TRUCKEE MEADOWS COMMUNITY COLLEGE
MAXINE S. JACOBS NURSING PROGRAM
STUDENT HANDBOOK
2015-2016
Truckee Meadows Community College
William N. Pennington Health Science Center
18600 Wedge Pkwy. Building B
Reno, Nevada 89512
nursing.tmcc.edu
Truckee Meadows Community College
Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program
Student Handbook
2015-2016
Greetings,
On behalf of the faculty and staff it is my distinct pleasure to welcome you as a member of our Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing
Program community. You are about to begin an important journey as you prepare to become a nurse. Grounded in the
sciences and liberal arts, you will learn the basic skills and the scientific basis for practicing our profession. The next four
semesters will be exciting, intense and challenging as you learn to care for individuals throughout their live, whether ill or
healthy. You will grow professionally and personally through interactions with faculty, your fellow students, nursing staff in
clinical agencies, and patients.
It’s exciting to care for a mother giving birth or an adult leaving the hospital after successful chemotherapy. It’s during the
difficult times that you will come to better understand your patients and yourself. For example, talking with a wife who has
just lost her husband is hard but rewarding. These are the peaks and valleys of your journey that will make you an excellent
nurse. Upon graduation, you will be well- prepared for the NCLEX exam, allowing you to become licensed as a registered
nurse. Our graduates have successful careers in multiple specialty areas and perhaps you will go on to complete your
bachelors, masters or doctoral degrees.
From the beginning, your faculty will be there to help you learn. Some of our clinical faculty have doctoral degrees and many
continue their own practices. You will be working closely with clinical staff and participating as a member of the healthcare
team to provide patient care. Don’t hesitate to seek out faculty and learning experiences; we are here to help you and
facilitate your learning.
You are here because you are the best and the brightest. Our expectations are high but the outcomes are well worth it. I
know that your education at Truckee Meadows Community College will take you far. We are excited that you are here.
A career in nursing is a profession dedicated to the achievement of health and healthcare through science and its
application. I hope you will gain a deeper understanding of what it means as you experience the dedication our faculty
members have to your development. I encourage you to get to know them – they are leaders not only in the school, but the
entire nursing profession. The time you spend with us is sure to provide you with many opportunities.
Best wishes,
Jody Covert MSN, RN
Director of Nursing
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Truckee Meadows Community College
Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program
Student Handbook
2015-2016
W e l c o m e t o t h e Tr u c k e e Me a d o ws C o m mu n i t y C o l l e g e Ma xi n e S . J a c o b s
Nursing Program!
This handbook for students in the TMCC Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program provides information regarding policies,
procedures, available resources and issues that are of concern to student academic life. It also outlines rights and
responsibilities of the students. These policies, and any additional Nursing Program policies and procedures relative to
student records, publications, grievances and discipline, are consistent with the Family Rights and Privacy Act of 1974.
Policies and procedures governing all TMCC students are available in the TMCC College Catalog.
Students are responsible for using the handbook and college catalog as a resource when questions arise and as a guide to
academic and nonacademic policies and procedures. All students are required to sign the Handbook Acknowledgement
document. A copy of the Handbook Acknowledgement is retained in your file. By signing the acknowledgement, you certify
that you are responsible for:
1.
Reading the handbook in its entirety.
2.
Agreeing to comply with all policies.
3.
Reviewing and understanding any changes made to the Handbook during the entire time you are enrolled as a
student in the Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program.
4.
Recognizing that changes made to policies and procedures may impact you as a student.
Note that the information in this handbook is updated annually. Changes may also be made throughout the academic year
and you will be notified of any changes.
The information in this handbook is accurate as of August 2014. The Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program Student Handbook is
available electronically at the Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program website.
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Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program
Student Handbook
2015-2016
Table of Contents
Greetings............................................................................................................................................................. 2
Welcome to the Truckee Meadows Community College Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program!............................................ 3
Section I – Truckee Meadows Community College Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program ......................................... 6
Mission Statement ................................................................................................................................................ 6
Philosophy of the Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program................................................................................................. 6
Associate Degree Nursing Education........................................................................................................................ 7
Program Outcomes Statements and Measures .......................................................................................................... 8
Community College Education ................................................................................................................................ 9
Learner ............................................................................................................................................................... 9
Nurse Educator..................................................................................................................................................... 9
Non-Discrimination Statement and Americans with Disabilities Act ............................................................................ 10
Accreditation ...................................................................................................................................................... 10
Disclaimer ......................................................................................................................................................... 10
Notification of program changes to currently enrolled students ................................................................................. 11
Documents and Forms......................................................................................................................................... 11
TMCC Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program Faculty and Staff ...................................................................................... 12
Section II – Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program Curriculum ............................................................................... 13
Curricular Organizing Structure ............................................................................................................................ 13
Bloom’s Cognitive Taxonomy of Learning ............................................................................................................... 13
Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program Terminal Objectives ........................................................................................... 14
Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program Curriculum Concepts.......................................................................................... 15
Section III – Curriculum for Nursing: Associate of Applied Science .................................................................... 19
Cost for A.D.N. Program ...................................................................................................................................... 20
Section IV – Student Policies .............................................................................................................................. 21
Academic and Clinical Performance Counseling ....................................................................................................... 21
Academic Advisement ......................................................................................................................................... 22
Agreements ....................................................................................................................................................... 22
Attendance ........................................................................................................................................................ 22
Attrition............................................................................................................................................................. 22
Background Checks and Drug Screens ................................................................................................................... 22
Change of Name, Address and Telephone Numbers ................................................................................................. 23
Civility............................................................................................................................................................... 23
Complaint Resolution .......................................................................................................................................... 23
Conduct, Professional Behavior and Honor Code ..................................................................................................... 24
Counseling ......................................................................................................................................................... 28
Disability Accommodations for Nursing Students..................................................................................................... 28
Distribution of Final Course Grades ....................................................................................................................... 29
Electronic Devices ............................................................................................................................................... 29
Exam Policy ....................................................................................................................................................... 29
Faculty Evaluations ............................................................................................................................................. 29
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Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program
Student Handbook
2015-2016
Food or Beverages .............................................................................................................................................. 29
Grade Appeals .................................................................................................................................................... 29
Holidays ............................................................................................................................................................ 29
Learning Resources ............................................................................................................................................. 29
Liability Insurance .............................................................................................................................................. 30
Medical Insurance ............................................................................................................................................... 30
Readmission ...................................................................................................................................................... 30
Recording (Audio or Video) .................................................................................................................................. 30
Required Documents ........................................................................................................................................... 31
Social Media and Networking ................................................................................................................................ 31
Student Input into Program Processes and Decision Making ..................................................................................... 31
Transportation.................................................................................................................................................... 31
Weather ............................................................................................................................................................ 31
Section V – Clinical and Laboratory Policies ....................................................................................................... 33
Appeal of Withdrawal for Unsafe Clinical Practice or Unprofessional Behavior.............................................................. 33
Clinical and Laboratory Policies ............................................................................................................................. 34
Clinical Assignments/Facilities .............................................................................................................................. 35
Clinical Dress Code ............................................................................................................................................. 36
Confidentiality .................................................................................................................................................... 38
Medication Administration Policy ........................................................................................................................... 38
Pathogen Exposure ............................................................................................................................................. 39
Patient Safety .................................................................................................................................................... 41
Reporting Sentinel Events to the Nevada State Board of Nursing (NSBN) ................................................................... 44
Unsafe or Unsatisfactory Work ............................................................................................................................. 44
Section VI – Graduation and RN Licensure ......................................................................................................... 46
Pinning Ceremony............................................................................................................................................... 46
Licensure as a Registered Nurse ........................................................................................................................... 46
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Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program
Student Handbook
2015-2016
Section I – Truckee Meadow s Community College Maxine S.
Jacobs Nursing Program
M i s s i o n S t a t e me n t
(Effective 09/18/2009)
The mission of Truckee Meadows Community College’s Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program is congruent with the college’s
mission, providing high quality associate degree nursing education in order to positively influence the health and well-being
of the community and the clients our students serve. Valuing social and cultural differences, the faculty believes that
students are active learners and use current nursing educational theory and practice to prepare students to be critical
thinkers and competent professionals. Student success is encouraged by providing a thorough welcome and orientation to
the Nursing Program and access to essential services, college resources and community mentors for the duration that the
student is enrolled in the TMCC Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program. The importance of lifelong learning for the graduate is
emphasized.
P h i l o s o p h y o f t h e M a xi n e S . J a c o b s Nu r s i n g P r o g r a m
The philosophy of the Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program at TMCC embraces the nursing paradigm of person, health,
environment and nursing. It also incorporates the eight core components and competencies for graduates of associate
degree programs as identified by the National League for Nursing (NLN) and provides additional structure, support, and
outlines some of the challenges of nursing education within a state supported community college.
Person: A unique, valued, multifaceted biopsychosocialspiritual individual seeking an optimal level of wellness that
considers personal and cultural needs, choices and motivation.
Health: An individualized homeostatic state that is achieved when the person and environment interact to maximize quality
of life experiences.
Environment: Dynamic internal and external components that impact the person in pursuit of health.
Nursing: Nursing provides an essential direct service to society. The nurse collaborates with the person across the life span
to achieve health and provides caring and compassion at the end of life.
Nursing is both art and science incorporating theories and concepts from the biological, physical, behavioral and social
sciences. Evidence based nursing practice, nursing process and standards of nursing care are combined with legal, ethical
and cultural considerations to provide collaborative holistic care to individuals, families and communities.
Nursing is an evolving profession and requires dedication to lifelong learning. The core competencies of nursing include:
professional behaviors, communication, assessment, clinical decision making, caring interventions, teaching and learning,
collaboration and managing care (Coxwell, G. & Gillerman, H. (Eds) (2002). Educational competencies for graduates of
associate degree Nursing Programs. (Sudbury, MA: Jones and Bartlett Publishers.)
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Student Handbook
2015-2016
A s s o c i a t e De g r e e N u r s i n g E d u c a t i o n
We believe that the TMCC Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program Learning Outcomes with Supporting Definitions serve as the
guide for nursing education. Nursing education in an institution of higher learning incorporates knowledge gained from
nursing courses and those in general education, physical, behavioral and social sciences and cultural diversity.
Identification of general education courses provides a common foundation for all students in the Nursing Program. We
recognize that individual educational and life experiences also contribute to each student’s nursing education process. A
balance between general education and nursing courses with early introduction of technical skills and person/student
interaction facilitates development of nursing knowledge by recognizing needs of the individual adult learner.
Nursing education must address use of the nursing process across the life span at various points along the health-illness
continuum and in a variety of health care settings. Nursing education at the community college must also consider the
demographic and cultural needs of the community that will serve as the nursing practice environment for the graduate of
the Nursing Program.
Integral to the education of nursing students is providing opportunities to observe and participate in both simulated and
actual patient centered learning experiences. Laboratory and clinical courses are structured to allow application of concepts
and principles learned from theory courses. Each semester of education builds upon previous learning and encourages the
development of clinical decision making.
Nursing faculty are both educators and skilled practitioners of nursing responsible for maintaining expertise and current
knowledge and serve as role models for the importance of lifelong learning. Nursing faculty are responsible for identifying
learning experiences that will expose the students to a variety of settings and serve as liaisons with registered nurses within
those settings. Nursing faculty review and analyze current trends in nursing and health care issues that impact the role of
the registered nurse.
The ultimate goal of nursing education at TMCC is to prepare a safe, competent, beginning level practitioner who possesses
knowledge, skills and professionalism required by the registered nurse. The nursing education obtained by the graduate of
the TMCC Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program serves as the starting point for continued development and education as an
accountable and responsible member of the nursing profession.
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Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program
Student Handbook
2015-2016
P r o g r a m O u t c o m e s : S t a t e m e n t s a n d Me a s u r e s
Program Outcomes
Outcome Statement 1: Students completing the Associate of Science: Nursing Degree will achieve a passing score on the
NCLEX-RN.
Measure: NCLEX-RN results for first time test takers will be at or above the national mean.
Outcome Statement 2: Students completing the Associate of Science: Nursing Degree will complete the program in a
timely manner.
Measure: Graduation within six semesters of admission will be achieved by 75% of students.
Outcome Statement 3: Students completing the Associate of Science: Nursing Degree will be employable.
Measure: Within one year of graduation, 75% of graduates responding will report themselves employed on the graduate
survey.
Student Learning Outcomes
Outcome Statement 1: Students completing the Associate of Science: Nursing Degree will practice professional nursing
behaviors, incorporating personal responsibility, values, and expectations of the profession and accountability for lifelong
learning.
Measure: Demonstration of competency on the final clinical evaluation tool for the program.
Outcome Statement 2: Students completing the Associate of Science: Nursing Degree will integrate knowledge of the
diverse and holistic needs of the individual to safely implement the nursing process.
Measure: Demonstration of competency on the final clinical evaluation tool for the program.
Outcome Statement 3: Students completing the Associate of Science: Nursing Degree will communicate professionally and
effectively with individuals, significant support persons, and members of the interdisciplinary health care team.
Measure: Demonstration of competency on the final clinical evaluation tool for the program.
Outcome Statement 4: Students completing the Associate of Science: Nursing Degree will manage care within the
interdisciplinary healthcare team to advocate for positive individual and organizational outcomes.
Measure: Demonstration of competency on the final clinical evaluation tool for the program.
Outcome Statement 5: Students completing the Associate of Science: Nursing Degree will incorporate informatics to
formulate evidence-based clinical judgments and management decisions.
Measure: Demonstration of competency on the final clinical evaluation tool for the program.
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Truckee Meadows Community College
Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program
Student Handbook
2015-2016
C o m mu n i t y C o l l e g e E d u c a t i o n
The vision of TMCC is that Truckee Meadows Community College creates the future by changing lives. The mission is that
Truckee Meadows Community College promotes student success, academic excellence and access to lifelong learning by
supporting high-quality education and services within our diverse community.
A variety of educational offerings and student and academic support services help individuals achieve goals and aspirations.
The values upon which Truckee Meadows Community College bases its mission and vision statements are the principles,
standards and qualities the college considers worthwhile and desirable. Truckee Meadows Community College is committed
to:
•
Student access and success
•
Excellence in teaching and learning
•
Evidence of student progress through assessment of student outcomes
•
Nurturing a climate of innovative and creative thought
•
Collaborative decision making
•
Community development through partnerships and services
•
Ethical practices and integrity
•
Respect, compassion, and equality for all persons
•
Responsible and sustainable use of resources
•
Fostering attitudes that exemplify responsible participation in a democratic society
The population utilizing TMCC as an institution of higher learning includes residents from the greater Reno-Sparks
community, outlying areas of Fernley, Fallon, Dayton and Carson City. Fostering flexibility and diversity through classroom,
online and distance education course offerings in addition to workforce or continuing education courses provides a variety of
learning opportunities to the community.
Learner
The adult learner in the Associate Degree Nursing Program has unique values, beliefs, needs, experiences and educational
backgrounds. Each individual has personal and professional aspirations that serve as motivation to succeed. The
combination of readiness, motivation, culture and life experiences of the learner will influence the learning process. It is the
responsibility of the learner to take advantage of all educational opportunities, to adhere to program and course policies and
requirements and to seek out academic and support services as needed.
Nurse Educator
The nurse educator facilitates learning by providing a variety of meaningful learning experiences and assisting learners to
develop the core competencies of nursing. The nurse educator provides ongoing evaluation of the learner utilizing verbal and
written feedback to stimulate growth. The nurse educator is a professional role model in the classroom and clinical settings
participates in continuing education and professional activities including maintaining membership in professional
organizations and involvement in community service.
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Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program
Student Handbook
2015-2016
N o n - Di s c r i m i n a t i o n S t a t e me n t a n d A me r i c a n s wi t h D i s a b i l i t i e s A c t
TMCC is an EEO/AA institution. For more information, visit http://eeo.tmcc.edu
Students who feel they may need an accommodation based on the impact of a disability are encouraged to meet privately
with their instructors to discuss their specific needs and must contact the Disability Resource Center at 775-673-7277 in
RDMT 114 to establish documentation of a disability and to coordinate reasonable accommodations.
Accreditation
The TMCC Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc.
(ACEN), and is approved by the Nevada State Board of Nursing. TMCC is accredited by the Northwest Association of Schools
and Colleges. The ACEN maintains information on TMCC’s Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program. ACEN’s address is 3343
Peachtree Road NE, Suite 850, Atlanta, GA 30326, phone 404-975-5000, fax 404-975-5020. Students may contact ACEN
directly.
The TMCC Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program meets all the Nevada Systems of Higher Education minimum degree
requirements for the Associate in Science degree. Upon completion of the program, the student will be awarded an Associate
in Science degree with an emphasis in Nursing. Graduates of the program are eligible to take the National Council Licensure
Examination (NCLEX-RN) for registered nursing. Upon successful completion of the NCLEX, the graduate is licensed as a
registered nurse, provided all State Board of Nursing requirements are met. Completion of the Nursing Program is not a
guarantee of licensure or employment as a registered nurse.
D i s c l a i me r
Information in this handbook describes the Truckee Meadows Community College Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program at the
time of publication. Unless otherwise indicated by a parenthetical statement containing “effective date” all terms, conditions,
policies, practices, stated directives and information contained within this handbook is effective on the publication date as
listed in the Table of Contents. However, changes may be made in policies, the calendar, curriculum or costs. Such changes
will be announced by TMCC approved methods and practices.
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Student Handbook
2015-2016
Notification of program changes to currently enrolled students
All student policies of the Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program are developed and approved by the faculty. Approved policies
are contained in a Nursing Student Handbook, which is available to all students on the TMCC website.
Prior to each Fall Semester, new and returning students will read the Nursing Student Handbook and sign an
acknowledgement form.
•
Input from students will be considered a part of data gathering regarding policy changes.
•
New policies or those needing revision will be reviewed and approved, modified, or denied during a faculty meeting
by a majority vote of all faculty.
•
Approval, modification or denial will be by vote of the faculty, with a majority being required.
•
New and revised policies will be incorporated into the Nursing program website.
•
Changes to the Handbook become effective at the beginning of the Fall Semester.
o
If a policy or process is implemented prior to the next scheduled handbook revision, students will be
provided with changes in writing, and sign an acknowledgement of receipt.
o
The effective date will be included.
D o c u me n t s a n d Fo r ms
All Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program documents and forms are accessible via the TMCC Nursing Program website.
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Truckee Meadows Community College
Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program
Student Handbook
2015-2016
T M C C Ma xi n e S . J a c o b s N u r s i n g P r o g r a m Fa c u l t y a n d S t a f f
Joy Alverson, MSN, RN
Debbie Bader, MSN, RN
Health Science Center, 160
Health Science Center, 159
jalverson@tmcc.edu
dbader@tmcc.edu
Becky Calhoun, MSN, RN
Jody Covert, MSN, RN
Health Science Center, 163
Health Science Center, 157
wcalhoun@tmcc.edu
jcovert@tmcc.edu
Pat Durham-Taylor, PhD., MSN, EdSp, RN
Connie Croysdill, MSN, RNC-NIC
Health Science Center, 165
Health Science Center, 158
ptaylor@tmcc.edu
ccroysdill@tmcc.edu
Ellen House, DNSc, RN-BC, CNE
Rosemary Rinaldi, MSN, RN, ACNS-BC, CNE
Health Science Center, 162
Health Science Center, 164
ehouse@tmcc.edu
rrinaldi@tmcc.edu
Deborah Skeans, MSN, RN
Health Science Center, 154
dskeans@tmcc.edu
Cindy Stone, MSN, RN
Health Science Center, 161
cstone@tmcc.edu
Administrative Assistant for Health Sciences/Nursing
Barbara Alberti
Health Science Center, 153
balberti@tmcc.edu
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Truckee Meadows Community College
Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program
Student Handbook
2015-2016
Section II – Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program Curriculum
The material in this handbook supplements the Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC) Catalog and presents more
explicit current requirements and policies for the associate degree offered by the Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program.
Curricular Organizing Structure
Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program Curriculum: An organizing structure for teaching nursing has been developed by faculty
to facilitate learning about nursing. The organizing structure provides a methodology for students and faculty to interpret
and organize knowledge about clients, nursing, health and the environment. The organizing structure of this Nursing
Program uses Bloom’s Taxonomy of Learning, the nursing meta-paradigm (nursing, health, patient and environment) and
the Nursing Process as illustrated in the Organizing Structure chart. Following are concise descriptions of these components.
B l o o m ’ s C o g n i t i ve Ta xo n o m y o f L e a r n i n g
The nursing curriculum utilizes the six levels of Bloom's Taxonomy as a method of developing the program of study to
progress from simple to complex. The first semester of study is directed toward the level of knowledge and comprehension,
while the fourth semester focuses on analysis, synthesis and evaluation of the total client care and management.
Level I. Remember is remembering, recognizing and recalling important concepts. It includes factual information with right
and wrong answers.
Level II. Understand is the thought processes of interpreting, exemplifying, classifying, summarizing, inferring, comparing,
and explaining of interpreting, translating from one medium to another and describing in one’s own words.
Level III. Apply is executing and implementing, showing the practical use of information in one’s environment. It is
problem solving and applying information to produce a result.
Level IV. Analyze is the processing, researching and guessing of problems or situations. It is differentiating, organizing,
and attributing and includes subdividing concepts in order to show how they are put together in an effort to find the
underlying structure. It allows for conclusions to be made about client care.
Level V. Evaluate is checking and critiquing. It is the examination of the plan of care and determination of its effectiveness.
Level VI. Create is generating, planning, and producing. It allows for the creation of individualized plans of care.
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Student Handbook
2015-2016
M a xi n e S . J a c o b s Nu r s i n g P r o g r a m Te r mi n a l O b j e c t i ve s
•
Practice within the ethical, legal, and regulatory frameworks of nursing and standards of professional nursing
practice.
•
Demonstrate accountability for nursing care given by self and/or delegated to others.
•
Advocate for client rights and decisions.
•
Maintain and protect organizational and client confidentiality.
•
Practice within the parameters of individual knowledge and experience.
•
Utilize therapeutic communication skills when interacting with client and significant support person(s).
•
Communicate relevant, accurate, and complete information in a concise and clear manner.
•
Utilize information technology to support and communicate the planning and provision of client care.
•
Communicate effectively while acting as a member of the healthcare team to achieve positive outcomes.
•
Assess the impact of diverse and holistic influences on the client’s health status.
•
Assess client and significant support person(s) for learning strengths, capabilities, barriers, and educational needs.
•
Assess the client’s response to actual or potential health problems and interventions.
•
Assess the client for changes in health status and identified needs.
•
Assess the strengths, resources, and needs of the client within the context of their community.
•
Make appropriate evidence-based clinical judgments and management decisions to ensure accurate and safe care.
•
Utilize and analyze assessment and reassessment data to plan care.
•
Evaluate and modify client care as indicated by client outcomes.
•
Participate in problem identification and data collection for research, quality control, or improvement processes to
meet client outcomes.
•
Protect and promote the client’s dignity by identifying and honoring the diverse and holistic influences on the client’s
health.
•
Demonstrate caring towards the client, significant support person(s), peers, and other members of the health care
•
Perform nursing skills competently while providing a safe physical and psychosocial environment, appropriately
team.
utilizing current technology.
•
Assist the client and significant support person(s) to cope with and adapt to stressful events and changes in health
care.
•
Support the client and significant support person(s) when making healthcare and end of life decisions.
•
Explore and act upon opportunities for teaching and learning with each encounter with a client and significant
support person(s).
•
Teach the client and significant support person(s) the information and skills needed and evaluate the progress
towards achievement of the desired learning outcome.
•
Provide assistive personnel with relevant instruction to support achievement of client outcomes.
•
Work cooperatively with others to achieve client and organizational outcomes.
•
Interact creatively and openly with others to solve problems to achieve client goals and outcomes.
•
Prioritize and manage care for a group of clients using available resources.
•
Facilitate the continuity of care within and across healthcare settings.
•
Delegate, collaborate, supervise and evaluate aspects of care performed by assistive personnel.
•
Assist the client and significant support person(s) to access available resources and services.
•
Manage time effectively and efficiently
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Student Handbook
2015-2016
M a xi n e S . J a c o b s Nu r s i n g P r o g r a m Cu r r i c u l u m C o n c e p t s
The faculty have chosen the concepts around which to organize student learning for the expected outcomes. Eight core
competencies for graduate of associate degree Nursing Programs are described by the National League for Nursing (2002).
Additional concepts have been identified that help explain the content required to function as a registered nurse. These
concepts are defined and are introduced and then imbedded throughout the curriculum. Program outcomes are based on the
concepts and competencies and further explicated by outcome behaviors related to each. The concepts are used to define
nursing and prepare graduates to pass the NCLEX-RN and function as registered nurses.
CONCEPT
EXEMPLAR/TOPIC
Fluid & Electrolyte
•
•
•
•
•
Basic Fluid/Electrolyte Balance
Acute Kidney Injury
Chronic Renal Failure
Fluid Balance
Electrolyte Imbalance
Acid Base
•
•
Acid Base Balance
Respiratory & Metabolic Acidosis and Alkalosis
Elimination
•
•
Bladder: Incontinence & Retention
Constipation & Impaction
Glucose Regulation
•
•
•
Diabetes
Diabetes Part 2 (DKA, HHS)
Thyroid Disease
Clotting
•
•
•
Liver Disease
DVT
DIC
Nutrition
•
•
Obesity
Anemia (Folic Acid, Iron Deficiency, Physiologic anemia of pregnancy)
Intracranial
Regulation
•
Increased Intracranial Pressure
Thermoregulation
•
•
Hypothermia
Hyperthermia
Cellular Regulation
•
•
•
•
Cancer
Leukemia
Breast Cancer
Colon Cancer
Gas Exchange
•
•
•
•
•
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Asthma
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Respiratory Syncytial Virus
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Student Handbook
CONCEPT
2015-2016
EXEMPLAR/TOPIC
Perfusion
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Arteriosclerosis
Heart Failure
Cardiomyopathy
Angina
Myocardial Infarction
Stroke
Hypertension
Pregnancy induced Hypertension
Ventricular Septal Defect
Life Threatening Dysrhythmias
Shock (Hypovolemic, Septic)
Sexuality
•
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Reproduction
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Family Planning
Antepartum Care
Prematurity
Newborn Care
Postpartum Care
Placenta Abruption
Placenta Previa
Inflammation
•
•
•
Gall Bladder Disease
Glomerulonephritis
Osteoarthritis
Tissue Integrity
•
•
Pressure Ulcers
Wound Healing
Infection
•
•
•
•
•
Pneumonia
Nosocomial Infection
Urinary Tract Infection
Sepsis
MRSA
Immunity
•
•
•
•
•
HIV/AIDS
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Hypersensitivity (Type 1-4)
Graves Disease (Hyperthyroidism)
Hypothyroidism
Sensory Perception
•
•
Sensory Impairment (diabetic retinopathy)
Peripheral Neuropathy
Mobility
•
•
•
•
Hip Fractures
Back Problems (Herniated disc, Diskectomy, spinal fusion)
Spinal Cord Injury
Osteoporosis
Pain
•
Pain: Acute & Chronic
Palliation
•
•
End of Life Care
Death & Dying
Anxiety
•
Anxiety
Page 16 of 46
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Student Handbook
CONCEPT
2015-2016
EXEMPLAR/TOPIC
Family Dynamics
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Perinatal Loss
Children’s response to loss
Elder’s response to loss
Family Structure/Roles
Divorce
Family Response to Health Promotion
Family Response to Health Alterations
Community Support
Mood & Affect
•
•
Depressive Disorders (Including Postpartum Depression)
Bipolar Disorder
Cognition
•
•
•
•
Schizophrenia
Alzheimer’s Disease/Dementia
Delirium
Confusion
Addiction
•
Substance Addictions
Development
•
•
Eric Erikson
Piaget
Cultural Diversity
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Vulnerable Populations
Age, Gender, Race, Sexual Orientation
Values, Beliefs
Spiritual Health
Spiritual Well-Being
Spirituality
Religion
Spiritual Distress
Violence
•
•
•
•
Violence
Elder Abuse
Intimate Partner Abuse
Child Abuse (Shaken Baby Syndrome)
Health Promotion
•
•
•
Wellness/Illness Continuum
Alternative Therapies related to cultural and religious beliefs
Health Beliefs
Professionalism
•
•
•
Leadership
Commitment to Profession
Advocacy
Communication
•
•
•
•
Therapeutic Communication
Group Process
Documentation
Reporting
Assessment
•
•
•
Holistic health assessment
Assessment of normal
Assessment of abnormal (including medications)
Clinical Judgment
•
•
•
•
Problem-solving
Decision-making
Nursing Process
Critical Thinking
Caring Interventions •
Caregiver skills development (Laboratory, Clinical & Simulation)
Patient Education
Patient Education
•
Page 17 of 46
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Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program
Student Handbook
CONCEPT
2015-2016
EXEMPLAR/TOPIC
Collaboration
•
•
•
•
•
Interdisciplinary Teams
Interdisciplinary Communication
Chain of Command
Conflict Resolution
Management Theories
Care Coordination
•
•
•
Care Coordination
Delegation
Case Management
Safety
•
•
•
•
•
•
Standard Precautions
National Patient Safety Goals
“Hand off” Communication
Injury/Illness Prevention
Environmental Safety
Emergency Preparedness
Health Care Law
•
•
•
•
•
•
Nursing Practice Act
Criminal Law/Civil Law
Obligation to Report
Risk Management
Advance Directives
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
Health Care Quality
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Cost Effective Care
Regulatory Agencies (OSHA, Licensure, DHHS, DHSR, CMS)
Types of Reimbursement (Medicare, Medicaid, Private)
Professional Organizations
Accrediting Bodies
Sentinel Events
Reporting
Benchmarking
Quality Improvement Cycle
Health Care
Organizations
•
•
•
•
•
•
Access to Healthcare
Diagnostic Related Groups
Primary, Secondary, Tertiary Care
Allocation of Resources
Resource Utilization
Nursing Care Delivery
Ethics
•
•
•
•
ANA Code of Ethics
Ethical dilemmas
Ethical principles
Patient Rights
Evidence
•
Best Practices
Technology &
Information
•
•
Telehealth
Clinical Informatics
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Truckee Meadows Community College
Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program
Student Handbook
2015-2016
Section III – Curriculum for Nursing: Associate of Science
General education degree requirements may be taken prior to admission to the Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program. See
special admission requirements.
Required Courses – (pre-requisites, these courses are also required for degree)
Credits
Math 126
Pre-Calculus
3
BIOL 223
Human Anatomy and Physiology I
4
BIOL 251
General Microbiology
4
Required Courses Total
11
Core requirements: Includes general education requirements. All nursing courses must be taken in the sequence listed. A
grade of “C” or better is required. Other courses may be taken out of sequence if allowed by college policy.
Prerequisite Semester
Biology 190/
190L
Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology/Lab……………………………………. 4
Biology 223
Human Anatomy & Physiology I
4
Biology 251
General Microbiology
4
English 101
Composition I .............................................................................. 3
Math 126
Pre-Calculus ................................................................................ 3
Total
18
1st Semester
Biology 224
Human Anatomy & Physiology II
4
NURS 138
Nursing Care 1
7
NURS 212
Cultural Aspects of Nursing Care
3
NURS 142
Fundamentals of Pharmacology ...................................................... 2
Total
16
2nd Semester
ENG 102
Composition II
3
NURS 102
Professional Behaviors
2
NURS 170
Nursing Care 2
7
NURS 209
Principles of Pathophysiology………………………………………………………………… 3
Total ........................................................................................15
3rd Semester
Social Science/
U.S. & Nevada
Constitution
Choose from recommended list
3
NURS 202
Nursing Care 3
7
Total ........................................................................................10
Page 19 of 46
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Student Handbook
2015-2016
4th Semester
Humanities
Choose from recommended list ...................................................... 3
Fine Arts
Choose from recommended list ...................................................... 3
NURS 274
Nursing Care 4 ............................................................................. 7
Total ........................................................................................13
Degree Total
72
C o s t f o r A . D. N. P r o g r a m
Students enrolled in the Nursing Program follow the fee schedule and refund policy described in the current TMCC Catalog.
Additional costs to the Nursing Program are outlined below. These costs are approximate and are subject to change.
College Admission Fee (one time only)
$10.00
Background Check
$49.50
Drug Screening
$35.00
Immunizations
Immunization Tracking/Clinical Portfolio
CPR Certification Health Care Provider Card
Health Insurance
Uniforms, including shoes
Clinical equipment
Textbooks
Nursing Pin (optional; one time only)
Fee for NCLEX-RN Exam (one time only)
Fingerprints
$550.00
$85.00/yr
$50.00
varies
$200.00
$50.00
$1,800.00
$40.00-$200.00
$200.00
$55.00
Application for licensure
$100.00
Malpractice Insurance $60/year (optional)
$120.00
Standardized Testing/Student Resources
$355.00
Total does not include any applicable non-resident fees. Contact TMCC Accounting Services/Cashier's Office for current fees.
Page 20 of 46
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Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program
Student Handbook
2015-2016
Section IV – Student Policies
A c a d e mi c a n d C l i n i c a l P e r f o r ma n c e Co u n s e l i n g
Counseling Conference
A counseling conference provides an opportunity for the instructor, student or Nursing Director to raise and discuss issues of
concern.
A counseling conference can be initiated or requested by a student, faculty member or Nursing Director.
A third person/neutral party may be asked to participate in counseling conference. Attendance of a third party is to be
accepted by all participating.
Students may be counseled regarding academic and/or clinical performance. Violations of any program standard or policy as
stated in course syllabi or the program handbook are also reasons for which counseling is initiated.
Academic Counseling Conference
If a student’s academic performance indicates potential for not completing the course, a conference may be held at the
request of the student or instructor.
The instructor will provide the student with theory grades in writing. Recommendations for corrective action to assist the
student in improving performance can be made at this time.
The instructor will put a copy of the conference documentation in the student’s file.
Clinical Performance Conference
Instructors have the right and responsibility to ensure safe and satisfactory behaviors in the clinical setting. The instructor
may impose any restriction upon the student deemed necessary in relation to the occurrence. This includes removal from
the clinical setting immediately.
The instructor will then document behaviors/occurrence objectively. All specific data including date, time and place of
occurrence is to be included.
When student clinical behaviors do not meet satisfactory standards, the instructor will initially inform the student verbally
(verbal warning) and if necessary a written warning will follow.
•
The verbal discussion should occur as close to the time of the occurrence as possible.
•
The instructor will discuss with the student acceptable behavior/performance and establish a plan for remediation.
•
Written warning will generally follow a verbal warning as necessary for unsatisfactory clinical behavior. An action
plan will be provided.
A counseling conference may be held. The student has the opportunity to respond to the instructor’s warning and
recommendation on the Official Reprimand form or Written Summary of verbal warning.
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The student and instructor’s signatures are required on the Official Reprimand form. The student’s signature does not
necessarily indicate agreement. The signature represents that the student has been apprised of the occurrence in writing
and has read the information.
Should a student refuse to sign the form, a note will be made on the form. An area for student comments is provided on the
form.
A c a d e mi c A d vi s e me n t
Students should make an appointment by contacting TMCC's Academic Advisement.
Students should seek course substitutions and academic planning prior to their graduation semester.
A g r e e me n t s
An agreement is a written document between the student and faculty. This may be to help an individual student to
understand expectations and standards governing the student’s performance in the Nursing Program. The agreement is
implemented for a variety of situations, including, but not limited to, re-entry into the Nursing Program, decreasing clinical
performance behavior, failure to observe program standards, and excessive tardiness. The agreement will be placed in the
student’s file and a copy will be provided to the student. The agreement is applicable only during the semester in which it is
initiated.
Attendance
Class attendance is vital to successful course completion. Each course syllabus contains an attendance policy. The policy
may vary slightly from one course to another. Course work missed for any reason may be made up at the discretion of the
instructor. It is the personal responsibility of the student to consult with the instructor prior to any absence from a class or
clinical experience. The instructor makes the final determination on whether the missed work can be done at a time other
than during the regularly scheduled class period. Instructors have the prerogative to assign a grade of “F” when, in their
judgment; the student cannot successfully complete the course due to excessive absences.
Attrition
Faculty will meet with each student who withdraws from a class due to personal or academic reasons. Students will
complete an “Exit Interview”.
If the student is eligible for readmission, faculty will provide academic counseling to the student and complete a “Faculty
Remediation” form. The original form will be given to the student and a copy will be placed in the student file. Students
should include a copy of the “Faculty Remediation” with their request for readmission.
B a c k g r o u n d C h e c k s a n d Dr u g S c r e e n s
Background checks and drug screens are a requirement of clinical facilities with which Truckee Meadows Community College
has a contract for nursing student clinical experience. If a student declines, or if the background or drug screen is
unsatisfactory to the facility, the student will not be permitted to participate in the clinical portion of the program. Students
are admitted to each course subject to the results of the background check and drug screen and acceptance at the clinical
site. Current students are advised that they will be withdrawn from the program if clinical requirements are not able to be
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Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program
Student Handbook
2015-2016
met for any reason. TMCC will not be responsible for obtaining background checks or drug screens and will not receive the
results of any investigations.
C h a n g e o f Na me , A d d r e s s a n d T e l e p h o n e Nu mb e r s
Any change of name, address or telephone number must be reported to the Admissions and Records Office as soon as the
change takes effect. The school needs telephone access to all students in case of emergency.
C i vi l i t y
Students are expected and required to conduct themselves in a courteous and polite manner in all areas of the campus,
college buildings, School of Sciences office area, faculty offices, clinical area, and with all personnel at all times. See the
Conduct, Honor Code and Professional Behavior (below).
C o mp l a i n t R e s o l u t i o n
The Truckee Meadows Community College Department of Nursing values the feedback from students and strives to address
all complaints/concerns immediately at the time of origin. All complaints/concerns are to be handled expeditiously and
considered confidential information.
Every effort is to be made to resolve complaints at the informal level with the nursing course faculty. In instances where
resolution is not obtained at the informal level, the nursing student/nursing faculty may proceed and file a formal written
complaint. (See “TMCC Student Complaint Form”)
The purpose of this procedure is to provide the student with a clearly defined method of dealing with academic problems
and/or concerns.
Informal Process
The informal procedure consists of discussing the problem or concern with the faculty member first. Additionally, depending
upon the nature of the problem, the problem may be discussed with the student’s counsellor. For a clinical component of a
nursing course, the concern may be discussed with the Clinical Coordinator. For concerns related to a theory component of
a nursing course, the concern may be discussed with any member of the Course Faculty Teaching Group. Problem solving
measures and recommendations for resolution will be discussed with the student and documented.
Any faculty receiving an informal complaint/concern should document it and submit the documentation to the Director of
Nursing.
Formal Process
If the student is not satisfied with the outcome, the student should then proceed and file a formal written complaint (see
"Student Process of Formal Complaint Resolution" form). The first step in the formal process is to contact the appropriate
course faculty or coordinator in writing within 10 days of the occurrence of the concern. It is important that the initial
contact is made via a letter and the student should retain a copy of all correspondence. Documentation should contain a
clear outline of the history of the problem including a review of the activities undertaken to try to rectify the problem. The
student will be notified in writing by the course coordinator with a response to the student’s concern within 21 academic
days from the initial complaint. If the student is not satisfied with the outcome, the student should then proceed to the
Director of Nursing.
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2015-2016
The second step is to contact the Director of Nursing within 10 days of receiving the course coordinator ruling. All materials
and communications from previous contacts in the procedure should be assembled by the student and forwarded to the
Director of Nursing with a cover letter. The cover letter should contain information which describes why the results of the
previous steps in this procedure were unsatisfactory and a statement which explains the resolution sought. The Director of
Nursing shall offer to meet with the student(s) within 14 academic days following the filing of an appeal, and the student(s)
shall have the opportunity to explain the circumstances surrounding the complaint/concern. The Director of Nursing will
issue a written ruling following the meeting. The notification to the student will occur in writing within 21 academic days
from the meeting.
If the student is still dissatisfied with the outcome following Step Two, the student may proceed with an appeal to the Dean,
School of Sciences. The Step Three appeal must occur within 10 academic days following the issuance of the response at
Step Two. The final step in this process is to assemble the materials from the beginning of the complaint process. A cover
letter is required summarizing each step and outcome of the process. The Dean shall offer to meet with the student within
21 academic days following the receipt of the appeal. The meeting shall be informal in nature. The student(s) shall have
the opportunity to explain the circumstances surrounding the complaint and the appeal. The Dean shall issue a response in
writing within 21 academic days following the meeting. The decision of the Dean shall be final.
C o n d u c t , P r o f e s s i o n a l B e h a vi o r a n d H o n o r C o d e
A student of the Truckee Meadows Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program is responsible for their own academic and professional
conduct. Any student who submits an examination or other academic work thereby certifies that the work is his/her own and
that he/she is unaware of any instance of violation of this code by himself or others.
Introduction
The nursing profession is one of the highest in distinction, honesty and integrity. These characteristics are essential for
members of this profession. The TMCC Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program requires all students to comply with standards
deemed appropriate for the nursing profession by the American Nurses’ Association, the National Student Nurses
Association, and those contained in the Truckee Meadows Community College Student Code of Conduct.
Student Conduct
Conduct with respect to nursing students can be considered under two general headings: academic and professional.
Misconduct involves a violation of academic or professional principles as viewed by students, faculty and colleagues.
Violations within these areas will be processed by the Nursing Program without regard to the sex, race, color, national or
ethnic origin, age, veteran status or disability of any of the participants. See also: TMCC Student Conduct Policy.
Academic Misconduct:
Academic misconduct is an offense generally defined as any action or inaction that is offensive to the integrity and honesty
of the members of the academic community. This offense includes, but is not limited to, the following:
•
Seeking, acquiring, receiving, or giving information about the conduct of an exam knowing that the release of such
information has not been authorized:
•
Plagiarizing;
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Student Handbook
•
2015-2016
Seeking, using, giving, or obtaining unauthorized assistance or information in any academic assignment or
examination;
•
Intentionally giving false information to professors or instructors for the purpose of gaining academic advantage;
•
Breach of any duties prescribed by this Code;
•
Intentionally giving false evidence in any hearing or refusing to give evidence when requested by the Nursing
Program.
Professional Misconduct:
Any action by students indicating dishonesty or lack of integrity in professional matters is considered a violation of
professional ethics. The offenses include, but are not limited to the following:
•
Discriminating on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin, age, disability, ancestry or sex in the
rendering of nursing services.
•
Performing acts beyond the scope of the practice of student nursing.
•
Assuming duties and responsibilities within the practice of student nursing without adequate training.
•
Assuming duties and responsibilities within the practice of student nursing if competency is not maintained or the
standards of competence are not satisfied, or both.
•
Failing to conduct oneself with honesty and integrity, taking responsibility for one’s own actions.
•
Disclosing the contents of the examination before, during or after its administration.
•
Assigning or delegating functions, tasks or responsibilities to unqualified persons.
•
Failing to safeguard a patient from the incompetent, abusive or illegal practice of any person.
•
Practicing student nursing while, with or without good cause, his physical, mental or emotional condition impairs his
ability to act in a manner consistent with established or customary nursing standard, or both.
•
Practicing student nursing if any amount of alcohol or a controlled substance or dangerous drug which is not legally
prescribed is present in the body of the nurse as determined by a test of the blood, saliva, breath or urine of the
nurse.
•
Having present in the body of the nurse or nursing assistant, alcohol or a controlled substance or dangerous drug
that is not legally prescribed during a test of the blood, saliva, breath or urine of the student nurse or nursing
assistant.
•
Failing to respect and maintain a patient's right to privacy.
•
Violation of a patient's confidentiality.
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•
2015-2016
Failing to report the gross negligence of a licensee or holder of a certificate in the performance of his duties or a
violation of the provisions of chapter 632 of NRS or this chapter.
•
Failing to document properly the administration of a controlled substance, including, but not limited to:
•
Failing to document the administration of a controlled substance on the Controlled Substance Administration Record,
the patient's Medication Administration Record and the Nursing Progress Notes, including the patient's response to
the medication;
•
Documenting as wastage a controlled substance and taking that controlled substance for personal or other use;
•
Failing to document the wastage of a controlled substance that was not legally administered to a patient;
•
Soliciting the signature on any record of a person as a witness to the wastage of a controlled substance when that
person did not witness the wastage; or
•
Signing any record as a witness attesting to the wastage of a controlled substance which he did not actually witness.
•
Soliciting services or soliciting or borrowing money, materials or other property or any combination thereof, from a:
patient; family member of patient; person with significant personal ties to a patient, whether or not related by
blood; or legal representative of a patient.
•
Diverting supplies, equipment or drugs for personal or unauthorized use.
•
Aiding, abetting or assisting any person in performing any acts prohibited by law.
•
Inaccurate recording, falsifying or otherwise altering or destroying records.
•
Leaving an assignment without properly notifying the appropriate personnel or abandoning a patient in need of care.
•
Failing to collaborate with other members of a health care team as necessary to meet the health needs of a patient.
•
Failing to observe the conditions, signs and symptoms of a patient, to record the information or to report significant
changes to the appropriate persons.
•
Failing to perform student nursing functions in a manner consistent with established or customary standards.
•
Causing a patient physical, mental or emotional harm by taking direct or indirect actions or failing to take
appropriate actions.
•
Failing to report the unauthorized practice of nursing.
•
Endangering the safety of the general public, patients, clients or coworkers by making actual or implied threats of
violence or carrying out an act of violence.
•
Abusing or neglecting a patient.
•
Misappropriating the property of a patient.
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2015-2016
•
Practicing outside the ethical, legal, & regulatory frameworks of nursing & standards of professional nursing practice.
•
Demonstrating lack of accountability for nursing care given by self and/or delegated to others.
•
Engaging in the practice of nursing without a license or certificate issued pursuant to the provisions of 632 of NRS.
•
Failing to follow clinical instructions and policies.
•
Representing self as student or acting as a student outside of clinical hours listed in course syllabus.
•
Leaving clinical premises without permission.
•
Accepting gifts from patients or clients.
•
Academic Honesty & Conduct Policy
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Counseling
Students should make an appointment with the TMCC Counseling Center to utilize any of the following services: Personal
Crisis Counseling, Student Support Programs, Diversity Support and EPY 101: Educational, Career and Personal
Development.
D i s a b i l i t y A c c o m m o d a t i o n s f o r Nu r s i n g S t u d e n t s
Reasonable accommodations and implementation of services are determined by the TMCC Disability Resource Center (DRC)
advisor, who will schedule support services. You must first make an appointment with the advisor. You will be required to
produce documentation describing your disability and any suggested accommodations requests before receiving services.
Students with documented disabilities will be accommodated to the extent that faculty can be available and fair with all
students. It is not possible to have a faculty available for student questions during the testing time, nor is that provided for
students in the classroom testing environment.
Students should present documentation of accommodations needed (from the DRC) at the beginning of the semester, or as
soon as they have received documentation of an approved accommodation through the DRC.
Accommodations for Testing
Students who have accommodations approved through the TMCC Disability Resource Center will be accommodated during
testing situations when possible and reasonable.
•
If accommodations are needed for testing, faculty will review the request and notify both the student and the DRC
about whether those can be made.
o
The DRC will be notified of the date and time of tests in writing at least one week in advance, email will
suffice.
•
o
To accommodate classroom test review, tests will normally start earlier and end at the same time.
o
Students who arrive late to testing will not receive additional time, just as in the classroom situation.
o
Under no circumstances is a test to be administered prior to the date and time scheduled.
o
Students may not negotiate changes to the time or date of testing separately with the DRC.
o
Arrangements for test site and proctoring will be the responsibility of the DRC office.
Students who need clarification or have questions during the test will not have the opportunity to seek out an
instructor.
o
Either DRC staff will hand carry the test and scantron to the instructor who is responsible for testing or the
instructor will go to the DRC to pick up the test and scantron.
Accommodations for Clinical
Students who have accommodations approved through the TMCC Disability Resource Center will be accommodated during
clinical situations when possible and reasonable.
•
If accommodations are needed for clinical situations, the Director of Nursing, the student, and the clinical instructor
will review the request.
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2015-2016
o
The DRC will be consulted for more information as needed.
o
The clinical agency will be consulted for ability to meet the needs if necessary.
o
In all cases, student and patient safety will be the priority.
D i s t r i b u t i o n o f F i n a l Co u r s e G r a d e s
Final course grades will be posted through Admission & Records at scheduled times or distributed to students as arranged by
course faculty. Students may be notified of final course grades through the Canvas learning management system prior to
the official notification by Admissions and Records, however, all final exams must have been taken prior to distribution of
final course grade, with the exception of short courses.
E l e c t r o n i c De vi c e s
Only calculators provided by faculty may be used during classroom exams. Cellular phones are not acceptable in the
classroom and must be turned off.
E xa m P o l i c y
Full text of the TMCC Nursing Program Exam Policy is located on our website.
F a c u l t y E va l u a t i o n s
All full and part-time faculty are evaluated each semester in all theory and clinical courses.
F o o d o r B e ve r a g e s
No food or beverage is allowed in any classroom. This applies to students and faculty (bottled clear water is the exception
but must be capped).
Grade Appeals
Students of the Nursing Program have access to TMCC’s Grade Appeals Process. Refer to the College’s policy in the College
Catalog and TMCC website.
H o l i d a ys
Nursing Program students will have all school holidays off, however if a holiday falls on a Monday, students are expected to
select clients and prepare to perform safely in clinical on Tuesday, as required by faculty. Please refer to the TMCC College
Catalog for the policy on religious holiday observations.
L e a r n i n g Re s o u r c e s
Library
The TMCC Library can assist you with class assignments and preparing for clinical experiences. Class assignments may
include independent use of interactive video materials, which are available in the computer lab or library. Students will be
required to present a current student ID (available from Starting Point) to check out any materials from the circulation desk.
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Tutoring and Learning Center
7000 Dandini Boulevard, VSTA B106
Reno, Nevada 89512-3999
http://tutoring.tmcc.edu
Services provided:
•
Paper submission to the Writing Center for review (30 minutes to 1 hour appointments depending on length of
paper) – APA style.
•
Workshops in Study Skills, Test Taking, and Communication (see website for schedule).
•
Certificate of attendance can be given to returning nursing students for whom the requirement is part of their
contract.
•
Smart Thinking: online accessible; each TMCC student has 10 hours of free access per semester. After the 10 hours,
student will have to pay out of pocket.
•
Summer schedule: Open with limited hours.
•
Medication Administration Proficiency Exams (MAPES): Specific Dimensional Analysis and Ratio & Proportion classes
for students struggling with MAPES .
•
Test-taking strategies on request.
Liability Insurance
All nursing students from TMCC are covered by NSHE liability insurance while in the clinical setting. The coverage is
applicable to students who function within their stated learning objectives and within the institution policies and procedures.
Students are accountable for all concepts and principles taught up to and including the current semester of education.
Medical Insurance
All students must show proof of major medical insurance coverage on or before the first day of each and every semester.
Students, who do not have coverage through a spouse or employment, may purchase medical insurance through private
companies. A list of those is available in the Health Sciences Office. Students must also notify the Health Sciences office of
any changes in coverage.
R e a d mi s s i o n
Full text of the TMCC Nursing Program Readmission Policy is located on our website.
Recording (Audio or Video)
The policy of the TMCC Nursing Department is that no recording is allowed in classes or clinical/clinical conferences without
the express permission of the instructor/faculty. This permission must be obtained prior to any recoding activity. There will
be no recording during (post) test review in order to maintain test integrity and security; no exceptions will be allowed
unless the recording is a reasonable accommodation for a student with a documented disability.
Any student found recording in violation of this policy might be subject to discipline, up to and including expulsion from the
Nursing Program.
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Required Documents
The following are required for all nursing students prior to attending any clinical rotation:
•
Documentation of negative background check and drug screen.
•
Documentation of current major medical health insurance.
•
Documentation of current immunization status.
•
A valid Healthcare Provider CPR card.
S o c i a l M e d i a a n d Ne t wo r k i n g
Full text of the TMCC Nursing Program Social Media and Networking Policy is located on our website.
S t u d e n t I n p u t i n t o P r o g r a m P r o c e s s e s a n d De c i s i o n Ma k i n g
Student Representatives
Student representatives are elected for each nursing cohort and provide a liaison role to faculty and administration. Each
nursing cohort is encouraged to select representatives during the first nursing class and determine how they will function
within the class.
Representatives gather information from students about current issues and concerns and attend the first 15 minutes of each
faculty meeting to present any general issues and receive any clarification needed from faculty. A follow up plan is created
for concerns that can’t be immediately resolved.
Representatives may also be asked to attend student conferences as an advocate or participate on student appeals hearings
when appropriate.
Learning Communities
Each cohort of nursing students becomes a learning community – they are students who share common interests, emotions,
values and beliefs and are actively engaged in learning together. They learn from each other, partly to repeated interactions
with each other. Learning community cohorts of nursing students are encouraged to schedule at least monthly meetings to
address common issues.
Transportation
Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from school and clinical facilities. Some clinical facilities may
require as much as 50 minutes traveling time from campus.
Weather
Clinical Courses
In the event that the Dandini and/or Redfield Campus is closed or has a late start, clinical schedules will be adjusted based
on the plan that has been specified in the course syllabus for each clinical course.
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Theory Courses
Refer to course syllabi for specific instructions. Information regarding any campus closure is available on the TMCC website
by 6 a.m. and on local TV news.
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Section V – Clinical and Laborator y Policies
A p p e a l o f W i t h d r a wa l f o r Un s a f e Cl i n i c a l P r a c t i c e o r Un p r o f e s s i o n a l
B e h a vi o r
Step One
The student wishing to appeal a clinical failure (withdrawal) for unsafe clinical practice as defined in the Maxine S. Jacobs
Nursing Program Handbook, or violation of nursing practice should file a formal written appeal. The first step in the formal
process is to provide a letter to the clinical faculty within 7 days of the occurrence of the concern. It is important that the
initial letter includes a written statement of appeal as well as a cover letter. It is suggested that the student retain a copy of
all correspondence. The letter should contain a clear outline of the history of the incident(s) including a review of the
problem and actions taken to avoid or resolve it. The student(s) will be notified of the decision in writing by the clinical
instructor within 7 calendar days from the date of the letter.
Step Two
If not satisfied, the student should submit the appeal to the Clinical Coordinator, if the clinical instructor is not the level
coordinator. The Nursing faculty advisor may be consulted as well. The student will be notified of the decision by the clinical
coordinator within 7 calendar days.
Step Three
If the student is not satisfied they may contact the Director of Nursing within 10 days of receiving the course coordinator
ruling. All materials and communications from previous contacts in the procedure should be assembled by the student and
forwarded to the Director of Nursing with a cover letter. The cover letter should contain information which describes the
situation in detail as well as the resolution sought.
The Director of Nursing will convene a committee composed of no more than 5 faculty other than the clinical instructor and
the level course coordinator. The committee should include at least one senior (tenured) faculty. In addition, one student
will be selected from those who have expressed an interest in serving on an appeals committee. The student will be from
outside the level. A graduate student may also be invited. He or she will be a voting member.
The committee will provide the student and the clinical faculty an opportunity to discuss the circumstances surrounding the
incident. The Director of Nursing will be a nonvoting member unless there is a tie. The committee will issue a dedcision
following the meeting. Notification to the student will occur in writing within 7 calendar days from the meeting. The decision
of the committee will be final.
The following sanctions may be imposed:
•
Verbal reprimand without an entry on the student's personal performance record;
•
Written reprimand with an entry on the student's personal performance record;
•
"F" in the course on his/her permanent transcript;
•
Such combination of sanctions or other sanction as may appear appropriate; or,
•
Dismissal or denial of re-entry.
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Clinical and Laboratory Policies
The clinical laboratory session is a learning opportunity where the student is expected to utilize all resources to extend the
learning experience.
During the clinical laboratory class, or at any other times, students may not practice invasive procedures on other students.
Simulations and models are used for invasive procedure skills practice.
During some experiences, such as physical assessment, students may be expected to act as models. If a student has any
objection to providing this experience, they should notify the instructor immediately so that an alternate experience can be
provided.
As opportunity permits, clinical instructors facilitate student responsibility for learning, encouraging or requiring such
activities as student participation in the selection of learning experiences, sharing of personal learning goals, keeping an
“anecdotal” record of nursing behaviors and skills, and self-evaluation of one’s clinical performance.
Individual instructors, prior to each clinical rotation, give specific instructions regarding preparation for scheduled clinical lab
and simulation lab sessions. Unless otherwise noted, students are expected to prepare for client assignments on their own
time interviewing the client and planning for care the day prior to the scheduled clinical experience. While doing clinical
“prep,” students are not to do any type of “hands on” care or assessment with clients.
The clinical laboratory experience may begin with a pre-conference. During the pre-conference, general instructions may be
given, and the student is assisted to plan or meet individual client needs. Student preparation for client care is also
evaluated during the pre-conference.
Clinical sessions may conclude with a post-conference, during which time is usually spent sharing learning experiences. Such
sharing is part of developing professional communication skills.
Invasive or Sterile Procedures
Clinical Faculty must be present during any invasive procedure, sterile procedure, or wound management procedure; the
first time a student performs the procedure. Faculty will determine when a staff RN may supervise students.
Students are expected to perform safely in all areas of client care. Any performance, which endangers a client's well-being,
may result in the student’s removal from the clinical lab.
Any student who, in the judgment of the faculty, does not demonstrate appropriate preparation for client assignment will
be:
•
Directed to the college skills lab, skills CD ROMs, hospital library or college computer lab for additional preparation
and/or sent home.
•
Excluded from that clinical/laboratory session.
Students will be expected to function according to stated hospital policies relation to parking, use of cafeteria, nursing
measures, uniform requirements, and routines established for the nursing unit.
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Students are evaluated mid-way through each clinical rotation as well as at the conclusion of the clinical rotation. Final
evaluations are completed by the clinical faculty and available to the student on the clinical tracking website.
Each clinical course has a Clinical Performance Evaluation Tool that is found on the clinical tracking website. It is the
student’s responsibility to be aware of the clinical objectives and behaviors to be evaluated. Students are encouraged to
schedule appointments with their instructors as needed to discuss their progress in the program. All faculty create and post
a schedule office hours during which time they are available to assist students.
Unsafe Behavior/Misconduct
At the discretion of the instructor, any student who does not perform nursing interventions safely, in accordance with
instruction (for example, the administration of medication) may be considered unsafe and excluded from the clinical area. A
student permanently excluded from the clinical site because of unsafe nursing behavior shall fail the course, or may
withdraw, in accordance with college policy.
Accident or Emergency Regulations
It is the student’s responsibility to know what the appropriate policies and regulations are regarding each clinical site for
handling of accidents, emergency situations, and fire regulations during the period of rotation at each site.
Reporting of Incidents and Injury
If a student is involved in an incident with a client, a TMCC student Accident Form must be completed immediately. Incident
reports must also be completed according to each agency’s policy. Specific TMCC forms are available in the Program
Handbook. If the student incurs an injury, an institution Accident Form must be filed immediately with the clinical instructor
and agency. Students should be aware that some facilities require immediate drug screening.
Cellular Phones
There are no personal cellular phones, or laptop computers allowed in operation in the clinical setting at any time.
Phone Calls
Students are not to use telephones on the units to make or receive personal phone calls. If a student needs to be located
regarding an emergency, contact the Health Science office at 673-7115 between 8:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. The Nursing
Administrative staff will then notify the clinical instructor who will find you. Prior to 8:00 A.M. and after 5:00 P.M., students
may have the person phone or page their clinical instructor.
Electronic Equipment
Standard calculators may be used in the clinical setting only.
C l i n i c a l A s s i g n m e n t s / Fa c i l i t i e s
Clinical instruction is provided throughout the program in conjunction with classroom theory. This instruction is provided in
various locations, such as on campus, at local hospitals, long-term care facilities, doctors’ offices and other community
facilities. Because of limited clinical placements, it is not possible to assign a student specific clinical time or locations due to
work assignments. Students should therefore not schedule a work assignment on a clinical day (Tuesday or Wednesday).
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Students may be assigned to day, evening or night times for clinical rotations. Clinical assignment changes will only be
made to avoid conflicts in Nursing Program degree requirements.
C l i n i c a l Dr e s s C o d e
When students are in a clinical setting, they are representatives of TMCC and the Nursing Program. It is expected that the
student will act and dress in a professional manner. The word “professional” can be interpreted differently by each of us. In
this context, it is expected that the student will be dressed in clean, neat, tidy and conservative clothing when acting in a
student capacity. Students must also comply with the dress policy for each institution. The dress policy for students at times
other than clinical experience (or classroom attendance) is as follows:
•
TMCC photo ID Badge identifying student status to be worn any time a student is functioning as a student in places
other than TMCC. Students must attach their ID Badges to the uniform—no lanyards are acceptable except those
that retract—no logos.
•
Clothing clean, neat, free from stains, rips or wrinkles.
•
Shoes clean and polished, no sandals allowed, closed toed and heels required.
•
During pre-clinical and client selection street clothing may be worn covered by lab coat, which is clean, unstained,
and in good condition. Students may wear their school uniform in place of a lab coat. No tank tops, T-shirts, jeans of
any color, sweat pants, shorts, leggings, spandex, stretch pants or colored underwear are allowed. A clean white top
may be worn under uniform top.
•
No chewing gum (class or clinical)
•
No chewing of tobacco products of any type (class or clinical)
•
All students must have with them at all clinical: a working watch with a second hand, a stethoscope and program
required current drug book(s) for example, a general and intravenous medication resource book, or student will be
sent home.
Hair
Hair must be worn so it does not interfere with client care (short or fastened back). Long hair must be conservative in style,
held away from the face in a ponytail or bun, and clean with no ribbons, decorated hair clips or scarves. Hair must be neatly
combed and well groomed. No fluorescent or unusual colors will be allowed.
Beards/Mustaches
Beards/mustaches must be clean, short and neatly trimmed. Males without full beards must be clean-shaven (no “five
o’clock shadow”) when in the clinical area. In the event a student has a mustache and or goatee, the remainder of facial hair
should be clean-shaven.
Rings/Jewelry/Piercings
A watch with a second hand is required. A wedding band is allowed. Jewelry may not be such that it could be a safety
hazard. No facial or oral jewelry permitted with the exception of one small post earring in each ear lobe. No bracelets on
wrists or ankles. No multiple rings on multiple fingers. No ear cuffs.
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Tattoos
All tattoos are to be covered when in the clinical or laboratory setting. Tattoos can be covered by cosmetics, adhesive
bandages, or approved clothing.
Cosmetics
Light make-up, if desired. No perfume, cologne or after-shave. Basic cleanliness is expected. All visible tattoos must be
covered.
Fingernails
Fingernails must be kept clean, neat and of moderate length. No nail polish is to be worn. No decorations. No artificial
fingernails.
Uniforms
The TMCC Nursing clinical uniform consists of:
•
Hunter green uniform shirt
•
Hunter green pants
•
White Consultation Jacket from approved vendor
Footwear
White leather shoes without colored decoration and with good support must be worn. Shoes must be kept in good repair at
all times. Clean, polished, no shoes with open back or straps and/or open toes. Flesh colored or white-hose to be worn with
dresses/pants. White socks only are to be worn with pants.
Photo Identification
A student photo ID will be required for entry to any clinical site. It is the student’s responsibility to obtain the TMCC photo ID
card during the scheduled opportunities. Students must attach their ID Badges to the uniform—no lanyards are acceptable
except those that retract, no logos or company names.
Gloves
Gloves will be provided only for on campus practice labs. When specialized gloves are needed by the student, it is the
responsibility of the student to obtain and maintain a personal supply.
Clinical Equipment
A stethoscope, penlight, bandage scissors, ink pen (black) and safety glasses are required as part of the clinical uniform.
These items may be purchased at any of the local uniform shops.
"Fanny packs" are allowed.
No stethoscope covers are allowed.
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Notes
•
The student uniform may not be worn while students are working for pay.
•
The clinical instructor has the discretion to request conformity to specific uniform/apparel outside the listed items.
These may vary from one instructor to another. This may be dependent on agency unit regulation.
•
Students not complying with the instructor’s request will be excluded from clinical until in conformance.
•
The clinical instructor’s judgment regarding appropriateness of student dress will prevail.
Confidentiality
Confidentiality is both a legal and ethical concern in nursing practice. Confidentiality is the protection of private information
gathered about a client during the provision of health care services. It is the nurse’s responsibility to safeguard the client’s
right to privacy by protecting information of a confidential nature.
The TMCC Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program expects that all nursing students and faculty will protect the privacy rights,
including maintaining confidentiality, of all clients.
It is expected that students and faculty will not:
•
Discuss the care of clients with anyone not involved in the client’s direct care.
•
Discuss the care of clients in any public setting.
•
Remove any actual/copied client records from the clinical setting (this includes computer printout information).
•
Use the client’s name on any written form or notation (initials only)
•
Access or attempt to access confidential patient records from another computer or computer system.
The ability to adhere to ethical and legal standards within the practice of nursing is a terminal objective for graduates of
TMCC’s Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program. One method of assessing the student’s ability to meet this competency standard
is through clinical evaluation. The performance criteria are found on the clinical evaluation tool. The student’s ability to meet
these performance criteria is assessed in each clinical rotation. Failure to maintain the client confidentiality could result in
the reduction of a student’s clinical grade, a written reprimand or dismissal from the program.
With computerization of health records comes a greater risk of breaking or breaching this confidentiality. Concepts such as
confidentiality (HIPPA), nurse-client or physician-client privilege are introduced at the beginning of the program, and these
concepts are reinforced at mandatory orientation and by faculty in both theory and clinical courses. An orientation to HIPPA
(Health Insurance Privacy and Portability Act) is given at the mandatory orientation each academic year.
M e d i c a t i o n A d mi n i s t r a t i o n P o l i c y
Full text of the TMCC Nursing Program Medication Administration Policy is located on our website.
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P a t h o g e n E xp o s u r e
Students
The purpose of this procedure is to reduce the risk of student exposure to air and body substance pathogens such as, but
not limited to, Tuberculosis, SARS, Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), Hepatitis C Virus (HBC), and the Human Immunodeficiency Virus
(HIV).
Standard Precautions
Standard Precautions is an approach to infection control that requires the application of blood and body fluid precautions for
all patients and patient specimens regardless of diagnosis. Standard precautions will be the minimum standard of practice
throughout the Truckee Meadows Community College Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program.
Methods of Compliance
Students must become familiar and comply with the Pathogen Exposure procedure and process. Students must also become
familiar and comply with the exposure plan of the clinical sites to which they are assigned.
Prevention of Exposure or Incident
Students are not to select, care for, or be assigned to clients in respiratory isolation for either TB or SARS.
Students are required to participate annually in a Blood Borne Pathogen Exposure Prevention and Control Class. The
student must also have satisfactorily demonstrated skill in using protective equipment and procedures before receiving a
patient care assignment.
Students must have documented immunity to hepatitis B, measles, rubella, varicella, diphtheria, prior to going to any
clinical site. Students must receive annual influenza vaccinations.
Students who have received formal classroom instruction in blood borne pathogen exposure control and can satisfactorily
demonstrate knowledge and skills requisite to such care are expected to accept clinical assignments in order to meet the
clinical course objectives.
The decision to exempt a student from clinical experience will be made on a case-by-case basis by the faculty responsible for
the clinical course.
All students must have major medical insurance upon entering and throughout their enrollment in the Nursing Program. It is
the student’s responsibility to obtain and pay for this insurance, as well as to understand the benefits and limitations of any
insurance policy they maintain or is maintained on their behalf.
Occurrence of Exposure or Incident
A student in the Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program who has exposure to blood or body fluid or other potentially infectious
material to non-intact skin or mucous membranes from any source must immediately:
•
Wash needle-stick and/or cuts with soap and water.
•
Flush splashes to the nose, mouth, or skin with copious amounts of water.
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•
Irrigate eyes with clean water, saline, or sterile irrigants.
•
Remove soiled personal protective equipment and/or clothing as soon as possible.
2015-2016
After washing, flushing and/or irrigating the exposed area, the student must immediately:
•
Notify the appropriate registered nurse at the clinical facility AND
•
Notify clinical faculty who will then implement the process below.
•
(If there is a witness to the incident, several steps can be taken simultaneously)
The Clinical Faculty will be responsible for coordinating the procedures needed to get appropriate care for the student.
The Clinical Faculty will:
•
Identify the source of the exposure.
•
Obtain stat physician’s order for needle stick exposure panel if a needle-stick.
•
Obtain consent from source client, if not in chart.
•
Determine who will be the health care provider for the student for counseling and treatment if needed.
•
Obtain phone number and name of student and the health care provider, and provide this information to the
contacts listed below.
•
Normally the labs will be run STAT and reported to the contacts as listed.
•
Provide the student with contact information to obtain source testing results (normally Employee Health).
•
Send the student to their health care provider to obtain medical evaluation and post-exposure follow-up within 1 to
2 hours of the exposure (except as noted below for the VAMC).
•
Medical evaluation may be at the healthcare facility of the clinical agency; with a private healthcare provider; at an
urgent care facility; or at an emergency room.
•
Student should bring a copy of the documents with as much completed information as possible to the health care
provider. They should also have the contact number for source information (normally the Employee Health Office)
so that the health care provider may obtain results.
•
Initiate the documentation needed for TMCC, and the clinical agency.
Clinical Agencies
•
Carson Tahoe Regional Medical Center
o
•
Northern Nevada Medical Center
o
•
•
775-445-8000
Notify the Emergency Department at 356-4040. After hours notify the House Supervisor.
Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center
o
Notify Employee Health at 770-3525. After hours call the House Supervisor.
o
Medications are available if needed for a one day period of time.
Veteran’s Administration Medical Center
o
Notify Infection Prevention at 786-7200, extension 1374.
o
NOTE: The VAMC will evaluate the student at Employee Health and provide counseling and any needed
treatment.
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•
2015-2016
Renown Regional Health System
o
Notify Employee Health at Renown Regional Medical Center.
o
After hours call the Health Hotline at 982-5757 select Option 1 to speak to the nurse.
o
If treatment is needed, medications are available through the House Supervisor for a maximum 3 day
supply.
NOTE: The National HIV/AIDS Center provides a PEPline, a Clinicians’ Post-Exposure Prophylaxis Hotline which offers up-to
the minute advice on managing occupational exposures (needlesticks, etc.) to HIV, hepatitis and other blood borne
pathogens. It is offered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-888-448-4911.
There is also a Clinician’s Consultation Center that is free of charge. This Warmline is staffed by physicians, clinical
pharmacists and nurse practitioners Monday through Friday from 5:00 am to 5:00 pm Pacific Time at 1-800-933-3413.
Documentation and Follow-up
STUDENT AND FACULTY:
•
Complete an incident report at the clinical facility, and be aware of and follow any reporting and follow-up
requirements of the clinical facility.
•
Complete a TMCC Injury Report.
•
Notify the Director of Nursing of the incident as quickly as possible.
•
It is the student’s responsibility to make his/her healthcare provider aware of the results of any blood panel drawn
as a result of an exposure.
•
It is the student’s responsibility to follow-up with any counseling recommended by his/her healthcare provider as a
result of an exposure.
•
It is the student’s responsibility to follow-up with any treatment recommended by his/her healthcare provider as a
result of an exposure.
•
The student has financial responsibility for any cost associated with evaluation, treatment and/or counseling that
results from an exposure.
•
The clinical facility will collect as much information as possible from the source patient following an exposure.
•
While the College will make every effort to maintain confidentiality, the College cannot be held responsible for acts
and omissions of the clinical agency.
Patient Safety
Background
Patient safety is the minimizing of risk of harm to patients and providers through both system effectiveness and individual
performance.
Nursing
Nursing is the protection, promotion, and optimization of health and abilities, prevention of illness and injury, alleviation of
suffering through diagnosis and treatment of human response, and advocacy in the care of individuals, families,
communities, and populations” (ANA, 2004).
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Critical Thinking
According to Ebright et al. (2005), as cited in Cronenwet et al. (2007) several factors related to safety influence a nurse’s
ability to make logical and accurate decisions:

Knowledge base

Attention

Barriers to care (like workplace obstacles)

Number of tasks

Missing essential information

Behaviors not encouraging of productive thought
Nursing Process
The nursing process is the basis of all clinical judgments and includes all dealings made by nurses in providing care to
patients. Considerations for culture, safety, education, health and wellness, patient care, self-health promotion, and
planning for long-term health maintenance are included in nursing measures. (Potter et al, 2005 as cited in Cronenwet et al.
2007). Nurses perform clinical decision-making using the nursing process as a framework. Overall, it is a problem-solving
activity focusing on recognizing and defining patient issues and selecting appropriate interventions (Ebright et al., 2005) as
cited in Cronenwet et al. (2007).
Complexity of Nurse W ork
Due to the increasingly complex nature of the role of nurses and increasing patient acuity, everyday nursing duties are also
a challenge in protecting the safety of every patient. Ebright et al, (2005), as cited in Cronenwet et al. (2007) found the
following factors related to safety of delivering patient care:
•
Variety of supply locations
•
Locating supplies when not found in designated areas or not adequately stocked
•
Repetitive travel (to patient’s rooms, nurse’s stations, supply locations, etc.)
•
Unexpected situations, interruptions and distractions
•
Pauses to wait for system services (computers or medication carts)
•
Inadequate resource access for further care and new procedures
•
Miscommunication
•
Errors due to handwriting and labeling
Student nurses are expected to be able to delineate general categories of errors and hazards in care and communicate
observations or concerns related to hazards and errors to patients, families and the health care team Students develop
patient assessment skills which are taught throughout the program and gain increasing skill in determining variations from
normal that affect patient safety. Some areas are very significant in ensuring patient safety in a hospital setting: mobility,
level of awareness, critical condition and mental state:
Students and all healthcare providers should wash their hands or use a hand sanitizer before and after each patient
interaction.
Page 42 of 46
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Rev.: 8/14/2015
Truckee Meadows Community College
Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program
Student Handbook
2015-2016
Students comply with medication administration policies and procedures which stress safe medication administration,
focusing on the following “rights:”
Knowledge skills and attitudes that emphasize the importance of standardization and
safety enhancing technologies
Knowledge
Skills
Attitudes
Examine human factors and
other basic safety design
principles as well as commonly
used unsafe practices (i.e.,
workarounds and dangerous
abbreviations)
Demonstrate effective use of
technology and standardized
practices that support safety
and quality such as sterile
procedures and pressure ulcer
prevention.
Value the contributions of
standardization and reliability
to safety.
Describe the benefits and
limitations of selected safetyenhancing technologies (such
as, barcodes, Computer
Provider Order Entry,
medication pumps and
automatic alerts/alarms).
Use appropriate strategies to
reduce reliance on memory
(such as systematic
organizational tools and
checklists).
Appreciate the cognitive and
physical limits of human
performance.
Discuss effective strategies to
reduce reliance on memory.
Page 43 of 46
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Rev.: 8/14/2015
Truckee Meadows Community College
Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program
Student Handbook
2015-2016
Investigating incidents
The Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program and health care facilities have a process for investigating incidents.
The following knowledge, skills and attitudes are reinforced by the faculty:
Knowledge
Skills
Attitudes
Describe factors that create a
culture of safety (such as, open
communication strategies and
organizational error reporting
systems).
Use organizational error
reporting systems for near
miss and error reporting.
Value own role in preventing
errors.
Describe processes used in
understanding causes of error
and allocation of responsibility
and accountability (such as,
root cause analysis and failure
mode effects analysis).
Participate appropriately in
analyzing errors and designing
system improvements.
Value vigilance and monitoring
(even of own performance of
care activities) by patients,
families, and other members
of the health care team.
Engage in root cause analysis
rather than blaming when
errors or near misses occur.
Discuss potential and actual
impact of national patient
safety resources, initiatives
and regulations
Use National Patient Safety
resources for own professional
development and to focus
attention on safety in car
settings.
Value relationship between
current National Safety
Campaigns and
implementation in local
practices and practice settings.
R e p o r t i n g S e n t i n e l E ve n t s t o t h e Ne va d a S t a t e B o a r d o f Nu r s i n g ( NS B N )
All Sentinel Events affecting patient safety are reported to the Nevada State Board of Nursing.
A sentinel event is an unexpected occurrence involving death or serious physical or psychological injury, or the risk thereof.
Serious injury specifically includes loss of limb or function. The phrase “or the risk thereof” includes any process variation for
which a recurrence would carry a significant chance of a serious adverse outcome (2007, The Joint Commission).
U n s a f e o r Un s a t i s f a c t o r y W o r k
The instructor will assess and evaluate patterns and/or unsafe behaviors to determine degree of risk to the client. The
student will be informed of instances of unsafe behavior.
Page 44 of 46
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Rev.: 8/14/2015
Truckee Meadows Community College
Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program
Student Handbook
2015-2016
The following may be grounds for dismissal from the Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program:
•
Unacceptable clinical behavior
o
Immediate dismissal from the Nursing Program may occur at any time when client’s safety is in jeopardy.
The student may also be informed of unsafe clinical behavior first by a verbal warning then a written warning
and dismissal from the program may follow.
•
Excessive absences or tardiness
o
Tardiness and/or absences can seriously interfere with a student’s learning process. At the point when
absences/tardiness becomes a concern, endangering a student’s progress, a contractual agreement will be
established between student and faculty, outlining specific behavior expected in order for the student to
complete the course.
•
Inability to successfully complete courses
o
If a student is unable to successfully complete a course for any of the following reasons, they may be
dropped or be given a failing grade depending upon:

The amount of content/clinical lab experience missed.

Inability to proceed due to lack of successfully completing a prerequisite in the sequence listed.
•
Inability to adjust to stress adequately to perform duties safely with clients
•
Inability to apply the necessary knowledge to perform the following duties with clients
o
Identify the client (identiband or in the absence of an identiband, the procedure as established within specific
units, i.e., psych, critical care, burn, labor and delivery, peds,) properly.
o
•
Provide care within acceptable standards of care for students.
Inability to accept responsibility for consequences of one’s own behavior
o
Validate with instructor rationale for action when contrary to classroom instruction.
o
Decline assignments made by staff when that assignment is inconsistent with objectives or expectations for
level of student.
o
Adhere to policies regarding scheduled medications, i.e., never possess narcotics key without supervision nor
access electronic medication delivery system (PIXIS, DIEBOLD) without supervision.
•
Inability to demonstrate responsibility for client care by notifying the instructor and clinical faculty in
the event of an absence or tardiness
•
•
•
Inability to demonstrate acceptable working relationships
o
Answers call lights.
o
Relate appropriately with others (client, families, instructors, staff, peers, etc.)
Inability to demonstrate fairness and straight forwardness in conduct
o
Free from fraud or deception
o
Maintain client confidentiality.
o
Report errors and unsafe conditions.
Inability to consistently receive, interpret, and carry out instructions
Page 45 of 46
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Rev.: 8/14/2015
Truckee Meadows Community College
Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program
Student Handbook
2015-2016
Section VI – Graduation and RN Licensure
Pinning Ceremony
The TMCC Nursing Pinning Ceremony is held to recognize those students who are graduating with the AAS Nursing degree.
The ceremony is held on Thursday prior to TMCC’s graduation. If there is no graduation scheduled, it is held on the Thursday
prior to the day that grades are due.
The TMCC Nursing Pinning Ceremony is a campus sponsored event, and must comply with all campus policies and
requirements regarding events held on campus.
The ceremony will be held in the V. James Eardley Student Center. Students may invite as many guests as they desire,
subject to the maximum room capacity. The Director of Nursing may invite other attendees. Room fire code restrictions and
capacity issues will preside if more attendees are present than can be accommodated.
The Pinning Events and Pinning Ceremony Program is provided to students for an example but changes must be approved
by the Director of Nursing. Nursing faculty will pin the students. Students may not choose the faculty who pin them.
Students who do not purchase pins will get a ribbon. Each student will be requested to provide a written statement of thanks
or appreciation that will be read by a faculty member while they are being pinned by another faculty. This statement should
be short and tasteful, generally less than 75 words, typed on a 5X7 card, with the student’s name at the top.
Students select the student speakers. All funds donated for pinning will be sent to the Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program
and deposited into the student fund. Access to funds for pinning will be through the administrative assistants and follow
Controller’s Office guidelines for reimbursement, if needed.
L i c e n s u r e a s a R e g i s t e r e d Nu r s e
Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program graduates are eligible to apply for licensure in the state of their choice. TMCC Nursing
Department must be notified if the state is not Nevada, since each state has specific criteria for licensure eligibility
requirements. Some graduates elect to take the NCLEX licensing examination in Nevada and then apply for out of state
licensure. It is the student’s responsibility to contact the state of their choice to ascertain eligibility requirements. Each state
board of nursing determines requirements for licensure. Graduation from an accredited program is only one of the
requirements and does not mean automatic licensure as a nurse.
Graduates should be aware that the State of Nevada licensure application contains five questions, which may impact their
ability to obtain licensure in Nevada. These five questions have to do with:
•
Revocation, denial, or suspension of a license or certificate,
•
Conviction of a criminal offense,
•
Problems with drug or alcohol use,
•
Treatment for mental illness, and
•
Physical disability which could impair ability to practice nursing.
For further clarification, students/graduates should contact the program director or the Nevada State Board of Nursing at
702-486-5800 or 1-888-590-6726 (Toll Free).
Page 46 of 46
TMCC is an EEO/AA institution. See http://eeo.tmcc.edu for more information.
Rev.: 8/14/2015