NORTHCENTRAL TECHNICAL COLLEGE
Associate Degree Nursing Program
STUDENT HANDBOOK
Fall 2013
1
Northcentral Technical College
Wausau, Wisconsin
Associate Degree Nursing Program
VERIFICATION
I, ___________________________, understand that a current Nursing Program
(print name)
Student Handbook of Northcentral Technical College is available in electronic format
on Blackboard. I accept the responsibility of understanding and complying with all
policies and procedures, and nursing student code of conduct of the program as
described in the Nursing Program Student Handbook.
I further understand that changes may be made in the Nursing Program Student
Handbook and that I will be asked to submit a signed verification each semester
accepting the responsibility of understanding and complying with current policies.
Signature:_____________________________Date:_______
OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU
The Northcentral Technical College District is in full compliance with state and federal equal
opportunity and affirmative action laws and regulations. It is the policy of the Northcentral
Technical College District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin,
ancestry, religion, sex, handicap, age, arrest record, conviction record, marital status, sexual
orientation, or political affiliation in educational programs, admissions, educational activities,
and employment. Please inform the course instructor if you are in need of any special
accommodations in the program. Confidentiality of your request will be honored. Inquiries or
complaints in regard to equal opportunity may be directed to the Equal Opportunity Officer,
Northcentral Technical College, 1000 W. Campus Drive, Wausau, WI 54401, telephone
715/675-3331, Extension 1064.
(Keep this page in your Student Handbook. Review, sign, and electronically submit
as instructed.)
2
A Welcome to New Nursing Students
On behalf of the faculty and staff at NTC, I would like to congratulate you on your acceptance
into the Associate Degree Nursing Program. You are about to embark on an educational
journey, which, through hard work and dedication, will lead you into one of the most rewarding
professions today. The NTC Nursing Pin, as shown on the cover of this Handbook, represents a
time honored nursing tradition of “welcoming” the nursing student into the profession of
nursing. After completion of the nursing program, I hope to celebrate this important
accomplishment with you in the NTC Pinning Ceremony and “welcome” you into the nursing
profession.
You have probably already taken some course requirements through the General Education
Department as you awaited your final acceptance into the nursing program. Once you enroll in
the nursing courses, you will begin to appreciate the true challenges and rewards that are
inherent in the health profession of nursing.
The nursing program presents multi-faceted learning venues using performance-based
instruction. Besides traditional classroom activities, the learning in the skills lab affords you
opportunities to practice skills in a safe and risk-free environment. The clinical area allows you
practice skills on real clients, using real staff at facilities to help guide you. Each venue is
essential to your learning, and you will be expected to be prepared and demonstrate consistent
growth in achieving competencies and program outcomes.
The faculty and staff are here to help you along your learning journey. But the primary
responsibility lies with you if you are to ultimately be successful in reaching your goals. This
means making a commitment to regular attendance and study, and learning from the
constructive feedback that you will receive on a regular basis. You will want to make the most
of your NTC Experience by taking the initiative in seeking out the help and services you require
and that are available to you. The information in this handbook will serve as a resource for you
throughout the program, but you will also want to reference the Student Catalog and Student
Calendar Handbook for additional relevant policies and procedures.
So welcome, and best of luck to you!
Lorraine Zoromski RN, MSN Dean of Health
Luann Theis RN, MSN, ONC Program Director-Nursing
3
Table of Contents
Page
Verification Form ....................................................................................
2
Welcome .............................................................................................
3
History of Associate Degree Nursing Programs .........................................
6
The Program of Learning
Curriculum Overview .......................................................................
6
Vision and Mission ...........................................................................
7
Philosophy
7
WTCS Curriculum ............................................................................
8
Conceptual Framework ....................................................................
9
Program Outcomes ………………………………………………………………………
10
Quality & Safety Education for Nurses (QSEN) ..................................
11
Associate Degree Nursing Program Curriculum ..................................
12
Performance-Based Instruction ........................................................
14
Expectations of a Student ...............................................................
16
Student Code of Conduct …………………………………………………………….
17
Core Abilities/Indicators ...................................................................
17
Guidelines for Practicing and Performance Testing of Clinical Skills .....
19
NCLEX Licensure Examination ..........................................................
19
Policies/Procedures
Grading Standard ............................................................................
20
Academic Integrity Policy .................................................................
21
Distance Education/ITV Policy ..........................................................
22
Digital Courtesy ………………………………………………………………………….
22
Written Assignment Policy…………………………………………………………….
22
Assessment Policy & HESI……………………………………………………………..
23
NCLEX Review Courses....................................................................
25
Math Policy .....................................................................................
26
Criminal Background Check..............................................................
28
Health Requirements .......................................................................
28
4
Page
CPR Requirements ..........................................................................
29
Latex Allergy Procedure ...................................................................
29
ADA Statement ...............................................................................
30
Functional Abilities ..........................................................................
30
Progression Procedure .....................................................................
33
Nursing Program Re-entry Form ..............................................................
36
Dress Policy ....................................................................................
38
Student Services and Activities
Advisors .........................................................................................
39
Faculty and Students Talking (FAST) ................................................
39
Study Groups ..................................................................................
39
Student Nurse’s Club .......................................................................
41
Thank-You Cards ............................................................................
41
Faculty
How to Contact Faculty ...................................................................
41
References from Faculty ..................................................................
42
Faculty and Staff Listing ..................................................................
43
Resource List .........................................................................................
45
Appendix A: Skill and Medication Safety during Clinical Experiences…………
46
Appendix B: Student Impairment and Client Safety…………………………………
48
Appendix C: Guidelines for Student Papers and Protecting Client Privacy….
49
Appendix D: Reasonable Accommodations Plans for Impaired Functional
Abilities…………………………………………………………………………
50
Appendix E: Notice of Intent to Transfer a Core Nursing Course from
Another WTCS College
Appendix F: Nursing Student Code of Conduct ………………………………………
5
52
53
History of the Associate Degree Nursing Program
The Associate Degree Nursing Program was established at North Central Technical Institute at
Wausau, Wisconsin, in 1969. In January 1988, the name was changed to Northcentral
Technical College. The first class graduated in May of 1971. In January of 1980 a satellite
program began at the Rhinelander, Wisconsin Nicolet campus with the first class graduating in
December of 1981. The affiliation with the Nicolet campus satellite program terminated in
December 1990. Presently students are admitted on the Wausau campus in the fall and spring
semesters. Implementation of the WTCS statewide curriculum in the fall of 2004 initiated the
opt-out technical diploma option.
Curriculum Overview
The Associate Degree Program offered by the Northcentral Technical College District is
approved by the Wisconsin State Board of Nursing and is accredited by the National League for
Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc. (NLNAC), 3343 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 500
Atlanta, GA 30326; telephone: 404.975.5000; fax: F. 404.975.5020; www.nlnac.org. Upon
successful completion of program requirements, the Associate of Applied Science Degree is
awarded. Graduates currently enjoy a high employment rate and are prepared to practice
nursing in hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, and home health agencies.
The program of learning is based on the Mission, Vision, Philosophy, Conceptual Framework,
and Program Outcomes for Associate Degree Nursing Programs. Teaching and learning
activities include classroom theory, special assignments, testing, skills and clinical laboratories,
discussion, and special workshops, all of which operationalize the concepts and curricular
threads.
6
Vision Statement
Northcentral Technical College is the college of choice for nursing education, preparing
graduates who strive for excellence in practice and are lifelong learners.
Mission Statement
The NTC nursing faculty, as part of the larger WTCS nursing faculty, strive to provide a
seamless curriculum, which is flexible and accessible to learners on a statewide basis.
Philosophy
This philosophy incorporates Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) faculty beliefs
regarding nursing education as shaped by the WTCS nursing mission statement.
Nursing is the dynamic interpersonal goal-directed process that seeks to promote optimal
health within the context of individuals, family, community and society. The concepts of
caring and integrity are central to nursing and communicated through both attitude and action.
Nursing uses the nursing process, a problem solving approach to provide holistic, patient
centered care to individuals, families, and groups. Nurses assess health and make clinical
decisions to manage and provide safe and effective nursing care according to standards of
practice within the legal, ethical and regulatory frameworks. Nursing is based on knowledge and
science and is demonstrated by evidence-based practice. Through collaboration with other
health care professionals, nursing is responsive to the needs of the community across the
health-illness and lifespan continuum.
Individuals, families, and groups are diverse, complex living beings, in which physical,
psychological, cultural and spiritual health processes are in constant interaction. This constant
interaction provides the capacity for change. Individuals have inherent worth, dignity and
autonomy in health care decisions.
Nursing education facilitates the development of knowledge, attitudes and skills appropriate
to the learner’s level of nursing practice. Nursing education integrates concepts from nursing
and other disciplines and takes place in institutions of higher learning. As a practice discipline,
nursing education requires the use of performance based instruction with measureable
competencies. Faculty and learners create a safe, cooperative environment which stimulates
the spirit of inquiry, clinical reasoning, and self-directed life-long learning. Excellence in nursing
education is achieved by providing students with a rigorous and dynamic curriculum using
technology, partnerships and resources. Graduates are prepared to meet community specific
healthcare needs as entry level practitioners.
7
WTCS System-wide Nursing Curriculum
In August 2004, the Wisconsin Technical College System implemented a new system-wide
nursing curriculum. This new model curriculum provides students with more opportunities for
laddering or advancement. The first year of the nursing program results in students being
eligible for the NCLEX – PN. At completion of the second year, students are eligible for the
NCLEX –RN. While students have the option to opt-out or take the NCLEX –PN exam at the end
of the first year, the NTC Nursing Program is an Associate Degree Program. Therefore, students
are considered to be associate degree nursing program students and interested in functioning at
the Registered Nurse level upon completion of the program.
The WTCS nursing programs provide a seamless curriculum, which is flexible and accessible for
learners on a statewide basis. Prior learning, experience and career mobility are valued and
efforts are aimed at facilitating articulation between levels of nursing. Information gathering
within the community network that includes advisory committees, employers, and health care
consumers enhances curriculum review and revision.
The WTCS nursing programs were revised in 2011-2012 in conjunction with the Technical Skills
Attainment (TSA) project. In addition to assessing each course competency, your instructors will
assess your ability to demonstrate each program outcome. This assessment, called Technical
Skill Attainment (TSA), is important because it objectively measures your ability to meet
industry-recognized skills. When you complete the TSA for your program, you will demonstrate
what you know and can do. You can then share this information with prospective employers.
Your instructors will tell you how and when your program TSA will be done. In nursing the
course competencies and program outcomes are the same, but the final TSA measure is the
NLCEX.
The NTC nursing program is taught at the associate degree level throughout the program. It is
recommended that NTC nursing students who decide to take the NCLEX – PN exam complete
additional study on the role and practice of Licensed Practical Nurses.
8
Conceptual Framework
Conceptual Framework
The conceptual framework of the Associate Degree State Nursing Curriculum is derived from the
mission and philosophy of the nursing program. This conceptual model is a visualization of the
interrelationships between the nursing students, the values of the program, and main concepts
that are threaded throughout the program outcomes and competencies.
The compass symbolizes the direction of the student’s growth throughout the program as well
as their future endeavors. The star focuses on the program itself, the customers and student
resources. Eight core values defined in the mission are noted in the inner circle. The middle
circle describes the threads of the nursing program, necessary for growth and direction for the
student. The threads add structure to the content and attainment of program outcomes. The
outer circle depicts the environment where nursing care is provided and student learning
develops.
Three major concepts are integrated into this conceptual framework. The first concept is the
tradition of nursing care in a holistic, patient-centered environment. The second concept is the
Nursing Process and the integration of the process into every nursing course. The third concept
is the outcomes that are woven throughout the program, which help to organize the course
content. The program outcomes are also the framework for evaluation of student progress,
direction and performance. All of the concepts utilize evidenced-based practice and information
from the sciences, technology, and humanities.
9
Program Outcomes
Practical Nursing
Associate Degree Nursing
Implement one’s role as a nurse in ways that
reflect
integrity,
responsibility,
ethical
practices, and an evolving identity as a nurse
committed to caring, advocacy, and quality
care while adhering to evidence-based
practice.
Implement one's role as a nurse in ways that
reflect
integrity,
responsibility,
ethical
practices, and an evolving professional identity
as a nurse committed to evidence-based
practice, caring, advocacy and quality care.
Demonstrate appropriate written, verbal, and Demonstrate appropriate written, verbal, and
nonverbal communication in a variety of nonverbal communication in a variety of
clinical contexts.
clinical contexts.
Integrate knowledge of social, mathematical,
and physical sciences, pharmacology, and
disease processes while participating in clinical
decision making.
Provide
patient
centered
care
under
supervision by participating in the nursing
process across diverse populations and
healthcare settings.
Integrate social, mathematical, and physical
sciences, pharmacology, and pathophysiology
in clinical decision making.
Minimize risk of harm to patients, members of
the healthcare team, and self through safe
individual performance and participation in
system effectiveness.
Minimize risk of harm to patients, members of
the healthcare team and self through safe
individual performance and participation in
system effectiveness.
Provide patient centered care by utilizing the
nursing process across diverse populations
and health care settings.
Collaborate as an active member of the Lead the multidisciplinary health care team to
multidisciplinary health care team to provide provide effective patient care throughout the
effective patient care throughout the lifespan.
lifespan.
Use
information
and
technology
to Use
information
and
technology
to
communicate, manage data, mitigate error, communicate, manage data, mitigate error,
and assist with decision-making.
and support decision-making.
10
Quality and Safety Education for Nurses (QSEN)
Quality & Safety Education for Nurses (QSEN) Linked to Learning Objectives
The National Quality and Safety Education for Nurses (QSEN) project addresses the challenge of
preparing future nurses so that they will have the knowledge, skills, and attitudes (KSAs) necessary to
continuously improve the quality and safety of the healthcare systems within which they work.
The NTC Nursing Course learning objectives have been linked to the seven QSEN Competencies. The
Competencies are:
Safety
The minimization of risk factors that could cause injury or harm while
promoting quality care and maintaining a secure environment for
clients, self, and others.
Client-centered Care
The provision of caring and compassionate, culturally sensitive care
that is based on a client’s physiological, psychological, spiritual, and
cultural needs, preferences, and values.
Evidence Based Practice
The use of current knowledge from research and other credible
sources, upon which clinical judgment is based.
Informatics
The use of information technology as a communication and
information gathering tool that supports clinical decision making and
scientifically based nursing practice.
Client Education
The provision of health-related education to clients that will facilitate
their acquisition of new knowledge and skills, adoption of new
behaviors, and modification of attitudes.
Quality Improvement
Care related to organizational processes that involve the development
and the implementation of a plan to improve health care services to
better meet the needs of clients.
Interdisciplinary Care
The delivery of care in partnership with multidisciplinary members of
the health care team, to achieve continuity of care and positive client
outcomes.
11
Associate Degree Nursing Program Curriculum
First Semester
*Note: Prerequisites must be taken prior to the identified course. Co-requisites may be taken with identified
course. Refer to NTC Catalog for Course Descriptions.
Course
Number
10-543-101
Credits
Pre/Co-Requisites and Comments
Nursing Fundamentals
2
10-543-102
Nursing Skills
3
10-543-103
Nursing Pharmacology
2
10-543-104
Nursing: Introduction to
Clinical Practice
2
10-801-195
Written Communication
3
10-809-188
Developmental
Psychology
General Anatomy &
Physiology
3
Pre: Admission to Nursing Program
Pre: General AP
Recommend taking Nursing Pharmacology with other
nursing courses, or as close to core nursing courses as
possible, to facilitate learning and application of the
content.
Pre: Admission to Nursing Program
Pre: General AP
Pre: Admission to Nursing Program
Pre: General AP
Recommend taking Nursing Pharmacology with other
nursing courses, or as close to core nursing courses as
possible, to facilitate learning and application of the
content.
Pre: Admission to Nursing Program
Pre/Co: Nursing Fundamentals
Pre/Co: Nursing Skills
Pre/Co: Nursing Pharmacology
This course is needed in the first year if you plan to
graduate as a Practical Nurse.
This course is a prerequisite for second semester.
10-806-177
Course Name
4
Pre: High school or college chemistry with ‘C’ grade or
higher
Credits
Pre/Co-Requisites and Comments
Nursing Health
Alterations
3
10-543-106
Nursing Health
Promotions
3
10-543-107
Nursing Clinical Care
Across the Lifespan
Nursing: Introduction to
Clinical Management
Advanced Anatomy &
Physiology
Oral/Interpersonal
Communication
2
Pre: Successful completion of 1st semester nursing
courses.
Pre/Co: Advanced A & P
Pre: Successful completion of 1st semester nursing
courses.
Pre: Developmental Psychology
Pre/Co: Advanced A & P
Pre/Co: Nursing Health Promotions
2
Pre/Co: Nursing Health Alterations
4
Pre: General A & P
3
This course is needed in the first year if you plan to
graduate as a Practical Nurse.
Second Semester
Course
Number
10-543-105
10-543-108
10-806-179
10-801-196
Course Name
12
Associate Degree Nursing Program
Third Semester
Course
Number
10-543-109
10-543-110
10-543-111
10-543-112
10-809-198
10-806-197
Course Name
Credits
Nursing Complex
Health Alterations I
3
Nursing Mental
Health Community
Concepts
Nursing
Intermediate Clinical
Practice
Nursing Advanced
Skills
Introduction to
Psychology
Microbiology
2
Elective
2
3
1
Pre/Co-Requisites and Comments
Pre: Successful completion of 2nd semester nursing courses
Pre: Advanced A & P
Pre/Co: Microbiology
Pre: Successful completion of 2nd semester nursing courses
Pre: Advanced A & P
Recommended Pre/Co: Introduction to Psychology
Pre/Co: Nursing Advanced Skills
Pre/Co: Nursing Complex Health Alterations I
Pre/Co: Nursing Mental Health Community Concepts
Pre: Successful completion of 2nd semester nursing courses
Pre: Advanced A & P
3
4
This course is a pre-requisite for 4th semester.
Fourth Semester
Course
Number
10-543-113
10-543-114
10-543-115
10-543-116
10-809-196



Course Name
Credits
Nursing Complex
Health Alterations II
Nursing
Management
Concepts
Nursing Advanced
Clinical Practice
Nursing Clinical
Transition
3
Introduction to
Sociology
* Elective
3
Pre/Co-Requisites and Comments
2
Pre: Successful completion of 3rd semester nursing courses
Pre: Microbiology
Pre: Successful completion of 3rd semester nursing courses
3
Pre/Co: Nursing Complex Health Alterations II
2
Pre/Co: Nursing Advanced Clinical Practice
Pre/Co: Nursing Management Concepts
Pre/Co: Nursing Complex Health Alterations II
3
806-186 Introduction to Biochemistry is strongly recommended as an elective if the
student intends to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing
The nursing program must be completed within 4 years from the time the first nursing
course is started.
Students must complete 25% of their coursework at NTC in order to graduate from the
NTC Nursing Program
13
Nursing Curriculum
The nursing program curriculum builds from course to course and semester to semester.
Therefore, it is important that you master fundamental concepts so you are able to apply and
build upon them as you move through the nursing program.
First Semester
Second Semester
Third Semester
Fourth Semester
Nursing
Fundamentals
Health Alterations
Complex Health
Alterations I
Complex Health
Alterations II
Nursing
Pharmacology
Health Promotion
Mental Health
Community Concepts
Nursing Management
Theory
Skills
Advanced Nursing
Skills
Nursing Skills I
Nursing Care Across
the Lifespan
Clinical
Intro to Clinical
Practice
Advanced Clinical
Practice
Intermediate Clinical
Practice
Intro to Clinical
Management
14
Nursing Clinical
Transitions
Performance-Based Instruction
You, as a learner, are the most important part of instruction. In performance-based instruction,
we carefully identify what you need to be able to do as a result of an instructional experience.
Next we determine how you can show that you have learned these skills. Finally, we plan
learning activities that will help you develop the skills, which you will be expected to
demonstrate in the classroom, lab, and clinical sites. Of course we realize (and hope) that you
will discover new skills and learning avenues outside of our prescribed learning plans which will
enrich you personally and professionally, for that is the essence of lifelong learning.
Performance-based instruction has many advantages for you:
1.
What you will learn is based on the skills you need, rather than on outlines of information.
“Skills” can be knowledge-based, hands-on, attitudinal, and include professional behaviors.
2.
You can plan how to invest your time and energy. To help you do that, we tell you right
up front WHAT you will learn, how we expect you to show WHEN you have learned, and
HOW you may go about learning.
3.
You know the standard for evaluation before the performance test. You earn a grade
according to how well you perform the skills rather than according to how well others in
class perform. You are not graded on a curve.
4.
You are actively involved in the learning. We design learning activities and assignments
that teach you to solve problems and to learn on your own.
5.
When you complete a learning experience, you have documentation showing the skills you
have learned. You can use this information when you seek employment, admission to
further education, advanced standing, or transfer of credit.
You may find it helpful to learn the basic terminology we use to describe WHAT, WHEN, and
HOW you will learn.
What
Core Ability–A broad capability that you will develop throughout a course or program rather
than in one specific lesson. Core abilities include skills that everyone needs to succeed, such as
problem solving, communication, employability, and lifelong learning.
Competency–A major skill, knowledge, or attitude that you will learn as a result of a given
learning experience. A competency is specific to a discipline (such as history, math, language)
or to an occupational area (such as nursing, accounting, engineering).
Learning Objective–A supporting skill, knowledge, or attitude that you will learn as a step
toward mastery of a specific competency. Each competency has two or more learning
objectives.
15
When
Performance Standards–Observable and measurable specifications by which your performance
will be evaluated and a description of the situation under which your performance will be
assessed.
Performance Assessment Activity–A statement that tells you what you must do to show mastery
of one or more competencies (instructions for completing assignments, performance
assessment tasks, or tests).
How
Learning Activity–A statement that describes what you can do to help you master specific
learning objectives and competencies. (You may think of them as assignments.)
Expectations of a Student in the Nursing Program
In this day and age, consumers generally demand quality health care. They want their health
care professionals to be well-educated and competent to carry out their duties, as well as
courteous and professional in how they go about doing it. Your nursing education here at NTC
strives to prepare you in all of these areas; therefore we require that you demonstrate these
behaviors both within NTC when it comes to interactions with your instructors and peers; and
with your interactions with staff and clients in clinical settings.
Time Commitment
Becoming a competent entry-level nurse requires a great deal of time and dedication. The
nursing program consists of classroom, lab, and clinical rotations. The lab course meets in a
well-equipped skill lab, where you are able to practice skills on electronically simulated and
stationary models, equipment, and each other prior to clinical care of clients. Classes meet
from 4-6 hours per week; lab approximately 6 hours per week; and clinical from 6-18 hours per
week. Preparation for each hour of class is at least 2-3 hours, depending upon the degree of
complexity and amount of material, and learning style of the student. Independent practice of
skills, usually in the lab, should be anticipated. Preparation for clinical takes a minimum of 2-3
hours each week. Altogether, the class, lab, clinical, and study time easily equates to a full
time job, and sacrifices of time in other parts of your life are usually necessary in order to be
successful.
Class/Clinical Preparation and Outside Employment
You must be adequately prepared both physically and mentally for scheduled class activities and
to assume clinical responsibilities. You may be dismissed from campus or clinical experience if
inadequately prepared, and would receive an unsatisfactory rating for that clinical day. It is
recommended that students not engage in gainful employment during the eight-hour period
prior to a clinical rotation. You are responsible for scheduling your work commitments and
other classes around nursing class and clinical obligations.
Services to assist you to be
successful are outlined in the NTC Student Catalog.
16
Each student will be allocated a one-time $25.00 printing allowance, which equates to 500 black
and white pages. When a print job is sent to a printer at any of NTC’s printing facilities, the cost
of the print job will be subtracted from the student’s allocation. When the student’s allocation is
exhausted, additional pages can be purchased at a nominal cost of $.05 for black and white,
and $.25 for color printing. Students can replenish their account at the Cashier’s Office,
Bookstore, Library, Student Life, and Regional Campuses. Money remaining on the account will
not be refunded. Students can print materials at home. Students will no longer be allowed to
bring paper from home for use with NTC printers. Be prepared with printed handouts and
assignments prior to the start of class. The computer labs are frequently used for testing and
may not be available prior to your class. In consideration of others, you will not be allowed to
enter the computer lab to print materials if a test is occurring or is about to start.
Academic and Behavioral Responsibilities and Nursing Student “Code of Conduct”
1. The Nursing Program developed a Student Code of Conduct based on the understanding
that to practice nursing as a student is an agreement to uphold the trust that society has
placed on nursing as a profession. The scope of the Code of Conduct includes behavioral
expectations in classroom, clinical and community settings unique to healthcare. Follow
the appropriate chain of command for issues related to a specific course and/or the
nursing program. Begin with your instructor first. The Student Code of Conduct is
provided in Appendix F. It is your responsibility to review it thoroughly. By signing the
Student Handbook verification form, you are agreeing to abide by these expectations.
In addition, the following Core Abilities and Indicators exemplify the responsibilities and
behaviors expected in a student within the nursing program. Students are also subject to the
Student Bill of Rights and Student Responsibilities, and Academic Policies and Procedures as
outlined in the NTC Student Catalog and NTC Student Handbook and Planner. Additionally, the
Academic Integrity Policy reflects the highest standards of academic excellence expected of a
student within the nursing program. See also Appendix A: Skill and Medication Safety during
Clinical Experiences and Appendix B: Student Impairment and Client Safety, for additional
behavioral expectations.
Core Abilities and Indicators
Adopted June 2003
CORE ABILITY
INDICATORS
Communicate
clearly
1. Learner writes clearly, concisely, and accurately in a variety of contexts and
formats.
2. Learner applies standard rules of language structure including grammar,
spelling and punctuation.
3. Learner speaks clearly, concisely, and accurately in a variety of contexts
and formats.
4. Learner expresses thoughts and ideas using appropriate verbal and nonverbal language.
5. Learner demonstrates active listening skills.
6. Learner’s communication is free from bias and stereotypes.
17
CORE ABILITY
INDICATORS
Act responsibly
1. Learner takes responsibility for his/her own learning and actions.
2. Learner completes assigned tasks according to prescribed deadlines and
quality standards.
3. Learner adheres to established attendance criteria/standards.
4. Learner maintains a safe and healthy work environment for self/group.
Work productively
1. Learner demonstrates reliability and accuracy to complete projects/tasks for
individual and/or team/group work according to established
conditions/standards.
2. Learner evaluates work using established criteria/standards to monitor
his/her progress.
3. Learner uses effective/efficient processes and appropriate tools/technology
to complete projects/tasks.
4. Learner demonstrates productive work ethic in starting and completing
tasks.
Work cooperatively
1. Learner demonstrates the ability to work cooperatively and collaboratively
in diverse groups.
2. Learner demonstrates respectful interpersonal skills when working with
others.
3. Learner recognizes conflict and uses conflict resolution skills when
appropriate.
4. Learner provides and accepts constructive feedback.
Demonstrate
integrity
1.
2.
3.
4.
Think critically and
creatively
1. Learner reads, retains, restates, and applies logical reasoning in solving
problems or dealing with information.
2. Learner identifies problems to be solved, tasks to be performed, potential
consequences and decisions to be made.
3. Learner distinguishes between fact and opinion.
4. Learner analyzes, synthesizes, and evaluates information, ideas and
problems to make decisions.
Develop global
awareness
1.
2.
3.
4.
Learner demonstrates ethical/professional behavior.
Learner adheres to college/work policies and procedures.
Learner exhibits respect for people and property.
Learner recognizes potential ethical dilemmas for self and in others and
takes appropriate action.
Learner identifies how cultural events affect the learner’s life.
Learner understands the impact of global economics in his/her profession.
Learner respects cultural diversity and pluralism.
Learner demonstrates an awareness of similarities and differences of
human experiences across cultures.
18
Guidelines for Practicing and
Performance Testing of Clinical Skills
1.
Students will be requested to choose a classmate as a partner for practice and
performance testing and in return will be asked to be a partner.
2.
Some practice and performance testing may necessitate the removal of outer garments
and donning a gown for the purpose of:
a.
assessment of body functions (e.g. blood pressure readings, pulse, temperature,
respiratory rates, heart sounds, lung sounds, etc.)
b.
identifying correct location for injections or IV’s.
3.
Practice and performance testing will be conducted in an environment that provides for
privacy, modesty, and the dignity of all students. An instructor will be present for clinical
skill competency testing for the purpose of evaluation.
4.
Students are encouraged to discuss with their instructor, advisor, or the NTC affirmative
action coordinator any concerns regarding the practice and performance of clinical skills.
Reasonable accommodations can be made and confidentiality of requests will be
maintained as much as possible.
The NCLEX Licensure Examination
Licensing is required in order to practice nursing. The successful nursing graduate may seek
employment and use the title of “graduate nurse” for up to 90 days, and within that time, must
take the licensing exam. The graduate who passes the NCLEX – PN exam becomes a licensed
practical nurse. It is recommended that NTC nursing students who decide to take the NCLEX –
PN exam complete additional study on the role and practice of Licensed Practical Nurses.
Associate Degree nursing graduates who pass the NCLEX - RN become a registered nurse by
title.
The graduate who is unsuccessful on the licensing exam may work only in a C.N.A. or nurse
technician role, and may take the licensing exam every 45 days. Once passed, he/she may
work as a nurse.
Fees for: (subject to change, please check website)
Application for licensure to the Wisconsin State Board of Nursing: $ 90.00
Application for Temporary License (optional)
$ 10.00
Application for NCLEX
$200.00
$300.00
19
The Wisconsin Statutes and Administrative Code for the Board of Nursing, July 1995, Section
441.04 outlines the requisites for examination as follows:
An applicant is eligible for the examination for registered nurse if the applicant:
a. Does not have an arrest or conviction record subject to ss.111.321, 111.322 and 111.334
Stats;
b. Has graduated from high school or its equivalent; and
c. Has graduated from a board-approved school of professional nursing. An applicant who has
graduated from a school of professional nursing other than a board-approved school shall be
required to take and satisfactorily complete a board-approved qualifying examination prior to
admission to the NCLEX.
An applicant is eligible for the examination for practical nurses if the applicant:
1. Does not have an arrest or conviction record subject to ss.111.321, 111.322 and 111.334
Stats;
2. Has completed two years of high school or its equivalent;
3. Has graduated from a board-approved school of practical nursing. An applicant who has
graduated from a school of practical nursing other than a board-approved school shall be
required to demonstrate English competency prior to admission to the NCLEX.
Grading Standard
To successfully complete a nursing program course, the student must achieve a cumulative
grade of 80% or better. See course syllabus for specific grading scales. Your instructor(s) will
explain how you can access and/or compute your grade.
Academic Policies
The nursing program at NTC follows academic and discipline policies developed by the College
as published in the NTC Student Catalog.
Academic Integrity Policy
All forms of academic misconduct violate academic integrity. It is not possible to list definitively
every type of academic misconduct. Conduct by which a learner misrepresents his or her
academic competence (including cheating); impedes or interferes with another learner's
opportunity to be judged fairly; or wrongfully obtains, possesses, or uses academic materials
(including plagiarism) is considered unethical. Students who are aware of academic integrity
violations and do not report them, are also considered to be guilty of academic misconduct.
Academic honesty is a core principle of learning and scholarship. When you violate this
principle, you cheat yourself of the confidence that comes from knowing you have mastered the
targeted skills and knowledge. You also hurt all members of the learning community by falsely
presenting yourself as having command of competencies with which you are credited, thus
20
degrading the credibility of the college, the program, and your fellow learners who hold the
same credential.
We are interested in the knowledge and skills that you are developing to ensure that you are
employable and successful upon graduation from this program. Employers will expect you to be
honest, demonstrating ethical/professional behavior, adhering to work policies/procedures,
respect people and property, and take appropriate action in connection with ethical dilemmas.
We expect the same in this program.
All members of the learning community share an interest in protecting the value, integrity, and
credibility of the outcomes of this learning experience. We also have the responsibility to censor
behaviors that interfere with this effort. The following behaviors will be subject to disciplinary
action:



Plagiarism - presenting someone else's words, ideas, or data as your own work.
Fabrication - using invented information, falsifying research, or other findings.
Cheating - misleading others to believe you have mastered competencies or other
learning outcomes that you have not mastered. Examples include, but are not limited to:
o Copying from another learner's work
o Allowing another learner to copy from your work
o Using resource materials or information to complete an assessment without
permission from your instructor
o Collaborating on an assessment (graded assignment or test) without permission
from the instructor
o Taking a test for someone else or permitting someone else to take a test for you
o Accessing an assessment from an unauthorized location
o Discussing an assessment (exams, quizzes, and assignments) with someone who
has not completed the assessment.

Academic Misconduct - other academically dishonest acts such as tampering with grades,
taking part in obtaining (printing a test question, test answer and/or rationale), copying,
or distributing any part of an assessment, or taking an assessment more than once or
exceeding the time limit without an instructors permission, or selling or buying products
such as papers, research, projects, or other artifacts that document achievement of
learning outcomes.
Nurses have an obligation to adhere to the Nursing Code of Ethics which protects the health
and safety of clients in our care. Nursing students are held to the same standards of practice.
Therefore, any unethical behavior is unacceptable and dismissal from the program may be
recommended.
Distance Education/ITV and Online Classroom Policies
1.
Videotaping of a class is not a substitute for attendance. Classes may, however, be
videotaped under certain circumstances. In case of technical difficulties in broadcasting a
21
class, the class will be taped, if possible, and the tapes will be available for student
checkout.
The instructor (not student, facilitator, or technician) will determine if
permission will be granted for taping the class.
2.
In the ITV setting, maintaining a supportive learning environment is more important than
ever. Discussion unrelated to course objectives, lack of courtesy and respect for others, as
well as any disruptive behavior, will not be tolerated and may result in expulsion from
class. Cell phones must be turned off during class time as it interferes with ITV
transmission.
3.
It is the student’s responsibility to communicate with the campus facilitator and nursing
instructor regarding classroom or assessment (testing) concerns at the time they occur.
4.
Students taking online courses must follow the NTC policies and guidelines sent to them
prior to the start of the online course, as well as course information provided by the
instructor. Students should contact the Student Help Desk at 675-3331, ext. 1660, for any
computer related issues or concerns at the time they occur.
5.
Students interested in switching from an on-line course to a face-to-face course (or visa
versa) must talk with the course instructors prior to any switch. Changes will not be
allowed after the first week of the course.
6.
At the discretion of the Instructor, a student may be required to come to the Wausau
campus for computerized exams.
7.
Camtasia/Adobe connect may be used in nursing theory courses to record the lecture
sessions. Students are highly encouraged to attend the course in person and to use the
taped presentations only as a review of the content. If there is a technological problem
with recording or posting of the presentations, the content will not be re-taped by faculty,
therefore attendance is highly recommended.
Digital Courtesy
1. No cell phone use is permitted in the classroom.
2. No cell phones are permitted in patient care areas of the clinical setting.
3. Personal computers, when used in the classroom or clinical area, must be used for
educational purposes.
Written Assignment Policy
Paper assignments need to reflect professionalism in both content and appearance, and
deadlines for submission will be strictly enforced. These guidelines are the standard to which
the student will be held accountable, unless the individual instructor specifies otherwise. Failure
to follow these guidelines may result in negative impact on the grade. See also Appendix C:
Guidelines for Student Papers and Protecting Client Privacy.
22
1. Written papers: Black or blue ink only; no pencil; neat, no scribbles, legible, using
straight-edged, lined paper, stapled in upper left corner
2. Word Processed: Use font 12 for body of paper, double-spaced, stapled as above
3. All papers: Correct spelling, grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure
Assessment Policy
Assessments (exams/quizzes/assignments) in the nursing program may be either paper/pencil
or computerized, and are generally administered outside of class time. To avoid disruption, all
students are expected to be in class/computer lab prior to the start of the class/test. Doors to
the computer lab will be closed at the start of the test and students who are late will not be
allowed in the class/computer lab. Late students will have to make arrangements to take a
make-up test. This will be considered a missed exam.
Students are required to bring and show a picture ID to the computer lab in order to take an
exam.
All exams will be actively proctored to prevent academic dishonesty. Students should place
personal belongings outside of the testing area and should anticipate visual inspection of their
individual testing area.

Standardized Assessment Tool: The HESI standardized testing and learning package will
be required for purchase for all nursing program students. It will be utilized in each
semester for classroom activities and for specialized exams. More specific information
about this product will be posted in each course’s syllabi, so refer to this document if you
have any questions.
The NTC nursing program uses the Elsevier/HESI learning package which consists of HESI
specialty tests, multiple case studies, practice tests, Mosby skills videos, and other online
learning activities. This package is purchased upon entering the nursing program and utilized
through all 4 semesters. The learning materials are an additional method of assisting students
to apply nursing and medical concepts to various clinical and testing situations. The specific
HESI Specialty Exam(s) will be identified by each semester level.
HESI TESTING
The nursing faculty supports the use of HESI specialty exams at each level of the nursing
program. Each student must successfully complete the HESI specialty exam(s) in their semester
at an 850 or greater benchmark for progression into the next semester (this applies to 3rd & 4th
semester students only). Effective January, 2013, all incoming students must meet a HESI
benchmark of 900 to progress to the next semester. All students, including NTC students who
are taking courses at another college, need to successfully complete the HESI specialty exam
each semester. Multiple versions of each specialty exam are available. HESI student packages
contain two versions of the specialty exams. Individualized remediation is available
approximately 48 hours after all students have completed an exam. This remediation plan is
23
created based on data gathered from the specialty exam completed. All students are required
to complete customized remediation regardless of score received. Faculty will monitor and
review student remediation activities. Faculty remediation advisors will be assigned to students
not meeting the minimum benchmark after the first exam. Should a student be unsuccessful
after two versions, they will be required to pay the costs for the additional exams.
The HESI Med-Surg exam and the RN Predictor Exit exam are given in the 4th semester.
Meeting the 850 benchmark on the Exit Exam has shown correlation of successfully passing the
RN NCLEX exam (8th validity study of HESI RN Exit Exam). Therefore, each student must
complete both of these exams at the 850 or greater benchmark in order to successfully
complete the requirement for course 10-543-116 (Nursing Clinical Transitions). Multiple
opportunities to take these exams will be available. A minimum of two tests will be given prior
to the graduation date for that semester. Students not meeting the benchmarks on one or
both of these exams will receive an incomplete grade in this course. The student will be given a
maximum of five versions of each of these exams. If a student does not meet the requirement
of passing both of these exams within 10 weeks of grading day, they will be required to repeat
10-543-116. With the second attempt at 10-543-116 the student will be required to purchase
ATI NCLEX review course with an assigned coach and meet the ATI benchmark in order to meet
the 10-543-116 course requirements. A student who does not complete the ATI NCLEX review
course requirement, will be out of the program. If any student chooses to take the 116 course
at another college and transfer it back to NTC, they will still be required to take the Hesi exams
linked to the 116 NTC course and successfully complete them before a graduation certificate will
be issued.
*Students who are part time will take the HESI Med-Surg exam during the semester that theory
courses are taken and will take the HESI RN Predictor Exit exam during the semester that they
are completing the remaining clinical courses. Successful completion of the HESI RN Predictor
Exit needs to occur during the student’s final semester, even if this was previously
accomplished. Additional costs could be incurred as listed above.
*
Paper/Pencil Exams
Exam reviews may be scheduled outside of class time. There will be no questions or
discussions during the exam review. No notes may be taken during the exam reviews.
An exam key, for non-computerized exams, will be in the HLRL once all students have
taken the exam until the next exam.
*
Computerized Exams
Most nursing exams are done on the computer. Recognizing that computer technology
is not perfect, computer problems may occur prior to or during an exam. When this
occurs, every effort will be made to minimize disruptions and anxiety. Retaking
computer exams in this situation is typically not warranted. Proctored on-campus
computerized exams will be given the rationale for all answers. Assessments will be
available up until the next scheduled exam for the course. Due to its summative
nature, students will not be allowed to review the final exam.
24
In the event of an unanticipated problem with technology, contact the nursing
instructor/proctor (for face-to-face course) or the Student Help Desk (for online
course) for direction. Access to computerized exams or exam feedback from any site
other than NTC instructor-designated computers is considered cheating. Printing of
exam questions, answers, and/or rationale are considered cheating. See Academic
Integrity Policy. Unless otherwise indicated, students are not allowed to use resources
other than a nonprogrammable calculator or the calculator located within the exam
when taking a computerized exam. If a student exceeds the exam time limit without
the Instructor’s approval, the grade on the exam will be a zero.
If a student fails a test, additional assignments may be given to ensure mastery of content.
These assignments will not result in extra points added to the original test score. If students
have concerns about assessment (exam, care plan, written assignment) questions, they are to
type up an explanation with rationale from two professional nursing resources to support their
answer and submit it to the appropriate instructor. This documentation will be accepted up to
one week after the exam, with the exception of the final exam. Documentation for the final
exam will be accepted up to 24 hours (not 1 business day) from the completion of the final
exam.
Scheduling Makeup/Alternate Time Exams
1. The student must contact the faculty member prior to scheduled exam time. No-contact
and/or no-shows for the exam results in a zero for that exam. Please notify instructor if
extenuating circumstances exist.
2. The student, after contacting the faculty member, will call the HLRL staff to arrange a time
to make up the exam in HLRL. A makeup exam must be completed before the next class.
The exam will not be available after this time. If unable to meet this expectation please
discuss with your instructor. After scheduling a make-up time with HLRL, no contact and/or
no shows for the make-up exam results in a zero for that exam.
3. Different exams may be given to late exam takers. Arrangements must be made with the
HLRL at least 24 hours prior to taking the exam. Online students will arrange the makeup
exam with the faculty member.
4. The student informs the faculty member of date/time that was arranged with HLRL.
5. At the time of the exam, the student must check-in with HLRL staff prior to taking the makeup exam.
6. The grade for the 2nd and subsequent exams that are taken at an alternate time will be 10%
less than the achieved points. (Example: If an exam is worth 40 points, and a student gets
four wrong, their score would be decreased from 36 points to 32.4 points).
NCLEX Review Courses
Upon completion of the program, students are highly encouraged to complete a review course
prior to taking the RN-NCLEX exam. There are several companies which offer review courses to
meet the need of the learner. NTC will be hosting a Kaplan NCLEX-RN review course here on
campus each semester for the graduates. These courses will be scheduled immediately
following graduation so that our students can prepare and schedule their NCLEX exam as
25
quickly as possible, since this is known to provide the best results. We will be obtaining a NTC
package for the college so this will provide each student significant cost savings for the course.
This will be a 4th semester book package for the students and therefore eligible for financial aid.
We will provide an orientation session early each semester as well as informing students of the
course dates so they can plan ahead. This review course is only for the RN level student so that
material can be more focused at a specific level necessary for those who are preparing for the
RN-NCLEX exam. If students want to take more than one review course, students are advised
to explore each company to learn what would best fit their educational needs.
Math Policy
Math Exam Guidelines:
1. Students must earn 100 percent on the math exam.
2. If the math exam is part of the course grade, the grade from the first math test taken will be
utilized toward the course grade.
3. If 100% is not obtained on first math exam, students will retake math tests in order to
obtain 100 percent by the deadline given.
4. **Failure to pass the course math exam with 100 percent accuracy within a total of five
exams within the published timeframe constitutes failure of the course.**
5. A student may not take more than two math exams on any given day.
6. After failing a second math exam, the student is required to meet with a nursing faculty
member and/or HLRL coordinator.
7. Students will have one hour for math exams.
8. Calculators may be used on any nursing exam (including math exams). This must be a
nonprogrammable calculator that is only a calculator. (Any electronic device, other than a
calculator, cannot be used).
9. Students must supply their own calculator and not share their calculator with others.
10. Students are encouraged to show their work on all math problems to get credit.
11. All answers must be labeled with correct units to receive credit.
12. Preceding zeros must be included. For example, 0.5 ml, not .5ml.
13. Terminal zeros must not be included. For example, 0.5 ml, not 0.50 ml.
14. The required documentation of units is units, not u.
15. All answers must be labeled with correct unit in order to receive credit. No partial credit for
correct answer with wrong unit. Note: the unit cc is no longer used; it is considered
obsolete.
16. Students will not be allowed to administer medications in clinical until they pass the math
test at 100%. (Third semester students should refer to clinical course syllabus.)
17. Please read the instructions carefully on each math test as specific instructions may apply
(e.g. computerized vs paper/pencil math test).
Math Equivalents and Abbreviations: You must memorize the following equivalents and
abbreviations. Other equivalents will be provided on your test.
Exchanges
1 cc
1 ml
Metric Equivalents
1L
1000 ml
26
Cc*
Abbreviations
= cubic
1 fl. oz
15 gr
1 gr
1 oz
2.2 lb
1 tsp
=
=
=
=
=
=
30 ml
1g
65 mg
30 gm
1 kg
5 ml
1
1
1
1
1
L
ml (mL)
g (gm)
mg
kg
=
=
=
=
=
(mL)
1000
1 cc
1000
1000
1000
cc
cm
g
mg
gr
mcg
in
g (gm) kg
lb
mg
ml (mL)
oz
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
centimeter
centimeter
gram
grain
inch
kilogram
pound
milligram
milliliter
ounce
* Note: the unit cc is no longer used; it is considered obsolete. The unit mL should be used
Math Calculations Guidelines:
Students are encouraged to use dimensional analysis to do math calculations. This is the only
method that will be taught in the classroom and clinical setting.
Oral Medications (elixirs, tablets):
 Choose the most appropriate measuring device/equipment to give medication dose
accurately (ex. Med cup, syringe, pill splitter)
Injectable Medications (SQs, IMs, IV):
 For measuring a med in a syringe: if less than 1ml, use TB syringe and measure to
nearest 1/100th (e.g. 0.65 ml); if med is greater than 1 ml, use 3, 6, or 12 ml syringe,
etc., and measure to nearest 1/10th (e.g. 2.3 ml)
 When mixing medications from two syringes to be given in one injection, you must first
measure each med separately and then combine the two meds in to one syringe prior to
administering (give the total dose--do not round the final mls).
IV Medications:
 Machines (pumps) deliver ml per hour, round numbers to the nearest tenth (0.0) (ex.
12.54 ml/hr = 12.5 ml/hr; 125.55 ml/hr = 125.6 ml/hr). This does not include primary
maintenance IV fluids (ex. D5.45 with 20 meq potassium, lactated ringers, normal
saline). These primary fluids are delivered in whole numbers. In addition, Total
Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) and blood infusions are also delivered in whole numbers.
 For gravity infusions, must use drips per ml (drip factor) to calculate drips per minute –
round up if 0.5 or greater (can’t count a partial drop) (e.g. 100.3 drops/min = 100
drops/min; 84.5 drops/min = 85 drops/min)
 Can give IV push meds from a syringe in partial minutes (e.g. 1 min 30 sec)
 Can give partial ml of IV meds from a syringe to be given IV push or added to an IV
solution (large bag or piggyback) (e.g. 6 ml Lasix; 2.5 ml Solumedrol)
 For measuring an IV med in a syringe: if less than 1ml, use TB syringe and measure to
the nearest 1/100th (e.g. 0.65 ml); if med is greater than 1 ml, use 3, 6, or 12 syringe,
etc., and measure to nearest 1/10th (e.g. 2.3 ml)
27


When adding med from a syringe to a piggyback, do not add this amount to the volume
of the piggyback to do calculation (e.g. if 2 ml of a med is added to a 100 ml piggyback,
use 100 ml to calculate ml/hr or drops/min for the piggyback)
Be certain to read what the question is asking for. If the question is asking for what dose of
medication you are giving, you do not round at all. (e.g. if asked how much digoxin you are
giving and you gave 0.125 mg, you do not round to 0.13mg.) or (e.g. if asked how much
KCL you are giving per hour, you divide the KCL meq per ml and use the entire amount).
Criminal Background Check
Background Information Disclosure
Part of the requirements for admission into nursing programs at NTC includes submitting to a
criminal background check. A criminal background check consists of three parts:
a. Department of Justice check, which looks for legal convictions in Wisconsin;
b. Department of Health and Human Services check, which looks for suspended or
restricted licenses resulting from misconduct; and
c. Background Information Disclosure (BID) form, which is required each semester.
Failure to provide honest information on the BID is a felony and can result in denial of
clinical experience by the health care agency and/or dismissal from the program.
It is your responsibility as a student to notify the Dean - Health Occupations, of any new
convictions or charges within 5 business days. Failure to do so may result in dismissal from the
program.
Health Requirements
Due to the nature of the health professions, students are more susceptible to contracting and/or
spreading disease. For this reason, an up-to-date set of minimum health requirements, as
outlined below, must be on file in the Administrative Assistant’s office (Jennifer Meyer) by the
deadline given at orientation. Failure to do so will prevent you from starting your clinical
course, and thus jeopardize your progression in the program.
Note: Some clinical sites may have additional health requirements that will need to be met. All
costs incurred related to health requirements are the financial responsibility of the student.
NTC requirements for all nursing students to have on file:
1.
Completed Northcentral Wisconsin Health Care Alliance Clinical Health form.
2.
PPD TB skin test must be documented within the last 12 months at the time that the health
materials are submitted to the Administrative Assistant. The TB skin test is required
28
annually thereafter. If the previous PPD was more than 12 months ago, the student must
have a two-step PPD. Some clinical agencies require that a TB skin test be documented
within 3 months of the clinical experience. This information will be relayed to the nursing
student prior to their clinical rotation.
Students with a positive TB skin test must be medically evaluated and receive written
medical confirmation including a baseline chest X-ray indicating that they are not
contagious. Thereafter, these students must complete an annual self-disclosure form since
repeat annual TB skin testing is contraindicated. Chest x-ray is valid for two years from
the date of the exam.
3.
Evidence of immunity for the following must be provided:
a. Rubella (German Measles)
b. Rubeola (Red Measles)
c. Varicella (Chicken Pox)
d. Mumps
Evidence of immunity may be documented in an immunization record or a lab titer showing
immunity. Individuals testing non-immune (borderline or equivocal results are treated as
non-immune) to rubella, rubeola, varicella, or mumps, must be immunized and retitered to
document immunity. If non-immunity persists, individuals must follow up with the health
care provider and submit appropriate documentation.
4.
Hepatitis B immunization, a series of three vaccinations and antibody titer, is highly
recommended for students who may come in contact with client blood or body fluids.
Students who have not had the Hep B immunization series must have a declination form on
file.
CPR Requirement
CPR certification must be maintained throughout the nursing program. It is the student’s
responsibility to keep track of when their CPR certification expires and to complete a
recertification course. Students will not be admitted to the clinical experience without evidence
of current CPR. Loss of clinical experience due to expired CPR certification may jeopardize your
progression in your clinical course.
Latex Allergy Procedure
In recent years, latex allergy has been recognized as a significant problem for health care
workers as well as patients. Latex allergy in the workplace can result in potentially serious
health problems for workers. Workers in the health care industry are at risk for developing
29
latex allergy due to repeated use of and exposure to latex gloves and other latex products. As
a result, all incoming students will be assessed to determine a potential or known
allergy/sensitivity to latex.
A copy of the complete Latex Allergy Protocol is available in the Health Learning Resources Lab
(HLRL). A short video about latex allergies is also available in the HLRL.
ADA Statement
It is your responsibility to notify your instructor at the beginning of each course or immediately
upon diagnosis of any disability that may prevent you from meeting course competencies.
Failure to notify an instructor or delaying notification to an instructor may limit your success as
the instructor could not respond to your need for accommodations. Course competencies will
not be waived, but the student will be expected to work with the Center for Students with
Disabilities (CSD) prior to implementing accommodations. In addition, the student will be
expected to work with the CSD, instructor, or Program Director to develop a plan of reasonable
accommodations. Confidentiality will be maintained as much as is possible. See also Appendix
D: Reasonable Accommodations Plans for Impaired Functional Abilities.
Functional Ability Categories and
Representative Activities/Attributes for the
Associate Degree Nursing Program
The following is a list of functional skills and abilities necessary to practice as a nurse. If you
believe you are lacking in any of these areas and will require outside assistance in order to
succeed, it is your responsibility to contact the Center for Students with Disabilities to receive
assistance.
Gross Motor
Skills:
Move within confined spaces
Maintain balance in multiple positions
Reach above shoulders (e.g., IV poles)
Reach below waist (e.g., plug electrical appliance into wall outlet)
Reach out front
Fine Motor
Skills:
Pick up objects with hands
Grasp small objects with hands (e.g., IV tubing, pencil)
Write with pen or pencil
Key/type (e.g., use a computer)
Pinch/pick or otherwise work with fingers (e.g., manipulate a syringe)
Twist (e.g., turn objects/knobs using hands)
Squeeze with finger (e.g., eye dropper)
30
Physical
Endurance:
Stand (e.g., at client side during surgical or therapeutic procedure)
Sustain repetitive movements (e.g., CPR)
Maintain physical tolerance (e.g., work on your feet a minimum of 8 hours)
Physical
Strength:
Push and pull 50 pounds (e.g., position client, move equipment)
Support 50 pounds of weight (e.g., ambulate client)
Lift 50 pounds (e.g., pick up a child, transfer a client, bend to lift an infant or child)
Carry equipment/supplies
Use upper body strength (e.g., perform CPR, physically restrain a client)
Squeeze with hands (e.g., operate fire extinguisher)
Mobility:
Twist
Bend
Stoop/squat
Move quickly (e.g., response to an emergency)
Climb stairs
Walk
Hearing:
Hear
Hear
Hear
Hear
Hear
Visual:
See objects up to 20 inches away (e.g., information on computer screen, skin conditions)
See objects up to 20 feet away (e.g., client in room)
Use depth perception
Use peripheral vision
Distinguish color and color intensity (e.g., color codes on supplies, flushed skin/paleness)
Tactile:
Feel vibrations (e.g., palpate pulses)
Detect temperature (e.g., skin, solutions)
Feel differences in surface characteristics (e.g., skin turgor, rashes)
Feel differences in sizes, shapes (e.g., palpate vein, identify body landmarks)
Detect environmental temperature
Smell:
Detect odors (e.g., foul smelling drainage, alcohol breath, smoke, gasses, or noxious
smells)
Environment:
Tolerate exposure to allergens (e.g., latex gloves, chemical substances)
Tolerate strong soaps
Tolerate strong orders
Reading:
Read and understand written documents (e.g., flow sheets, charts, graphs)
Read digital displays
normal speaking-level sounds (e.g., person-to-person report)
faint voices
faint body sounds (e.g., blood pressure sounds, assess placement of tubes)
in situations when not able to see lips (e.g., when masks are used)
auditory alarms (e.g., monitors, fire alarms, call bells)
31
Math:
Comprehend and interpret graphic trends
Calibrate equipment
Convert numbers to and from metric, apothecaries, and American systems (e.g., dosages)
Tell time
Measure time (e.g., count duration of contractions, CPR, etc.)
Count rates (e.g., drips/minute, pulse)
Read and interpret measurement marks (e.g., measurement tapes and scales)
Add, subtract, multiply, and or divide whole numbers
Compute fractions and decimals (e.g., medication dosages)
Document numbers in records (e.g., charts, computerized databases)
Emotional
Stability:
Establish professional relationships
Provide client with emotional support
Adapt to changing environment/stress
Deal with the unexpected (e.g., client condition, crisis)
Focus attention on task
Cope with own emotions
Perform multiple responsibilities concurrently
Cope with strong emotions in others (e.g., grief)
Analytical
Thinking:
Transfer knowledge from one situation to another
Process and interpret information from multiple sources
Analyze and interpret abstract and concrete data
Evaluate outcomes
Problem solve
Prioritize tasks
Use long-term memory
Use short-term memory
Critical
Thinking:
Identify cause-effect relationships
Plan/control activities for others
Synthesize knowledge and skills
Sequence information
Make decisions independently
Adapt decisions based on new information
Interpersonal
Skills:
Establish rapport with individuals, families, and groups
Respect/value cultural differences in others
Negotiate interpersonal conflict
Communication
Skills:
Teach (e.g., client/family about health care)
Influence people
Direct/manage/delegate activities of others
Speak English
Write English
Listen/comprehend spoken/written word
Collaborate with others (e.g., health care workers, peers)
Manage information
32
Progression Procedure
Successful Progression
Program students who successfully complete all four of the required nursing courses of their current semester are
eligible to enter the subsequent semester.
 These students will register for courses following the schedule and process established by NTC.
4 Year Completion and Graduation
Students have a maximum of 4 years from entry into the first nursing course to complete the NTC A.D.N. program.
Unsuccessful completion of one or more courses may jeopardize a student’s ability to complete the program in a
timely manner.
 Students must complete 25% of their coursework at Northcentral Technical College in order to graduate
from the NTC Nursing program.
 Students who take courses at other universities or technical colleges (e-tech nursing courses) should keep
track of the courses taken elsewhere, to ensure that they complete the necessary 25% at NTC. Students
who plan to take a nursing course at another WTCS college, must submit a Notice of Intent to Transfer a
Core Nursing Course from Another WTCS College form to the Associate Dean of Nursing prior to the start
of the course. See Appendix E for the form.
First Semester Withdraw or Fail
Students who withdraw from or fail all four of the first semester nursing courses will be ineligible to continue in the
nursing program and will be reassigned a program start date. Beginning with the Summer/Fall 2010 student
cohort, first semester students who fail or withdraw from both Nursing Fundamentals (10543101) and Nursing
Pharmacology (10543103) will not be allowed to progress in the Nursing Program. These students will be advised
to contact the academic adviser regarding other education and career options.
Withdraw or Fail
Students who withdraw from or fail any of their nursing courses will be considered students out-of-sequence, as
they need to repeat a course(s) in order to proceed to the subsequent semester.
 Beginning with the Summer/Fall 2010 student cohort, students who fail or withdraw and are currently
failing, from three different nursing courses (543101-543116) will not be allowed to progress in the
Nursing Program. These students will be advised to contact the academic adviser regarding other
education and career options.
 Students who withdraw from or fail any of their nursing courses must complete a Nursing Program Reentry Form and submit it to the Nursing Program Director.
 This form is attached to this procedure and available in the Nursing Program Student Handbook
 The Nursing Program Re-entry Form specifies the students desire to continue in the nursing program, and
the students plan for repeating the necessary course(s).
 The student is neither eligible to register for current semester courses (to repeat) nor subsequent semester
courses, until the Nursing Program Re-entry Form has been submitted and further instructions are given
via NTC email or blackboard announcements.
 Students who fail to complete and submit the Nursing Program Re-entry Form by the day after the
semester grading day will be inactivated from the Nursing Program, as this indicates that the student no
longer wants to continue in the NTC Nursing Program.
General Education Courses
Students who fail or withdraw from a general education course that is a pre/co-requisite for a nursing course are
ineligible to progress into the subsequent semester.
 Students must complete the Nursing Program Re-entry Form and submit it to the Nursing Program
Director.
 The general education course must be completed before the student can progress in the Nursing Program.
33
Dis-enrollment in Nursing Courses


Students who register for a course(s) they are ineligible to take will be removed from the course(s).
Students enrolled in a nursing course(s) for which they have not met the prerequisites and co-requisites
will be removed from the nursing course(s).
Re-entry
Students will re-enter the NTC Nursing Program according to the following process and Nursing Progression
Priority:
 Availability of open seats for students seeking re-entry will be determined within 10 business days after the
NTC semester grading day date.
 Students who have submitted a Nursing Program Re-entry Form by the due date will be considered for reentry.
 Once available seats are determined, the Nursing Program will notify the student of the decision and the
process to follow, via NTC email.
 If the program is unable to accommodate every student seeking re-entry, the program will select those reentering via a lottery drawing. If a student is not selected to reenter, they will be considered first among
those re-entering the following semester.
Nursing Progression Priority
When determining re-entry, the Nursing Program will follow the priority list below:
1. Continuing Nursing Program students
2. NTC Nursing Program students who have successfully completed courses at NTC from which they
withdrew/failed
 Students who have already attempted a course in a semester and successfully repeated it will have
priority over students who successfully repeated a course in the previous semester
3. Students seeking immediate re-entry into courses from which they withdrew/failed and submitted the
Nursing Program Re-entry Form by the due date.
 Students who do not meet the due date will be considered on a case-by-case basis
4. NTC program students who have successfully completed courses (they previously withdrew/failed) at
another college. An official transcript must be sent to and received in the NTC Records Office before they
are eligible to register for NTC nursing courses.
 Students repeating a course at another college may not get into the subsequent course because it may
be full by the time the transcript has been received.
5. Students who wish to take a NTC nursing course without enrolling in the NTC Nursing Program
 For example, a student who just needs to take a clinical course
Students meeting the below criteria will be placed on Nursing Admissions/Re-entry committee log
and will require a meeting with the committee to determine progression plan.
6. LPNs entering 3rd semester
7. Students seeking reentry after being out of nursing courses for one or more semesters
8. Students transferring in from another Nursing Program (WTCS, UW System, Private Colleges and
Universities)
Repeating Courses
Students may enroll in a NTC Nursing Program course two times.
 If the student does not successfully complete the course on the second attempt, he/she will not be allowed
to continue in the nursing program. As of May 2010, students must be successful within two attempts in a
nursing course in order to progress in the Nursing Program.
 If a student repeats a Nursing Program course for a third time at a different college, the course cannot be
used for consideration to re-enter the NTC Nursing Program. Students unable to continue in the Nursing
Program will be counseled regarding their education and career options
34
Unsafe
A clinical grade issuance of “Unsafe” may warrant immediate dismissal from the nursing program. The student may
or may not be allowed to apply for readmission to the nursing program. See clinical syllabi for further definition of
“unsafe”.
35
Nursing Program Re-Entry Form
Please complete the following information and submit to Lorraine Zoromski, Dean of Health; fax to 715/675-5621,
drop off at the 4th floor of the Health Science Center or mail to Northcentral Technical College 1000 W. Campus Dr.
Wausau, WI 54401, mailstop HSC2).
Name: ________________________________________________________
Last
First
Student ID: _______________
M.I.
Phone: _______________Current Semester:  1st
 2nd
 3rd
 4th
Please indicate your intention:
 I intend to continue in NTC’s Nursing program.
 I intend to withdraw from NTC’s Nursing program.
First Semester
 10-543-101 Nursing Fundamentals
 Retake at NTC
 Retake at another college

10-543-102

10-543-103 Nursing Pharmacology
 Retake at NTC
 Retake at another college

10-543-104
Nursing Skills
Expected course completion date: _____________________
Expected course completion date: _____________________
Nursing Intro to Clinical Practice
Second Semester
 10-543-105 Nursing Health Alterations
 Retake at NTC
 Retake at another college

Expected course completion date: _____________________
Expected course completion date: ____________________
10-543-106 Nursing Health Promotion
 Retake at NTC
 Retake at another college
Expected course completion date: _____________________
Expected course completion date: _____________________
Expected course completion date: _____________________
Expected course completion date: _____________________

10-543-107
Nursing Clinical Care Across the Lifespan

10-543-108
Nursing Intro to Clinical Management
Third Semester
 10-543-109 Nursing Complex Health Alterations 1
 Retake at NTC
Expected course completion date: _____________________
 Retake at another college
Expected course completion date: _____________________



10-543-110 Mental Health Community Concepts
 Retake at NTC
Expected course completion date: _____________________
 Retake at another college
Expected course completion date: _____________________
10-543-111 Nursing Intermediate Clinical Practice
- Over 10-543-112
Nursing Advanced Skills
36
Fourth Semester
 10-543-113 Nursing Complex Health Alterations 2
 Retake at NTC
Expected course completion date: _____________________
 Retake at another college
Expected course completion date:_____________________

10-543-114 Nursing Management Concepts
 Retake at NTC
Expected course completion date: _____________________
 Retake at another college
Expected course completion date: _____________________

10-543-115
Nursing Advanced Clinical Practice

10-543-116
Nursing Clinical Transition
What was the semester and year you took your first core Nursing class (Nursing Fundamentals, Nursing
Pharmacology)? _____________________________________________________________________________
Have you withdrawn or failed another/other NTC Nursing or general education course(s)?  Yes
 No
If so, which one(s) and when?
Course Name: ____________________________________
When: ______________________________
Course Name: ____________________________________
When: ______________________________
Course Name: ____________________________________
When: ______________________________
Course Name: ____________________________________
When: ______________________________
Course Name: ____________________________________
When: ______________________________
Course Name: ____________________________________
When: ______________________________
Course Name: ____________________________________
When: ______________________________
Have you taken a Nursing course(s) at another post-secondary location?
 Yes  No
If so what course and where?
Course Name: ____________________________________
Where/When: ________________________
Course Name: ____________________________________
Where/When: ________________________
Course Name: ____________________________________
Where/When: ________________________
I understand completing this form after a withdrawal or failed attempt will allow me to be considered for re-entry,
and re-entry is dependent upon space availability and the Nursing progression priority list. I additionally understand
I must complete 25% of my course work at NTC to graduate.
Signature: ___________________________________________
37
Date: _______________________________
Dress Policy
The student is expected to follow the NTC ADN Dress Policy whenever representing NTC or
the nursing program. This includes all clinical and community experiences and some lab
courses. Occasionally a clinical will prescribe dress outside of the standard uniform. Check
with your clinical instructor when in doubt as to appropriate dress. Students who do not
follow this policy may be sent home.
NTC official uniform:










Royal blue (third and fourth semester students) scrub top and bottom, Cherokee brand,
ordered from designated uniform stores
Students in first and second semester will wear the Navy blue scrub uniform. This can be
ordered through the NTC bookstore or designated uniform stores.
Warm-up jackets (to match color of uniform) to cover scrub top, ordered from designated
uniform stores
Optional: Plain, white short or long sleeve t-shirt or turtle neck under scrub top.
Neutral or white socks
Clean, white shoes or white clogs with closed toes.
NTC name pin ordered through the bookstore must be worn on upper right or left chest
area unless the agency provides a name badge
Wristwatch with sweep second hand
Stethoscope without cloth sleeve
Additionally, pregnant students will be asked to wear an approved alternative scrub top with
their uniform.
Examples of inappropriate dress in the clinical areas include the following:



Tight-fitting clothing of any kind
Visible midriff or backs
Sloppy-appearing clothing such as pants that touch the floor and stained, and wrinkled or
worn clothing
Personal Appearance:
Good grooming and personal hygiene habits are as important as the clothes you wear
for both a professional appearance and client safety. Research has shown that the risk
of spread of infection is increased through the wearing of long fingernails and loose
hair, and overall poor hygiene.






Cleanliness: regular bathing, use of deodorants, oral hygiene, elimination of tobacco
odors, and NO use of scented products
Hair: clean and neatly combed, kept off of shoulders, pulled back with simple accessories.
Facial hair: beards, mustaches must be clean and trimmed
Fingernails: nails should be short, manicured, and clean; nail polish is limited to light and
neutral shades of color only; artificial nails are not allowed
Jewelry: one simple ring, one simple pair of non-dangling earrings, and watch. ALL other
jewelry (including other earrings, and facial or tongue jewelry) and earlobe stretching are
unacceptable.
Tattoos/hickies: must be covered as much as is possible
Gum chewing: not permitted during clinical
38
Student Services and Activities
Advisors
Students will be assigned a nursing faculty advisor at the beginning of each semester.
Additional student responsibilities include:




Check Blackboard, and your NTC email address for communication from faculty on a
regular basis. Faculty and other staff from NTC will not use an email address other
than your NTC email address.
Be responsible for knowing NTC and program policies and procedures. It is not
productive use of faculty time to point them out to you when they are always
available to you.
Respect the faculty advisor’s time: schedule appointments within office hours,
arrive promptly, come prepared, and communicate issues in a timely manner.
Utilize the resources that are available and are recommended to you.
Faculty and Students Talking (FAST)
Many times students have questions about the format of a course or the program in
general. The purpose of FAST is to draw students and faculty together in a scheduled
meeting to discuss concerns, strengths, and these questions in an open and
constructive manner. The numbers of meetings per semester will be determined by the
instructor and will be outlined in the course syllabus.
Study Groups
One proven strategy for enhancing learning and reinforcing concepts is study groups.
Working together can greatly enhance your pace of learning as well as challenge you to
examine problems from a variety of perspectives. The faculty of the NTC nursing
program strongly endorse students forming study groups to facilitate learning, however
they suggest using the following guidelines when forming and implementing this
strategy for greatest success.
39
Study Groups: Guidelines for Success
Getting Started
1. Look for classmates who are alert and motivated, who take notes, who ask questions,
who respond to instructors questions.
2. Limit the group to three to six people.
3. Consider schedules and commute as well as other personal needs that may interfere
with scheduling
4. Have a trial session at a neutral setting such as a library or community center. Avoid
homes where there can be many distractions.
5. Develop ground rules, for example: must leave the group if comes unprepared or does
not show X number of times.
Conducting the Session
1. Keep the focus! Assign a chairperson for each session. This person is responsible for
keeping the session productive, on time, and assuring full, and equal, participation of all
the members.
2. Prepare an agenda for each meeting. With each member responsible to report on or
explain a section of the reading and bring three to seven NCLEX style questions (from
review books) related to their assigned subject.
3. The group meeting should be conducted to cover all the reports within the planned time
– from one to two hours depending on the agenda. Each person should make their
presentation so good that it “teaches” the material to others. Then ask questions,
compare notes, challenge assumptions, and discuss the NCLEX questions.
Closing the Session
1. Take five minutes to talk about the value of the session, and in particular to discuss
ways in which each member could make it better.
2. Plan the next meeting agenda: chairperson, assign material, verify time and location
3. Commit to sticking with it. It may take a few sessions to get the method working, but if
you stick with it and follow the guidelines, it will usually increase learning.
4. Structure is key!
Common Problems
1.
2.
3.
4.
Some members may come unprepared
The group may become disorganized when disagreement occurs
Some members may not participate
The group may allow some members to dominate the discussion
5. The group may not stay on task and finish on time
What to do if this occurs?
1. Refer to ground rules the group developed and hold members accountable.
2. Contact the NTC Learning Center for more information.
40
Student Nurse’s Club
As a nursing student, you are invited to join the Student Nurse Club. The Student
Nurse Club’s goal is to promote professionalism, leadership, community service, and
political awareness in nursing. Students belonging to the club have opportunities to
participate in conferences for nursing students within the state of Wisconsin. You will
see periodic emails of upcoming meetings. You are invited to any meeting that fits in
your schedule. There is no need to RSVP, just join the group. Watch for activities of
the club on the bulletin board in the HLRL. The club participates in community events
such as food drives and blood drives.
Thank-You Cards
Thank-you notes to clinical agencies and faculty are appropriate. Gifts to faculty, staff,
and agencies are discouraged.
Faculty
How to Contact Faculty
Faculty provide at least five office hours per week for student availability. Students are
encouraged to request appointments during the posted office hours. Faculty can be
contacted in the following ways:

Phone: 715-675-3331. Individual extensions are provided via syllabus and
campus information. All faculty have voice mail and encourage students to leave
messages.

E-mail: faculty last name (up to 8 characters) @ntc.edu

Campus-to-campus phone calls are available to all students toll-free. The campus
facilitator nearest the origination of your call and/or ITV control room operator can
assist you by calling the instructor at 715-675-3331.

Many faculty in the clinical setting will have pager numbers available for student
contact.

A faculty directory is included in this handbook.

Faxes may be sent to the attention of (instructor name) by using the fax number:
715-675-5621.

Communication with faculty at their homes is at the faculty discretion.
41
References from Faculty
Frequently students are asked to provide references from faculty for employment and
scholarship opportunities. However, it is important that the correct procedure is
followed:
Ask the instructor first, making sure that you have indeed had a class or clinical course
with that instructor during the program. (Providing the form to complete without a
verbal or written request, does not count as a request. Faculty will not complete a
reference letter without a student’s verbal or written request).
Plan ahead! Give the instructor at least one week, and preferably more, lead time.
The instructor may not be able to complete the needed forms without adequate time.
The instructor fills out the forms and submits them to Student Services.
STUDENT REFERENCE FORM PROCEDURE
The student reference form is used by students who wish to have an employment
reference from an instructor.
Student Procedure
1. Locate the form on the website at:www.ntc.edu/placement, then under students,
“Student Reference Form.”
2. Print out the form, complete the necessary information, and sign it.
3. Give the completed, signed form to the instructor with a stamped envelope that is
addressed to the employer.
4. Provide a self addressed envelope or a valid email address to your instructor if a
personal copy of the completed
Student Reference Form is requested.
5. If the employer needs the form quickly, provide the instructor with a fax number.
Faculty Procedure
1. After receiving the signed form and prepared envelope from a student, complete the
requested information and send it to the employer.
2. If requested, faculty may send a signed copy to the student.
3. Faculty may want to keep a copy of the signed sheet.
4. A verbal or written reference to the employer is also appropriate.
5. FERPA Regulations: FERPA, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 as
amended, restricts information about students that can be provided by College staff.
Compliance is required by ALL staff of the institution.
6. The student’s signature on the reference form authorizes faculty to provide
information if contacted directly by the employer.
42
Nursing-Associate Degree Program Faculty and Staff
Dean of Health
Lorraine Zoromski
X 1356 or zoromski@ntc.edu
Nursing Program Director
Luann Theis
X 1349 or theis@ntc.edu
Mary Thao
College Advising Specialist, Health
X 1634 or thao@ntc.edu
Linda Kent
R.N. M.S.N.
E-mail: kent@ntc.edu
X1350
Barbara Lawson
R.N., M.S.C.
E-mail: lawson@ntc.edu
X1351
Connie Lindmeier
R.N., M.S.N.
E-mail: lindmeie@ntc.edu
X1352
Vicki Maguire
R.N., M.S.N./M.H.A.
E-mail: maguirev@ntc.edu
X1374
Kathleen Maves
R.N., M.S.N.
E-mail: maves@ntc.edu
X1353
Caroline Neumueller
R.N., M.S.N.
E-mail:neumueller@ntc.edu
X1346
Val Palarski
R.N., M.S.N.
E-mail: palarski@ntc.edu
X1344
Marlene Roberts
R.N., M.S.N.
E-mail: roberts@ntc.edu
X1620
Kathy Semling
R.N., M.S.N.
E-mail: semling@ntc.edu
X1355
Jill Stumpner
R.N., M.S.N.
E-mail: stumpner@ntc.edu
X1347
43
Luann Theis
R.N., M.S.N. O.N.C.
E-mail: theis@ntc.edu
X1349
Mardie Timken
R.N., M.S.N.
E-mail: timken@ntc.edu
X1378
Penny Zahl
R.N., M.S.N.
E-mail: zahl@ntc.edu
X1358
44
Resource List
Wisconsin Nurse Practice Act and Wisconsin Rules of Conduct:
http://drl.wi.gov/prof/rn/def.htm
ANA Code for Nurses:
http://www.med.howard.edu/ethics/handouts/american_nurses_association_code.htm
The Patient Care Partnership (Patient Bill of Rights):
http://www.aha.org/aha/issues/Communicating-With-Patients/pt-care-partnership.html
and http://www.apa.org/pubinfo/rights/rights.html
Americans with Disability Act: www.ada.gov
NTC website: www.ntc.edu
NTC Student Help Desk: 715/675-3331 ext. 1660
45
Appendix A: Skill and Medication Safety during Clinical Experiences
Pertains to: Faculty and students in the Associate Degree Nursing Program
Purpose:
The purpose of the policy is to assure safe client care through the consistent application
of best practice safety procedures.
Policy:
NTC recognizes national guidelines for patient safety through the theory taught and
practice component (clinicals) of the nursing student’s education. Safe practices in
clinicals includes interventions at all points along the continuum of care. This policy
further defines safety specific to 1) the correct performance of psychomotor skills, and
2) correct medication administration to clients. The steps of either of the above
naturally follow the nursing process and include:






preparation
patient education, bedside manner
skill performance
clean up patient care area
documentation and communication
immediate and/or ongoing monitoring and evaluation
Failure to perform any of these steps does NOT support competency of the skill and
implies the need for continued practice.
I. Psychomotor Skill Safety
The student will:
A. prior to any skill, look up the agency’s procedure to determine any potential
differences from the way he/she learned in skill lab and explain the rationale
and planned approach.
B. check with the instructor prior to performing a skill at the beginning of a
rotation; when performing for the first time; with any higher level skill; and
as specified by the instructor of a given course.
C. Perform agency-approved client identifier checks prior to performance of skill.
II. Medication Skill Safety
The student will:
A. perform systematic check of the “5 Rights” prior to any medication
administration
46
B. double check with instructor or RN the entire medication preparation process,
beginning with verification of the medication against the order, for the
subcutaneous, IM, or IV administration of all of the following medications:
-insulins
-anticoagulants
-controlled substances
C. for all IV medications, refer to agency’s IV manual for correct preparation and
administration and monitoring.
D. be prepared to discuss at any time with the instructor or RN a medication’s
trade/generic name, class, indications, side effects, and monitoring
E. be aware of, and comply with, all institutional safe medication policies,
including such things as preparation and documentation of certain
medications, and avoiding use of dangerous abbreviations in word and
symbol.
F. check with the instructor or client’s RN prior to administration of any PRN
medications.
47
Appendix B: Student Impairment and Client Safety
POLICY:
While the health sciences student is working in the clinical situation with clients, safety
of the client is considered of utmost importance. Therefore if, for any reason, either
the NTC clinical instructor or clinical affiliate staff (both of whom typically work closely
with the student), believes that the student demonstrates evidence or signs of
impairment, they reserve the right to dismiss the student from the clinical setting
immediately. The student and NTC clinical instructor will then meet to determine the
student’s eligibility to return to clinical.
48
Appendix C: Guidelines for Student Papers and Protecting Client Privacy
Policy:
Students routinely collect and record data on clients in the clinical setting as an inherent
part of the educational process. The data may include demographics, physical and
psychosocial data, and other personal information, any individual piece or combination
of which could readily identify the patient to an outside reader. This information
typically appears in written assignments which are turned into instructors or shared
within a group of students. It is the policy of the faculty of NTC to teach the student to
protect this information as much as possible in accordance with prevailing patient
privacy acts, without jeopardizing his or her learning experience. Therefore, the
following guidelines will be communicated to students and followed as closely as
possible.
Definition:
Demographic information: For purposes of this guideline, includes any personal or
descriptive information about a client which could potentially reveal his or her identity.
Examples would be initials, age, race, occupation, address, room number, etc.
Guidelines:
1. Use only client initials, never full names on assignments, unless names are
identified as “fictitious”.
2. Use no more than one specific client identifier on a paper. A specific client
identifier would be considered client initials, address, or room number at the
institution.
3. Students may work on papers at home, as long as the contents are protected.
4. Papers should be kept secluded in a file when not being worked on, and never
left unattended when working on.
5. Papers should not be available for any other individual to see outside of those
with a specific interest in them, i.e., the instructor, the client’s immediate
caregiver, or a deliberate group assignment.
6. Once papers are permanently released to the student, the student must remove
or obliterate all demographic information. If the student wishes to destroy the
paper, demographic information still must first be removed or obliterated. This
includes all electronic files.
7. NO discussion of clinical clients on social network sites. This is a direct HIPPA
violation, unethical and could be seen by the public. This type of action could
result in dismissal from the program.
49
Appendix D: Reasonable Accommodations Plans for Impaired Functional
Abilities
Pertains to: Health Occupations Program students/staff
Purpose:
The purpose for having a “Reasonable Accommodations Plan” is for students who may
suffer injury or health impairment during program enrollment, which results in their
inability to meet certain Functional Abilities within their field of study.
Policy:
If possible, NTC will make every effort, following an evaluation, to accommodate
students with injuries or episodic health problems so that they can complete their
clinical or lab rotations while maintaining the same level of clinical standards. Since the
situations may vary widely, thus impacting on varied Functional Abilities, the
evaluations must be done on an individual basis. NTC understands that while
accommodations made to complete a program may be reasonable, they may not be
reasonable for an employment situation.
Procedure:
Following a hospitalization, injury, or health impairment which impacts on Functional
Abilities and prior to returning to clinical:
1. The student must provide the Program Director with a medical release form
signed by a qualified health care provider. If there are no work restrictions, then
a plan will not be written.
2. A copy of work restrictions, signed and dated by a qualified health care provider,
must be received by the program director.
3. A “Reasonable Accommodations Plan” will be written, which outlines in part:
a. ways in which the student may function during the clinical shift while still
meeting clinical objectives and maintaining patient safety
b. specific timeframes that the plan covers
c. a release of NTC from liability
4. The Program Director will ensure that the student understands the plan, signs
the form, and is given a copy.
5. A copy of the plan will be sent to the Dean of Health Occupations and copies of
the plan and the health care provider’s work restrictions will be given to the
clinical instructor.
50
6. It is the responsibility of the clinical instructor to inform unit staff at the clinical
agency of the student’s plan and to provide a copy if they request it.
51
Appendix E: Notice of Intent to Transfer a Core Nursing Course from Another WTCS
College
Procedure

This option is only available to students accepted into the core nursing course portion of
the nursing program

In order to transfer a core nursing course taken at another technical college to NTC’s
nursing program, you must submit this form prior to the start of the course.

Students must complete one form for each course.

Students must agree to abide by all the policies and procedures of NTC and the Nursing
Program, including requirements for numbers of credits taken with NTC.

If this course is a co-requisite for another clinical course you are in, you must remain
enrolled in the course in order to remain enrolled in the clinical course. If you withdraw
from the on-line course, you must immediately notify the nursing program and must
withdraw from the clinical course.

If you fail or withdraw from this course, this counts as an unsuccessful attempt at the
nursing course.
Student Name: ___________________________________ Date: ___________________
Student Signature: ________________________
Student ID Number: _____________
Core Nursing Course: _____________________________________________________
College of Enrollment: _____________________________________________________
End of Semester Date for the Course: _________________________________________
Proof of Enrollment Document Attached: ______________________________________
Documentation of Completion:
An official transcript must be submitted to the NTC Records Office before you are eligible to
register for subsequent NTC nursing courses.
Complete this form and return to the Dean of Health, Lorraine Zoromski.
52
Appendix F: Nursing Student Code of Conduct
The Nursing Program Code of Conduct starts with the expectations outlined in Northcentral
Technical College’s policy regarding student responsibilities. Because nursing students are
entering a profession that has its own ethical responsibilities, you must be aware of and adhere
to additional requirements.
The nursing profession demands that nurses are responsible, accountable, self-directed and
professional in behavior. The American Nurses Association (ANA) “Code of Ethics” was
developed as a guide “for carrying out nursing responsibilities in a manner consistent with
quality in nursing care and the ethical obligations of the profession.” The ANA “Code of Ethics”
provides a framework for the professional practice of nurses involved in clinical, academic, and
community settings. The process of becoming a professional nurse begins upon entering a
professional education program.
The NTC nursing program “Code of Conduct” is based on the understanding that to practice
nursing as a student is an agreement to uphold the trust that society has placed on nursing as a
profession. The statements within the “Code of Conduct” below provide guidance for the
nursing student in the personal development of an ethical foundation.
As a NTC nursing student, I will:
1. Demonstrate professional behavior while interacting with classmates, instructors, and
other college and agency staff assisting in learning.
 Refrain from inappropriate verbal and/or nonverbal language
 Refrain from inappropriate language or use of social networking
1. NO discussion of clinical clients on social network sites. This is a direct
HIPPA violation, unethical and could be viewed by the public. This type
of action could result in dismissal from the program.
2. No inappropriate discussion of Northcentral Technical College, faculty,
staff, and/or peers
 Be punctual and attend class consistently.
 Maintain confidentiality and privacy.
 Demonstrate accountability for actions and responsibility for learning.
 Resolve conflict by communicating in a truthful and timely manner to the
appropriate person(s).
 Maintain professional boundaries with clients, faculty and health care providers.
 Abstain from the use of alcoholic beverages or any substances that impair
judgment in the academic and clinical setting.
 Strive to achieve and maintain an optimal level of personal health.
2. Collaborate with academic faculty and clinical staff to ensure the highest quality of client
care and the highest potential of my development.
3. Encourage and openly accept feedback from faculty, clinical staff and peers aimed at
guiding my professional growth.
 I recognize that my success is dependent on my ability to seek and use
assistance when necessary.
4. Take appropriate action to promote the safety of clients, self and others.
5. Advocate for the rights of all clients regardless of social status or nature of health
problem.
53
6. Positively influence healthcare environments by respecting human rights, values and
choice of cultural and spiritual beliefs.
7. Maintain competence and promote excellence in nursing by actively pursuing lifelong
professional development.
8. Uphold college, NTC Nursing Student Handbook and affiliated agency policies and codes
of conduct related to academic and clinical performance.
9. Report any unprofessional conduct that violates standards within the code of conduct.
10. Refrain from any cheating or dishonesty, and take action to report dishonorable
practices to proper authorities.
References:
Northcentral Technical College, 2010-2011 Student Handbook and Planner
ANA “Code of Ethics”:
http://nursingworld.org/MainMenuCategories/EthicsStandards/CodeofEthicsforNurses.as
px
54