 or Less Points (Developing)

Discussion postings and responses are posted past the late deadline, defined as 11:59 p.m.
on the due date, and/or do not address the requirements of the Discussion instructions.

Discussion postings and responses do not contribute to the quality of interaction or
stimulate thinking and learning.

Discussion postings and responses do not demonstrate an understanding of the concepts
presented in the course, and/or do not address relevant issues, and/or are inaccurate and
contain many omissions and/or errors.

Discussion postings and responses do not provide evidence that the student has read or
considered colleagues' postings, as applicable.
ASSIGNMENTS
Points will be awarded for assignments guided by a grading rubric in each course. The course
syllabus and classroom online links are available for accessing the grading rubric in every
course. Students should use the rubric as a method of ensuring the objectives of the assignment
are met. Students with an unexcused absence will receive a 50% grade reduction for any
assignments submitted during that week. Rewriting graded paper(s) will not be allowed.
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY
Olivet Nazarene University (ONU) supports and promotes academic honesty and personal
integrity. Serious offenses against the University community include cheating, plagiarism, and
all other types of academic dishonesty. Students who are guilty of academic violations will be
penalized. Moreover, any student who knowingly assists another student in dishonest, academic
behavior is equally responsible for the violation.
Academic violations and dishonesty are deceptions of others about one’s own work or about the
work of another. For examples of academic violations, policies for course facilitators, courses of
actions that facilitators can take, appeals procedures, and to read the full SGCS Academic
Integrity statement, please access the ONU Catalog at
http://olivet.edu/catalog/2376.htm.
The University has provided a required title page format in the Supplemental Materials area
above. Click the link, log in to the My.Olivet Portal, and open the Word document to use it. This
title page, which requires a digital signature, must be submitted with all written work to verify
the student’s adherence to authorship certification and APA requirements.
LATE WORK POLICY for Assignments
Late work is highly discouraged; however, in the event you choose to turn in an assignment past
the due date and time, 10% per day will be deducted from your assignment grade. After the third
day no late work will be accepted resulting in a zero for your assignment grade. All work must
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be completed even if it is too late to receive credit towards the course-see comment under course
activities.
ATTENDANCE
NOTE: Unless otherwise defined by program-specific documentation, the following
policies are in effect.
Attendance Policy
It is the responsibility of the student to attend all scheduled class sessions in all on ground and
online classes. In emergency circumstances, a student may be permitted to miss a class session
under the following terms:


The student must seek approval from the instructor prior to the missed class. Failure to
contact the instructor prior to the missed class will result in zero points for all
assignments due that week.
The student must make arrangements with the instructor to complete all assignments and
make up work if assigned by instructor.
Failure to follow this policy may result in an F for the course.
Instructors will address tardiness on an individual basis. Learners are expected to arrive for class
on time and remain for the entire class period.
To be considered present in online classes, the student must log in and post at least one
substantive forum post or assignment per week. No points will be given for late work or missed
discussion postings.
Participation Requirements
Active course participation is defined as fulfilling discussion requirements within the published
timeline and submitting assignments within the published timeline. Substantive student dialogue
(defined in “Discussion Board Requirements” section) is an essential part of the learning process.
Therefore, Olivet courses require consistent, substantive, and timely participation in online
discussion as required in each course syllabus. Although the pedagogy may vary from week to
week within a course and from course to course, discussions are enhanced and learning
strengthened when postings and discussion are substantive and distributed throughout the week,
with two to four days of participation, as a minimum. Therefore, it is standard policy that initial
posts be submitted by 11:59 pm CST on Day 3, and that all responses to others’ posts be
submitted by 11:59 pm CST on Day 7 of the course week.
Failure to post within the expected timeliness, quantity, quality, and frequency of postings as
stated in the syllabus and other course materials may result in grade reduction. Students should
read each syllabus and discussion prompt carefully as posting requirements may vary across and
within courses in order to meet learning goals.
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CODE OF CONDUCT
Students are expected to project a scholastic demeanor and to interactively respond to class
activities. Students, at all times, are expected to be respectful of their peers, the institution, its
facilities, and its personnel. Discussions in the classrooms and online are totally independent of
the work environment. Discussion should remain in the correct arena.
PRACTICUM/PROJECT POLICY
Students are expected to attend all Practicum/Project hours, be on time, be prepared, and to actively
participate. All missed Practicum/Project hours must be made up within the term that the course is being
offered. Students will receive an incomplete grade for the course until all required Practicum/Project
hours are completed. Students must notify the Practicum/Project preceptor and their instructor prior to
any absence.
PRACTICUM/PROJECT REQUIREMENTS
At times, an agency may require verification of updated immunization status, TB status, CPR
certification, and other necessary documents. Students will be expected to submit the Agency
requirements prior to practicum at the Agency site.
PRACTICUM/PROJECT PAPERWORK REQUIREMENT
Completed documents must be uploaded to the link in Joule or submitted to the RNBSN
Program Director, Susie Enfield, at senfield@olivet.edu. Examples following:
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Example
Olivet Nazarene University, School of Nursing & Health Sciences
SGCS, RNBSN Practicum - Preceptor Information Form
Student completes the information and emails this completed form to the preceptor. The preceptor
provides an electronic signature and emails this form to RNBSN Program Director, Susie Enfield, and to
the student. The learner will upload the fully completed forms into the Practicum course via the
designated Joule link by Week 3, Day 1.
Student Information *Students are NOT allowed to fulfill their Practicum in their usual role and/or
unit.
Name:
Title/Position:
Academic Degrees:
Agency Name:
Street Address:
City, State, Zip:
Home Telephone:
Work Telephone:
Mobile Telephone:
Fax:
Email:
Practicum Courses:
NRSG 326 Community Health Nursing / 436 Global Health Care
Please circle the appropriate
NRSG 463 Leadership/Management in Nursing / 470 Issues in
Practicum courses this form
Health Care, Law, and Ethics
addresses.
Date:
Student Signature:
Faculty Notes:
Preceptor Information:
Name:
State, license #, exp. date:
Title/Position:
Preceptor is____ not___ an employee of the agency in which the student will be precepted.
Previously precepted a RNBSN student?
Yes _____ No _____
Employment History: (past five
years)
Academic Degrees/date earned:
Certifications/Through:
Practice Specialty &
Years of Experience in Specialty:
Agency Name:
Street Address:
City, State, Zip:
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RNBSN Handbook 2014
Home Telephone:
Mobile Telephone:
Work Telephone:
Fax:
Pager #:
Email:
My signature verifies that I agree to precept _______________________________ beginning
on ________________________. Signed _______________________________, Preceptor.
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Example
SCHOOL OF GRADUATE AND CONTINUING STUDIES
DEPARTMENT OF NURSING
PRACTICUM AGENCY AGREEMENT
1. Ensure a signed agency agreement exists between Olivet Nazarene University (ONU) and
the agency for your practicum experience by contacting the RNBSN Coordinator. If
there is no agreement, a completed and signed form (attached) must be submitted through
the agency’s administrative office. Please ensure full contact information for the
approving administrative representative is provided.
2. In lieu of the ONU form, the agency may submit a letter approving the student’s
practicum experience to take place there, or a form of their own.
3. Ensuring all forms and documents are submitted via US mail in one envelope by the
designated due date is the sole responsibility of the student. Mail to: RNBSN Program
Director, School of Nursing & Health Sciences, Olivet Nazarene University, One
University Avenue, Bourbonnais, IL 60914.
4. Please fill in the following Preceptor information:
Name
Credentials
I am______ am not_______ an employee of the agency in which I will precept the above
named student.
Mailing address
City, State, Zip
Office Phone
Fax
Email
Cell / Pager #
Education (include institution, degree(s), and Professional Employment Experience
year of graduation):
(include all employment in past 5 years with
dates):
State, license number, expiration date:
Have you previously precepted RNBSN
students?
Yes _____ No _____
Years of Experience in Specialty Area:
Practice Specialty:
Are there any mandates that need to be fulfilled before undertaking this experience?
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Example
OLIVET NAZARENE UNIVERSITY,
DEPARTMENT OF NURSING,
SCHOOL OF GRADUATE AND CONTINUING STUDIES,
RNBSN TRACK
PRACTICUM AGENCY AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE RNBSN STUDENT AND
____________________________________ (AGENCY)
Olivet Nazarene University School of Nursing (ONU) request to utilize the facilities of
________________________________________
for the education of the following RNBSN nursing student:
___________________ _____________________
with guidance from the RNBSN preceptor:
________________________________________
This agreement affirms the value of a high quality practicum experience of RNBSN nursing
students and therefore the practicum agency hereby makes available the use of its facilities.
As independent contractors, each party shall retain responsibility for persons under its control or
supervision and shall agree to indemnify and hold the other party harmless to the extent
permitted by law, from any and all claims, actions and proceedings, judicial or otherwise,
judgments, damages, costs, expenses, and reasonable attorneys’ fees, arising from or in
connection with its respective responsibilities under this agreement, but only in proportion to an
extent such liability, loss, expense, attorneys’ fees or claims for injury or damages are caused by
or result from the negligent acts or omissions of the indemnifying party, its officers, agents,
employees, or other persons under its control or supervision that occur during performance of the
Agreement.
Upon request, ONU will provide the documentation of the criminal history checks of its students
for the Agency to evaluate in order make a determination regarding the placement of a student in
the particular practicum setting. Should the Agency require additional criminal history checks or
drug screening in its evaluation of students for placement in a practicum setting, the Agency
shall provide a written notice of its specific requirement.
I.
The specific responsibilities of the Agency are:
a. To provide practicum experiences for RNBSN nursing student(s).
b. To provide opportunities in the various areas of the Agency as may be arranged by
Agency and University/School.
c. To provide faculty and student orientation covering Agency policies, procedures,
safety, infection control, fire safety, and disaster plan.
d. To provide access to Agency policies for preceptor and student(s).
e. To provide assistance in obtaining emergency health care services at the student’s
expense, if needed, during the practicum experience.
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f. To participate in on-going and final evaluation of the practicum/precepted experience.
g. To have the right to demand the immediate removal of any student from its premises,
upon a determination by the Agency management that the student poses a threat to the
health, safety, or welfare of the Agency’s patients, clients, or personnel or to the
orderly business function of the Agency.
h. To provide no remuneration or compensation to faculty or students during the
practicum experience.
i. To retain the responsibility for the supervision and care of all Agency patients/clients.
II.
The specific responsibilities of the University/School are:
a. To comply with all policies and procedures relative to patient/client care, legal
considerations, quality assurance/risk management and safety established by Agency.
b. To verify Completion of Agency requirements for immunization status, physical
exam, and TB status upon request.
c. To determine, if applicable, that student(s) have and maintain throughout the term of
this Agreement current unencumbered license(s) to practice as registered nurses in
state(s) of practice.
III.
Term of Agreement
This Agreement shall be effective upon its execution for the term of the experience
______________________.
IN WITNESS THEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this agreement to be executed by their
respective authorized officers as of the day, the month, and the year as stated in the first
paragraph of this agreement.
Representatives
Olivet Nazarene University
Typed Name
and Title
Signature
Email contacts
Date signed
Other
signature/title
as required
Mailing
address
Phone
One University Avenue, Box
6046
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
815-939-5340 Department of
Nursing
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Agency:
RNBSN Handbook 2014
Fax
815-939-5383 Department of
Nursing
Accreditation
CCNE
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Example
Olivet Nazarene University, School of Nursing & Health Sciences
SGCS, RNBSN Program
RNBSN Practicum Hour Log Sheet
Log Sheets will document your Practicum time line. Upload this form into the designated Joule link.
Student's Name:
Address:
Preceptor’s Name:
Address:
Preceptor’s Agency:
Date
Total
Hours
Telephone:
Email
Telephone:
Email
Activities Performed
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Preceptor
Signature
RNBSN Handbook 2014
Student Signature___________________________ Date_________________
Preceptor Signature_________________________ Date________________
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Example
Olivet Nazarene University, School of Nursing & Health Sciences
SGCS, RNBSN Program
PRECEPTOR EVALUATION OF RNBSN STUDENT EXPERIENCES
Preceptor, Credentials: _____________________________________________________
Agency: _________________________________________________________________
Student, Practicum Focus______________________________________________________
Please reflect on your image of how a RNBSN prepared nurse should be, do, and act. How
would you rate this RNBSN student’s performance with respect to the following expectations?
Write the appropriate number after each objective:
6 = Strongly Agree; 5 = Agree; 4 = Somewhat Agree; 3 = Somewhat Disagree;
2 = Disagree; 1 = Strongly Disagree; 0 = Unable to Evaluate
This student has demonstrated RNBSN Level Mastery of the following:
Rating
1. A professional and polished demeanor.
2. Critical thinking skills.
3. Ability to plan and organize for improved organizational effectiveness.
4. Application of evidence based practice into organizational processes and
policies.
5. Collaboration to achieve greater departmental and organizational
effectiveness.
6. Ingenuity and self-direction.
7. Ethical, moral, and spiritual behaviors.
8. Written and verbal communication.
9. Readiness for role expansion and greater responsibility.
10. Self-evaluation and analysis for lifelong learning and growth.
11. Involvement in change process and group dynamics.
12. Leadership in service to God and humanity.
What were the strengths of this learning experience for the student?
What needs strengthening (improving)? How could this experience have been designed to
achieve stronger learning outcomes for the student?
Would you be willing to be a preceptor/mentor to a RNBSN nursing student again?
Yes____ No _____
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Additional comments:
Signature: ______________________________________________
Please submit this completed form to RNBSN Program Director, Susie Enfield, upon completion
of the Practicum hours.
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Example
Olivet Nazarene University, School of Nursing & Health Sciences
SGCS, RNBSN Program
Practicum Preceptor Evaluation of RNBSN Student
1.
2.
List each approved
objective, activity, task,
role, etc.
Check the box which
represents your
evaluation of the
student’s level of
accomplishment for each
performed.
Performed
poorly;
minimal
indication of
mastery
Performed
somewhat
poorly; some
aspects of
mastery were
present
Performed
somewhat
well; some
aspects were
poor
Performed
well; some
indication of
mastery
Performed
very well;
good
indication
of mastery
1
2
3
4
5
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Additional Comments:
Signature: _________________________________________________________________________________
Please submit this completed form to RNBSN Program Director, Susie Enfield, upon completion
of the Practicum hours.
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Example
Olivet Nazarene University, School of Nursing & Health Sciences
SGCS, RNBSN Program
Evaluation of Preceptor and Agency by the RNBSN Student
Preceptor: __________________________________________
Cohort: ______________________
Course Number: ______________________________
Date: _______________________
Practice Site:
______________________________________________________________________________________
(Is this a Medically Underserved Community __yes__ no or Population. __yes __no)?
Directions: Rate each item as it corresponds to your experience with the preceptor and agency.
Codes: 0= Unable to Evaluate, 1= Strongly Disagree, 2 = Disagree, 3= Somewhat Disagree, 4= somewhat
agree, 5= Agree, 6= Strongly Agree
Evaluation of Preceptor
Rating Practicum Performance Criteria
1. Demonstrated knowledge and skills for working with the client population at the agency.
2. Demonstrated open and honest communication so that a feeling of trust developed between
preceptor and student.
3. Followed through on commitments.
4. Established an environment conducive to dialogue, discussion and expression of diverse
points of view.
5. Referred student to resource persons and materials.
6. Served as a role model for student.
7. Adequate orientation to the agency, staff, and policies and procedures.
8. Provided appropriate Practicum supervision
9. Would you recommend this preceptor to another student?
Evaluation of Agency
1. The Practicum agency was appropriate for meeting my objectives and course objectives.
2. I recommend this agency as a practicum site for other students.
Additional Comments:
Signature: __________________________________________________________________________
Please submit this completed form to RNBSN Program Director, Susie Enfield, upon completion
of the Practicum hours.
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PRACTICUM/PROJECT ATTIRE
Basic Uniform:
General Professional Practicum/Project Appearance: Your uniform must be of proportionate fit
(not too loose or tight), clean and pressed without wrinkles, and without frays, holes, or tears.
Pants must not drag on the floor. Underwear color or design must not be in contrast with the
uniform. Socks, shoes and laces must be clean. No more than one piercing stud per ear. No other
visible jewelry in body piercings is allowed. Students could be sent home when not in
compliance and it will be considered an unsatisfactory day, which must be made up.
Specific Appearance Considerations:
Dress code: No jeans. Dress pants with modest, appropriately colored blouse. Shoes must have
enclosed heels (no clogs) and toes, heels no higher than 1 ½ inches. A white lab coat will be
needed at all times. The style may be of the student's choosing but it must have buttons or snaps
for a front closure. The length must be knee length. The name pin will be worn on the left front
of the uniform.
Hair: Neatly secured, away from face, and off the collar.
Tattoos: All tattoos must be covered with band aids or tattoo concealer makeup during all
Practicum/Project experiences.
CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK
Students are required to obtain a criminal background check as part of the application process. A cleared
background check must be completed with the admission process and annually thereafter, or you
will be administratively dropped from your Practicum/Project courses. Students should go to the
following internet site and complete the application to begin the criminal background check:
www.certifiedbackground.com.
DRUG SCREENING POLICY
Nursing students must have a cleared urine drug screen on file in the Department of Nursing. The urine
sample results must be dated within the week prior to the start of NRSG 326, the results must be
submitted in the assignment link NRSG 326. This must be completed week one day 7 or students will be
withdrawn from the class. Drug testing is done at the student’s expense. If the drug screen is positive,
the student will be withdrawn from the course. Use of alcohol or illegal drugs, or misuse of prescription
drugs, are strictly prohibited in the classroom, Practicum/Project or laboratory setting.
Readmission following a positive drug screening - Positive drug screen results prohibit students from
practicing in the Practicum/Project environment for six months from the drug screen date, thus you are
hereby dis-enrolled from your nursing courses.
In six months you may reapply by submitting a letter requesting consideration for readmission into the
nursing program to the RNBSN Program Director. Your request will be forwarded to the Dean of the
School of Nursing and Health Sciences for consideration. Your readmission application will require you
to submit:
1. Urine drug screen results to the ONU Department of Nursing.
2. Documentation from a therapist specializing in addiction behaviors indicating a status of recovery
and rehabilitation related to the substance used or abused.
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3. If readmitted, the student will be subjected to random drug screening and/or to “for cause” drug
screening at the student’s expense for the duration of his or her studies in the nursing program.
4. If the student has positive results on a drug screening after readmission to the nursing program,
the student will be dismissed from the nursing program with no option for readmission to the
program.
Readmission into the program will be effective at the start of the next cohort.
“For Cause” Drug Screening
1.
If a preceptor observes a student behaving in a manner that is consistent with the use or misuse
of alcohol, illegal drugs, or drugs which impair judgment, affecting either the classroom,
Practicum/Project or laboratory setting, the student will be removed from the educational
setting and required to submit to an appropriate screening immediately.
2.
If the behavior is noted in the Practicum/Project setting, the student will be removed from the
setting. The student will have to contact the RNBSN Program Director.
3.
If the result of the drug screening is negative, the student shall meet with the RNBSN Director
and Associate Dean of Nursing and Health Science to discuss the circumstances surrounding
the impaired behavior. Based on the information provided and further medical evaluation if
warranted, a decision regarding return to the Practicum/Project, classroom and laboratory
setting will be made.
4.
If the drug screen is positive, the student will be withdrawn from the program. The student
will pay the costs associated with the “for cause” drug screening.
5.
A student’s failure to comply with any aspect of the “For Cause” Drug Screening Requirement
will result in the student’s withdrawal from the Nursing Program without option for
readmission.
SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR PRACTICUM/PROJECT SETTINGS
 Listen to your intuition. If you perceive that you are in an unsafe environment, leave that
environment as soon as possible and seek safety.
 Report any unusual occurrences to your preceptor immediately.
 Park in the institution’s parking facility and in well-lighted areas.
 Before entering an elevator or stairwell, evaluate the area. Don’t enter if you feel it is
unsafe.
 Carry phone numbers with you; preceptor’s contact number.
LIABILITY INSURANCE
The responsibility for the student is assumed by the university for all full time students.
INCOMPLETE GRADES
Students may be given an incomplete for a course at the discretion of the course instructor and
the approval of the RNBSN Program Director. Normally this is granted for a period of no more
than one week beyond the official last day of the course. The student must have 85% of the
course work completed at the time the incomplete is requested. No opportunity is offered to
make up any missing discussion postings. Points for discussion activities are provided according
to the program discussion rubric found in each course syllabus.
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RNBSN Handbook 2014
FINAL GRADE APPEAL - SGCS – NURSING
Evaluation in the form of grading is viewed by the administration as a contractual relationship
between faculty member and learner. Although learners have the right to appeal, actual changes
in grades are rare and at the option of the course facilitator. The administration does not
intervene, except in cases of extreme circumstances, and acts only as an intermediary. NOTE:
Grade reductions due to absences are handled according to the attendance policy and may be
appealed using the policy below.
Should a learner feel there is concrete reason to appeal a course grade, these procedures should
be followed:
1. The learner should initiate the appeal with the course facilitator who assigned the grade
within 7 days. The learner and the facilitator should seek a resolution to the situation.
2. If the learner is not satisfied with the initial grade appeal to the facilitator or if the
facilitator is not available, the learner may initiate a formal grade appeal. Grade appeals
must be initiated within 7 days after the date grades are posted. Learners should contact
the RNBSN Program Director to request a grade appeal form.
3. The learner should fill out the form completely and return it to the SGCS office within 7
days after the appeal request is made. A copy of the appeal is kept on file in the School of
Graduate and Continuing Studies office, and one is sent to the course facilitator.
4. The course facilitator responds to the appeal within 7 days on an appropriate form and
returns it to the SGCS office.
5. The RNBSN Program Director is sent copies of both the learner’s appeal and the
facilitator’s response to the appeal. The RNBSN Program Director then has 14 days to
respond to the learner's appeal. The learner is notified in writing of the decision.
6. If the learner is not satisfied with the response from the RNBSN Program Director, he or
she may appeal to the Academic Review Committee. The learner must submit an appeal
within 7 days of the date the letter from the RNBSN Program Director.
7. The RNBSN Program Director and the facilitator are notified and the Academic Review
Committee is convened by the Dean of Academic Integration. The Academic Review
Committee is comprised of the Dean of Academic Integration and two University faculty
members. If the appeal is based on a decision made by a member of the committee, that
member steps down from the appeal; an appropriate substitute is appointed by the Dean of
Academic Integration.
8. The Academic Review Committee records the nature of the appeal, action taken, and
rationale. The Dean of Academic Integration gives copies of the appeal record to the
learner, the course facilitator responsible for the course grade, and the RNBS Program
Director.
9. The Dean of Academic Integration notifies the learner in writing of the disposition of the
appeal, as determined by the Academic Review Committee.
10. The Academic Review Committee is considered the highest formal level of appeal.
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RNBSN Handbook 2014
Appeal of Administrative Withdrawal
If a student has been administratively withdrawn from the SGCS RNBSN program and feels
there is a concrete reason to appeal the withdrawal these procedures should be followed:
1. Within three business days of receipt of their notification of administrative
withdrawal, the student should submit a written appeal to the Dean of the School of
Nursing and Health Sciences.
2. The Dean of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences will investigate the
circumstances surrounding the withdrawal and the decision will be communicated in
writing to the students within 3 days of their appeal.
Process of Re-entry
The student should contact the enrollment counselors at 1–877-4-OLIVET or sgcs4@olivet.edu
to initiate the process of re-entry.
PERSONAL PORTFOLIO
Throughout the RNBSN program we recommend that you construct a portfolio of your
benchmark assignments. This is not an assignment that will be turned in, but it will be beneficial
to you when interviewing for jobs when you are able to show the quality of work that you are
able to produce. We suggest that you make the recommended changes to the designated
benchmark assignments and save them to a flash drive for creating your personal portfolio.
BENCHMARK ASSIGNMENTS FOR RNBSN PERSONAL PORTFOLIO
RNBSN - LEARNING OUTCOME EVIDENCE
NRSG 350 – Health Assessment
NRSG 342- Transcultural Nursing
NRSG 395 – Nursing Research
NRSG 436 – Global Health
NRSG 463 – Leadership/Management in Nursing
NRSG 470 – Issues in Health Care, Law, and Ethics
RNBSN Outcome characteristics matched to classes
Ethical – NRSG 470, NRSG 395
Moral – NRSG 470, NRSG 395
Spiritual – NRSG 342
Life Long Learner – NRSG 436
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Modified Health Assessment Paper
Cultural Interview and Assessment Paper
Mini Proposal
Global Assessment
Strategic Plan
Personal and Professional Practice Values Paper
Growth –NRSG 470, NRSG 350
Leader – NRSG 463
Change Agent – NRSG 436
RNBSN Handbook 2014
NURSING COURSES FOR REGISTERED NURSES
NRSG 301 – Introduction to Informatics and Baccalaureate Nursing (3 hours)
This course presents an overview of concepts for professional nursing practice and nursing
informatics. The historical, philosophical, and professional perspectives are presented as the
genesis for the development of professional nursing. Emphasis is placed upon the theoretical
basis for the science of nursing. Also included in the module are the concepts of communication
between health providers, to assist nurses in obtaining health information, and to assist nurses as
they develop health education materials and health presentations.
NRSG 360- Pathophysiology (3 hours)
The focus of this course is to strengthen the understanding of selected pathophysiological
processes. Emphasis is placed on the concepts of common pathophysiologic processes and their
relationship with current health issues utilizing evidence based nursing practice.
NRSG 361- Pharmacology (3 hours)
This course helps the licensed nurse better understand clinically relevant pharmacological
concepts and principles. Topics to be discussed include principles of drug actions and
interactions, drug categories and the prototype of each, and drug considerations through the life
span. The nursing process is utilized as students continue to build upon previous knowledge of
assessment, implementation, and evaluation of pharmacotherapeutics.
NRSG 350 – Health Assessment (3 hours)
The focus of this course is to strengthen physical assessment knowledge through the
understanding of selected assessment processes. Emphasis is placed on the respiratory,
circulatory, abdominal, and neurological systems as to nursing history, examination, and
documentation.
NRSG 342 – Transcultural Nursing (3hours – online)
In this course, the development of cultural sensitivity is studied. Learners design delivery of
culturally appropriate nursing care incorporating the role and function of the family across the
life span.
NRSG 395 – Nursing Research (3 hours -)
This course provides the basic foundation for an understanding of nursing research. Included in
the course are an overview of nursing research, steps in the research process, research designs,
research methodology, data collection and analysis, and utilization of research.
NRSG 326 – Community Health Nursing (3 hours The focus of this course is on the role of a nurse in the health and well-being of the community.
Health promotion, disease prevention, and health maintenance of local communities are assessed
and evaluated. The health care delivery system, cultural diversity, ethics, and sociopolitical
forces are examined. High risk population aggregates are studied and the roles of various
community and public health nurses are explored. Resources investigated will include
community agencies, clinics, and government agencies. 22.5 Practicum/Project hours required to
complete course.
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RNBSN Handbook 2014
NURS 436 - Global Health Care (3 hours)
The course is designed to provide an overview of international health issues and the role of the
nurse in preserving and promoting health in diverse communities. Students will analyze the
health of global communities and discuss potential avenues of health promotion, health
protection, health prevention, and health maintenance. Target populations are assessed and
evaluated in relation to health care access and sociopolitical forces. Principles of epidemiology
are explored and the effects of environmental health issues are evaluated. 22.5 Practicum/Project
hours required to complete course.
NRSG 463 – Leadership/Management in Nursing (3 hours - online)
This course is the study of management and leadership theories, principles, and concepts. This
course will focus on transforming personal leadership. Emphasis is placed on facilitating
professional leadership behavior. 22.5 Practicum/Project hours required to complete course.
NRSG 470 – Issues in Health Care, Law, and Ethics (3 hours)
A critical examination of the profession of nursing in the 21st century will be analyzed within
theoretical frameworks. Topics will include legal, ethical, political, and professional issues that
will challenge students. These timely topics will be presented in a way that will provoke thought,
dialogue, and debate. The future of nursing within the evolving health-care system will be
speculated. 22.5 Practicum/Project hours required to complete course.
SUPPORTING COURSES
ENG 200 COLLEGE RESEARCH AND WRITING II (3 HOURS)
APA College Research & Writing builds on the skills learned in ENG 150. It teaches the
process of inquiry and emphasizes research, evaluation, analysis, synthesis, and
documentation of sources in APA style.
BIB 315 UNDERSTANDING THE BIBLE (3 hours)
This course is a survey of the major genres of literature in the Bible, and an introduction to
principles of interpretation for each genre. Students will trace six major themes through the Bible
in order to get an overview of the whole. The course gives special attention to the concept of the
covenant community and to the centrality of Jesus as the focus of the whole. The course provides
many opportunities for students to apply key lessons to their own lives.
MTH 116 (3 hours)
This course is an introduction to statistical methods, including sampling, measures of dispersion,
averages, and statistical inferences.
THEO 400 – Faith and Contemporary Issues (3 hours)
This course is designed to expand understanding of the content of Christian faith, its historical
development, and its expression in ethical living. Learners explore the major religious traditions
in Christian history, including their own, compare the major ecumenical and Protestant
confessions of faith, and examine biblical foundations of Christian doctrine and lifestyle. This
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RNBSN Handbook 2014
course is required of all learners, and, in part, meets the general education requirements for
Christianity.
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RNBSN Handbook 2014
EXAMPLE OF PROGRAM PLAN
OLIVET NAZARENE UNIVERSITY
Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree
Degree Completion Track
Dates & course sequence subject to change
The School of Graduate and Continuing Studies reserves the right to change this schedule if
necessary.
Group:
BSN.
Class Night:
Chaplain:
Class Site:
Class
Term/Instructor
Credits
1. ENG 200 College Research
and Writing II
2. NRSG 301 Introduction to
Informatics & Baccalaureate
Nursing
3
3
3. NRSG 360 Pathophysiology
3
4. NRSG 361 Pharmacology
3
5. NRSG 350 Health Assessment
3
6. NRSG 342 Transcultural
Nursing
7. BIB 315 Understanding the
Bible
3
3
8. MTH 120 Intro to Statistics
3
9. NRSG 395 Nursing Research
3
10. NRSG 326 Community
Health Nursing *22.5
3
Practicum/Project hours
11. NRSG 436 Global Health
Care *22.5 Practicum/Project
3
hours
12. THE 400 Faith &
3
Contemporary Issues
13. NRSG 463
Leadership/Management in
3
Nursing *22.5
Practicum/Project hours
14. NRSG 470 Issues in Health
Care, Law, and Ethics *22.5
3
Practicum/Project hours
Classes will not meet on the following dates:
Your degree conferral is scheduled for.
Total hours required to graduate = 128 semester credit hours (minimum)
(Refer to Bulletin--General Graduation Requirements)
There will be a $ service fee for any changes in registration
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RNBSN Handbook 2014
PRIVACY AND CONFIDENTIALITY UNDER THE HEALTH
INSURANCE PORTABILITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT OF 1995
(HIPAA)
To ensure your written course assignments comply with the 1996, Health Insurance Portability and
Accountability Act, please never name:
 Your employer
 A patient
 A co-worker
Breaking a HIPAA privacy rule may jeopardize the Practicum/Project affiliation agreement between
ONU and the health care institution and may result in the student’s removal from the
Practicum/Project site and/or nursing program. Criminal penalties for wrongful disclosure can
include not only large fines but also prison time. The criminal penalties increase as the seriousness of
the offense increases. These penalties can be as high as fines of $250,000 or prison sentences of up to
10 years. A modification to HIPAA is the HITECH (Health Information Technology) Act.
To be eligible for American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (2009) funding, healthcare facilities
must prove they are HIPAA compliant. The HITECH Act defines and enforces compliance
standards, rules, and penalties related to the electronic exchange of the electronic medical or
health record (EMR, EHR) programs and Patient Health Information (PHI). In gross summary,
HITECH requires:
1. Enforced HIPAA compliance —willful neglect may result in up to a fine of $250,000 for a
single violation and repeated violations may be fined up to $1.5 million. Anyone can initiate a
complaint regarding non-compliance.
2. Access to EMR — all health records must be available as an EMR and/or shared (by patient
permission) as an encrypted PHI (ePHI) record.
3. Accountability of Business Associates — health care business associates and providers must
ALL adhere to privacy/security requirements or EVERYONE is culpable (Compliance
Compatibility Security Rule).
4. Notification of Data Breach — it is mandatory to notify a patient of a data breach of any
unsecured information, meaning that it was shared with a business associate using an
unencrypted format or without patient permission.
5. Additional Requirements — HITECH defines additional requirements to address patient
privacy in electronic marketing and accounting practices.
For the latest information regarding HIPAA, go to http://www.edocscan.com/hitech-act-hipaacompliance-regulations
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RNBSN Handbook 2014
BENNER LIBRARY
Benner Library makes numerous resources available for nursing students. In addition to a full
complement of nursing books, Benner provides a substantial number of nursing periodicals, both
in print and in electronic format. Nursing students have access to several health-related online
article databases. Articles not available in full text may be ordered through Benner’s
Interlibrary Loan service. The nursing home page can be accessed at
http://library.olivet.edu/pubserv/guides/nursing/index.html.
Should other library resources be needed, Olivet students can request materials from any other
library in CARLI, a consortium of 76 Illinois academic libraries. In addition, ONU nursing
students have access to libraries at many of the Practicum/Project agencies.
Access Benner Library’s home page at http://library.olivet.edu for the most current information
about the library’s resources and services, including specific information for off-campus
students. For additional assistance, contact the Interlibrary Loan Department at (815) 928-5439
or the Reference Desk at (815) 939-5355, or ill@olivet.edu.
PROGRAM EVALUATION
Assessment is an integral part of student learning. The assessment process involves observation
and judgment of each student’s academic performance on the basis of explicit criteria established
in the course syllabi. In the assessment process feedback is also essential. Faculty feedback
provides the student with information that can be used to reflect on one’s personal and
professional growth and development within the teaching-learning environment. Program
assessment illustrates program effectiveness to the faculty and larger community. The
achievement of program outcomes is determined by multiple assessments, and the student’s
evaluation of course learning. Outcomes are analyzed and the aggregate data is used to develop,
maintain, and revise the curriculum.
Students and faculty are required to complete any course and program assessment data
collection instruments honestly to support quality improvement. The Dean of School of Nursing
and Health Sciences is committed to ensure building best practice educational experiences for
ONU’s BSN program. This assurance is based on quality feedback from students, faculty, and
community of interest.
THE HONOR SOCIETY OF NURSING, SIGMA THETA TAU
INTERNATIONAL, KAPPA SIGMA CHAPTER
Kappa Sigma Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International invites RNBSN students with a grade
point average of at least 3.0 or higher and fall within the top one-third of their class who
demonstrate academic excellence, potential for leadership, and a desire to advance the profession
of nursing to apply for membership. Invitations are extended from the chapter faculty counselors
in the spring. Fifty percent of courses must be completed before RNBSN students are eligible.
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RNBSN Handbook 2014
AMERICAN NURSES ASSOCIATION CODE FOR NURSES
Code of Ethics for Nurses
The ANA House of Delegates approved these nine provisions of the new Code of Ethics for
Nurses at its June 30, 2001 meeting in Washington, DC. In July, 2001, the Congress of Nursing
Practice and Economics voted to accept the new language of the interpretive statements resulting
in a fully approved revised Code of Ethics for Nurses with Interpretive Statements.
1. The nurse, in all professional relationships, practices with compassion and respect for the
inherent dignity, worth and uniqueness of every individual, unrestricted by considerations
of social or economic status, personal attributes, or the nature of health problems.
2. The nurse's primary commitment is to the patient, whether an individual, family, group,
or community.
3. The nurse promotes, advocates for, and strives to protect the health, safety, and rights of
the patient.
4. The nurse is responsible and accountable for individual nursing practice and determines
the appropriate delegation of tasks consistent with the nurse's obligation to provide
optimum patient care.
5. The nurse owes the same duties to self as to others, including the responsibility to
preserve integrity and safety, to maintain competence, and to continue personal and
professional growth.
6. The nurse participates in establishing, maintaining, and improving healthcare
environments and conditions of employment conducive to the provision of quality health
care and consistent with the values of the profession through individual and collective
action.
7. The nurse participates in the advancement of the profession through contributions to
practice, education, administration, and knowledge development.
8. The nurse collaborates with other health professionals and the public in promoting
community, national, and international efforts to meet health needs.
9. The profession of nursing, as represented by associations and their members, is
responsible for articulating nursing values, for maintaining the integrity of the profession
and its practice, and for shaping social policy.
American Nurses Association, Code of Ethics for Nurses with Interpretive Statements, Silver
Spring, MD: American Nurses Publishing, 2001.
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RNBSN Handbook 2014
RESOURCES
APA
Olivet Nazarene University requires that all written work of students adheres to the guidelines
established by APA (6th ed.). If students require assistance with APA, it is recommended to use
tools of student success on ONU’s Portal.
Technology Requirements
All students are responsible for their own Internet and Computer Access. The following is
recommended:
Component
Minimum
Recommended
Processor
Intel Pentium III or AMD K6-3 or Macintosh
G4
Intel Pentium IV 2.8GHz or AMD Athlon XP 2800+ or Macintosh
G5
Memory – RAM
128 MB
512 MB
Hard Drive
1 GB free space
More than 1 GB free space
Operating
System
Windows 98SE or Macintosh OS 9
Windows XP Professional or Macintosh OS X
Software
Microsoft Office 2007
Microsoft Office 2007
*Maintain current Anti-virus software
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RNBSN Handbook 2014
RNBSN TELEPHONE DIRECTORY
Information Technology Help Desk
815/939-5302
it@olivet.edu
School of Graduate and Continuing Studies
sgcs4help@olivet.edu
877/465-4838
RNBSN Program Director, Susie Enfield
senfield@olivet.edu
815/939-5029
Benner Library Assistance/Research, Pam Greenlee
pgreenle@olivet.edu
815/928-5439
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