HOUSTON COMMUNITY COLLEGE SYSTEM
ASSOCIATE DEGREE NURSING PROGRAM
Center of Excellence
STUDENT NURSES
HANDBOOK
2020-2021
A student handbook designed as a reference for information about official Associate Degree
Nursing Program requirements, policies and procedures, and as a supplement to the Houston
Community College Systems Student Handbook and the Houston Community College
Catalog.
Revised January 2020
2017
Houston Community College Board of Trustees
Robert Glaser
Eva L. Loredo
Rhonda Skillern-Jones
Monica Flores Richart
Dr. Adriana Tamez
Dr. Reagan Flowers
Dr. John P. Hansen
Dr. Cynthia Lenton- Gary
Dr. Pretta VanDible Stallworth
Chancellor
Cesar Maldonado, Ph.D., P.E., PMP
President
Phillip Nicotera, MS. Ed., M.D.
Dean of Health Sciences, Center of Excellence
Jeff Gricar, Ed.D, M.Ed., CPhT, PhTR
Dean of Nursing, Center of Excellence
Donna Spivey, DNP, RN, CEN
Program Director, A.D.N. Program
Tyrone Sharp, Ph.D., RN
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2017
Accreditation
Established in 1979, the Associate Degree in Nursing (A.D.N.) program offers a
curriculum leading to an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing.
The A.D.N. Program is accredited by the following agencies:
The Texas Higher Education Coordinating
Board
1200 E Anderson Ln. Austin, TX 78752
Phone: (512) 427-6101
Website: http://www.thecb.state.tx.us/
Texas Board of Nursing
333 Guadalupe St. #3-460
Austin, TX 78701
Phone: (512) 305-7400
Website: http://www.bon.texas.gov/
Houston Community College Associate Degree Nursing Education program is fully
approved.
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2017
WELCOME
WELCOME to Houston Community College’s Department of Nursing! We are delighted that you
have chosen to join the exciting and ever changing world of nursing. This handbook is designed to
help guide you through the nursing program. Within this handbook you will find various policies and
procedures followed to help you through the educational process. You will be expected to follow the
policies and procedures contained in this handbook. Nurses are unique individuals who are an integral
part of the healthcare team. Nurses have been one of the most trusted professionals for many years.
Therefore, it is imperative that you learn to be the most educated, caring, safe practitioner possible. It
is our hope and expectation that this is the first stepping stone in your career and that you will become
a lifelong learner and continue your education both formally and informally. Again, welcome to the
most exciting and demanding career you could ever want. It is our hope that you will avail yourself to
every opportunity to learn all things offered in this program. WELCOME ABOARD!
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2017
Hardship Statement
“Any student who faces challenges securing their food or housing and believes this may
affect their performance in the course is urged to contact the Dean of Students for
support. Furthermore, please notify the professor if you are comfortable in doing so.
This will enable us to provide any resources that HCC may possess.”
The A.D.N. program reserves the right to change the following:
1. Schedule adjustments in the RNSG (theory, skills, and clinical) courses currently
in the curriculum
2. Instructional fees
3. Calendar schedules
4. Pinning ceremony procedures
5. Delivery of course content
The A.D.N. Program also reserves the right to modify other existing student requirements
and regulations without previous notice. Such changes will apply to both future students
and to students who are currently enrolled in the A.D.N. Program.
Houston Community College System does not discriminate on the basis of race, color,
religion, national origin, sex, age, or handicap.
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2017
Table of Contents
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2017
INTRODUCTION
Mission, Vision, and Philosophy
Mission Statement
The Associate Degree Nursing Faculty at Coleman College for Health Sciences is committed
to upholding the mission of the Houston Community College by establishing a learning
environment that promotes the development of nursing values, to provide excellence in
nursing education, to foster preparation of students to work in a collaborative environment
and to cultivate a life-long pursuit of learning.
Vision Statement
Our vision is congruent with the vision of Houston Community College Coleman College for
Health Careers which is as follows: (The vision of HCC Coleman College is to be the
preeminent health sciences community college in the nation, preparing students for today's
health science careers, and a lifetime of learning.)
Philosophy
The philosophy of the Associate Degree Nursing Program represents the belief that nursing is
an applied science using the principles of evidence based practice and patient-centered care
to assist individuals and families to meet their health care needs as they progress through the
life span.
The faculty prepares the Associate Degree nursing student in the practice of nursing through
a comprehensive educational curriculum. Experiences are planned in diverse health care
settings. The nursing program strives to build on each student's prior experience. Learning
becomes more effective when the learner is an active participant. The nursing role is
characterized by the utilization of a systematic, problem-solving approach: a caring
relationship; and commitment to continuing education and professionalism in practice.
Throughout the curriculum, students are provided with experiences which prepare them to
care for clients and families with common and complex well-defined health problems. The
role of the Associate Degree nurse encompasses four areas: member of the profession,
provider of patient-centered care, advocate of patient safety, and active member of the health
care team. (www.bon.tx.gov.)
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2017
Program Goals
The goal of the Associate Degree Nursing program is to prepare graduates who are eligible to
take the licensure exam and are able to work collectively and collaboratively with other
members of the health care team to provide safe, competent patient centered care in a variety
of health care settings.
Program Outcomes
1. Associate Degree Nursing Graduate first time NCLEX pass rates will be at or above
the required 80% per the TBON rule 215.4 ( c )(2).
2. Program completion rate: Student retention will be 80% or higher within 150% of the
time from entry into the program.
3. Program Satisfaction: 80% of the Graduates will report satisfaction (3.0 or above
mean rating on Associate Degree Graduate exit survey) with the preparation for
nursing practice provided by the program.
4. Employer satisfaction: 80% of employers of graduates will report satisfaction (3.0 or
above mean rating on employer survey) with the competency of graduates as defined
by the student learning outcomes and graduate competencies.
5. Job Placements: 80% or more of graduates will be employed within six months of the
program completion as Registered Nurse.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon graduation, students will be able to:
1. Communicate effectively with patients, families, and members of the health-care team.
2. Utilize a systematic problem-solving approach in caring for patients with common and
complex needs.
3. Demonstrate appropriate entry level Associate Degree Nursing Program didactic
competencies to pass the NCLEX-RN licensure exam.
4. Demonstrate safe entry level nursing practice as defined by the four roles of the
Differentiated Essential Competencies of Graduate of Texas Nursing Programs (DECs).
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2017
Faculty-Student Responsibilities
Faculty:
Provide course content information, requirements, and grading procedures in
writing.
Maintain availability to meet with you by appointment.
Discuss your course related concerns.
Treat you with courtesy and respect.
Arrive on time prepared for class.
Conduct self in a professional manner at all times.
Student:
Attend all scheduled classes. If you are absent more than 12.5% of the course, you
may be dropped from the class. (Hybrid course students should see the course
syllabus for specific attendance requirements.)
Meet the requirements for course and clinical content even in the event of inclement
weather or emergencies.
Arrive on time prepared for class. Arrange to make up missed work if possible or if
permitted. Review course syllabus.
Check Canvas and college email daily for updates and before class or clinical.
Treat the instructor, staff, and peers with courtesy and respect. Maintain professional
behavior at all times. Professional behavior includes, but is not limited to the
following:
During lecture, there should be no disruptive behaviors to the
instructor and other students.
Arrive for class on time
In the event of unforeseen emergencies, notify faculty.
Working on other class work during class lecture or discussion time
is not acceptable.
Children are not allowed in class, clinical or skills.
Cell Phones or other electronic devices must be on silent during class.
Bringing food or drink into classroom is forbidden.
Using derogatory or vulgar language is not permitted.
Have required textbook and other equipment for each course.
Discuss with the instructor concerns that you are having with the
class. The student needs to go to the course instructor and
subsequently follow the proper chain of command; schedule an
appointment with the A.D.N counselor and/or Retention specialist to
discuss the situation and strategize about possible solutions to the
problem.
Follow chain of command: course instructor, team lead, program
director, dean of nursing for the program.
Check grades often and discuss concerns early. Do not wait until
the last week of semester.
Seek the assistance of available tutoring services.
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GENERAL INFORMATION
Instructional Site
Nursing courses, lab, and simulation are offered at Health Science Center of Excellence located
at 1900 Pressler and the Coleman Tower 1919 Pressler St, Houston, TX 77030.
Licensure
When awarded an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing, the A.D.N. program
graduate is eligible to apply for licensure.
Degree Plan
Once accepted into the A.D.N. program, a student must complete the required degree plan.
The degree plan, a contract between the student, the A.D.N. program, and HCC, outlines
all of the courses that will be necessary to obtain a degree in nursing. The student is
encouraged to seek assistance from a counselor, available at the HCC instructional site, to
develop their degree plan. It is the student’s responsibility to seek counseling so that
courses are completed in the required order. Failure to do so will result in being dropped
from the program due to the lack of a pre-requisite course.
Clinical Affiliations
Students gain clinical experience in both privately and publicly owned hospitals and
outpatient clinics and facilities in The Texas Medical Center and throughout Houston and
the surrounding areas. It is imperative that students and faculty follow the policies set by
all the clinical affiliations regarding nursing students and clinical rotations.
Learning Resources/Library
The Houston Academy of Medicine-Texas Medical Center (HAM-TMC), located in The
Texas Medical Center, is available to A.D.N. program students. Location for the Library is
1133 John Freeman Blvd., Houston, TX 77030. Phone # (713) 795-4200. As a student of
HCC A.D.N. Program, the student can register to become a member of the TMC Library.
The Coleman Electronic Resource Center (ERC) Library is located in the Coleman
Tower Room 111.
HCCS offers computer resources for use by currently enrolled students and employees for
educational research and administrative purposes. Access to this equipment, supplies and
labs is a privilege granted to students and faculty to facilitate instruction, learning, research,
and administration. All students have the responsibility to make use of these resources in
an efficient, ethical, and legal manner.
Anyone under 17 yrs. of age is not allowed to use computers, except for Student
Services events. Visitors (non-students) may use computers on college campus
according to the computer policies.
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2017
The Health Science Computer Center reserves the right to monitor print jobs and
manage instructional supplies with quotas and a fee system. Printing accounts are
issued from course rosters submitted by faculty.
No food or drink containers are permitted inside the computer labs.
Students will be respectful to staff and other students at all times.
Abuse of equipment, facilities, and computer lab policies will result in disciplinary
action.
Disruptive behavior may result in Security being called. Disruptive students will
be removed from class and may be dismissed from the class or program.
Textbooks and Printed Materials
The bookstore at HCCS West Loop College, located at 5601 West South Loop, offers a
variety of textbooks and printed materials required for a student enrolled in the A.D.N.
program. Additionally, various HCC campus bookstores carry a selection of the
required A.D.N. textbooks and materials.
Additional Expenses Incurred by Health Science Students
Students in Health Science programs incur a variety of expenses in addition to college
tuition and fees. These include, but are not limited to, the cost of uniforms, parking,
accessories, lab supplies, publisher resources and travel to clinical assignments. Students are
also responsible for state licensure and national accreditation application and testing fees.
Student Safety
Students are expected to assume responsibility for their own safety by adhering to the
guidelines listed below, and discussing with the faculty situations which the student
believes to be unsafe prior to exposing him/herself to risk.
1. Student leaving clinical experiences after dark should travel in groups or obtain
escort services from security guards in the agency.
2. Students who use cars should lock their doors at all times and park in well-lighted
areas. Valuables including health-screening equipment, e.g., stethoscopes should
always be secured out of sight.
3. Students should carry a minimum amount of money and valuables. Be sure to have
correct change for a phone call and know emergency numbers.
4. Students should be alert and observant for risks so that suspicious situations can be
avoided. Do not enter a suspicious area – for example, where loitering, fighting or
drunkenness is occurring or in a dark hallway or basement. If the student observes
a suspicious situation, the student should leave immediately.
5. Student experiencing any injury must be reported to the instructor using the incident
report form attached in Section VIII.
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2017
Transportation
Students must provide their own transportation to clinical assignments and costs incurred
during their clinical experiences, including all off-campus expenses. Students are
responsible for appropriate automobile insurance coverage. Students are not required to
produce evidence of automobile insurance. However, students are reminded that
mandatory auto insurance is a requirement of the State of Texas.
Weather Emergencies
In case of weather conditions that render traveling hazardous, students and faculty
members are urged to exercise their best judgment in determining whether to attend
clinical assignment. The clinical area must be notified promptly by the appropriate
person, if students or faculty members are going to be absent or late. Faculty
members will notify students if they are unable to make it to clinical practice areas.
Information about changes in College schedules in case of a natural disaster or
environmental accident can be obtained by listening to radio and television news
reports. Please review the official hccs.edu website for school closures.
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2017
Pre-Admission & Admission
Essential Functions of Nursing for the Associate Degree Nursing Program
All individuals who apply for admission to the Nursing Program must be able to perform essential functions included in this document either with or
without accommodations. These essential functions are congruent with the State of Texas Board of Nursing expectations of any individual seeking initial
licensure as a registered nurse. Texas does not have a limited licensure for the practice of nursing.
Essential functions are the basic activities that a student must be able to complete. Any student applicant who has met the necessary prerequisites and
who can perform the essential functions of the nursing program, either with or without reasonable accommodations, will be considered for admission. A
candidate must be able to perform the identified essential functions in a reasonable independent manner. The use of trained intermediaries is not permitted, in
that the candidate’s judgment would be mediated by someone else’s power of observation and selection.
The essential functions are the basic physical, cognitive, psychomotor, social and affective activities that are necessary to successfully complete the
HCC-Coleman College Nursing curriculum leading to initial licensure as a registered nurse. Basic functions included are: gross motor skills, fine motor skills,
physical endurance, physical strength, mobility, hearing, visual, tactile, smell, reading, arithmetic competence, emotional stability, analytical thinking, critical
thinking, interpersonal skills, and communication. Communication in this program is based on English.
A student who has been accepted into the Nursing Program and plans to matriculate will:
•
Read the “Essential Functions” of the Nursing Program.
Return the signed and dated document related to Essential Functions to the Nursing Office.
If qualified under the American with Disabilities Act (ADA), provide a letter of accommodations from the Disability Support Service Counselor
(DSSC) at Coleman College for Health Sciences. (For more information, go to www.hccs.edu; click on For Students; click on Counseling; then
click on Disability Resources).
All Houston Community College System A.D.N program exams will be computer based to prepare the student for and meet the NCLEX testing
requirements.
PSYCHOMOTOR
FUNCTIONS
Gross motor skills: sufficient to
provide the full range of safe and
effective nursing care
Fine motor skills: sufficient to
perform manual psychomotor
skills
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TASKS
EXAMPLES
Move within confined spaces
Sit and maintain balance
Stand and maintain balance
Reach above shoulders and below waist
Stoop and squat
Squeeze with hands
Squeeze with fingers.
Write with pen or pencil
Pick-up and grasp small object with hands
Hang solution on IV poles
Connect electrical appliance into wall outlets
Operate fire extinguisher
Assist patients with activities of daily living
Calibrate equipment
Withdraw solution using a syringe
Twist objects with fingers
Physical endurance: sufficient
physical tolerance
Sustain repetitive movement
Complete an entire assigned shift
Push/pull over 50 pounds
Lift 25 pounds
Maneuver in small spaces
Move independently
Respond rapidly to emergency
Walk, without a cane, walker, wheelchair
or crutches
Mobility: ability to carry out
physical activities without
jeopardizing client safety
OBSERVATION/SENSORY
FUNCTIONS
Tactile abilities: sufficient for
physical monitoring and
assessment
TASKS
Insertion of catheters
Performing CPR
Positioning and transferring clients
Providing physical assistance when ambulating clients
Perform CPR and physical assessment
Execute movements required to provide nursing care
in all health care settings
EXAMPLES
Feel vibrations
Feel differences in sizes, shapes
Detect temperature changes
Feel differences in surface characteristics
Palpate pulses
Palpate veins
Identify body landmarks
Assess skin temperature
Visual abilities: sufficient for
accurate observation and
performance of nursing care
Visual acuity (corrected) within normal
range of eye chart
Use of depth perception
Use of peripheral Color distinction
Hearing abilities: sufficient for
physical monitoring and
assessment of client health care
needs
Hear faint body sounds
Hear a range of tones
Hear normal speaking level sounds
Olfactory abilities: sufficient to
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detect significant environment
Detect and distinguish odors from client
and environment
Distinguishing changes in skin integrity,
breathing patterns , and color intensity such as the
ability to
identify cyanosis
Identification of allergic responses
Access patient information from electronic health
records
Read fine print on medication labels, monitor
strips, equipment calibrations, syringes
Prepare correct quantities of medication
Participate in Handoff Report
Prepare
correct
quantity of medication
Assess faint
voices
Assess blood pressure sounds, assessment placement
of tubes
Hear in situations when not able to see lips (masks are
used)
Hear auditory alarms (e.g., monitors, fire alarms, call
bells)
Detect foul smells
Detect smoke
and client odors
INTELLECTUAL &
COGNITIVE FUNCTIONS
Reading ability: sufficient to
comprehend
Arithmetic abilities: sufficient to
do computations
Analytical Thinking: sufficient
to perform deductive and
inductive reasoning
Communication: sufficient to
communicate effectively and
efficiently
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Detect gases or noxious smells
TASKS
EXAMPLES
Read and understand English printed
documents
Read measurement marks and graphs
Use measurement tools recognized as
central to care
Perform dosage calculations in a timely
manner
Convert numbers to and/from metric
system
Evaluate outcomes
Transfer knowledge from one situation to
another
Prioritize tasks
Use long and short term memory
Teach (e.g. client/family about health care)
Explain procedures
Give oral reports (e.g. report on client’s
condition to others)
Interact with others (e.g. health care
worker
Speak on the telephone
Influence people
Direct activities of others
Convey information through writing (e.g.,
progress notes)
Read and understand English printed documents (e.g.,
policies, protocols, standards of care)
Comprehend measurement marks
Read digital displays
Read measurements marks (e.g., measurement tapes,
scales, thermometer, etc.)
Add, subtract, multiply, and/or divide whole numbers
Compute fractions (e.g., medication dosages
Use a calculator
Record numbers in health records
Handle multiple tasks and problem solve
simultaneously
Assimilate and apply knowledge acquired from
multiple learning experiences
Seek supervision and consultation in a timely
manner
Communicate with patients/clients, family members
and health care providers regarding the individual’s
plan of care.
Read and comprehend printed materials and
documents.
Document clearly and correctly on patient’s medical
record for legal documentation.
Transmit information through written documents that
use good grammar, syntax, spelling, and punctuation.
Access laboratory data via automated information
system.
Clarify the meaning of non-verbal communication.
Present oral reports.
Use physical touch as a therapeutic nonverbal
intervention.
Critical thinking abilities:
sufficient to exercise sound
nursing judgment
PROFESSIONAL & SOCIAL
ATTRIBUTES
Interpersonal Skills
Synthesize knowledge and skills
Identify cause and effect
relationships
Sequence information
TASKS
Negotiate interpersonal conflict
Respect differences in clients
Establish rapport with clients
Establish rapport with co-workers
Demonstrate cultural sensitivity
Emotional Stability
Establish therapeutic boundaries
Adapt to changing environment/stress
Deal with the unexpected
Focus attention on tasks
Computer Skills
Utilize computer programs for testing
purposes and electronic medical records.
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Clarify physician orders.
Analyze assessment data in determining nursing
diagnoses
Prioritize tasks
Comprehend and apply abstract concepts
Recall recent and remote information including
steps of a task/skill.
EXAMPLES
Consult, negotiate, share, etc as a member of an
interdisciplinary team.
Participate in partnered and group efforts in
classroom and clinical learning activities
Practice in a manner that is non-judgmental and
non-discriminatory
Interact with individuals, families, and groups
from a variety of social, intellectual and cultural
backgrounds
Provide client with emotional support
Monitor own emotions
Perform multiple responsibilities concurrently
Handle strong emotions
Adapt effectively to changing environments and
increasing tension levels in a variety of situations
Computer based Unit exams, Quizzes etc.
Standardized tests (HESI, NLN, ATI etc.) will be
computer based.
ACADEMIC AND CLINICAL
STANDARDS
To prepare students for the high ethical standards of the health professions, Coleman College for
Health Sciences expects absolute academic professional integrity, both in the classroom and in
the clinical/lab/simulation settings. Students are expected to demonstrate professional and
ethical behaviors consistent with standards associated with health science professions. Students
shall comply with all Coleman College, health science program-specific, and HCCS policies and
procedures.
1. A mandatory criminal background check and drug screen done through college-approved
providers is required. A minor or major adverse criminal background check will require a
positive Declaratory Statement reply from the Texas Board of Nursing, and will require the
student to get a clearance from the Board before being accepted into the Program.
2. From the first time enrollment in RNSG 1413 (Foundations of Nursing Practice), a
student has four years to complete the program. Proof of all academic requirements
must be presented to the A.D.N. counselor at the time of requirement completion.
Failure to present proof of degree plan compliance will result in not being allowed to
progress in a nursing course.
3. A grade of “W” is assigned by the college if you decide to withdraw from a course
before the official drop date listed on the HCC calendar. Withdrawals are not official
until the withdrawal form is completed and turned in by you to the Registrar’s office.
If you decide to withdraw, please discuss your situation with faculty or counselor.
The associated co-requisite course will also be dropped. The Exit Interview form
will indicate if the student dropped while passing or failing the courses. A grade of
“W” counts as one attempt. The Admission Committee will make a final decision
on re-admission status.
4. A student receiving an unsatisfactory grade in any required non- nursing co-requisite
course must successfully repeat it before taking any subsequent nursing course.
Completing non-nursing academic courses in advance of prescribed sequence
is allowed.
5. You are required to maintain competence in Pharmacology/Math. Faculty in each
course will measure your continued competence. Failure to maintain this knowledge
will result in a course failure.
6. Students will be required to take nationally normed tests throughout the curriculum.
As part of RNSG 2130 Capstone course, students are required to take an Exit Exam
and attain a satisfactory score as listed in the RNSG 2130 syllabus.
Meeting HCCS requirements for graduation is described in the HCCS Catalog.
https://www.hccs.edu/programs/catalog/
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Graduation Requirements
THE ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED
SCIENCE DEGREE
The Associate of Applied Science Degree is awarded to a student who successfully
completes the prescribed curriculum for a two-year technology program, such as the A.D.N.
program. To receive this degree, a student must:
Be enrolled in at least one semester-hour course during the semester of
graduation.
Return all HCCS properties that are assigned to the student, including library
books. Until return of such properties is made or satisfactory arrangements for
payments of financial obligations to HCCS are made, the degree is withheld.
As a transfer student to HCCS, the residency requirement of 18 semester hours
of instruction toward their degree must be completed at HCCS.
Grade Appeal Procedure:
Any student who has a grade appeal should follow the Chain of Command. The student should
first attempt to resolve the issue with the instructor involved. If not resolved at this level, the
Program Director should be consulted.
Please read page 13 of the HCC’s Student Handbook prior to completing a Grade
Appeal form. (http://www.hccs.edu/hccs/current-students/student-handbook).
Grade Appeal form for Coleman College is available in the Dean’s office (See sample copy in section
VIII).
Withdrawal from the Program
A student electing to withdraw from a RNSG prefix course must do so no later than the date
published in the current HCC Catalog to avoid receiving a failing grade in the course. The
student is highly encouraged to notify the A.D.N. Program of plans to withdraw and receive
counseling before withdrawing.
DISMISSAL FROM THE NURSING PROGRAM
Reasons for dismissal from the nursing program include any demonstration of the following during
enrollment in the nursing program which include but not limited to:
1. Evidence of actual or potential harm to a patient, client, or to the public;
2. Criminal behavior whether violent or non-violent, directed against persons, property, or public order
and decency;
3. Intemperate use, abuse of drugs or alcohol, or diagnosis of or treatment for chemical dependency,
mental illness, or diminished mental capacity;
4. Lack of good professional character as evidenced by a single incident or an integrated pattern of
personal, academic, and/or occupational behaviors which indicate that an individual is unable to
consistently conform his or her conduct to the requirements set forth in the Texas Nursing Practice Act,
The Texas Board of Nursing’s Rules and Regulations, and generally accepted standards of nursing
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practice including, but not limited to: behaviors indicating dishonesty, accountability, trustworthiness,
reliability, and integrity.
Dismissal from the Program
Reasons for a student to be automatically dismissed from the A.D.N. Program are for
violating the following:
Academic Dishonesty
Final course grades below 75%
Violation of the absenteeism policy
HIPAA violation
Clinical Agency/Affiliation policy violation
Violation of any applicable rules for the Texas Board of Nursing
Grades Earned in RNSG Prefixed Courses
An A.D.N. student receives one grade in each nursing course. The student’s letter grade will
be based on the average of the student’s component work. The components required and
their relative weights are specified in the syllabus provided at the beginning of each course.
The grading system used for students admitted to the A.D.N. program is as follows:
A = 100 - 90
B =89 - 80
C =79 -75
D =74 -60
F = 59 or below
In order to pass a course with an RNGS prefix the student must achieve a grade of
75 in each course.
Failure to achieve a grade of 75 in any skills, clinical or theory RNSG co-requisite
course will result in the student being required to repeat both theory and clinical corequisite courses.
The following policies are used for informing A.D.N. program students of their grades and are
in keeping with the HCC policies regarding grade information dissemination:
The student may initially learn of the grade earned in an RNSG prefix class in
private and/or in individual counseling sessions scheduled with the class
instructor.
A student receives electronic notification, via the Internet, of the final grade at
the time HCC posts electronic grade reports to all students.
The grade an A.D.N. student earns in a course identified with an RNSG prefix
will not be posted and will not be given to anyone other than the student. A
telephone inquiry to the A.D.N. program faculty or staff, concerning a student
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grade, even if by the student, will not be honored.
PROGRESSION AND RE-ADMISSION
Curriculum Progression
At the student’s expense, a mandatory criminal background check, drug screen and
the physical examination form must be completed. Failure to complete or an adverse
report on any of them is grounds for revocation of admission. Failure to complete
academics, as listed below, is grounds for administrative drop. The curriculum
progression must be followed. Failure to do so will result in an administrative
drop. Once a student is unsuccessful in any RNSG course, except for RNSG 2130
(Capstone), this places the student in a different progression and readmission to
the Program is based on recommendations from the Admissions/Progression
Committee and available faculty and clinical resources, readmission to the
Program is NOT automatic.
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Curriculum for all A.D.N Students
FALL ADMISSION
First Semester (Fall)
RNSG 1413 Foundations for
Nursing Practices
RNSG 1360 Nursing Clinical
RNSG 1105 Nursing Skills
RNSG 1201 Pharmacology
BIOL 2402 Anatomy and
Physiology II
SPRING ADMISSION
First Semester (Spring)
RNSG 1413 Foundations for
Nursing Practices
RNSG 1360 Nursing
Clinical
RNSG 1105 Nursing Skills
RNSG 1201 Pharmacology
BIOL 2402 Anatomy and
Physiology II
TRANSITION
First Semester (Spring)
RNSG 1215 Health Assessment
RNSG 1327 Transitional from Voc
Nursing to Prof Nursing theory
RNSG 1163 Transitional clinical
RNSG 2213 Mental Health theory
RNSG 2160 Clinical Registered
Nursing
Second Semester (Spring)
RNSG 1341 Common Concepts
Adult Health
RNSG 2360 Clinical/Registered
Nursing
RNSG 2201 Care of Children and
Families
RNSG 2261 Clinical/Registered
Nursing
PSYCH 2314 Human GD/ Life
Span
Second Semester (Summer)
RNSG 1341 Common
Concepts Adult Health
RNSG 2360
Clinical/Registered Nursing
RNSG 2201 Care of Children
and Families
RNSG 2261
Clinical/Registered Nursing
PSYCH 2314 Human GD/
Life Span
Second Semester (Summer)
RNSG 2201 Care of Children and
Families
RNSG 2261 Clinical/Registered
Nursing
RNSG 1144 Nursing Skills II
RNSG 1251 Care of the Childbearing
Family
RNSG 1161 Clinical- Registered
Nursing/Registered Nurse
Third Semester (Summer)
RNSG 2213 Mental Health theory
RNSG 2263 Mental Health clinical
RNSG 1251 Care of the
Childbearing Family
RNSG 1160 Clinical Registered
Nursing
XX3X Approved/Humanities Fine
Arts
Third Semester (Fall)
RNSG 2213 Mental Health
theory
RNSG 2263 Mental Health
clinical
RNSG 1251 Care of the
Childbearing Family
RNSG 1160 Clinical
Registered Nursing
XX3X Approved/Humanities
Fine Arts
Fourth Semester (Fall)
Fourth Semester (Spring)
Medical-Surgical II theory [RNSG Medical-Surgical II theory
[RNSG
1343 & 1144]
Medical-Surgical II clinical
1343 & 1144]
[RNSG 2361]
Medical-Surgical II clinical
[RNSG 2361]
Professional Nursing Review and
Licensure Preparation
Professional Nursing Review
[RNSG 2130]
and Licensure Preparation
RNSG 2221 Professional
[RNSG 2130]
Nursing/Leadership
RNSG 2221 Professional
Nursing/Leadership
Revised January 2019
Third Semester (Fall)
RNSG 1343 Complex Concepts of
Adult Health
RNSG 2361 Medical-Surgical II
clinical
RNSG 2221 Professional
Nursing/Leadership
RNSG 2130 Professional Nursing
Review and Licensure Preparation
Re-admission Policy
A student who has officially withdrawn or failed a required academic course or RNSG course
must apply for re-admission into the A.D.N. program. Re-admission is contingent upon
available space, faculty, and resources.
1) Failure or withdrawal from a course requires a written re-admission application into the
program. Re-admission is NOT automatic.
2) Apply in writing to the A.D.N. Program Admissions Committee and complete the readmission application packet (re-admission application, exit interview, re-admission contract, readmission retention form, and transcripts) within 10 days before the start of the semester in which
the student wishes to be re-admitted.
3) Complete all courses in the generic A.D.N. program curriculum within four years from the
date the student registered for the first Foundation for Nursing Practice course.
3a) LVN-RN Transition students- Complete all courses in the LVN-RN Transition program
curriculum within four years from the date the student registered for the first RNSG Nursing
course.
4) No single course with a RNSG prefix may be repeated more than once. Failure of a second
RNSG prefix course will constitute dismissal from the program. If a student withdraws or fails a
second course with a RNSG prefix, he/she is not permitted to continue in the program nor will the student
be eligible to apply to the A.D.N program again.
4a) The above statement also applies to students in the LVN-RN Transition program.
4b) Medical/Compassionate Withdrawal- A student who has completed a medical/compassionate withdrawal
will have up to 2 years to re-apply to the A.D.N. program. If the student has been out of the program for a year
or more, the student must re-apply in the generic track and start the program over. If the student wishes to return
in the same year of the medical/compassionate withdrawal, the student can re-apply for the upcoming semester.
The student must schedule an appointment with the abilities counselor and retention specialist prior to readmission into the program. Only ONE medical/compassionate withdrawal for the entire A.D.N program will
be permitted. The student is required to follow the program progression as indicated in the re-admission policy.
5) RNSG 2130/Professional Nursing Review and Licensure Preparation must be repeated in the
final semester regardless of previous passing grade for the course. If a student passes the
capstone course and fails any of the other courses in the final semester, a grade of “IncompleteI” is submitted. The student will be required to repeat the failed course and the capstone course
successfully provided this is not a second failure of a RNSG course.
6) Theory and clinical courses are co-requisite and must be taken together. Withdrawal from one
requires withdrawal from the other. The withdrawal is considered one (1) attempt/failure. The
specialty courses (Mental Health, OB, and Pedi) will only need to repeat the theory course due to
limited clinical placements in these courses. However, if a student fails the specialty clinical
course, the theory course will be repeated in addition to the failed clinical course.
Revised January 2019
7) A failed or dropped concurrent course in a level may be repeated separately, if not in
violation of failure policy. Concurrent courses include RNSG 1105, 1144, 2221, and 1201.
8) Re-admitted students will follow CURRENT program requirements as offered. Please note
that if a student applies for a grade appeal, a space will not be reserved for re-admission until the
grievance/grade appeal is resolved.
9) Any student who has been out of the program for a year or more, will need to repeat a
background check and drug screening at the expense of the student, utilizing the HCC Nursing
department vendor. Drug screening will not be accepted from ANY outside vendors.
Re-Admission Procedure
1) Complete an exit interview with the course faculty
2) Complete the re-admission application packet and submit to the A.D.N office Suite 344
no later than 7 days after final grades are posted
3) Schedule an appointment with the retention specialist, Latrivia Guinn RN, 713.718.7393
or vial email latrivia.guinn@hccs.edu
4) Your application for re-admission will be reviewed and student will be notified within 10
days of the first scheduled class
5) If you have not been enrolled in a nursing course for more than a year, you must meet the
current catalogue admission and progression requirements
6) All remediation requirements must be met prior to re-acceptance into the program. The
retention specialist and the student will develop a remediation plan. The student must
complete the plan by the due date provided by the retention specialist.
7) A re-admission contract must be completed by the advisor and the student prior to
enrollment in the A.D.N program.
8) A grade of incomplete will delay the re-admission process.
Remediation for
Unsatisfactory Progress
A student not progressing at a satisfactory level will be referred to the
retention specialist or designate. The student will also be required to attend
remediation before the next course test.
Revised January 2019
Remediation Policy and Procedure
Policy: Any student who fails an exam with a score of less than 75% shall be required to
participate in remediation before taking the next exam.
To remediate is to remedy the deficiencies. Remediation procedure is as follows;
Remediation/Retention Procedure:
1. Upon the initial failure the instructor shall submit an early alert notification
2. It is mandatory that student meets with the instructor to remediate the failed test (or this
can be done by the retention specialist or designate). Remediation must be completed
48 hours prior to the next exam
3. The student will schedule and attend a meeting with the Advisor/Counselor if
recommended by the instructor
4. The student will meet with the retention specialist or designate for study skills, time
management, test-taking strategies, and/or content-specific tutorials for the next exam
as appropriate.
5. If a remediation is not done, the student will be required to complete a waiver form
acknowledging that opportunity was given and it was declined. The student will be
required to sign the waiver form 48 hours prior to the next exam.
6. Student shall be required to repeat the above steps for each exam failure.
7. Faculty/peer tutoring will be provided if requested by the student or if deemed
necessary by the retention specialist.
CLASSROOM
Pets and Children
Under no cirmcustances will children or pets be allowed in class. Animals,
except for animals trained to assist the disabled, are not allowed on the premises
or property of HCC.
Revised January 2019
Classroom Attendance
• A student is expected to attend all classes and skills laboratory experiences in order to
meet course objectives. In RNSG prefix courses, absences will not exceed the designated
number as listed in the course syllabus. The A.D.N. program follows the policy that a
student may be administratively dropped after absences exceeding 12.5% of scheduled
class time. This is in accordance with the HCCS policy. The instructor will monitor
attendance.
• Attendance will be taken at the beginning of each class. A student, in order to be counted
as present, must sign the attendance sheet or indicate presence when roll is called. The
student may be marked absent if not present after the first thirty minutes of class. An
instructor may also elect to take attendance at any time during the class. Failure to sign
the attendance roster or indicate presence when roll is called will result in being marked
absent for the day.
• A student signs only his/her own name and never signs the attendance sheet for another
student.
• Signing for another student is a form of academic dishonesty will result in dismissal from
the Program.
• The instructor controls the classroom. Students arriving late to the class in progress
will refrain from walking across the front of the group. The instructor has the option
of denying entrance until break- time.
• Remain quiet during class. If there is a need to communicate with the instructor or to
ask a question, the student is to raise his/her hand.
• When speaking, address faculty and fellow students in a professional and respectful
manner.
• Refrain from interrupting when someone else is speaking. If a student is disruptive,
the instructor is authorized to ask the student to leave the classroom.
• Turn-off all personal communication devices (cell phones, pagers, etc) prior to start of
class.
• Have only water, if desired, in the classroom or lab.
• Appropriate street clothing or the uniform of the A.D.N. program should be worn in class.
details
No children are permitted in the classroom. Children should not be left unattended on
any part of the campus.
TESTING PROTOCOL
An HCC picture ID is required for entrance into all exams, which are
administered in assigned computer labs on the first floor. Books, papers,
notes, book-bags, laptops, nor other personal belongings, should not be
brought into the testing area. Cell phones, hats of any kind, electronic
watches and jackets/coats are prohibited in the testing area. Students
may wear the approved HCC uniform jacket, which can be subject to
Revised January 2019
search as deemed by the instructor. The instructor controls multiple areas
related to the exam, including the seating arrangement and movement into and out
of the room. Students should remain seated and raise their hand if they need to
communicate with the instructor.
Each UNIT EXAM consists of 50 questions. Students will have one hour
and 15 minutes to answer the 50 items. Students will also have 15 to 20
minutes immediately after the exam for a post-test review of missed
items. If any student has missed the exam, the exam will not be
reviewed until everyone has taken the exam.
The instructor may stop the exam for acts of scholastic dishonesty. Any verbal or
nonverbal communication between students, after testing has begun, is grounds for
the termination of the exam for the involved parties. Any act of scholastic dishonesty is
grounds for dismissal from the ADN program.
ACADEMIC DISHONESTY
CHEATING refers to ANY academic dishonesty on examinations, written papers, and assigned projects
and is defined by deliberate, deceitful intention to obtain or give information. The person(s) deliberately
giving information and the person(s) deliberately receiving information are both “CHEATING”. During
testing, faculty shall ask students to follow the ‘testing policy’. Faculty will assign a grade of “0” for
work found to be associated with cheating. If a “0” grade is received due to academic dishonesty, there
will be no opportunity to make up for missed work.
Academic Cheating and Plagiarism
1. Academic cheating includes but is not limited to, the accomplishment or attempted accomplishment of
the following:
a. Copying or obtaining information from someone else’s paper or test,
b. Using, during a test, materials not authorized by faculty giving the test,
c. Collaborating, conspiring, or cooperating during a test with any person by giving or receiving
information without authority,
d. Stealing, buying, or otherwise obtaining ALL or PART of an un-administered test,
e. Selling or giving away ALL of Part of an un-administered test or ANY information concerning specific
questions and items on an un-administered test,
f. Requesting, demanding, bribing, blackmailing, or in any way causing any other person to obtain an unadministered test (written or electronic) or information about an un-administered test in the process of
being administered,
g. Substituting for another student, or permitting any other person to substitute for oneself to take an
examination or write a paper or do a project,
h. Submitting as one’s own, in fulfillment of academic requirements, any theme, report, term paper, essay,
reflective journal, or other required work prepared totally or in part by another person or computer,
i. Any selling, giving, or otherwise supplying to another student for use in fulfilling academic
requirements,
j. Submitting artificially produced data or information in place of descriptive, experimental or survey
results,
Revised January 2019
Academic Integrity
In order to ensure quality education and equality to all students, special conditions will apply
when a student takes a test or examination including clinical paperwork, nursing care plans,
class, and clinical assignments. Any form of abuse of the honesty policy will be grounds for
dismissal from the A.D.N. program.
The instructor is responsible for seating arrangements and for controlling movement in and
out of the classroom during an examination; and is authorized to prohibit a student who is
being dishonest from taking the examination. (See HCC Student Handbook).
A student must place all books, papers, notebooks, and personal belongings away from the
desk before testing begins. Cell phones, pagers, PDAs, etc are not allowed during the test
Tardiness will not be tolerated. Students arriving 15 minutes after the testing starts are not
allowed to test.
Any communication regarding tests, test content, questions or answers between students,
verbal or nonverbal, will be grounds for dismissing the student's testing process. A failing
grade of “0” will be recorded and averaged into the final grade.
A student who needs to communicate with the instructor should remain seated and raise
his/her hand.
"Outbursts" of any kind while testing remains in progress will result in discipline up to
recording a zero for the student having the "outburst". The instructing faculty shall
determine discipline.
Make Up Exams
Make-up exams are not acceptable except in the most extenuating
circumstances and at the Instructor’s discretion. It is an expectation that
exams will be taken at the scheduled date and time. If an exam is missed or
taken at a time other than the student’s scheduled class/testing time, one
and only one makeup or rescheduled exam will be considered on an
emergency basis. If a second exam is missed a zero will be recorded. The
missed exam must be made up within 5 business days of the scheduled
exam in the testing center or during finals week at the instructor’s
discretion.
Appropriate documentation will be required for the missed exam, and
must be submitted to the instructor of record and the Dean of the ADN
Program within two days of the missed exam. Emergencies will be defined
by The Nursing Program.
Testing Guidelines
1. A graded unit exam may only be reviewed up to the day before the next exam. All students
have the option to review exams regardless of the results.
2. If “scratch paper” is requested during an exam, the paper must be returned to the proctor after
finishing the exam or the test review. The scratch paper will be shredded. All questions or
concerns about the test must be formally submitted in writing/email to the instructor(s) prior
to the next exam.
3. Grades will not be available until the faculty/teaching team has reviewed the exam and
analysis. The official exam grade will be available to students within a working week.
Revised January 2019
4. Final exams are not reviewed. They are for evaluation purpose only.
CLINICAL
Critical Requirements for Entry into Clinical Courses
All health profession students must present evidence of having met specific health and legal
requirements prior to engaging in clinical experiences. The evidence must be submitted by the
date published. Failure to comply with the requirements by the defined deadline may result in
prevention of enrollment or administrative withdrawal from clinical courses.
The
requirements are mandated by the clinical agencies used by Coleman College for clinical
experiences.
All requirements apply unless medically contraindicated by physician documentation.
Additional testing, evaluation, and documentation may be required in individual cases. All
records are considered confidential material and will not be released to anyone without a
student’s written permission.
Satisfactory physical and mental health must be maintained for continuance in the program.
Applicants must be free of any physical and/or mental condition that might adversely affect
their acceptance or performance in the program. The HCCS reserves the right to require
medical examinations to verify continuing compliance. Students with existing physical
and/or mental conditions which adversely affect performance in the program, who do not selfdisclose this information, are subject to dismissal from the program.
Clinical
Policies
Clinical
Attendanc
e
Attendance and Tardiness
Strict attendance is required for all clinical experiences. The clinical hours
established in the syllabus must be completed in totality per Texas Board of
Nursing requirement. In addition, orientation to the clinical facility is mandatory.
This orientation is established by the facility and failure to attend when scheduled
will constitute you not being able to attend clinical, which will constitute grounds
for clinical withdrawal and clinical failure.
Revised January 2019
Clinical hours requirements are listed as follows:
RNSG 1360, Foundations 144 hours
RNSG 2360 Common Concepts Medical Surgical nursing 144 hours
RNSG 1160 OB nursing 96 hours
RNSG 2261 Pediatric nursing 96 hours
RNSG 2160 Mental health nursing 96 hours
RNSG 2361 Complex Concepts Medical surgical nursing 144 hours
RNSG 2701 Transition Nursing 48 hours
Failure to complete the required hours in any clinical course will result in a failure
for that clinical.
However, in the event a clinical is missed, the following grading policy will be
followed:
1st absence, with appropriate documentation (illness, personal or family
emergency, death), no grade changes
2nd absence with or without appropriate documentation will constitute a 10%
grade reduction off the final grade. Please note: Regardless of an excused or
unexcused absence, clinical hours must be made up by end of semester or the
student will receive a 0 for the clinical course. Students are responsible for
notifying faculty of absences from the required clinical prior to the scheduled
clinical time. Please refer to syllabus for faculty contact info. Please note that
simulation is equivalent to a clinical day and the same rules for attendance and
tardies apply.
Students who are pregnant, or become pregnant during their clinical rotation,
must see the ability counselor. While Title IX accommodations are available, all
clinical hours must still be completed.
A student who does not arrive at the assigned clinical facility or activity (including
simulation) at the time designated by the instructor will be considered tardy. After
two clinical "tardies", the student will receive a contact action for unprofessional
conduct. A student who is thirty (30) or more minutes late will be given a 0 for
the clinical day, and may be sent home. A student who arrives in inappropriate
clinical uniform will be given a 0 for the day and will be sent home. An
approved tardy must be accompanied by valid documentation. (Picture, etc.) A
student, who has more than the noted 12.5% absences may be administratively
dropped from the course.
Any absence related to illness requires documentation from a licensed physician or
certified health care professional. The note must state the student is released to
return to clinical. .
Clinical Remediation
Any student requiring remediation for a clinical skill or activity shall be referred to
open lab to practice the skill and must show competence in the nursing lab within
2weeks of the referral or as indicated by the instructor. Need to add form
Revised January 2019
Optional Practical Training for Non-citizens/F-1/Student Visa Holder
Optimal Practical Training (OPT) is available to F-1 students who are currently in legal
status and have applied for graduation in an associated degreed program. OPT allows
you to work up to 12 months anywhere in the United States in a field related to your
major, and it does not require proof of an offer of employment.
The application has to be made within your graduating semester. It can be made as soon
as the student files for graduation. You need to allow for one hundred (100) days that it
may take to process the application.
The employment authorization is granted by the federal government for a certain period
of time only, regardless of being employed or not. If you cannot find employment during
this period, the training time will be lost.
Contact the International Students’ office at (713) 718-8520, Administrative Building at
3100 Main Street for complete information.
Physical Examination form, CPR, Hepatitis B immunization, current TB test and
criminal background check must be completed and submitted prior to registration. All
immunizations, health testing and other requirements must be complete. No clinical
experience will be allowed without completion of these requirements. During clinical
experiences, a student may be assigned rotations at any of the affiliating hospitals or facilities.
The student:
Is responsible for personal transportation and child-care. No children in the
clinical setting.
Is responsible for following the administrative policies of the affiliating hospital
or facility.
Must remain at the assigned clinical area unless instructed to assist in
transferring a patient from one area to another or to assist in obtaining needed
supplies or equipment.
Must be adequately prepared, daily, for the clinical practicum. Minimum
preparation for practicum includes written evidence of preparation as
indicated in the requirements for each course.
Must also maintain a portfolio of all graded material returned to them. The
portfolio may be requested, at any time, by faculty for review.
In the Clinical Area:
Revised January 2019
Limit break to 15 minutes, reporting to the instructor or precepting nurse
when the break begins and ends.
Lunch is 30 minutes and will not be combined with the 15 minute break.
No personal telephone calls are allowed in the clinical area except for
emergency. Use of Cell phones or other electronic devices with camera or
video recording capability are prohibited in the clinical areas. If a student
violates a HIPPA violation occurs, the student will be withdrawn from the
Program. Chewing gum, or eating food and drinking beverages are not
permitted in the presence of patients.
Follow hospital policy regarding smoking.
A student is not permitted to:
Take verbal orders from a physician.
Give information about a patient’s condition over the telephone.
Discuss a patient’s condition in the presence of the patient unless authorized.
Discuss a patient’s history or information contained in the medical chart
with another patient, friend or photocopy any part of the chart.
Accept payment for services provided to a patient, or to family members, or
friends of the patient.
Do not use clinical affiliate’s computer/printer for personal use.
Immunization Requirements
*All immunizations must be current by the end of each semester to
progress to the next level. Any student not meeting the immunization
requirements will be automatically dropped from that course and any corequisite aligned with that course. Please note ALL immunizations must
be up to date during the course of the semester. If any immunization will
expire during the semester, the student will have to bring that
immunization current prior to the start of the semester*
1. Tuberculosis Testing (TB Testing): Students are required to present evidence of a
negative skin test (TST), blood test, or chest x-ray as part of the admission
physical. The TB test should be updated annually. The chest xray is current for 2
years. It is the student’s responsibility to update the TB status and provide proof
of evidence to the A.D.N. Office.
2. Hepatitis B Immunization: The Texas Department of Health has rules that all health
professions students “shall receive a complete series of hepatitis B vaccine prior to the start
of direct patient care or show serologic confirmation of immunity to hepatitis B virus”.
Document the dates for the series of 3 injections or the date of the titer and immunity status
If the student has conversion issues with the titer and needs to repeat the series, the student
must have completed at least 2 vaccines within the repeat series. (NOTE: The nursing
department requires evidence of a positive Hep B titer)
3. MMR Titer: The student must have a titer result or completed vaccine series if unable
to convert. We do not accept the vaccine only. Please document the date that the
student had the titer and indicate the immunity status.
Revised January 2019
4. Varicella: The student must have a titer result. History of having the disease is no
longer accepted. Please document the date of the titer and indicate the immunity status or
document the date of each vaccine.
5. Tdap Vaccine: Please note that the only acceptable vaccine is the Tdap which was a
new vaccine in 2005.
6. Seasonal Influenza Vaccine: The seasonal vaccine is an annual requirement. The vaccine
is new every year. Once the new seasonal influenza vaccine becomes available in late
summer or early fall, students will be required to receive it. DEADLINE: October 15th
7. Meningococcal MCV4 is now a state requirement for all college students under the
age of 30 years of age. (NOTE: Various clinical affiliates are requiring evidence of
Meningococcal vaccine at any age).
NOTE: If the CDC makes any further vaccine recommendations or a
government entity determines that other vaccines are required, those
recommendations / requirements will be adopted by HCC Coleman A.D.N.
Program in order to comply and stay current with clinical affiliation
requirements.
Dress Code and Uniform
A strict dress code is required in the clinical, skills lab, and simulation lab settings. The
school uniform must be worn to all clinical facilities orientation sessions. Each student
assumes the cost for his/her uniform. Uniforms are worn to protect the patient and student.
Students who appear for a clinical experience without the proper uniform or in violation of the
dress code guidelines, will be sent home from the clinical or skills lab, or simulation lab with an
unsatisfactory grade for the day. The instructor will document the offending incident in the
student’s record.
Your standards of personal care and dress represent you as an individual, Coleman College, and
the profession of nursing. Professional persons set examples for others, and students are
expected to be neat, clean, and well groomed with proper hygiene. This includes the following:
1. Nails are clean with no nail polish, short and smooth to ensure patient and student safety.
Acrylic/Gel nails are not accepted.
2. Hair is controlled so that asepsis is maintained for both the student and patient/client.
Plain barrettes, bobby pins or elastic bands may be used for this purpose. Hair should
not touch the collar or fall forward into the face. No floppy ponytails.
3. For asepsis and safety, jewelry is limited to only one wedding or engagement ring; and
one pair of small-studded earrings per ear lobe. No necklaces or bracelets of any type are
permitted.
4. Shoes must provide good support. Shoes and shoestrings must be clean and in good
repair. Students are to wear solid white, leather shoes with an enclosed heel. Cloth shoes
are not acceptable.
5. Clothing must be loose enough to provide ease of movement in clinical activities.
6. Beards and/or mustache are close trimmed (1 inch only) or faces are clean-shaved.
7. Wear undergarments that are white or flesh-colored and a clean, full student uniform
Revised January 2019
showing no signs of wear, such as tears or rips. All undershirts are to be solid white
and crew neck.
8. Wear a watch with a second hand, attached to a plain band. A digital watch without a
second hand is unacceptable.
9. Students must wear a loose fitting uniform as authorized by the Associate Degree
Nursing Department with white socks and white shoes. Only the approved uniform
is allowed, no substitutions.
10. The student’s school nametag/ID must be worn at all times while on campus and in
clinical or the student will be sent home.
11. You must bring a stethoscope, a pair of bandage scissors, a small notepad, a black pen, a
red pen, penlight, watch with a second hand, a pencil, and a basic calculator to the clinical
setting.
12. Borrowing clinical items (see number 10 above) is prohibited.
13. A scrub jacket may be worn. The scrub jacket must be white for the clinical setting and
simulation lab and black for the skills lab.
A student is to avoid:
Application of perfume, cologne, and after-shave lotion
Wearing jewelry in excess to that previously stated.
Visible body-piercing [outside of one pair of studded earrings in the ear lobes only]
Unacceptable jewelry, including bracelets, nose loop rings, large earlobe rings, and
dangling or highly visible necklaces.
All body art (tattoos) is to be covered at all times during clinical rotations, skills lab, and
Simulation lab.
Students are prohibited from wearing their HCC A.D.N. uniform to social gatherings
after clinical rotations.
ID Badges
All students must wear their HCC identification badges in all clinical agencies and on
campus.
Protective Eye Gear (Goggles)
OSHA mandates that all hospital personnel, students, and faculty are required to wear
protective eye gear. Students must adhere to clinical agency policies. All students are
recommended to purchase, and have available for each clinical experience, a pair of
eye goggles with side panels for performance of tasks/activities, e.g., suctioningactivities that may expose the nurse to patient’s body fluids, hazardly exposing the
nurse’s eyes.
Liability Insurance
HCCS Group Malpractice insurance, the cost of which is covered by student fees,
applies only when the student is performing in a student’s capacity.
A student is required to carry a personal health insurance policy. In the event an
A.D.N. student is involved in an injury or accident occurring in a clinical setting,
medical care expenses are incurred, such expenses are the responsibility of the
Revised January 2019
student, not HCC.
Accident Insurance
Students may utilize the Accident Insurance policy for injuries that may occur during
the time when students are assigned to clinical education. The clinical
instructor/preceptor must be notified immediately of any/all injuries. The student is
responsible for a deductible when using the accident insurance policy.
The instructor will compile a written summary of the occurrence including documentation of
the care rendered to the student and a written report submitted to the director of the A.D.N.
program.
Criminal Background Check Requirement
The purpose of this policy is to:
1. Comply with clinical affiliates who may require a student background check as a
condition of their contract
2. Provide early identification of students who may have difficulty meeting Texas Board of
Nurse Examiners (BON) eligibility for licensure requirements
3. Promote early submission by students of petition for a declaratory order by the BON
4. Promote and protect patient/client safety
See section on Declaratory Orders from Texas Board of Nursing. Students must obtain
clearance from the Board of Nursing (BON) prior to admission in the nursing program,
and once they are in the Program, at any point they break the law will require additional
BON clearance. In the event of a notification from the BON of a student’s criminal
offense, the student will be immediately withdrawn from the Program.
Student Rights:
If the student believes his or her background information is incorrect, the student is responsible
for providing the evidence of the inaccuracy of the information to the investigating agency. The
student will not be able to enroll in the nursing program until the question is resolved.
Background checks are conducted as a condition of full acceptance into the Associate Degree
Nursing Program. One clear background check is required as a condition of full acceptance after
your initial acceptance into the HCC A.D.N program and before you may enroll in an RNSG
course with a clinical component:
(1) A DPS/FBI background check conducted by the Texas Board of Nursing (BON); and
(2) A student who has any criminal offense other than a minor traffic violation, has been
diagnosed with mental illness, or has a history of substance abuse (i.e. the answer is “yes” to any
of questions 1-5 below), is eligible for admission into the A.D.N program only if the student has:
1) Submitted a “Petition for Declaratory Order” to the Texas Board of Nursing (BON)
2) Received BON verification of eligibility for future licensure by the A.D.N application
deadline
3) Meets the minimum standards set by clinical affiliates.
Depending on the complexity of the student’s background and the BON's workload, it may take
a minimum of 6 months to 2 years for the BON to process the student’s Petition for Declaratory
Order. The BON determines eligibility for future licensure on a case-by-case basis. For criminal
Revised January 2019
incidents, the BON considers severity of the offense, how long ago the offense was committed,
and the behavior of the individual since the incident. Students with felonies are not eligible for
admission to the HCCS A.D.N Program.
Drug & Alcohol Abuse Guidelines
Houston Community College (HCC) believes that it has a responsibility to maintain a
safe and efficient academic environment for students and to assist in ensuring those
served through clinical experiences are provided safe and effective care or services.
Therefore, the unlawful use of legally prescribed or over the counter drugs, or being
under the influence of such substances while in the classroom, on HCC property,
grounds, parking lots, or any third party clinical sites, or any educational experience
poses an unacceptable risk for students, faculty, patients, colleagues, HCC, and the
affiliated agency and is strictly prohibited.
Drug and Alcohol Testing
Students should be aware that HCC and agencies with which HCC contracts for clinical
experiences may require successful completion of drug/alcohol testing prior to
commencement of the clinical experiences. The costs of all shall be incurred by the
student.
Reasonable Cause Testing
Students in the healthcare occupation may be required to undergo testing if there is
reasonable cause. Students in an HCC classroom, on HCC property, or engaged in a
clinical experience may be requested to undergo a blood or urine screening test for drugs
and alcohol if reasonable cause or suspicion exists to believe the student is under the
influence which affects the safety of the patient, faculty, and other students. The student
will be required to undergo testing within 24 hours of the suspected behavior. A result
from the student will not be accepted and may be considered a failed test. Consent from
the student must be obtained to utilize the school vendor and grant access of the results to
the Program Director.
Reasonable cause may include, but is not limited to:
• direct observation of drug/alcohol use or the physical symptoms or
manifestation of being under the influence is suspected
• abnormal conduct or erratic behavior which could be caused by drug/alcohol
use
If the students presents any possible endangerment and cannot practice safely, the
instructor is to remove them immediately from the clinical setting. The student must
leave the facility with a designated driver and not return to clinical or classroom until the
results have been received by the Program Director.
The instructor is to provide detailed documentation of the incident utilizing the incident
report form including the date, time, behavior, direct observations, and persons involved.
Negative Screening Test
If the results of the test indicate a negative test for alcohol or drugs, the student shall meet
with the Program Director to discuss the circumstances for the impaired
clinical/classroom behavior and the Program Director will make a decision on the
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students’ return to the clinical/classroom setting.
Positive Screening Test
Each student will be asked to disclose prescription and over the counter medications
he/she is taking to the testing facility at the time of testing. If the results of the drug
screening test are positive and the student provides documentation of prescription for the
substance, the Program director and/or designee will consider the case in collaboration
with the student and his/her health care provider. Such students will be permitted to
return to class/clinical experiences with an action plan in place unless specifically
prohibited by the clinical agency.
If the test is positive for alcohol, illegal substances, or medications not prescribed for that
student, an investigation will be conducted and the student will be dismissed from the
program. Prior to dismissal, the student will be given a copy of the drug test.
POLICY FOR DRUG SCREENING
All Students may be required to re-test at the discretion of the program.
drug screen will disqualify the student from admission to the Program.
A positive
PURPOSE:
• Promote and Protect Patient/Client Safety
• Comply With Clinical Affiliates Drug Screen Requirements
• Detect Illegal Drug Use
DEFINITIONS:
• Positive Drug Test: A positive drug test means a medically acceptable drug test, approved
by Houston Community College, the results of which indicate the use of illegal drugs.
• Illegal Drugs: Illegal drugs include those drugs made illegal to possess, consume, or sell by
Texas and Federal statutes. An illegal drug also includes those drugs taken by an individual
which exceed the prescribed limits of a lawful prescription or the taking of a prescription
drug without a valid prescription.
Policy and Procedure for
Clinical Math Testing
Policy: Safe administration of medications is a cornerstone of safe patient care. In an effort to
assure students are prepared to calculate medication dosages, there will be a math test prior to
each clinical rotation
Procedure: Each student will be given a math packet to review prior to the new semester
Foundation students will be given the packet during orientation. On the first day of theory for the
designated term (Foundations, Transition, Medical/Surgical Nursing, Pediatrics, and Obstetrics),
the instructor for the theory class will present an overview of the math for the upcoming clinical.
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The math test will be given the second week of classes by the theory instructor. Students will be
required to pass the exam with 90% or better. The student who is not able to successfully pass
the math test with 90% or better on the first attempt will have the weekly formative grade
reduced by 30 points. Students who do not pass the exam will be given a second test the
following week after remediation with a faculty tutor.
A third and final test will be given the following week.
Any student unable to pass the exam by the third attempt will not be allowed to continue in the
clinical and therefore will be counted as failing the clinical rotation. The student will also have to
withdraw from the co-requisite theory course.
Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation
Requirement
Students must maintain a current certification during the program from the American Heart
Association only. Absence of a current card will result in being denied admission to a
clinical and possible failure of the course.
CLINICAL CODE OF CONDUCT
Student shall:
1.
2.
Provide safe and professional patient/client care at all times and implement measures to
promote a safe environment for each patient/client.
Comply with HCC, Coleman College, A.D.N. program, and clinical agency policies and
procedures related to academic and clinical performance, reserving the right to challenge
and critique rules and regulations as per school grievance policy.
Not commit acts of omission or commission that cause or are likely to cause harm to
patients/clients.
Not attempt care/activities without adequate orientation, theoretical preparation,
assistance, or supervision.
Maintain patient/client confidentiality at ALL times.
Take appropriate action to assure the safety of patients/clients, self, and others.
Provide care for the patient/client in a timely, compassionate, and professional manner.
Communicate patient/client care in a truthful, timely, and accurate manner.
Actively promote the highest level of moral and ethical principles, and accept
responsibility for his/her actions.
Treat others with respect and promote an environment that respects human rights, values,
and choice of cultural and spiritual beliefs.
Collaborate and cooperate in every reasonable manner with the academic faculty and
clinical staff to assure the highest quality of client care.
Abstain from the use of substances that impair judgment.
Report and document all patient/client assessments or observations, the care/practice
provided by the student for the patient/client, and the patient’s/client’s response to that
care/practice.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
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14. Accurately and timely report to the appropriate practitioner errors in or deviations from
the prescribed regimen of care/practice.
15. Not falsify any patient/client record or any other document prepared or utilized in the
course of, or in conjunction with patient/client care/practice.
16. Delineate, establish, and maintain professional boundaries with each patient/client. When
providing direct patient/client care the student shall provide privacy during treatment and
care/practice; and treat each patient/client with courtesy, respect, and with full recognition
of dignity and individuality.
17. Not engage in behavior that causes or may cause physical, verbal, mental or emotional
abuse to a patient/client; or engage in behavior toward patient/client that may reasonably
be interpreted as physical, verbal, mental or emotional abuse.
18. Not misappropriate a patient’s/client’s property or; engage in behavior that may
reasonably be interpreted as behavior to seek or obtain personal gain at the
patient’s/client’s expense; engage in behavior that constitutes inappropriate involvement
in the patient’s/client’s personal relationships; or engage in behavior that may reasonably
be interpreted as inappropriate involvement in the patient’s/client’s personal relationships.
For the purpose of this paragraph, the patient/client is always presumed incapable of
giving free, full, or informed consent to the behaviors by the student set forth in this
paragraph.
19. Not engage in sexual conduct with a patient/client; engage in conduct that may reasonably
interpreted as sexual; engage in any verbal behavior that is seductive or sexually
demeaning to a patient/client; or engage in verbal behavior that may reasonably be
interpreted as seductive or sexually demeaning to a patient/client. For the purpose of
this paragraph, the patient/client is always presumed incapable of giving free, full or
informed consent to sexual activity with the student.
Health Records Requirement
Accidents, Major Illnesses, and Surgery:
An A.D.N. student who is involved in an accident, who has a major illness, who has recently
given birth, or who has had surgery, must provide written documentation from his/her physician
that the student is ready, medically, to return to the classroom and to resume clinical activities.
Such evidence shall be presented upon request of the faculty or A.D.N. department chair. See
abilities counselor upon return
PROFESSIONALISM
Code of Ethics
Unsafe, Unprofessional, or Weak Practice with Potential for Unsafe, Unprofessional Practice
A student whose clinical care/practice is judged unsafe and/or unprofessional may be
removed from the clinical experience. In order to be eligible to resume the clinical
experience, the student who has been removed must comply with stipulations prescribed
by the faculty for readmission to the clinical experience.
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The faculty responsible for the clinical will review the clinical care/practice of a student
who exhibits weaknesses that may lead to unsafe practice and/or unprofessional practice. The
faculty, with appropriate input from the student, will develop a set of expectations that the
student is to attain to remedy those weaknesses in the current and/or subsequent semester.
Rationale: Faculty have a legal and professional responsibility to assure for the public,
other students, Coleman College, and the Texas Board of Nursing that students can practice
safely and professionally in their various clinical care/practice.
A student shall provide safe and professional patient/client care practice at all times. Unsafe
care/practice, unprofessional care/practice, or weak care/practice with potential for unsafe
and/or unprofessional care/practice that occurs with the student’s behavior in providing
care/practice/client violates the current:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Standards of care/practice in professional nursing;
State of Texas Board of Nursing practice act;
Code of ethics for professional nursing;
HCCS and clinical agency policies and procedures;
Associate Degree Nursing program goals and /or course
objectives; or/and
Call into question the professional accountability of the
student.
The student’s practice should demonstrate continuity in the responsible preparation,
documentation, and promotion of continuity in the care of the patients/clients.
Depending upon the degree of actual or potential harm a patient/client may suffer, a onetime deviation from safe care/practice may be sufficient to judge a student unsafe.
Students with criminal convictions while enrolled in the A.D.N. Program who do not
self-disclose this information may be dismissed from the program. The BON reports to the
Program students who have committed a DUI, this will result in dismissal from the Program
until the student is cleared by the Board again.
As required by the Board of nursing for the State of Texas and Texas Administrative
Code Rule 215.8, students may be dismissed for demonstration of the following,
including, but not limited to:
a. evidence of actual or potential harm to patients, clients, or the public;
b. criminal behavior whether violent or non-violent, directed against persons, property or
public order and decency;
c. intemperate use, abuse of drugs or alcohol, or diagnosis of or treatment for chemical
dependency, mental illness, or diminished mental capacity; and
d. the lack of good professional character as evidenced by a single incident or an integrated
pattern of personal, academic and/or occupational behaviors which, in the judgment of the
Board, indicates that an individual is unable to consistently conform his or her conduct to the
requirements of the Nursing Practice Act, the Board's rules and regulations, and generally
accepted standards of nursing practice including, but not limited to, behaviors indicating
honesty, accountability, trustworthiness, reliability, and integrity.
Falsification of
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Information
Falsification, which includes misrepresentation
and omission of information is a serious offense.
Students who are suspected of any form of
falsification will be investigated. If the nursing
department determines that students have
falsified, misrepresented, or omitted
information, they will be disciplined up to and
including dismissal from the program.
Falsifying or altering for the purpose of
reflecting incorrect or incomplete information
any organization’s records, including student
records or patient records, is a violation of the
Nurse Practice Act. Students who are suspected
of documenting incorrect or incomplete
information on any organization’s records will
be investigated. If the nursing department
determines that students have documented
incorrect or incomplete information of any
organization’s records, they will be dismissed
from the nursing program.
Addendum: Code of Ethics
Professional Accountability
Fails to accept moral and legal responsibility for one’s own actions, thereby violating
professional integrity as expressed in the CODE FOR NURSES. Examples include but are not
limited to the following:
1.
Failure to conduct self in a professional manner, in word or deed;
2.
Sharing confidential information;
3.
Falsifying information or medical records;
4.
Failure to report information to nursing staff or instructor.
5.
Indulging in theft, or functioning under the influence of sleep deprivation,
alcohol, or chemical substances;
6.
Not following hospital policies and procedures;
7.
Failure to follow proper chain of command; and
8.
Arriving late to clinical.
9.
Using cell phones in the clinical setting for personal calls/texts. Taking pictures
of patients.
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Disciplinary Action
Due process will be implemented as follows:
1.
Upon the first violation of any of the criteria for unprofessional conduct, the student will be
counseled verbally.
2.
Upon the second violation of any of the criteria for unprofessional conduct or other
violations, the student will be counseled both verbally and in writing. Additional faculty
members may be included in the counseling session.
3.
Upon the third violation (non-compliance) of any of the criteria for unprofessional conduct,
the student will be dismissed from the nursing program. The students’ file will be reviewed prior
to the final dismissal decision.
Employment in a Hospital or Health Agency
The A.D.N. program, supportive of the State of Texas Nurse Practice Act, is committed to
excellence in nursing. Coinciding with this commitment is the A.D.N. program’s position on
an individual accepting employment and payment for providing patient care services in a
hospital or health agency while a student in the Program.
Before considering employment in a hospital or a health agency setting, the A.D.N. student is
encouraged to:
Weigh the demands of employment upon his/her time and energy against the impact
employment may have on maintaining a grade point average (GPA) required in the
program.
Become familiar with the State of Texas Nurse Practice Act that recognizes the
responsibilities of a professional nurse as well as the full scope and responsibility of
nursing profession as more than a collection of skills.
Remember that the employed student is performing patient care services as an unlicensed
individual, not as a student in the A.D.N. program. In so doing, the student must be
aware that uniforms, lab coats and insignia that identify the A.D.N. program are never to
be worn while on duty as a hospital or health agency employee.
Disclose if they work at the facility with the instructor of record.
When working for pay, the student is NOT to identify themselves, in any way, as a HCC
student nurse. The student who accepts a paid position as a Nurse Aide or as a Professional
Student Nurse must:
Recognize that he/she may be held legally liable for on-duty actions and that the required
malpractice insurance covering his/her clinical setting experiences, as an A.D.N. student,
is not applicable.
Accept only patient care responsibilities or perform nursing actions that are within
his/her skill level.
Student Officers
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Each class in the A.D.N. program has the option to elect student class officers annually.
Students Nurses Association
There is an active National Student Nurses Association (NSNA) Chapter on this campus,
Coleman Student Nurses’ Organization. A student in the A.D.N. program is eligible for
membership. Its goal is the promotion and support of student nursing education. Please
visit the website for activities and upcoming events. www.nsna.org All NSNA fees are
the responsibility of the student. $90.00 for two years. It is recommended that the
student joins upon entry into the program.
Student Representation in A.D.N Committees
Each class in the A.D.N. program will have student representation on the following
committees:
Curriculum
Program Evaluation
Student Affairs
Faculty Meetings-Designated times for student concerns
(Others committees as needed)
Scholarships
Various scholarships exist for student nurses. The following are some currently available
through HCCS for students: LOOK UP
Mary E. Stephenson Scholarship Award
Application deadline is mid to late spring
The George Foundation Scholarship Award for residents of Fort Bend County
Application deadline is mid to late spring
The Fondren Award
The Good Samaritan Foundation
The Chancellors Scholarship
The Lewis Levitt Award
HCC Foundation Scholarship
COMMUNICATION
Name Address phone number changes
Line of Communication
Social Networking Policy
Purpose: The purpose of this policy is to provide guidelines to students who engage in online
social networking. Information published on social media networks that has to do with any
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aspect of the School/Hospital must comply with HCC policies, HIPPA compliance, and the
Associate Degree Nursing Program’s Code of Conduct. This applies to posts/comments on any
social networking site.
Philosophy: The HCC Associate Degree Nursing Program maintains that social networking is
strictly a personal activity and any participation in such will be consistent with The American
Nurses Association’s (ANA) Code of Ethics as well as college’s core values.
According to the ANA, “nurses have a duty to remain consistent with both their personal
and professional values and to accept compromise only to the degree that it remains an
integrity-preserving compromise” (ANA, 2001, p.19).
HCC “believes that nursing utilizes judgment and skill in providing service to individuals,
families, and society and is guided by current legal, ethical, and professional standards” (ref
our mission/philosophy).
Definition: As used in this policy, “social networking” means communicating with others over the
Internet for social purposes. This includes, but is not limited to, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn,
YouTube, MySpace or “blogs”; and can also include media sites that are offered by television
networks, newspapers, and magazines.
Guidelines: Please remember that social networking sites are in fact public forums. This
means that the information that is posted or shared can be viewed by others. Please keep in mind
these guidelines and consider carefully when posting.
1. Posts/comments by students should not reflect HCC Associate Degree
Program or any of our inpatient or outpatient affiliates in any manner. When
posting on any social networking site posts/comments should reflect the personal
views of the social networking member only.
2. Posts/comments should be respectful and in good taste. Negative or
unprofessional posts/comments are unacceptable.
3. Posts/comments should never directly or indirectly reflect patients,
diagnoses or any content related to patient care or clinical experiences.
4. Photos posted of the social networking member should be tasteful.
5. Photos in which patients are identified or patient privacy and
confidentiality are breached are unacceptable.
6. Interaction between current students and faculty/staff is prohibited.
Student questions/concerns are only to be addressed in proper, approved channels
of communication set forth by the School (office hours, academic advisement)
and never through social networking.
7. Students are to refrain from accessing social networking sites during clinical
or classroom time/lecture.
Violation of Policy: HCC Associate Degree Nursing Program will not tolerate violations
of the social networking policy. All reports of such behavior will be investigated. If
activity on a social networking site is considered an infraction of school policy, it will be
handled according to the disciplinary process.
Violation of this policy can result in disciplinary action ranging from written
Revised January 2019
reprimand to dismissal from the program.
Electronic Media Policy (Health Records)
Protected Health Information (PHI):
Students are allowed to access electronic medical records only for gathering information. The
information obtained must be handwritten; it cannot be photographed or electronically
transmitted. Auxiliary drives (USB drives, portable drives, discs, data storage cards, etc.) are not
to be inserted into any facilities EMR system.
Do Not access any medical records that are not related to your assigned patient. Access to any
medical record data that is not related to your assigned patient is considered a breach in patient
information and privacy and may result in consequences up to failing your clinical rotation, fines,
and dismissal from the program. Hospitals consider PHI violations as critical errors in judgment
resulting in grounds for immediate dismissal.
Password Security:
Do not share any facility password or your username with anyone. Please be advised that facility
staff members are not allowed to share their password or username with any student or faculty
member.
COLLEGE SYSTEM POLICIES
Office of Institutional Equity
Discrimination, Sexual Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, Pregnancy and
Parental Status
HCC prohibits discrimination in its educational programs or activities on the
basis of race, color, national origin, age, religion, disability, sex or genderincluding pregnancy or parental status, gender identity, gender expression,
sexual orientation, Veteran status or genetic information. Furthermore, HCC
prohibits all forms of sexual misconduct, including but not limited to, sexual
harassment, rape, sexual assault, sexual exploitation, domestic violence,
interpersonal violence, dating violence and stalking.
Use the link below to access the HCC Office of Institutional Equity
(http://www.hccs.edu/departments/institutional-equity/)
Title IX
HCC will comply with state and federal laws such as Title IX of the Education
Amendments of 1972, Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans
with Disabilities Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era
Veterans Readjustment and Rights Act, and other similar laws that prohibit
discrimination.
Houston Community College is committed to cultivating an environment free from
inappropriate conduct of a sexual or gender-based nature including sex
discrimination, sexual assault, sexual harassment, and sexual violence. Sex
discrimination includes all forms of sexual and gender-based misconduct and
violates an individual’s fundamental rights and personal dignity. Title IX prohibits
discrimination on the basis of sex-including pregnancy and parental status in
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educational programs and activities. If you require an accommodation due to
pregnancy please contact an Abilities Services Counselor. The Director of
EEO/Compliance is designated as the Title IX Coordinator and Section 504
Coordinator. All inquiries concerning HCC policies, compliance with applicable
laws, statutes, and regulations (such as Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504), and
complaints may be directed to:
David Cross
Director EEO/Compliance
Office of Institutional Equity & Diversity
3100 Main
Houston, TX 77266-7517
Phone: (713) 718-8271
Institutional.Equity@hccs.edu
http://www.hccs.edu/departments/institutional-equity/title-ix-knowyour-rights/
Pregnancy:
A pregnant student must submit written documentation from her physician that, medically, she
can continue participating in classroom and clinical activities. In the event a student is pregnant
while enrolled in the A.D.N. Program, documentation must be submitted from the student’s
health care provider that states the student’s health status will not be in jeopardy by enrollment
in the program. Although the faculty will attempt to make clinical assignments to avoid
potentially hazardous situations, it remains the student’s responsibility to maintain her own
well-being and demonstrate responsible behavior with respect to her fetus. HCC Coleman
College assumes no responsibility for problems or exposures that may occur during pregnancy
or delivery. Faculty will not limit how long the pregnant student may be enrolled provided it is
understood that she is expected to meet the same standards of clinical and classroom
performance as are all students enrolled in the A.D.N. Program. All pregnant students must see
the counselor in the ability services office.
Compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Any student with a documented disability (e.g. physical, learning, psychiatric, vision
hearing, etc.) who needs to arrange for reasonable accommodations must be contact the
Disability Services Office at the respective college at the beginning of each semester.
Faculty is authorized to provide only the accommodations requested by the Disability
Support Services Office. The Coleman College of Health Sciences ADA counselor is
located in the Student Services Department. The information concerning the ADA Act will
be made available in large print, taped or computer-based format upon request to the office
of Disability Support Services.
Seek ADA services if necessary at the beginning of the semester, prior to the first course
exam is recommended.
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Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA):
In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), the
undersigned student hereby permits Houston Community College to disclose the information
specified below to the following individual(s) or agency (ies): The student authorizing the
release of his/her educational records must sign & present this form to the appropriate office with
a photo ID to verify authenticity of this release. HCC FERPA Form:
http://www.hccs.edu/media/houston-community-college/district/pdf/FERPA.pdf
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Campus Carry
"At HCC the safety of our students, staff, and faculty is our first priority. As of August 1, 2017, Houston Community
College is subject to the Campus Carry Law (SB11 2015). For more information, visit the HCC Campus Carry web
page at http://www.hccs.edu/district/departments/police/campus-carry/.”
House Bill 1508
Texas HB 1508 requires the following information be given to students. If you are applying for admission to a
program that prepares an individual for an initial occupational license or certification and/or if you later decide
to change to a program that prepares you for an initial occupational license or certification, in accordance with
state law, please be advised of the following:
1. An individual who has been charged or convicted of an offense or who is on probation may not be
eligible for issuance of an occupational license or certification upon completion of the educational
program.
2. It is the responsibility of the individual to immediately report to the program any change in status that
would affect that individual’s eligibility to apply for a license or certification.
3. Local, state or national licensing and certification authorities may issue additional guidelines related to
criminal history. Applicants should contact their respective licensing or certification authority for more
details.
Most health care programs require all students, admitted to the program, to submit to a national background
check which may include fingerprinting. Applicants are encouraged to review all applicable eligibility
requirements related to the respective occupational license or certification. Questions related to eligibility
requirements should be directed to the individual program and applicable licensing or certification authority.
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APPENDIX
THE BOARD OF NURSING FOR THE STATE OF TEXAS
DECLARATORY ORDERS
The Board of Nursing for the State of Texas requires nursing schools and nursing programs to inform
students as early as possible of declaratory orders, as described in the Texas Nursing Practice Act (2000)
Sec. 301.257. Declaratory Order of License Eligibility:
(a)
A person may petition the board for a declaratory order as to the person's eligibility for a license
under this chapter if the person:
(1)
Is enrolled or planning to enroll in an educational program that prepares a person for an initial
license as a registered nurse; and
(2)
has reason to believe that the person is ineligible for the license.
(b)
The petition must state the basis for the person's potential ineligibility.
(c)
The Board has the same powers to investigate the petition and the person's eligibility that it
has to investigate a person applying for a license.
(d)
The petitioner or the board may amend the petition to include additional grounds for potential
ineligibility at any time before a final determination is made.
(e)
If the board proposes to find the petitioner is ineligible for a license, the petitioner is entitled to a
hearing before the State Office of Administrative Hearings.
(f)
The Board’s order must set out each basis for potential ineligibility and the Board’s determination as
to eligibility. In the absence of new evidence known to but not disclosed by the petitioner or not reasonably
available to the Board at the time the order is issued, the Board’s ruling on the petition determines the
person's eligibility with respect to the
grounds for potential ineligibility set out in the order.
(g)
The Board may require an individual accepted for enrollment or enrolled in an educational program
preparing a student for initial licensure as a registered nurse to submit information to the board to permit the
board to determine whether the person is aware of the conditions that may disqualify the person from
licensure as a registered nurse on graduation and of the person's right to petition the board for a declaratory
order under this section.
Declaratory Orders Summarized
A. Any individual enrolled or planning to enroll in a nursing program who has reason to believe that
he/she has been involved in any of the following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
previous denial of licensure or certificate of registration
felony convictions
misdemeanor convictions (other than minor traffic violations)
any physical or mental disability/illness that might affect client safety
chemical dependency
intemperate use of drugs or alcohol
He/she may petition the Board of Nursing for a Declaratory Order as to eligibility.
B.
An individual may be:
1. excluded from taking the licensure examination
2. refused a license or certificate of registration
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3. refused a temporary permit to practice nursing
An individual who thinks that he/she may be ineligible for licensure should contact the
Texas Board of Nursing
What is a Declaratory Order?
It is a decision of the Board of Nursing for the State of Texas. It provides a declaration regarding
eligibility for licensure; hence it’s called a Declaratory Order. It is specifically meant for those
individuals with potentially disqualifying factors in their histories.
Who should apply for a Declaratory Order?
If you answer “yes” to any one of the six questions found under section A on this page of the
handbook.
If I need to, when should I apply for a Declaratory Order?
You should apply as soon as possible before enrollment into this nursing program. The
Board requires that you also apply no later than the fall semester of your last or senior year.
What happens if I need to apply and don’t?
You may be ineligible to take the NCLEX-RN with your classmates. You may be delayed in getting
your permit to practice, following graduation from nursing school. More importantly, you may be
declared ineligible for licensure after spending a lot of time and money on an educational program.
How can I apply?
You can download a “Petition For Declaratory Order” packet. You can also email the
Texas Board of Nursing if you have any questions.
B.O.N. Education Department
P.O. Box 140466
Austin, Texas 78714 (512) 305-7400
www.bon.state.tx.us
The Petition for Declaratory Order form and other information regarding eligibility for licensure is available from the
Texas BON website at http://www.bon.state.tx.us/olv/pdfs/DOapp.pdf
If you answer "NO" to all questions below, you are not required to submit a Petition for Declaratory Order to the
BON.
Texas Board of Nursing (BON) Licensure Eligibility Questions:
1) For any criminal offense (adult or juvenile), including those pending appeal, have you:
A. been convicted of a misdemeanor? (You may only exclude Class C misdemeanor traffic violations.)
B. been convicted of a felony?
C. pled nolo contendere, no contest, or guilty?
D. received deferred adjudication?
E. been placed on community supervisor or court-ordered probation, whether or not adjudicated guilty?
F. been sentenced to serve jail or prison time? Court- ordered confinement?
G. been granted pre-trial diversion?
H been arrested or any pending criminal charges?
Revised January 2019
I. been cited or charged with any violation of the law?
J. been subject of a court-martial; Article 15 violation; or received any form of military judgment/punishment/action?
NOTE: Expunged and Sealed Offenses: While expunged or sealed offenses, arrests, tickets, or citations need to be disclosed, it is your
responsibility to ensure the offense, arrest, ticket or citation has, in fact, been expunged or sealed. It is recommended that you submit a copy of the
Court Order expunging or sealing the record in question to our office with your application. Failure to reveal an offense, arrest, ticket, or citation that
is not in fact expunged or sealed, will at a minimum, subject your license to a disciplinary fine. Non-disclosure of relevant offenses raises questions
related to truthfulness and character.
NOTE: Orders of Non-disclosure: Pursuant to Tex. Gov’t Code § 552.142(b), if you have criminal matters that are the subject of an order of nondisclosure you are not required to reveal those criminal matters on this form. However, a criminal matter that is the subject of an order of nondisclosure may become a character and fitness issue. Pursuant to other sections of the Gov’t Code chapter 411, the Texas Nursing Board is entitled to
access criminal history record information
that is the subject of an order of non-disclosure. If the Board discovers a criminal matter that is the subject of an order of non-disclosure, even if you
properly did not reveal that matter, the Board may require you to provide information about that criminal matter.
2) Are you currently the target or subject of a grand jury or governmental agency investigation?
3) Has any licensing authority refused to issue you a license or ever revoked, annulled, cancelled, accepted surrender of, suspended, placed on
probation, refused to renew a professional license, certificate or multi-state privilege held by you now or previously, or ever fined, censured,
reprimanded or otherwise disciplined you?
4) Within the past five (5) years have you been addicted to and/or treated for the use of alcohol or any other drug?
5) Within the past five (5) years have you been diagnosed with, treated, or hospitalized for any of the following: schizophrenia and/or psychotic
disorder, bipolar disorder, paranoid personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, or borderline personality disorder?
If you are licensed as an LVN in the State of Texas and are currently
participating in the Texas Peer Assistance Program for Nurses you may
answer NO to questions #4 & #5.
Revised January 2019
Revised January 2019
HANDBOOK ACKNOWLEDGMENT FORM
HOUSTON COMMUNITY COLLEGE SYSTEM
A.D.N. PROGRAM
PLEASE READ, SIGN & RETURN THIS FORM TO YOUR INSTRUCTOR
I acknowledge that I have received a copy of the Houston Community College Associate
Degree Nursing Student Handbook. I know that I am required to read this handbook in its
entirety within seven days of receipt. I am aware that, after seven days, the A.D.N.
Program will presume that I have read the handbook. If this is not the case, I will notify
the Department Chair of the A.D.N. Program in writing. I am aware that entry into the
program establishes a contract governed by the policies and procedures discussed in this
handbook.
Student’s Signature
Printed Name
Date of Receipt
Revised January 2019
Clinical Contract
Associate Degree Nursing Program
o I understand that Clinical Placement takes precedence over employment
commitments, and that my current employment or any academic scheduling
cannot interfere with my clinical assignment.
o
I understand that a pre-clinical experience may be necessary according to the clinical
facility guidelines and if not permitted by the facility a pre-clinical assignment may be
assigned by faculty.
o I understand that I must be flexible and adapt to frequent changes that may take place
during the clinical placements.
o I understand that clinical placement is contingent upon the facility requirements and
availability of clinical faculty.
o I understand that orientation to the clinical facility is mandatory; failure to attend
a scheduled clinical facility orientation is a violation of the clinical affiliation
agreement and will result in immediate withdrawal from the clinical course.
Students are not allowed to change clinical assignments with other students or to
attend a clinical to which they are not assigned.
o If a student attends a clinical, to which they are not assigned, the student will
not receive credit for that clinical day and is subject to withdrawal from the
current clinical course.
o I understand that clinical placements are final and fully agree to the above
requirements and mandates.
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
Student Printed Name
_________________________________________________
Student Signature
Revised January 2019
Date
STUDENT VERIFICATION of ESSENTIAL COMPETENCIES
If an individual’s health changes during the program so that the essential competencies cannot be met with or
without reasonable accommodations, the student will be withdrawn from the nursing program. The nursing
faculty reserves the right at any time to require a medical release from a physician in order to assist with the
evaluation of the student’s ability to perform the essential functions.
Read the declarations below and initial only one (1) option. If you are unable to fully meet any criterion, you
will need to direct your request to the DSSC at Coleman.
I have reviewed the Essential Functions for this program and I certify that to the best of my
knowledge, I currently have the ability to perform these functions. I understand that a further evaluation
of my ability may be required and conducted by the nursing faculty if deemed necessary, to evaluate my
ability prior to admission to the program; for retention in the program; and for retention and progression
through the program.
I have read the Essential Functions for this program and I currently am unable to fully meet the
items indicated without accommodations. I understand that if I need accommodations, it is my
responsibility to contact the DSSC.
Applicant’s signature
Printed Name
Revised January 2019
Date
Student HCC ID or SSN
REPORTABLE NEGATIVE CRITICAL INCIDENT ON CLINICAL BEHAVIORS
INTRODUCTION/ PURPOSE
The A.D.N. clinical courses utilize a summative tool at the end of each clinical rotation. The purpose of the
statement is to identify the procedure and consequences for unsatisfactory behaviors. These procedures should be initiated upon
the occurrence of the unsatisfactory behavior or action rather than at the conclusion of the clinical rotation.
A onetime violation of any starred (*) item on the clinical evaluation tool will result in clinical failure. There are three
categories of unacceptable clinical behaviors that are normally considered. The first level identified as BNI
(behaviors needing improvement) involve incidents such as uniform infractions and misunderstanding of careplan assignments. The second level, RNI (reportable negative incidents), is for more serious infractions that
necessitate more serious recognition and remediation. An example might be failure to report vital signs not
within the normal range or repeated failure to report to the clinical area with the appropriate preparation. The
third level identified as RNCI (reportable negative critical incidents) indicates a very serious infraction that
has endangered or impaired a life.
These behaviors related to the Critical Elements that the faculty has identified as Safety, Accountability, and
Confidentiality. An example might be a medication error that impaired a life or a side rail left down
resulting in a patient injury. Student behaviors
related to the Critical Elements are starred on the Clinical Evaluation Tools. Three RNI’s or the occurrence
of 1 RNCI may result in a student being dismissed for the A.D.N. program upon recommendation of 3member faculty committee.
Level I – BNI
(Behaviors Needing Improvement)
1. Identify the behavior to the student and counsel as needed.
2. Document behavior or action via the HCCS Contact Action form.
3. Observe and document correction of behavior or action
Level II – RNI (Reportable Negative Incident) – May be a more serious offense as described above or repetition of a
particular BNI.
1.
Identify the behavior or action to the student.
2.
Fill out a Contact Action Form and designate the incident as a RNI and submit it to the Department
Chair.
3.
The Department Chair will then activate a 3-member faculty hearing committee to determine if the offense warrants
elements being one of the three RNI’s.
Three RNI’s approved by a 3-member faculty hearing committee may result in the student being dismissed from the
A.D.N. program at any point during the course of study.
If the RNI was not approved, the incident is filed only as a BNI and the student will be required to do
remediation designated by the committee.
Level III – RNCI Reportable Negative Critical Incident – One in which life is impaired or endangered
1.
Steps 1 and 2 as above, however, the behavior must be identified as a RNCI (reportable negative critical incident.)
2.
Step # 3 as above, however, the Faculty Committee must now determine if this behavior warrants removal of the student
form the program or decide if this is one of the three RNI’s.
3.
If the committee accepts the Reportable Negative Critical Incident report, then institutional
policy is followed to remove the student from the program.
4.
If an RNI status is granted, then the student must perform assigned remediation.
Student Printed Name/ Signature
Revised February 8, 2019
_____________Date_
Procedure for Grade Appeal
(Note: Grade Appeals can only be challenged after the final grade has been given)
Have you spoken to the instructor? Yes
No
Date:
If you have not spoken to the instructor, please contact the individual for a meeting.
Have you spoken with the Program Director? (If the program director is the instructor of record please
proceed to the Office of the Executive Dean) Yes
No
Date:
If you have not spoken to the program director, please contact the Individual for a meeting.
Office of the Executive Dean
1. Please read page 13 of the HCC’s Student Handbook prior to completing a Grade
Appeal form. (http://www.hccs.edu/hccs/current-students/student-handbook)Find real link
2. Forms for Grade Appeal can be requested by phone at 713.718.7409 or
Email shana.tatum@hccs.edu
All paperwork must be submitted in person between the hours of 8:00am to 4:00pm Monday to
Thursday and 8:00am to 2:00pm on Friday to suite 232. (Note: Documents cannot be placed under the
office door).
Paperwork must be filled out on computer.
All supporting documentation must be submitted at the same time as the grade appeal.
It is the responsibility of the student to make copies for their records.
3. After a grade appeal has been submitted, the program that is being appealed has three (3)
business days to respond.
4. Once the department response has been received from the program your documents will be forwarded to
the committee.
5. The committee has seven (7) business days to review the grade appeal then they will contact the student to
set up a meeting time at the next standing committee date (Note: a student can request not to appear before
the committee).
6. The committee has three (3) business days to submit their decision after the meeting.
7. The Office of the Executive Dean will notify the student of the decision by phone or by email and send a
certified letter to the student within three (3) business days of receiving the committee’s decision.
8. If a student is not satisfied with the decision they can request to meet with the Executive
Dean first and then proceed to the President.
Note: The Grade Appeal Committee is a standing committee (members of the committee are faculty, staff & students)
and your grade appeal will be heard on their next scheduled date.
Office of the Executive Dean of Instruction & Student Services
Revised February 8, 2019
Updated 9/08/2017
Incident Report Form
Associate Degree Nursing Program
NAME OF INVOLVED PERSON ______________________________________________
PHONE _____________________________
DATE: ___________________________________
TIME OF INCIDENT ________________________________________
LOCATION ________________________________________________________
WAS ILLNESS OR INJURY INVOLVED (if yes, describe below)?
______________________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________
DESCRIPTION OF INCIDENT (Please include names of individuals involved, nature of the incident, if injury or illness
give name of physician/hospital used, names & addresses of witnesses, and narrative of what occurred)
RECOMMENDATIONS
______________________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________
FINAL DISPOSITION (how you intend to handle the incident, any next steps required, or likely outcomes)
______________________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________
NOTE: Immediately following the incident, notify the Program Director by telephone or email. Incident Report
Forms MUST be completed and submitted in the student file.
PRINT NAME OF PERSON SUBMITTING REPORT_________________________________________
SIGNATURE OF PERSON SUBMITTING REPORT_________________________________________
DATE OF REPORT ______________________________________
DATE FORWARDED TO PROGRAM DIRECTOR __________________________________________
Revised February 8, 2019
FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE_____________________________________________
Revised February 8, 2019
REMEDIATION WAIVER FORM
This is to acknowledge that I have been given the opportunity to complete remediation, but I decline the
remediation opportunity that was provided to me.
Course Name: _________________________________________________________________
Exam Name: __________________________________________________________________
Student Name (Print Name) and ID:_____________________________________________________________
Student Signature
Faculty Signature
Created 12/11/18
Revised February 8, 2019
Date
Date