University of South Carolina Aiken
School of Nursing
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Student Handbook 2016-2017
The University of South Carolina Aiken Bachelor of Science degree in nursing pin
features the colors of red and gold. Central to the BSN pin is the Double Knot, a
symbol of the integral and ongoing relationship between the University and the
community. The state seal of South Carolina is boldly portrayed to emphasize that
USCA is a state school. The rays of light at the top of the pin represent the light of
knowledge.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Student Declaration……………………………………………………………………………… 1
Introduction………………………………………………………………………………………. 2
Faculty, Staff & Administration…………………………………………………………………… 2
SON Mission………………………………………………………………………………………..4
Philosophy…………………………………………………………………………………………. 4
Conceptual Framework……………………………………………………………………………..5
Outcome Objectives……………………………………………………………………………….. 7
Academic Policies & Procedures………………………………………………………………… 8
Ability Statement………………………………………………………………………………… 8
Academic Integrity Policy………………………………………………………………………… 8
Upholding Academic Integrity (Copy of Form) …………………………………………... 9
USCA Honor Pledge (Copy of Form) …………………………………………………….. 9
Statement of Understanding the Honor Pledge (Copy of Form) ………………………….. 9
Advisement………………………………………………………………………………………… 10
American with Disabilities Act…………………………………………………………………… 11
USCA Policy……………………………………………………………………………….. 11
Attendance…………………………………………………………………………………………. 11
Classroom………………………………………………………………………………….. 11
Clinical……………………………………………………………………………………... 12
Exam Days………………………………………………………………………………… 11
Tardiness…………………………………………………………………………………… 12
Background Check………………………………………………………………………………… 15
Basic Life Support (CPR) Policy………………………………………………………………… 16
Clinical Rotations………………………………………………………………………………… 12
Clinical Placement………………………………………………………………………… 12
Refusals…………………………………………………………………………… 13
Clinical Requirements………………………………………………………………………15
Clinical Scope of Practice Policy………………………………………………………….. 13
Critical Incidents………………………………………………………………………….. 13
Contact Information………………………………………………………………………………... 20
Name, Address, Email Changes…………………………………………………………… 20
Name Badge……………………………………………………………………………… 20
Core Performance Standards for SON…………………………………………………………… 14
Dress Code………………………………………………………………………………………… 18
Drug Policy………………………………………………………………………………………… 20
Definitions & Regulations………………………………………………………………… 21
Grading…………………………………………………………………………………………… 22
Grading Scale……………………………………………………………………………… 22
Grading Policy for Online Exam Dates…………………………………………………… 22
Clinical Grading…………………………………………………………………………… 22
Judicial Processes………………………………………………………………………………… 23
Student Grievances………………………………………………………………………… 23
Student Right to Petition……………………………………………………………………23
Part-Time Schedule…………………………………………………………………………………23
Progression and Retention Policies…………………………………………………………………24
Testing………………………………………………………………………………………………25
Medication Calculation Proficiency Testing Policy……………………………………….. 25
Standardized Testing………………………………………………………………………..25
Graduation Requirements……………………………………………………………………….. 25
Inter-Curricular Enhancement (ICE) Requirement………………………………………… 25
Writing Intensive Requirement………………………………………………………… 25
Writing Portfolio Requirement…………………………………………………………….. 25
Health…………………………………………………………………………………………… 26
Blood Borne Pathogen Exposure Policy……………………………………………………………26
Pregnancy………………………………………………………………………………………….. 28
Acknowledgement/Waiver Form………………………………………………………….. 58
Student Health Requirements & Annual Updates…………………………………………………. 17
Professional Expectations………………………………………………………………………… 29
Behavioral Contracts………………………………………………………………………. 29
Classroom Behavior………………………………………………………………………... 29
Ethics……………………………………………………………………………………….. 29
Requirements for Application for Licensure Examination…………………………………….. 29
SON Support Services & Organizations…………………………………………………………. 30
Representation on SON Committees……………………………………………………………….. 30
Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society (STTI) …………………………………………….. 31
Student Nurses Advisory Council (SNAC) …………………………………………………………38
Student Nurses Association (SNA) ………………………………………………………………… 38
Student Awards & Criteria……………………………………………………………………….. 33
Clinical Excellence Awards………………………………………………………………………… 33
Nomination Form…………………………………………………………………………….35
Scholarships…………………………………………………………………………………………. 36
STTI Pi Lambda Chapter, Excellence in Leadership, Scholarship and Service Award……………. 32
Outstanding Student Nurses’ Association (SNA) Award…………………………………………… 38
Technology………………………………………………………………………………………….. 39
Computer Literacy…………………………………………………………………………………… 39
Personal Internet Networking Sites………………………………………………………………….. 39
University Student Services…………………………………………………………………………39
Academic Success Center……………………………………………………………………………. 39
Career Services………………………………………………………………………………………. 39
Counseling Center…………………………………………………………………………………… 39
Disability Services…………………………………………………………………………………… 40
Math Lab……………………………………………………………………………………………...40
Writing Room…………………………………………………………………………………………40
Appendices
Ability Statement…………………………………………………………………………………….. 42
Consent to Release Background Check & Drug Screen Results…………………………………….. 43
Event Reporting……………………………………………………………………………………… 56
Petition……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 57
Student Nurse Association…………………………………………………………………………… 44
By-Laws……………………………………………………………………………………… 50
Consent to Serve (SNA) …………………………………………………………………….. 55
Pregnancy Forms…………………………………………………………………………………….. 58
Acknowledgement of Suspected Pregnancy and Waiver of USCA Responsibility…………. 58
Pregnancy-Student Release Form*……………………………………………………………59
Student Grade Report for Participation in School of Nursing Supported Activities………………… 60
Policies and procedures contained in this handbook are subject to change without notice and may be obtained via consultation
with the Dean of the School of Nursing.
The University of South Carolina Aiken is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and
Schools to award baccalaureate and master’s degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur,
Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the status of the University.
The School of Nursing offers the Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This program is approved by the South Carolina State Board of
Nursing and is fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, One Dupont Circle, NW, Suite 530,
Washington, DC 20036-1120; Telephone number: 202-887-6791; Fax number: 202-785-8320; e-mail address:
www.aacn.nche.edu.
University of South Carolina Aiken
School of Nursing
Student Declaration
I acknowledge that I have been informed that the 2016-2017 Bachelor of Science in Nursing Student
Handbook is available on the School of Nursing website. I also acknowledge that I have been informed that
the Handbook is updated every year, with revised Handbooks being published on the SON website every
August.
I understand that I am responsible for reading the 2016-2017 Bachelor of Science in Nursing Student
Handbook in its entirety and that I am accountable for all information and policies contained therein. I
understand that I am also responsible for reading the revised Handbook every August it its entirety and that
I am accountable for all revised information and policies contained therein.
Student Name (Print)
Student Signature
Date
Faculty or Staff Witness
Date
To be completed at Orientation and thereafter each fall.
Introduction
1
School of Nursing Mission
The School of Nursing, consistent with the mission of the University of South Carolina Aiken, endeavors to prepare
students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in a rapidly changing society. The School of Nursing
contributes to the profession of nursing and to the development of students through the provision of quality nursing
education that prepare graduates with the nursing knowledge and competencies necessary to: 1) assume responsible
positions in the delivery of health care and 2) utilize evidence based knowledge in the discipline of nursing.
The School of Nursing values the roles of diploma, associate degree, and baccalaureate degree prepared nurses
within the discipline of nursing. The curricula for the BSN tracks offered by the School of Nursing provide a
foundation of nursing knowledge, theory, and practice. The university setting, with course work from an array of
disciplines, provides a framework within which personal and professional growth is enhanced.
Philosophy
Nursing, as an art and science with a diverse theoretical base, is a vital component of health care. The
scientific base of nursing expands as theories are advanced, developed from practice, tested in practicebased research, and further refined for practice in a variety of settings. Because the knowledge base for
nursing is continually advancing and health care is evolving, nurses must be prepared for change. The
body of knowledge called nursing is unique; however, it is based in part on knowledge gleaned from the
humanities, social, behavioral, and physical sciences.
Nursing practice includes the delivery of care to individuals, families, groups, and communities in a variety
of settings and the promotion of health and wellness. Nursing care is holistically based and sensitive to the
diversity of the clients served and their values.
As members of a profession, nurses function as participants in the health care team in an evolving health
care system. Nurses have a responsibility to be cognizant of regulatory processes that impact the definition
and implementation of nursing care. Commitment to life-long learning is necessary to maintain
competence within the nursing profession.
Entry level educational preparation for the registered nurse currently exists at the diploma, associate,
baccalaureate, and master's degree levels. The knowledge, skills, and abilities of graduates entering
practice from these different nursing education programs vary widely. It is incumbent upon nursing
education to differentiate the competencies of the graduates of each of the education programs to determine
the appropriateness of the curriculum and instructional methods.
Nursing Education
Baccalaureate nursing education is designed to prepare professional nurses for a complex multifaceted role
in the health care system. Today's graduate is expected to practice at a high level, quickly, with
comprehensive knowledge, and in a great number of structured and unstructured settings.
Professional nursing education is based on a strong liberal arts and scientific foundation. This background
provides the student with the knowledge that will support decision making and critical thinking. It exposes
the student to diverse perspectives that mold values and beliefs that will influence later judgments.
The liberal education core is an integral part of the nursing education. Nursing courses are designed to help
students make connections between theories and principles from the liberal arts, physical, social, and
behavioral sciences and nursing education. This reinforcement of concepts aids the students in applying
what they have learned to develop an understanding of situation in nursing practice.
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To prepare students for a rapidly changing, complex system of health care, the faculty must engage
students in active learning strategies that support a diversity of learning styles. The faculty believes that
helping students to recognize their individual learning styles and active to participate actively in the
learning process enables them to become independent, life-long learners.
Conceptual Framework
The framework for the nursing curriculum is organized around the three central concepts of professional
values, communication, and role development. Critical thinking is the process used to implement these
concepts and is an essential tool in systematically providing care to individuals, families, groups, and
communities.
Critical thinking is purposeful and goal-directed (Halpern, 1984) and uses a variety of mental skills, such as
reasoning, inference, creativity, deduction and prioritization to assist the individual in problem solving.
For this process to function, the individual must identify that a problem exists, have the knowledge to
address the problem and the capacity to use that knowledge effectively (Watson & Glaser, 1980). Critical
thinking skills enable the nurse to continuously process information and systematically approach problems
within their context.
Professional Values, Caring, and Diversity
Baccalaureate education in nursing provides for the development of professional values. "Values are
beliefs or ideals to which an individual is committed and which are reflected in patterns of behavior"
(American Association of College of Nursing (AACN, 2009, p. 26). Acceptance of each individual's worth
and dignity leads one to embrace certain concepts related to nursing care of individuals. The faculty have
identified caring and diversity as central values for the baccalaureate curriculum.
Caring is a core value of nursing. Caring includes "the nurse's empathy for and connection with the
patient, as well as the ability to translate these affective characteristics into compassionate, sensitive,
appropriate care" (AACN, 2009, p.27).
Diversity refers to "a way of thinking, a work value that not only tolerates but values difference"
(Hegyvary, 1992) and includes cultural, racial, ethnic, socioeconomic, religious, and lifestyle factors.
These differences demand that nurses recognize the influence of diverse values in individuals' health
beliefs and practices and responses to health care.
Value development culminates in behavior that shows commitment to the identified values. This behavior,
in turn, involves making decisions and judgments in nursing practice. Ethics, defined by Yeo (1996, p. 30)
is the "careful and systematic reflection and analysis" of values and how they bear on practical issues, helps
nurses to be explicit about their decisions. Knowledge of ethics and ethical decision-making is essential
for baccalaureate graduates who will be expected to apply a professional code of ethics to clinical practice
and to use ethical principles in decision-making in clinical situations. The American Nurses Association
Code of Ethics for Nurses (2001) will be incorporated throughout the curriculum.
Communication
"Communication is a complex, ongoing, interactive process and forms the basis for building interpersonal
relationships. Communication includes listening, as well as oral, nonverbal, and written communication"
(AACN, 1998, p. 10). Communication includes therapeutic strategies to enhance the nurse-patient
relationship and professional interchanges within a multidisciplinary healthcare environment.
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Contemporary nurses are expected to utilize data from a wide range of resources. These resources include
oral and written communication as well as technology, such as computers and media. Critical thinking
skills are used to adapt communication techniques for diverse patient populations and contexts (AACN,
2009).
Role Development
Role development is an essential concept of undergraduate nursing education. The role of the beginning
professional nurse includes an ability to function as a (a) provider of care, (b) coordinator of care,
(c) member of a profession.
Provider of care
The role of care provider requires competency in applying each step of the nursing process in all settings.
Care is provided to individuals, families, groups, and communities across a wide array of environments and
diverse populations. The provider of care must demonstrate competency in the performance of required
technical skills; must be able to think critically and make decisions related to clinical observations; must be
able to access and transmit information as needed; and must be sensitive to the entire spectrum of needs
represented by each client. The provider of care incorporates the provision of information related to health
promotion, risk reduction, and disease prevention to all clients as appropriate. The provider of care
recognizes the global nature of health care and is proficient in the use of information technology (AACN,
2009).
Designer/Coordinator/Manager of care
The generalist baccalaureate nurse functions autonomously and interdependently within the healthcare
team and has the knowledge to delegate healthcare tasks and supervise and evaluate healthcare personnel.
Accountability rests with the generalist nurse for the nursing care outcomes resulting from their own
practice and delegated nursing care. “Nurses are members of healthcare teams, composed of professionals
and other personnel that deliver treatment and services in complex, evolving healthcare systems. Generalist
nurses bring a unique blend of knowledge, judgment, skills, and caring to the healthcare team” (AACN,
2009, p. 9).
Member of a profession
Baccalaureate generalist nurses are members of the nursing profession and as such are advocates for
patients and the nursing profession. This role requires the formation of a professional identity,
accountability for a personal professional image, and a commitment to both personal and professional
development. Requiring strong critical thinking, clinical judgment, communication, and assessment skills,
the professional nurse participates in professional organizations and is active in policy processes aimed
toward defining and shaping health care delivery and systems of care. In a constantly changing health care
environment, the role of a member of a profession requires a commitment to life-long learning; the nurse
accepts personal responsibility for professional development including graduate study and maintenance of
professional competency. The professional nurse accepts the values and ethics of the profession and
incorporates these values and ethical principles into clinical practice (AACN 2009).
The BSN Program has two tracks of study, one for the generic student seeking RN licensure after
graduation and the other for RNs with an associate degree or diploma in nursing who are seeking to
complete the BSN degree.
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Outcome Objectives
The BSN curriculum at USCA is congruent with the Essentials of Baccalaureate Education as specified by
the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (2009)
The graduate of the BSN program at USCA:
Essential I: Liberal Education for Baccalaureate Generalist Nursing Practice
Integrates and synthesizes theories and concepts from a general liberal arts education and builds upon these
throughout the professional nursing curriculum.
Essential II: Basic Organizational and Systems Leadership for Quality Care and Patient
SafetyDemonstrates leadership skills in various health care settings by designing, managing, and
coordinating professional nursing care, in order to facilitate quality improvement in healthcare and ensure
patient safety.
Essential III: Scholarship for Evidence-Based Practice
Provides professional nursing care based on knowledge derived from theory and research.
Essential IV: Information Management and Application of Patient Care Technology Demonstrates
technological skills in the search and retrieval of information, patient care technology, and computerized
information systems.
Essential V: Health Care Policy, Finance and Regulatory Environments
Applies knowledge of financial and regulatory health care policies in professional nursing practice.
Essential VI: Interprofessional Communication and Collaboration for Improving Health Outcomes.
Communicates and collaborates with clients, families, and other healthcare professionals to provide high
quality and safe patient care.
Essential VII: Clinical Prevention and Population Health
Applies strategies for health promotion, risk reduction, and disease prevention across the life span at the
individual and population levels.
Essential VIII: Professionalism and Professional Values
Functions as a competent member of a profession demonstrating professionalism that reveals legal conduct
and the values of caring and diversity, altruism, autonomy, human dignity, integrity, and social justice.
Competence is maintained through lifelong learning.
Essential IX: Baccalaureate General Nursing Practice
Provides professional nursing care, undergirded by understanding and respect for variations and increased
complexity, to individuals, families, groups, communities, and populations across the lifespan and across
the continuum of healthcare environments with consideration for the increased use of healthcare resources.
Critical thinking is the process used to assimilate this.
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Abilities Statement Academic Policies and Procedures
Students entering the BSN Program will be required to perform certain skills requiring specific abilities.
See Appendix in this BSN Student Handbook for the "Abilities Statement" that all students must sign prior
to beginning the nursing program.
Academic Integrity Policy
All students will read and sign the integrity statements upon entry to the SON. The statements will be
signed only once and students will be held accountable to the USCA Academic Integrity Policy throughout
their entire course of nursing studies.
Academic Integrity is the guiding principle of all aspects of the educational process. It is defined as respect
for one’s own work and the work of others. By becoming a member of the University of South Carolina
Aiken community, each individual agrees to abide by this principle. The principle of Academic Integrity
and all procedures supporting it shall be referred to as the “Academic Code of Conduct”. It is the
responsibility of every student at USCA to be familiar with the “Code”, to adhere steadfastly to
truthfulness and to avoid dishonesty, fraud, or deceit of any type in connection with any academic
requirements*. Any student who violates this principle, attempts to violate it or who knowingly assists
another in violating it shall be subject to discipline. As members of the USCA community, it is also the
responsibility of every student, faculty and staff member to report violations of academic integrity to the
faculty member in whose course these violations took place or to another person of authority such as a
department chair/school dean.
The principle of Academic Integrity prohibits all forms of academic dishonesty – including cheating, lying,
bribery and plagiarism. The following examples illustrate conduct that violates Academic Integrity, but this
list is not exhaustive.
1. Giving or receiving unauthorized assistance, or attempting to give or receive such
assistance in connection with the performance of any academic work.
2. Unauthorized use of materials or information of any type or the unauthorized use
of any electronic or mechanical device in connection with the completion of any
academic work.
3. Access to the contents of any test or examination or the purchase, sale, or theft of
any test or examination prior to its administration.
4. Use of another person’s work without proper knowledge of source, i.e. plagiarism.
5. Intentional misleading of any person in connection with any academic work
(including the scheduling, completion, performance, or submission of any such work).
6. Offering or giving any favor or thing of value for the purpose of influencing
improperly a grade or other evaluation of a student in an academic program.
7. Conduct intended to interfere with an instructor’s ability to evaluate accurately
a student’s competency or performance in an academic program.
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Plagiarism Statement
Plagiarism is a violation of the USCA Academic Code of Conduct and Academic Integrity and is the use
of another person’s words or ideas without providing credit to that person. It is the theft of another
person’s words or ideas to give the impression that you created them. These words and ideas may be from
a variety of sources including printed works, speeches, presentations, and/or Internet sites and documents.
Appropriate and complete referencing of words and ideas obtained from others is a requirement in ALL
courses. If a work is anonymous, as may be the case with some Internet documents, it still must be fully
referenced.
Charges of plagiarism will result if students fail to provide adequate documentation of another person’s
words or ideas, whether published or unpublished. Additionally, the purchasing of a pre-written paper,
having someone else write a paper or complete an assignment for you with or without payment, and
submitting another person’s work as your own are other examples of plagiarism.
A charge of plagiarism will be handled in accordance with the USCA policy Consequences for the
Violation of Academic Integrity outlined in the current USCA Student Handbook.
Only the appropriate faculty member can “authorize” assistance, use of materials, etc.
Whenever a student is uncertain as to whether conduct would violate Academic
Integrity, it is the responsibility of the student to seek clarification from the appropriate faculty member
prior to engaging in such conduct. *Academic requirements include works submitted for academic
progression or graduation or any graduate or undergraduate course work.
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Upholding Academic Integrity Form
To assure that you are aware of the policy on Academic Integrity in the School of Nursing and in the
University of South Carolina Aiken, you are required to sign the following honor pledge and statement of
understanding. The signed document outlines the consequences if you violate the principle of Academic
Integrity at any time during your entire course of study while a nursing student at USCA.
Name:
(please print)
USCA Honor Pledge: As a commitment to maintain Academic Integrity and accept academic
responsibility, the following statement will appear on all major examinations and assignments:
“On my honor as a University of South Carolina student, I have completed my work according to the
principle of Academic Integrity. I have neither given nor received any unauthorized aid on this
assignment/examination.”
All students are required to sign the pledge each time it appears on exams and assignments.
Signature:
Date:
Statement of Understanding of the Honor Pledge as it applies to the entire course of study for the
School of Nursing, including all Standardized Testing:
A. I understand that if I violate the honor code, I shall be disciplined according to the policy outlined in the
current edition of the USCA Student Handbook which states that the consequences for the violation of
the principle of Academic Integrity may result in a failing grade for the course, suspension from
USCA for a period of time, or expulsion from USCA.
B. I understand that the honor code applies to all areas of the course of study including, but not limited to,
tests, quizzes, group work, papers, care plans, homework and charting.
C. I understand that if I violate the honor code, I may also be expelled from the School of Nursing.
D. I understand that during standardized testing, I may take the test only once. I must not use a cell phone
or any other resource materials (such as textbooks, notes, personal data assistants (PDAs), or personal
calculators) during the test. In addition, I understand that I must not collaborate, work together with
another student(s), or copy another student’s answers during the examination.
Signature:
Date:
Adopted: September 2004 Revised: March 2006; Reviewed 6/07, 6/08; 6/09; 6/10; 11/14
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Advisement
Responsibilities of academic advisors and students in the advisement process and maintenance of student
records:
Academic Advisors:
1. The School of Nursing Generic academic advisor is Kathy Simmons, M.Ed. Dr. Thayer McGahee
advises Generic Honors students. Mrs. Karen Morgan is the advisor for the BSN Completion students.
2. The Academic Advisors are expected to advise all of their advisees throughout their Program of
Study.
3. The academic advisor will document advisement activities and decisions on the “Advisement Notes”
form at the conclusion of the advisement session.
4. The assigned Academic Advisor will be responsible for:
a. Advisement of assigned advisees in an orderly progression through the prescribed and published
program of study
b. Periodic review and documentation of the student’s progress, e.g., completion of courses in the
prescribed program sequence, total credit hours successfully completed, accuracy of the expected
date of program completion recorded; and
c. Accurate and updated maintenance of the student record, defined as including:
1. Program of Study
2. Grade report of the semester most recently completed
3. Credits earned in the space provided on the Program of Study form.
Student:
1. The student advisee is expected to become knowledgeable about all USCA and School of Nursing
policies, e.g., pre-registration, etc. and graduation requirements.
2. Students hold the ultimate responsibility for their progression and program completion, i.e.,
students are expected to monitor their own credits earned as well as grades earned and be
knowledgeable of program requirements for graduation.
3. A student is responsible for notifying both USCA and the School of Nursing of any name and/or
address changes. Forms are available in the nursing office.
4. The Advisement Office will notify all students of advisement, pre-registration, and registration dates by
USCA email.
5. It is the student’s responsibility to adhere to procedures regarding advisement appointments, preregistration, registration, and fee payments.
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Americans with Disabilities Act
Specific information related to the ADA can be found in the current USCA Graduate & Undergraduate
Bulletin
USCA Policy
If you have a physical, psychological, and/or learning disability that might affect your performance in a
class, please contact the Office of Disability Services, B&E 126, (803) 641-3609, as soon as possible.
The Office of Disability Services will determine appropriate accommodations based on medical
documentation.
The mission of The Office of Disability Services is to facilitate the transition of students with disabilities
to the University environment, and to act to provide appropriate accommodations for each student's
special needs in order to insure equal access to all programs, activities, and services at USCA.
Attendance
Classroom or online attendance is expected. Attendance in clinical is required to pass the course. In the
event of an unavoidable absence, the student must give prior notification to the clinical professor. An
arrangement for missed/excused work is made at the discretion of the course coordinator.
Attendance Policy for Classes
All students are expected to be present for EACH class and to be on time. Absences will be excused for
incapacitating illness, official representation of the University, death of a close relative, religious holiday,
or other circumstances preventing attendance but beyond the control of the student. It is the student’s
responsibility to obtain the missed class material.
Attendance Policy for Exam Days
Attendance on exam days is mandatory. Exams will be rescheduled only in the event of documented
student incapacity and at faculty discretion. If a student is unable to take an exam on the scheduled day,
the student must notify the professor PRIOR to the exam. The student, if excused for the absence, must
schedule to make-up the test within two days of returning to class. Failure to do so will automatically
result in a zero for that test.
Attendance Policy for Clinicals
To pass each clinical nursing course, students are required to attend all clinical experiences, be on time,
and comply with the uniform and dress requirements as outlined in the current BSN Student Handbook. In
the event that a student is absent from a clinical experience because of illness, inclement weather, or any
other unforeseen circumstance, the student must:
1. Personally notify the instructor and course coordinator prior to the clinical experience or in the
event of an emergency, within 24 hours.
15
2. Arrange with the course coordinator and instructor for clinical make-up. These arrangements should
be made with the course coordinator by the next official school day.
3. Complete the assigned clinical make-up experience or activity according to the discretion of the
course coordinator and availability of clinical resources.
4. Failure to follow the above instructions may result in failure of the course.
5. If a student has been absent from clinical on more than one occasion, it may not be possible for the
student to make up the clinical experience. In this event, the student may receive a grade of “I”
(Incomplete) or a non-passing grade and will not progress to the next level.
If there is an unexcused absence (for example: a planned or unplanned personal trip, any event
outside a sponsored USC Aiken event, a sponsored USC Aiken event without prior permission from
the course coordinator, or an illness without a physician’s excuse), the student will not pass the
clinical portion of the course and will not progress to the next level.
6. Under no circumstances may students be excused early from clinical for any reason except an
emergency.
Tardiness Policy for Clinicals
Students are required to arrive appropriately attired at or before the appointed time for all clinical
experiences. In the event that a student will be late for a clinical experience, the student must:
1.
Call the clinical instructor prior to arrival, give the reason for being late, and indicate the time of
arrival on the nursing unit. (This means that each student must have the contact telephone
information for the clinical instructor and the course coordinator.)
2.
Arrange with the course coordinator and clinical instructor for make-up of lost time.
3.
Complete the missed clinical assignment according to the discretion of the course coordinator
and availability of clinical resources.
4.
For Pediatric Clinical experiences only – in addition to the above, the student must notify the
charge nurse of expected tardiness.
In the event of chronic lateness (more than once), a behavioral contract may be initiated. The student
may also be sent home at the discretion of the instructor without the option of a make-up clinical day.
Chronic lateness puts the student at risk for not reaching the standard required to pass the course.
Clinical Rotations
Clinical sites are used throughout the region. Students can expect to travel up to an hour away. Students
also can expect to be assigned to evening and weekend clinical schedules.
Students are not allowed to care for any patient who requires an N-95 respiratory mask because this requires
special fitting of the mask. These are usually patients who have been placed on airborne precautions, such
as TB patients.
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Guidelines for Clinical Placement
In order to provide the best possible clinical experience for students, faculty will make every effort to
arrange clinical placements for students on a unit where the student does not work. However, in certain
nursing specialties where clinical units are scarce, it may be necessary to assign students to a unit where
they work. If a student is assigned to a unit where they work, the course coordinator will notify the nurse
manager and the clinical instructor will notify the charge nurse/team leader that the student’s role must not
be confused with the work role and that the student must not be considered as staff while in the student
role.
Refusal of a Clinical Agency to Allow a Specific Student Clinical Placement
If a student is refused permission to provide care in a particular clinical facility to which they are assigned,
and reassigning the student to a different clinical facility is not a prudent, reasonable option in the opinion
of the Dean of the School of Nursing, the student may not be able to meet course objectives and may not
progress in the USCA School of Nursing.
Clinical Scope of Practice Policy
When nursing students are in clinical with their instructor, they must practice according to the scope of
practice prescribed for the student clinical experience. A student who is a Licensed Practical Nurse must
practice according to the level and scope of practice for a BSN Generic Student Nurse.
17
Critical Incidents Policy
Critical incidents which will result in failure to pass a course (grade of F) include but are NOT limited to:
1. Client Safety:
Is physically or verbally abusive to patient.
2. Communication:
Does not maintain client confidentiality
**Intentionally falsifies records.
3. Critical Thinking:
Makes independent clinical decisions that are clearly not within the student’s
domain and that endanger the patient.
4. Responsibility and Accountability:
**Is dishonest: i.e., lying, cheating, stealing
5. Role Boundaries:
a. Fails to notify the instructor/preceptor when student knows a patient.
b. Contacts a patient or facilitates a patient in contacting another student
outside of the boundaries of clinical (i.e., giving a patient ones own or
another student’s phone number)
c. Returns to clinical site outside of school hours without permission of
instructor
d. Participates in preceptorship or shadowing without notifying course
coordinator or clinical faculty in advance.
e. Refuses to follow appropriate chain-of-command for concerns related to
clinical
6. Incivility:
**Engages in inappropriate or unprofessional behavior and/or
communication with peers, patients, clinical preceptor, clinical site
personnel, and/or USCA SON faculty/staff. This includes verbal, nonverbal,
and written incivility.
**These critical incidents are not necessarily course specific. Violation of these particular critical
incidents will result in dismissal from the School of Nursing.
18
Core Performance Standards for the School of Nursing
The Core Performance Standards for the School of Nursing are available to all potential applicants, nursing
faculty, staff and students to determine the need for ADA related accommodations. The following
information also appears on the syllabus for each nursing course: “If you have a physical, psychological, and/
or learning disability which might affect your performance in this class, please contact the Office of
Disability Services, 126A B&E, (803) 641-3609, as soon as possible. The Disability Services Office will
determine appropriate accommodations based on medical documentation.”
Reasonable accommodations will be made on an individual basis; however the student must be able to
perform in an independent manner or academic dismissal may occur. Examples provided below do not
comprise an exhaustive list.
Core Performance Standards for the USCA School of Nursing
Requirements
Mobility and
Motor skills
Standards
•
A candidate must have adequate motor
function to effectively perform and work
with nursing problems and issues and
carry out related nursing care.
• Possess four (4) functional limbs (normal
or artificial) that allow the student to
perform abilities sufficient to move from
room to room and maneuver in small
places and possess gross and fine motor
abilities sufficient to provide safe and
effective nursing care .
• Possess the ability to exert 20-50 lbs of
force occasionally; 10-25 lbs. of force
frequently; and negligible to 10 lbs of
force constantly to move objects.
Examples
• Ability to assist with ambulating
and therapeutically positioning
patients; cardiopulmonary
resuscitation; the administration
of intravenous, intramuscular,
subcutaneous and oral
medications; the application of
pressure to stop bleeding; the
opening of an obstructed airway;
the provision of patient/client
daily hygiene care
• Ability to move about patient’s
room, work spaces and treatment
areas.
• Calibration and use of
equipment
19
Sensory
Visual
Auditory
Tactile
•
Has normal or corrected vision with the
range of 20/20-20/80, be able to
distinguish color shades.
•
Visual ability sufficient for observation
and assessment necessary in patient care.
Auditory ability sufficient for monitoring
and assessing health needs, or corrected
haring ability within the 0-45 decibel
range
Tactile ability sufficient for physical
assessment
•
•
Professional
Interactions and
Communication
•
Mental/Emotional
•
• Ability to observe/assess and
evaluate patient’s condition and
responses to treatments
•
•
Ability to hear monitoring device
alarm and other emergency
signals
• Ability to discern auscultatory
sounds and cries for help
• Ability to palpate in physical
examinations and various
therapeutic interventions; ability
to perceive temperature changes
and pulsations; and ability to
differentiate different structures
and textures.
Possesses communication abilities
•
sufficient for appropriate and effective
professional interaction with others in
both oral and written form.
• Possesses interpersonal abilities sufficient
to interact appropriately and effectively
with a diverse population of individuals,
families and groups from a variety of
•
backgrounds.
•
Possess the mental and emotional ability
to adapt to the environment, function in
everyday activities, and cope with
stressors.
Not limited to ability to recognize
changes in skin color or color of
drainage; distinguish gradations
on syringes when drawing up
medications; visualize the
appearance of surgical or
traumatic wounds
•
Ability to explain treatment
procedures and /or initiate health
teachings, document nursing
actions and patient responses,
establish appropriate and
professional rapport with patients
and colleagues.
Capacity to engage in successful
civil discourse.
Participate in peer accountability.
Demonstrates behaviors
appropriate to the situation, uses
appropriate coping strategies.
20
Critical thinking
•
•
•
Possesses critical thinking ability for
effective clinical reasoning and clinical
judgment consistent with B.S.N
education.
Applies principles of logical or scientific
thinking to define problems, collect data,
establish facts, and draw valid
conclusions.
Interprets and implements a variety of
technical instructions. Deals with several
abstract and concrete variables.
•
•
Use of the nursing process to
identify cause and effect
relationships and the development
of patient care plans.
Demonstrates personal
organization, practical application
of safe health care delivery to
include the use of technology and
mathematical calculations.
Clinical Requirements
Background Check
USCA affiliated hospitals and health care agencies require that a state and national background check be
conducted on all direct patient care givers. Students must agree to report any felony or misdemeanor
charges (excluding minor traffic related violations), which occur during their enrollment in the School of
Nursing to the appropriate Program Director. Failure to report and engage in the resolution of current or
future felony or misdemeanor charges and/or convictions in a timely (within 10 business days) and
complete manner, and failure to provide requisite information pertinent to dispose or pending cases are
violations of the University’s Honor Code. Offenses will be reported to the student Judiciary System and
may serve as grounds for dismissal from the School of Nursing.
The School agrees to use student information for admission screening and to obtain clinical education
placements only.
The School and University make the final decision as to whether a student with a positive report may
proceed to matriculation. The clinical agency makes the final decision about whether a student with
a positive report any be placed at that site.
Procedure:
1. Students will be advised of the policy regarding background check in the USCA School of
Nursing BSN Student Handbook and on applications for admission to the School of Nursing
programs.
2. Students will sign a “Consent to Release Background Check and Drug Screen Results”
authorizing the School of Nursing to release the information regarding their criminal records
check to clinical facilities required by law to have this information.
3. Anonymous results of the background checks will be sent to the Chief Nursing Officer of SC &
GA clinical agencies in which the students are assigned for clinical. Permission to provide care
in a clinical facility will be determined by the facility.
4. Students who are refused permission to provide care in a clinical facility to which they are
assigned because of their positive criminal background check and/or illegal drug screen will not
be allowed to take any further clinical courses and may be dismissed form the nursing program.
5. Background checks will be required of students and faculty according to the requirements of
the affiliated clinical agencies.
USCA affiliated hospitals and health care agencies require that a criminal records check be conducted
on all direct patient care givers. All Generic BSN and BSN Completion students admitted to the
21
School of Nursing will be required to obtain a state and national background check that includes:
• Patriot Act
•
Social Security Alert
•
Residence History
•
Criminal Records
•
Sex Offender Index
•
NW Health Care Fraud and Abuse Scam
Students must be aware that if they have been convicted of a crime other than a minor
traffic violation, they will be required to report any conviction upon application for
licensure.
Basic Life Support (CPR) Policy
All students are required to have current CPR certification. Accepted courses are offered through the
American Heart Association Healthcare Provider or American Red Cross Professional Rescuer. All students
enrolled in nursing courses are required to maintain current certification in Basic Life Support (adult, child
and infant CPR, conscious obstructed airway, and unconscious obstructed airway, AED use). The
certification must remain current for the entire academic year: mid August through mid May.
Certification cards must be provided to the School of Nursing by the stated deadline. The student will
NOT be allowed to attend class or clinical until the requirement is met. The school of nursing will NOT
accept any written notification of class attendance, including rosters. The only exception to this
policy is if the student takes the BLS Course with the USCA School of Nursing, the roster will be
acceptable as proof of having taken and passed the course. BLS courses are available at the end of every
spring semester. The times are posted throughout the School of Nursing Building.
Student Health Requirements and Annual Updates
Students are required to meet health requirements of the University as listed in the USCA Bulletin. When
students enter the School of Nursing and the clinical nursing course sequence, they are required to abide by
all health requirements set forth by the USCA affiliating health care agencies.
1. Obtaining an initial health exam from their MD, PA or NP. Thereafter the student will submit a selfreported annual Update Physical Form.
2. Students will provide an initial two-step PPD. Thereafter an annual one-step PPD on the School of
Nursing Annual Update PPD form. Students will submit initial proof of all required immunizations
and/or titers) by the stated deadline. If any of these requirements are not met by the stated
deadline, the student will not be allowed to attend clinical.
3. Providing evidence of current BLS certification (CPR Card) by the stated deadline. If this
requirement is not met by the stated deadline, he student will not be allowed to attend clinical.
4. Documentation of titers or immunizations for the following:
a) Rubella
b) Rubeolla
c) Mumps
d) TDAP
f) Hepatitis B
g) Varicella (statement of disease will not be accepted)
h) Seasonal flu vaccine
22
To comply with the mandatory requirements set forth by affiliating health care agencies, health
information: Update Physical, PPD and CPR must cover an entire Academic Year, mid-August
through the end of the following April and must be updated by June of each year according to the
stated deadlines by the School of Nursing. If a student fails to provide any of the above health
information by the stated deadline the student will not be allowed to attend class or clinical until the
requirement has been met.
USCA offers a Health Services Program for students; however, these services are limited. Therefore,
students are encouraged to carry accident and illness insurance.
3. Completion of the following forms (students will sign these at the beginning of their first nursing
semester):
•
•
Confidentiality Form
Student Release Form
•
•
•
Ability Statement
Drug Policy
Criminal Background Check Release Form (Generic BSN & Non-practicing BSN Completion
students)
Standardized Testing Contract (BSN Completion students exempt)
•
4. Additional physical, drug screen and background check may be required depending on assigned clinical
facility. Student is responsible for the physical fee. Student nursing fees will pay for the drug screen and
background check.
5. Signing the statement: “I understand that I am responsible for reading the current Bachelor of Science
in Nursing Student Handbook in its entirety and that I am accountable for all information and policies
contained therein.”
5. Providing their own transportation to and from clinical sites.
6. Attending all scheduled class/clinical functions.
7. Input into the School of Nursing through the established School of Nursing Committee structure.
Dress Code
Personal appearance is an important factor in the effective delivery of health care. Students are expected to
wear the approved student nursing uniform in clinical areas. It consists of the following:
Female
1. Specified uniform pants and women’s scrub top. Pants, worn at the natural waist, are to be
hemmed to the top of the sole of the nursing shoe at the back of the heel.
2. Solid white long or short sleeved crew necked tee-shirt may be worn under the scrub top. No
other colors or styles will be permitted.
3. White scrub jacket
4. White stockings or white ankle socks (with pants) and clean solid white leather professional
shoes. (Shoes must be comfortable, fit correctly and without open toes or heels and without
design).
23
5. USCA name badge on right upper side of scrub top or jacket. Patch must be on left
sleeve of scrub top and (if worn) scrub jacket.
6. Watch with second hand.
7. Under certain circumstances, arrangements may be made for students to wear
specified uniform skirts along with the regular uniform scrub top. White hosiery
and white shoes must be worn.
8. Under certain circumstances students may be allowed to wear cultural or religious
attire with the permission of the Dean of the School of Nursing.
9. Under no circumstances will socks be permitted to be worn with a skirt.
10. Under no circumstances may students wear their student uniforms to work. The
student
uniform is to be worn for School of Nursing clinical experiences only.
Students must go professionally attired to clinical institutions to receive their clinical
assignment for the following day. (Professional attire includes: full uniform or slacks, shoes
with a covered toe and heel, blouse/shirt that tucks in or completely covers the waist/hip band of
the slacks, and lab jacket with USCA badge and name tag as specified by the course
coordinator.) Under no circumstances may jeans or flip flops be worn. Some courses may
require students to wear full student uniform to clinical institutions to receive their clinical
assignments.
11. On all occasions where students represent the USCA School of Nursing (SNA or
other school related activities), professional dress as described above is required.
Male
1. Specified pull on uniform pants and men’s scrub top. Pants, worn at the natural waist, are to
be hemmed to the top of the sole of the nursing shoe at the back of the heel.
2. Solid white long or short sleeved crew necked tee-shirt may be worn under the scrub top. No
other colors or styles will be permitted.
3. White scrub jacket.
4. White socks and clean solid white leather professional shoes. (Shoes must be comfortable, fit
correctly and without open toes or heels and without design.)
5. USCA name pin on right upper side of scrub top or jacket. Patch must be on left sleeve of scrub
top and (if worn) scrub jacket.
6. Watch with second hand.
7. Under no circumstances may students wear their student uniforms to work. The student
uniform is to be worn for School of Nursing clinical experiences only.
8. On all occasions where students represent the USCA School of Nursing (SNA or other school
related activities), professional dress as described above is required.
24
9. Under certain circumstances students may be allowed to wear cultural or religious attire with
the permission of the Dean of the School of Nursing.
Students must go professionally attired to clinical institutions to receive their clinical assignment for the
following day. (Professional attire is “dressy” or business casual attire and includes: full uniform or khaki
or other dressy slacks, (no jeans of any color); a not-too-short skirt with tights or stockings (no bare legs); a
shirt that tucks in or completely covers the waist/hip band of the slacks, no low cut blouses, no tank tops,
no bare midriffs), lab jacket with USCA badge and name tag as specified by the course coordinator; and
appropriate shoes, no open toes, open back shoes (shoes must have a covered toe and heel). Under no
circumstances may jeans or flip flops be worn. Some courses may require students to wear full student
uniform to clinical institutions to receive their clinical assignments.
Instructions will be given by course faculty regarding any other restrictions regarding clothes and
jewelry.
*
Instructions will be given by course faculty regarding any other restrictions regarding clothes and
jewelry.
Additional Dress Requirements
Hair:
Hair must be styled in a manner that will maintain asepsis in client care and
permit students to work without violating aseptic principles. Secure hair
away from the face and without ornaments. Short bangs are appropriate;
however, longer hair must be secured away from face.
Jewelry:
Plain metal wedding band may be worn with the uniform. Neither the nursing
program nor the health care facility assumes responsibility if jewelry is lost. No chain
necklaces may be worn. Students are permitted to wear the Student Nurse Association
pin with their uniform. Metal medical alert jewelry may be worn by students.
Body Piercing Pierced earrings are allowed only if they are very small and are not ornamental
(small studs only). A maximum of two earrings per ear. Facial piercing is not
acceptable.
Clinical agencies determine any exceptions to the above body piercing rules.
25
Body Art:
All body art must be covered.
Fingernails &
any Perfume:
not
Short fingernails are required to ensure client safety. No tips are allowed in
health care facilities. Clear nail polish is permissible. The use of perfume is
allowed, as it is offensive to many persons who are ill or convalescing.
Chewing
Gum:
Chewing gum in the clinical setting is not allowed. Eating should be confined to
areas designated by the facility. No smoking in uniform.
Personal
Hygiene:
Good personal hygienic practices are essential to health promotion. Students are
also expected to wear clean, neatly pressed uniforms and clean hose/socks and
shoes. Men should be clean-shaven or with neatly trimmed established beard or
mustache.
Students who violate any of the uniform or dress requirements will be sent home for the reason,
“not prepared for clinical” and will receive a clinical unsatisfactory for that day.
Contact Information
Procedure for Name, Address, and Email Change
Name Change:
1.
Record name change in the records Office in the Penland Administration Building.
2.
Inform the School of Nursing Office. Forms are available in the nursing office.
3.
Change email address. Go the CSD Helpdesk in the B&E building for assistance.
Please be advised if you do not change your email address you may miss vital SON information.
However, you will continue to be held accountable for all information emailed to students.
Address Change:
Address changes may be completed in SSC.
USCA Name Badge Policy
A USCA name badge is required for all clinical experiences.
26
SON Drug/Alcohol Policy
The School of Nursing maintains a drug free environment. All students will be required to submit
to a drug screening test. The cost of the drug screen and the background check are borne by the
students and are included in the student fees. If any affiliating clinical institution will not allow the
student to practice as a student nurse in their institution because of a positive drug screen, the student
cannot attend any
clinical experiences at any institution and will be dismissed from the School of Nursing. Failure to
comply with a drug screen requirement will also result in dismissal from the School of Nursing.
Given the easy access to controlled substances in the health care setting and the potential risk to patients
and others if health care associates are attempting to perform their duties while using or having used
drugs or alcohol, the University of South Carolina Aiken School of Nursing has adopted the following
policy regarding drugs and alcohol. This policy is a promulgation of the rule for the purpose of health
and safety. The use of drugs or alcohol poses a genuine and serious threat to patients, students, and
faculty.
The sale, manufacture, distribution, purchase, use, possession, or reporting to school or clinical while
impaired by intoxicants, hallucinogenic drugs, marijuana or other non-prescribed controlled substances is
prohibited. The distribution, sale, purchase, use or possession of equipment, products and materials
which are used, intended for use, or designed for use with non-prescribed controlled substances also is
prohibited while a school or in clinical. Being at school or in the clinical with a measurable quantity of
intoxicants, non-prescribed narcotics, hallucinogenic drugs, marijuana or other non-prescribed controlled
substances in blood or urine is not allowed.
Students on prescribed drugs that alter thought processes or motor skills will not be allowed to
attend clinical or class. Students on prescribed drugs are warned to avoid abuse or over-dose on
these medications. These prescribed medications should not be transferred to any other person.
Definitions and Regulations
Certain situations may, at the discretion of the instructor or clinical agency, require screening for
substance use and abuse. A student may be requested to undergo a blood test, urinalysis, or other
diagnostic test under any of the following circumstances:
1. Where there is reasonable cause to believe the student is impaired by or that there is a
measurable quantity of intoxicants, drugs, marijuana or narcotic while in class or in the
clinical area.
2. After the discovery of any missing controlled substance or other unusual event in the clinical
area, which the instructor believes may indicate a violation of this policy or a mishandling of
controlled substances.
3. Upon successful completion of a drug or alcohol rehabilitation, up to 12 months after return to school.
27
Being under the influence of alcohol shall be defined according to the following:
Students are conclusively presumed to be under the influence of alcohol when alcohol level is 50 mg/dl
or greater as measured via Breathalyzer. The USCA Public Safety Department will conduct the
Breathalyzer test. Having a measurable quantity of unauthorized controlled substances or illegal drugs is
testing positive at the detectable level.
The following activities may also be considered a violation of this policy:
1. Switching or altering any urine samples submitted for drug or alcohol testing.
2. Refusing to consent to testing or to submit a breath, urine, saliva, or blood sample for testing
when requested by instructors.
3. Conviction under any criminal drug statute.
4. Refusing to sign a statement to comply with the School of Nursing’s Drug and alcohol
use/abuse policy.
5. Refusing to complete a medical questionnaire and consent form prior to testing or providing
false and/or misleading information.
6. Refusing to complete the toxicology chain or custody form after submission of a urine or
blood specimen.
The following may result in disciplinary action up to and including suspension or immediate
discharge from the nursing program:
1. A student’s refusal to immediately submit to:
A request search of his/her person or property, blood test, urine drug screen, or other diagnostic test.
2. A student has a positive laboratory result on such tests indicating impairment or prior use
of intoxicants, non-prescribed narcotics, hallucinogenic drugs, marijuana or other nonprescribed controlled substances, or
3. If the student submits an adulterated specimen.
Students with a drug or alcohol problem who voluntarily come forward to seek assistance will not be
treated in a negative manner. These students will be expected to seek counseling until which time they
are declared recovered. Follow-up drug evaluations will be expected up to 12 months after return to
school. A statement from the physician is required prior to the student’s return to school.
Students will be asked to read this policy and sign it at the beginning of the BSN Program.
28
Grading Policy
SON Grading Scale:
Passing Grades
Failing Grades
A = 91-100
C = 77-79
B+ = 89-90
D+ = 75-76
B
D = 70-74
= 83-88
C+ = 80-82
F
= Below 70
According to School of Nursing Policy, a grade of “C+” or better is required in all nursing
courses. Final grades will be rounded up at the end of the semester. ONLY the final grade will be
rounded up from the tenth decimal place. Example: a final grade of 79.5 will be rounded up to 80.0.
A final grade of 79.45 will remain unchanged. In some Writing Intensive courses, the paper grade
may not be included in the final grade average unless a 79.5% average is earned on objective exams.
Policy for Online Exam Dates:
Scheduled Online Exam dates are mandatory. Online exams will be rescheduled only in the event of
documented student incapacity and at faculty discretion. If a student is unable to take an online exam
on the scheduled date(s), the student must notify the professor PRIOR to the exam. The student, if
excused for the absence, must schedule to make-up the test within two days of the test date(s). Failure
to do so will automatically result in a zero for that test.
Clinical Grade
Failure to reach the standard required to pass the clinical portion of the course will result in not passing
the entire clinical course (clinical and classroom) and students will not be able to progress to the next
clinical level. The assignment of a non-passing grade (C, D+, D or F) will be at the discretion of course
faculty in consultation with the Dean of the School of Nursing.
Judicial Processes
Student Grievances
The School of Nursing at USC Aiken strives to provide a positive learning environment for all students.
However, if a student has a grievance, the student should follow the Grievance Procedure outlined in the
current USCA Student Handbook. The School of Nursing supports and abides by the policies and
procedures outlined in the current USCA Student Handbook, for resolution of student grievances.
Student grievances address any academic complaint in which, in the student’s judgment, the student has
been treated unfairly or improperly. Students seeking redress of grievances may do so without fear of
reprisal.
The following issues cannot be addressed using the above grievance procedure: sexual
harassment, disciplinary decisions, housing appeals decisions, residency classification decisions,
traffic appeals decisions or any other type of decision where a clearly defined appeal process
exists.
29
Student Judicial Process
The University of South Carolina Aiken, as an institution of higher education, accepts its obligation to
provide for its students, faculty, and staff an atmosphere that protects and promotes its educational
mission and guarantees its effective operation. The Student Judicial Process is outlined in the current
USCA Student Handbook and includes but is not limited to: Academic Code of Conduct, Disciplinary
Procedures for Violations of Academic Integrity, Due Process, Student Conduct, and Procedures for
Responding to Violations of the Non-Academic Code of Conduct. The School of Nursing adheres to all
policies and procedures outlined in the University Student Judicial Process.
Students’ Right to Petition
Students have the right to petition the School of Nursing regarding School of Nursing Policies. The
petition process is begun by requesting a petition form from the Dean of the School of Nursing. The
form must be signed by the student’s advisor and the Dean of the School of Nursing. A copy of this
form may be found in the Appendix of the BSN Student Handbook. The School of Nursing Admissions,
Progression, and Graduation (APG) Committee is responsible for reviewing and hearing student
petitions. If a student is not satisfied with the decision of the School of Nursing APG Committee, the
student has the right to appeal the decision to the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. A subsequent
appeal may also be made to the Chancellor of USC Aiken. Information regarding the general University
appeal procedures may be found in the current USCA Student Handbook.
Part-Time Schedule
The SON does not offer a part-time option for students except under extenuating circumstances. A
student must have prior approval via a petition to the Admission, Progression and Graduation
Committee: Once approved for a part time schedule nursing courses must be sequenced as follows:
Semester IV:
NURS 312, Pathophysiology in conjunction with NURS 307, Health assessment, must be the first courses
taken.
NURS 201, Fundamental Skills in Nursing, in conjunction with NURS 202W, Theoretical Foundations of
Nursing must be the last courses taken during Semester IV.
Semester V:
NURS 301, Pharmacology, is a pre or co-requisite for NURS 309.
NURS 309, Adult Health Nursing, must be completed before NURS 323, Maternity Nursing.
Semester VI:
NURS 322, Psychiatric Nursing and Adult Health II, must be completed before NURS 324, Child Health
Nursing.
Semester VII:
NURS 315 W, Community Health Nursing, must be completed before NURS 419, Synthesis of Nursing
Care of the Patient with Complex Health Needs.
Semester VIII:
NURS 421W, Leadership & Management, must be taken in the student’s last semester.
30
NURS418, Entry into Practice, is a pre or co-requisite for NURS 421
To successfully complete the program on a part time basis, the student will need close and careful
advisement to sequence all the courses into the required number of semesters. The nursing courses
must be completed within three and a half (3.5) calendar years
Progression and Retention Policies
Students enrolled in the BSN major and admitted to the School of Nursing must abide by the following:
1.
A grade of “C+” (80%) or better is the standard required to pass all nursing courses.
2.
Any time that nursing students incur a second “C” or lower in the same nursing course in the
nursing major requirement they will be dismissed from the School of Nursing. Any time that
nursing students incur two “C”s or lower in different nursing courses of the
nursing
major requirement, they will be dismissed from the School of Nursing. The exception to this
is NURS 418. If a student is not successful in this course, it may be repeated the following
semester.
3.
Grade forgiveness may be requested for one nursing course only (This does not negate
the stipulations in #2. Grade forgiveness will affect overall GPA only).
4.
Any nursing course in which the student does not reach the standard required to pass (C+) in
the major requirements must be retaken at the USCA School of Nursing.
5.
A grade of C or better in any non-nursing prerequisites to other courses is required
before progression to the next course.
6.
A USCA system cumulative GPA of 2.0 must be maintained for continued enrollment in
the baccalaureate program.
7.
NURS 421W is required during the last semester of degree work.
8.
Students must complete all nursing courses in three and a half (3.5) calendar
years after acceptance into the clinical courses.
9.
A nursing major in good standing may have a one-semester absence from clinical/lab courses for
any reason. In the interest of patient safety, following an absence of more than one semester for
any reason from clinical/lab courses, a student must pass the following validation of
competencies prior to the beginning of the re-entry semester: 1) standardized challenge
examination(s); 2) the level medication test where applicable; 3) dosage calculation test; and 4)
a clinical skills competency check-off. Failure to pass all four tests first time before the
beginning of the re-entry semester will result in the student’s being required to repeat their last
semester’s clinical courses
Student records will be monitored for failures / suspensions at the end of each semester by nursing
faculty. Students will be notified of failures and/or suspension from the BSN program.
Testing
31
Medication Calculation Proficiency Testing Policy
A Medication Calculation Proficiency test will be given at each level. A maximum of three attempts
will be given to each student to reach the passing score.
•
Level
•
Levels 5 & 6 a grade of 95% is required to pass.
•
Levels 7 & 8 a grade of 100% is required to pass.
4
a grade of 90% is required to pass.
1.
If a student does not pass the test on the first attempt, the student will not be allowed to
give medications in clinical and must remediate with either the appropriate module in
Calculating Drug Doses or with materials provided by the course faculty.
2.
If a student does not pass the test on the second attempt, the student cannot attend clinical
until the test is passed, must remediate again with the appropriate materials, and must meet
with the course faculty member.
3.
After the 3rd failure the student who has not reached the standard required to pass the course
has the option of withdrawing from the courses or receiving a grade of “F”.
Standardized Testing
Students will be required to take national standardized tests throughout the program. Specific
information about the tests will be included in the appropriate course syllabi.
Graduation Requirements
Intercultural Enrichment (ICE): A total of 16 are required for all students. Students will not
be approved to receive their degree until they have met the ICE requirement. Freshman students will
attend at least 2 ICE events per academic semester Transfer and returning students will be awarded
ICE credits depending on the number of hours transferred. All transfer and returning students will be
required to do a minimum of four.
Writing Intensive (WI): 3 required; at least one in the major. Transfer students: 1 WI for each
30 hours. There are 5 WI courses in the clinical nursing curriculum.
Writing Proficiency Portfolio (WPP): serves to certify each student’s writing proficiency within
the context of general education assessment, and to make all students aware of the necessity for
developing and transferring their writing skills beyond the composition sequence. The WPP consists of
3 papers written by the student using set guidelines. The WPP with the guidelines can be purchased in
the USCA bookstore. Nursing students are required to complete the WPP prior to entering nursing level
VIII. This requirement may also be completed by taking AEGL 201 Writing in the University.
Health
32
Blood borne Pathogen Exposure Policy (Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV)
All exposure incidents in the clinical agencies and the skills laboratory must be reported, investigated,
and documented. When a student incurs a blood borne pathogen exposure incident, it must be reported
immediately by the student to the clinical faculty and/or preceptor. Immediate action must then be
taken. The clinical faculty member and/or preceptor must report the incident to clinical placement
agency officials and ensure that the agency protocol for blood borne pathogens is followed. The clinical
faculty and/or preceptor must notify the Dean of the School of Nursing as soon as possible after
treatment has been started. The clinical faculty member/preceptor must tell the Emergency Department
that the bills will be covered by Workmen’s Compensation at USCA.
Procedure for Injury
•
If skin is punctured by a contaminated sharp, or broken skin or mucous membrane is splashed
with blood or body fluid, immediate personal action is required.
•
Do not delay treatment for any reason.
•
If possible, wash or flush the exposed area with soap and/or water immediately.
•
Be sure to inform medical personnel that the injury is an exposure to blood borne pathogens
and/or
a needle stick.
•
The student must report the exposure to the clinical faculty member and/or preceptor
IMMEDIATELY and then follow the agency protocol for blood borne pathogen exposure.
•
For students working in Satellite Clinics or home health situations, the student must report
the incident to the preceptor and/or faculty as soon as possible, but must go immediately
to the nearest Emergency Department without delay.
•
Once treatment has been received, the clinical faculty member/preceptor and student must
complete the HR documentation and the School of Nursing Event Reporting form. Should the
blood exposure occur on a Friday afternoon, the documentation may wait until Monday
following the exposure.
Adopted 12/2004; Reviewed 6/06; 6/07; 6/08; 10/09; 6/10, 12/14
Prevention of Transmission of HIV/HBV
The School of Nursing, in accordance with the recommendation of the American Association of Colleges
33
of Nursing, has adopted a policy encompassing mandatory vaccination for HBV and education, universal
precautions and other prevention techniques for HIV. The policy conforms to the requirements of local,
state, and federal laws and the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control guidelines for preventing
transmission of HIV/HBV, as well as those of the parent institution and clinical facilities. The policy
recognizes individual rights, equal opportunity, voluntary testing, and confidentiality of test results and
health records. The policy contains procedures for receiving, managing, and counseling those who may
have been exposed to HIV. It states that nursing personnel and nursing students cannot refuse to care for
those with HIV, HBV, or AIDS. For students, faculty, and staff who are HIV positive, reasonable
accommodation will be made by the school to allow continuation of the education or career. The policy
will be reviewed periodically for scientific correctness. All students shall have on file evidence of
attendance at an educational program related to HIV and HBV. Prior to entry into clinical practice,
nursing students must provide an HBV vaccination record; or documented history of HBV infection; or
antibody status (positive titers) showing previous antigen response to HBV. The series of vaccine
consisting of 3 doses over a six-month period will be required at the student’s expense.
Procedures
1. The Curriculum Committee of the BSN program shall coordinate the educational and
curricular aspects of the HIV and HBV program.
2. Clinical faculty are responsible for monitoring the practice of students in the clinical area
and enforcing prudent infection control policies and procedures as defined by the clinical
agency, to include mandatory safe work practices and the use of appropriate protective
equipment.
3. Documentation of HBV vaccination record; or documented history of HBV infection; or
antibody status (positive titers) showing previous antigen response to HBV will be maintained
in each student’s file.
Initial HBV/HIV Training Schedule Students entering NURS 201
Upon admission to the clinical nursing courses, the student is to complete an initial training in Universal
Precautions, Bloodborne Pathogens and establish HBV immunization status. The initial training is
done with students entering NURS 201. Upon completion of the instructional phase, the student
completes a posttest evaluation tool.
Workers’ Compensation: If a student incurs an injury while in clinical, the student must notify the
clinical instructor immediately and depending on the severity of the injury, go to the closest Emergency
Room or designated facility used by USCA for treatment. The designated facility is the Family
Medcenter (two locations 216 Edgefield Ave. and 2678 Whiskey Road). Should a prescription be
needed, the student should go to the Family Pharmacy at 333 Newberry Street NW.
As soon as possible, the student must complete the “Employee Injury Report” and the Clinical
instructor must complete the “Supervisor Report”. These forms may be printed from the HR Forms
web-site at http://hr.sc.edu/hr/forms.htm
The forms are listed under “Workers’ Compensation” (listed in alphabetical order).
The forms must be submitted to the Human Resources Office as soon as possible. The employee should
notify the Medical Center and the Pharmacy that their injury is a result of an on-the-job injury so claims
will be filed properly as a workers comp claim. Additionally, after any type of incident or accident, the
34
USCA School of Nursing Event Reporting form must be completed and submitted to the nursing office.
The Event Reporting form may be found in the appendix of this handbook.
Pregnancy
Pregnant students must present a physician’s or nurse midwife’s statement to the clinical course
coordinator that they are able to attend clinicals as soon as the pregnancy is confirmed and at the
beginning of every semester thereafter. Following delivery, a statement from the physician or nurse
midwife is necessary before returning to class and clinical.
If a student suspects that she is pregnant, she must:
1.notify her clinical course coordinator
2. immediately make an appointment with her OB provider for the earliest available appointment
3.sign an acknowledgement of her personal responsibility and waiver of SON responsibility. This
acknowledgement/waiver statement will be valid only until the student honors the OB provider
appointment (usually within two weeks) and brings the required OB provider statement of approval
for participation in clinical activity.
Because of changing health needs and potential restrictions on activities during pregnancy, the
following policy will apply to pregnant students.
The student will:
1. Inform the professor as soon as possible regarding pregnancy and the estimated date
of confinement.
2. Submit to the faculty a statement from the physician or nurse midwife at the
following times verifying that the student is in satisfactory physical condition to
attend class and clinical laboratory.
a) When the pregnancy is confirmed
b) At the beginning of every semester
c) After delivery prior to returning to class/clinical
3. Pregnant students are encouraged to attend as classes and clinical experiences. The
clinical portion of the class will be handled on an individual basis. However, it must
be noted that according to the Clinical Absence Policy, “If a student has been
absent from clinical on more than one occasion, it may not be possible for the
student to make up the clinical experience. In this even, the student may
receive a grade of “I” (Incomplete) or “F” and will not progress to the next
level.”
4. The faculty reserves the right to make the decision regarding attendance in class
and clinical.
35
Forms available in Appendices
Revised 6/06; Reviewed 6/07; Revised 1/08; 6/09; 6/10; 12/14
Professional Expectations
Behavioral Contracts
In the event that a student exhibits behavior that is unprofessional, disrupts the classroom and/or clinical,
or is deemed by the Faculty and Dean to put the student in jeopardy of course(s) failure, the student will
be placed under a behavioral contract. The terms of the contract will vary according to the aberrant
behavior being demonstrated by the student. The duration of the contract may be for one semester or for
the remainder of the student’s tenure at the USCA School of Nursing.
Classroom Behavior
As per the USCA Student Handbook, it is the instructor’s right to remove from the classroom any
student who disrupts or disturbs the proceeding of the class. In extreme cases, the faculty member
also has the right to request assistance from campus security. If the student who has been ejected
causes similar disturbances in subsequent meetings of the class, he/she may be denied admittance to
the class for the remainder of the semester and assigned a grade of “F”.
Professional Ethics Policy
Information regarding patients and their personal lives is confidential. Discussion of the patient and
confidential information should be limited to those persons directly responsible for that particular patient.
Paperwork discussing clients should not contain names or other information that will identify the patient.
Failure to uphold the confidentiality of a patient constitutes a critical incident which will result in
failure of the course.
ELECTRONIC DEVICES:
• Audio taping of class is by permission of the course faculty only
• Head phones and media player for white noise are NOT permissible during testing sessions except
when mandated by disability services (See Disability Policy above).
• Videotaping or still photography by students is not permitted at any time. This includes
classroom and clinical settings.
• Student must turn off all electronic devices during clinical and class instruction. It is
unacceptable to receive or send voice calls or text messages during these times or use a device for
an internet search. The nursing office telephone number (803-641-3277) and clinical faculty cell
phones can be used as emergency contact numbers while the student is in clinical or class.
Requests for exceptions to keep cell phones on vibrate may be made at the discretion of the course
coordinator on a day to day basis. During a known personal crisis, it is the student’s responsibility
to inform the faculty to be aware of potential emergency contact. If internet searching or
messaging activity occurs during class or clinical time, the instructor may confiscate the equipment
and the student will be placed under contract.
• Failure to comply with the above instructions may result in failure of the course.
•
The USCA School of Nursing will follow the guidelines from the National Council of State
Boards of Nursing regarding the use of social media.
Requirements for Application for Licensure in Nursing
36
Prior to completion of the last semester of study, students are expected to apply for the nursing licensing
examination, NCLEX-RN, and apply for licensure to the South Carolina State Board for Nursing of
other Board of Nursing in the jurisdiction where the student will be employed after graduation.
Conviction of a crime other than a minor traffic violation could result in ineligibility for nursing
licensure. Under these circumstances, early notification of the appropriate state board of nursing is
recommended in order to clarify mechanisms related to determining eligibility. This policy is detailed in
the Appendix of this BSN Student Handbook.
As of May 2009, Criminal records checks will be required for licensure; dismissed prosecution for
writing a dishonored check is not an act of moral turpitude.
SECTION 1.
Chapter 33, Title 40 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:
"Section 40-33-25. (A) In addition to other requirements established by law and for the
purpose of determining an applicant's eligibility for licensure to practice nursing, the
department may require a state criminal records check, supported by fingerprints, by the South
Carolina Law Enforcement Division, and a national criminal records check, supported by
fingerprints, by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The results of these criminal records checks
must be reported to the department. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is authorized to
retain the fingerprints for certification purposes and for notification of the department regarding
criminal charges. Costs of conducting a criminal history background check must be borne by the
applicant. The department
shall keep information received pursuant to this section confidential, except that information relied upon
in denying licensure may be disclosed as may be necessary to support the administrative action.
SON Support Services & Organizations
Student Representation on Committees
Each standing committee of the School of Nursing, except those so designated, shall include student
members. Student members shall have voting privileges unless otherwise designated in these rules.
Student representatives shall be selected by their peers through an election process. Each student
nominates candidates for committee membership and subsequently votes on nominated candidates.
Elections are held each fall semester. The School of Nursing Dean or designees coordinate the
elections.
The following criteria will pertain to all student committee members:
1. Term of membership shall be one year. The student may be reelected
for a second term.
2. A student may not serve on more than one committee concurrently.
3. In the event that confidential student information is to be discussed, the student
committee member will be excused for that portion of the meeting.
If student members are not elected by October 1 of any year, the Chair of the standing
committee will appoint members who meet the above criteria.
37
Adopted by Nursing Faculty 8-19-87
Revised and approved 5-11-90 Revised 8-95;Revised 12-13-96; Revised 7-13-99; 6-16-2000; Revised
928-01; Revised 7-31-02; Revised 7-1-03 Revised 5-31-04; Revised 4/26/04; Revised 6/28/05; Revised 6/06;
Reviewed 6/07; 6/08; 6/08; 6/09; 6/10 Reviewed and Revised 6/12; Reviewed and Revised 8/13, 12/14
Pi Lambda Chapter
Sigma Theta Tau
International
Excellence in Leadership, Scholarship, and Service
Award
Information Sheet and Criteria
The mission of Sigma Theta Tau International, the Honor Society of Nursing, is to support the learning, knowledge, and
professional development of nurses committed to make a difference in health worldwide.
Pi Lambda Chapter of STTI at the University of South Carolina Aiken embraces this mission. The chapter wishes
to acknowledge and embrace new members of the chapter who have exhibited leadership, scholarship, and service
to the organization, the profession, and the community.
In February 2008, Pi Lambda Chapter voted to give a monetary award of $100 to an outstanding new member of Pi
Lambda. The recipient of this award will be from the graduating class. The recipient will be recognized at the School of
Nursing Pinning ceremony each semester. The Spring semester recipient will also be recognized at the University’s
Convocation ceremony.
The following are the criteria which must be met in order for an individual to be considered for the Pi Lambda Excellence in
Leadership, Scholarship, and Service Award.
∗
∗
∗
The applicant shall be an inducted and current member Pi Lambda chapter.
The applicant shall submit a completed application.
The applicant shall ask for a letter of support from a current member of Pi Lambda chapter.
∗
The supporting member shall submit the letter of support/recommendation to the Awards Chair.
Both the application and the support letter will be considered when determining the recipient for this award.
Completed Application and Letter of Support
(date to be announced each semester)
Applications and letters of support can be sent to:
Chair of Research and Awards,
38
Pi Lambda Chapter, STTI
Excellence in Leadership, Scholarship, and Service Award
Application
To be completed by applicant
Applicant’s Name: ______________________________________________ Date: _____________
Email Address: ____________________________________________
Current GPA: ___________________
*Supporter’s Name: ___________________________________________
1) Please list any leadership, scholarship, and/or service participation with Pi Lambda Chapter:
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
2) Please list any leadership, scholarship, and/or service participation with USCA School of Nursing
(SNA,
Mentorship program, SNAC and/or other:
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
3) Please list any leadership, scholarship, and/or service participation with the University of South
Carolina Aiken:
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_____
4) Please list any additional outside leadership, scholarship, and/or service participation within your
local, regional, or national community not previously mentioned:
______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
____
39
5)
Please describe in your own words why membership in Pi Lambda is important to you:
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
6) Please describe your future plans for nursing practice and professionalism:
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_____
*Letter of support mailed/emailed directly to Awards Chair.
40
Student Awards and Criteria
USCA School of Nursing Clinical Excellence Awards
Purpose
The purpose of the clinical excellence awards is to recognize students whose clinical performance is
outstanding. Awards for clinical excellence will be given in the following nursing specialty areas:
Adult Health Nursing, Maternity Nursing, Child Health Nursing, Community Health Nursing, and
Psychiatric Nursing. An award for overall clinical excellence will be presented to a graduating senior
chosen from among all recipients of specialty clinical excellence awards in the graduating class.
Background
Nursing is both an art and a science. Therefore, nursing practice requires a blend of the most current
knowledge with an insightful and humane approach to client care (Potter & Perry, p. 9). Excellent
nursing practice is also a reflection of ethical standards (Potter & Perry, p. 225).
The Essentials of Baccalaureate Education for Professional Nursing Practice (2008) describe nine
essentials which are fundamental to baccalaureate nursing education. The Essentials note that
“integration of knowledge and skills is critical to practice. … The baccalaureate graduate demonstrates
clinical reasoning within the context of patient-centered care to form the basis for nursing practice that
reflects ethical values.” (AACN email, October 30, 2008).
Clinical Nursing Specialty courses are:
Adult Health (ANRS 309, 310)
Community Health (ANRS
315) Maternity (ANRS 323)
Child Health (ANRS 324)
Mental Health/Psychiatric (ANRS 322).
Process
A.) Criteria for identifying the clinically excellent student were developed by the Student Support
Committee and given to course coordinators and faculty. Each course coordinator may add to the criteria
to define clinical excellence in his or her course. Additions to the criteria shall be kept on file by the
Student Support Committee's Awards Chairperson.
B.) Each semester course coordinators will select award recipients and submit their names to the SON
Administrative Specialist. The SON Administrative Specialist will keep the names of all specialty award
recipients on file. There is no obligation to present the award each semester if a course coordinator judges that
no particular student in the class displayed excellence in the clinical setting.
C.) Clinical Excellence Award recipients from Level V, VI, and VII nursing specialty courses will be announced
at the end of each semester at the End-of-Semester Student Recognition Celebration (the last SNA meeting of
each semester) and receive a certificate.
D.) Each semester, faculty will choose the graduating senior who will receive the USCA SON Overall
Clinical Excellence Award. Candidates will be those seniors who have received at least one Specialty Clinical
Excellence Award during the program of study. The award recipient will be announced at Pinning Ceremony
and receive a plaque and a monetary award (if available).
41
E.) The Fall and Spring Clinical Excellence awardees and the USCA SON Overall Clinical Excellence Award
recipients will also be recognized annually at the USCA Convocation Awards Ceremony in the Spring.
Selection Criteria
Criteria include clinical and professional nursing behaviors.
Note: Any student with a critical incident violation is ineligible for Clinical Excellence Awards.
i. The student shall consistently demonstrate clinical excellence by:
• Role modeling clinical excellence to classmates, e.g, thorough preparation for clinical assignments.
• Demonstrating exemplary organizational and time management skills.
• Implementing the nursing process using critical thinking, sound judgment, and creativity (assessment,
problem identification and nursing diagnosis, planning and implementing nursing care, and
evaluation
of client goals/outcomes)
• Incorporating evidence based practice, clinical practice guidelines, and/or facility protocols into
patient
care and interactions with others.
ii. The student shall consistently demonstrate professional nursing behavior by:
• Providing family/patient-centered care while maintaining regard for cultural considerations and
diversity.
• Communicating effectively with faculty and peers.
• Functioning as a team member.
• Collaborating with other members of the health care team.
• Presenting self professionally in regards to dress, appearance, and demeanor.
b. Course specific additions (optional)
Faculty Process
a. Clinical faculty will discuss potential nominees with course coordinator each semester.
b. Course coordinator will submit a written nomination describing the nominee’s clinical excellence
criteria.
c. All nominations will be submitted to the SON Administrative Specialist, currently Mrs. Karen
Morgan.
d. The names of Clinical Excellence nominees will be reviewed by the Dean or the Dean’s authorized
representative for critical incidents.
e. Part-time and off-track students shall be eligible for awards in any clinical course in which they are
enrolled.
Rev. 11/06/09; 03/21/10; 8/16/10; 9/16/10 and approve. Reviewed 12/14
42
USCA School of Nursing
Clinical Excellence Awards
Nomination Form
Semester:
Year:
Clinical Specialty Area:
Student Name:
Student has had a critical incident violation
Course name/number:
yes
no
1. Clinical Excellence evidenced by:
2. Professional Nursing Behaviors evidenced by:
3. Course Specific Additions (if any):
______________________________________________________________________________________________________
Nominating Faculty Signature
Date
Jmcd 9/09; 11/09; 3/10; 8/10
43
Scholarships
Nursing Scholarships
(All scholarships are for full-time clinical students unless otherwise noted)
Students may apply each spring semester. Deadline is February 1. Form is available on the SON
website and submitted electronically. web.usca.edu/nursing/ (Resources/online applications).
Scholarship information was updated 8/13
Aiken County Medical Alliance Scholarship
Nursing major; GPA of 3.0 or greater; Must have documented financial need
Aiken Mid-Day Lions Club Scholarship Fund
A full-time junior or a senior student in the school of Nursing with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Receipient
must
be a legal resident of the United States.
Air 1st Aviation Companies Nursing Scholarship
Nursing major
Almena Preacher Woodward Scholarship In Nursing
Nursing major; Preference to student who participates in campus & community activities; Incoming
student with predicted GPA of 2.5 or greater or continuing student with cumulative GPA of 2.5 or
greater
Anna Jo Przybysz Memorial Nursing Scholarship
Nursing major; Making consistent progress toward BSN degree; College GPA of 3.0 or greater;
Recommendation from School of Nursing
Bertie Shellhouse Taylor Endowed Scholarship
Preference to Nursing major; Cumulative GPA of 3.5 or greater; Must demonstrate character and
integrity
Dawn Bee McFadden Plumley Memorial Scholarship in Nursing
Nursing major; Rising Junior or Senior; Preference to cumulative 3.0 GPA or greater; Preference to
students who plan to work in hospitals in Aiken County
Dewey Smith Petticrew Memorial Scholarship in Nursing
Nursing major; Junior or Senior; Cumulative 2.5 GPR or greater; Shall be student with demonstrated
financial need
Dr. Maggie Thurmond Dorsey Nursing Recruitment Scholarship
Nursing major; To be awarded in furtherance of the diversity mission and to enhance the multi-cultural
diversity of the student population with particular attention to underrepresented student populations;
Recommendation of Nursing faculty
Dr. Samuel Zwerling Memorial Nursing Scholarship
Nursing major; Sophomore; 3.0 GPA or greater; Demonstrated financial need; Recommendation from
Nursing Faculty Scholarship Committee
Elita Hyde Woolsey Memorial Scholarship in Nursing
Nursing major; Freshman; Chancellor's scholarship criteria; If funds exceed full tuition, a 2nd
scholarship
will be awarded to a Sophomore, Junior or Senior Nursing major with 2.5 GPA or greater;
Recommendation from Nursing Faculty Scholarship Committee
Elizabeth Ann Hutchins Scholarship in Professional Nursing
Nursing major; 3.0 GPA or greater; Preference to demonstrated financial need; Recommendation from
School of Nursing scholarship committee
The Harry and Hilare Inder Nursing Scholarship Endowment Fund
Awarded to a full-time, degree-seeking USC Aiken student in the School of Nursing. Scholarship is
renewable if the student maintains a grade point average of 3.0 or higher.
44
Hettie M. Pickett Memorial Scholarship for Nursing
Nursing major; Sophomore, Junior or Senior; Cumulative 2.5 GPA or greater; Preference to financial
need;
Recommendation of Nursing Faculty Scholarship Committee
Hospital Auxiliary of Aiken County Nursing Scholarship
Nursing major; 2.5 GPA or greater; Aiken County resident; Enrolled in last year of Nursing program
James Maldon & Lucile Suther Sprawls Memorial Nursing Scholarship
Nursing major; Preference to Aiken County resident; Practicing nurse re-entering academia for BSN;
Consideration should also be given to previous recipient if still in need of financial
assistance; Recommendation of Nursing Faculty Scholarship Committee
Jeannine M. Rich Memorial Scholarship
Nursing major; 2.75 GPA or greater
Jill S. Miller Nursing Scholarship
Nursing Major; Advanced student with expressed interest or experience and intention of working in
Oncology; Rising Junior or Senior; Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or greater
Josephine Armstrong Phillips Memorial Nursing Scholarship
Nursing major; Married student; GPA of 3.0 or greater; Preference to residents of Allendale, Hampton,
and
Barnwell counties; Recommendation from School of Nursing
Kathleen Marston Endowed Scholarship in Nursing Fund
The scholarship(s) will be awarded by the USC Aiken Honors, Awards, and Scholarships Committee or
its
designee(s) to full-time, degree-seekiong student(s) in Nursing. Preference shall be given to
recipient(s) that have financial need. Recommendation will be made by the USC Aiken School of
Nursing Faculty This schiolarship is renewable if the student(s) continues to meet the criteria.
Lee Roy and Nan Blake Hallman Memorial Scholarship in Nursing
Nursing major; Sophomore, Junior or Senior; Cumulative 2.5 GPR or greater; Recommendation of
Nursing
Faculty Scholarship Committee; Committee will also decide how many scholarships to offer based on
available income
Leroy Rutland Memorial Scholarship
Nursing major; Must be actively involved in community service as determined by School of Nursing
faculty; Preference to demonstrated financial need; Recommendation of Dean of School of Nursing
Lila K. Joyner Memorial Nursing Scholarship
Nursing major; Sophomore, Junior or Senior; GPA of 3.0 or greater; Recommendation from School of
Nursing
Linda W. Johnston Nursing Scholarship
Nursing major; Active member of USCA Student Nurses Association; GPA consistent with progression
in
Nursing program; Completed or enrolled in at least one semester of BSN clinical coursework
Lois Jean McFadden Hunter Endowed Nursing Scholarship Fund
Nursing major who is a rising Junior or Senior with a demonstrated drive for excellence;
Recommendations will be made by the Dean of the School of Nursing
Louise Boatwright/Hospital Auxiliary of Aiken County Nursing Scholarship
Nursing major; 2.5 GPA or greater; Aiken County resident; Enrolled in last year of Nursing Program
Martha Suhrer/Hospital Auxiliary of Aiken County Nursing Scholarship
Nursing major; 2.5 GPA or greater; Aiken County resident; Enrolled in last year of Nursing program
Mary P. Harrington Scholarship in Nursing
45
Nursing major; Preference to single parent w/dependent children; Priority to financial need over
academic
standing; Recommendation of School of Nursing scholarship committee; If no qualified applicants,
award to deserving Nursing student w/financial need
Maureen E. Gruel Endowed Scholarship in Nursing
Nursing major; Demonstrated financial need; South Carolina resident; GPA of 3.0 or greater;
Recommendation from School of Nursing; Must be awarded to a different student each year
Phyllis Woodzell/Hospital Auxiliary of Aiken County Nursing Scholarship
Nursing major; 2.5 GPA or greater; Aiken County resident; Enrolled in last year of Nursing program
Richard & Mitzi Herold School of Nursing Scholarship
Nursing major; Freshman with University predicted GPA of 2.75 or greater or Sophomore, Junior or
Senior
with 2.75 GPA or greater; May consider financial need and campus & community involvement
USCA School of Nursing Scholarship
Nursing major; You must enroll full-time each semester in your program of study.
USCA Student Nurses Association (SNA) Scholarship
Nursing major; Cumulative 2.75 GPR or greater; Must have successfully completed ANRS201 or its
equivalent; Active member of the USCA Students Nurses Association; Recommendation of
Nursing Faculty Scholarship Committee. You must enroll full-time each semester in your program
of study. Zoe Jones Hatcher Memorial Scholarship Fund
Nursing major; Continuing student with GPA of 2.75 or greater; Preference to non-traditional female
(preferably over 35) with financial need: Recommendation of School of Nursing faculty. You must
enroll full-time each semester in your program of study.
Outstanding Student Nurses’ Association (SNA) Student Award
This award is presented to a graduating senior student who, as an official member of USCA-SNA and
the National Student Nurses’ Association (NSNA), has demonstrated the following:
• Outstanding transformational leadership qualities
• Outstanding service to the USCA and general community through SNA activities/projects
• Exceptional responsibility and reliability in SNA activities/project
SNA By-Laws are in the Appendix
USCA School of Nursing Student Nurses Advisory Council (SNAC)
•
The purpose of the USCA School of Nursing Student Nurse Advisory Council is to:
o advocate for all nursing students.
o encourage good fellowship among students.
o create a sense of unity and facilitate communication between faculty, staff, students and
the USCA Student Government Association.
o identify student concerns and act as representative of those concerns, actively
implement change in areas of student concern.
o inform students of current events, upcoming issues, and potential problems.
•
Membership is automatic on acceptance to the USCA School of Nursing and is free of cost.
•
An election of officers is held annually.
•
Two School of Nursing faculty members serve as advisors. Check with current bylaws
.
The current bylaws for SNAC are located in the appendix to this handbook.
46
South Carolina Student Nurses Association (SNA)
The faculty of the School of Nursing strongly encourages each student, to join the National Students
Nurses Association (NSNA) which includes membership in the South Carolina Student Nurses
Association (SCSNA). The USCA SNA chapter of SCSNA is the professional student organization
and provides participation in health-related activities on campus and in the community. USCA has an
active, growing chapter, and all students are expected to join. NSNA members have the opportunity to
expand their professional horizons, develop patterns of professional behavior, qualify for scholarships
and competitions, and develop strong friendships with fellow members. USCA SNA Meetings are held
monthly. Meeting dates, times and place(s) will be posted on the SNA Bulletin Board and the rolling
monitor in the nursing building lobby.
Technology
Computer Literacy in Nursing
The School of nursing requires that all entering students be computer literate. Students must check and
respond to emails on a daily basis and be able to work online to accomplish individual and group
assignments. They are also required to take standardized tests online each semester. Specific Training
will be provided for students who have clinical assignments in hospitals that require online
documentation.
Personal Internet Networking Sites
Please be advised that employers may check the internet for applicant internet networking sites. You
are accountable for your postings. Postings that violate HIPPA regulations and therefore deemed
improper by clinical agencies and/or employers may result in your dismissal from clinical and/or not
receiving an offer of a position before or after graduation.
University Student Services
Academic Success Center
The Academic Success Center encourages the academic success of USC Aiken students by assisting
them
in developing educational plans, connecting them to campus resources, and promoting engaged
learning and personal responsibility. Below are descriptions of some of the services in the
department. The Academic Success Center is located in Penland, Room 108. More detailed
information about these services, a full list of the free programs in the department, and other
academic resources can be accessed online at web.usca.edu/asc/ and at 803-641-3297.
Academic Consultations
The Academic Success Center offers academic consultations designed to assist students at any level.
Students work one-on-one with professional staff members to improve time management, study skills,
organizational skills and other academic skills. Students can schedule an appointment using the
“Appointment Request” form on the website. The Academic Success Center is located in Penland, Room
108; online at web.usca.edu/asc/ and at 803-641-3297.
47
Career Services
This office is dedicated to assisting USCA students with career-related issues, such as selecting a
major, choosing a career, experiential learning and job searches. Many services available through this
office, including staff assistance and computer support. The office is located in the Penland
Administration Building room 107 or call 641-3440; online at web.usca.edu/career-services/ Further
information regarding Career Services may be found in the 2013-2014 Undergraduate and Graduate
Programs Bulletin
Counseling Center
The Counseling Center’s mission is to support students in their individual development by maximizing
their problem-solving and decision-making skills in order to facilitate constructive choices in
accomplishing their academic and personal goals. In conjunction with this mission, the Counseling
Center interacts with the University community to ensure a college environment that is as beneficial as
possible to the overall wellbeing of students, thereby empowering them to meet their fullest potential.
The Counseling Center provides counseling services for USC Aiken undergraduate and graduate
students. Services are free and confidential, unless the individual student specifically requests that
information be revealed to a particular entity or the student poses a potential danger to himself/herself
or others. The services offer an holistic, developmental and short-term approach to assessing,
consulting, individual counseling, group counseling, psycho-education, and training which enhances
students’ lives. Counselors are available by calling the Counseling Center at (803) 641-3609 for an
appointment. Information on additional services is available in the Counseling Center, Business and
Education Building, Room 126, or at the following web site: web.usca.edu/cc/.
Disability Services
The mission of Disability Services is to facilitate the transition of students with disabilities to the
University environment and act to provide appropriate accommodations for each student’s special needs
in order to ensure equal access to all programs, activities and services at USCA.
Disability Services may be reached at (803) 641-3609 and is located in the Business and Education
Building, Room 126-A. The Disability Services website is web.usca.edu/ds/index.dot
Early Warning
The Early Warning process is a mechanism to alert students to specific behaviors and academic issues
that
may affect their academic performance. USCA faculty and teaching staff are encouraged to submit
Early Warning Forms. When an Early Warning Form is received, the student and the student’s
advisor are informed. Students who receive Early Warning letters are encouraged to meet with their
advisor and professor for the course in which the Early Warning was received.
Math Lab
The mission of the Math Lab is to provide support for students enrolled in mathematics courses at
USCA,
and ultimately enable students to be successful in classes that use mathematics. This is accomplished by
providing students with free peer tutoring in any freshman level and selected sophomore level
mathematics classes. The Math Lab is located in Penland, Room 221; online at
web.usca.edu/asc/tutoring/MathLab.dot
Tutoring
Tutoring is available in a number of content areas and courses. All USCA tutors are identified through
faculty references, and tutoring is free for enrolled USCA students. To access a list of tutors available
for the current semester, visit the Academic Success Center website. Additionally, if students need
assistance in a course that is not included in the list, they can complete a “Tutor Request” form on the
website: web.usca.edu/asc/tutoring/
48
Writing Room
The mission of the Writing Room is to provide an open teaching and learning environment for the
collaborative discussion of writing so that students may become more aware and independent writers.
Writing consultants come from a range of disciplines and are formally trained to provide feedback
during all phases of the writing process. The Writing Room is located in H&SS, Room 112 or online at
web.usca.edu/asc/tutoring/writing-room.dot
APPENDICES
49
University of South Carolina-Aiken
School of Nursing
Ability Statement*
With reasonable accommodation, the student should be able to:
1. Read, write, speak, and comprehend English with sufficient skill in order to communicate. Student
must have the ability to understand meanings of words and ideas and use them effectively.
2. Reason and make judgments.
3. Perform locomotor skills and dexterity skills as required within the health care system. The ability to
coordinate eyes and hands rapidly and accurately is essential.
4. Perceive pertinent details and objects.
5. Hear a variety of sounds, which might be a part of client assessments.
6. Perceive via tactile acuity changes in the client's condition.
7. Discriminate color changes in the client's skin, mucous membranes, hair, etc.
8. Work effectively with the health care environment without obstructing or hampering the
work of the health care team.
I have read the above requirements and will have no problem meeting the requirements and I need no
additional assistance.
agree
disagree
If you need assistance, please contact the Office of Disability Services for verification and appropriate
accommodations.
Print Name
Student Signature
Faculty Signature
Date:
Date
Date
Students sign this form at the beginning the first clinical course.
*Revised 5/97; 6/00; 7/02, 6/04, 6/05, /06.
Reviewed 6/07; 6/08; 6/09; 6/10, 12/14
Students sign this form at the beginning the first clinical course.
50
University of South Carolina Aiken
School of Nursing
Consent to Release Background Check and Drug Screen Results
I, ____________________________________________, hereby give permission to the
Print Name
University of South Carolina Aiken School of Nursing to release results of the Background Check
and Drug Screen to clinical facilities required by law to have this information.
Student Signature: __________________________________ Date: ______________
University of South Carolina Aiken
School of Nursing
Student Release Form*
I hereby release the School of Nursing and the University of South Carolina Aiken from
responsibility for any injury or illness to me (and if pregnant, my baby) while attending a hospital
or other clinical experience. I understand that risks do exist for me (and if pregnant, my unborn
baby) while practicing nursing in the clinical setting and I do assume all risks involved.
Print Name__________________________________________Date:_________________
Student Signature_____________________________________Date:_________________
*Students sign this form prior to beginning first clinical course
Revised 8/01; Revised 6/05; Revised 6/06; Reviewed 6/07; Reviewed 6/08; 6/09; 6/10; 4/16
51
STUDENT NURSES’ ASSOCIATION (SNA)
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA AIKEN (USCA)
ARTICLE I:
Name
Section 1:
The name of this organization shall be Omicron Theta Alpha
(OTA) (Together, Healing, Humanity) here after known as USCA-SNA
Section 2:
USCA-SNA
417 University Parkway
Aiken, South Carolina 29801
ARTICLE II:
Section 1:
Purposes and Function
Purpose of the Omicron Theta Alpha Association (USCA-SNA) shall be:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Section 2:
To assume responsibility for contributing to nursing education in order to provide for
the highest quality health care;
To provide programs representative of fundamental and current
professional interests and concerns;
To aid in the development of the whole person, his/her professional role and
responsibility for the health care of people in all walks of life;
To provide a closer bond and promote better communication between students and faculty; among nursing
students; between students, the community, and related health organizations;
To aid in the development of the student by fostering good citizenship, and by providing opportunities for
professional and nonprofessional guest speakers to discuss topics relating to nursing and civic affairs.
Functions:
a.
To have direct input into standards of nursing education and influence the
educational process;
b.
To influence health care, nursing education and practice through legislative activities as appropriate;
c.
To promote and encourage participation in community events related to health care;
d.
To represent nursing students to the consumer, to institutions, and to other organizations;
e.
To promote and encourage students’ participation in interdisciplinary activities pertaining to USCA;
f.
g.
To promote and encourage recruitment efforts, participation in student activities, and educational
opportunities regardless of person’s race, color, creed, sex, lifestyle, national origin, age, or economic
statue;
To promote and encourage collaborative relationships with nursing and related health organizations.
52
ARTICLE III:
Section 1:
Members
Categories of Constituent Membership
Members of the constituent associations shall be:
a.
b.
The USCA-SNA board shall be composed of at least 10 members.
For initial recognition as a National Student Nurses’ Association (NSNA) constituent associations shall be
required to submit their by-laws which shall include the following areas of conformity for active and
associate members: purpose and function, membership, dues and representation. Subsequently,
constituents shall be required to reaffirm the areas of conformity annually.
1. Active members:
(a)
Students enrolled in state approved programs leading to licensure as a registered
nurse.
(b)
Registered nurses enrolled in undergraduate programs leading to a baccalaureate
degree with a major in nursing.
(c) Active members shall have all the privileges of membership.
2. Associate members:
(a)
Prenursing students, including registered nurses, enrolled in college or university
programs designed as preparation for entrance into an undergraduate program leading
to an associate degree, diploma, or baccalaureate degree in nursing.
(b)
Associate members shall have all the privileges of membership except the right to
hold office.
c.
Membership in USCA-SNA:
1. Active members constitute students accepted into upper level nursing courses.
2. Associate members constitute prenursing students.
Section 2:
Active membership may be extended six months beyond completion of a
student’s program in nursing.
Section 3:
Dues
The dues year shall be a period of 12 consecutive months:
a. Board members must be members of NSNA and SNASC, and membership pay dues to
accordingly. Members of USCA-SNA shall pay dues accordingly to USCA-SNA.
b. NSNA and SNASC dues shall be payable directly to NSNA. NSNA shall remit to each
state constituent the dues received on behalf of the constituent. USCA-SNA dues
shall be payable directly to the USCA-SNA chapter. Dues for USCA-SNA shall be paid
admission into the USCA School of Nursing. The dues shall consist of a one time
$10 fee.
c.
ARTICLE IV:
Section 1:
them
upon
Any member who fails to pay current dues shall forfeit all privileges of membership.
Board of Officers and Directors
The Board of Officers of the USCA-SNA shall consist of a president, a president-elect, a
vice- president, a secretary, a treasurer, a legislative director, a fund-raising director, a community service
director, a break- through-to-nursing director, a scrapbook director, a newsletter and publicity director, and
two representatives from each class level of the generic B.S.N. track. The advisor(s) shall serve as ex-officio
member(s) without a vote.
53
Section 2:
Function of the Board of Officers and Directors is to:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
Coordinate the work of all committee chairmen;
Plan the business of each meeting;
Approve expenditures of money relating to the organizations operation;
Approve activities of the committees;
Fill vacancies in any office except the office of president or vice-president;
Approve the president’s appointments of Ad Hoc committees and chairmen.
Section 3:
Meetings of the Board of Officers and Directors:
The Board of Officers and Directors shall meet at the regular monthly
USCA-SNA meetings and at any special time when called by the president of the
organization.
Section 4:
Eligibility:
a.
b.
Section 5:
Only members who shall be nursing students throughout the full term of office may serve on the Board of
Officers and Directors. Exceptions to this must have approval from the president and advisor(s).
Only members who maintain active membership in NSNA and SNASC may serve on the Board of Officers
and Directors, excluding the class representatives.
Term of Office:
The term of office shall be one year from the adjournment of the annual meeting at
which officers are elected to the adjournment of the annual meeting at which their
successors are elected.
Section 6:
Voting of Officers:
All elected Board of Officers of the organization and the class representatives shall
have one vote each in the board decisions. The advisor shall not vote. A quorum for
the board meetings shall be a majority of the voting members present.
Section 7:
Duties of Officers:
a.
The president shall:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
b.
c.
preside at all regular and called meetings of the organization and all board meetings.
appoint any special Ad Hoc committees necessary, subject to the approval of the board of officers.
serve as ex-officio member of all committees except the nominating committee.
appoint chairman of all Ad Hoc committees with the approval of the board of officers.
represent USCA-SNA in matters relating to the association and perform all other duties pertaining
to the office.
maintain/update, with the advisor, the SNA board and SNA member lists.
serve as USCA-SNA’s representative to the SNASC Board of Directors.
The president-elect shall:
1.
2.
Perform duties as designated by the president/advisor(s).
Transition into the role of president upon completion of term and the president leaving office.
The vice-president shall:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
assume the duties of the president in her absence, disability or vacancy.
act in any advisory capacity to all committees
be responsible for program of meetings of the association
review and recommend changes in the by-laws.
chair the committee for the yearly fundraiser for nursing scholarships.
perform all duties as assigned by the president.
54
d.
The secretary shall:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
prepare and distribute the minutes of all business meetings of the
association and Board of Officers.
inform NSNA and the state association of all current programs and activities
keep on file as permanent record all reports, papers, and documents
submitted to the recording secretary.
perform all other duties assigned by the president or as usual to this office.
provide a list of all officers addresses, telephone numbers, and emails to
each board member, to the secretary of SNASC, and to NSNA.
keep a register of all members for roll call and business purposes.
submit updated copy of by-laws to SNASC.
e.
The treasurer shall be the lead Faculty Advisor
f.
The legislative director shall:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
g.
h.
j.
1.
2.
3.
4.
serve as chairperson of the Legislative Committee
serve as chairperson of the Elections Committee
serve as co-chairperson of the Bylaws Committee
serve as chairperson of the Committee on Resolutions
serve as chairperson of the Fundraising Committee
keep complete records of all income and expenditures from fund-raising projects
submit to the treasurer all funds raised within one week after each event.
co-chair the committee for the yearly fundraiser for nursing scholarships.
The community service director shall:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
promote and plan community health activities
serve as chairperson of the Community Service Committee
keep records with signatures of those members participating in community activities.
submit activity records to the faculty adviser for signature.
submit copies of all activity records to the SNASC Community Service Director at the end of each
calendar year.
submit copies of the activity records to USCA Student Life & Services office by Spring Break of
each year (usually in March).
The break-through-to-nursing director shall:
1.
2.
3.
serve as chairperson of the Break-through-to-Nursing Committee
encourage recruitment of minority groups into nursing.
encourage recruitment and retention of membership in NSNA and USCA-SNA including sustaining
members.
The scrapbook director shall:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
k.
serve as the USCA-SNA liaison to the SNASC legislative committee
The fund-raiser director shall:
6.
i.
promote political awareness among nursing students and plan legislative
activities on a campus level.
serve as chairperson of the Scrapbook Committee
submit to the treasurer receipts for film, film developing, and materials for a scrapbook for the
budgeted funds for the committee.
compile a scrapbook of all events pertaining to USCA-SNA on a yearly basis.
submit the yearly scrapbook to SNASC at the SNASC Convention.
maintain/update yearly the SNA link on the USCA School of Nursing website.
The newsletter and publicity director shall:
55
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
l.
serve as chairperson of the Newsletter and Publicity Committee
submit to the treasurer receipts for any materials and printing for publicity/newspaper for
reimbursement
maintain/decorate the SNA Bulletin Board in the SON Food Court with up-to-date information and
announcements.
publicize events of USCA-SNA when requested by the officers or ad hoc committee chairs.
produce and distribute a newsletter each fall and spring semester. The newsletter is to contain
current announcements of activities and information related to functions of USCA-SNA, SNASC,
and NSNA.
The class representative shall: (see ARTICLE X: Section 2)
Section 8:
Officers and committee chairmen shall submit receipts and a report of their expenses to
the treasurer for reimbursement.
Section 9:
Officers and committee chairmen shall deliver all records, papers or other property
association to the president prior to the last meeting of their elected
term.
Section 10:
Chairpersons of all Ad Hoc committees shall attend the Board of Officers and Directors meetings by invitation.
ARTICLE V:
Section 1:
Nominations and Elections
Elections:
a. The officers shall be elected by members of NSNA and USCA-SNA prior to the last meeting of the year. A
plurality vote of all members present and voting shall constitute an election. In case of a tie, a revote shall be
taken. Terms of all officers shall be one academic year.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Section 2:
ARTICLE VI:
Section 1:
belonging to the
Nominations shall be made from the floor.
Class representatives shall be elected by a majority of the respective class and must
be members of the organization.
Notifications of elections must be made one week prior to date of elections.
In the event that the President is unable to serve the elected full term, the Vice-President will complete the
elected term as President.. The Board of Officers have the option of filling the Vice-President position by
either (1) calling a general election by the membership of the organization, or (2) appointing a member for
the remainder of the elected term.
Consent to Serve:
Upon accepting a nomination, nominees must read the bylaws and sign a Consent to
Serve form.
Meetings
Regular Meetings:
An advanced notice of five (5) working days shall be posted prior to regular meetings.
Section 2:
Special Meetings:
Special meetings may be called by the president of USCA-SNA at any time or shall be
called at the
request of eight (8) members in good standing. No special meeting shall be held until notice thereof shall have been announced
at least five (5) working days previous to the date of such meetings. The notice of the meeting shall state the purpose for the
special meeting.
56
ARTICLE VII:
Section 1:
Order of Business
The following shall be the order of business unless the presiding officer deems it
necessary to rearrange the sequence of points in the agenda.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
ARTICLE VIII:
Call to order
Reading and correction or approval of minutes of preceding meetings
Report of officers
Report of standing committees
Report of special committees
Unfinished business
New business
Program
Adjournment
Board of Officers
Section 1:
The Board of Officers shall consist of all the elected officers of the organization and the
class representatives. The advisor(s) shall serve as ex-officio member(s) without a
vote.
Section 2:
All elected Board of Officers of the organization and the class representatives shall have
one vote each in the board decisions. The advisor shall not vote. A quorum for the
board meetings shall be a majority of the voting members present.
Section 3:
Chairmen of all Ad Hoc committees shall attend the Board of Officers meetings by
invitation. The Ad Hoc chairmen shall not have a vote on board decisions.
Section 4:
Section 5:
ARTICLE IX:
The function of the Board of Officers is to:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
coordinate the work of all committee chairmen,
plan the business of each meeting,
approve expenditures of money relating to the organizations operation,
approve activities of the committees,
fill vacancies in any office except the office of president or vice-president,
approve the president’s appointments of Ad Hoc committees and chairmen.
The Board of Officers shall meet once a month at least one week before the monthly
regular SNA meeting and at any special time when called by the president of the
organization.
Standing Committees
Section 1:
Standing committees shall be composed of members of USCA-SNA and assume such duties as are assigned by
the president and specified in these by-laws. A quorum for
committee meetings shall be a majority of the members present.
Section 2:
The committee chairman shall report to the Board of Officers at each Board of Officers
meeting and shall submit a written report of their activities at such time as requested by
the Board of Officers. They shall also report at each regular meeting.
57
Section 3:
Section 4:
The Standing Committees are:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
ARTICLE X:
the Fund-raising Committee
the Break-through-to-Nursing (BTN) Committee
the Scrapbook Committee
the Newsletter and Publicity Committee
The Legislative Committee – promote political awareness among nursing students and plan legislative
activities on a campus level. The chairperson of the Legislative Committee shall be the Legislative Director.
The Bylaws Committee – review the constitution periodically and submit revisions or amendments to the
executive board and to the voting body as needed. The By-Laws Committee shall submit a copy of the
constitution/by-laws to the second vice-president of SNASC annually. The co-chairperson of the Bylaws
Committee shall be the Legislative Director and faculty advisor.
The Fund-raising Committee – raise funds for scholarships and operating budget for OTA. The fund-raiser
director shall serve as chairperson of the Fundraising Committee
The Break-through-to-Nursing Committee – develop activities for recruiting minority groups, increasing
retention of membership in NSNA, and increasing sustaining membership. The break-through-to-nursing
director shall serve as chairperson of the Break-through-to-Nursing Committee
The Scrapbook Committee – compile a scrapbook on a yearly basis and submit it to the SNASC at the
SNASC Convention. The Scrapbook Committee shall maintain/up date the SNA link on the USCA School of
Nursing website. The chairperson of the scrapbook committee shall be the scrapbook director.
The Newsletter and Publicity Committee -- maintain/decorate the SNA Bulletin Board in the SON Food Court
with up-to-date information and announcements; Publicize events of OTA; Produce and distribute a
newsletter each fall and spring semester. The newsletter is to contain current announcements of activities
and information related to functions of OTA, SNASC, and NSNA. The newsletter and publicity director shall
serve as chairperson of the Newsletter and Publicity Committee
Advisor and Class Representatives
Advisor(s):
a. The advisor(s) shall be appointed from the faculty of the School of Nursing by the
Dean of the School of Nursing.
b.
Section 2:
the By-Laws Committee
The functions of the Standing Committees:
a.
Section 1:
the Legislative Committee
The advisor(s) shall act in an advisory capacity to the president, the Board of
Officers, and USCA-SNA.
Class representatives:
a.
b.
Two representatives must be USCA-SNA members in good standing. Representatives are elected by each
class level of students in the generic B.S.N. track.
The class representatives shall:
1. Report to their respective class about planned events and projects
discussed at Board of Officers meetings.
2. Act as a liaison between respective classes and the Board of Officers.
3. Attend Board of Officers & Directors meetings and regular USCA-SNA
meetings.
58
ARTICLE XI:
Parliamentary Authority
All meetings of this association shall be conducted according to parliamentary law as set
forth in Robert’s Rules of order – Newly Revised where the rules apply and are not
in conflict with these by-laws.
ARTICLE XII:
Amendments
Section 1:
Amendments and additions may be made to the constitution by a two-thirds vote of
membership present, providing there is a quorum.
Section 2:
Proposed amendments may be submitted in writing to the Bylaws Committee by any member of USCA-SNA or
by the Board of Officers & Directors
Section 3:
Notification of proposed by-law changes must be presented to the members of USCA-SNA one (1) month prior
to voting.
Section 4:
Amendments become effective immediately upon adoption by the USCA-SNA membership, present and voting.
Section 5:
Upon approval of any by-law changes, an updated copy of the by-laws shall be sent to
SNASC.
Bylaws approved: fall, 2008
Reviewed and Updated fall, 2014
59
University of South Carolina
Aiken Student Nurses’ Advisory
Council
Bylaws
Preamble
We, the students of the University of South Carolina Aiken School of Nursing, in order to conduct student
affairs in an efficient, orderly, and systematic manner; to define clearly the powers of nursing students; to
secure for ourselves training and experience in self-government; and to provide an organizational framework
through which our efforts for a better institution may be directed, do hereby ordain and establish these
bylaws for the School of Nursing Advisory Council.
Mission Statement
The SNAC shall advocate for all nursing students, encourage good fellowship among the students, create a sense of
unity and facilitate communication between faculty, staff, students, and the SGA of USCA, identify student concerns
and act as representative of those concerns, actively implement change in areas of student concern, and inform
students of current events, upcoming issues and potential problems.
Article I. Organization
Section 1. Name
The name of this body shall be The University of South Carolina Aiken Student Nurses’ Advisory Council, referred to
as the SNAC.
Section 2. Jurisdiction
All students registered at the University of South Carolina Aiken and accepted to the upper-division School of
Nursing shall be members of the nursing student body and shall be subject to this Constitution and its bylaws.
Section 3. Franchise
a. Only students registered at the University of South Carolina Aiken and accepted to the upper-division School
of Nursing shall be entitled to vote in the special and general elections of the Student Nurses’ Advisory
Council.
b. The SNAC shall not discriminate on the basis of a person’s race, color, creed, national origin, ethnicity, age,
gender, marital status, lifestyle, disability or economic status.
Article II. Structure
Section 1. Composition
60
a. The Student Nurses’ Advisory Council Board shall consist of the following voting members:
President
Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer
Director at Large
Student Government Senator
One representative per class from each academic semester.
b. The President of the Student Nurses’ Association is invited to act as an ex-officio member and may be
present at SNAC meetings but may not vote.
Section 2. Terms of Office
a. The President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer and Director at Large shall serve a one year term and
shall take office on the last day of classes of the spring semester.
b. Class representatives’ terms shall run for the term of the elected academic semester.
Section 3. Duties and Powers of the President
The president shall:
a. Serve as the principal officer of the advisory council and preside at all meetings of the Advisory Council and
the executive committee.
b. Shall be responsible for seeing that lines of direction given by the actions of the Executive Committee are
carried into effect and for reporting to the membership and the Executive Committee on the conduct of the
affairs of the Advisory Council.
c. Appoint committees and their chairpersons, subject to the approval of the Executive Committee, and make
other appointments as necessary.
d. Serve as chairperson of the Executive and Academic Affairs Committees.
e. Serve as ex-officio member of all committees.
f. Represent SNAC in matters relating to the council and perform all other duties pertaining to the office.
Section 4. Duties of the Vice President
The vice president shall:
a. Assume the duties of the president in the absence or disability of the president.
b. Ascend to the office of president in case of vacancy in the office.
c. Serve as chairperson of the Bylaws Committee.
d. Perform other duties as assigned by the president.
Section 5. Duties of the Secretary
The secretary shall:
a. Keep minutes of all meetings of the council and the Executive Committee, and ensure accuracy prior to
distribution to the Executive Committee for action.
b. Shall send, receive, and distribute all official correspondence.
c. Shall serve as chairperson of the Public Relations Committee.
d. Shall perform any other duties assigned by the president.
Section 6. Duties of the Treasurer
The treasurer shall:
a. Act as custodian of organization funds and see that an annual financial report is prepared.
b. Shall record all receipts, expenditures and appropriations of monies of the USCA SNAC
c. Provide guidance to the council through the Finance Committee with regard to the investment of resources
and acquisition of fixed assets.
d. Shall serve as chairperson of the Finance and Fundraising committees
e. Perform other duties as assigned by the president.
61
Section 7. Duties of the Director at Large
The Director at Large shall:
a. Perform such duties as assigned by the president in accordance with the priorities and needs of the advisory
council.
b. Acts as a counterpart to SGA senator
c. Serves as Chairperson for the Student Affairs Committees
Section 8. Role of the SGA Senator
The Student Government Senator shall:
a. Act as defined in the bylaws of the USCA SGA
b. Act as a liaison between the USCA SGA and the School of Nursing.
Section 9. Role of Class Representatives
Class Representatives shall:
a. Serve on committees as appointed by the President
b. Assist the SGA senator in conducting Town Hall meetings
c. Take report to their respective classes
Article III. Advisors
Section 1.
a. During elections held in odd numbered years, a faculty member shall be appointed by the Dean of the
School of Nursing to serve as an advisor for a two year term.
b. Nominations shall be made by members of the SNAC and accepted by the faculty members prior to the
election. The newly elected board shall then elect the new faculty advisor during their first meeting.
c. In case of vacancy, the SNAC shall make nominations and hold a special meeting to appoint a new advisor.
The appointed advisor shall serve the remainder of the two year term.
d. The Faculty Advisor must be a member of the School of Nursing Faculty
e. The Faculty Advisor shall serve as a resource person for interchange of information between the SNAC and
the School of Nursing faculty
f. The Faculty Advisor should be present at all meetings of the SNAC
Article IV. Elections
Section 1. Process
a. The President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer and Director at Large shall be nominated and elected at
the end of the spring semester by majority vote of all members of the School of Nursing.
b. Class representatives shall be elected at the beginning of each academic semester by a majority vote of
their classmates for a total of five representatives.
c. The SGA senator shall be nominated and elected according to the bylaws of the USCA SGA.
Section 3. Qualification
All SNAC offices require that the student must be accepted to the USCA School of Nursing and maintain a minimum
cumulative grade point average of 2.5, as well as be in good standing with the University.
Section 4. Dual Office Holding
a. No student shall hold more than one SNAC office. No student other than the SGA School of Nursing
Senator shall hold concurrent office in the USCA SGA and the SNAC.
b. The President of the USCA Student Nurses’ Association shall not hold a voting office in the SNAC
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Section 5. Vacancy
a. In the case of a vacancy in the office of President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer or Director at Large
the Executive Committee shall convene to recommend the appointment of a replacement to serve the
remainder of the term.
b. The appointment shall be ratified by a two thirds vote of the SNAC.
c. In the case of a vacancy of class representative the class shall hold a special election to fill the position by
majority vote.
d. In the case of vacancy of the position of SGA senator the position shall be filled according to the USCA SGA
policy and procedure.
Section 6. Oath of Office
a. All SNAC officials shall take the following oath upon assuming office:
“I do solemnly affirm that I have read, understood and will uphold the Student
Nurses’ Advisory Council
Constitution and Bylaws and will faithfully uphold the
office of
of the Student Nurses’ Advisory
Council”
b. Officers shall be sworn in by their predecessors. Class representatives shall be sworn in by the Vice
President.
Article V. Impeachment Process
Section 1. Grounds for Impeachment
Any student holding office in the SNAC is subject to impeachment for failure to perform the function of his/her office,
for gross neglect of duty, for failure to execute assigned responsibilities, or for violation of the Philosophy of the
USCA SON and the provisions of these bylaws.
Section 2. Notice
Written notice shall be sent, at least seven days prior, to the accused and all members of the SNAC specifying all
charges, and the time, place, and date of the hearing.
Section 3. Impeachment Committee
The impeachment committee shall consist of the members of the respective SNAC and will elect a chair to preside
over the hearing. A two-thirds vote of the impeachment committee is necessary to remove the individual from office.
Section 4. Hearing
a. Removal from office may be exercised only after the SNAC has conducted a fair hearing.
b. The President or acting Chair of the SNAC shall instruct any SNAC office holder, subject to impeachment, to
appear before the respective Executive Board for a hearing.
c. In the event that it is the President of the SNAC who is being impeached, the Vice-President shall instruct
the President to appear.
Article VI. Committees
Section 1.
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a. The following committees of the SNAC should be appointed by the President at the start of his or her term in
office. All committees shall have at least one executive member sitting on them. Before action is taken on a
committee proposal, a vote must be taken. In the event of a committee vacancy, the President shall appoint
a replacement within 15 school days.
b. The president of the SNAC shall serve as an ex-officio member of all committees.
c. The president of the USCA Student Nurses’ Advisory Council shall serve as an ex-officio member of the
council and shall attend general meetings but shall not serve on any committees.
Section 2. Executive Committee
Executive Committee shall be chaired by the President. Members shall consist of the Vice President, Treasurer, and
Secretary. The duty of this committee is to oversee the smaller sub-committees; the executive board will prepare all
agendas to be discussed at SNAC meetings.
Section 3. Academic Affairs Committee
The Academic Affairs Committee shall be chaired by the President. Members shall consist of two other board
members to be appointed by the president. The duties of this committee shall be to channel any student body
concerns regarding textbooks, faculty, grades, and such; they will also inform the SNAC of any concerns of the
faculty; they will be responsible for taking forth action on those matters which are brought before them.
Section 4. Bylaws Committee
The Bylaws Committee shall be chaired by the Vice President. Members shall consist of two other board members
to be appointed by the president. The duty of this committee shall be an annual review of the SNAC bylaws. Any
needed revisions will be made along with any addendums.
Section 5. Finance Committee
The Finance Committee shall be chaired by the treasurer. Members shall consist of two other board members to be
appointed by the president. The duties of this committee shall be to examine previous budgets and recommend a
new budget each year to the president elect; to maintain financial records of the SNAC and be prepared to give
monthly reports to the executive board.
Section 6. Fundraising Committee
The Fundraising Committee shall be chaired by the Treasurer. Members shall consist of two other board members
to be appointed by the president. The duty of this committee is to generate fundraising projects for the SON; all
activities must have approval from the Executive Board prior to start.
Section 7. Student Affairs Committee
The Student Affairs committee shall be chaired by the Director at Large. Members shall consist of the SGA Senator
and one other board member to be appointed by the president. The duties of this committee shall be to voice any
suggestions/concerns made by the student body of the SON.
Section 8. Public Relations & Communication Committee
Public Relations & communication committee shall be chaired by the Secretary. Members shall consist of two other
board members to be appointed by the president. The duties of this committee shall be to notify all board members
of any pressing issues and is responsible for any SNAC publications.
Article VII. Meetings
Section 1. Attendance
a. The SNAC shall convene at a regularly stated day and time and no less than twice per month to be decided
at the beginning of each semester.
b. Special meetings may be called by the SNAC president or by written request of one half of the membership.
c. In the event that an officer of the board will have a known absence, it is the responsibility of the member to
give notice in writing no less than 2 school days in advance to the SNAC president.
d. In the event of an emergency absence, it is the responsibility of the board member to give reason within 2
school days following the absence.
e. Any board member of the Council who, during the semester, has more than three unexcused absences shall
be subject to impeachment.
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Section 2. Conduct
a. The President shall chair all meetings of the SNAC. If the president is unable to conduct a meeting the Vice
President or Secretary may serve as chair. In the event that there is no chair to call a meeting to order, no
business shall be conducted.
b. One faculty advisor should be present at all called and special meeting of the SNAC but shall not vote.
Section 3. Parliamentarian
a. Meetings should be conducted according to Roberts Rules of Order. The Council Parliamentarian shall
review the Robert Rules of Order at the first meeting of the council.
b. The Parliamentarian shall be seated next to the presiding officer for the purpose of maintaining order. It will
be the responsibility of the Parliamentarian to keep a record of all rules and statues governing the actions of
the council and procedures of the council.
Article VIII. Decisions, Motions, and Bylaws
Section 1. Voting
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a. The SNAC shall vote on any and all decisions, motions, and by-laws of the SNAC.
b. Each voting member of the SNAC shall have one vote on questions presented. The president shall abstain
from voting unless the vote of the membership results in a tie.
c. All decisions, motions, and by-laws will require majority vote of a quorum. This quorum shall consist of no
less than six voting members.
Section 2. Notice
If a vote occurs on a regular meeting date, only regular notice need be given. If a special meeting is called then
three school days notice must be given. If the above conditions are not met, then any vote taken at such meeting
shall be null and void.
The organization agrees to adhere to all policies and procedures of the University and all local,
state, and federal laws. Members will become acquainted with policies and procedures in the
official student handbook and other policies and procedures provided by the University.
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Consent to Serve Form
For School of Nursing Supported Student Activities
I understand that I am responsible for fulfilling the duties of my elected position as stated in the by-laws
of my organization and that if those duties are abused and/or neglected, I may be removed from my elected
position by the faculty advisors of the respective organization.
I understand that I am also responsible for upholding all sections of the by-laws as a representative of
nursing students in the School of Nursing at USCA.
I realize that my consent includes an obligation to attend Board meetings, attend other pertinent School of
Nursing supported student meetings, and participate actively as a committee member.
I am in good academic standing. I am passing all my nursing courses.
I understand that I must attend the required Leadership Retreat held each January.
*** Applies to USCA Student Nurses Association only- I also understand that I must be an
official member of NSNA to hold my elected position & present my NSNA number to the
faculty as proof of membership. ***
Name(printed):
Signature:
Date:
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Endorsement of all current course coordinators:
Signature:
Date:
Signature:
Date:
Signature:
Date:
Received:
Faculty Advisor:
Date
Signature
Updated: 5/11/09 apcd
*** This form must be accompanied by the University of South Carolina Aiken School of
Nursing Student Grade Report for Participation in School of Nursing Supported Activities
***
Adopted 11/08; Reviewed 6/09; 6/10; reviewed 12/14
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University of South Carolina Aiken School of Nursing Event Reporting Form
If a student has an accident or any other event during the clinical period the following form must be completed by the student
and by the instructor.
1. STUDENT INFORMATION
Name
Campus address
Telephone
2. EVENT INFORMATION: Type of Event:
A.
Classroom event: Describe
B.
Student
ID
City/State/Zip
email
Date of Event:
Clinical event:
Needle stick*
_ Wrong medication:
drug dose route other:
Other: Describe
Agency Incident Report filed?
yes (attach copy)
no
C.
Motor vehicle accident: Clinically-related? yes* no
Describe:
Location
Injuries
no
yes:
Self
Passenger(s) Other driver
EMS called?
no
yes Transport to hospital?
no
yes: Who?
Police Report completed? _no
_yes (attach copy)
Medical Treatment obtained?
no
yes: Who?
D.
Other: Please describe below
Accidental injury: clinically-related?
Theft/robbery/assault
Patient/client complaint
Clinical agency complaint
yes*
no
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Other
* Report to Human Resources for USC Employee Compensation Forms
Names/contact information of other persons involved:
_
3. Provide a brief, detailed description of the event. Use other side if necessary. Attach a copy of Police or
Incident Report, if any.
4. Follow-up action, if any (completed by clinical faculty, Course Coordinator, and/or Dean)
Student Signature and date
Faculty Signature and date
Course Coordinator Signature and date
Dean Signature and date
Jmcd/02/09; rev. 04/09, 7/09, 9/09; 6/10
SCHOOL OF NURSING PETITION
To be completed and returned with the signature of your advisor and the School of Nursing Dean to the
Chair, Admissions, Progression, and Graduation Committee in the Nursing Building.
NAME:
SSN:
please print
HOME ADDRESS:
HOME PHONE:
CELL PHONE:
SIGNATURE:
DATE:
Subject of Petition:***
Advisor Action:
SIGNATURE:
DATE
COMMENTS:
School Dean Action:
SIGNATURE:
DATE
COMMENTS:
***Submit your petition to the School of Nursing Office once you have obtained the two required signatures.
Your petition will be presented at the next scheduled Admissions Progression, and Graduation Committee
Meeting. You are encouraged to attach a document addressing the following information: (1) Factors that
contributed to your poor academic performance [include documentation if applicable]. (2) Actions you have
taken to rectify this problem [include documentation if applicable]. (3) If the Committee approves your petition
what is your plan to succeed with your educational goals?
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Committee Action:
APPROVED:  DISAPPROVED: 
SIGNATURE:
_DATE
REASON FOR DECISION
Personal Appeal Action:
SIGNATURE:
_DATE
_ APPROVED:  DISAPPROVED: 
REASON FOR DECISION:
Adopted : 4/05; Revised 6/06; Reviewed 6/07; 6/08; 6/09; 6/10.. 12/14
Acknowledgement of Suspected Pregnancy and Waiver of USCA Responsibility
I,
, suspect that I am pregnant. I acknowledge
that I am not having any physical problems. I have made an appointment for an initial new mother visit
with
(include credentials of obstetrics provider). This earliest
appointment that I could schedule is planned for
(date) at
(time). I
understand that it is imperative that I keep this appointment so that I may continue to participate in clinical
nursing course activities (as outlined in the "Pregnancy Policy" in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Student Handbook).
If I choose to go to my scheduled clinical activities before I have been examined by my obstetrics care
provider on the date listed above and given medical clearance to participate in clinical activities, I accept
responsibility for this decision and do not hold the University of South Carolina Aiken School of Nursing
responsible for either my unborn baby or my well-being.
If I choose not to attend my scheduled assigned clinical activities before my appointment as listed above,
this clinical absence will be evaluated as a clinical absence as outlined in the USCA Bachelor of Science in
Nursing Student Handbook under the heading "Attendance Policy for Clinical".
Student's Signature
Date
The Pregnancy Policy Form is available from the USCA Nursing Office.
Because of changing health needs and potential restrictions on activities during pregnancy, the following
policy will apply to pregnant students.
The student will:
1. Inform the professor as soon as possible regarding pregnancy and the estimated date of
confinement.
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2. Submit to the faculty a statement from the physician or nurse midwife at the following
times verifying that the student is in satisfactory physical condition to attend class and
clinical laboratory.
a) When the pregnancy is confirmed
b) At the beginning of every semester
c) After delivery prior to returning to class/clinical
3. Pregnant students are encouraged to attend as classes and clinical experiences. The
clinical portion of the class will be handled on an individual basis. However, it must
be noted that according to the Clinical Absence Policy, “If a student has been absent
from clinical on more than one occasion, it may not be possible for the student to
make up the clinical experience. In this even, the student may receive a grade of
“I” (Incomplete) or “F” and will not progress to the next level.”
1. The faculty reserves the right to make the decision regarding attendance in class and
clinical.
University of South Carolina Aiken
School of Nursing
Pregnancy-Student Release Form*
I hereby release the School of Nursing and the University of South Carolina Aiken from responsibility for
any injury or illness to me (and if pregnant, my baby) while attending a hospital or other clinical
experience. I understand that risks do exist for me (and if pregnant, my unborn baby) while practicing
nursing in the clinical setting and I do assume all risks involved.
Print Name
Student Signature
Faculty Signature
Date:
Date
Date
* Students sign this form prior to beginning first clinical course.
Revised 8/01; Revised 6/05; Revised 6/06; Reviewed 6/07; Reviewed 6/08; 6/09; 6./10.12/14
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University of South Carolina Aiken
School of Nursing
Student Grade Report for Participation in School of Nursing Supported Activities
To be completed 2 weeks prior to attending the activity
The Student Grade Report is used to ensure that student participation in School of Nursing- supported
extra-curricular activities involving off-campus travel does not pose the risk of compromising the
student’s academic success.
The course coordinators and faculty advisors of School of Nursing-supported organizations reserve the
right to prohibit attendance at conventions and workshops if a student is not progressing and successfully
passing all courses the student is enrolled in at the time of travel.
Students who are not passing each course are discouraged from attending conferences, conventions,
or workshops that may compromise study time, clinical time, and/or class time.
Printed Name of Student:
Course
Current Grade
Signature of Course
Coordinator
Date
Students please read and sign:
By signing this document, I verify that the information on this form is accurate.
Signature of Student: _________________________________
Date: _________________________
Adopted 11/08; Reviewed 6/09; 6/10; rev. 9/11, 12/14
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