Program Handbook
Enhanced Professional Practice—Gerontology and Chronic
Illness
1362
Doon Campus
School of Health & Life Sciences and Community Services
Conestoga College
Academic Year 2015/2016
This is a companion document to the current Conestoga Student Guide
This document can be found on the program shell of eConestoga and the program specific page
online.
Revised on July 14, 2015
Enhanced professional practice – Gerontology and Chronic Illness Program Handbook 2015-2016
Table of Contents
Program Handbook .................................................................................................................. i
Program Handbook Guidelines .................................................................................................v
Welcome .................................................................................................................................vi
Top Five Expectations of You .................................................................................................. vii
1. Use MyConestoga To Connect To: ......................................................................................... vii
2. Know and Plan Around Your Academic Schedule With Your Family ..................................... vii
3. Be the Professional You Wish To Become - From Day One .................................................. viii
4. Attend To Enhance Success .................................................................................................. viii
5. Take Responsibility for Your Academic Status ...................................................................... viii
Top Five Resources for You ...................................................................................................... ix
1. Your Teaching Team................................................................................................................ ix
2. Counselling and Services for Personal Needs ......................................................................... ix
3. Accessibility Services ................................................................................................................x
4. Student Study Spaces and General Supports ..........................................................................x
5. Services for Students .............................................................................................................. xi
Letter to Students.................................................................................................................. xiii
1. Program Overview ............................................................................................................... 1
Program Description—Gerontology and Chronic Illness ............................................................ 1
Spring 2015 Intake Program Design (1401) ............................................................................... 1
Spring 2015 Intake Program Learning Outcomes (1401) ........................................................... 2
Program Map 2015-2016 ............................................................................................................ 3
Letter of Completion for CNO/NNAS Forms ............................................................................... 4
Program Design for Your Cohort................................................................................................. 4
Pathways and Further Post-secondary Education Opportunities .............................................. 5
Employment Opportunities ........................................................................................................ 5
2. Relationships ....................................................................................................................... 6
Communication and Contact Information .................................................................................. 6
Faculty Directory ........................................................................................................................ 6
Contacting Program Staff ........................................................................................................... 6
Faculty Availability...................................................................................................................... 6
Student Engagement .................................................................................................................. 7
Student Concerns/Issues............................................................................................................ 7
Student Representation ............................................................................................................. 7
PAC (Program Advisory Committee) .......................................................................................... 7
WIHSC (Waterloo Inter-professional Health & Community Student Collaborative) ................. 7
Student Feedback ....................................................................................................................... 8
Key Performance Indicators ....................................................................................................... 8
Student Appraisal of Teaching ................................................................................................... 8
Class Cancellations ...................................................................................................................... 9
Class Cancellation due to Faculty Absence ................................................................................ 9
Class Cancellations due to Inclement Weather ......................................................................... 9
Personal notifications of class cancellations .............................................................................. 9
3. Standards of Conduct and Professional Practice ................................................................ 10
Program Standards ................................................................................................................... 10
Nursing Competencies and Standards ...................................................................................... 11
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Enhanced professional practice – Gerontology and Chronic Illness Program Handbook 2015-2016
Feedback from Our Learners .................................................................................................... 12
Code of Behaviour..................................................................................................................... 12
Uniforms and Grooming Guidelines ........................................................................................ 14
Uniform Regulations................................................................................................................ 14
Dress Code for Agencies NOT Requiring Uniforms ................................................................ 14
Footwear .................................................................................................................................. 15
Identification ........................................................................................................................... 15
Jewelry ..................................................................................................................................... 15
Hair ........................................................................................................................................... 15
Fingernails ................................................................................................................................ 16
Smoking.................................................................................................................................... 16
Chewing Gum ........................................................................................................................... 16
Food and Beverages ................................................................................................................ 16
Cellphones/Smartphones........................................................................................................ 16
Transportation of Uniform to and from Clinical Settings ...................................................... 16
Academic Integrity and Plagiarism .......................................................................................... 17
Copyright – What Students Need to Know ............................................................................. 19
Cumulative Copying ................................................................................................................. 19
Safe Practice ............................................................................................................................. 20
Professional Conduct - Use of Social Media and Cell Phones................................................. 21
Social Media Policy .................................................................................................................. 21
Cell Phone Policy ..................................................................................................................... 22
Cowan Health Sciences Centre Policies .................................................................................... 23
Open Access Lab:...................................................................................................................... 23
Human Resources .................................................................................................................... 23
Accessing the Clinical Labs ....................................................................................................... 23
User Responsibility Regarding Maintenance: .......................................................................... 24
Acknowledgement of Privacy .................................................................................................. 24
Treatment for Punctured Wounds .......................................................................................... 25
Student Protection Acknowledgement ................................................................................... 26
4. Attendance and Student Success Strategies ....................................................................... 27
Attendance................................................................................................................................ 27
Punctuality ................................................................................................................................ 27
Clinical Practice Attendance ..................................................................................................... 27
Attendance for Evaluations ...................................................................................................... 28
Notification for Absence from Evaluations .............................................................................. 28
Follow-up after Reporting Your Absence from an Evaluation ................................................. 29
Religious Holidays ..................................................................................................................... 29
Documentation to Substantiate Your Reported Absence ........................................................ 30
Evaluations worth less than 20% ............................................................................................. 30
Evaluations worth 20% or more............................................................................................... 30
Acceptable reasons for Absence .............................................................................................. 30
Tests and Examination Procedures ........................................................................................... 31
Types of evaluation .................................................................................................................. 32
Sources of evaluations ............................................................................................................. 32
Method of recording results of evaluation .............................................................................. 32
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Enhanced professional practice – Gerontology and Chronic Illness Program Handbook 2015-2016
Evaluation forms ...................................................................................................................... 32
Assignment Policies .................................................................................................................. 33
5. Academic Progress through the Program ........................................................................... 35
Academic Standing and Promotion .......................................................................................... 35
Promotion Process ................................................................................................................... 35
Pre- Requisites.......................................................................................................................... 35
Promotion Decisions ................................................................................................................ 35
Program Discontinuance .......................................................................................................... 36
Program Withdrawal ................................................................................................................ 36
Re-entry to the program .......................................................................................................... 36
Repeating a course ................................................................................................................... 36
Process for Resolution of Student Concerns ............................................................................ 37
Maintaining Student Files ......................................................................................................... 38
6. Field Placement Experiences .............................................................................................. 40
Pre-Requisites to Clinical Practice ............................................................................................ 40
Safety in the Workplace Course................................................................................................ 40
Student Consent Forms ............................................................................................................ 40
Policy for Accidents or Injuries while on Clinical Placement .................................................... 41
7. Student Awards ................................................................................................................. 42
Program revision log.............................................................................................................. 43
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Enhanced professional practice – Gerontology and Chronic Illness Program Handbook 2015-2016
Program Handbook Guidelines
The purpose of this handbook is to provide students with program specific details and other important
information. The material in this handbook is accurate at the date of posting, and is applicable for the
current academic year. Students will be informed of handbook changes that occur, if any, through
college email. Program handbooks are updated yearly and students must check their program
handbook for the current edition.
______________________________________________________________________________
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Enhanced professional practice – Gerontology and Chronic Illness Program Handbook 2015-2016
Welcome
To the School of Health & Life Sciences and Community Services
Your Bridge to Practice
What Can This Mean For You?
The opportunity to begin, today, to become the professional you aspire to be.
The opportunity to learn in real-life settings and with real-life scenarios, rehearsing for the day
when you will be in these real-life situations.
A unique inter-professional opportunity, given the number of different disciplines in the school.
You will learn with, about and from your future colleagues.
An opportunity to take advantage of the state-of-the-art facilities, social and study spaces in
our Cowan Health Sciences Center, as well as other unique learning resources such as the Motz
Emergency Service Bays in the WREMS Station and the Child Development Centre on the Doon
Campus
Your goal of being viewed by employers as a “preferred graduate” is up to you; your professors,
technologists, administrative staff and college services look forward to supporting you as you
journey from day one to your graduation.
Your goal of being viewed by employers as a “preferred graduate” is up to you; your professors,
technologists, administrative staff and College services look forward to supporting you as you
journey from day one to your graduation.
vi
Top Five Expectations of You
1. Use MyConestoga To Connect To:
Your Conestoga Email: (e.g. John Smith, Student Number 1234567, jsmith4567@conestogac.on.ca)
• This is the official communication vehicle regarding your academic requirements. Check it
regularly and respond as requested.
eConestoga: (Desire to Learn)
• This is your resource for all course-based program information and course-based
communication with your faculty.
• Make eConestoga your partner in learning; this is your guide to all course activity.
Student Portal:
• Find your grade information, college tuition invoices, class schedules and absence reporting.
Practicum Health Requirements: (Go to “Services” and find “Practicum Services Link”)
• Keep track of your requirements; know that they are complete to allow you to go on your
practicum.
2. Know and Plan Around Your Academic Schedule With Your
Family
Course Schedule:
• Your schedule has been planned with many people and multiple considerations in mind.
• Classes can be scheduled from 8am to 6pm (note, times for practicums follow work place
schedules).
• Changes may be considered but only for extenuating reasons (Please discuss with your
Program Coordinator).
The Academic Year has critical dates: Please plan around these dates to ensure you are here when
you need to be--including the potential need to be present for the two weeks after the semester
ends if you might need to complete supplemental work to allow you to continue to the next
semester. Program start and end dates, holidays and deadlines for course add/drop and withdrawal,
are located in the Student Guide. Course changes (add/dropping) may also be made through the
Student Portal under the “My Courses” tab.
Fall 2015
Dates
Winter 2016
Dates
Fall Orientation Week
Aug 31 – Sept 4
Winter Orientation
January 4
Fall Semester Classes Start
September 8
Winter Semester Classes Start
January 5
Study Week
February 15-19
Last Week of Semester
December 14-18
Last Week of Semester
April 18-April 22
Intersession (no classes)
Dec. 21-Jan 1/16
Intersession (no classes)
April 25 – May 6
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Enhanced professional practice – Gerontology and Chronic Illness Program Handbook 2015-2016
Top Five Expectations of You
3. Be the Professional You Wish To Become - From Day One
Civility, respect, and professional behaviors will be key to the quality of your learning experience—
and a future employer's first and lasting impression
Professional Dress & Conduct: See section three of the Handbook for professionalism expectations
for your program. The college’s Student Guide sets out Student Code of Conduct for our community
at Conestoga.
Pre-practicum Health Requirements Complete as required; without these, you will not be able to
progress to your practicum and your program completion will be in jeopardy (per your information
in the Student Portal)
Social Media: Use responsibly –don’t blow your future on ill-advised communication with the e-tools
that we use so freely (see section three of the Handbook)
4. Attend To Enhance Success
Please Review Attendance Expectations in See Section four of the Handbook: Attendance for class,
labs and practicum underpins student learning and your experience as a future professional.
Absence from Evaluations: Must be reported in the Student Portal before your absence to be eligible
for a repeated evaluation.
Request for Accommodation for Religious Holidays: Must be requested to your Program
Coordinator in the first three weeks of each semester
5. Take Responsibility for Your Academic Status
Student Records if you have questions about your student record, academic status and or program
withdrawals, go to the Registrar’s Office and speak to your Program Coordinator.
Fee Payments: Payment is required to attend classes. Check your Student Portal for invoices.
Credit Transfer/Exemptions: Conestoga supports the transferability of academic credits between
programs and educational institutions through recognized transfer pathways, articulation
agreements and course-to-course equivalences. Please refer to the Student Guide for more
information.
Student Forms: To access forms go to the Student Forms page.
Academic Policies & Procedures: May be found under Policies and Procedures
Student Affairs Polices & Procedures: May be found at the Student Affairs page.
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Enhanced professional practice – Gerontology and Chronic Illness Program Handbook 2015-2016
Top Five Resources for You
1. Your Teaching Team
Contact Information: Is posted on eConestoga and in your Handbook (Section two in the Handbook)
Appointments: Making appointments (in person, by phone, email) helps to ensure your desired
resource is available.
Email Inquiries: will be answered within two business days.
Urgent Need for Help: Program Assistants are available to help you reach one of the Teaching Team
(contact information in Section two of the Handbook)
2. Counselling and Services for Personal Needs
College Counselling: Professionally-trained counsellors can help you achieve your educational
goals—for such common support as stress management, anxiety, depression, transition issues,
family issues, etc. Counselling is free, voluntary and confidential. Arrange to see a Counsellor quickly
if academic or personal problems stand in the way of your College success. Counselling is free,
voluntary and confidential. To make an appointment, visit or call Doon--Room 1A101, 519-748-5220,
ext. 3360, Monday to Friday, 8:30 to 4:30. Check the counselling services website for more
information.
Good2Talk: Confidential 24-hour phone line for stresses big and small 1-866-925-5454
Conestoga Security: Provides a safe and secure work and learning environment. 519-748-5220 ext.
3357. Refer to the Student Guide for Conestoga’s Safety and Security Services and procedures.
Student Financial Services: Student Financial Services can help you by providing you with options to
finance your post-secondary education.
CSI Food Bank: The CSI Food Bank is an emergency food relief program for current Conestoga
students.
Health Services: Your family doctor on campus. Check out the services that they offer on their
website or call 519-748-5220 ext. 3679. Services available Monday to Friday, 8:30 to 4:30. Some
same day appointments may be available by walk-in. A full-time health nurse is on site.
Facility Information: Refer to the Student Guide for information on after-hours parking, classroom
and computer labs.
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Top Five Resources for You
3. Accessibility Services
Students with Documented Disabilities are encouraged to book an appointment with Accessibility
Services to access accommodations –EARLY in your program. Disability-related documentation will
be required to book an appointment. Go to the Accessibility Services webpage for more information.
Adaptive Technology Aids and Special Facilities:
Adaptive Aids are arranged through Accessibility Services; handicapped –accessible washrooms are
located throughout the campus. Contact the Adaptive Technology Lab for more information on
adaptive technology aids.
4. Student Study Spaces and General Supports
Cowan Health Sciences Centre (F-wing)
Student Lounge Space –Enjoy seats on each of the three floors. Plugs for laptops and charging
stations are located throughout these areas.
Student Meeting Room Space—Book through the Customer Service Desk for general access to 1F18
and 1F20 and spaces designated for degree programs.
General Access Computers and printers are located in two areas:
• 1st Floor –in the student lounge area with photocopier
• 2nd Floor—at the Customer Service Desk and kiosk area
Open Access Lab –2nd Floor, 2F18.
This is available on a come and go basis for health & pre-health programs practicing key skills. It is
open from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every day. Book with an Open Access Nurse Technologist.
Lockers—available with your tuition; important to store your extra clothes and books, etc. so that
you can be at your professional best in the lab. To learn how to obtain a locker, please click here.
Information Technology-- New ITS HELP DESK—1st Floor Ewing (provides supports & general
assistance with College-related needs such as email, Network accounts, connectivity & wireless
printing. Go to the Web IT Service Desk for more information.
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Enhanced professional practice – Gerontology and Chronic Illness Program Handbook 2015-2016
Top Five Resources for You
5. Services for Students
Library Resource Centre: Located on 2nd Floor B Wing; Go to the Library Resource Centre page for
more information.
International Office: Check out the International Education Office for services available to you.
Learning Commons: Your ONE-STOP resource for academic services and resources, such as Math,
Writing Skills, Peer Tutors and resources for APA. Check out their website or Access through
MyConestoga.
Student Life: Get involved and shape your experience. Visit the Student Life page or Connect to
MyConestoga for your Co-Curricular Record.
Student Financial Services: Your one-stop resource to apply for student awards and bursaries—apply
early to increase your chances.
Bookstore: Your location to buy books (check out their options including used books), clothing for
your program, general supplies. Find it in the A wing, just inside Door 1.
Co-op and Career Advising: Your resource for Co-op Placements (if you are in a degree); your source
of help to look for summer jobs or future careers and gain help preparing your resume. Check out
the Co-op and Career Services site for more information.
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Enhanced professional practice – Gerontology and Chronic Illness Program Handbook 2015-2016
Welcome to Enhanced Professional Practice
Thank you for choosing Conestoga College and congratulations on your admission to the Enhanced
professional practice –Gerontology and Chronic Illness (EPP-GCI) Program. We hope you will find this
program a valuable complement to your existing academic preparation and experience. We wish you every
success as you transition to professional nursing practice in Canada.
In this handbook, there is important information that will help you to become familiar with Conestoga
College’s academic standards, regulations, procedures, and processes specific to the Enhanced professional
practice –GCI Program. Please note that general information about the College can be found in the
Conestoga College Student Guide, which applies to all learners regardless of program in which they are
enrolled.
Please take time to familiarize yourself with the information in this handbook. You are responsible for being
aware of the academic standards, procedures, and processes outlined in this handbook. At any time, please
feel comfortable to ask your professor, coordinator or Program Chair to clear your doubts about the
expectations of learners in the EPP-GCI Program.
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Letter to Students
Dear Post-Graduate Nursing Student,
Welcome to Enhanced professional practice.
This handbook has been prepared to provide information about academic standards, guidelines and
processes specific to the Enhanced Professional Practice – Gerontology and Chronic Illness Program. It has
been compiled with careful consideration for your personal and professional growth during your studies
at Conestoga College. Reading, understanding, and following the information in this handbook are
essential steps to you achieving success in this program and your chosen profession.
Please know that your previous education and experience are acknowledged. They will provide a sound
foundation upon which to build your nursing knowledge nursing practice within the context of the
Canadian health-care system.
Together, our team is dedicated to making your learning experience an enriching one. We are here to help
you have a successful year. Should you require assistance in any area of your studies throughout your
time at Conestoga College, please speak directly with your Faculty members and/or the Program
Coordinator.
I wish you the very best in your studies and look forward to meeting each of you during your tenure at
Conestoga College.
Sincerely,
Marlene Raasok (Executive Dean, Health & Life Sciences and Community Services),
Don Wildfong (Chair, Continuing Education & Specialty Programs),
EPP Program Coordinator, Faculty and Staff.
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Enhanced professional practice – Gerontology and Chronic Illness Program Handbook 2015-2016
1. Program Overview
Program Description—Gerontology and Chronic Illness
This one-year program is geared to experienced internationally educated nurses holding a four-year
bachelor's degree in nursing. Through theoretical and clinical learning and supervised clinical practice, this
program focuses on caring for seniors throughout the continuum of care in a diversity of settings. It allows
students to develop skills in care planning, nursing diagnosis, critical thinking, and decision making with
seniors (who are living with chronic illness) and their families. In addition, course content will cover the
philosophy, culture, communication skills, ethics and gerontological practice of nursing in Canada.
Program Length: 1 Year
Spring 2015 Intake Program Design (1401)
Level
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
Course
Code
COMM8150
NURS8685
NURS8697
NURS8705
NURS8725
NURS8755
NURS8785
NURS8805
NURS1445
NURS8375
NURS8747
NURS8935
NURS8945
NURS8955
NURS8965
NURS8975
Title
Professional Communication & Conduct
Seniors Care in the Canadian Health Care System
Physical Challenges in Older Adults
Cognitive Challenges in Older Adults
Living with Chronic Illness
Professional Practice Applications in Seniors Care
Clinical Practicum – Gerontology I
Clinical Practicum – Gerontology II
Nursing Theory & Research
NCLEX Preparation
Nursing Leadership & Management
Achieving Success in Your Health Care Career
Policy & Advocacy: Throughout the Lifespan and Across
the Continuum
Practical Foundations of Community Service
Care of the Person and Family at the End of Life
Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE
Preparation)
Total Hours
Course
Hours
20
20
30
30
30
30
60
80
40
30
40
50
30
50
35
25
600
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Enhanced professional practice – Gerontology and Chronic Illness Program Handbook 2015-2016
Spring 2015 Intake Program Learning Outcomes (1401)
Through successful completion of this program, the graduate will have reliably demonstrated the ability to:
1. Integrate nursing research and theoretical underpinnings as they relate to gerontological nursing
practice within the context of the Canadian health-care system.
2. Uphold the principles of accountability, diversity, equity and dignity in the care of Canadian seniors
and their families through the examination of the role of the registered nurse.
3. Differentiate between normal age-related changes and pathological changes in the older adult to
support the promotion of healthy aging and disease prevention.
4. Conduct comprehensive geriatric assessments to design individualized plans of care.
5. Comply with legislation and regulations governing nursing practice within the Canadian health care
system through practice demonstration in clinical, simulated and real-life environments.
6. Promote person- and family-centred care and strengthen inter-professional collaborative practice
to meet the therapeutic needs of those affected by chronic illness, multiple comorbidities and/or
life-limiting illness in clinical, simulated and real-life environments.
7. Respond in a way that meets the needs and expectations of persons, families and populations at
the end of life.
8. Examine strategies to promote professional self-care to optimize resilience in the provision of safe
and quality nursing care.
9. Implement strategies to enhance professional leadership capabilities at the levels of the
professional, organization and health-care system.
10. Analyze the health impact of public policy on the Canadian population
11. Determine appropriate responses to clinical scenarios using evidence-informed methods and tools.
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Enhanced professional practice – Gerontology and Chronic Illness Program Handbook 2015-2016
Program Map 2015-2016
Program Map describes your learning journey with three important components:
1. All courses focus on you demonstrating development towards the program outcomes and capabilities through your program journey.
2. There are themes for your learning that will inform you on the courses you will take to develop program capabilities.
3. Each semester has a theme that creates milestones for your learning within a semester and your journey from one semester to the next
semester and ultimately to your readiness to graduate.
Learning Dimension
Semester 1
Enhanced nursing capabilities with
an emphasis on chronic disease
management and the care of the
older adult
COMM8150 Professional
Communication and Conduct
Canadian Health Care
System and the Role of
the Registered Nurse NURS8685 Seniors Care in the
Canadian Health Care System
NURS8585 Comprehensive Geriatric
Assessment
HEAL1810 Mental Health First Aid
Nursing Knowledge
Nursing KnowledgePractice Integration
Nursing KnowledgePractice Consolidation
HEAL1895 Gentle Persuasive
Approaches
NURS8725 Living with Chronic Illness
NURS1445 Nursing Theory and
Research
NURS8615Professional Practice
Application in Seniors Care
NURS8645 Clinical Practicum –
Gerontology I
OHS1320 Safety in the Workplace
Total Hours
Hours
20
20
45
12
Semester 2
Advanced professional practice,
career socialization and workforce
preparedness
NURS8945 Policy and Advocacy:
Throughout the Lifespan and Across
the Continuum
NURS8580 Achieving Success in
your Health Care Career
NURS8965 Care of the Person and
Family at the End of Life
NURS8747 Nursing Leadership and
Management
Graduate
Outcomes/Capabilities
Hours
per CNP ETP
competencies
30
30
30
45
2) Knowledge-Based
Practice
8
30
45
45
85
15
325
1) Professional
Responsibility and
Accountability
3) Ethical Practice
NURS8955 Practical Foundations of
Community Service
NURS8975 Objective Structured
Clinical Examination Preparation
NURS8660 Clinical Practicum –
Gerontology II
NURS8375 NCLEX Preparation
Total Hours
45
30
4) Service to Public
5) Self-Regulation
65
30
305
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College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) Registration
In advance to beginning the registration process with the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) please consult
your program coordinator. Conestoga College recommends waiting to write the CNO registration exam
until completion of both the ENP & EPP programs. Combined, completion of both the ENP & EPP programs
will help to prepare students to successfully complete the CNO registration process.
Letter of Completion for CNO/NNAS Forms
Students requiring CNO/NNAS forms to be completed by Conestoga College are required to submit the
following two forms:
1) Request for Transcripts
2) Completion of Letters form
Both of these forms should be submitted directly to the Registrar’s office. Each request will be at the cost
of the applicant, as an administrative fee will apply.
Program Design for Your Cohort
Students can find their program design on the student Portal by following the steps below:
1. Log in to Student Portal
2. Click on ‘My Courses’ tab
3. Select ‘View Progress Report’ button
Courses are listed by level/semester. Students can also view courses for the most current program design
for this academic year on the Conestoga College website. To find these courses, students need to scroll
down the page to the ‘Program Courses’.
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Pathways and Further Post-secondary Education Opportunities
Conestoga pathways enable students to build on their academic achievements in order to earn a degree
or additional credential. Pathways are formed through agreements between Conestoga programs or
partner institutions. View the transfer agreement opportunities for this program.
There are a number of different opportunities available to students who want to continue studying at
Conestoga. Whether you wish to transfer to another program or apply to a new program after
graduation, Conestoga has established pathways to help you meet your goals. Conestoga Pathways
information is available on Conestoga’s website.
Employment Opportunities
This program will prepare graduates with the knowledge and authentic experience necessary for them to
enter confidently into the Canadian healthcare workforce. Equip yourself with the capabilities to work as
a nurse in the areas of long-term care, community-based care and general internal medicine.
For more details on related occupations, job market information and career opportunities, see the
Government of Canada website.
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2. Relationships
Communication and Contact Information
Faculty Directory
Kim Myre, Program Assistant
kmyre@conestogac.on.ca
ext. 3445
Sharon Chia, Coordinator
schia@conestogac.on.ca
ext. 2486
Michelle Heyer, Associate Chair,
Post-Graduate Nursing
mheyer@conestogac.on.ca
ext. 2503
Don Wildfong, Chair,
Continuing Education
dwildfong@conestogac.on.ca ext. 3242
In addition to the above, there are many part-time Nursing Faculty who will provide contact information
at the beginning of every course.
Contacting Program Staff
When contacting program staff outside of class time it is advisable to use e-mail or voicemail. Your message
should include the following information:
• first and last name
• course and level
• brief description of reason for contact
• telephone number where you can be reached
Once you have registered for your first course, you will be issued a Conestoga College e-mail address. All
College communication between yourself and College staff including your instructors, coordinator and
program assistant is to be conducted using your College e-mail address.
Faculty Availability
a. Procedures to Reduce Wandering of Students into Faculty & Staff Work Spaces
Telephones for internal use are located outside the entry to faculty workspaces on 4B. Beside these
phones will be a faculty directory with extension numbers only.
If you have an appointment with a faculty member, please call to confirm that you have arrived & please
do not enter until you have confirmation that the faculty member is at their pod. If you do not have an
appointment, please call the person you wish to meet with to confirm that they are present and can see
you; if you do not reach them, please leave a message. In the interest of respecting the work
environment for everyone in this area, please do not proceed into faculty work spaces looking for them.
b. Procedures for Dropping Off Assignments
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Enhanced professional practice – Gerontology and Chronic Illness Program Handbook 2015-2016
If arrangements have not been previously made with individual faculty, students are to drop off
assignments into the Drop Boxes outside the Faculty areas on 4B.
Student Engagement
Student Concerns/Issues
We appreciate that concerns/issues may arise during the learning experience. Our goal is to collaborate –
students with faculty and staff —to resolve situations of concerns quickly and to learn and improve from
these situations.
To achieve this goal, we need an effective problem-solving environment. This means:
a. When a situation of concern arises, it needs to be raised immediately and discussed by the
individuals involved. This is the most important area for effective problem solving.
**Problem-solving closest to the individual associated with the learning is the place to start.
b. Please see the “Student Concerns/Issues” section in the Student Rights and Responsibilities chapter
of the college Student Guide for further details to be followed for the informal and formal procedures
for the resolution of concerns and issues.
c. Please note that issues and concerns related to a placement site, its operation or its employees
should first be brought to the attention of the Conestoga Field Placement Supervisor, subject to the
additional procedures outlined in the following Sections on “Professionalism” and “Concerns
Regarding Safety or Care/Service for Clients during a Practicum/Field Placement”.
Student Representation
CSI and Conestoga agree that a student has the right to invite a member of CSI to a student/faculty
meeting, provided that 24 hours advance notice is given to faculty. This advance notice will ensure that all
parties will have an opportunity to adequately prepare for the meeting.
PAC (Program Advisory Committee)
Each program at Conestoga has a Program Advisory Committee (PAC), which is made up of industry and
academic representatives, as well as current students. They meet several times a year to discuss the
direction in which that industry is heading and any improvements that can be made to keep the program
current. This helps to ensure that students are learning material that is relevant to their industry.
At the beginning of each year, the coordinator of the program will ask for student volunteers. The
coordinator will decide which students will represent years one and two. The student representatives are
expected to attend the meetings. Students must prepare and submit a report based on guidelines
provided by the Program Chair/Coordinator which will be presented at the meeting. Students are
expected to be professional, dress in business attire and engage in discussions.
WIHSC (Waterloo Inter-professional Health & Community Student Collaborative)
Conestoga College offers many unique and exciting opportunities for personal and professional growth.
One of the things that contribute to the excellence of this college is the host of exciting extra-curricular
opportunities that add to the culture of this fine institution. WIHSC (Waterloo Interprofessional Health &
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Community Student Collaborative) is one such club whose members strive to ‘learn with, from, and
about’ each other.
Membership of this active group is comprised of students enrolled in health, community, and social
sciences programs at the Doon campus. Some of the most popular initiatives that this group regularly
engages in are interactive simulation exercises, peer-mentoring, guest speakers, paper case studies and
monthly meetings. To find out more about this exciting opportunity, please visit the WIHSC website. The
website includes information on past events (pictures and videos) as well as how to get involved. Get
involved, have fun, and learn more about the team members you will work with upon graduation. For
more information, please contact your Program Coordinator.
Student Feedback
Student feedback is an essential component of our continuous improvement process. Our opportunities
for student feedback include:
Key Performance Indicators
All college programs in the province are evaluated using Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) through the
Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. This survey is conducted each academic year. Strategic
goals to improve the programs are developed from these results. This data and other data specific to the
campus and the program/school are collected so that Conestoga College can continually improve quality.
Student Appraisal of Teaching
The Student Appraisal of Teaching (SAT) allows direct feedback from students on teaching for a particular
course. Completion of the SAT form gives teachers and academic managers valuable information, to use
for improving teaching at Conestoga.
The SAT process occurs at semester-end. One quarter of the faculty is appraised per term, and each has
two courses selected by their academic managers for appraisal. All teachers have a SAT review at least
once every two years. Students complete either an electronic or paper copy of the SAT. A summary of
results is prepared by Institutional Research.
The report is sent to the Academic Manager who shares the report with the faculty member AFTER all
marks for the semester have been collected. Continuing Education students may have an opportunity to
complete a SAT form at the conclusion of each Continuing Education course.
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Class Cancellations
Class Cancellation due to Faculty Absence
All class cancellations due to faculty absences will be posted in the Student Portal on the left hand side of
first page which a student sees after logging in. These notices in the Student Portal will be the only
general notifications of class cancellations due to faculty absences. Faculty who will be absent will not be
informing students of class cancellations through the eConestoga Learning Management System.
Class Cancellations due to Inclement Weather
College closure due to inclement weather will be announced on local radio stations (92.9; 88.3; 1460;
96.7, 105.3, and 1240). It is up to Associate Faculty and students to listen for campus closures. If the
college is closed a message will be left on the campus switchboard after office hours. A notice will also be
placed on the college website.
Personal notifications of class cancellations
Students have the option of receiving special emails or SMS text messages notifying them of class
cancellations due to faculty absences. To receive such personal notifications students must subscribe to
this special service.
To subscribe:
- Log in to the Student Portal
- Select Notifications under the Profile tab
- Select the method by which you would like to be notified
- Click Update.
Note: To change the email address to which these notifications will be sent, select My Addresses under
the Profile Tab, and change the default email address.
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3. Standards of Conduct and Professional Practice
Program Standards
Internationally educated nurses enrolled in the Enhanced professional practice Program at Conestoga
College, who are transitioning to nursing practice in Canada, need to know about the special policies and
standards that must be followed to guide actions and behaviors in relationships with other learners,
faculty, and patients. First, learners are expected to act in accordance with the policies developed by
Conestoga College which include:
• Academic Regulations and Policies
• Human Rights
• Students’ Rights and Responsibilities
• Academic Integrity
These policies are accessible in the Conestoga College Student Guide
In addition to the policies of Conestoga College, learners in the Enhanced professional practice Program
are responsible for acting in a way that reflects the nursing professional standards mandated by the
College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO). The CNO is the governing body for registered nurses (RNs),
registered practical nurses (RPNs) and nurse practitioners (NPs) in Ontario. Based on legislation from the
Regulated Health Professions Act and the Nursing Act (College of Nurses of Ontario, 2014a; 2014b), the
CNO Professional Standards (2009) “are expectations that contribute to public protection. They inform
nurses of their accountabilities and the public of what to expect of nurses. [The] standards apply to all
nurses regardless of their role, job description or area of practice” (p. 3). The CNO Professional Standards
include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
being accountable for one’s nursing practice;
maintaining and continuing competence;
upholding and promoting values and beliefs according to the CNO Ethical Standards with regard to
client well-being, client choice, privacy and confidentiality, respect for life, maintaining
commitments, truthfulness, and fairness;
acquiring current and relevant knowledge and appropriately applying that knowledge in clinical
practice;
demonstrating leadership in providing and promoting the best possible care to clients; and
ensuring therapeutic nurse-client relationships and professional relationships with colleagues
As learners preparing for professional nursing practice in Canada, it is imperative that your actions reflect
the professional and ethical standards embraced by nurses in Canada in order to provide safe,
competent, and ethical care. Similarly, all learners at Conestoga College are responsible for facilitating a
safe and healthy learning environment. Therefore, if a learner’s behavior or conduct interferes with the
learning process or in any way jeopardizes the safe environment of the classroom or professional practice
setting, then the learner may be required to leave the classroom or professional practice setting at the
discretion of the nursing faculty teacher.
Nursing faculty and learners in the Enhanced professional practice program work in partnership at
Conestoga College. Your nursing faculty are RNs, RPNs, or NPs which means they are also accountable to
uphold the professional and ethical standards set out by the College of Nurses of Ontario. As such,
nursing faculty in the educator role abide by the CNO (2009b) expectations by supporting learners,
facilitating learning opportunities, and evaluating learning to assist the acquisition of the knowledge,
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skills, and judgement needed for providing safe, competent, and ethical care for nursing practice in the
Canadian health care system.
Please feel comfortable to ask your faculty about any doubts or uncertainties you have after having
reviewed the information summarized above. It is vital that you have a clear understanding about your
role as a learner at Conestoga College and as a RN-learner in the professional practice setting as you
transition to nursing practice in Canada.
References
The College of Nurses of Ontario. (2009a). Practice standard: professional standards (Revised, 2009).
Toronto, ON: Author. Retrieved from http://www.cno.org/Global/docs/prac/41006_ProfStds.pdf
The College of Nurses of Ontario. (2009b). Practice guideline: supporting learners. Toronto, ON: Author.
Retrieved from http://www.cno.org/Global/docs/prac/44034_SupportLearners.pdf.
The College of Nurses of Ontario. (2014a). Fact sheet: legislation and regulation – an introduction to the
Nursing Act, 1991. Toronto, ON: Author. Retrieved from
http://www.cno.org/Global/docs/prac/41064_fsNursingact.pdf.
The College of Nurses of Ontario. (2014b). Reference document: legislation and regulation – RHPA: scope
of practice, controlled acts model. Toronto, ON: Author. Retrieved from
http://www.cno.org/Global/docs/policy/41052_RHPAscope.pdf.
Nursing Competencies and Standards
College of Nurses Professional Standards
The Professional standards provide an overall framework for the practice of nursing. In addition to
professional standards the College of Nurses of Ontario provides practice standards for many aspects of
the provision of care. It is each nurse’s responsibility, including students, to utilize these guidelines in
their decision making process.
Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities (MTCU)
MTCU sets program standards which must be met by each practical nursing program in the province of
Ontario. The College must submit program designs for approval to ensure quality and consistency.
These standards comply with other regulations set by the College of Nurses of Ontario.
Assessment Strategies Inc (ASI)
ASI is responsible for establishing registration examination outcomes based on the College of Nurses of
Ontario entry to practice competencies. As the student, you should be aware of these outcomes.
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RNAO Best Practice Guidelines
Best Practice Guidelines are evidence informed guidelines for many aspects of nursing care. Each nurse
(and student) is individually responsible for ensuring their care adheres to Best Practice Guidelines.
Gerontological Nursing Competencies and Standards of Practice 2010
The Gerontological Nursing Competencies and Standards of Practice describe the appropriate therapeutic
interventions or activities of the nurse which facilitate client health behavior directed towards promotion,
prevention, maintenance, rehabilitation or palliation.
Feedback from Our Learners
We value your input with each and every course in your part time program. At the end of each course, all
learners will be given a green evaluation form (Student Appraisal of Teaching and Student Appraisal of
Course) to complete and then submit in the covering white envelope. The content of each evaluation
form is reviewed by the leadership team and feedback is given to the individual teachers and program
delivery team.
The feedback we receive is valuable to future program planning and success of both the Enhanced
professional practice Programs and individual learner success.
Code of Behaviour
Students are expected to behave in accordance with College policies in regard to behavior. These policies
include:
 Academic Regulations and Policies
 Human Rights
 Students’ Rights and Responsibilities
These are available through the Conestoga College Student Guide as well as on the website. As a future
practitioner, you will be responsible for ensuring that your practice and conduct meet legislative
requirements and the standards of the Nursing profession.
Each Student:
 Is accountable and responsible for his or her own actions
 Has the knowledge, skill and judgment needed to practice in her or his setting while striving to
improve the knowledge, skill and judgment needed to practice in specialized settings.
 Ensures practice is consistent with current legislation and the standards of practice as defined by
the College of Nurses of Ontario
Students are expected to work in partnership with their Professor/Clinical Teachers who as Nurses in an
Educator role:
 Provide learning opportunities for the practical nursing student to enable them to acquire the
knowledge, skills and clinical experience needed to practice;
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
Evaluate the practical nursing student’s ability to meet the required learning outcomes for each
course experience.
As students preparing to become health care professionals, it is imperative that your behavior and
attitudes reflect the professional, ethical standards that are embraced by your chosen profession. We
believe that a value system incorporating high moral and ethical integrity is of vital importance, and
regard the absence of such values as critical and dangerous to practice. We believe integrity to be a
quality that includes sound moral principles, sincerity, honesty and self-respect.
The College of Nurses of Ontario Guidelines for Professional Behavior state:
“Nurses have a duty to participate in and promote the growth of the profession, and to conduct
themselves in a manner which is becoming to the profession.”
Nurses need to care for one another and respect their colleagues. They need to work collaboratively with
other nurses, trust in the expertise of one another, and refer to others when they do not have the
necessary knowledge and expertise themselves;
A nurse needs to:
 Contribute to positive team functioning and supporting colleagues;
 Conduct oneself in a way which promotes respect for the profession;
 Cooperate with regulatory functions.
If a student's behavior/conduct interferes with the learning process or in any way jeopardizes the safe
environment of the classroom or clinical setting, the student will be required to leave the class or clinical
session.
Cowan Health Sciences Centre Clinical Lab Dress Code for All Students
The Clinical Lab areas of the Cowan Health Sciences Centre (CHSC) are comprised of clinical bed labs, the
Cross Centre for the Advancement of Patient Care Simulation and the Open Access Lab. In order to
maintain these as safe professional spaces, appropriate dress must be worn. The purpose of this dress
code is to ensure the safety of the student, faculty and staff and also to prepare for the clinical
environment. The dress code is designed to comply with infection control procedures, workplace health
and safety considerations and professional safety.
All clinical Lab areas are covered by this policy for all programs in the School of Health, Life Sciences and
Community Services. Non-compliance with this dress code will result in the person being asked to leave
the lab area. (If during scheduled lab time, this may result in a missed lab, which will require the learner
to complete this time independently)
Dress Requirements
• Lab coat, scrubs or clinical dress as set forth by the program (should be neat and clean)
o Note: the Centre for Advanced Patient Care Simulation requires full clinical uniform to be
worn. i.e. Family of Nursing/RT: scrubs, Paramedic/Pre-Service Fire: uniform
• Closed toe, closed heel shoes
• Hair tied back, if hair is long, then it must be up
• No rings, necklaces or dangling earrings
o A pair of studs may be worn; one in each ear
o A plain wedding band may be worn
• Nails should be kept neat and short; artificial nails and nail polish are not allowed
• No hats to be worn (exceptions related to the Human Rights Code)
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•
•
No denim or sweat pants
Nametags must be worn
Please be reminded that the labs are a clinical setting and, as such, the requirement for proper hand
washing/hygiene is in effect.
Uniforms and Grooming Guidelines
As a learner in the professional practice setting, clients and their families see you as a member of the health
care team. Your appearance can inspire confidence in your ability to care for them. Neatness, cleanliness,
conservative makeup, jewelry, and safety considerations all help to convey competence, commitment, and
professionalism. It is your responsibility to maintain this appearance. In addition, learners are required to
follow specific hospital/agency policies regarding uniforms and grooming that may vary from Conestoga
policy. Learner uniforms must conform to the uniform policy of the institution in which learners are placed.
Please feel comfortable to ask your professor or clinical teacher if you have any doubts regarding the
uniform and grooming guidelines outlined below. It is very important that you have a clear understanding
of the requirements; at the discretion of the clinical teacher or professor, you may be asked to leave the
professional practice setting if your uniform or grooming is not consistent with Conestoga or institution
policy.
Uniform Regulations
 Full uniform must be worn in clinical areas and college simulation labs
 Conestoga College name tag must be worn at all times
 Bottom of the pant hemline must be sewn above the sole of the shoe
 Warm-up jackets or sweaters that coordinate with the uniform are acceptable, but must not be worn
during direct care
 Slips should be worn with skirts
 Undergarments must be worn, choice and style should not create a major contrast between body color
and uniform color
 Head coverings, if pre-approved, must be neutral
 If ¾ length shirts or t-shirts are to be worn under the uniform they must be black or grey
Dress Code for Agencies NOT Requiring Uniforms
 Conestoga College name tag must be worn at all times
 Conestoga identification must be worn and visible at all times in all clinical settings
 Identification must include first and last name and designation. Institutional Photo ID may also be
required, at the discretion of the institution
 Wear comfortable low-heeled shoes with closed toes and heels
 Street clothing should inspire confidence in your ability to care for the client in an appropriate manner
(remember this is not a social visit)
 The following are not appropriate for these settings: jeans, tights and leggings, sweat pants, tracksuits,
warm-up suits, collarless t-shirts, ankle socks with skirts, revealing necklines or short skirts.
Requests for accommodations of this regulation (e.g. for religious or disability reasons) will be considered
within the framework of the Conestoga College Policy for Human Rights.
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Faculty reserve the right to ask students who do not conform to the uniform policy to leave the clinical,
community or lab setting. Time missed must then be made up by the student and the process will be
negotiated with the faculty and clinical agency.
Footwear
Uniform shoes must be clean with closed toes and heels. The shoes worn with the uniform are not to be
worn outside of the agency. Clogs (wooden or other), and crocs are not acceptable footwear.
Identification
Conestoga identification must be worn and visible at all times in all clinical settings. Identification must
include first and last name and designation. Institutional Photo ID may also be required, at the discretion
of the institution.
Jewelry
Jewelry can be a source of bacteria and injury to students and clients. For these reasons the following
restrictions related to jewelry are necessary:
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



NO rings, other than plain wedding band
NO chains - necklaces or bracelets
NO facial or oral jewelry
Watches may be worn on the wrist or uniform except when giving direct care
One (1) pair of studs with no dangles only may be worn in the ears. Dangling earrings, spacers or
stretchers are not acceptable.
Hair
During nursing care it is important that hair not fall forward potentially contaminating clean/sterile areas.
For this reason, hair should be neat, clean and kept out of the eyes. If hair is long, it should be tied back
and secured with small, plain clips. Long pony tails should be secured up on the head, and not allowed to
dangle onto patient field of care. Hair color must be of a natural shade (i.e. no green, blue, etc.). Students
must be clean shaven or have neatly trimmed beards and/or mustaches.
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Personal Hygiene
Students are expected to meet hygiene requirements during class, lab and practicum hours.
•
•
•
•
•
Maintain personal cleanliness by bathing daily
Oral hygiene (brushing of teeth) required
Use deodorant / anti-perspirant to minimize body odors
No heavily scented perfumes, colognes and lotions. These can cause allergic reactions, migraines
and respiratory difficulty for those participating in class, lab and practicums
Wash hands after eating and using the restrooms
Fingernails
 Nails should be kept short, not past the fingertip, and clean.
 Nail polish, nail jewelry, acrylic or artificial nails are not permitted.
Smoking
Smoking in the hospital setting is against the law and may be subject to fine. As health care workers you
need to promote a healthy lifestyle. At times clients refuse treatment from nurses who have been
smoking.
Chewing Gum
Chewing gum is not allowed in clinical, lab or community settings.
Food and Beverages
Food and Beverages in the hospital setting are allowed in designated areas only (cafeteria, staff lounge
areas).
Cellphones/Smartphones
Cellphones and/or smartphones for personal use are not permitted in the clinical setting/lab and
community agencies.
Transportation of Uniform to and from Clinical Settings
 It is important that your uniform be clean when arriving on the unit and that a soiled uniform (that
is, one that has been worn for client care) not be worn in a public place. Uniform shoes are NOT to
be worn outside of the agency.

It is the responsibility of the student to find out from each new Professor /Clinical Teacher the
particular agency policy regarding wearing the uniform to and from the agency setting.

In hospitals that allow uniforms to be worn to and from work, the student must ensure that the
uniform is covered when outside of the hospital (e.g. with a knee-length coat) and that the student
is traveling directly between the hospital and home.
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
In hospitals that require the student to change at the hospital, the students will wear street clothes
to the hospital and when returning home. The uniform is to be kept in a protective covering during
transit.
Academic Integrity and Plagiarism
Academic honesty is expected and required of all Conestoga students. In order to maximize your success
as a student, it is critical that you familiarize yourself with the Academic Integrity Policy found in the
Conestoga Student Guide. This guide has been provided to you during orientation and is available on the
college website. The Academic Integrity Policy provides a detailed description of the following:
• Scope of academic integrity,
• What academic integrity means,
• What types of behaviours constitute a breach of academic integrity,
• The penalties associated with breaching academic integrity.
After reading this information, if you do not fully understand what is meant by academic integrity, and
what is required of you to maintain academic integrity, please speak with a faculty member or your
program coordinator. Please note that maintaining academic integrity is very serious, and that it is your
responsibility as a Conestoga student to know the Academic Integrity Policy and to initiate help if you do
not fully understand it.
Below are a few hints to help you avoid breaching academic integrity. Make sure that you recognize
information that requires referencing.
Example
Milk is good for you.
“According to Health Canada milk beverages
provide the nutrients needed for healthy bones
and optimal health”.
Health Canada. (2008). Canada’s food guide:
Milk and alternatives. Retrieved May 17, 2011
from http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fn-an/foodguide-aliment/choose-choix/milk-lait/indexeng.php
Consuming milk every day provides the nutrients
that you need for healthy bones and optimal
health.
Health Canada. (2008). Canada’s food guide:
Milk and alternatives. Retrieved May 17, 2011
from http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fn-an/foodguide-aliment/choose-choix/milk-lait/indexeng.php
•
Required Referencing
General information in the public domain.
Does not require referencing.
Direct quote right from a published
source. Requires a reference.
Information that has been put into your
own words, but offers information outside
of public domain related with specialized
knowledge. Requires a reference.
Whenever you refer to material from another source, whether book, journal article, video,
newspaper, or electronic publications, you must acknowledge your source using proper citations
and references. The APA style is the format most often used in the health and social sciences.
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Please visit the Conestoga Learning Commons for assistance with the APA format, or visit their
website for help.
•
If you work collaboratively with others on an assignment, including in class assignments that
expect independent submission, make sure that you do not copy words or ideas from others
intentionally or by accident.
•
Make sure that you read the Academic Integrity Policy located in the Conestoga Student Guide,
and that you fully understand it. The policy describes additional behaviours that represent a
breach of academic integrity.
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Copyright – What Students Need to Know
Photocopying and scanning at Conestoga are governed by the Copyright Act, an agreement with Access
Copyright, and the Association of Canadian Community Colleges’ Fair Dealing Policy.
Under the terms of our Access Copyright license which gives the broadest permission:
You can photocopy or scan the following:
• Up to 10% of most published works
• One chapter that is greater than 10%, but no more than 20% of the book
• One article, short story, play, poem or essay from a book, magazine or journal issue containing
other works
• One newspaper article or page
• One entry from an encyclopedia, dictionary, annotated bibliography or similar reference work
• One drawing, sculpture, painting, print, architectural work of art or work of artistic craftsmanship
from a larger volume containing other works.
Cumulative Copying
If you copy 10% of a book today, 10% next week, 10% the week after that, and so on, this is called
cumulative copying and it is not allowed. The copy limits apply to an entire academic year, so once you
reach the limit for an item, you can’t copy more until the next academic year.
You cannot copy or scan the following:
• Workbooks or study guides that are intended for one-time use
• Instruction manuals
• Sheet music and original artistic works including photographs or prints
• Advertisements
• Business cases
• Any of the items on the Access Copyright Exclusions list
You can find all of this information and more on the Copyright for Students web page.
If you have any questions about copyright or the limits of copying on campus, contact Tessa Dueck,
Copyright Technician, at tdueck@conestogac.on.ca or 519-748-5220 ext. 3604.
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Safe Practice
Safe practice is part of professional practice. It is an expectation of everyone who is or wants to be a
professional.
There are a number of policies and procedures associated with practical training in your program that
have been developed to ensure your safety and the safety (physical and emotional) of those around you.
These will be reviewed with you during your program.
The following basic procedures are outlined for your attention and follow-through:
1. Your personal safety begins with the use of professional attire and foot wear and with your
attention to the health and safety expectations that may be identified throughout the College.
2. Help us have a safe and pleasant environment by wiping up spills, by ensuring lap top cords do not
snake across walking areas and by reporting equipment or facility problems when you see them.
a. Concerns such as these in the Cowan Health Sciences Center may be reported to the
Customer Service Desk in the Cowan Health Sciences Center.
3. Specific dress codes, personal protective equipment and specific codes of behavioural conduct
may apply to certain programs; failure to follow these may result in your inability to participate in
a lab, class or experiential learning activity.
4. Safe work practices are to be followed during all training; follow the direction of your instructors.
If you have a practicum, your Placement supervisor will ensure that you are aware of safe
practices and safety precautions and procedures. This includes problem-solving by the
Responsible Faculty, Staff and Program Coordinator with the College’s Occupational Health &
Safety Department as required. For example, should outside temperatures during the summer
become unusually hot, very high temperatures may occur in some workplaces; this could require
that specific steps be taken to ensure a safe working environment.
5. All safety-related accidents, incidents, and near misses must be reported to the Conestoga College
Responsible Person-in-Charge immediately. This is an opportunity to problem-solve about how to
avoid these areas of concern for the future.
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Professional Conduct - Use of Social Media and Cell Phones
To ensure a quality and respectful learning environment both in the classroom and in field placement, the
use of cell phones and laptop computers for social networking can only be used during break times,
before/after class and outside of children’s play areas (indoors/outdoors) in field placement.
Laptops and other forms of technology can be used in the classroom when the use pertains to the
content and processes of learning facilitated by the Team Member. Faculty/staff reserve the right to
remove and hold any technology device that is a disruption to the class until the end of class.
Social Media Policy
•
•
Social media has many advantages for a professional. It can be used to network, to resource
information and keep current
As a student and future professional, it is essential to maintain professional boundaries in all
communication, including social media.
BE AWARE:
• “Electronic messages are not anonymous. They can be tracked, misdirected, manipulated and live
forever on the internet. Social media sites create and archive copies of every piece of content
posted, even when deleted from online profiles. Once information is digitalized, the author
relinquishes all control.”
“Online identities and actions are visible to the public and can result in serious repercussions or
embarrassment. As the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Ontario notes, users may intend to
share their online existence solely within their own network, but in theory anyone can access the
user’s musings, photos and information. Further, the words can be altered, forwarded and
misquoted. 1
Ensure that your posts reflect you as the professional you are and wish to become – if a potential
employer were to see your posts.
1. Many types of social media encourage instantaneous, casual dialogue. It is important to
remember that even an innocent comment may be easily misunderstood
2. Assume that information you post or send can be accessed or altered by anyone.
3. Consider whether any posting may reflect poorly on you, your school, or your profession.
4. Avoid online criticism about other students, colleagues, professors or field placements.
5. Avoid impulsive, inappropriate or heated comments.
6. Pictures should not be taken, posted to social media sites or shared without the express
permission of all individuals involved.
7. Remember that online sites you visit are not anonymous.
8. Make sure your online name and email reflect professionalism.
9. Ensure that your postings will not be considered harassment or defamation of a peer, colleague,
faculty or others.
Maintain privacy of all care and service activities when in practical work experiences:
1
Professional Advisory. 2011. Use of Electronic Communication and Social Media. The Council of the Ontario College of Teachers.
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1. Do not take or post any pictures while on placement or involved in lab activities
2. Maintain client-provider relationships and boundaries. The addition of a client to a ”friendship”
status online is unacceptable.
Please respect the fact that your faculty and staff will not invite you to their personal web pages when
you are a current student (Keep faculty and staff as resources to connect with after you have graduated
or after you have left the college)
Cell Phone Policy
Students should respect their professors, staff and other instructors by following program policy and not
use their cell phones for personal use during class time. This is representative of the professional manner
in which you are expected to act as you prepare to enter the workforce.
Students should refrain from bringing their cell phone into a test or examination. Phones should be left in
your locker or left in your bag at the front of the classroom. In the event of an urgent need to keep your
cell phone with you during a test (parents with young children, students experiencing a family
emergency, etc.) please speak to your professor/Team Member as soon as you enter the examination
room. Those who have been permitted to bring a phone into the classroom will likely be asked to either
leave the phone with the professor, or they may be permitted to leave their phone out on their desk
where it is visible to the professor and proctors. In any case, students are not permitted to touch or
answer the phone without raising their hand to ask for the professor/proctor’s permission. If you are
found to have a cell phone in your possession during an examination that has not been declared, you will
be asked to leave the examination room, and will be given a zero on the assessment.
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Cowan Health Sciences Centre Policies
Clinical Lab Areas: 1F26, 2F06, 2F10, 3F35, 3F36, 3F38, 3F40, 3F45, 3F46, 1F14 A/B
Open Access Lab: 2F18
Centre for Advanced Patient Care Simulation: 2F30, 2F50, 2F34, 2F46
Human Resources
The Nurse Technologists act as a resource in introducing users to the Clinical Learning Centre, maintaining
the centre environment/supplies, and assisting students practicing skills related to client care. The Nurse
Technologists are also available to any student requiring remedial skills assistance.
Conestoga College is committed to establishing and maintaining a healthy and safe work and study
environment. Throughout your course of study your teacher will guide you through the use of safe work
practices. It is the student's responsibility to follow guidelines for safety once they have been taught.
Accessing the Clinical Labs
1. Procedures for booking Lab practice during normal hours
Booking practice time/and or materials may be done in person with one of the Nurse Technologists or
by telephone (519) 748 5220 ext. 3457 at the Doon campus.
2. Procedure for booking after-hours and weekend Lab practice
It is preferred that the booking be done at least 24 hours in advance.
Contact one of the nurse technologists to book the time. The following information will need to be
provided to the technologist:
a.
b.
Day, time and duration of practice
Full names of all persons in attendance
i.
This allows the CHSC team to notify security appropriately
ii.
You must have at least one other person (in the program) with you for this practice
iii.
Persons outside the programs in the School of Health and Life Sciences and
Community Services will not be admitted to the Open Access Lab
iv.
Appropriate lab attire must be worn while in the Open Access
On the day of practice, please check in with Security with your Conestoga ID. Security will unlock the lab.
When you are finished practicing please contact Security to have them lock the door. You will not be
allowed to use the medication cart during unsupervised practice.
All students must leave the lab by 2200 hours.
THE CENTRE MUST NOT BE LEFT UNATTENTDED DURING AFTER-HOUR USE.
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User Responsibility Regarding Maintenance:
Supplies for injection practice will be available ONLY during regular lab hours.
All users will maintain the environment in a safe, clean and tidy manner:
- All equipment must be cleaned, re-stocked and re-wrapped as necessary.
- Beds in low position, neatly made, furniture positioned appropriately.
- Handle mannequins carefully.
All materials borrowed by teachers and students for use outside the Clinical Learning Centre must be signed
for and returned to the centre in good condition within the specified time.
Purses, coats, knapsacks, wet shoes and extra books are not to be brought into the CHSC.
Students are responsible for the replacement of damaged or lost equipment in Clinical Learning Centre or
community agencies e.g. student dropping IVAC thermometer.
Acknowledgement of Privacy
Confidentiality: Confidentiality: The Personal Health Information Protection Act (2004) states that patients
have the right to privacy of information. Only persons directly involved in their care are allowed access to
their personal data. It cannot be shared with anyone else. Students must be careful not to use patient
names outside of the care area or discuss client cases in a public setting because others may overhear,
leading to a breach in confidentiality. Most agencies will require nurses to sign a confidentiality form
acknowledging awareness of this right to be maintained. If a learner is discovered to breach a client’s
confidentiality, he/she will be reported and could be prosecuted under the law.
Disclosure of Student Information: The College may, from time to time, request student pictures for media
and promotion purposes. Written consent will be requested. Refusal to participate will not create a
concern related to progress in the program.
Release of Student Information: Students may wish to have their scholastic information sent to a
prospective employer or another educational institution. They must sign a release form before the College
is able to send out the requested information, thus preserving the students’ right to privacy. (See Consent
for Disclosure of Student Information in Appendix)
You are now attending a post-secondary educational institute and are considered an adult learner. As such,
information about your academic achievements, health care or educational concerns will only be discussed
with you personally. Your faculty will not discuss your progress with your parents or spouse unless you have
given us written permission. We expect you to be responsible for your own problems and resolve them on
your own. Your faculty are here to support you and you can approach any professor or coordinator for
assistance as needed.
Please discuss this with your family so they are aware of the changes expected in your responsibilities
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Treatment for Punctured Wounds
a. Any student Nurse receiving a puncture wound from a needle or sharp instrument must report the
incident to his/her Professor/Clinical Teacher immediately. If the occurrence occurs between 07001500 – report occurrence to teacher and go to the agency Employee Health Office. Blood must be
drawn by Lab and student is to complete Conestoga College Occupational Health and Safety form –
Workplace Injury Form. If the occurrence happens between 1500-0700 – Follow agency procedure.
Go to Emergency Department if in a Hospital or if in another agency have lab draw blood for Hep B,
Hep C and HIV from the student and the client. For Source Blood (client) – Hep B surface antigen
IgA (determines if client is a carrier), Hep C and HIV, must obtain consent from client. Blood samples
to be labelled URGENT and sent to lab. Complete Conestoga College Occupational Health and Safety
form for the workplace injury, inform teacher immediately via email and phone (leave voice mail
message). Due to the privacy act, the student must have the results called to them and the student
is to follow up by reporting the results to their teacher and to the Conestoga College Occupational
Health and Safety Officer.
b. The next step is to complete an Incident Report Form, which should be located on the nursing unit.
Outline the source of contamination, and, if the contact is with a patient, indicate the name, age,
and patient’s diagnosis and hospital room number on the form.
c. Complete an “Employee Incident Report”. These forms are located in every nursing unit. Please
indicate on this form that you are a nursing student from Conestoga Institute of Technology and
Advanced Learning.
First Aid Procedure should include:
i. Induce bleeding to cleanse the wound
ii. Clean wound with antiseptic
iii. Apply dressing
iv.
Check Tetanus status
v.
Follow Hepatitis B and HIV Exposure Protocol.
If you are given Immune Globulin (I.G.) or Hepatitis B Immune Globulin (H-BIG) as a preventative measure,
the cost will be covered by OHIP, or by the Hospital.
Please discuss this matter with your Professor/Clinical Teacher, immediately.
Finally, notify the following persons:
i. Health Nurse (ext. – 3254). Send the health nurse a copy of the Incident Report, after treatment
has been given.
ii. Family Physician - to review treatment you received in Hospital and for further follow-up.
iii. Coordinator
Herpes Simplex Protocol
a. Students with oral lesions such as cold sores must wear gloves when touching patients and cover
the lesions with a dressing or by wearing a mask until lesions are healed.
b. They should also wash hands after removing gloves.
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Student Protection Acknowledgement
A Student Protection Acknowledge confirmation pop-up will appear once an applicant/student logs into
the Student Portal. A PDF directs students to policies and procedures relevant to their academic
responsibilities. Policies and procedures are searchable on Conestoga’s website. Students are advised to
review and comply with all policies and procedures including the following:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Academic Dispute and Resolution Policy/Procedure
Academic Integrity Policy
Academic Recognition Policy
Academic Credential Procedure
Clearance of Academic Deficiency Policy/Procedure
Co-operative Education Policy
Discontinuance Policy/Procedure
Eligibility to Participate in Co-op Work Terms Policy/Procedure
Evaluation of Student Learning Policy/Procedure
Grading Procedure
Graduation Requirements and Convocation Procedure
Honours Policy/Procedure
Program/Course (Cohort) Withdrawal Procedure
Student Concerns and Issues/Procedure
Student Fees Policy
Student Feedback Policy
Violation of Academic Integrity Procedure
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4. Attendance and Student Success Strategies
Attendance
In view of the learning complexities of the Enhanced professional practice –GCI Program, it is imperative
that students attend classroom, lab, clinical, and community experiences as scheduled. The curricula in
the Health Science Programs are competency-based with defined learning outcomes, which place a great
deal of emphasis on the minimum theoretical and practical competencies required to enter the
profession. Therefore, students who are absent from class, lab, clinical, and community experiences place
themselves in academic jeopardy in meeting the learning outcomes as stipulated by the Program. It is the
student’s responsibility to complete missed work if an absence is unavoidable.
Please be sure to contact your professor or clinical teacher prior to your absence to negotiate and plan
for how you will complete the missed work. If it is not possible to contact your professor or clinical
teacher prior to your absence, then please do so at your earliest convenience.
Punctuality
Students are expected to arrive on time for classroom, lab, clinical, and community experiences.
Repeated late arrivals may result in the student being denied access to the class or clinical experience, an
interview record will be initiated.
Clinical Practice Attendance
Attendance at Clinical Practice and college laboratories is mandatory.
During clinical placement, students are to remain on the agency premises, Leaving the agency during an
assigned shift could constitute abandonment of the client.
Absence verification may be required upon return from maternity/extended illness/injury. Permission from
the student’s physician to return to school may be requested.
Attendance will be carefully monitored throughout the program. Make up time may be required.
Cumulative absent clinical time will dictate the amount of time to be made up.
Absenteeism will affect the successful completion of Clinical Practice.
When students must be absent from the College laboratory or Clinical Practice, the student must notify the
Professor/Clinical Teacher at least one (1) hour in advance of the appointed time.
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Attendance for Evaluations
An evaluation is defined as a test, exam, presentation or any other formal assessment that requires your
presence in a class or lab. Evaluations are critical components of each course and overall success for you
in your Program.
The School’s approach to requirements for attendance at evaluations reflects the expectation that as
emerging professionals, students must demonstrate a professional attitude and attention to evaluations,
in the same manner that expectations for future work as professional will require attention to workplace
procedures. Consequences for missed evaluations are balanced against reasonable support where it is
warranted.
In order to support student success:
• Evaluation and presentation dates are scheduled and communicated at the beginning of each
semester.
• Unplanned extenuating circumstances involving the college, the program or the faculty that may
require changes to the course schedule will be communicated to students.
In support of the development of professionalism, students are required to take all evaluations at the
scheduled times.
• Students who make personal commitments that conflict with the evaluation dates or assignment
deadlines do so at their own risk.
• There will be no special arrangements made for students with personal conflicts (e.g. work, family
commitments or vacation plans).
• Academic accommodations are provided to students with documented disabilities through the
Accessibility Office.
The following procedure sets out expectations and implications should you miss an evaluation:
Notification for Absence from Evaluations
•
•
•
Students are required to notify the program of absence from any evaluation for any reason.
Notification must be received prior to the start of the evaluation.
Failure to do so will result in a mark of zero being assigned.
Notification procedure
Log into the Student Portal and click on the Absence tab and indicate that you will be absent from class
on a day that has an Evaluation. You will receive a confirmation email that you have recorded your
absence for that day.
Note:
• Your professor/Team Member will be aware of your absence from an evaluation by your lack of
attendance and because you have entered your absence using the online Absence Recording
System on the Student Portal.
•
The Absence Recording System shows you as being absent for the day, starting from the time that
you record your absence. (For example if you record your absence for that day at 11.00 a.m. the
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system will show you as being absent for all classes starting after 11.00 a.m. that day.) If you are
then going to be present again for some later class, you will need to bring your presence to the
attention of your Professor/Team Member in that later class.)
•
The earliest that you may record your absence for a particular day is after 8 p.m. on the preceding
day
Follow-up after Reporting Your Absence from an Evaluation
You must make contact immediately with Program Team Member to explain the reasons for your
absence and to arrange a meeting.
• If there is a concerning pattern of absence you will be asked to meet with the program
coordinator. This may result in the need for you to provide documentation verifying the reason for
your absence, in accordance with the requirements specified in sections below titled “Evaluations
worth 20% or more” and “Evaluations worth less than 20%”
• Faculty will then make alternative evaluation arrangements as appropriate and you will complete
any necessary forms.
• Students are required to complete the alternative evaluation as scheduled.
• If the evaluation is to be conducted in the testing center, you will be asked to show your student
card before you are permitted to write the test.
• Tests will be made up In the College Testing Centre in the following week, or by individual
arrangements with program faculty.
Religious Holidays
Students are permitted by Conestoga policy to be absent from class to observe a recognized religious
holiday. Any student who is unable to attend classes or participate in an examination, study, or work
requirement on some particular day or days because of religious beliefs will be given the opportunity to
make up the work that was missed or do alternate work/examinations subject to timely notification.
Conestoga recognizes all religious holidays as defined by the College Employer Council
– see http://www.thecouncil.on.ca/articles/150
It is the responsibility of the student to:
a. Plan ahead and be aware of the dates of all examinations and other course obligations;
b. Advise the faculty member that he/she will be seeking accommodation to observe a recognized
religious holiday and make a request in writing to your Program Coordinator within the first 3
weeks of the semester and prior to the dare of assessment that falls on the religious holiday.
Exceptions based on extenuating circumstances must be approved by the Chair.
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Documentation to Substantiate Your Reported Absence
Evaluations worth less than 20%
Missed evaluations worth less than 20% of the student’s final grade will be rescheduled once per
program semester subject to proper communication described above.
Once per program semester means that only one absence for an evaluation will be accepted across all
courses in a program for a semester. Implications of major illnesses or personal circumstances impacting
several course evaluations at one time will require discussion with the program coordinator prior to
faculty/staff arranging alternative evaluations.
If an evaluation cannot be rescheduled (for example an experiential activity or participation in a group
presentation) reallocation of marks will be determined by faculty. This will be documented on an
interview record and signed off by both faculty/staff and student.
If more than one evaluation that is worth less than 20% is missed, documentation requirements for
evaluations worth 20% or more apply.
Evaluations worth 20% or more
Any student who misses an evaluation worth 20% or more will receive a mark of zero unless the reason
for missing the evaluation and the accompanying documentation verifying the reason for the absence are
deemed acceptable by the program. Examples of reasons deemed acceptable include incapacitating
illness, death of a close family member, and required court appearance.
NB: If an evaluation is missed due to illness, the health care professional attesting to the illness must have
firsthand knowledge of the situation and direct involvement with the treatment / management of the
condition. For example, a note from a clinic provided by a physician seeing the student for the first time,
after the illness has resolved, is unlikely to meet the program standard for documentation.
Acceptable reasons for Absence
1) Compassionate Leave: Requests for a Leave of Absence to attend to family illness, death or family
problems are granted. These requests will be submitted to the Professor who will consult with the
Program Co-ordinator and/or Chair if necessary. A Leave that impacts clinical experiences may affect
success in the semester.
2) Jury Duty: Any student who receives a summons for Jury Duty should bring the document to the
Chair to assess if it can be arranged to have the student excused if such duty interferes with the
progress in the program.
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Tests and Examination Procedures
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
Students must be punctual for a test or examination. Students who are late will not be given
extra time.
Students must present photo ID to sign-in for the test/examination. Students will not be
permitted to write the test/exam until photo ID is shown.
Students are to use their lockers and bring only what is necessary to the test/examination room. If
personal belongings, cell phones and other communication devices are brought to the exam
room, they must be placed at the front of the room. Students may not retrieve their items until
all students have finished writing. Coats and hats may not be worn.
Accommodations in the test/examination procedure are made by Disability Services for students,
as prescribed. No dictionary or any other accommodation will be made for students.
Be sure to follow the directions accurately for completion of the Parscore General Purpose
Answer Sheet. Students will be responsible for their own errors and the Parscore Answer Sheet
will NOT be hand-marked.
Before leaving, SUBMIT TEST/EXAMINATION MATERIALS, including test/examination booklet,
Parscore sheets and spoiled Parscore sheets. When returning these materials, only one examinee
at a time can be checked out; please be patient while waiting.
Test/examination marks are usually posted within two weeks from the date of writing. The final
examination results will be posted by the Friday of exam week. It is each student's personal
responsibility to obtain his/her own mark from the Student Portal.
Students are expected to attend all tests/examinations set by the program. A student who is absent
for a test because of illness will be required to present a certificate from a physician before a test
will be offered.
If circumstances result in a student being absent from a test/examination, the student must notify
the appropriate Theory Professor/Clinical Teacher via voice mail or E-mail message prior to the
designated test /examination time.
It is the responsibility of the student to contact the Professor regarding an opportunity to write the
test/examination. The test will be administered at the discretion of the professor/co-ordinator.
If proper notification to the Professor/Clinical Teacher of a student's inability to write a
test/examination at the designated time is not given, a grade of zero will be assigned for the
missed test.
Cheating on assignments, tests or examinations is incompatible with the
College of Nurses of Ontario (2009) Professional Standards. Students who are proven to
demonstrate this behaviour may be required to withdraw from the program. Penalties will be
assessed directly by the Chair.
Students will need to have HB lead pencils (sharpened), eraser, and pens – no other materials
including pencil cases, boxes of Kleenex (tissues), etc. will be allowed on the desk or tabletop.
Students will not be allowed to share materials i.e. eraser, pencils.
No late-arriving student may begin writing the test/examination after any student has left the
examination or test room. The course professor, in discussion with the Program Coordinator for the area,
will determine the course of action. Students who request to leave the examination/test room will not be
re-admitted.
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Methods of evaluation




written tests and examinations
presentations
written assignments
observation of performance
Types of evaluation
Two types of feedback are used to evaluate the student's clinical performance.
1. Formative: Formative evaluation is an ongoing process whereby the teacher and student collect
data during the learning phase of the student's practice. The teacher monitors the student's
progress toward achievement of the semester/program outcomes, and provides ongoing feedback
to the student on a regular basis.
2. Summative: This is the final evaluation at the end of the practice experience. Summative evaluation
is the documentation of the behaviours the student has mastered and the behaviours that the
student must improve or change. This evaluation should contain all the information that has been
shared with the student during the period of learning and should contain no surprises.
Sources of evaluations
Student reflections
Evaluation by teacher of student's practice performance
- Scheduled laboratory experiences
- Peer evaluation
- Clinical preceptors
Method of recording results of evaluation
1.
Transcripts, which include course credit hours and grades for each student,
are kept in the Registrar's Office.
2.
Formative and summative evaluations for practice experience are kept in
the School of Health and Life Sciences & Community Services in the student’s file.
Evaluation forms
Several forms are utilized to document a student's progress. The forms and their purpose are as follows:
1.
2.
Feedback Form: This is initiated by the student and completed in
collaboration with the practice teacher as the process for documenting
formative evaluation data/analysis of each of the student's practice experiences.
ACES (Achieving Clinical Excellence in Skills) – Completed to show a student’s competency of a skill.
The student must demonstrate a satisfactory level before performing tested skill in the clinical
agency. If unsuccessful after the first attempt, the student may have two more tries to become
successful. After the third failure, the student will be brought to Promotion Meeting. Student may
remain in the program and go to clinical, just unable to complete that skill.
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3.
Interview Record: This document will be completed at the discretion of the faculty, coordinators or
Program Chair when a student's practice and/or classroom performance or behaviour is:
a. of concern
b. unacceptable
c. unsatisfactory
The identified goals will indicate clearly to the student what action must be taken if he/she is to be successful
in the semester.
After viewing and signing of this form, a copy is:
- Given to the student
- Kept in the student’s file
Summative Evaluation:
This document is completed by both the student and the practice teacher at midterm and at the completion
of a semester as the process for documenting summative evaluation data/analysis of the student's practice
experiences over the semester.
The responsibility of the faculty in the evaluation process is to ensure ethical and legal standards are
met consistently and to:
Make program expectations known, clear and realistic.
Assist student in developing and/or reviewing learning goals.
Base assessments and judgments of nursing practice performance on accurate, significant and
relevant sources of data.
 Inform students as soon as performance deficits are identified.
 Counsel students on corrective actions so that program success can be achieved.
 Facilitate access to appropriate program/college support services and resources.
Make the consequences of choices known to the student.



Criteria for satisfactory
The student demonstrates a consistent pattern of performance, which indicates knowledgeable, safe and
competent nursing care for clients and families within the identified learning outcomes.
Criteria for unsatisfactory
The student demonstrates a pattern of performance that indicates a lack of knowledgeable, safe and
competent nursing care for clients and families in one or more of the stated learning outcomes.
If the student’s behaviour and/or conduct interferes with the learning process or in any way jeopardizes
the safe environment of the clinical setting, the student will be required to leave the clinical area.
Inappropriate behaviour or unsafe practices may require the withdrawal of the student from the course
prior to the end of the course. Consequently, the student will receive an unsatisfactory grade for the
course.
Assignment Policies
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The expectation of Health Professionals is that they complete assigned work competently and in the
allocated time, or that they anticipate difficulty in meeting deadlines and notify the appropriate person(s).
The following regulations regarding assignments reflect this belief and are designed to ensure that
graduates of the program meet these expectations.
Written Assignments
1.
2.
Students are required to submit all written assignments on or before the date and time specified.
Students should anticipate problems that will necessitate an extension of time.
3.
If an extension of time is required, students will make this request to the appropriate teacher prior
to the due date, in a timely manner.
4.
Assignments that do not meet the above criteria will lose 10% of the value of the assignment for
each business day late.
5.
Assignments must:
a) be typed, double-spaced, in APA format
b) be bound or submitted electronically as per teacher’s instructions.
c) not include any identifying information regarding clients.
Pre-Requisites
Each semester or course is a prerequisite for the following semester or course. Some courses also have corequisites (see Course Outlines for detail).
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5. Academic Progress through the Program
Academic Standing and Promotion
The Conestoga Student Guide is your first source for information concerning academic regulations,
policies and procedures. The Conestoga Student Guide is available on the college website and by visiting
the “Student Guide” tab in your Student Portal.
Promotion Process
The Philosophy and Learning Outcomes of the Program provide a frame of reference for student
promotion.
Promotion is the advancement from one level of the program to another after a process of evaluation,
which ensures that specific program outcomes have been met. Promotion is based on academic
achievement, satisfactory practice performance and professionalism.
Promotion review occurs at the completion of each semester.
Pre- Requisites
Each semester or course is a prerequisite for the following semester or course. Some courses also have corequisites (see Course Outlines for detail).
A student must have completed all previous semester’s courses to be promoted to the next semester.
Promotion Referrals
The teacher and student will meet prior to the Promotion Committee meeting to discuss the teacher’s
recommendation and to sign the Promotion Referral Sheet.
Reasons for presentation at Promotion Committee Meetings include:
1)
2)
Failure of a theory course and/or practice learning/clinical course
Unprofessional behaviour
Promotion Decisions
Based on the information presented to the Promotion Committee and the student’s prior history in the
program, the Committee may make the following decisions:




Complete supplemental requirements for a course failure.
(See criteria for supplemental examinations).
Repeat the course.
The opportunity to repeat a Practicum & Simulation course will be granted only once during the
program.
The maximum number of theoretical courses that can be repeated during the program is three
(3). Any individual course may only be repeated once.
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

Complete mandatory remedial or make-up work.
Follow through with counseling (academic and/or personal).
Failure to successfully complete recommendations of the Promotion Committee will result in
discontinuance from the program.
Supplementals
A fee of $40.00 is to be paid to the Registrar’s Office for supplemental work.
Criteria for eligibility to write supplemental examinations
The student must pass at least one test/exam in the course.
1. A student who fails two of the core courses in a semester will NOT be offered a supplemental in
either of the courses.
2. A student who attains a course grade of LESS than 55% will NOT be offered a supplemental in that
course.
Failure to pass a supplemental will result in discontinuance from the program.
Depending on the history, the student may be given the option to repeat the semester.
No more than two supplementals will be permitted throughout the Program.
Program Discontinuance
Students who fail to meet program standards (academically, clinically or ethically) will be discontinued
from the program on the recommendation of the Promotion Committee. Such students are entitled to
appeal the discontinuance decision in accordance with the College's appeal process.
Program Withdrawal
Refer to the Conestoga College Student Guide for procedures for withdrawal.
Re-entry to the program
To re-enter the program, the student must apply through the Registrar’s office. The Program Coordinator
must authorize the re-entry.
A student who has been out of the program for more than 12 months MUST successfully complete:
1.
2.
The final theory exam from the semester below the one they are applying to.
A skills challenge on skills from the semester below the one they are applying to.
Re-entry to the program is based on previous performance and seat availability in the desired semester.
Repeating a course
1. Nursing Practice: A student who does not meet the objectives for a satisfactory grade in a nursing
practice course will be required to repeat the course, if she/he has that option remaining. Only one
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repeat of a nursing practice course will be allowed.
1. A student who has a pattern of withdrawing from a Nursing course before academic penalty, with
a failing mid-term grade, will be permitted re-entry to the Program at the discretion of the Program
Coordinator and/ or Chair.
2. Nursing Theory: A student, who, after writing a supplemental examination in a nursing course, does
not achieve a passing grade, will be required to repeat the course, if she/he has that option
remaining.
Process for Resolution of Student Concerns
In order to resolve any concerns which may arise during a course, field placement or relating to the
program overall, students are encouraged to resolve issues or concerns informally at the program level
prior to proceeding to a formal appeal.
If attempts have been made, and a successful resolution has not been reached, students are encouraged
to refer to their Conestoga Student Guide, and to follow the procedures outlined under the “Academic
Dispute Resolution and Appeal Procedure” section.
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Maintaining Student Files
1. Official records of each student’s education are maintained electronically by the Registrar.
Academic records are also maintained by the college regarding Course Outlines to support the
level of achievement in a particular course.
2. Administrative records related to your experience in the Program are maintained to demonstrate
compliance with external and college requirements. This information is as follows:
Student Information
Pre-Practicum Health
Requirements
 per copies of information
received from students
File Location and Student Access
In H.S Trax, by individual student
access
Retention
 For the duration of
a student’s time in
the Program
**accessed through My Conestoga
Each student has his/her own
information on the Health
Passport for provision to
practicum agencies as required.
 By the Program, by the Program
Assistant responsible for
Placements

Acknowledgement of WSIB
Understanding
 signed by each student prior
to the first practicum
placements
Student Consents Signed on
Admission (per Student
Handbook)
 In Program File with Program
Assistant
 For the duration of
a student’s time in
the Program
 For the duration of
a student’s time in
the Program.
 Student Consent for Release
of Information
 Student Understanding of
Professional Standards
 Student Understanding of
Safety Requirements
3. Academic Files are set up as required for a student to document important matters relevant to a
student’s progress or to document and monitor resolution of concerns.
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Student Information
A. Documents related to academic
progress
 Correspondence regarding
course equivalencies
 Correspondence re
supplementary examinations
 Learning Contracts
 Disabilities Information & plans
File Location and Student
Access
 In Student File,
maintained by the
Program Coordinator,
initially, and then filed
for safe-keeping during
the student’s time in
the Program –
maintained by the
Program Assistant
Retention
For one year following
graduation
B. Records of Competency
Attainment
As above
As above
C. Documents related to areas of
Concern
 Interview Records, with
supporting email
documentation as appropriate
 Student Code of Conduct
 Incident Reports
 Letters/emails of significant
concern and replies
 Appeals
As above
As above
4. Students may review the contents of your Academic file by:
•
•
Requesting this in writing to the Program Coordinator
Reviewing the file in the presence of the Coordinator
5. At the end of one year, the contents of your file will be destroyed through the college’s process
for purging confidential documents.
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6. Field Placement Experiences
Pre-Requisites to Clinical Practice
An Immunization Record is a mandatory admission requirement for all students. Any practical
experience is prohibited until the immunization record is completed. If a student does not complete
their pre-requisites to clinical practice prior to placement, they will be unable to attend.
Mandatory practicum health and safety requirements must be completed by students prior to student
field/clinical placements. Successful placement completion is required for students to progress to
program completion. To qualify for field/clinical placement learning experiences, students must present
the following at the start of the program in accordance with pre-admission information provided by the
College:
• A complete immunization record including MMR, Tdap, Varicella, and Hepatitis B. Seasonal flu
vaccination is required during flu season (October – March).
• TB Testing: Evidence of current 2-step or previous 2-step + current 1-step if more than one year
has passed since 2-step testing.
• Standard First Aid and CPR – HCP level
• An annual Police Check for Vulnerable Sector Screening (VSS). Police Checks must be clear of any
unpardoned criminal offences. An unclear criminal record may result in the inability to participate
in field placement/clinical which will jeopardize progress in the program. Acceptance for
placement is at the discretion of the agency; some agencies may request students to provide a
VSS completed within six months of placement start date. Students with criminal records are
advised to meet with the program chair for academic counselling to determine program
suitability.
Safety in the Workplace Course
All students who participate in unpaid work placements during the course of their program will be
required to successfully complete the mandatory Safety in the Workplace course prior to going out on
placement. The course will provide students with an introduction to workplace hazards and general
safety awareness. Students will receive a Record of Completion to provide evidence of this training to
placement sites and will consent to their workplace insurance coverage.
Student Consent Forms
Students are required to complete program specific consent forms. To access the forms, students should
go to the Practicum Services Community on myConestoga and open the Consent Forms tab. Students can
then electronically sign-off all applicable consent forms after reading each Health Protection
We strongly advise all students to have the Influenza Vaccine when it becomes available. Note: some of
the Clinical Agencies require students to have the Influenza Vaccine. In the event of an outbreak of
influenza, students who have not been vaccinated will be prohibited from attending clinical experiences.
We strongly advise any student who has Severe Allergies or who has a medical condition such as Diabetes
or Epilepsy, to inform the Health Centre so that your medical status can be assessed and any emergency
treatment plans discussed.
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Enhanced professional practice – Gerontology and Chronic Illness Program Handbook 2015-2016
The student is responsible for his/her Dental Examinations, visual and hearing acuity.
It is the student's responsibility to immediately report to the Health Centre any accident or injury
occurring while a student here at Conestoga College and/or at clinical placement.
Policy for Accidents or Injuries while on Clinical Placement
Once you begin clinical practice, you are covered under by the Workers Safety Insurance Board. This means
that if you suffer an injury while on placement, you must report the incident to the placement employer usually the nurse/manager - and to your clinical Professor/Clinical Teacher immediately. This will ensure
that you receive the appropriate first aid or medical attention at the time of the injury and that the incident
is properly documented according to W.S.I.B. policy.
Reporting
If a student is injured while working in a clinical area of a hospital/agency, she/he should:
Contact her/his Professor/ Clinical Teacher immediately and report the nature of the injury.



Notify the unit manager about the incident.
Complete a “Student Work Placement Injury Report”. These forms can be obtained from your
Professor/Clinical Teacher.
Send the report, after treatment is completed, to the Kim Radigan, Health and Safety Officer, where
it will be kept on file.
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7. Student Awards
Conestoga has more than 400 awards, bursaries, scholarships and academic grants available to
Conestoga students. These funds are made available to our students through the partnerships we have
established with local business and industry leaders. To be considered for an award, complete the
General Application available through your Student Portal. Notifications and instructions to complete the
application are sent to all full-time students’ email accounts in the fall semester (Deadline: First Friday in
October) and winter semester (Deadline: First Friday in February). Visit the Student Financial Services on
Conestoga’s website.
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Program revision log
Last Revised
July 9th, 2015
By Whom
Michelle Heyer
July 9th, 2015
Jillian Grant
July 14, 2015
Nicole Dorscht
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