ADN
Nursing Program Handbook
2015-2016
Chipola College
A Higher Degree Of Success
Revised 7/2015
NURSING FACULTY & STAFF DIRECTORY
The official communication tool between students and faculty are the following office
numbers and via online Canvas.
Faculty:
Phone #:
Office #:
Amber Bruner, MSN, RN
718-2323
Q 222
Tina Dorsey, MSN, RN
718-2346
Q 217
Chastity Duke, MSN, Ed.S,
Ed.D, RN
718-2334
Q 220
Frances Henry-Bush, MSN, BSN
718-2438
Q 215
Megan Milton, MSN, ARNP
718-2294
Q 225
Amy Sampson, MSN, RN
718-2453
Q 213
Kelley Kindelspire, DNP, ARNP- BC
718-2435
Q 214
718-2434
Q 216
Mrs. Jennifer Ham
718-2316
Q 212
Nursing fax#:
718-2495
Patient Simulation Coordinator:
Shanna May, BSN, RN
Staff Assistant:
Dean:
Karen Lipford, PMHNP-C, Ed.D
718-2278
Q 211
Senior Vice-President of Instruction:
Sarah Clemmons, Ph.D.
718-2213
A-188B
718-2288
A -190
President Chipola College:
Jason Hurst, Ph.D.
2
Table of Contents
Welcome ………………………………………………………………………………
5
Student Learning
Outcomes……………………………………………………………………………….
6
Professional Standards….…………………………………………………………….
7
Hospital National Patient Safety Goals……………………………………………….
8
Performance Standards……………………………………………………………….
9
Mission Statement/Vision/Philosophy…………………………………………………
10
Nursing Program Concepts/Student Learning Outcomes………………………………
11
Policies/Scholastic Standards/Program Requirements and Progression Processes ...…
12
Clinical Experience ……………..…………………………………………………..…
13
Program Testing Processes…..……………………………………………………….
14
Attendance..……………. …………………………………………….……….……
15
Academic/Clinical Warning…………………………………………………………
16
Classroom Conduct & Behavior……………………………………………………..
16
On Campus Lab & Skill Lab.……………………………………………………….
16
Health Requirements……………………………………………………………….
16
Liability Insurance….………………………….…………..………………………..
17
Communication……………………………………………………….………..……..
17
Dress Code …………………………………………………………………….…….
17
Ethics and Professional Behavior……………………………………………...……
18
HIPPA Policy…………………………………………………………………………
18
3
Program Dismissal …………………………………………………………………..
19
Licensure and Board Exams…………………………………………………...…….
19
Background Checks..……………………………………………………………….….
20
General Information …………...……………………………………...………………
Safety……...………………………………………………………………….
Valuables……………………………………………………………………..
Accountability/Maintaining Skills………………………….…………….....
Academic Honesty…………………………………………………………..
Student Signatures……………………………………………………………
Approved Style Guide……………………………………………….……….
Change of Address/Phone………………………………….……….………..
Release of Information……………………………………………………….
Copying ………………………………………………………………………
Student Services………………………………………………………………
Policy/Children on Campus………………………………………………….
Restrictions…………………………………………………………………..
Gifts to Faculty………………………………………………………………
21
22
22
22
22
22
22
23
23
23
23
23
23
24
Outside Employment……………………………………………………………….
24
Program Scholarship Information………………………………………………….
24
Waiver of License Guarantee….……………………………………………………
25
Signature Page..……………………………………………………………………..
26
In addition to this Nursing Program Handbook, the student is responsible for reviewing the
college policies and the Chipola Student Catalog.
4
CHIPOLA COLLEGE
A Higher Degree of Success
Health Sciences Department
3094 Indian Circle
Marianna, Florida 32446-2053
www.chipola.edu
850-718-2316
Dear Student:
Congratulations! You have embarked on a journey to join a great profession. Welcome
to the Chipola College Associate Degree in Nursing Program and welcome back to
those students returning to advanced levels within the program. We look forward to
meeting your educational goals and fostering your career pathway as a professional
nurse.
In order to assist you in your role as a nursing student, and ultimately as a graduate, we
have assembled this handbook and policies tailored especially for you. The policies are
specific to the Associate Degree Nursing Program and are a supplement to the general
College Student Handbook. These expectations parallel those of the Health Care
Agencies that employ our graduates. Please refer to the College Student Handbook for
policies related to students with disabilities, sexual harassment, substance abuse,
student rights and responsibilities as well as other important information.
This handbook is provided to establish your foundation in pursuing the nursing
profession.
Sincerely,
Dr. Karen Lipford, Dean
Department of Health Sciences
Chipola College
5
Chipola College
Student Learning Outcomes
N.1
Demonstrate knowledge of common, well-defined health needs with predictable
outcomes and prioritize and perform therapeutic interventions using current
nursing care standards.
N2.
Apply foundational knowledge of the nursing process on providing advanced
nursing care for clients throughout the life span.
N3.
Apply therapeutic communication techniques in providing advanced nursing care
for clients throughout the life span.
N4.
Utilize critical thinking skills in providing collaborative care for clients with
selected health alterations.
N5.
Identify culturally diverse populations and formulate and care to reflect diversity
throughout the life span.
N6.
Demonstrate use of relevant technology for client care and documentation.
N7.
Synthesize the use of safe, legal, and ethical practices to meet the needs of
individuals throughout the life span.
6
Professional Standards and Guidelines
A. The Associate degree nursing curriculum at Chipola College incorporates the
following established professional standards, guidelines, and competencies: 1)
American Nurses Association, 2) the American Nurses Association Code of
Ethics, 3) the National League for Nursing’s Competencies Model for 2010, 4)
Joint Commission National Patient Safety Goals, 5) Quality and Safety Education
for Nurses, 4) the Florida Board of Nursing (FBON) Educational Requirements,
6) the Alabama Board of Nursing (ABON) Educational requirements and 7) the
Florida Department of Education requirements. In addition, recent graduates and
clinical affiliates participated in its development by providing feedback about the
preparation of our graduates. The content of the Chipola College curriculum is
based on the NCLEX-RN blueprint provided by the National Council of State
Board Exams and aggregated data from standardized intra-curricular testing
provided by Health Educations Systems Incorporated (HESI).
Healthy People 2020
National Patient Safety Goals
NLN Standards
7
8
Performance Standards
Nursing students must be able to demonstrate the abilities listed below. Reasonable
accommodations will be made for students with disabilities. However, a candidate is
expected to perform in a reasonable independent manner.
Issue
Standard
Examples
Critical Thinking
Critical thinking ability sufficient for
clinical judgment
Interpersonal
Interpersonal abilities sufficient to
interact with individuals, families, and
groups from a variety of social, emotion,
cultural, and intellectual backgrounds.
Ability to cope with stress.
Communication abilities sufficient for
interaction with others in verbal and
written form. Ability to cope with
anger/fear/hostility of others in a calm
manner.
Physical abilities sufficient to move from
room to room and maneuver in small
spaces.
Identify cause-effect relationships
in clinical situations, develop
nursing care plans
Establish rapport with
patients/clients and colleagues
Communication
Mobility
Motor Skills
Hearing
Visual
Tactile
Strength/
Stamina
Gross and fine motor abilities sufficient
to provide safe and effective nursing care.
Auditory ability sufficient to monitor and
assess health needs.
Visual ability sufficient for observation
and assessment necessary in nursing
care.
Tactile ability sufficient for physical
assessment.
Sufficient stamina to provide patient care
and related responsibilities for extended
periods of time.
Explain treatment procedures,
initiate health teaching, document
and interpret nursing actions and
patient/client responses.
Move around in patient rooms,
work, spaces, and treatment areas;
administer cardiopulmonary
procedures
Calibrate and use equipment;
position patients/ clients.
Hear monitor alarms, emergency
signals, auscultatory sounds, cries
for help.
Observe patient/client responses.
Accurately prepare and administer
medication.
Perform palpation, functions of
physical examination and/or those
related to therapeutic intervention,
e.g. sense temperature change,
assess peripheral pulses,, insert a
catheter.
Adapt to shift work. Lift without
restrictions, from standing position.
Students with weight restrictions
cannot be accepted into clinical
courses.
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Chipola Health Sciences
Nursing Program
Mission Statement
Chipola College Health Sciences Nursing Program provides accessible, affordable,
quality health care education to qualified students.
Vision
Chipola College Health Sciences Nursing program utilizes innovative teaching
modalities and community partnerships to promote education in the healthcare field.
Faculty promotes quality healthcare education that embraces cultural, ethnic and social
diversity. Empowering the student to provide quality healthcare for individuals, families,
and communities.
Philosophy
Individuals are a reflection of their constant interaction with the environment as it relates
to health care from a perspective of adaptation, self-preservation, and selfactualization. The program’s function is to serve the student and the community by
providing nursing education that holds its constituents to the highest healthcare
standards.
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ADN Nursing Program Concepts and Student Learning Outcomes
Student Learning Outcome
Individual
Environment
Health
Adaptation, Selfpreservation to Selfactualization
X
X
X
X
N.1 Demonstrate knowledge of
common, well-defined health
needs with predictable outcomes
X
and prioritize and perform
therapeutic interventions using
current nursing care standards.
N2.Apply foundational
knowledge of the nursing
process on providing advanced
X
X
nursing care for clients
throughout the life span.
N3.Apply therapeutic
communication techniques in
providing advanced nursing care
X
X
for clients throughout the life
span.
N4. Utilize critical thinking
skills in providing collaborative
care for clients with selected
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
health alterations.
N5.Identify culturally diverse
populations and formulate and
care to reflect diversity
throughout the life span.
N6.Demonstrate use of relevant
technology for client care and
documentation.
X
N7.Synthesize the use of safe,
legal, and ethical practices to
X
X
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meet the needs of individuals
throughout the life span.
Policies
Policies governing the Nursing Program have been approved by the Chipola College
Board of Trustees and were formulated in compliance with rules and regulations set
forth by the Florida Board of Nursing
Scholastic Standards for Students
When a student registers at Chipola College, he/she is obligated to accept the college
rules and regulations, unless circumstances make changes desirable or necessary.
Program Requirements and Progression Process
Grading Scale for Nursing Courses:
A = 90 - 100
B = 80-89
C = 75 - 79
D = 60 - 74
F = 0 – 59
Please note that a minimum average grade of 75% on course exams, including midterm is required in each nursing course before a student is eligible to take the final
exam. All associate of science nursing students must complete the required academic
courses with grade of “C” or higher. Students who do not complete a required academic
course within the designated semester with at least a “C” will not be allowed to progress
in the nursing program.
Essential Facts for Course Progression

In order to enroll in any program course with a prerequisite, a grade of “C” or
better must have been earned in all prerequisite courses.

In addition to Chipola College graduation requirements, students must meet
these special requirements:
 A grade of “C” or better in each of the designated specialty courses in this
program.
 A grade of “C” or better in each of the designated courses in the Nursing
Program.
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







 A valid Health Care Provider CPR certificate from the American Heart
Association.
 Completion of a satisfactory end of program competency assessment
examination in theory and completion of an end of program clinical
evaluation.
All co-requisite courses must be satisfactorily completed before student
progresses to the next level. Prerequisite and co-requisite courses are listed in
the curriculum plan and course descriptions.
While in the ADN program, students will be actively participating in clinical and
simulation experiences. Critical nursing behaviors/skills will be evaluated in both
areas (clinical & simulation). If a student earns (3) unsatisfactory (U) grades in a
critical element for either area (clinical or simulation), the student will receive a
failing grade in the assigned semester course and will not be able to continue in
the course.
Students must satisfactorily pass the clinical and simulation component to pass
theory portion or grade is an “F” for the course.
Students must satisfactorily pass the theory course in order to pass the clinical
component. The grade for theory is the grade earned for clinical if clinical
performance is satisfactory.
GPA must be maintained at 2.0 or higher
Below “C” is unsatisfactory for progression in Nursing. Grades in the
nursing program are NOT rounded.
The clinical portions of nursing courses may not be taken as an Audit
CPR certification, annual TB skin test results, and a valid driver’s license or
picture ID are required to be scanned at the beginning of each semester via a
drop box in Canvas. Failure to adhere to this will disqualify you from clinical
assignments resulting in a “U” unsatisfactory for the assignment.
Failure to meet these requirements will result in failure to progress within the nursing
program. Returning to the program after failure or withdrawal is on a space available
basis. Students applying for readmission must turn in a letter to the Office of Student
Affairs and a copy to the Dean of Health Sciences. This is a limited access program
and spaces are not guaranteed.
Clinical Experience:
Students will be evaluated in the clinical and simulation lab aspect of each nursing
course. The clinical evaluation process will be graded as satisfactory “S”, unsatisfactory
“U”, Not assessed “NA”, or Needs Improvement “NI”. Care plans will receive either
satisfactory or unsatisfactory as stated in the course syllabi.
Preceptor Experience:
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Preceptor Experiences are a component of the third and fourth semesters in the nursing
program.
1. Theory component must be completed satisfactorily PRIOR to clinical
experience.
2. Clinical component must be completed in a timely and satisfactory manner.
Students not completing the required hours of experience will receive an Incomplete (I).
The (I) grade must be changed to a completion grade within the next semester or it will
be converted to a grade of (F).
Program Testing Processes
Standardized Testing:
Standardized computer testing is given throughout the nursing program to assist the
students to be successful on the NCLEX-RN examination, a computerized,
comprehensive test required for licensure. A standardized HESI tests are required at
the end of each semester. Specific information is included in the course syllabi.
 Students are required to take an instructor generated midterm exam and a HESI
final course exit exam for each course. The midterm exam and final HESI exam
will be calculated at 15% each for the course grade. The student is required to
have a non-rounded 75 average to be eligible to take the final HESI exam for the
class.
 At the completion of the program the student is required to participate in two
comprehensive HESI exit exams (HESI E2). The exams are provided for the
students benefit and will assist with identifying areas that may require
remediation prior to the NCLEX licensure exam. A student that fails to participate
in both exams will receive an Incomplete for the program. HESI test results
greater than 850 are known to be a national best practice indicator of student
success on the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. Students below this benchmark will
be offered remediation strategies to assist with program success.
 Math for Meds exam will be administered as a unit test in each course that has
an accompanying lab component. The instructor of the course will provide
information that may include but is not limited to the following: practice math,
modules, pretesting, quizzing, unit test, and remediation.
 Students are required to attend the three day NCLEX review course offered
on campus. Failure to complete the review course in its entirety will result
in a grade of incomplete for the program.
Program Remediation Options:
 Remediation strategies for HESI final exams with results less than 850 may
include one or all of the following:
 Sign a personal learning contract with assigned faculty
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


Individualized Remediation Plan
Complete a one on one faculty-student remediation counseling
session
Complete HESI case studies and adaptive testing
 Remediation strategies for program exit HESI (HESI E2) exam with results less
than 850 may include the above HESI course strategies in addition to the
following:

Attend an additional live review at the student’s expense

Participate in a Live Review on campus if available

Retake HESI specialty exams at the student’s expense with
faculty approval
Testing: All exams must be reviewed by the student within one week. After one
week, the exam grades will be final.
Computer Testing:
 Examinations are scheduled at the discretion of the nursing faculty.
 Students are expected to review rationales of electronic exams immediately upon
submission and submit inquiries to instructor before leaving the testing site, if
inquires are not submitted, the grades are considered final and students will not
have opportunity to further review exams or challenge grades
Paper Testing:
Procedures for testing have been developed to maintain the integrity of the testing
process. These procedures are to be followed in all classes and are at the discretion of
the faculty.
Online Courses
Online courses will be proctored per Chipola College policy. Students are required to
scan a copy of their valid driver’s license or a picture ID at the beginning of the course
via Canvas drop box. Noncompliant students will receive an “F” for the course.
Attendance



The nursing program is required to meet strict requirements for licensure by the
Florida Board of Nursing.
Regular attendance is required of all students and excessive absences for any
reason are a basis for failure in the nursing program.
Students are expected to telephone the Nursing Faculty/Clinical facility nursing
office if they are at a clinical site and cannot find their instructor.
15


Students are required to notify the clinical site or clinical instructor if they will be
late.
Tardiness will not be tolerated.
Academic and Clinical Warning
Instructors will email or place announcements via Canvas regarding the deadlines of
withdrawal dates for a course or resignation dates for all courses. A student in jeopardy
of failing an academic or clinical course may then contact the faculty member for an
appointment to discuss remediation strategies. This session will be documented and
signed by the faculty and student.
Classroom Conduct and Behavior
It is essential that the classroom be conducive to learning. The faculty and students are
to demonstrate courtesy and respect for one another. Incivility in the classroom is not
tolerated. Refer to the Chipola College Catalog for information on attendance, academic
honor code, and student grievance procedures.
On Campus Lab/Skills Lab
Simulation Component:
The Chipola College nursing program is equipped with pediatric and adult simulators.
The lab is open for practicing skills from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday – Thursday,
unless a lab class is scheduled. Students are responsible for cleaning and returning
supplies to the appropriate place after use in the clinical laboratory.
Health Requirements for Students
The student is responsible for all problems relating to personal health. The college or
clinical facility will not be financially responsible for any injury incurred in the classroom
or clinical area. Students are required to carry their own health and accident insurance.
* Students are required, at their own expense, to submit to a drug screening when
requested by the Dean of Health Sciences or nursing faculty. A positive drug test
will result in failing grades for all nursing courses and immediate dismissal from
the nursing program.
Students who miss clinical or simulation must present an excused absence to the
instructor. Please see course/instructor handouts for further information.
16
Liability Insurance
Liability insurance is required and included in the college registration and fees.
Communication




Cellular phones are to be turned off while in the classroom and in the clinical
area.
During an emergency situation, if someone must contact you, they may call the
operator who will notify the clinical instructor. The instructor will give you a
message or arrange for you to return the call.
Adhere to cell phone etiquette by avoiding the use of expletives and refraining
from writing in all caps which is considered to be “yelling”.
Online activities that include but not limited to social media such as Facebook
should include only appropriate and respectful content. Inappropriate postings
that include discriminatory remarks, photos, patient information, harassment, and
threats of violence or similar inappropriate or unlawful conduct, will not be
tolerated and may subject you to disciplinary action and include termination from
the program.
Dress Code
As a nursing student of Chipola College, you should present an image of
professionalism to the faculty and staff, and to the community. Your personal
appearance is an important factor in presenting this image therefore,
1.
Chipola College Nursing uniforms with identifying student patch properly
attached to the left shoulder are to be worn only while in the clinical area. (It is
NOT accepted practice to wear uniforms while shopping, visiting, etc.) Chipola
nursing scrubs are to be worn when a clinical uniform is not required. Skirts must
be knee length or longer. No sunglasses may be worn inside on your person
while in uniform.
2.
Personal cleanliness, clean and pressed clothing, clean shoes, good oral
hygiene, and the use of effective deodorant are all components of good grooming
and should be adhered to at all times. Nails are to be clean and short. Clear nail
polish is appropriate. No acrylic nails or false/extension eyelashes. No cologne,
smoke odor, perfume, or after-shave should be noted.
3.
Beards are to be short and neatly trimmed. Hair must be neatly contained as not
to violate sterile fields or procedures.
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4.
Students may wear a smooth wedding band (no stones), watch with a second
hand and one pair of small earrings. No other item of jewelry or visible body
piercing or tattooing is allowed.
5.
Makeup should be conservative. No extremes of hair color are permitted.
6.
Shoe styles with the clinical uniform and scrubs must be in all white leather
shoes including shoelaces with an enclosed toe and non-skid sole. Athletic
shoes that meet these guidelines will be acceptable. White hose or white socks
without decoration are to be worn with shoes.
7.
White Chipola College lab coat with name pin may be worn over the uniform or
scrubs.
8.
Uniforms must be buttoned or zipped, even during the pinning ceremony. White
undershirts may be worn underneath uniforms.
8.
Class and On Campus Activities Including Skills Labs
Low-cut, extremely tight, and/or revealing clothing and short shorts or short skirts
are not appropriate attire for Health Sciences building or the health care
agencies. Short tops, low cut jeans, skirts or shorts that reveal midriffs are not
appropriate dress. To assist students with their professional appearance the
dress code of the Associate Degree Nursing Program is the same as the dress
code used in the hospital setting when clinical uniforms are not required.
When reporting to a lab, students are to adhere to clinical dress codes for
appearance and behaviors. Blue scrubs are to be worn in the skills lab.
Ethical Conduct and Professional Behavior
It is expected that, as a student in the Chipola College Nursing Program, you will
conduct yourself according to the highest ethical standards as published in the
American Nurses Association Code of Ethics, as well as Standards for Ethical Conduct
established by the program facility. Please refer also to the Florida Nurse Practice Act
for more detail on the legal requirements for all nurses. The underlying principles of
these standards are based on common courtesy and ethical/moral behavior. These
standards are essential for you to grow professionally and to receive the desired trust
and respect of all members of the health care professions.
HIPPA Policy
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HIPAA (The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996) was created to
protect patient information in all forms (written, electronic, and verbal). PHI (Protected
Health Information) is not just the medical record. Any piece of information, whether
printed, hand written, spoken, or computerized is considered confidential information.
Such information left accessible or discussed inappropriately will be in violation of the
HIPPA Policy.
Sanctions for students in violation of HIPPA:
First Offense:
Any student found in violation of patient confidentiality will be given
a written warning to be filed in the student file. If the violation is
found to be blatant, intentional, or severe, the student may be
dismissed from the program.
Second Offense: The second violation will be documented and filed in the student file
and the student will be dismissed from the nursing course(s) that
they are enrolled in. If the violation is found to be blatant,
intentional, or severe, the student may be dismissed from the
program.
Third Offense:
This is the final offense. Documentation will be completed and
placed in the student file. The student will be dismissed from the
program.
Dismissal from the Nursing Program
Nursing students who are involved in any incident or clinical situation that places
the patient, student, clinical affiliate, faculty or college at risk is subject to dismissal from
the nursing program. The following are examples of such conduct but are not limited to:
 Gross negligence resulting in actual or potential harm to a patient or family
member
 Verbal threat of or physical harm to an individual
 Medical record falsification or dishonest verbal or written communication
 Presenting with a weapon or under the influence of drugs or alcohol
 Theft of items from clinical site, college or faculty/staff member
 Incivility in the classroom, clinical site, campus or social media
All incidents of threat or assault & battery against individuals or the institution will be
immediately reported to the appropriate authorities both internal to the college and/or
law enforcement agencies.
Licensure/State Board Exams
Practicing as a registered nurse in Florida is a privilege granted only by the Florida
Board of Nursing. The graduate must meet the educational preparation requirement,
pass the NCLEX examination and meet the other legal requirements as set forth in the
Florida Nurse Practice Act (Chapter 464 Florida Statutes) and the Rules of the Board of
19
Nursing (Chapter 64B9 Florida Administrative Code). For the latest information related
to licensure, go to www.doh.state.fl.us/mqa/nursing/nur_home.html and scroll down to
“Nursing”.
Candidates for licensure by examination with arrest records and candidates for
licensure by examination with physical and/or mental health problems need to
consult with the Board of Nursing as to the documentation that must be provided
as a part of the application process to sit for the examination after graduation.
Application for Licensure for all candidates involves the completion of two applications
as follows: Visit the web site at www.FloridasNursing.gov and select apply for initial
licensure. Select “Registered Nurse” and follow the instructions for downloading the
application. Candidates also need to register to sit for the exam with the testing
company by going to www.vue.com/nclex and completing the application. Contact the
Florida Board of Nursing at (850) 245-4125 if you have questions.
If a student elects to complete licensure in another state, the student is required to
contact the Admissions Office at Chipola for an official transcript and complete the
application process as designated by that states Board of Nursing.
In order to participate in the pinning ceremony the graduating student must:



Purchase a Chipola College nursing pin.
Adhere to the clinical dress code during the ceremony.
Participate in the scheduled practice for the pinning ceremony.
Background Checks
If a facility refuses access to a student at any time during the program and the
student is unable to meet the clinical requirement, then the student is ineligible to
progress and will receive a grade of “F” for the nursing class in which the student
is enrolled.
National criminal background checks are required on all applicants for the Nursing
Program and must meet agency requirements. Anyone ever arrested or given notice to
appear in court before a judge is likely to have a record.
An arrest history by itself does not disqualify a person from licensure. Falsification of a
document and attempts to procure a license by knowing misrepresentation are
violations of Chapter 464 the Nurse Practice Act.
Please refer to the Wavier of License Guarantee form in this handbook and return the
form to your instructor as directed.
20
Each application must be screened through the Federal Bureau Investigation (FBI).
While enrolled in a Chipola Health Sciences program, the student is also responsible for
notifying the Dean of any arrests within 72 hours, regardless of adjudication, that occur
after acceptance and during enrollment in a given program. Failure to promptly notify
the Dean will result in failure in all nursing courses.
After admission into the health sciences program of choice, the student must remain
free of disqualifying charges or may be subject to dismissal from the nursing program.
All students enrolled in a health related program are required to be drug and/or alcohol
free when at the college and while at "affiliating agencies" (including parking lots and
grounds).
For all "affiliating agencies” which require students to be subject to the agency’s Drug
Testing Policies when there is reasonable suspicion to believe a student may be
impaired, or is using or has used illegal drugs and/or alcohol, the student may be tested
in accordance with the "affiliating agency's" policies and will be responsible for
expenses incurred. If tested by an "affiliating agency" the student shall provide his/her
Dean with a copy of any test results. Failure to promptly do so may be grounds for
failure from the program.
General Information
Safety: You will be going to and coming from various clinical sites at odd hours either in
the morning or in the evening depending on your clinical schedule. Safety suggestions
can include:
· Walk in pairs.
· Keep valuables out of sight in your car (preferably in trunk).
· Use the shuttles provided by the agencies (from the parking lot to the agency as well
as from the agency back to the parking lot).
· Follow agency guidelines for safety.
· Do not carry purses and wallets into the clinical area.
· Keep your car locked.
· Prior to unlocking your car, check under your car.
· Be alert to any suspicious behavior and avoid talking to strangers especially if you are
alone.
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· No weapons, pocket knives or sharp instruments may be taken to clinical. It is against
college policy to carry concealed weapons on college grounds. College grounds
include clinical sites. You may not have guns even with a concealed weapon permit.
Other items not allowed include: knives, sharply pointed objects such as nail files,
pepper spray, etc.
Valuables: Purses and valuables are not to be brought into the clinical agency as
security cannot be guaranteed. It is suggested that you leave these items home or
secure them in your car's trunk.
Accountability and Maintaining Skills: As you continue your nursing education, you
continue to be responsible for all skills and knowledge, (including math calculations)
previously learned in earlier courses. If you fail to maintain your nursing knowledge
and skills, counseling will occur and you may be subject to a performance
agreement and placed on probationary status. Failure to meet the performance
agreement may result in failure of the course and suspension from the program. The
Learning Resource Lab (Skills Lab) is open for you to maintain previously learned skills.
Make (nursing skills lab) appointments for skills practice as necessary.
Academic Honesty: Students of the Health Sciences of Chipola College are expected
to maintain the highest standards of ethical behavior in the classroom and in the
workplace. Students are expected to cite references, use quotation marks, and do one’s
own work when preparing nursing care plans, writing papers, takings test, etc.
When in doubt, consult with a member of nursing administration or faculty as to the
appropriate procedures to follow.
Nursing students are required to meet the same ethical standards of registered nurses.
Students do not have a right to refuse care to a client because of their sex, disease
process, etc.
Student Signatures: Students must sign all charts as well as other official clinical
documentation with a signature that is legible. Patient safety is at risk with poor
handwriting.
Students who cannot write legibly will be counseled in writing and placed on
probation. While many hospitals are converting to computer charting, there are
still instances when handwriting can make the critical safety difference.
Approved Style Guide: The approved writing style guide for the Nursing Program is
the current edition of the Publication of the American Psychological Association (APA).
Copies are available in the library for reference. Students may also purchase their own
copy.
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The APA manual contains specifications for researching, writing, documenting and
formatting typewritten work. The text contains information on outlining a paper, creating
a table of contents, formatting a paper, or documenting references and quotations.
Students will be required to cite references and document quotations. This will be
considered as a part of the grade of the assignment. Failure to cite references and
sources for direct quotations is considered a violation of academic honesty.
Change of Address and/or Phone: Student responsibility is a two-step process:
· Notify the Dean, Nursing faculty and the Admissions office of change.
· Complete the nursing “change of address, name or phone number form” (available in
nursing office) and return to the nursing department clerical assistant. If this change
also impacts your emergency notification information, please ensure the change is
noted on the designated form.
Release of Information Form: When requesting information and/or references from
faculty members to clinical agencies you must obtain and sign a release form for each
individual agency. Faculties are not allowed to write “To Whom It May Concern”
letters. When requesting a reference, please have the name of the person and address
to whom it is to be sent. The “Release” forms are in the nursing office. Please allow 7 to
10 days for these letters to be written. They will be mailed directly to the agency. A copy
will be provided.
Copying: The College requires a student to maintain a positive balance for copying.
When the original amount of $15.00 collected during registration is depleted the student
is responsible for adding additional funds. The nursing instructors encourage students
to utilize laptops to offset this expense.
Student Services:
. Tutoring is available on campus through the ACE Lab
. Scholarships are available through the Chipola Foundation
. Meals are served at the Chipola Cafeteria and WIFI is accessible
. Chipola Library has online resources, periodicals and hard copies of resource material
Policy Regarding Children On Campus:
· Children are not allowed on campus as a general rule.
· Children may only be on campus accompanied by an adult for short periods of time
such as picking up an assignment or dropping off a paper.
· Children must be under constant supervision by the responsible adult.
· Children are not allowed in the classroom.
Restrictions: The Health Sciences Department prohibits all tobacco products, including
cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, cigars and cigarillos, hookah-smoked products, pipes,
oral tobacco and nasal tobacco, as well as any product “intended to mimic tobacco
products”, contain tobacco flavoring, or deliver nicotine are prohibited within the building
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and clinical assignments. Failure to comply with the policy will subject you to disciplinary
action and possible dismissal from the program.
· The Health Sciences Building is a smoke free building. The designated smoking area
is on the South side of the building.
· Eating and drinking are allowed only in designated areas so posted.
Faculty Gifts: While student groups sometimes choose to give faculty gifts, these are
discouraged. Florida Statutes define monetary limits that state employees may receive.
Outside Employment: The faculty realizes some students must work part-time while
attending school; however, work may not infringe or interfere with your nursing program
requirements. Remember that it is your responsibility to fulfill all obligations and meet
the standards of the Nursing Program. No student is permitted to be in clinical while at
the same time functioning in an “On Call” status for their employer. Students are
expected to attend clinical well rested and alert in order to be safe practitioners.
Students who are working may not work the previous 8 hours prior to clinical Students
who fail to comply will be sent home with an unsatisfactory for that clinical day.
Students are not permitted to have cellular phones to make personal or work related
calls during clinical hours. Class/Clinical time takes precedent over personal work
schedules.
If you appear too fatigued to perform safely in the clinical laboratory, the
instructor will dismiss you from the clinical agency. This will constitute an
absence.
Program Scholarships: The scholarship description, deadlines, requirements, and
application process is available at the Chipola College Foundation Office.


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Florida Nurses Association District 15 Scholarship
Westmoreland Nursing Scholarship
Anita Dekle, John Allen and Vereen Smith Endowment
Nursing Scholarship
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Chipola College
College of Nursing
WAIVER OF LICENSE GUARANTEE
Admission to or graduation from the Chipola College Nursing Program does not
guarantee obtaining a license to practice nursing. Licensure to practice as a Practical
Nurse or a Registered Nurse is required in Florida. Licensure requirements and
procedures are the right and responsibility of the Florida State Board of Nursing
exclusively.
Students must satisfy the requirements of the Nurse Practice Act, Chapter 464, section
464,008, and the Rules and Regulations of the State Board of Nursing, independently of
satisfaction of any college requirement for graduation.
Examples of situations that may result in your being unable to meet licensure
requirements include felony convictions, substance abuse, conviction of an offense
involving immoral behavior, or being guilty of acts that deceive, defraud or harm the
public in any way.
If there is any question about eligibility for licensure, contact first the Nursing Office and
then the Board of Nursing immediately.
I have read and understand the above statement.
____________________________
Signature
_________________
Date
______________________________
PRINT NAME HERE
This agreement will become part of your permanent record in the Chipola
Nursing Program.
Chipola College is dedicated to the concept of equal opportunity. The college will not discriminate on the basis of
race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin or marital status, or against any qualified individual with disabilities, in its
employment practices or in the admission and treatment of students. Recognizing that sexual harassment constitutes
discrimination on the basis of sex and violates this rule, the college will not tolerate such conduct.
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By signing below, I certify that I have read and fully
understand the policies and procedures of the Chipola
College Nursing program and will comply with the stated
policies and procedures.
I understand that by signing, I give permission to the
nursing program to share information regarding my
immunization status, health insurance status, and criminal
background check with the clinical facilities as required.
I acknowledge that my admission is provisional until the
results of my criminal background check are received and
reviewed.
I further understand that if I do not meet the attendance,
academic and clinical performance standards, as stated in
this handbook, I will not be able to progress in the nursing
program at Chipola College.
________________________________________
Print Name
_______________________________________
Student’s Signature/Date
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