College of DuPage
Practical Nursing
Program
Student Handbook
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Student Handbook, Linda Caputi, Revised 10/29/07
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Student Handbook, Linda Caputi, Revised 10/29/07
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Student Confirmation of Agreement
My signature below indicates that I have read the “College of DuPage Practical Nursing
Program Student Handbook” and I agree to comply with all the policies and procedures
contained in this document.
______________________________
Name (Please print)
_____________________________
Date
_____________________________
Signature
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Table of Contents
Welcome……………………………………………………………………………….5
Philosophy of the College of DuPage Practical Nursing Program…………………….6
Mission of the College of DuPage Practical Nursing Program………………………..9
Purposes of the College of DuPage Practical Nursing Program………………………10
Program Outcomes…………………………………………………………………….11
Organizing Framework………………………………………………………………..14
Admission to the Practical Nursing Program………………………………………….19
Procedures, Policies, and Requirements Following Acceptance into the PN Program.20
Standard Skills Required for all Health Care Programs……………………………….23
Curriculum Plan………………………………………………………………………..24
Student Participation in Program Meetings and Evaluation…………………………...28
Course Information and Policies……………………………………………………….29
General Information for All Learning Environments………………………….29
Compliance with Rules, Regulations, Policies, and Procedures……………….29
Attendance……………………………………………………………………...29
Student Code of Conduct…………………………………………………….....29
Smoking Policy…………………………………………………………………30
Syllabi…………………………………………………………………………...30
Progression Requirements…………………………………………………...….30
Student Work………………………………………………………………...….30
Privacy of Student Work and Records………………………………….............30
Written Assignments…………………………………………………………....31
Plagiarism……………………………………………………………………….31
Class Cancellation for Inclement Weather………………………………………31
Illness or Injury…………………………………………………………………..31
Cell Phones and Pagers…………………………………………………………..32
Children in Class…………..………………………………………………….….32
Student Assistance……………………………………………………………….32
Students with Disabilities………………………………………………………..32
Theory Class……………………………………………………………………..33
Nursing Laboratory ……………………………………………………………...35
Clinical …………………………………………………………………………..36
Learning Resources……………………………………………………………………....44
Student Concerns……………………………………………………………………...…46
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Procedure for Withdrawal from the Practical Nursing Program………………………47
Readmission Policy……………………………………………………………………48
Certificate Requirements………………………………………………………………49
Requirements for Licensure in the State of Illinois……………………………………50
Articulation…………………………………………………………………………….51
References……………………………………………………………………………...52
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Welcome
Welcome to the College of DuPage Practical Nursing Program! This Practical Nursing
Student Handbook provides important information that you will need throughout the
nursing program. Read this handbook carefully and refer to it whenever necessary. You
are responsible for the information contained in this document, as well as all other
Practical Nursing documents and the College of DuPage Catalog, 2007-2009. Changes in
policies or procedures may be necessary during your tenure in the nursing program and
will be posted, distributed in class, or mailed. The Practical Nursing Program adheres to
the College of DuPage policies and procedures. However, there are some instances when
the Practical Nursing Program has established its own policies and procedures to meet the
special needs of the curriculum.
Students must be knowledgeable about their rights and responsibilities within the
Practical Nursing Program and the College of DuPage. Every student is advised to
become familiar with this Practical Nursing Program Student Handbook and the College
of DuPage Catalog (2007-2009).
College of DuPage does not discriminate in its programs and activities on the basis of
race, color, religion, creed, national origin, sex, age, ancestry, marital status, sexual
orientation, arrest record, military status or unfavorable military discharge, citizenship
status, physical or mental handicap, or disability.
The College of DuPage administration, Practical Nursing Coordinator, Practical Nursing
faculty, and Practical Nursing staff wish you success as you pursue your nursing
education!
State Approval
The Practical Nursing Program at College of DuPage is approved by the Illinois
Department of Professional Regulation, 320 W. Washington Street, 3rd floor, Springfield,
Illinois 62786 (217) 785-0800. Our program prepares a graduate to be eligible to take the
National Council Licensure Examination for licensing as a Practical Nurse.
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Philosophy of the College of DuPage Practical Nursing Program
The faculty believe that Practical Nursing education is based on accepted standards of
community college education and is part of higher education. The COD Practical Nursing
program prepares the student to be a member of the collaborative team of professionals
that implement caring behaviors and clinical interventions to provide patient care in all
areas of nursing practice to promote, maintain, or restore health, and prevent illness for
individuals and groups across the life span and in a variety of clinical settings. The
curriculum provides knowledge from the biological and social sciences to provide a base
for implementing holistic care to individuals, families, and communities. The student
learns how to provide safe, accountable, and effective care to meet the patient’s
physiological, psychological, sociocultural, and spiritual needs.
The faculty believe this knowledge facilitates an understanding of the person,
environment, and health and stimulates individual growth and involvement in the
profession and the community. The COD Practical Nursing Program faculty believe in
incorporating information and trends based on current influences on health care and
nursing that impact the community the college serves. To meet that end, the Practical
Nursing Program meets yearly with representatives of community facilities that constitute
the membership of the Practical Nursing Program Advisory Council.
The COD Practical Nursing Program faculty believe it is necessary to have a curriculum
developed by nursing experts. Therefore, the curriculum of the COD Practical Nursing
Program is driven by the faculty and based on national and state standards. These
standards include the National Association for Practical Nurse Education and Service
(NAPNES) Standards of Practice for Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses, the NAPNES
Code of Ethics for Nurses, and the Standards of Professional Conduct for Practical
Nurses from the State of Illinois Rules for the Administration of the Nursing and
Advanced Practice Nursing Act, Section 1300.43, effective October 1, 2007. Using these
standards, the faculty is responsible for identifying the knowledge and competencies
required of students in each nursing course, for establishing minimum standards for
demonstrating such, and evaluating student performance to determine the degree to which
standards have been met.
The faculty believe a person is a unique holistic being with physical, emotional,
intellectual, social, spiritual, and environmental needs. These needs, which are common
to all human beings regardless of culture, race, or gender, exist throughout a person’s life
span and are influenced by levels of health and interaction with the environment. Nursing
care is provided considering the person, health, and environment within a health care
delivery system. Diversity of individuals is a core component for practical nursing.
Students learn to understand, respect, and accept any differences and similarities among
the varied patients in their care. Faculty provide the same understanding, respect, and
acceptance of any differences and similarities among the varied students who enroll in
the COD Practical Nursing Program.
The faculty believe the person’s internal and external environment is the sum of all the
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conditions and elements that make up their surroundings and influence their
development. An individual’s environment directly influences the level of wellness and
ability to reach full potential as a thinking, creative, productive person.
The faculty believe in a nursing framework for the planning of nursing care and use
Maslow’s hierarchy of basic needs as a framework that facilitates data collection for
planning holistic patient care.
The nursing process is used as the clinical problem-solving process to provide a scientific
approach to patient care. The faculty teach students that the roles of the Practical Nurse in
applying the nursing process, under the direction of a qualified health care professional,
include data collection, planning, implementation, and evaluation to provide safe,
effective nursing care for patients at all points on the health continuum, in all stages of
the life span, and in any of the health care delivery systems.
Teaching-Learning
The faculty view the teaching-learning process as a dynamic, logical interchange between
the learner and the educational environment. Learning involves the acquisition of
knowledge, skills, attitudes, values, and critical thinking and is evidenced by meaningful
use of these acquired factors in the care of patients. The faculty believe that individuals
learn in a variety of ways and that a diversity of resources should be available to meet
individual student learning needs. The faculty believe in instructor-guided and student
self-directed learning; thus, the primary roles of the instructor are those of teacher,
facilitator, evaluator, advisor, and resource person. The faculty is responsible for assisting
individual students to become knowledgeable, demonstrate competencies, and meet the
program outcomes needed for entry into beginning practical nursing practice.
Learning is enhanced when the learner’s knowledge level is identified to plan appropriate
teaching, when educational experiences are organized in a logical sequence that promotes
continuity, and when the individual student’s unique needs and strengths are considered.
The faculty value a learning environment which:
 Is supportive of learning
 Fosters healthy interdependence
 Is respectful of and concerned about students
 Empowers students in their present and life-long learning
The faculty value a caring environment for students which promotes flexible, accessible
educational experiences for a diverse student body. Adult learning principles are used in
all interactions with students providing self-directed, purposeful learning respectful of
knowledge and experience students bring to the educational environment. Adult learning
theory empowers learners with mentoring and guidance allowing both autonomy and
responsibility in learning experiences.
The nursing faculty acknowledge the core competencies of The Scope of Practice for
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Academic Nurse Educators (NLN, 2005) and aspire to incorporate the eight competencies
in their daily teaching activities. The faculty also acknowledge the importance of
evidence-based nursing education and strive to incorporate best practice into their
teaching.
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Mission of the College of DuPage Practical Nursing Program
In keeping with the mission of the College of DuPage (College of DuPage Catalog 20072009, p. 12), the mission of the College of DuPage (COD) Practical Nursing (PN)
Program serves the needs of the community. The COD Practical Nursing Program
supports excellence in learning and teaching, fosters an instructional climate that
welcomes innovation, is open to change, and targets continual improvement and
accountability. The COD Practical Nursing Program ensures diverse learning needs with
a comprehensive, dynamic curriculum and varied educational delivery systems. The COD
Practical Nursing program promotes critical thinking and academic honesty while
preparing students to qualify for and succeed in further educational endeavors and to
prosper in the work environment. The COD Practical Nursing Program broadens learning
opportunities for students by providing articulation from the Practical Nursing Program
into the Associate Degree Nursing Program.
The above mission is reflected in the college catalog description of the PN Program:
The Practical Nursing (PN) program at College of DuPage prepares students to function
under the direction of a licensed professional in a variety of health care settings. The
curriculum integrates classroom, campus laboratory, and clinical instruction to teach
concepts and skills which the Practical Nurse uses to contribute to the nursing care of
patients. Completion of the program provides the foundation for continued education and
career mobility in nursing. On successful completion of the Practical Nursing program,
the student is awarded a certificate and becomes eligible to take the National Council
Licensure Examination — Practical Nurse (NCLEX-PN).
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Purposes of the College of DuPage Practical Nursing Program
The purposes of the Practical Nursing Program at College of DuPage include the
following:
1. Provide a dynamic educational pathway in a college environment for entry into
practical nursing (PN) practice.
2. Continually evolve to reflect local community needs, and current and emerging health
care delivery systems.
3. Instill the importance of critical thinking, caring behaviors, and skillful therapeutic
nursing interventions when providing patient care in all areas of nursing practice to
promote, maintain, or restore health, and prevent illness for individuals and groups across
the life span.
4. Graduate a beginning practitioner who is competent at the entry level and provides
nursing care to a diverse patient population within a variety of health care settings.
5. Promote continual learning and advancement within the profession by encouraging
and facilitating articulation into the COD Associate Degree Nursing program.
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Program Outcomes
The following outcomes have been established for graduates for the COD Practical
Nursing Program. The competencies are adapted from those drafted by the National
Association for Practical Nurse Education and Service (NAPNES) (2006):
At the completion of an LPN program, the student will display the following
outcomes:
1. Professional Behaviors:
Program Outcome: Function as a competent Practical Nurse within a legal and ethical
framework to provide holistic care to patients from diverse backgrounds.
Competencies which demonstrate this outcome has been met:
1. Comply with the ethical, legal, and regulatory frameworks of nursing and the
scope of practice as outlined in the Illinois Nurse Practice Act.
2. Utilize educational opportunities for continued personal and professional growth.
3. Identify personal potential and consider career mobility options.
4. Identify personal strengths and weaknesses for the purpose of improving
performance and life long learning.
5. Demonstrate accountability for nursing care provided by self.
6. Function as an advocate for the health care consumer.
7. Identify the impact of economic, political, social, cultural, and demographic
forces on the role of the Practical Nurse in the delivery of health care.
8. Serve as a positive role model within health care settings and the community.
9. Participate as a member of a practical nursing organization.
2. Communication:
Program Outcome: Effectively communicate with patients, significant support
person(s), and members of the health care team incorporating interpersonal and
therapeutic communication skills.
Competencies which demonstrate this outcome has been met:
1. Utilize communication skills when interacting with patients, significant others,
and health care team members.
2. Communicate relevant, accurate, and complete information.
3. Report and document data collected, interventions, and progress toward patient
outcomes.
4. Maintain organizational and patient confidentiality.
5. Utilize information technology to support and communicate the planning and
provision of patient care.
6. Utilize appropriate channels of communication.
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3. Assessment:
Program Outcome: Holistically collect assessment data from multiple sources,
communicate data to appropriate health care providers, and evaluate patient response to
interventions.
Competencies which demonstrate this outcome has been met:
1. Collect data related to basic physical, developmental, spiritual, cultural,
functional, and psychosocial needs of the patient.
2. Collect data within established protocols and guidelines from various sources
including patient interviews, observations/measurements, health care team
members, family, significant others, and health records.
3. Document data collected.
4. Communicate findings to appropriate health care personnel.
5. Collect data to evaluate the patient’s response to interventions based on the
established patient plan of care.
6. Document findings of the evaluation data.
4. Planning:
Program Outcome: Work with members of the health care team to organize and
incorporate assessment data to plan/revise patient care based on established nursing
diagnoses, and assessment and evaluation data.
Competencies which demonstrate this outcome has been met:
1. Utilize knowledge of normal values to identify deviation in health status to plan
care.
2. Contribute to the development of nursing care plans utilizing established nursing
diagnosis for patients with common, well-defined health problems.
3. Prioritize planned nursing interventions.
4. Assist in the review and revision of nursing care plans to meet the changing needs
of patients.
5. Assist with modification of patient care as indicated by the evaluation of
outcomes.
5. Caring Interventions:
Program Outcome: Demonstrate a caring and empathetic approach to the individualized
care of each patient.
Competencies which demonstrate this outcome has been met:
1. Protect and promote the patient’s dignity.
2. Identify and honor the emotional, cultural, religious, and spiritual influences on the
patient’s health.
3. Demonstrate caring behavior towards the patient and significant support person(s).
4. Provide competent and safe nursing care in a variety of settings.
5. Provide a safe physical and psychosocial environment for the patient and
significant others.
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6. Implement the prescribed care regimen within the legal, ethical, and regulatory
framework of Practical Nursing practice.
7. Assist the patient and significant support person(s) to cope with and adapt to
stressful events and changes in health status.
8. Assist the patient and significant others to achieve optimum comfort and
functioning.
9. Instruct patient regarding individualized health needs in accordance with an
established teaching plan and keeping with the Practical Nurse’s knowledge level.
6. Managing:
Program Outcome: Implement patient care through skillful performance of therapeutic
nursing interventions, recognizing need for changes and collaborating with others to
change the plan of care.
Competencies which demonstrate this outcome has been met:
1. Assist in the coordination and implementation of an individualized plan of care
for patients and significant support person (s).
2. Assume responsibility for managing own actions when providing nursing care for
individuals and groups.
3. Assist the patient and significant support person (s) to access available resources
and services.
4. Implement nursing strategies to provide cost efficient care.
5. Demonstrate competence with current technologies.
6. Function in the role of the Practical Nurse in a variety of health care delivery
systems.
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Model of the Organizing Framework of the
College of DuPage Practical Nursing Program
Health Care Delivery Systems
Environment
Nursing
Person
Health
Explanation: Nursing incorporates knowledge about the environment, person, and health
to provide nursing care within one of the health care delivery systems.
Definition of Terms
Health Care Delivery System: The system in which the Practical Nurse provides
nursing care under the direction of qualified health care professionals. Types of systems
include acute care, long-term care, and community.
Person: Includes all human participants in the health care delivery system; i.e.,
individual, family, group, or community. The person is a unique holistic being with
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physical, emotional, intellectual, social, spiritual, and environmental needs. These needs,
which are common to all human beings regardless of culture, race, or gender, exist
throughout a person’s life span, and are influenced by levels of health and interaction
with the environment.
Health: Health is a dynamic state on a continuum ranging from optimal health or
wellness to health problems to death. Optimum health is a state of balance of the
physical, emotional, social, spiritual, environmental, and intellectual components of the
person. Health reflects the person’s ability to meet basic needs as well as adapt to internal
and external environmental changes to maintain equilibrium. When the person is unable
to cope or adapt, needs are unmet and deviations in equilibrium result in health problems
or death. Health varies with developmental stages and at times there is a greater risk for
disequilibrium in the person’s health. Therefore, knowledge of growth and development
is used in planning care.
Environment: All factors, internal and external, that interact with the person to affect
health. The components of the environment are physical, psychological, sociocultural,
cognitive, and spiritual.
Nursing: The COD Practical Nursing Program has adopted the NCSBN’s (2005, p. 8)
definition of nursing:
Nursing is both an art and a science. It is a learned profession based on an understanding of the
human condition across the life span and the relationships of an individual with others and within
the environment. The nature of nursing is continually evolving. Nursing practice is founded on a
professional body of knowledge that integrates concepts from the biological, behavioral, and
social sciences. The goal of nursing is to promote comfort and quality health care. The nurse
assists individuals throughout their life spans to attain optimal levels of functioning by responding
to the needs, conditions, and events that result from actual or potential health problems.
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The Concept of Nursing
Showing where Practical Nursing Fits into the Overall Health Care
Delivery System and Subsets of Concepts that are Incorporated in
Nursing
Health care Delivery Systems
Nursing:
Current Evidence-Based Practice of
Practical Nursing Based on
Professional Ethics, Values, &
Accountability
Holistic Nursing Care Using:
•Application of Knowledge to
Practice
•Caring
•Critical Thinking
•Effective Communication
•Competence in Performing
Therapeutic Nursing Interventions
The model indicates that the nurse functions within health care delivery systems. That
evidenced-based practice of nursing is enveloped in professional ethics, values, and
accountability. Holistic nursing care is delivered by applying knowledge to practice
incorporating caring, critical thinking, effective communication, and competence in
performing clinical skills. The items in the model incorporate the important attributes of
the entry-level Practical Nurse as determined by the National Council of State Boards of
Nursing (2006, p.151).
Evidence-Based Practice: The integration of the best possible research to evidence with
clinical expertise and with patient needs (Porter-O’Grady, 2006, p. 1).
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Practical Nursing: The COD Practical Nursing Program has adopted the NCSBN’s
(2005, p. 8) definition of the Practical Nurse:
The practical/vocational nurse uses “specialized knowledge and skills which meet the
health needs of people in a variety of settings under the direction of qualified health
professionals” (NFLPN, 2003). The practical/vocational nurse uses a clinical problemsolving process (the nursing process) to collect and organize relevant health care data,
assist in the identification of the health needs/problems throughout the patient’s life span
and contribute to the interdisciplinary team in a variety of settings. The entry-level
practical/vocational nurse demonstrates the essential competencies needed to care for
patients with commonly occurring health problems that have predictable outcomes.
“Competency implies knowledge, understanding, and skills that transcend specific tasks
and is guided by a commitment to ethical/legal principles” (NAPNES, 2003).
Holistic Nursing Care: Nursing care based on assessment of the total person with
consideration for diversity; nursing care that looks at the total patient and transcends
specific tasks; to understand, respect, and accept any differences and similarities of
patients.
Application of Knowledge to Practice: The mark of a knowledgeable nurse; one who
applies critical thinking using a solid knowledge base when invoking the nursing process.
Caring: A process that involves compassionate interactions with the behaviors that
provide meaning to nursing actions. Three aspects of caring are identified as “caring for”
(actions or treatments), “caring about”, and “caring with” persons in the health care
delivery system that is undertaken by nurses as care providers and collaborators to
facilitate the improvement or maintenance of health.
Critical Thinking: Critical thinking is contextual and faculty strive to teach critical
thinking in all learning environments. Critical thinking used in the COD Practical
Nursing Program draws upon the work of Alfaro-LeFevre (2006, p. 30):
Critical thinking in nursing:
 Entails purposeful, informed, outcome-focused (results-oriented) thinking that requires
careful identification of key problems, issues, and risks involved.
 Is driven by patient, family, and community needs.
 Is based on principles of nursing process and scientific methods (for example, using
intuition but making judgments based on evidence, rather than guesswork).
 Requires specific knowledge, skills, and experience.
 Requires strategies that make the most of human potential (for example, using individual
strengths) and compensate for problems created by human nature (for example, overcoming
the powerful influence of personal views).
 Is constantly re-evaluating, self-correcting, and striving to improve.
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Effective Communication: Interactions between the nurse and patient and among the
nurse and other health care providers that result in outcomes for safe, effective patient
care.
Therapeutic Nursing Interventions: Any treatment, based on clinical judgment and
knowledge that a nurse performs to enhance patient outcomes (Taylor, Lellis, & LeMone,
2005, p. 281).
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Admission to the Practical Nursing Program
Admission to the Practical Nursing Program is through the Health Sciences Admissions
Office. Information about the PN Program can be obtained by contacting the Health
Sciences Admissions Office or the Practical Nursing Coordinator.
To complete an application the applicant must provide the following to the College of
DuPage Admissions Office.
1. Application form
2. Payment of application fee
Admission into the Practical Nursing program requires the student to submit the
following:
1. Official high school transcripts or GED scores
2. Official transcripts from other colleges/universities attended
3. Review of foreign education transcripts by the World Education Services
4. Evidence of completion of the College of DuPage reading placement within the last 5
years test score of Category 1.
5. Evidence of completion of the College of DuPage math placement test within the last
5 years.
6. Evidence of completion of prerequisite courses (Anatomy and Physiology 1500 or
1551 AND 1552 or 1571 AND 1572 and Psychology 1100) within the last 5 years
with a “C” grade or better.
7. Proof of certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant within the last 5 years or proof
from employer of working as a CNA within 5 years prior to application.
8. Evidence of CPR certification.
Note: The above requirements are subject to change without notice.
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Procedures, Policies, and Requirements
Following Acceptance into the Nursing Program
The following must be completed after acceptance into the nursing program and prior to
beginning Nursing 1101:
1. Health assessment and physical examination must be completed and submitted to the
College Health Center prior to the first day of Nursing 1101. This examination and
necessary titers/vaccines are at the student’s expense. All health career programs at the
College of DuPage require a current history and physical examination to comply with
clinical agency requirements. The complete exam must include:
 TB test or Chest x-ray
 Rubella, Rubeola, Mumps, Varicella titers (if no immunity exists, student must
obtain appropriate vaccinations)
 Hepatitis B titers (Hepatitis B vaccine is strongly recommended, but not required)
Please note: The Health Center has included the following statement on their medical
history form:
I further understand that any false answer or statements made by me in this
application, or any supplement there to, will be grounds for immediate dismissal
from classes/program.
IMPORTANT: A statement from the physician must document the student’s health
status will allow him/her to safely pursue the educational objectives of the nursing
program at College of DuPage. Students are responsible for their own medical care and
health insurance.
Failure to complete the medical examination and vaccinations, and obtain written
clearance from the physician to participate in all program activities (no
restrictions/physical limitations), will result in ineligibility for admission into the
program.
2. Applicants with chronic medical problems must advise the program concerning their
current health status, medications, and medical needs. A written statement from the
applicant’s physician addressing the applicant’s ability to perform the following
activities: moving, lifting, and transferring patients without restriction. If an acute
condition arises while enrolled in the nursing program, a written statement must also be
obtained by the student from a physician stating the student’s ability to perform the
following activities: moving, lifting, and transferring patient without restriction. This
requirement also pertains to pregnancy. Students are responsible for their own medical
care.
3. Complete required immunizations or provide proof of immunity as specified.
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4. Complete mandatory drug testing at the College of DuPage Health Center. All
students enrolled in health career programs with direct patient contact must be drug tested
annually prior to a clinical experience. Any student with a positive drug screen will be
considered ineligible for the program. Admission or readmission to the Practical Nursing
Program after a positive drug test will require 3 negative screens after one year of
application. The test is at the student’s expense through the Health Center (IC 2001). You
may schedule an appointment at 630-942-2154.
4. Complete a course in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) as a C level (healthcare
provider) prior to entering the nursing program. Maintain certification throughout the
nursing program.
5. Purchase required nursing liability insurance provided by College of DuPage at the
time of registration.
6. Pay all required fees.
7. Criminal background check completed by the Illinois State Police since June, 2005.
Conviction for a felony will not prevent your admission to this program but may make it
difficult for you to obtain a license to practice. You may wish to clarify this situation with
the Program Coordinator before you apply. All applicants for the licensure exam
(NCLEX-PN) are required to have a criminal background check and finger printing.
Fees
In addition to the tuition and course fees, students enrolled in the Practical Nursing
Program are required to complete and/or obtain the following which may involve
additional costs:
 Physical examination with possible immunization
 TB testing
 CPR for the healthcare provider
 Malpractice insurance coverage
 Official student uniform
 Criminal background check
 Mandatory drug testing
Completion of these requirements is the sole responsibility of the student and is not
included in the specified tuition and fee amounts.
Financial Aid
Students are encouraged to investigate available resources that may assist them to meet
the financial obligations associated with the academic program. Information about
available financial aid programs and scholarships is available through the College of
DuPage Financial Aid office.
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Standard Skills Required for all Health Care Programs
To participate in any health career program at College of DuPage which has a direct
patient care or clinical education component, applicants must possess additional nonacademic skills. These occupational standards are consistent with the duties of the entrylevel professional in that field and are set by the individual program. These skills which
protect the health and well being of patients may include but are not limited to the ability
to:
1. Lift and carry thirty pounds of weight.
2. Lift and transfer patients to and from wheelchairs, stretchers, beds, and
examination tables.
3. Move, adjust, and manipulate equipment.
4. Position patients for exams.
5. Respond appropriately to sounds such as the patient’s voice and movements, at a
normal conversational volume.
6. Respond appropriately to equipment signals such as sound and light.
7. Manipulate the necessary hospital equipment for patient care such as dials,
switches, push buttons, and keyboards.
8. Perform for a prolonged period without breaks in a typical shift of 8 to 12 hours.
9. Communicate orally and in writing with patients, doctors, and other personnel
clearly and effectively.
10. Able to follow verbal and written directions.
Students who do not meet these standards may be considered ineligible for the Practical
Nursing Program and can be withdrawn from all program classes. If you are unsure
whether you can meet these requirements, you are advised to consult an advisor,
counselor, or member of the program faculty to discuss the situation, and/or schedule an
appointment with your physician, prior to making application or enrolling for classes.
If an acute condition arises while enrolled in the nursing program, a written statement
must be obtained by the student from the physician stating the student’s ability to perform
the following activities: moving, lifting, and transferring of patients without restriction.
The above requirements also apply to pregnancy.
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Curriculum Plan
The Practical Nursing Program is two and one-half semesters in length beginning with
the Spring semester, continuing into the 8-week summer semester, and culminating in the
Fall semester.
Prior to entering the PN program the student must earn a C grade or higher in Psychology
1100 (general psychology) and Anatomy and Physiology 1500 or both Anatomy and
Physiology 1551 and 1552 or 1571 and 1572. General psychology is a prerequisite for the
Psychology 2237 course taken during the program.
Anatomy and physiology presents the physiological basis on which nursing care is based,
and is necessary for students to address the physiological integrity of patient care.
Psychology 1100 is a survey of behavior and mental processes with emphasis on the
scientific nature of contemporary psychological investigation and Psychology 2237
addresses developmental psychology over the lifespan, important content that forms the
basis for understanding patients of all ages and the psychosocial integrity of patient care.
Other important content areas that form the foundation for the study of nursing include
nutrition, diet therapy, chemistry, microbiology, physics, communication, interpersonal
relationships, sociology, and cultural diversity. These topics are addressed when
appropriate throughout the nursing program courses.
The following table breaks down the nursing courses by semester. Both credit hour and
clock hours are given to help students plan their time. Students should be aware that the
table only indicates actual class time. Study time is not included and typically requires
from 10 to 15 hours a week. Students are advised to work no more than 20 hours a week
while in the nursing program to provide enough available time for study.
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PN Program: Courses and Hours
Course
Semester Hours
of Credit
Theory:
Credit Hours &
Clock Hours
Lab:
Credit Hours &
Clock Hours
Clinical:
Credit Hours &
Clock Hours
Credit: 3
Clock hours:
3 X 16 = 48
Credit: 4
Clock hours:
4 X 16 = 64
Credit: 2
Clock hours:
4 X 16 = 64
Credit: 4
Clock hours:
12 X 16 = 192
Credit: 3
Clock hours:
3 X 16 = 48
Credit: 1
Clock hours:
2 X16 = 32
Spring Semester: 17 credit hours (one 16-week session)
Psychology 2237
NURSP 1101:
PN Concepts &
Skills I
NURSP 1102:
Pharmacology
for the Practical
Nurse
3
10
4
Summer Semester: 5 credit hours (one 8-week session)
NURSP 1103:
PN Concepts &
Skills II **
5
Credit: 3
Clock hours:
6 X 8 weeks = 48
Credit: 2
Clock hours:
12 X 8 weeks =
96
Fall Semester: 15 credit hours (two 8-week session courses and one 16-week course)
NURSP 1104:
PN Concepts and
Skills III **
7
Credit: 4
Clock hours:
8 X 8 weeks = 64
NURSP 1105:
PN Role
Transition **
5
Credit: 2
Clock hours:
4 X 8 weeks = 32
NURSP 1106:
Issues and
Trends in
Practical Nursing
16-week course
Total Hours for
Nursing
Courses
3
Nursing hours:
34
Total hours:
37 total
Credit: 1
Clock hours:
4 X 8 weeks = 32
Credit: 2
Clock hours:
12 X 8 weeks =
96
Credit: 3
Clock hours:
18 X 8 weeks =
144
Credit: 4
Clock hours:
128
Credit: 11
Clock hours: 528
Credit: 3
3 X 16 = 48
Nursing Credit:
19
Nursing Clock
Hours: 304
Total Credit: 352
Total Clock
Hours: 352
** These courses will be taught in 8 week sessions.
Total program clock hours: 1,008
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25
Nursing Course Descriptions
Practical Nursing 1101: Practical Nursing Concepts and Skills I
10 credit hours (4 credit hours lecture; 2 credit hours lab; 4 credit hours clinical;)
Fundamental concepts and skills used by the Practical Nurse when caring for adult and
elderly patients with normal and common health problems requiring medical/surgical
interventions in a variety of health care settings. Application of the nursing process for
health promotion and maintenance, disease prevention, and supporting a dignified death.
Skills and techniques developed and demonstrated in nursing skills laboratory and
clinical setting. Includes the administration of medications and intravenous therapy in the
clinical setting.
Practical Nursing 1102: Pharmacology for the Practical Nurse
4 credit hours (3 credit hours lecture; 1 credit hour lab)
Concepts and skills related to the role of the Practical Nurse in the administration of
medications and intravenous therapy to patients across the life span. Includes content
about medications necessary for safe and effective patient care. Emphasis is placed on
special considerations for the geriatric patient.
Practical Nursing 1103: Practical Nursing Concepts and Skills II
5 credit hours (3 credit hours lecture; 2 credit hours clinical)
Concepts and skills required of the Practical Nurse when caring for adults and elderly
patients requiring mental health interventions and for the childbearing family and
children in a variety of health care settings. Application of the nursing process for health
promotion and maintenance, and disease prevention. Skills and techniques developed and
demonstrated in the clinical setting. Includes administration of medications and
intravenous therapy.
Practical Nursing 1104: Practical Nursing Concepts and Skills III
7 credit hours (4 hours lecture; 1 hour lab; 2 hours clinical)
Advanced concepts and skills involved in the role of the Practical Nurse when caring for
patients across the life span with normal and common health care problems in a variety of
health care settings. Skills and techniques developed and demonstrated in the nursing
skills laboratory and clinical setting. Includes the administration of medications and
intravenous therapy in the clinical setting.
Practical Nursing 1105: Practical Nurse Role Transition
5 credit hours (2 hours lecture; 3 hours clinical)
Integration of all concepts and skills taught in the previous nursing courses looking at
more complex patient situations and nursing care. Skills and techniques are perfected in
the clinical setting. Includes the administration of medications and intravenous therapy.
Issues related to transition from student to practicing nurse. Includes a review for
NCLEX and strategies for success.
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Practical Nursing 1106: Issues and Trends in Practical Nursing
3 credit hours (3 credit hours lecture)
Current nursing and health care issues and trends affecting Practical Nursing. Covers
ethics and legal aspects of Practical Nursing practice. Comprehensive review of the
Illinois Nurse Practice Act.
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Student Participation in Program Meetings and Evaluation
To facilitate sharing of information, student representatives from the nursing class will be
invited to participate in Practical Nursing faculty meetings and Practical Nursing
committees. Student representatives will be determined each semester by nomination and
an election of the majority in each class. During these meetings, students may express the
thoughts of their peers and offer possible suggestions for program improvement.
Additional meetings with student groups may be scheduled during the year as necessary.
Students are also encouraged to participate in the evaluation of the program by
completing course evaluations at the end of each course and program evaluation at the
completion of the program. This input assists the faculty in the review and revision of
couple implementation.
Students are also invited to evaluate faculty as per the contractual agreement between the
Board of Trustees of College of DuPage and College of DuPage Faculty
Association/NEA.
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28
Course Information and Policies
General Information for all Learning Environments
Students enrolling in clinical nursing courses need to have the following to register:






CPR certification for the health care provider
Evidence of current malpractice insurance
Physical examination and evidence of related immunizations
Criminal history background check
Drug testing
Satisfactory completion of prerequisite semester course work and a GPA of 2.5 or
higher
Compliance with Rules, Regulations, Policies, and Procedures
Students are expected to comply with rules, regulations, policies, and procedures of
College of DuPage and affiliated clinical agencies. Noncompliance with rules,
regulations, policies, and procedures is basis for student dismissal from the Practical
Nursing Program.
Attendance
Attendance is required in all scheduled sessions. Consistent absences could result in
dismissal from the program. In case of unavoidable absence, your instructor(s) must be
notified prior to the class. For missed clinical experiences, check the method of
notification with your clinical instructor.
Student Code of Conduct
College of DuPage Student Code of Conduct, Board Policy 5715 states “Conduct which
interferes with college purposes is not acceptable, yet a member of the college
community can rightfully expect that the college will exercise with restraint its power to
regulate student behavior and that rules and regulations will be adopted only when the
educational process clearly and directly requires such legislation. Students are
accountable for their own conduct. Sanctions for violations of College rules and
regulations for conduct which interfere with College affairs will be addressed by the
College. Student conduct which involves an alleged violation of criminal law will be
referred to appropriate civil authorities.” For the complete text on Board Policy 5715, see
College of DuPage Catalog (2007-2009), page 51-52.
Conduct that is subject to disciplinary action includes, but is not limited to:
1. Lack of academic integrity: academic honesty and integrity is expected at all times.
Evidence of cheating, plagiarism, or falsification of documentation is cause for loss of
grades and/or dismissal.
2. The possession, use, and distribution of alcohol or drugs of abuse are prohibited.
3. Breach of confidentiality.
4. The possession, use, or threat to use weapons.
5. Sexual abuse, harassment, or misconduct.
6. Verbal or physical abuse or threats.
Student Handbook, Linda Caputi, Revised 10/29/07
29
7. Inappropriate use of language.
8. Vandalism or theft of College or agency property, or the property of others.
9. Demonstrate communication or behavior that is inconsistent with safe, professional
practice.
10. Failure to adhere to posted signs, such as no smoking or no parking.
Smoking Policy
The college maintains a smoke-free environment on all campuses. Smoking is only
permitted in designated areas. In addition, smoking is not permitted at any of the clinical
sites.
Syllabi
Students will receive a syllabus for each nursing course. Each syllabus includes course
learning outcomes, reading assignments, and evaluation methods. Students should read
the course information carefully and contact the instructor for clarification of any
questions. The student must succeed in all area (lab, theory, and clinical) of the course to
earn a passing grade. A passing grade is defined as a 78% with a passing level in
laboratory skill performance and clinical performance in courses where each of those
components are part of the course. Students are responsible for keeping track of their
academic standing in nursing courses. Faculty will assist students if students have
questions regarding their grades. Students are encouraged to meet with faculty often to
determine their status. Students are expected to use available resources such as the
computer laboratory, nursing skills laboratory, and the library to promote success in
nursing courses.
Progression Requirements
For a student to begin the next course in the sequence of nursing courses, the student is
required to:
1. Be considered in good standing by the College.
2. Satisfactorily complete all prerequisites for the course.
3. Have earned a grade of “C” or higher in all nursing courses.
4. Have earned a grade of “C” or higher in Psychology 2237.
5. Meet all course requirements as stated in the course syllabus.
6. Complete clinical objectives and criteria, and receive a satisfactory evaluation in the
clinical component.
A student must earn a grade of “C” (78%) or better in each nursing course to progress to
the next course and to complete the program and receive the Practical Nursing
Certificate.
Student Work
Student work (exams, papers, etc.) are kept for one semester following the student’s
completion of a course.
Privacy of Student Work and Records
The Practical Nursing Program adheres to guidelines that are established by the college in
relation to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Student records
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30
pertinent to enrollment in the Practical Nursing Program, such as clinical evaluations,
student exams, and correspondence, are kept secured in individual files. These files are
subject to the same access policies as all other student records. Please refer to the College
of DuPage Catalog (207-2009), page 53, for the complete college policy.
Written Assignments
Written assignments will be made during each course. These assignments will be part of
the theory grade and/or clinical evaluation. Grammar, spelling, sentence construction,
neatness, and legibility will constitute a part of the grade. All assignments, unless
otherwise specified, are to be typed, double-spaced, and presented in a neat and organized
manner. It is expected that students seek out and use appropriate resources for completion
of assignments.
Unless otherwise instructed, all written assignments must be submitted on or before the
date they are due. This includes clinical paperwork assignments. One point per day will
be deducted for late submission of any written assignment. Failure to hand in a written
assignment will result in a failing grade for the course regardless of theory grade.
If the instructor suspects that submitted written work is not the original work of the
student, the student will receive “0” points for the written assignment.
Plagiarism
The Course-Related Academic Integrity, Board Policy 5050, states “Academic
dishonesty is prohibited. An act of academic dishonesty will be met with the appropriate
disciplinary action.” Board Policy 5050 states in part: “Plagiarism occurs when a student
uses language or ideas from materials without acknowledgment and/or when the work is
copied from other sources and is submitted as the student’s own. Examples of plagiarism
include, but are not limited to: Copying a phrase, a sentence, or a longer passage from a
source and submitting it as one’s own. Summarizing or paraphrasing someone else’s
ideas without acknowledging the source. Submitting group assignments individually as
one’s own independent work.” For the complete text on Board Policy 5050, see College
of DuPage Catalog (2007-2009), page 52.
Class Cancellation for Inclement Weather
In the event of inclement weather, the College may be closed. Students should be alert for
television and radio announcements (see page 50 of the College of DuPage Catalog
[2007-2009] for a listing). College closings are also announced on the college website at
www.cod.edu. If the college is closed, there will not be any nursing classes or clinical
experiences during that time. Students may provide their phone numbers so they may be
notified by the faculty if a class or clinical experience is cancelled.
Illness or Injury
The student’s ability to participate safely in classroom and clinical activities is essential
for continuation in, or return to, the Practical Nursing Program. Students with a
significant change in their health status during a nursing course due to injury, illness,
pregnancy, childbirth, or other circumstances are to submit health clearance signed by
Student Handbook, Linda Caputi, Revised 10/29/07
31
their personal health care provider before returning to the classroom or clinical
experience. The health clearance must indicate that it is safe for the student to participate
in all course activities. The health clearance is submitted to the nursing faculty member(s)
and the coordinator of the program. Students are responsible for all health costs incurred
while participating in the Practical Nursing Program. Students are strongly encouraged to
obtain personal medical insurance coverage.
Cell Phones and Pagers
All cell phones and pagers must be turned off or set to vibrate during class time. It is not
acceptable for a student to leave class to answer a call unless prior arrangements are
made regarding an emergency situation. Calls from work are not considered an
emergency situation. Return calls must be made at break or after class is over. Cell
phones and pagers are allowed in the clinical setting per faculty discretion and clinical
site policy.
Children in Class
Children are not permitted in the classroom/lab.
Student Assistance
Students encountering academic difficulties should speak with the course faculty for
assistance. Students experiencing personal problems should contact the Counseling
Office for assistance.
Students with Disabilities
Students with disabilities are mainstreamed at College of DuPage. Support services are
available for any student with documented learning and/or physical/medical disability.
The Office of Special Student Services IC 2125A (630) 942-2154 provides note taking
paper, tape recorders, alternate testing, adaptive equipment, sign language interpreters,
textbooks on tape and other auxiliary services. Tutoring is available through the
Academic Support Center. For the complete text on Health and Special Services, see
College of DuPage Catalog (2007-2009), page 45.
Student Handbook, Linda Caputi, Revised 10/29/07
32
Theory Classroom
Students are encouraged to complete the assigned readings and study guide assignments
prior to attending class. After attending class, students are encouraged to contact the
teacher to clarify any questions about the content read in the book or presented in the
class.
Recording Class Sessions
Recording any lecture or lab session requires the permission of the instructor. Students
must obtain permission from each individual instructor prior to recording.
Grading Scale
Percentage
Grade
100 – 90
A
89 – 84
B
83 – 78
C
77 – 70
D
69 & below
F
The numeric value of exams and final course grades will not be rounded.
Absences
Students are accountable for all information that is presented in class and outside
resources (computer assisted learning, text and journal readings, etc.). Students who miss
a scheduled class are responsible to obtain notes, handouts, and any other pertinent
information provided during class time.
Tests
Students are expected to bring sharp #2 pencils and clean erasers to the test. The
proctoring faculty reserves the right to seat students for the test. A student who arrives
late may be given the exam or may be required to take the exam at a later time. If the
exam is given to a student who arrives late, additional time will not be provided. Two
points per day after the original test day/time will be deducted from the student’s test
score. Students may not use cell phones during a test. All cell phones must be packed in
the student’s backpack, book bag, or purse, or on the floor under the desk.
Test Remediation Policy
Students who earn below an 80% on any given test must meet with the faculty to review
the test and complete a Test Analysis form.
Absence on Test Day
Students are expected to take exams on the dates they are scheduled. For arrangements
for testing outside the regularly scheduled class time, contact the instructor. No exam
may be taken later than one week from the original test time. A grade of zero (0) will
then be recorded for that exam. The make-up exam can vary from the original test.
Unusual circumstances, including repeated absences for tests, will be addressed by the
Student Handbook, Linda Caputi, Revised 10/29/07
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faculty.
Cheating
If an instructor observes a student’s behavior and suspects the student of cheating while
taking a test, the student will receive a “0” score for that test.
Scan Sheet
All eraser marks on the scantron sheets are the responsibility of the student.
The official source of a test score is the optical scan sheet that is processed through the
computer. No changes may be made on this scan sheet after it is submitted to the faculty
member proctoring the test. Students may compare their test booklets with the computer
scan sheet during the week immediately following the return of the computer printout. To
review their test booklet, students need to make an appointment with the faculty member
responsible for the test. Any test concerns, i.e. accuracy of your score, inaccurate
scanning of your opscan, etc. must be handled within one week after computer printouts
are returned to students. After one week, the test score stands as recorded.
Student Handbook, Linda Caputi, Revised 10/29/07
34
Nursing Laboratory
Utilization of the Nursing Laboratory
Students are encouraged to use the nursing laboratory to practice skills taught in lab prior
to performing those skills in clinical or during a skill return demonstration. Laboratory
hours will be posted each semester.
On occasion, while practicing skills, students are found to have areas of concern, such as
an elevated blood pressure. These students will be referred to their personal heath care
providers for follow-up.
Nursing Lab Safety Guidelines
Students should always be oriented to the proper use of lab equipment (example: controls
on electronic beds, side rails, wheelchairs, suction machines) prior to their use. With new
equipment always wait for instructions from the faculty before handling. Any time a
student is unsure how to operate a piece of equipment, the student must always ask the
faculty before using the equipment. Faculty should be consulted prior to accessing lab
equipment. Students should not open cupboards/drawers without permission. Students are
required to always check with the lab staff before using the laboratory facility. When
practicing with needles and syringes, no equipment is to leave the lab area. Students
should take great care during practice to protect themselves from needle punctures.
Should a needle stick occur, it must be immediately reported to the faculty. Used needles
should be immediately discarded in the appropriate container.
At the end of a practice session in the lab, students should dispose of waste material
appropriately and leave the workspace clean, orderly, and clear of debris.
Students should be oriented to where the fire extinguishers are located and the evacuation
route from the lab in case of fire or disaster. All students must leave the building when
the fire alarm is sounded.
Skill Return Demonstration
Students will be provided with opportunities to successfully return demonstrate critical
skills. Students must pass the return demonstrations using criteria established by the
Practical Nursing faculty.
If students miss a scheduled return demonstration appointment, the student must contact
the nursing lab assistant prior to the scheduled time to cancel the appointment. Failure to
contact the lab assistant will be considered a failure of the demonstration of that skill.
Skill Return Performance
If the student passes the skill return performance on the first attempt, one point will be
added to the student’s overall points for the course. If a student fails to pass the skill
return, the student must talk with the lab assistant and schedule time for
remediation/practice of the skill prior to a second attempt. If the student fails the second
Student Handbook, Linda Caputi, Revised 10/29/07
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attempt, the student must talk with the lab assistant and schedule time for
remediation/practice of the skill prior to a third attempt. If the student fails the third
attempt, the student must withdraw from the course or receive a failing grade for the
course.
Skill Return Demonstration Deadline
Skill return demonstration deadlines will be announced in class.
Student Handbook, Linda Caputi, Revised 10/29/07
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Clinical Laboratory
Clinical sites are selected based on the nursing course objectives and the types of
experiences that are available. Students are expected to arrange for their own
transportation to affiliating agencies. Sufficient time should be allowed between the
beginning or end of the clinical time and any other academic or personal obligations.
When possible, students will not be assigned to a clinical agency or unit at which they are
employed. To obtain the best possible clinical experiences, there may be rotations in the
afternoon or evening hours. Students will be notified of any time changes as far in
advance as possible.
Confidentiality
All aspects of HIPAA will be strictly enforced. All information that is obtained during
patient interactions is considered to be confidential. Important information regarding
patients may be shared with agency staff members, instructors, and peers in an
appropriate manner and setting. Students are not to disclose information to other
individuals who are not directly involved in the patient’s care. Students are not to
photocopy or remove any patient records. When completing written assignments
following clinical experiences, the patient’s name is not to be written on any document.
Only the patient’s initials or room number may be used.
Infection Control Policy
While participating in clinical experiences, students need to be aware of Standard
Precautions and Transmission Specific Precautions (droplet, airborne, contact). All
equipment, linens, utensils, dressing, etc. that come in contact with a patient’s body fluids
are considered contaminated and need to be handled accordingly. The following are some
basic guidelines to follow:
1. Wash hands before and after patient care.
2. Use barrier protection (eyewear, masks, gloves, gowns) when indicated.
3. Dispose of equipment and other materials appropriately (such as in a sharps
containers or designed hampers).
4. Report the presence of open lesions or infections to the instructor.
Dosage Calculation Test
Students must pass a dosage calculation test at 80% for Nursing 1101 and at 100% for
each subsequent clinical nursing course by a date established by the faculty. Failure to
obtain these scores results in failure of the course. Calculators may be used but no
calculators with memory or cell phone calculators are allowed.
Meeting Clinical Objectives
Students must pass all the clinical objectives to pass the course. Students must
demonstrate consistently safe and professional performance throughout the clinical
experience. Satisfactory clinical performance is achieved by:
1. Preparing for patient care experiences by reviewing references and practicing
nursing skills.
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2. Correctly collecting data, recording, and reporting the patient’s status
3. Implementing appropriate nursing interventions and evaluating the patient’s
response.
4. Maintaining patient safety, comfort, dignity, privacy, and confidentiality.
5. Demonstrating professional behavior with patients, peers, instructors, and staff
members.
6. Participating in scheduled clinical experiences.
7. Completing all required written work.
Clinical evaluation conferences are held to review progress toward, and achievement of,
the clinical objectives. Students may be referred to the Nursing Skills Laboratory for
remediation of specified nursing skills when needed.
Any alteration of physical and/or emotional status of a student that would negatively
impact the student’s ability to perform safely in the clinical setting will be determined by
the individual clinical instructor. Conditions for the student’s return to the clinical setting
will be determined by the student’s clinical instructor.
Dress Code
The dress code is directed at an appropriate appearance, patient safety, and comfort.
Students who observe specific religious or cultural practices may consult with the
coordinator and faculty to determine how the uniform policy may be maintained. The
following must be observed:
1. Uniforms may be worn from home to the hospital and from the hospital to home. At
no time may the school uniform be worn in any other place.
2. Jewelry may not be worn with the uniform, except a wedding band and a single small
ear post in each ear. No dangling earrings, dangling necklaces, and bracelets; these
present a hazard to both the student and patient.
3. Body piercing (other than a single small ear post in each ear) must be removed.
Tattoos must be covered.
4. Hair must be neat and above the collar. Hair, if pulled up, must be held in place by a
neutral tie, band, or clip. Facial hair on male students must be short-clipped and wellgroomed. Makeup must be conservatively used.
5. Only those garments deemed to be the official student uniform may be worn to
clinical session.
6. Complete uniform includes: clean white nursing shoes, (if tennis shoes are used they
must be all white with no stripes or color; shoestrings must be white and clean), white
socks, name pin, bandage scissors, and a watch with a second hand. Socks must be
visible; no ankle/sport socks allowed.
7. Nails should be at a length and condition that will not be injurious to patients. No
artificial nails or extensions allowed. Only pale or clear nail polish can be used and the
polish cannot be chipped.
8. Student identification name pin must be worn at all clinical events.
9. No gum chewing is permitted in the clinical setting.
10. No perfume/cologne may be worn in the clinical setting.
11. No clogs or sandals are allowed.
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12. Faculty has the right to dismiss students from the clinical setting if dress code
violations occur. Adherence to the dress code policy is a part of the student clinical
evaluation.
Illness
Students who become ill or injured in a clinical area should report to the instructor as
soon as possible. If available, students may be seen in the emergency department of the
agency, or referred to their personal healthcare provider. Students are responsible for all
costs incurred for treatment. Where there is no on-site emergency department, such as in
a long term care facility, the community emergency system will be activated when
appropriate. The student will, again, be responsible for the cost of emergency and followup care. Students who are not able to leave the clinical site independently may require
transportation from significant others for follow-up at a medical facility.
Following a major illness or injury, health clearance must be obtained from the student’s
personal health care provider before returning to the classroom or clinical experience.
The health clearance must indicate that it is safe for the student to participate in all course
activities. The health clearance is submitted to the nursing faculty member and the
coordinator of the program.
Clinical Absences
Students are required to attend all clinical sessions. Missed clinical is defined as a clinical
absence due to illness or personal reasons. Clinical absences shall not exceed 3 absences
in a 16 week course and 2 absences in an 8 week course. Emergency circumstances will
be individually evaluated by the instructor.
If a student exceeds the maximum number of clinical absences, the student must
withdraw from the program or accept a failing grade (F) for the course. Three (3) tardies
to clinical will constitute a missed clinical day. The need for clinical make-up
assignments will be determined by the clinical instructor providing the student is meeting
all clinical objectives. The type of clinical make-up will be determined by the clinical
instructor. Although absences are allowed, if the student is absent and unable to
demonstrate satisfactory completion of clinical objectives, the student is at risk for failing
the course.
In an emergency, course faculty will consider the individual circumstances. Students may
receive a Clinical Contract for accountability for repeated absences, absences without
notification, and/or lateness. A clinical failure may be received if there is consistent
lateness or absenteeism. Students failing to notify the instructor of an absence on more
than one occasion will receive a clinical failure.
In the event of an absence from the clinical experience, the student must:
1. Call the clinical unit/affiliating agency to which he/she is assigned at least ½ hour
prior to the assigned rotation.
2. Properly identify himself/herself as a nursing student.
3. State the hour he/she was to be expected on the unit.
Student Handbook, Linda Caputi, Revised 10/29/07
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4. Ask to speak with the nursing instructor assigned to the unit.
5. Obtain the name of the individual taking the message if the instructor is not available.
Students who are absent for a formal orientation conducted by the affiliating agency may
need to withdraw from the course if the information that is provided is not able to be
reproduced at another time.
Clinical Evaluation
Each student will complete a self-evaluation assessing clinical performance at midcourse
and at the end of the course. Both instructor and student will use the clinical evaluation
tool established for each course.
Satisfactory Performance in the Clinical Area
A student must be satisfactory in the clinical area to earn a passing grade in the course.
To be satisfactory, the student must be prepared for clinical, meet the criteria established
for satisfactory clinical performance, and perform within the realm of safe nursing
practice.
1. Any student not prepared to meet the clinical objectives as determined by his/her
instructor may be dismissed from the clinical area and sent to the college lab to practice.
2. Any alteration of physical and/or emotional status of a student that would negatively
impact the student’s ability to perform safely in the clinical setting will be determined by
the student’s clinical instructor.
3. Unsatisfactorily behavior in the clinical may consist of but not be restricted to the
following. If the student is:
a. Consistently late.
b. Absent, and time is not made up.
c. Noncompliant with uniform requirements.
d. Not prepared to meet the clinical objectives for that day.
e. Inappropriate in applying safety measures.
f. Consistently inappropriate in decision making.
g. Not compliant in assignment completion.
h. Inappropriate in communication with patients, their family, and staff.
A student whose performance is evaluated as being unable to meet the objectives of the
course will be considered unsatisfactory. A student who has been evaluated as
UNSATISFACTORY may not continue in the clinical/classroom. The instructor will
recommend that the student withdraw prior to the end of the course. If the student
chooses to ignore the recommendation, a grade of “F” will be given for the course.
Unsafe Behavior
Unsafe behavior is defined as any behavior that endangers the physical safety or mental
well-being of a patient. A student demonstrating unsafe behavior may be asked to leave
the clinical setting at any time and is subject to dismissal from the nursing program. A
student whose behavior(s), skill and or knowledge base is evaluated to compromise the
safety of the patient(s), will be evaluated to be unsafe. The student may withdraw or
Student Handbook, Linda Caputi, Revised 10/29/07
40
receive an “F” in the course. A student who has been evaluated as being UNSAFE may
not continue in the clinical/classroom. The student who receives an “unsafe” clinical
evaluation will NOT be readmitted the program.
Skill Remediation
A student found deficient in skill performance in the clinical setting will be referred to
the nursing lab for remediation under supervision. A student will not be allowed to
perform the identified skill in clinical until it has been demonstrated satisfactorily in the
nursing laboratory. The student will be allowed two opportunities to successfully
demonstrate skill competency.
The student must come to the college lab within the time frame identified by the clinical
instructor. Failure to comply with the above will result in a failure to complete course
objectives and an unsatisfactory clinical grade.
Procedure for Skill Remediation
1. The clinical instructor fills out the information on the form (provided by the faculty)
and gives a copy to the student. The clinical instructor includes on the form the
designated time for completion.
2. The student must come to the lab on or before the designated time for completion.
3. The student must review appropriate readings and audiovisual materials, and practice
the skill(s) prior to the appointment time.
4. The student brings this form to the college lab at his/her scheduled time.
5. The laboratory assistant will observe the student’s demonstration of the skill(s) based
on established criteria.
6. Upon completion of the demonstration, the faculty provides written feedback on the
form to the clinical instructor and signs the form.
7. The student is then responsible for returning the form to the clinical instructor.
8. The clinical instructor determines whether the student has successfully completed the
demonstration of the skill(s) based on the lab faculty’s comments and signs the form.
9. The clinical instructor attaches the skill remediation form to the student’s clinical
evaluation.
Clinical Contracts
Clinical contracts for unsatisfactory clinical performance or behavior may be issued at
any time within a course. Contracts are written to alert the student of unsatisfactory
clinical progress. Students who receive a clinical contract must follow the
recommendations outlined in the contract. Such recommendations may include attending
the nursing skills laboratory to improve clinical techniques. The procedure for clinical
contracts and failures is as follows:
1. A copy of the clinical contract is provided at the time the student is informed of the
specific problem or deficiency. The student and faculty member sign the form,
indicating it has been reviewed. A witness may be obtained by the faculty member if
the student refuses to sign the form.
2. The student is responsible for reviewing the information contained in the clinical
warning notice and for taking action to improve his/her clinical performance to meet
Student Handbook, Linda Caputi, Revised 10/29/07
41
the clinical objectives of the course.
Clinical Failures
Clinical failures may be for unsatisfactory or unsafe performance. Students deemed
unsatisfactory and fail the course may seek readmission to the program. Students deemed
unsafe may not seek readmission to the program. Students seeking readmission must
adhere to the Readmission Policy outlined in this handbook.
1. A clinical failure may be given to a student at any time during the course if he/she is
demonstrating unsafe behavior or misconduct.
2. Students receiving a clinical failure will receive a failure (“F” grade) in the nursing
course and will result in dismissal from the Practical Nursing Program.
3. Students who are eligible to return to the nursing program where a clinical failure
was received may be required to seek remediation in the Nursing Skills Laboratory.
Appointments may be made with the faculty for practice and demonstration of skills
appropriate to the course level.
Student Handbook, Linda Caputi, Revised 10/29/07
42
College of DuPage Health Science Programs
Policy for Professional Conduct at Clinical Sites
Socialization of students to appropriate professional conduct is a significant component
of the Health Science Programs of College of DuPage (the “Programs”). Students in the
Programs are expected and required to be reliable and competent, exercise sound
judgment, act with a high degree of personal integrity, represent College of DuPage (the
“College”) in a respectful manner, and observe all the rules and regulations of the clinical
sites to which they are assigned. Students also have a responsibility to protect the welfare
and safety of the patients for whom care is being provided.
In accordance with these expectations, when assigned to clinical sites, students in the
Programs must adhere to the following Policy for Professional Conduct. This Policy is in
addition to the Student Code of Conduct outlined in College catalogs and/or policy. The
Policy for Professional Conduct includes, but is not limited to,
1.
Providing competent and reliable services to patients using sound judgment and
discretion. Students are expected to:
 be on time
 refrain from excessive absenteeism
 remain in assigned work areas, leaving only with permission
 not leave patients unattended
2.
Demonstrating respect and courtesy to patients and their families
3.
Demonstrating respect and courtesy to instructors, supervisors and all other
members of the health care/provider team at the site
4.
Cooperating with faculty, staff and peers without insubordination
5.
Providing care and/or services on a non-discriminatory basis
6.
Performing only procedures and/or services authorized by supervisor(s) in
accordance with accepted professional standards
7.
Observing the rules and regulations of all clinical facilities including
 Proper use of equipment and other property
 Not removing property of clinical facilities
 Not distributing, possessing illegal drugs or controlled substances,
 Not possessing or being under the influence of alcohol, and
 Complying with drug testing requirements*
8.
Maintaining the confidentiality of patient information in accordance with
recognized professional and institutional rules; without unauthorized release
and/or misuse of patient information or institutional data
9.
Maintaining proper dress, appearance, hygiene and decorum in accordance with
the standards set by the program, clinical site, and professions
10.
Complying with the ethical and professional standards set by the profession and
the Programs including:
 Never taking prescription blanks or writing prescriptions
 Never falsifying documents regarding student performance or the care of patients
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43
The penalty for violating the Policy for Professional Conduct will be discipline up to
and including dismissal from the Programs. Due to the sequential design of the
curriculum in most Health Science programs, any period of suspension or dismissal may
result in a delay in program completion.
If the disciplinary action is suspension or dismissal from one of the Programs, the student
may appeal that disciplinary action to the Health Sciences Professional Conduct Review
Board within 10 days of the discipline imposed. This appeal must be in writing using the
Request for Professional Conduct Review forms available in the Health Sciences
Division Office. The form must be submitted to the Associate Dean for Health Sciences.
The student will not be permitted to participate in the Programs during the appeal
process. The appeal will result in a hearing before the Health Sciences Professional
Conduct Review Board, comprised of faculty from other COD health science programs,
within 30 days of the date the appeal is filed with the Associate Dean. Both the student
and faculty involved in the disciplinary action may make an oral presentation to the
Board in addition to written comments. There is no further appeal; the decision of the
Board is final. If the decision to dismiss or suspend a student from a Program is upheld,
no refund of tuition or fees or for equipment or books will be provided.
*Students are advised that College of DuPage began drug testing of Health Science
students in all programs with direct patient contact starting the fall of 2003. College of
DuPage Health Services will perform this drug testing at the students’ expense. Drug
testing will precede clinical experience in all cases and will be required prior to
admission in some programs. Positive results on a drug screen or misrepresentation
regarding drug use will lead to immediate dismissal from the Programs.
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44
Learning Resources
Library
The Library is located on the main campus in Glen Ellyn. Debra Kakuk, MA, MLIS,
Associate Professor, is the librarian assigned to nursing.
The Library is open every day of the academic year at the following times:
Monday through Thursday
7:45 AM to 10:00 PM
Friday
7:45 AM to 4:30 PM
Saturday
11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Sunday
12:00 (noon) to 6:00 PM
The Library is open for shorter periods of time during vacations and is closed on
holidays. Current break hours and holiday closings are listed at
http://www.cod.edu/library/services/currentquarter.htm.
Nursing students and faculty may access an online Nursing Research Guide located at
http://www.cod.edu/library/libweb/Kakuk/gdnursing.htm that includes: catalog links,
reference materials in the COD collection, Internet sites (including associations,
organizations, consumer/general information, and reference sites), and APA citation
information. Students are also encouraged to use the Consumer Health Resource
Guide (including both professional and consumer level information) at:
http://www.cod.edu/library/libweb/Kakuk/consumer_health.htm
Materials Available:
The library houses materials on all major subject areas in a variety of formats to meet the
informational, cultural, and recreational needs of the college community. Its collection
consists of over 218,500 volumes, 800 current periodical subscriptions, access to 90
online article databases, and 1,484 electronic books. There are over 25,000 videos (VHS
and DVD formats) in the collection as well as 15,000 musical recordings, and a widevariety of audiotapes, CD-ROMs, anatomical models and specimens, slides, etc.
Library holdings in nursing and related disciplines provide a broad range of materials that
are relevant to the curriculum. Materials include books, audiotapes, slides, CD-ROMs,
DVDs, VHS tapes, anatomical models, and reserve materials (designated by clinical and
didactic nursing faculty). The medical-related section of the Library collection houses
over 14,000 unique items and Nursing students have access to eleven health and science
related databases such as the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature
(CINAHL), InfoTrak’s Health Reference Center-Academic, HealthSource: Academic and
Consumer (from EBSCO), and MEDLINE. Online, full text access is also available to
numerous journal articles which expands the library’s periodical holdings for students
and faculty. Nursing students have print or electronic access to over 220 nursing journals
and magazines. Using their library cards, nursing students can Interlibrary Loan (ILL)
books and journal articles that are not owned by the COD Library (a free service). For a
listing of on-line and print journal holdings especially pertinent to the Practical Nursing
Program, see
Student Handbook, Linda Caputi, Revised 10/29/07
45
http://sc9jf5ze6e.search.serialssolutions.com/?V=1.0&L=SC9JF5ZE6E&N=100&S=SC
&C=HE0059.
Computer Programs
Computer programs assigned in courses are available to nursing students in the Nursing
Computer Lab and at the Academic Computing Center.
When the Nursing Computer Lab is closed, students have access to the Academic
Computer Center on the 3rd floor of the Student Resource Center (SRC 3600) on the main
campus in Glen Ellyn. All software programs for nursing are available in the Academic
Computing Center. The Academic Computing Center hours are as follows:
Monday through Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Student Handbook, Linda Caputi, Revised 10/29/07
7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
46
Student Concerns
Students have the right to express their concerns regarding academic and nonacademic
issues. These issues may include, but are not limited to, course activities, discrimination,
disruptive classroom behaviors, harassment, or intimidation. Students should observe the
following:
1. Students are to convey their expressed concerns directly to the appropriate faculty
member.
2. If students do not perceive resolution of the issue they should contact the
Associate Dean of Health Sciences.
3. If the concern is about a grade issue, the student is referred to page 54 of the
College of DuPage Catalog (2007-2009) for the Grievance Policy.
4. In the event concerns are not perceived to have been resolved through this
process, students may address complaints about the program to the Board of
Nursing, 320 Washington Street, 3rd floor, Springfield, IL 62786 (217) 785-0800.
Student Handbook, Linda Caputi, Revised 10/29/07
47
Procedure for Withdrawal from the Practical Nursing Program
The following guidelines are used to assist any student who wishes to withdraw from or
not continue in the Practical Nursing Program at College of DuPage.
1. Students who have begun the program and wish to withdraw during the semester:
Students are encouraged to consult directly with the instructor when considering a course
withdrawal. Please refer to the College of DuPage Catalog (2007-2009), pages 33 and 66.
2. Instructor Responsibility.
Students who are in danger of failing academically or clinically must be apprised of this
possibility in writing before the end of the automatic withdrawal ("W") time. Mid-course
clinical evaluations and conferences are used to provide discussion about the student’s
academic status; however, a conference between student and faculty can be initiated at
any time by either party.
3. Appeal Procedure
Every student has the right to appeal grades and evaluations. Please refer to the Student
Appeal Procedures in the College of DuPage Catalog (2007-2009), page 54.
Student Handbook, Linda Caputi, Revised 10/29/07
48
Readmission Policy
Readmission to the nursing program is granted on a space available basis. A student who
withdraws passing (grade of C or higher in a course at the time of withdrawal) may be
granted two readmissions on a space available basis. The readmission must occur within
two calendar years of the withdrawal. A student who withdraws failing (grade below C at
the time of withdrawal) or finishes the course and earns a grade below a “C” in a nursing
course may be granted one readmission on a space available basis. The readmission must
occur within one calendar year of the initial withdrawal.
A student seeking readmission must have a current GPA of 2.5 or higher at the time of
admission. A letter requesting readmission must be submitted to the Practical Nursing
Office. The letter should address measures the student will institute for success in the
nursing program after readmission. If the student is not able to re-enter the program when
the letter for request for re-admittance is sent, he/she must resubmit a new letter of intent
if wanting to re-enter at a later time.
Student Handbook, Linda Caputi, Revised 10/29/07
49
Certificate Requirements
Each student must meet the following requirements to be awarded the Practical Nursing
Certificate at College of DuPage:
1. Satisfactorily complete all course requirements for the specific certificate.
2. Possess a minimum of 2.0 (C) average in the combined grade point average of all
College of DuPage courses numbered 1000 and above.
3. Complete a minimum of one-half the applicable credits at College of DuPage.
4. Earn the final applicable credits at College of DuPage.
5. File a petition for the certificate at least one semester before the anticipated
completion date.
6. Satisfy all financial obligations and other specific requirements.
7. Be in good standing at the time final credit for the certificate is earned.
For more information, refer to page 87 in the College of DuPage Catalog (2007-2009).
Student Handbook, Linda Caputi, Revised 10/29/07
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Requirements for Licensure in the State of Illinois
To receive a license to practice as a Licensed Practical Nurse, the applicant must meet the
following criteria:
1. Complete the required approved practical nursing program of not less than one
academic year in an approved school and graduate from the school; and
2. Provide proof of graduation from a nursing education program
3. Signature of the Director of the nursing education program, or other person
designated by the Director of the nursing education program
4. Pay the required examination fee
5. Verification of fingerprint processing
6. Pass the NLCEX-PN
Candidates for the NCLEX-PN must personally apply for the examination upon
graduation from an approved program. The examination is computer based. Candidates in
all states write the same national examination.
In determining licensure under this Section, the Department may take into consideration
any felony conviction of the applicant, but such a conviction shall not operate as an
automatic bar to registration.
A person shall be qualified to receive a license as a Practical Nurse if he or she has
passed NCLEX-PN as determined by and conducted by the Illinois Department of
Professional and Financial Regulation (IDPFR) to determine his or her fitness to receive
a license as a registered professional nurse.
For more information contact the Illinois Department of Professional and Financial
Regulation or refer to the Advanced Practice Nursing Act and Rules for the
Administration of Nursing and Advanced Practice Nursing Act.
Student Handbook, Linda Caputi, Revised 10/29/07
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Articulation
Graduates are encouraged to continue their nursing education after completing the
Practical Nursing Program. College of DuPage offers a one-semester transition course.
Upon successful completion of the transition course and meeting all other admission
requirements, the student is eligible to apply for admission to the College of DuPage
Associate Degree Nursing program preparing graduates for Registered Nurse Licensure.
The student will enter the ADN program at the second year level taking Nursing 2109,
2110, 2201, and 2202. Further information on articulation into the ADN program is
available through the Health Sciences Admission Office, the Practical Nursing Program
Coordinator, or the Associate Degree Nursing Program Coordinator.
Student Handbook, Linda Caputi, Revised 10/29/07
52
References
Alfaro-LeFevre, R. (2006). Applying the nursing process: A tool for critical thinking.
Philadelphia: Lippincott.
National Association for Practical Nurse Educators and Service (NAPNES). (2003).
Standards of practice for LPN/VNs. Silver Spring, MD: Author.
National Association for Practical Nurse Education and Service (NAPNES) (2006).
Draft: Standards of practice for LPN/VNs. Silver Spring, MD: Author.
National Council of State Boards of Nursing (2006). Business book NCSBN 2006 annual
meeting: The threshold of regulatory excellence: taking up the challenge.
Chicago: Author.
National Council of State Boards of Nursing (2005). NCLEX-PN examination: Detailed
test plan for the national council licensure examination for licensed
practical/vocational nurses. Chicago: Author.
National Federation of Licensed Practical Nurses, Inc. (NFLPN). (2003). National
practice standards for the licensed practical/vocational nurse. Raleigh, NC:
Author.
National League for Nursing (2005). The scope of practice for academic nurse educators.
New York: Author.
Porter-O’Grady, T. (2006). A new age for practice: Creating the framework for evidence.
In K. Malloch & T. Porter-O’Grady, Introduction to Evidence-Based Practice in
Nursing and Health Care. Boston: Jones and Bartlett Publishers.
Taylor, C., Lellis, C., & LeMone, P. (2005). Fundamentals of nursing: The art and
science of nursing care. (5th ed.). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
Student Handbook, Linda Caputi, Revised 10/29/07
53