University of St. Thomas Peavy School of Nursing Handbook December 2018

Undergraduate Nursing Student Handbook

Fall 2018 (Revised, December 11, 2018)

TABLE OF CONTENTS ATTENTION: Undergraduate Nursing Students ................................................................................... 1 Notification of Changes in UST-PSON Policies and Procedures ........................................................... 1 HISTORY OF THE UST-PSON ................................................................................................................. 2 ADMINISTRATION ................................................................................................................................

Vision .............................................................................................................................................

Mission ..........................................................................................................................................

Philosophy of Nursing ....................................................................................................................

BSN Program Goals ........................................................................................................................

BSN Student Outcomes .................................................................................................................

UST-PSON Curriculum Pillars .........................................................................................................

Code of Ethics for Nursing .............................................................................................................

Student Governance ......................................................................................................................

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ADMISSION TO THE BSN PROGRAM .................................................................................................... 9 Nursing Admission - Freshman ...................................................................................................... 9 Admission Considerations ............................................................................................................ 10 Nursing Admission – Transfer ....................................................................................................... 10 Post-Admission UST-PSON Requirements ................................................................................... 12 Documents Required for Clinical Rotations .................................................................................. 12 RN Licensure Eligibility .................................................................................................................. 13 UNIVERSITY RESOURCES FOR STUDENTS ............................................................................................ 13 Financial Aid .................................................................................................................................. 13 Doherty Library ............................................................................................................................. 14 Tutorial Services Center ................................................................................................................ 15 Counseling and Disability Services ............................................................................................... 16 Office of International Student and Scholar Services (OISSS) ...................................................... 17 Office of Health Promotion and Wellness .................................................................................... 18 Shuttle Service .............................................................................................................................. 19 Health Insurance ........................................................................................................................... 19 Campus Ministry ........................................................................................................................... 19 The Chapel of St. Basil the Great .................................................................................................. 20 Nursing Success Center (NSC) ....................................................................................................... 20 Student Complaints (UST) ............................................................................................................ 22 ACADEMIC POLICIES ............................................................................................................................ 23 Standard for Professional Behavior .............................................................................................. 23 Academic Advisors ........................................................................................................................ 23 Progression Policies ...................................................................................................................... 24 UST-PSON Grading Scale ........................................................................................................ 24 Readiness Assessment and Readiness Courses ............................................................................ 25 Repeating a Nursing Course ......................................................................................................... 26 Leave of Absence .......................................................................................................................... 27 i

Student Academic Grievance Procedure ...................................................................................... 27 Dismissal from the UST-PSON ...................................................................................................... 28 Appeal Process ............................................................................................................................. 28 Withdrawal ................................................................................................................................... 28 Academic Integrity ........................................................................................................................ 29 General Attendance/Participation Policies for the UST-PSON ..................................................... 29 Cancellation of Classes and Clinicals Due to Extreme Weather Conditions ................................. 30 Blended Learning .......................................................................................................................... 31 Written Assignments/Plagerism ................................................................................................... 31 Resources That Assist Students to Prevent Plagerism ................................................................. 32 Exams/Quizzes .............................................................................................................................. 32 Blackboard or Web-based Testing ................................................................................................ 33 Standardized Testing .................................................................................................................... 33 Specialty HESI Exams as Final Exams ............................................................................................ 33 HESI Comprehensive Exit Exam .................................................................................................... 33 Requirements for BSN Program Completion ................................................................................ 34 Steps in Achievement of Program Completion Requirements ..................................................... 34 Principles Guiding NLEX-RN Readiness Planning and Assessment ............................................... 34 Capstone Course Requirements – NURS 4655 Transition to Holistic Nursing Practice ................ 35 ACADEMIC POLICIES: CLINICAL PERFORMANCE ................................................................................. 37 Nursing Essential Functions .......................................................................................................... 37 Student Clinical Evaluations ......................................................................................................... 38 Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory Clinical Grading ................................................................................ 39 “Critical” Clinical Behaviors .......................................................................................................... 39 Unsafe Incidents ........................................................................................................................... 39 Clinical Experience Attendance .................................................................................................... 40 Medical Clearance for Missed Clinical Days for Health Reasons .................................................. 41 Medication Administration ........................................................................................................... 41 Student Transportation, Parking, and Client Transportation ....................................................... 42 Certification in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and First Aid ............................................ 42 Clinical Rotation Requirements .................................................................................................... 42 Drug Screening ............................................................................................................................. 44 Malpractice Insurance .................................................................................................................. 44 Healthcare Insurance .................................................................................................................... 44 Policy on Standard Precautions .................................................................................................... 44 Professional Appearance Guidelines ............................................................................................ 45 Uniform Policy .............................................................................................................................. 45 Community-Based and Mental Health Setting Attire ................................................................... 46 Name Pin ...................................................................................................................................... 46 Uniform Patch ............................................................................................................................... 46 Simulation Lab Attire .................................................................................................................... 46 Students with Disabilities ............................................................................................................. 46 GRADUATION, PINNING, COMMENCEMENT, AND LICENSURE .......................................................... 47 Intent to Graduate ........................................................................................................................ 47 Graduation Information ............................................................................................................... 47 Pinning Ceremony ........................................................................................................................ 47 ii

Commencement ........................................................................................................................... 48 Application to the State of Texas for an RN License ..................................................................... 49 Nursing Jurisprudence Exam ........................................................................................................ 49 Registration for NCLEX-RN ............................................................................................................ 49 APPENDICES ........................................................................................................................................ 51 PSON Organizational Chart BSN Degree Program Course of Studies Policies: S.001 UST PSON Social Media Policy S.002 Bounced Emails Policy S.003 Authorization for Release of Information to Clinical Facilities S.004 Nursing Course Syllabi Policy S.005 Acknowledgement of Receipt of PSON Student Handbook/Nursing RN Licensure Information Policy S.006 Bloodborne Pathogens S.007 Undergraduate Student Volunteering Opportunities Texas Administrative Code – Standards of Nursing Practice Texas Administrative Code – Unprofessional Conduct

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ATTENTION: Undergraduate Nursing Students This handbook describes policies and procedures relevant to the undergraduate nursing program at the University of St. Thomas Carol and Odis Peavy School of Nursing (UST-PSON).

It is the responsibility of every student to know and adhere to the policies and guidelines presented in these documents: • •

UST-PSON Undergraduate Nursing Student Handbook UST Student Handbook.

Notification of Changes in UST-PSON Policies and Procedures All UST-PSON faculty engage in ongoing program evaluation and evidence-based improvement which may require specific policy and procedure changes throughout the academic year. Updates to the UST-PSON Undergraduate Nursing Student Handbook will be posted to the online version located on Blackboard (https://blackboard.stthom.edu/webapps/login/) throughout the school year. To access the Handbook in Blackboard go to My Organizations, click on SON Student Resources, and click on Student Handbook.

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HISTORY OF THE UST-PSON The UST-PSON builds on the legacy of the Catholic nursing education programs that preceded it. The first training school for nurses in Houston was established by the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word in Houston under the administration of St. Joseph Hospital (1905-1948).

The program transitioned to Sacred Heart Dominican College (1948-1972) to become the first baccalaureate nursing program in Houston. The program made another transition in 1972 to the University of St. Thomas, where the BSN program was offered until 1986, when financial hardship caused by the severe economic downturn in Houston required the University to make the difficult decision to close the highly regarded nursing program. More than 2,100 nurses graduated from these programs between 1905 and 1986 and this group provided strong support for re-establishment of the nursing school at UST. In fall 2006, the University of St. Thomas Board of Directors and President Dr. Robert Ivany established a rigorous process for a feasibility assessment that resulted in the decision in June 2008 to reopen the School of Nursing. The SON admitted a cohort of students on May 29, 2012. On June 5, 2014, the UST Board approved the name change to the Carol and Odis Peavy School of Nursing. There have been more than 116 graduates since the first graduating class of 2014. The PSON takes pride in making an important contribution to the nursing workforce by successfully educating Hispanic, under-represented, and low-income students.

Nationally, 3% of the RN workforce is Hispanic; 14% in Texas. PSON Hispanic students typically represent 48% of our current nursing student body, Caucasian 21%, Asian 18%, and African-American 13%. In June of 2017, the UST-PSON relocated to the new Center for Science and Health Professions Building (CSHP).

ADMINISTRATION Poldi Tschirch, PhD, RN, CNE, HN-BC Interim Vice-President for Academic Affairs Dean and Professor Sr. Mary Martina Casey Chair in Nursing Angelina N. Chambers, PhD, APRN, CNM Associate Dean, SON Operations and Undergraduate Studies Professor, Cullen Trust for Higher Education Endowed Chair in Nursing Claudine Dufrene PhD, RN-BC, GNP-BC, CNE BSN Program Coordinator Assistant Professor

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Vision The UST-PSON will be nationally recognized as an educational community that is an exemplar in the formation of nurses for holistic healing ministries in the 21st century healthcare environment.

Mission Building on the mission of the UST and its Founders, the Basilian Fathers, and nourished by the historic traditions of Catholic nursing education and service, the UST-PSON will educate nurses intellectually, morally, and spiritually in the art and science of nursing as a compassionate healing ministry.

Philosophy of Nursing UST’s deep conviction about the nature of nursing as a healing ministry shapes the philosophy of the UST-PSON and serves as the standard measuring intent and outcome of all the school’s endeavors. With this undergirding, we frame and describe the essential elements of the healing ministry we pursue and make manifest: 

For the UST Nurse, Person is the ineffable expression of “God among us” that is the unique, complex multidimensional mystery of each human. Both nurse and patient, as persons, bring to healing encounters their self-awareness, intentionality and consciousness; these human capacities create the conditions for healing.

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For the UST Nurse, Nursing is a professional discipline and practice, both an art and a science, manifest as a healing ministry expressing the presence of God. Nurses bring to their relationships with persons a conscious, intentional and relational presence. Using their knowledge and skill, nurses express their therapeutic capacity through their unique spiritual calling and commitment, guiding others to a desired wholeness.



For the UST Nurse, Health is optimal wholeness of persons achieved through the full expression of individual and communal healing practices made possible through nursing, by nurses. Health is a multidimensional state of being that encompasses body, mind and spirit for the nurse and the patient in their shared encounters focused on care.



For the UST Nurse, Environment is the totality of all forces and factors that shape the nurse to patient encounters that make healing possible. Each encounter offers an unrepeatable moment, as environment is a constant state of change. Nurses enter the 3

care environment in order to create the conditions and relationships necessary for healing.

All members of the UST-PSON community, in embracing these fundamental understandings of the essential elements of nursing, create and participate in education, scholarship, service and care initiatives that make the healing presence of God manifest. They are guided by the human capacities for compassion, justice, reflection, creativity, and moral choice.

BSN Program Goals 1. Create a program based on a holistic nursing framework that contributes to the mission of UST as a Catholic liberal arts university dedicated to the education of leaders of faith and character.

2. Prepare highly qualified graduates for careers in nursing as evidenced by 85% NCLEX pass rate and 90% employment within six months post-graduation.

3. Enhance the diversity of the nursing workforce in Houston, Texas and the nation with graduates who are prepared to practice nursing as a professional discipline and a healing ministry.

The UST core curriculum goals reflect the knowledge, skills and attitudes associated with a classical liberal arts education and are highly congruent with the standards for professional nursing education articulated in the AACN Essentials of Baccalaureate Education for Professional Nursing Practice (2008), the Texas Board of Nursing Differentiated Essential Competencies (2010), and the Institute of Medicine Core Competencies (2005). The USTPSON BSN Program Outcomes guide the preparation of graduates to achieve entry-level competency for the transition into professional nursing practice as a provider of safe, high quality patient-centered care, an effective member of the health care team, and member of the nursing profession whose practice reflects an understanding of nursing as a healing ministry.

In order to meet those program goals, students are expected to meet the following learning outcomes upon graduation.

BSN Student Outcomes Upon completion of the baccalaureate nursing program at the University of St. Thomas, with its organizing framework based on healing and holistic care, the graduate will be able to: 1. Articulate a personal philosophy of nursing based on an understanding of nursing as a healing ministry rooted in the historic Catholic caring tradition and focused on wholeness – mind, body and spirit.

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2. Integrate foundational concepts from behavioral, life, social sciences and biomedical sciences, the humanities, theology and philosophy into a nursing knowledge base as a resource for understanding and responding to the human experience of health, illness and healing.

3. Provide relationship-centered nursing care that is grounded in nursing theory and guided by evidence-based best practice standards to support individuals, families and communities in achieving their goals for healing and wholeness.

4. Coordinate nursing care for individuals, families and communities through creation of the conditions and relationships that support healing and wholeness.

5. Demonstrate communication skills that support the creation of effective therapeutic relationships, interdisciplinary relationships and effective advocacy for the healing goals of all recipients of nursing care.

6. Integrate principles for culturally competent care into the holistic nursing process for individuals, families and communities.

7. Use concepts, skills and technologies from computer and information sciences to support the knowledge work of nursing.

8. Demonstrate skills in reflective practice that facilitate one’s continuing growth in nursing knowledge, clinical reasoning and the self-awareness essential for creating healing presence and healing relationships.

9. Utilize nursing theory, nursing research and methods of clinical inquiry as the basis for continuously enhancing the quality of care.

10. Utilize beginning leadership and management skills to coordinate the delivery of care and create healing environments in the settings in which nursing care is delivered.

11. Articulate the inter-relationship of environment and health at local, national and global levels.

12. Apply principles and values consistent with Catholic social teaching to the analysis of health care delivery and health policy.

13. Participate in the social advocacy role of the nurse through membership in professional organizations and engagement in community service.

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14. Practice professional nursing in accordance with the standards of the Nursing Practice Act of the State of Texas, the baccalaureate level competencies for the BSN graduate defined by the Texas Board of Nursing and the American Nurses Association Code of Ethics.

UST-PSON Curriculum Pillars The following four pillars are the foundation for the UST curriculum in the art and science of nursing as a compassionate healing ministry: I. The Knowledge Base of Nursing as a Professional Discipline Philosophical Assumption: Nursing is a professional discipline with a unique knowledge base grounded in multiple ways of knowing that guide professional practice.

1. Nursing knowledge is built on a foundation of the liberal arts and sciences.

2. Nursing knowledge encompasses nursing theory and is derived from multiple ways of knowing and is applied in direct care of patients through clinical practice.

3. Professional nursing practice is congruent with and integrates the larger knowledge base of the humanities and of the biomedical, social, behavioral and life sciences.

II. Learning as a Mutual Process of Creation and Discovery Philosophical Assumption: Learning is a partnership in which the teacher guides the student in a participatory way in the creation and discovery of knowledge and understanding.

1. Nursing is a practice discipline; therefore, learning is best realized in a reflective, engaged process occurring within a clinical practice.

2. The capacity for practice inquiry and sound clinical reasoning is essential to the development of professional competence evidenced in safe, quality patient care.

3. Optimal learning occurs within a disciplined, creative, participatory learning environment that facilitates and supports discovery and innovation.

III. Nursing as a Healing Ministry Philosophical Assumption: Nursing as a profession is rooted in the belief that this is a spiritual calling committed to healing.

1. Nursing has been the profession traditionally responsible for placing the individual in the best position to heal through nature’s reparative process.

2. Nursing practice focuses on creating the conditions and relationships necessary for healing to occur, focused on patient wholeness – body, mind and spirit.

3. Nursing is a manifestation of Christ’s healing ministry.

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IV. The Nurse as an Instrument of Healing Philosophical Assumption: Self-discovery and expansion of consciousness are foundational to the therapeutic capacity of the nurse, the essential capacity for healing practices.

1. Expansion of one’s consciousness is an essential part of developing compassion and the capacity to facilitate healing.

2. Attunement to Christ consciousness is the ultimate aim of spiritual development in the Catholic tradition and facilitates a deeper understanding of nursing’s healing ministry.

Code of Ethics for Nurses 1. The nurse practices with compassion and respect for the inherent dignity, worth, and unique attributes of every person.

2. The nurse’s primary commitment is to the patient, whether an individual, family, group, community, or population.

3. The nurse promotes, advocates for, and protects the rights, health, and safety of the patient.

4. The nurse has authority, accountability, and responsibility for nursing practice; makes decisions; and takes action consistent with the obligation to promote health and to provide optimal care.

5. The nurse owes the same duties to self as to others, including the responsibility to promote health and safety, preserve wholeness of character and integrity, maintain competence, and continue personal and professional growth.

6. The nurse, through individual and collective effort, establishes, maintains, and improves the ethical environment of the work setting and conditions of employment that are conducive to safe, quality health care.

7. The nurse, in all roles and settings, advances the profession through research and scholarly inquiry, professional standards development, and the generation of both nursing and health policy.

8. The nurse collaborates with other health professionals and the public to protect human rights, promote health diplomacy, and reduce health disparities.

9. The profession of nursing, collectively through its professional organizations, must articulate nursing values, maintain the integrity of the profession, and integrate principle 7

of social justice into nursing and health policy.

American Nurses Association. (2015). Code of ethics for nurses with interpretive statements. Washington, DC: American Nurses Publishing.

Student Governance The faculty welcomes student participation in the functions of the UST-PSON. To help the UST-PSON gather data for decisions, faculty encourages students to share problems, needs, concerns, and suggestions. Numerous mechanisms have been implemented to obtain student input, information, ideas, and opinions prior to making decisions. These include student direct interaction with faculty, formal faculty/course evaluations and student debriefings or focus groups. Faculty/course evaluations are conducted online each semester by the UST Office of Institutional Assessment. Results are analyzed and shared with the Dean of Nursing, Associate Dean and the Course Coordinator.

The faculty is committed to student engagement and accountability in optimizing learning conditions within the UST-PSON. Since 2012, the primary method for accomplishing this goal has been through regularly scheduled meetings between student representatives appointed by peers in their respective cohorts, course coordinators, and faculty leaders. As part of our evaluation and planning process, the faculty identified the need to offer alternative and multiple avenues for student engagement. We believe it is time to shift student engagement from a course level focus to a more comprehensive focus.

Toward this goal, the faculty has expanded the number of avenues for student engagement: 1. For course level issues, faculty will periodically seek feedback from the class as a whole regarding issues that need to be addressed and students who have individual needs can speak directly, one-on-one, with course coordinators.

2. Beginning Fall 2016, the Dean and faculty will hold UST-PSON All-School meetings at the beginning of fall semester; these meetings will provide the opportunity to discuss proposed program enhancements, acknowledge achievements, and address student concerns.

3. The Dean and Associate Dean will schedule Open Door sessions during which they will be available to meet with students.

4. Students may be invited to participate in focus groups as needed to advance program goal achievement.

5. Students will continue to participate in the current Nursing Success Center Student Advisory Board.

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ADMISSION TO THE BSN PROGRAM Nursing Admission for Incoming Freshmen Our Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a 4-year program. Our unique curriculum focuses on patient-centered nursing which is based on healing and holistic care. This major prepares you for initial RN licensure and entry into the workforce.

Program Timeline Freshman Course of Studies (/Public/getFile.asp?File_Content_ID=116642).

Early Admission If you’re an incoming freshman and you indicate “nursing” or “pre-nursing” interest on your UST application, you’re automatically reserved a space with the Peavy School of Nursing! You must meet certain requirements during your freshman year to maintain this space in the cohort, including: • •

A 3.0 overall college GPA A 3.0 GPA in all nursing pre-requisite courses.

Pre-nursing and nursing students are actively advised by their nursing academic advisor. The advisor will help you make sure you’re taking all necessary classes during the program.

Regular Admission If you don’t meet the above requirements for early admission or decide to change your major to nursing during your freshman year, you may still apply to the School of Nursing in the spring semester of your freshman year or once your pre-requisites are complete.

Application Period February 1 – June 1 Eligibility Requirements for Regular Admission You must meet the following requirements by the June 1st deadline to be considered for admission: •

3.0 overall college GPA

•

Anatomy and Physiology I and II complete.

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Admission Considerations Students are admitted to the School of Nursing by a Nursing Admissions Committee.

The committee reviews all eligible applicants after the June 1st deadline and will offer decisions no later than July 15th.

In addition to eligibility requirements, the Nursing Admissions Committee Considers a number of other factors, including, but not limited to: • • • • •

All grades for Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, Nutrition (if complete) Math grades Full-time vs. part-time class load Patterns of repeats and/or withdraws Extracurricular activities and obligations.

Students admitted to the UST Carol and Odis Peavy School of Nursing will be subject to participation requirements established by healthcare organizations that host student clinical rotations. They include criminal background checks, CPR certifications and specific immunizations. These requirements may also include verification of identity and compliance with federal immigration law.

All students entering the clinical major are required to complete the HESI A2 which assessed essential foundational knowledge.

The HESI A2 will be administered post-admission to nursing freshmen at the end of the spring semester of the freshman year. Students who do not meet the passing standard of 80% in each of the five categories (RC, Grammar, Vocabulary, Math, Anatomy/Physiology) must enroll in the NURS 1032 Foundations for Critical Thinking in Nursing readiness course during the following summer semester.

Nursing Admissions – Transfers/Students Seeking a 2nd Undergraduate Degree Next Start: Fall 2019 Application Opens: Spring 2019 Applications Deadlines: Nursing Application Complete By _____________________________________________ Early Decision I March 1, 2019 Early Decision II April 1, 2019 DEADLINE June 1, 2019 10

Admission Process UST’s nursing application opens in Spring 2019 (specific date TBA). Transfer students applying to the School of Nursing do NOT need to submit the general UST application or submit official transcripts at this time. Additional details about the application, including how to submit transcripts/documents and the required essay prompt, will be available at a later date.

Eligibility Requirements Minimum Requirements to apply and to be considered for the School of Nursing: • • • • •

3.0 overall college GPA, based on a 4.0 scale 3.0 science GPA (including Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Microbiology, and Nutrition as completed by submission of application) Submission of HESI A2 scores Anatomy and Physiology I and II (with labs) complete by application deadline At least 5-7 other pre-requisites complete. See Transfer Nursing Guide (/Public/getFile.asp?File_Content_ID=102455)

A competitive candidate should meet all minimum criteria, plus: • •

• •

Grades of A or B in all attempts of nursing science course Composite HESI A2 score of 80 or higher, including: 0 A score of 8o or higher in the Anatomy and Physiology section 0 A score of 80 or higher in the Vocabulary section.

Grade of B or higher in math courses Submission of a well-written, compelling essay which answers the required questions and follows required formatting (font, page length, etc.), and demonstrates the student’s passion for nursing as a career and vocation.

Additional factors may also be considered, such as patterns of withdraws or repeats, extracurricular activities and obligations, and other information the committee views as important.

After Admission Students admitted to the UST Carol and Odis Peavy School of Nursing will be subject to participation requirements established by healthcare organizations that host student clinical rotations. This includes criminal background checks, CPR certification and 11

specific immunizations. These requirements may also include verification of identity and compliance with federal immigration law.

Program Timeline Our Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a 4-year program. Transfer students with some or all pre-requisites complete may be able to graduate in as little as 3 years.

•

Transfer Course of Studies (/Public/getFile.asp?File_Content_ID=116643) (students with 60+ hours of college level credit)

Transfer students can apply with some pre-requisite and core classes in progress. See our Nursing Admissions Coordinator, Cathy Ruhnke to maximize credit toward UST’s nursing program.

Post-Admission UST-PSON Requirements As of Summer 2018, the following readiness assessments are required: HESI Admission Assessment (HESI A2 Exam) • Passing Standard – 80% or higher on each of the required sections.

• Required Sections: Math, A&P, Reading Comprehension, Grammar, and Vocabulary • Learning Assessment – Personality Style, Learning Style, and Critical Thinking sections Student acceptance to the nursing program will continue if they have successfully: a) Met all readiness assessment criteria either through achieving a passing score on initial assessment or completion of the requisite learning plan over the course of the sophomore year. b) Completed all specified nursing pre-requisite courses, including NURS 2342 Health Assessment, with a grade of “C” or higher.

Documents Required for Clinical Rotations To be able to participate in a clinical rotation, nursing students must provide evidence of CPR certification; completion of criminal background checks; proof of medical health insurance, drug screening results; outcomes of titers (blood tests to determine the presence of antibodies in your system); and up-to-date immunizations, including Hepatitis B which may require six months to complete. The UST-PSON requires that each student submit this documentation before beginning classes in the nursing major. No student will be given permission to register for classes until the School has received this documentation.

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Additionally, clinical facilities may require documentation of your citizenship/immigration status. Therefore, you should be prepared to provide those facilities with documents showing your compliance with federal immigration laws and policies if so requested.

Please see Clinical Rotation Requirements section under Academic Policies: Clinical Performance for specific details on these requirements.

RN Licensure Eligibility Completion of degree requirements for the BSN does not guarantee licensure as a registered nurse.

Eligibility for licensure as a registered nurse in Texas is determined by the Texas Board of Nursing. Texas law prohibits certain persons from taking the licensure exam and practicing nursing, i.e., persons who have been convicted of a felony, a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude, or have engaged in conduct resulting in the revocation of probation imposed pursuant to such a conviction.

Criminal background screening will be completed on all students accepted for admission into the nursing program prior to enrollment in clinical courses. The UST-PSON will participate in the Background Check Program through the Texas Board of Nursing (BON). Students pay all expenses related to all screening. A student with a significant criminal background or a current conviction may not be allowed to register for nursing courses until the BON issues a declaratory order stating the individual is eligible for initial licensure.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Individuals who have reason to believe they may have barriers to licensure may request the BON to make a determination of eligibility. An individual may file a request for a declaratory order of eligibility with the BON. It is important to pursue this option early (prior to starting nursing courses) in order to avoid challenges related to licensure eligibility. Applications and guidelines for filing a declaratory order are found at the BON website at www.bon.state.tx.us.

UNIVERSITY RESOURCES FOR STUDENTS Financial Aid The University of St. Thomas seeks to assist students in need of financial assistance through an extensive array of financial aid programs. The UST-PSON urges students to contact the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid at 713.525.2170 or via email at finaid@stthom.edu for information and assistance. For an overview about financial aid at UST, please refer to the Undergraduate Catalog.

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In the spring of each year, the UST-PSON awards various nursing scholarships to students of need and/or high achievement. Students are notified in advance of the application deadline and requirements for these awards.

Doherty Library The Doherty Library has a strong commitment to the liberal arts in order to cultivate the life of the mind and to impart knowledge to the student that will instill a love for truth and promote intellectual discipline. The library will continue to support the core values of the University: goodness, discipline, knowledge, and community.

The University has a strong commitment to the religious, moral and intellectual formation of the whole person. To support this commitment, the mission of the Doherty Library is to acquire, and make readily available, print and electronic information resources in accordance with the diverse academic needs of the University.

We encourage you to explore the varied strengths of our library collections. Come browse the book stacks, study in our Silent Reading Room, pursue scholarly research using our computer network or use our wireless LAN. With over 250,000 books, access to 80,000 journals and magazine titles, and subscriptions to over 150 databases, the Doherty Library is a major learning resource for students, faculty and the Houston community. We hope that you find the Doherty Library more than adequate in fulfilling your research and academic needs. a. Doherty Library Resources for Nursing: Doherty Library has an extensive collection of electronic resources for nursing including databases on nursing and allied health literature, electronic journals, e-books, nursing web links and other resources. The URL is http://campusguides.stthom.edu/nursing.

Assistance is available from Electronic Resources Librarian Loan Nguyen. She may be reached via email at ltnguyen1@stthom.edu or by phone at 713.525.2189. b. Interlibrary Loans: Doherty Library participates in the TexShare Card program, which allows users to immediately obtain items directly from a lending library. The TexShare library card enables current UST students, faculty, and staff to borrow up to 4 books at a time from the University of Houston, Houston Baptist University, and other participating Texas libraries (Rice University does not accept the TexShare Card; see the Rice Reciprocal Borrowing Program below).

Doherty Library has a reciprocal borrowing program with Rice University, which allows UST students, faculty, and staff to immediately obtain items directly from Fondren Library at Rice University.

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To take advantage of the Rice Reciprocal Borrowing Program, you must: •

• • •

•

Know the book you want in advance, as well as its call number. You can obtain this information by searching Rice University's Fondren Library online catalog.

Ask the Reference Librarian, if you need help.

Fill out a Rice Reciprocal Borrowing Form at the Doherty Library Circulation Desk and be sure that it is signed by a Doherty Library Circulation staff member.

Bring your completed form and UST ID to Rice's Fondren Library to check out the book.

You may borrow up to 4 books at a time for 4 weeks. Please keep in mind that Rice overdue fines are a $1 per item per day, so be sure to return your materials to Rice by the due date given. Single renewals may be arranged by contacting through email the Rice staff member noted on the information handout you received when you filled out your form(s).

Please make use of this privilege when UST classes are in session. Rice University does not honor requests when there are no regular UST classes.

For more information about Interlibrary Loan go online to http://www.stthom.edu/Library-Research/Library-Services/InterlibraryLoan/Index.aqf and to http://www.stthom.edu/Library_Research/Research/Index.aqf for research tools.

Tutorial Services Center Located on the second floor of the Crooker Center, the Tutorial Services Center (TSC) provides peer tutors in many content areas for students wanting extra help in a specific subject. Tutors provide a variety of assistance ranging from helping students understand general concepts to reviewing the writing process. The latter includes pointing out problems such as unclear thesis statements, grammar errors, and weaknesses in organization and development. Students may use tutoring for a single issue or for help on a continual basis. All tutoring services are free.

The TSC also offers monthly workshops in thesis development, the research paper process, writing a successful essay examination, and identifying academic integrity issues. Please check Campus Announcements and the TSC website: http://www.stthom.edu/Campus_Student_Life/Student_Services/Tutorial_Services_Center /Index.aqf for dates for these offerings.

Appointments are not necessary. Peer tutors are available Monday to Thursday from 9 am – 7 pm and on Friday from 9 am – 2 pm. However, with the exception of writing, not all subjects are covered each day. Students must check tutor schedules in the TSC. If there is a conflict, students may leave their contact information and a tutor will set up an alternate time. If a number of students from a particular course share the same problem, group tutoring is 15

available. Otherwise, tutoring occurs on a one-to-one basis. You may phone Tutorial Services at 713.525.3878.

Counseling and Disability Services Counseling and Disability Services (C&DS) provides various services for students related to emotional adjustment, mental health, developmental issues, academic skill-building and crisis intervention. Confidential services are provided at no cost for currently enrolled University students, are generally short-term, and follow a brief intervention model. Counselors will assess the nature and extent of a student’s concern and make appropriate recommendations.

Services offered include initial assessment, consultation, individual and group counseling, emergency and crisis intervention, academic support, campus outreach, and referral information. More information is available at https://www.stthom.edu/Campus_Student_Life/Student_Services/Counseling_and_Disabili ty_Services/Counseling_Services.aqf. For an appointment or additional information, contact Counseling and Disability Services at 713.525.2169 or Ext. 6953 from a campus phone.

C&DS also provides academic accommodations for students with disabilities. If a student has a documented disability, reasonable and appropriate academic accommodations for students who qualify as disabled under Section 504 of the Federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, and the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 are available to ensure equal access to programs and opportunities at the University. The term disability means any person who: (a) has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, (b) has a record of such impairment, or (c) is being regarded as having such an impairment. Covered disabilities may include: • • • •

learning disabilities; health impairments; physical limitations; and/or, psychiatric disabilities.

Students should make an appointment with professional staff at C&DS to review the nature and history of the disability as well as present concerns related to the educational environment. For information regarding the procedures required to obtain academic accommodations at UST, please refer to the UST Undergraduate Catalog or visit their website at: www.stthom.edu/counseling. For an appointment or additional information, contact Counseling and Disability Services at 713.525.2169 or Ext. 6953.

Each semester, students receiving accommodations must present their accommodations letters to their professors. A copy of the accommodations letter must also be given to the Coordinator of Nursing Student Academic Services, 4102 Yoakum, SHP Room 202.

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Office of International Student and Scholar Services (OISSS) The Office of International Student and Scholar Services helps international students navigate the visa process and remain in compliance with immigration regulations. OISSS oversees all F and J visa holders that attend UST and reports to government agencies. OISSS also provides resources like workshops on how to file taxes and information about work-based visas.

We aim to: provide an educational environment for students to learn and comply with immigration regulations, deliver a high level of customer services and bring international education to the University of St. Thomas as a whole. Most importantly, we strive to ensure that the students and the university remain in compliance with the Department of Homeland Security and Department of State.

Maintaining F-1 and J-1 Status Per immigration regulations, F and J visa holders are required to “enroll and complete a full course of study� every regular semester (Fall and Spring), thus making academic progress towards a degree. Undergraduate students are required to take a minimum of 12 credit hours; 9 credits for graduate students. Summer enrollment is optional unless it is the student’s first semester at UST. Summer admits (both undergraduate and graduate) must enroll for a minimum of six credit hours in order to maintain their status. A student may fall below fulltime enrollment in their final semester or for other reasons mandated by United States Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS). Students are advised to seek guidance from the Office of International Student and Scholar Services (OISSS) for more information.

Immigration does have specifications on how many online/hybrid courses an international student may take. A student takes more than the appropriate amount of online/hybrid classes will be out of status. To immigration a student that does not physically attend a class automatically becomes a Homeland Security issue.

Total number of credit hours 9 credit hours 12 credit hours 15 credit hours

# of required credit hours of face-to-face classes 6 6 9

Acceptable # of credit hours of online courses 3 6 6

Additionally, students must obtain permission from an International Student Advisor (ISA) before dropping a course, changing degree programs or withdrawing from the University. The OISSS reserves the exclusive authority in authorizing such requests. Failure to obtain such 17

permission beforehand will result in a direct violation of one’s status, and a termination of their SEVIS record.

Immigration documents such as passports and I-20’s/DS-2019’s must be valid at all times.

Passports must be valid for at least six months into the future; I-20’s must be extended before the expiration date. Failure to extend the end date of one’s I-20 will result in a termination of one’s SEVIS record and will be required to apply for reinstatement.

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) a. Eligibility: Students must have been lawfully enrolled as a student on a full-time basis (graduate 9 hours) for at least one academic year. This means that you must have completed at least two semesters during which you should have established and maintained good F-1 status.

If your program requires immediate participation, there are exceptions for some graduate students. b. Restrictions: CPT consisting of 20 hours or less per week is considered part-time. Any employment over 20 hours per week is considered full-time. Students who engage in one year (12 months cumulative) or more of full-time CPT are automatically ineligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT).

For more information regarding CPT, please see an International Student Advisor.

Office of Health Promotion and Wellness The Office of Health Promotion and Wellness (HP&W) is committed to advancing the health and well-being of the University of St. Thomas community. HP&W responds to the needs of the students and the UST campus at large by developing preventative and active outreach programs in conjunction with peer educators. Questions about service may be directed to the Office of Health Promotion and Wellness at 713.525.3513--or via email at wellness@stthom.edu. a. Outreach Programs: • Programs include alcohol awareness, stress, depression and suicide prevention, substance abuse, fitness and nutrition, men’s and women’s health issues, etc.

• A health fair is held every spring in conjunction with local health and wellness agencies.

• HP&W also disseminates prevention and educational literature.

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b. Health Services: • UST partners with the University of Texas Health Services (UTHS) in the Medical Center to provide medical assistance to students. UTHS is listed as a Primary Care Provider with Medicare and most insurance plans.

• Enrolled students who need medical assistance visit the UTHS clinic.

• UTHS is located at 7000 Fannin, Suite 1620, in the Medical Center.

• For questions about medical services available or to make an appointment, please call UTHS at 713.500.3267. c. Nurse Health Line: Not feeling well? Call the Nurse Health Line at 713.338.7979. Registered nurses are available 24/7. Let them know your health issue and they will assist you in deciding where and when to go for treatment. This service is free to all Harris County residents regardless of insurance coverage. Bilingual staff are also available.

Shuttle Service The UST Campus Police offer free shuttle services to all students for transportation to local businesses such as nearby grocery stores, pharmacies, museums, the Houston Zoo, and the Medical Center for doctors’ appointments. Call 713.525.3888 to schedule a shuttle. The shuttle runs August – May. The shuttle is located in the circle drive between Guinan Residence Hall and the Moran Center Parking Garage on Graustark Street.

Health Insurance Many hospitals require that students carry personal health insurance before they can do clinical rotations at their facilities. Students will have to provide documentation of their health insurance upon enrollment in the nursing program at UST. Assistance in obtaining insurance is provided by Gateway to Care, a Harris County nonprofit organization. Call 713.783.4616 and ask to speak to a navigator.

Campus Ministry The Office of Campus Ministry organizes worship and spiritual activities for the entire University community. At the beginning of the fall semester, the traditional Mass of the Holy Spirit draws the community together to dedicate the year to the wisdom and guidance of the Holy Spirit. Formal programs for adult baptism and confirmation are coordinated through the Campus Ministry Office.

In addition to personal spiritual direction in which the University priests assist, Campus Ministry organizes student retreats, informal Bible studies, prayer services, athletic and departmental retreats, as well as programs to build community at the University. Each year, 19

the Freshmen Weekend Challenge and Alternate Spring Break experience are organized as well as other integrating opportunities. Campus Ministry works conjointly with Counseling Services, Residence Life and Student Activities to assist students with volunteer activities and support needs. The Basilian Fathers are available for confession before daily Mass or by appointment. All members of the University community are welcome to join in the services of Campus Ministry.

The Chapel of St. Basil the Great Campus Ministry and the Chapel of St. Basil are the center of the University’s spiritual life and mission. The academic mall, with the Chapel of St. Basil at one end and the Doherty Library at the other, represents faith and reason in dialogue. This is the ideal of a Catholic university, where the covered walkway connects the various academic disciplines, each seeking the truth about God and the world.

The Chapel’s name derives from the patron saint of the Basilian Fathers, the Catholic religious congregation that founded the University of St. Thomas. The Basilian Fathers are dedicated to education and evangelization through the charism of Jesus Christ the teacher.

Designed by Philip Johnson, the Chapel is a prominent place of prayer and worship for the University community. It is the setting for Sunday and daily Eucharist, including occasional Masses in Spanish and French. The Chapel is open daily for private prayer and reflection.

Nursing Success Center (NSC) The mission of the Nursing Success Center (NSC) is to help students reach their academic goals by providing quality services in a student friendly environment. Geny Moreno, MS is the Director, SON Retention Services. She may be reached at 713.525.6934. The NSC hours of operation vary from semester to semester. Check on Blackboard for the current schedule or phone the NSC at 713-525-6938. a. Peer-Facilitated Study Group Program NSC organizes group study sessions for undergraduate students enrolled in pre-nursing and nursing courses at UST. Pre-nursing and nursing students can study in groups and help one another. These groups are facilitated by volunteer students who have already successfully completed the course. Note: Students desiring assistance in non-nursing courses will be referred to the UST Tutorial Services Center. b. Peer Mentoring Program To assist incoming students in their social, personal and academic transition to college, this program pairs them with other undergraduates in the nursing program.

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c. Pre-Nursing Advising Program The NSC is committed to advising students so they will be successful in completing the Pre-Nursing courses. Advisors help students to identify and enroll in appropriate core and pre-nursing courses, to become familiar with UST academic policies/procedures, and to monitor their academic progress. d. Nursing Academic Support Program Students admitted to the UST Nursing Program can receive additional academic support in nursing courses from peers, faculty, and consultants. Students requesting intensive tutoring in specific nursing courses will be matched up with a Student Peer Tutor proficient in that course material. Other resources include consultants who offer Academic Testing Skills preparation and Mind Body Relaxation (MBR) sessions before course and standardized exams. Meetings are available to discuss and monitor students’ NCLEX-RN licensure prep progress. e. New Student Orientation (Fall & Spring) This event welcomes new and transfer students to the program and introduces them to the UST-PSON faculty, staff, and policies. f. Technological Resources Web-based tutorials and computers are available in the NSC for student use. g. Social Events Holidays such as Halloween, Christmas, Valentine’s Day and Easter are celebrated at the NSC. h. Clubs & Organizations Nursing students at UST may join professional nursing organizations such as the National Student Nurses Association (NSNA) and UST-NSNA. Students who demonstrate excellence in scholarship may be invited to join the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society. Contact the NSC for more information. i. NSC Student Advisory Board (NSC-SAB) Representatives of each nursing cohort will provide feedback to the administrators of the UST-PSON at meetings held two times a semester. Contact the NSC for more information.

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Student Complaints (UST) The University of St. Thomas strives to provide a safe, humane, and responsive learning environment for students. When conflicts arise, students are encouraged to resolve the complaint informally. In the case that an issue cannot be resolved informally, the individual has a right to initiate a formal complaint through the Office of the Dean of Students. Student complaints may include, but are not limited to, issues regarding classroom instruction, campus services and offices, as well as issues with other students.

Students are encouraged to resolve all complaints informally, first by meeting with the person directly involved with the complaint. If the complaint cannot resolved, students are encouraged to submit a formal complaint.

NOTE: If the complaint is one regarding academics, see the Academic Grievance Policy for procedures.

Formal complaints must be made in writing, submitted on the official complaint form, found at www.stthom.edu/dos. No anonymous complaints will be accepted. Upon receipt of the formal written complaint, the Dean of Students or designee will review the complaint, assess validity, and forward to the appropriate department for further review and resolution.

A. All academic/classroom complaints will be forwarded to the chair/dean of the academic department and the Vice President for Academic Affairs.

B. All complaints about a staff/faculty actions/behavior will be forwarded to the employee’s immediate supervisor and department chair/dean, and human resources (for record keeping purposes).

C. All complaints about general campus services, other students’ actions/behaviors, code of conduct violations will remain in the office of Student Affairs.

D. All other complaints will remain in the office of Student Affairs.

The dean and/or next level supervisor will schedule a time to meet with the complainant to discuss and resolve the complaint. At this time, the complainant should bring all supporting documentation.

If the complainant does not agree with the resolution of the complaint, he/she may appeal the dean's or next level supervisor's decision to the vice president overseeing the department involved in the complaint. The student’s written appeal, including all supporting documentation, will then be forwarded to the department's vice president, who may request an appointment with the complainant to discuss the appeal or may choose to make a decision based upon a review of the written documentation. The vice president will make a decision 22

concerning the complaint and notify the complainant of the decision in writing. The decision of the vice president is final.

After exhausting the University’s complaint process, current, former, and prospective students may initiate a complaint with Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. More information about how to file a complaint with THECB can be found at www.thecb.state.tx.us. Complaints will be accepted by sending the required forms (found on the THECB website listed above) either by email to StudentComplaints@thecb.state.tx.us or by mail to: Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, College Readiness and Success Division, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788.

ACADEMIC POLICIES Standard for Professional Behavior All students will be advised of the UST Code of Student Conduct during program orientation, and via the Undergraduate Handbook. The Code of Student Conduct is established in order to uphold the academic mission and core values of the University of St. Thomas. It is the students’ responsibility to adhere to the rules, regulations and policies of the University as well as Federal, State, and local laws. See Section 24 of the UST Student Handbook for details.

Conduct for nursing students will also be guided by the professional standards established by the TXBON Rule 217.11 Standards of Nursing Practice and Rule 217.12 Unprofessional Conduct. These rules can be accessed online at the TXBON website. http://www.bon.texas.gov/nursinglaw/rr.html. (See Appendices.)

Academic Advisors All UST-PSON students admitted to the nursing major will be assigned a nursing program academic advisor. Students are encouraged to establish a relationship with their advisors who will assist them with the University academic experience. The academic advisor is available for: 1. Planning coursework for the entire curriculum, with projected graduation date.

2. Assistance in selecting courses during fall and spring registration times. Students must see their advisor each semester prior to registration to discuss progress and to remove the advising hold that must be lifted before a student can complete on-line registration 3. Advice/direction on how to manage problems that a student may encounter in course work related to studying, seeking tutoring, etc.

4. Maintaining contact with faculty and the UST-PSON. 5. See https://www.stthom.edu/Academics/Academic_Advising/Index.aqf for more information about advising.

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It is recommended that a student set up an appointment with the assigned academic advisor by either: 1. Calling the advisor’s office and talking with the advisor; or if the advisor is not in the office, leaving a message where the student can be reached on a return call; 2. Contacting the advisor through e-mail to set up an appointment; or, 3. Stopping by the advisor’s office during scheduled office hours.

Progression Policies The four-year BSN degree plan must be completed within six years. Students will work with academic advisors to develop a progression plan, which will be reviewed twice a year. (See BSN Degree Course of Studies sample plan in Appendices.)

UST-PSON Grading Scale: A 95 - 100 B81-83 A90 - 94 C+ 78-80 B+ 87-89 C 75-77* B 84-86 C72-74 *C or higher is required to pass any Nursing course.

D+ D F

69-71 65-68 <65

A grade of C (75 – 77) or higher is required to pass all nursing courses. A weighted 75% test average is required for successful course completion regardless of other course grades. A student must achieve a 75% weighted course average on tests before other evaluative components are added for the final course grade. Students who do not achieve a 75% weighted average will be awarded his/her exam average grade as the final course grade. A course in the major for which the student has received less than a C, and/or an unsatisfactory clinical grade, must be repeated. For clinical nursing courses, both the didactic and clinical portions must be repeated regardless of what part(s) of the course were failed. A student failing to earn a C in a course with a clinical component must successfully repeat the course with a grade of C or higher.

Successful completion of a Nursing Non-Clinical Course is defined as follows: 1. Weighted 75% test average.

2. Completion of all course assignments and tests.

3. Achievement of a final course grade of C or higher (≥ 75).

4. Final course grades at 0.5 or higher will be rounded up.

Successful completion of a Nursing Clinical Course is defined as follows: 1. Grade of “A” (90-100%) on Dosage & Solutions Quiz prior to starting clinicals.

2. Weighted 75% test average.

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3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Completion of all course assignments and tests.

Completion and submission of clinical assignments and written work.

Achievement of a final course grade of C or higher (≥ 75) AND A satisfactory clinical evaluation.

Final course grades at 0.5 or higher will be rounded up.

NOTE: Students will receive a final course grade of C- or lower when their overall course grade is higher but they receive an unsatisfactory grade in clinical. If their overall grade for the course is less than a C-, they will receive the grade earned. Students who fail a course must apply to repeat the course. (See Repeat a Nursing Course.)

Readiness Assessment and Readiness Courses For Freshman and SophomoreLevel Nursing Students: The goal of the readiness assessment process for incoming students is to identify potential areas of needed academic skill development to support success in the nursing curriculum.

Students need highly developed reading and math skills and strong content knowledge in anatomy and physiology as a foundation for success in the BSN program.

Starting with the graduating class of 2019, the following readiness assessments must be completed after admission to the nursing program: HESI Admission Assessment (HESI A2) • passing standard for all component tests – 80% • HESI A2 tests include Reading Comprehension, Grammar, Vocabulary, Math, Anatomy and Physiology • Students who score below the 80% standard on any of these tests will be assigned to a readiness enhancement course and will require re-assessment after completing the assigned study plan.

Nursing students who have not met designated standards on required post-admission readiness assessment exams/tools will be required to take the readiness enhancement course - NURS 1032 Foundations for Critical Thinking in Nursing. This course is designed to provide structured academic support for students who demonstrate learning needs in reading, math and/or Anatomy and Physiology.

Student acceptance to the nursing program will continue if they have successfully: 1. Met all readiness assessment criteria either through achieving a passing score on initial assessment or completion of the requisite learning plan and successful re-assessment over the course of the sophomore year through the readiness course.

2. Completed all specified nursing pre-requisite courses.

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Starting with the graduating class of 2019, students may be assigned to a part-time progression sequence (which will include readiness courses) in the nursing major based on progress in meeting readiness criteria across the sophomore year.

For Junior and Senior Level Nursing Students: The goals of the readiness course for students engaged in coursework in the nursing major are to 1) address academic performance patterns that reflect potential barriers to successful achievement of BSN program outcomes and NCLEX-RN readiness and 2) provide a structured framework for academic support that is individualized to address student learning needs. The readiness enhancement strategies included in the course are designed to help students achieve success in nursing courses, on the HESI Comprehensive Exit exam, and the NCLEX-RN licensure exam.

The readiness enhancement course, NURS 2032 Clinical Reasoning in Nursing, is designed for junior and/or senior nursing students enrolled in nursing courses who demonstrate academic performance patterns which may include the following: 1. Course failure of N3651 Care of Adults/Older Adults and/or N4653 Care of the Critically Ill; 2. Test average below 75 in N3651 Care of Adults/Older Adults course; 3. Highest standardized Med-Surg specialty test score below 900 in NURS 3651 Care of Adults/Older Adults; 4. Inconsistent performance on formal clinical competency assessments; and/or, 5. Insufficient progress on readiness course goal attainment scales.

Students may need to repeat the readiness courses if learning goals are not fully met.

Readiness course credits may count toward semester credit requirements to obtain financial aid but DO NOT count toward total degree program completion credits.

Repeating a Nursing Course Students who need to repeat a BSN nursing course in order to complete the curriculum must: 1. Submit a request to repeat a course with rationale to the Associate Dean within two weeks

of course withdrawal or failure. Note: A failed course may be repeated only one time, except if the student was dismissed and readmitted back into UST-PSON. 2. Meet with course faculty to determine a remediation plan and preparation for repeating the course successfully.

3. Meet with UST-PSON Associate Dean (or designee) to review, revise, and sign the new altered progression plan.

4. The UST-PSON Associate Dean (or designee) will share the revised degree plan with the academic advisor and place a copy in the UST-PSON student file.

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Note: A failed course may be repeated only one time, except if the student was dismissed and readmitted back into UST-PSON. Leave of Absence Students who have begun upper division coursework and have taken an approved leave of absence for up to one year from UST: 1. May be required to audit or re-take courses as determined by the Associate Dean prior to being re-admitted or registering for the next level required course with a clinical component.

2. May progress in the nursing program on a space available basis after a letter of intent to reactivate in the program (due March 1 before the fall semester or August 1 for the spring semester) is received and approved by the Associate Dean.

Student Academic Grievance Procedure The UST-PSON faculty is committed to assisting students to achieve academic goals. The faculty of the UST-PSON believes that teaching and learning occur as a dynamic process involving the student, the teacher, and the environment. Faculty members strive to create a personal and professional environment conducive to student achievement and growth. Basic to this is a sense of respect and openness in the sharing of ideas, and in role modeling. If a student discerns that there has been any instance of unfair treatment or grading, a lack of communication, and/or a breach of School of Nursing or University policy, the student should follow the administrative chain of command (See Appendices: UST/PSON Organizational Chart) in order to seek a resolution.

1. Make an appointment with the faculty member that is involved, in order to discuss your perception of the issue or problem. It is a good idea to put this in writing in order to make you more comfortable, and to be concise and accurate in your presentation. This also allows the faculty member to respond to your concerns in an organized, pertinent manner and allows both of you to arrive at some conclusion and action plan.

2. If your issue cannot be resolved with the faculty, make an appointment with the Associate Dean. Present your case in the same manner as advised in #1. Design an action plan. If the issue is still not resolved, you can then make an appointment with the Dean of the UST-PSON. 3. If your issue is not resolved with the Dean, you would then present your petition or grievance to the Academic Committee at UST. 27

NOTE: The grievance process must be initiated no later than the first day of the next regular semester (fall/spring) following the semester in which the incident took place.

For complete details about the UST student academic grievance policy, please refer to the UST Student Handbook.

Ultimate authority for resolution of student academic petitions and grievances is vested in the Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) of UST. Students may appeal decisions of the Academic Committee to the VPAA. Dismissal from the UST-PSON Students who receive a grade below a C in any required nursing course may repeat the course one time only. Receiving a grade below a C in a course twice, or receiving a grade below C in any two nursing courses, will result in dismissal from the nursing program. Students who remain in good academic standing may consider selecting another major at the University.

Appeal Process Students who have been dismissed from the UST-PSON for academic performance and wish to appeal the dismissal should submit a letter of appeal to the Dean of the UST-PSON within one semester of receipt of the official dismissal notice stating: 1. the rationale why readmission should be considered; 2. the performance issues related to the dismissal; and, 3. a plan to assure that the performance issues will not be repeated if readmitted.

A faculty committee may be appointed by the Associate Dean to rule on student appeals. All decisions will be reviewed and finalized by the Dean prior to student notification.

Withdrawal Please see the UST Undergraduate Catalog for complete details on the withdrawal process and/or contact the Registrarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office. Failure to officially withdraw from the University may result in the awarding of an F in all courses for which the student is still registered. The USTPSON strongly advises its students to contact their advisors before beginning this process.

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Academic Integrity Academic integrity is the foundation of an academic community. It is an essential characteristic of the healing ministry of nursing and the values of the UST-PSON. The ANA’s Code of Ethics for Nurses describes integrity as “an aspect of wholeness of character: and links a lack of integrity to patient deception (Provision 5.4)”. Academic dishonesty is any action that is intentionally designed to give an unfair advantage to a student. (Refer to the UST Student Handbook.)

All students are responsible for reading and understanding the sections on academic integrity in both the UST Student Handbook and the UST-PSON Undergraduate Nursing Student Handbook (located on Blackboard). The faculty in the UST PSON are committed to fostering student academic honesty and to this end will adhere to and enforce the University of St. Thomas Academic Dishonesty Policy.

General Attendance/Participation Policies for the UST-PSON The following general guidelines/policies provide the student with expectations that reflect participative, responsible student learning behaviors: 1. Students will prepare as designated in the course syllabus for class, lab experiences, or clinical, and will actively participate in ALL teaching learning activities.

2. Students will be proactive in seeking faculty assistance in order to be successful in achieving course objectives.

3. Students will organize time to utilize the skills laboratory, computer software, the library, and internet resources for self-directed learning.

4. Prompt attendance at classes, clinical, and/or skills lab experiences as defined in the course syllabi. The student is accountable for communicating with course faculty in the case of any absence.

5. If absence from class, clinical and/or skills lab experiences is anticipated, the student should immediately notify the faculty in the course as soon as the student realizes there is a conflict that cannot be avoided. The student is responsible for the consequences of the absence. It is at the discretion of course faculty to establish the process for make-up exams/clinicals if the student has an excused absence.

6. It is the student’s responsibility to initiate a meeting with the appropriate course faculty, so that the plan for meeting the requirements for the course can be reviewed and approved by faculty. The faculty establishes expectations and the deadline for make-up work. All assigned work for each course must be completed to pass the course.

7. It is expected that examinations will be taken by the student at the time indicated in the syllabus, and that assignments will be submitted on the date indicated in the syllabus unless other arrangements are made in regards to students with Accommodation Letters.

8. Late work: Assignments are due at the beginning of the class period unless otherwise indicated. All late papers/assignments will have five (5) points deducted per day, this 29

includes weekend days. Due dates will be provided in the course calendar. Assignment guidelines and grading rubrics will be provided in Bb. 9. In clinical courses, students must achieve a grade of “A” (90-100%) on Dosage & Solutions Quiz in order to be allowed to start clinicals.

10. Incomplete Grades: The faculty may grant an incomplete if a student has not met all of the criteria for passing the course. Such situations may include students who have a documented emergency in the last few days of a semester.

NOTE: Students will not be admitted to a testing session once the test has begun and may receive a grade of zero for that test.

Cancellation of Classes and Clinicals Due to Extreme Weather Conditions The University of St. Thomas has taken steps to implement an Emergency Notification System (ENS) to communicate important alerts and emergency response information to students, faculty, and staff. In the event of severe weather, the University of St. Thomas will implement the following procedure to notify students, staff and faculty: The news media will be informed of class cancellations for the current day only. In addition, a message will be left on all campus voice mailboxes regarding school cancellation for the current day. If the University is closed for more than one day, follow-up calls will be made to the same news media list and voice mailboxes at the beginning of each subsequent day. The officially recognized media outlets include: Newspaper: • Houston Chronicle Radio: • KTRH 740 AM • KUHF 88.7 FM Television: • Channel 2 • Channel 11 • Channel 13 • Channel 26 • Channel 45 • Channel 47 For more information visit: https://www.stthom.edu/-ENS/UST-Alerts/EmergencyNotification-System-ENS.aqf.

Further information regarding the Emergency Weather Plan can be found in Section 20 of Policies and Procedures in the UST Student Handbook and Planner.

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Blended Learning Blended learning is an educational approach that assesses and integrates the strengths of faceto-face, mobile, and online learning to address a course’s educational goals. The use of multiple interactive learning environments outside the classroom makes interaction inside the classroom more effective and productive. All UST-PSON courses are offered in a blended learning or completely online format. These formats incorporate teaching and learning activities using online and/or face-to-face methods of instruction. Blackboard (Bb), a webbased management system, houses the main components of the courses. Course content, assignments, due dates, and quizzes will be provided through Bb. Students MUST use UST email to respond to the course instructors and papers about assigned topics. Students must participate in all online (graded or ungraded) activities.

Written Assignments/Plagerism The UST-PSON has the following policies regarding written assignments: 1. The Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (most current edition) is the required style manual that must be used in writing papers in the USTPSON. 2. Written work will be submitted on time to the designated faculty member and will be congruent with guidelines for the specific assignment.

3. Late Work: Assignments are due at the beginning of the class period unless otherwise indicated. All late papers/assignments will have five (5) points deducted per day, this includes weekend days. Due dates will be provided in the course calendar. Assignment guidelines and grading rubrics will be provided in Bb. 4. Plagiarism in a paper will make the paper unacceptable and will result in actions described in the section on Academic Integrity. Plagiarism and related integrity issues are defined as follows: a. Plagiarism: the representation of another’s work as one’s own. According to Webster’s Dictionary, “…to steal and pass off (the ideas of words of another) as one’s own: use without crediting the source to commit literary theft: present as new and original an idea or product derived from another source.” (Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary, Retrieved 4/5/12 from http://www.merriam-webster.com/) b. Collusion: collaborating with another student on assignments when directions state the work is to be done independently. c. Fabrication: making false claims, e.g., making up false data for reports or papers. d. Falsification: manipulating data such as research material, or omitting data in such a way that the results reported are not accurate.

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e. Cheating: fraud, trickery or violation of rules. In the academic setting, it includes but is not limited to: giving or receiving unauthorized help on assignments, copying tests, cheating on tests, or resubmission of a paper or project turned into one class and then used in another class to receive dual credit for the one work.

Resources That Assist Students To Prevent Plagerism • • •

UST Student Handbook, pp. 48 & 49 Doherty Library Plagiarism Tutorial http://libguides.stthom.edu/srch.php?q=plagiarism+tutorial Tutorial Services workshops, presented twice yearly. Dr. Constantina Michalos, Director. Phone 713.525.3878.

Any student charged with academic dishonesty may appeal the charge by writing a letter of appeal to the Registrar within three days of receiving the notice of the charge.

Exams/Quizzes Students who are not able to take a test when it is scheduled must notify the faculty member as soon as possible before the test period begins. The Course Coordinator will determine the make-up process, if any.

UST-PSON Student Classroom Exam Agreements: 1. Turn off all electronic devices (i.e., laptops, IPads, mobile phones, beepers, Apple watches, etc.).

2. Electronic devices are to be turned off and secured in a backpack or purse. They are not to be accessed or used during testing.

3. Calculators must be provided by the proctor.

4. All purses/backpacks, hats, books, papers, and other materials, except a pencil/pen, are to be removed from the desk and placed in the designated area.

5. Eating, drinking or talking to other students is not allowed.

6. You may use scrap paper provided by the proctor only; no other papers are to be on your desk during testing.

7. Looking around the room and at others’ tests/computer screens is not allowed.

8. You are not allowed to leave the testing area once the test has begun, except during HESI Exit Exams.

9. All paper tests and scrap paper must be handed to the proctor when you are finished and ready to leave the testing area.

10. Students must leave the testing area when they are finished and are not permitted to return to the area until all students are finished with the exam.

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11. Students may not copy, print, duplicate, or send by email any exam or part of an exam.

12. Consequences for cheating or altering test security may include a grade of zero for the test, failure of the course, or dismissal from the nursing program.

Blackboard or Web-based Testing 1. The only programs to be open for computerized tests are the test in Blackboard or the HESI web-based interface link.

2. The test can only be opened once. You will lose your answers if you do not submit the test when finished.

3. Students may not electronically copy, print, duplicate, or send any exam/part of an exam.

Standardized Testing In the interest of assisting students to achieve their professional goal of RN licensure, the UST-PSON has integrated external, nationally normed standardized tests (i.e., HESI) into the program of study.

Specialty HESI Exams as Final Exams HESI Specialty Exams will be utilized as a final exam for all clinical courses, comprising 25% of the course grade. It will be administered twice in all courses that have a HESI Exam evaluation component. HESI #1 will be administered approximately 1-3 weeks prior to final exam weeks to allow students enough time to do remediation for HESI #2. HESI Specialty Exam #2 will be a different version and will be administered during Finals week as a final exam for the course. As before, the HESI Raw Score (3-4 digit score) will be used for readiness and progression assessment planning while the HESI Conversion Score will continue to be used as the test grade score.

HESI Comprehensive Exit Exam The HESI Comprehensive Exit Exam is administered in the spring semester of the senior year prior to graduation as one of the requirements for NURS 4655 Transition. Students must achieve a score of 900 or higher in order to successfully meet this course requirement. The HESI Comprehensive Exit Exam will be offered twice during the spring semester. Students who are unable to achieve a score of 900 or higher after two test attempts will be assigned a grade of Incomplete and will work with faculty and the Director, SON Retention Services on a learning plan â&#x20AC;&#x201C;a Comprehensive Individualized Study Plan (ISP)--to support achievement of the required score.

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Requirements for BSN Program Completion The UST-PSON faculty is responsible for validation of the knowledge, skills and competencies required of the BSN graduate by the Texas Board of Nursing for entry into professional practice, to assure that they are able to deliver nursing care safely. The BSN degree is awarded by the University of St. Thomas. The Texas Board of Nursing confers RN licensure to graduates who have successfully completed an approved curriculum, the NCLEX-RN licensure exam, and met all other TXBON requirements for licensure eligibility. The BSN curriculum is built on the UST-PSON holistic philosophy and healing framework, which represents our unique lens on nursing, and integrates the required TXBON Differentiated Essential Competencies for the BSN Graduate, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing Essentials of Baccalaureate Education, and principles delineated in the American Nurses Association Code of Ethics. All courses in the BSN program of study incorporate these standards and contribute to the studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s opportunity to achieve BSN program outcomes and demonstrate readiness for professional practice through successful completion of the NCLEXRN licensure exam.

The standards and requirements for course completion and student progression delineated in this handbook are intended to prepare graduates for achievement of BSN program outcomes, success on the NCLEX-RN licensure exam, and a positive transition into professional practice at the novice level.

Steps in Achievement of Program Completion Requirements 1. Successful completion of all UST core curriculum and pre-requisite nursing courses.

2. Successful completion of all required courses in the nursing major with a grade of C or higher.

A number of requirements arising from the facultyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s responsibility to assure graduate competency for entry into practice are fulfilled as course requirements for the capstone course NURS 4655 Transition to Holistic Nursing Practice offered in the spring semester of the senior year.

Principles Guiding NCLEX-RN Readiness Planning and Assessment The readiness preparation strategies and readiness assessments required by the nursing faculty have been chosen based on careful analysis of the literature and published research on NCLEX-RN readiness and UST-PSON student performance patterns. The guiding principles include: 1. Students need content knowledge for all the domains represented on the National Council of State Board of Nursing (NCSBN) candidate test plan.

2. Because it is not possible to recall all potential content in all domains, students must be able to reason effectively about the clinical problems posed in exam questions.

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3. Students must develop/refine testing competencies for nationally benchmarked standardized exams as one component of NCLEX-RN licensure exam readiness.

4. NCLEX-RN licensure exam readiness requires consistent focus on preparation over time and must continue up until the graduate has successfully completed the NCLEX-RN licensure exam.

5. All students will meet the same readiness standard but readiness strategies and timelines must be individualized based on each studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s performance patterns.

6. The HESI Comprehensive Exit exam will be utilized as an indicator of NCLEX-RN readiness and guide for preparation activities for NCLEX-RN readiness.

Capstone Course Requirements â&#x20AC;&#x201C; NURS 4655 Transition to Holistic Nursing Practice 1. Completion of a Comprehensive Individualized Study Plan (ISP) This study plan (ISP) will a) be initiated no later than the start of the fall semester of the senior year (potentially prior to that if readiness needs are identified) and updated at the start of the capstone course in the spring semester of the senior year; b) be designed to address learning needs based on analysis of individual student performance patterns; c) be monitored by the Director, SON Retention Services; d) include referral to Academic Testing Coaches as needed; e) be adapted/modified as needed based on student progress; and, f) require achievement of the established passing standard/benchmark for the specific study resources used.

2. The ISP must be successfully completed in order to meet the NURS 4655 Transition course requirement and earn the course credit assigned to this activity.

3. Completion of a customized HESI exam at the start of NURS 4655 Transition will be utilized to refine ISPs. Students who achieve a score of 900 or higher will proceed with preparation for the HESI Comprehensive Exit Exam using individualized study plans.

Students who achieve a score below 900 will receive a plan adapted to address specific performance patterns with additional support from the academic support services staff/faculty and monitoring from the Director, SON Retention Services.

4. Successful Completion of the HESI Comprehensive Exit Exam The HESI Comprehensive Exit Exam is administered in the spring semester of the senior year prior to graduation as one of the requirements for NURS 4655 Transition. Students must achieve a score of 900 or higher in order to successfully meet this course 35

requirement. The HESI Comprehensive Exit Exam will be offered twice during the spring semester. Students who are unable to achieve a score of 900 or higher after two test attempts will be assigned a grade of Incomplete and will work with faculty and the Director, SON Retention Services on a Comprehensive Individualized Study Plan to support achievement of the required score.

5. Employment in Nursing Students are strongly encouraged NOT to accept employment offers until they have successfully met the HESI Comprehensive exam requirement.

Students who do not achieve a passing score on the HESI Comprehensive Exit Exam by the second testing opportunity will not be able to resolve the Incomplete grade and finalize the BSN degree until the end of the summer semester at the earliest. Nursing internships, residencies and job opportunities are available in early fall and new graduates have many employment options throughout the year. It will be to the studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s advantage to wait to accept a Registered Nurse (RN) position until he/she is certain of meeting BSN degree completion requirements. It is also strongly encouraged that job start dates be approximately six (6) weeks after the date of graduation to allow for UST degree posting and the completion of the AOG and Graduate Nurse (GN) Permit processes.

6. UST Policies for Degree Posting The UST Registrar sets the schedule for posting of degrees earned at UST. The university posts degrees at the end of each academic semester, three times a year. Opportunities for degree posting for students resolving incomplete spring grades will be at the end of the summer semester, the following fall semester, and the next fall semester.

7. Affidavit of Graduation (AOG) The BSN degree must be posted by the UST Registrar and all readiness plan requirements met before the AOG will be submitted by the UST-PSON. Students are strongly encouraged NOT to accept employment until they have passed the NCLEX-RN Exam.

The RN licensure application process for each student includes the submission of the AOG to the TXBON by the designated UST-PSON administrator. The AOG is a legal attestation submitted to the TXBON by the designated UST-PSON official affirming that the NCLEX-RN candidate has successfully completed a curriculum that meets the standards established by TXBON Rule 215.9, has earned the BSN degree, and met the requirements established by the faculty to prepare the graduate for the NCLEX-RN license exam and entry into practice. The BSN curriculum and the established NCLEXRN readiness requirements must be completed with a grade of C or higher and/or a 36

grade of Pass for Pass/Fail courses. The UST degree posting and AOG process could take up to 6 weeks after the date of graduation. Within 10 business days after the TXBON receives the AOG, the RN candidate will receive the Authorization to Test from PearsonVue (for the NCLEX-RN Exam) and the GN Permit is posted on the BON’s website. GN Permits are issued to first time RN Candidates for temporary authorization to practice as a graduate nurse, in the State of Texas, under the direct supervision of a registered nurse, pending RN licensure. Failure to pass the first-time attempt of the NCLEX-RN exam may result in job termination and might jeopardize the PSON’s standing with the TXBON. ACADEMIC POLICIES: CLINICAL PERFORMANCE Nursing Essential Functions “The ability to function independently in a clinical practice setting is essential to the role of professional nursing” (AACN, 2001).

Competencies necessary for the professional practice of nursing include the following functions which, with or without reasonable accommodations include, but are not restricted to, the specific examples listed below: 1. Sensory a) Visual acuity must be sufficient to observe and assess client behavior, prepare and administer medications and accurately read monitors; accurately read gauges and calibrated equipment having fine lines and read client records including graphs. b) Auditory acuity must be sufficient to hear instructions, requests, and monitor alarms at a distance of 30 feet and to auscultate heart tones breath sounds and bowel sounds.

2. Interactive a) The ability to speak, write and comprehend the English language proficiently. b) Communicate orally in person and by telephone. c) Speak and write with accuracy, clarity and efficiency.

3. Physical a) The ability to lift weights of up to 35% of recommended body weight independently. b) The motor ability necessary to manipulate equipment and supplies and to utilize palpation and percussion in client assessment. c) Sufficient manual dexterity to open doors, perform CPR, maneuver in client areas such as multiple occupancy rooms, access storage at heights of six feet, move a medication cart or emergency cart along a hall, manipulate sphygmomanometers and stethoscopes, electric and manual beds and electronic fluid pumps and thermometers.

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d) Be at a correct height to perform physical care activities such as bed bath, positioning, transferring, dressing changes, sterile technique, IV administration, placing a bedpan, emptying a urine drainage bag and applying protective clothing. e) Perform isolation techniques in a client’s room. f) Dispose of sharps in a client’s room. g) Operate client-lifting devices.

4. Cognitive a) Ability to learn, think critically, analyze, assess, solve problems. b) Set priorities and reach judgments. c) Communicate in a professional manner. d) Establish rapport with clients and colleagues.

Student Clinical Evaluations The faculty plan/guide clinical learning activities designed to assist students to meet course objectives/program goals. These learning activities teach students to apply nursing knowledge and skills in the direct care of clients. The ratio of faculty to students will meet TXBON requirements for clinical supervision. At the end of the clinical course, the student will evaluate his/her learning experience, the clinical instructor, the preceptor, and the clinical sites.

Students receive ongoing feedback on their clinical performance from their assigned clinical instructor and preceptors. Students are evaluated in each clinical course, using an evaluation tool based on the UST-PSON philosophy, the AACN Essentials of Baccalaureate Education, the ANA Standards of Practice, the ANA Code of Ethics for Nurses, TXBON Differentiated Essential Competencies for BSN Graduates, and the UST-PSON Undergraduate Program Outcomes. Effective clinical evaluation is an ongoing process—both formative and summative.

This process requires open communication between the faculty and student.

In courses with both classroom and clinical components, each clinical credit hour requires 3 hours of clinical or laboratory experience, a ratio of 1 credit hour: 3 clinical hours. The clinical component includes clinical experiences in various sites and/or laboratory experiences.

Clinical achievement is graded on a pass/fail basis. In courses, which contain both classroom and clinical components, the student must pass both components in order to receive a passing grade for the course. To pass a clinical nursing course, the student must earn a grade of C (7577) in classroom evaluation requirements and receive a satisfactory evaluation on the Clinical Evaluation Tool associated with each clinical course.

1. If a student receives a passing grade of C (75 – 77) or higher in the classroom component of the course, but an unsatisfactory in clinical, the student’s final course grade will be a C-, which is not a passing course grade.

2. If a student receives a grade less than a C- in the course, the student’s final course grade will be the actual grade earned in the course.

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3. Successful completion of a Nursing Clinical Course is defined as follows: a) Grade of “A” (90-100%) on Dosage & Solutions Quiz prior to starting clinicals. b) Weighted 75% test average. c) Completion of all course assignments and tests. d) Completion and submission of clinical assignments and written work. e) Achievement of a final course grade of C or higher (≥ 75) AND f) A satisfactory clinical evaluation. g) Final course grades at 0.5 or higher will be rounded up.

Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory Clinical Grading Clinical evaluation instruments are designed to give students very clear criteria that specify the performance expected of students enrolled in the clinical courses. Students use the evaluation instrument to engage in self-evaluation at mid-term and again at the end of each clinical course.

Clinical faculty will provide each student ongoing feedback throughout the course and will discuss their achievement in relation to clinical goals. Clinical faculty evaluates progress in learning and achievement of clinical objectives throughout the semester. Student and clinical faculty interactions about a particular aspect of care will initially focus on teaching and coaching, and then move toward evaluation of learning and competencies as the student gains more experience in a clinical area. Expected level of performance for any one behavior, such as medication administration or client teaching differs as the student advances in the curriculum. Clinical faculty notify/counsel students about any observed lack of progress or about a specific behavior and assist the student in formulating a plan to reach learning or competency goals. (See section on “Critical Clinical Behaviors below.)

“Critical” Clinical Behaviors Course faculty will indicate on each course evaluation those criteria that are related to safety and professional behavior, and are therefore, “critical,” i.e., must be achieved to pass the course.

Unsafe Incidents Definition: An unsafe incident is an event or situation in which the student demonstrates behavior or makes decisions which actually or potentially harm a client or violate standards of professional conduct. Although faculty attempt to prevent actual harm, designating the incident as unsafe emphasizes the seriousness of the incident.

Procedure: The unsafe incident is documented in writing, discussed, and signed by faculty and student. The Associate Dean is given a verbal and written report as soon as possible, and is responsible for notifying the School of Nursing Dean and filing the report in the student’s 39

advising folder. Student and clinical faculty collaborate to develop specific plans for remediation and a timeframe to complete the activities.

Examples of Unsafe or Unprofessional Behaviors: 1. Leaving the side rails down on an infant’s crib.

2. Error in administration of medication (5 “rights”).

3. Inaccurate recording or failure to record medication administration.

4. Inaccurate IV calculation/administration.

5. Failure to report changes in client’s condition or plan of care.

6. Inappropriate handling or touching of clients.

7. Coming to clinical under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.

8. Failure to observe isolation procedures.

9. Failure to adequately document and/or report nursing care given.

10. Inadequate preparation for assuming responsibility for client care.

11. Breach of confidentiality.

12. Unprofessional conduct such as making verbal or nonverbal reference to another’s race, religion, or sexuality in a condescending, inappropriate and disparaging manner.

13. Absence from clinical without notifying faculty prior to the beginning of the shift.

14. Leaving the clinical area without notifying faculty and without taking action to assure client safety in student’s absence.

The above list of common unsafe practices is not exhaustive. If a student engages in unsafe practices that are not on this list, the student will be held accountable.

Clinical Experience Attendance 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Students are expected to attend all clinical and laboratory experiences.

Clinical experiences will not be scheduled on University designated holidays.

Clinical learning is done concurrent with, or following classroom learning.

The clinical learning builds from, and on, learning of the theoretical concepts.

The student is accountable for communicating with the faculty in the case of any absence.

6. If a student is ill on a clinical day, he/she should first telephone the clinical instructor and the preceptor before he/she leaves home and secondly, inform the clinical area.

7. Faculty may decide not to allow a student to participate in the clinical for the following reasons: • Student is unprepared for patient care.

• Student appears to be either physically or psychologically ill.

• Student is unaware of his/her own limitations or fails to seek help when he/she recognizes his/her limitations.

• Student’s appearance is unprofessional.

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• Student appears to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Student arrives late for clinical experience.

8. Students are responsible and accountable for making up time and meeting learning objectives from missed clinical experiences.

9. The student is responsible for the consequences of the absence.

10. All students who are absent from clinical will be assigned to learning experiences as agreed upon with the clinical faculty to make up for missed clinical time.

11. Students who do not demonstrate competency in the clinical or course objectives at the conclusion of the make-up rotation will fail the course.

12. If faculty evaluating the student deem that the student will be unable to meet the course or clinical objectives because of the length or timing of the absence, the student and faculty member will consult with the Associate Dean about modification to the progression plan.

Medical Clearance for Missed Clinical Days for Health Reasons Purpose: To ensure the health and safety of the student and to adhere to the policies of the agencies where clinical teaching is provided.

1. Students who have a health care need that develops after enrollment in the nursing program, prior to, or during the clinical experience, which results in absences from a clinical course for more than one day, will be required to obtain written medical approval from his/her health care provider in order to return to clinical practice.

2. The written medical clearance must document the student’s ability to function as a student nurse, at full capacity, in the acute care or community health setting.

Medication Administration Prior to the administration of any medication, the drug, dose, route, time, and patient will be verified by a faculty member or faculty-identified clinical preceptor. All medication administration must be directly supervised.

NURS 2642 Foundations Nursing Practice students do not administer any medication of any type including via mouth, IV and injections, etc.

All UST nursing students: •

•

Do not Administer: o Transfusions including whole blood, albumin, blood plasma, and platelets. o Intravenous push medications o Chemotherapy medications o Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) treatments and/or Lipids infusions.

Do not perform intubations and arterial sticks 41

â&#x20AC;˘

NURS 2642 Foundations in Nursing Practice students do not administer any medications of any type, including via mouth, IV, and injections, etc.

The designated preceptors on a clinical unit may provide the necessary supervision for student drug administration.

Clinical faculty or preceptors may establish more stringent regulations for medication administration for certain situations, medications, or clients, such as insulin administration, administration of intravenous medications to pediatric clients.

Students who do not meet safety standards will be sent back into the simulation lab to practice medication administration by faculty. Unsafe medication administration may be grounds for failure of the course.

Student Transportation, Parking, and Client Transportation Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from clinical sites. Regardless of the mode of transportation, students should allow enough travel time so that they are on time for their clinical experiences.

Clinical facilities may provide designated parking areas and procedures for students. Students are responsible for any parking fees charged by agencies during their clinical experiences and are expected to observe all parking policies. The use of facilities by UST/PSON students is jeopardized when agency parking rules are violated.

Students and faculty are not permitted to transport clients in private vehicles.

Certification in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and First Aid All students must have current certification in CPR prior to the beginning of each clinical rotation. A student who cannot provide this documentation will not be allowed to attend clinical activities. This is a responsibility of the student and a requirement of both the USTPSON and the affiliating agencies.

To facilitate this, the UST-PSON will offer mandatory CPR training covering infant, child, and adult resuscitation and First Aid training at a minimal cost to the student prior to the start of the Nursing Program. This certification will be valid for the entire two years of the Nursing Program.

Clinical Rotation Requirements Students admitted to the UST-PSON will be subject to participation requirements established by health care organizations that host student clinical rotations, which include: 1. criminal background checks; 42

2.

3.

4.

5.

CPR certification; various titers; specific immunizations; and, personal health insurance.

These requirements may also include verification of identity and compliance with federal immigration laws.

The Texas Department of Health (TAC97.64) requires immunizations for all healthcare workers. Nursing students must complete the vaccinations and present their immunization records to PSON each time they are requested.

Upon admission to the Nursing Program, the student will be informed of the required documentation of titers and immunizations that must be provided prior to the start of clinical rotations. Additional health requirements may be mandated by some clinical agencies.

The following titers and/or immunizations are required: 1. MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella). (Titer required as evidence of immunity. If titer is negative, then two doses of vaccine will be required.)* ** 2. Tdap (1 dose) following completion of primary series with Td. 3. Hepatitis B titer. If titer is negative, follow up with Hepatitis B vaccine series or Hepatitis A/B vaccine series with booster.* ** (The third and final Hepatitis B shot is given six months after the first inoculation so it is imperative that enough time is allowed for completion of the standard series prior to clinical rotations. If time does not permit for the standard series, please take the fast track Hepatitis B series to ensure the shots are completed prior to clinical rotations.)

4. Hepatitis C Antibody test. ** (If test is positive, contact your physician for follow up.)

5. Varicella. (Titer required as evidence of immunity. If titer is negative, then two doses of vaccine will be required.)* ** 6. Influenza (flu shot). One dose annual fall/winter vaccine. Required annually.* 7. TB screen (PPO). Required annually. Alternately, a medical plan for follow-up if PPO contraindicated. ** *Texas Department of Health, Health Care Provider requirement, TAC 97.64 **Required by many clinical agencies. Additional health requirements may be mandated by some clinical agencies.

If for any reason, an immunization is contraindicated, the student is required to present a record of medical evaluation and recommendations. Students who have not met all preliminary clinical rotation requirements prior to the start date of courses will be dropped from courses.

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Students who can successfully combine satisfactory school attendance with pregnancy or with special health problems will not be prohibited from registration in nursing courses. The student must, however, fulfill the same attendance and course requirements as any other student. No special clinical assignments can be made. Students must inform the course coordinators and assigned clinical instructors of pregnancy or special health problems.

Drug Screening Drug screening may be required by some clinical agencies. The School will designate a company to do the drug screen and will not accept results from any company other than the one designated by the School. The student will pay the cost of the screening at the time of the testing. The School will not honor student requests to change clinical sites because of drug testing requirements. Students may be required to undergo drug screening on multiple occasions during clinical coursework.

A student who has a positive drug screen will not be allowed to participate in clinical courses.

The student will be required to complete, at the studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expense, a chemical dependency evaluation/treatment program, if this is recommended by a drug assessment. Any student with a positive drug screen will be suspended for a minimum of one calendar year and will be required to provide documentation of successful treatment prior to being readmitted to clinical courses. If readmitted, the student must be retested by the School-approved laboratory and have a negative drug screen. This testing is at the studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expense.

Malpractice Insurance Students taking any clinical courses have malpractice insurance that is provided by the University. The cost is included in course fees. Students must be registered for the course to meet this requirement.

Healthcare Insurance Some hospitals require that students doing clinicals at their facilities carry personal healthcare insurance. Therefore, all students must present documentation of healthcare coverage upon acceptance into the UST-PSON. Policy on Standard Precautions The UST-PSON concerned about the safety of its students, faculty, and the client population in the clinical setting. Based on the mandatory Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Occupational Safety Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines, the UST-PSON requires that both students and faculty observe blood and body fluid precautions when working with all clients in all settings (hospital, clinic, home, outside agency).

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Gloves are to be worn during an existing or potential contact with blood and/or body fluids.

Masks and goggles must also be worn when a threat of exposure to secretions exists (i.e., suctioning, emptying all drainage units or when there is a treat of splatter contamination).

Used needles will not be recapped and must be disposed of in a Sharps Container.

This is a shared responsibility for students and faculty. Faculty act as role models for the student population, and it is expected that faculty will set an excellent example for students to follow.

Blood Borne Pathogen insurance will be provided to the students from the UST-PSON. Professional Appearance Guidelines Students are responsible for following these guidelines in the UST-PSON labs and ALL Clinical Settings: 1. Jewelry: a) No rings except wedding rings. b) One pair of small earrings or earring posts only. c) No other jewelry, i.e. bracelets, necklaces, decorative chains. d) No facial or tongue piercing.

2. Any tattoo that is visible while the student is in uniform or professional dress must be covered during all clinical experiences.

3. NO denim, jeans, stretch pants, tight-fitting, low cut, bare midriff or torn clothing.

4. NO open toes or sling-back shoes or crocs.

5. Personal grooming: a) Hair should be clean, neat, and short or secured above the collar. b) Men must be clean shaven or have a mustache/beard that is groomed and trimmed. c) Nails must be clean and trimmed to prevent injury to clients. No nail polish or artificial nails per hospital policy. d) Any makeup should be minimal and conservative. e) Strict personal hygiene is an expectation. (No perfumes, colognes or scented after shave lotion should be used. Many people have allergies to fragrances.) f) Gum chewing is not appropriate in any professional setting.

6. Students must follow the clinical facilityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s smoking policies during clinical assignments.

Student uniforms must be free of odor of tobacco smoke.

7. Consumption of alcohol while in the UST-PSON uniform is strictly forbidden.

Uniform Policy Students are responsible for following these guidelines in the UST-PSON labs and ALL Clinical Settings: 45

Please note that the nursing student uniform is a uniform only and no part of this uniform should be worn for any purpose that is not related to clinical work or lab simulations. The student uniform is expected to be clean, pressed and professional in appearance at all times.

1. Red scrubs with UST-PSON patch on the upper left sleeve.

2. Standardized name pin and patches are available in the UST Bookstore.

3. Clean white or black shoes with adequate support should be part of the uniform and not for every day wear.

4. A plain white lab coat with the UST-PSON patch on the left upper sleeve may be worn over the scrubs top. The lab coat can also be purchased in the UST Bookstore.

5. Students should carry a note pad, pen, stethoscope and bandage scissors with them.

6. A watch with a second hand should be worn.

Community-Based and Mental Health Setting Attire 1. Professional dress clothing and name pin should be worn. (See above for specific details on professional appearance).

2. Students are expected to adhere to the agencyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dress code and role model appropriate dress for clients.

Name Pin 1. Should read: First Name Last Name (i.e. Mary Smith) 2. Placement: Worn on the front side of the scrub top. The location of the name pin may change with the clinical setting for patient considerations.

Uniform Patch 1. Placement: Left sleeve of the scrub top and lab coat. The patch may be pressed on or sewn on tightly to the material.

Simulation Lab Attire Students will wear red scrubs for all activities in the Simulation Lab. These scrubs may be purchased through local medical wear purveyors.

Students with Disabilities 1. Disability Nondiscrimination Policy: It is the policy of the University of St. Thomas not to discriminate on the basis of disability in admission and access to, or treatment or employment in its program or activities, as required by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, (involving disability discrimination), and the implementing regulations.

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2. Discrimination Grievance Procedures: If you believe you may have been discriminated against in violation of this policy, please refer to Section 9 of the UST Student Handbook.

3. Reasonable Accommodation Students who will require special accommodation or services must document the requirements and set an appointment with Counseling and Disability Services (C&DS) to review the nature and history of the disability as well as present concerns related to the professional nursing role and the clinical setting. C&DS can be reached at 713.525.2169 or Ext. 6953. All requests for reasonable accommodation are handled on an individual case-by-case basis.

GRADUATION, PINNING, COMMENCEMENT, AND LICENSURE Intent to Graduate Students who intend to graduate in May or August must do the following no later than February 15: 1. Meet with the Director, SON Retention Services to review their eligibility to graduate.

2. Following approval by the Director of SON Retention Services, students then log into their Celt portal and electronically apply to graduate.

For more information regarding the procedure, students should contact the Registrarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office at 713.525.2150 or registrar@stthom.edu.

Graduation Information Information regarding the ordering of cap and gown, other graduation related events, and diplomas will be distributed at a later date. Make sure you monitor both your UST email account and the UST website for detailed information.

Pinning Ceremony What is a Pinning Ceremony? ď&#x201A;§

This is an intimate celebration/reception with family and friends that is in addition to the commencement ceremony. Each student walks across the stage and receives their BSN pin from the Dean.

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

At the end of the ceremony, graduates stand as a class and recite the nursing pledge.

Students have expressed that this additional celebration is a meaningful and symbolic way to recognize their entry into their professional nursing career.

The ceremony is usually one to one and a half hours in length.

Often more personally meaningful than the graduation ceremony, it signifies your official initiation into the brotherhood/sisterhood of nurses. The ceremony is rich with symbolism.

The nursing pin is unique to each school, but the tradition is traced back to the Crusades of the 12th century. The modern ceremony dates back to the 1860s when Florence Nightingale was awarded the Red Cross of St George and in turn presented a pin to nursing graduates. By 1916, the practice of pinning new nursing graduates was standard throughout the United States.

The "Nightingale Pledge", which was actually written in 1893 by a committee at a training school for nurses in Detroit, has been dropped by most schools or replaced by a modified modern version expressing similar sentiments.

The UST-PSON adopted the following version of the Nightingale pledge.

UST Peavy School of Nursing Pledge As a graduate of the University of St. Thomas Peavy School of Nursing, I pledge myself before God and this assembly to live out my nursing life in this way: To place my patients in the best position to heal visible and invisible wounds, To know the patient’s story and meet it with compassion and love, To honor the mind, body and soul of every patient I encounter, To honor each patient’s dignity, privacy and choices, To ask God to give me the courage to advocate for my patients to the best of my ability, To care for myself, as the first step in becoming a healing presence for others, and, To serve as an instrument of healing to all the patients I encounter throughout my professional life.

Commencement The Commencement Ceremony will be held in May at a place and day to be announced by the Office of the Registrar. Students who completed all degree requirements as of spring of their 48

senior year and have completed an online graduation application will be invited to attend the University’s Commencement Ceremony. Students who receive an Incomplete grade, due a <900 score on the HESI-RN Exit exam, may participate in pinning and “walk across the stage” during commencement but their degrees will not be posted by the Registrar until after completing all course requirements. For additional graduation and commencement updates, please visit the Registrar’s website at https://www.stthom.edu/Offices_and_Services/Academic_Affairs/Registrar/Graduation/In dex.aqf.

Application to the State of Texas for an RN License To become a licensed RN in the state of Texas, students must apply to the Texas Board of Nursing. Information regarding the application process and fees may be found on–line at: http://www.bon.state.tx.us/olv/examination.html . The process is reviewed during the final semester of senior nursing courses. Graduates are eligible to apply for RN licensure in all 50 states and US territories. Graduates interested in licensure in other states should check with the relevant state board.

After successful completion of all required nursing courses, commencement, and posting of the degree by the Registrar’s Office, the dean of the UST-PSON, or designee, will complete and submit the AOG to the TXBON. Students may apply to the TXBON for licensure only after the TXBON informs them that the AOG was received. This process may take 3-4 weeks.

Nursing Jurisprudence Exam Candidates for initial RN licensing in Texas are required to successfully complete a nursing jurisprudence exam prior to taking the NCLEX-RN exam. The 50-item exam, as well as study resources, is located online at the Texas Board of Nursing website: https://www.bon.state.tx.us/olv/je.html.

Registration for NCLEX-RN© Exam In addition to applying for licensure to the Board of Nursing for the state in which the graduate wishes to be licensed, graduates from nursing programs must apply to take the NCLEX Exam. Thirty days prior to graduation, register with Pearson/Vue at https://www/vue/com/nclex. Pearson/Vue is the testing agency for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses. The requirements are reviewed in the final semester of senior nursing courses. Students are responsible for all registration fees. For additional information please visit the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) at https://www.ncsbn.org/nclex.html.

49

50

APPENDICES 1. PSON Organizational Chart 2. BSN Degree Program Course of Studies 3. Policies a. S.001 - UST-PSON Social Media Policy b. S.002 - Bounced Emails Policy c. S.003 - Authorization for Release of Information to Clinical Facilities d. S.004 - Nursing Course Syllabi Policy e. S.005 - Acknowledgement of Receipt of PSON Student Handbook and Nursing RN Licensure Information f. S.006 – Bloodborne Pathogens g. S.007 – Undergraduate Student Volunteering Opportunities 4. Texas Board of Nursing a. Texas Administrative Code - Standards of Nursing Practice b. Texas Administrative Code – Unprofessional Conduct

51

52

Organizational Chart December 2018

Dr. Poldi Tschirch Professor, PSON Dean

Dr. Angelina N. Chambers Professor, Associate Dean for SON Operations and Undergraduate Studies

Dr. Claudine Dufrene Assistant Professor, BSN Program Coordinator

Ms. Jackie Carlson Academic Program Coordinator

Dr. Kristina Leyden Assistant Professor

Ms. Nakisha Paul Director, Simulation Center & Educational Support Services

Dr. Karen O’Brien Assistant Professor

Ms. Lesley Paulsen Coordinator for Nursing Student Academic Services

Dr. Yvette Rolle Assistant Professor

Ms. Mary Donna Piazza Instructional Design and Multimedia Specialist

Ms. Christen Sadler Instructor of Nursing

Ms. Geny Moreno Director, SON Retention Services

Dr. Michael Sullivan Assistant Professor

Adjunct Faculty

Mr. Philip Frost Nursing Success Center Coordinator

Dr. Phyllis Jean Waters Professor, Associate Dean for Professional Advancement and Graduate Studies

Dr. Lucindra Campbell‐Law Professor, DNP Program Coordinator

Dr.Phyllis Beck Kritek Professor

Dr. M. Terese Verklan Professor

Adjunct Faculty

Ms. Silvia I. Dwyer PSON Operations Manager

Consultants

Ms. Marissa Walt Manager, Office of Professional Advancement and Nursing Graduate Studies

BSN Degree Program Course of Studies First Year Fall Semester

Spring Semester Credit

Course

Course

Summer Semester Credit Hours

Course

Credit Hours

Hours BIOL 2445 Human Anatomy & Physiology I, 2045 Lab* ENGL 1341 The Classical Tradition: Lit & Comp 1 HIST 1335 World Community I or HIST 2333 United States to 1877 PHIL 1311 Philosophy of the Human Person UNIV 1111 Freshmen Symposium

Total Credit Hours

4 hrs 3 hrs 3 hrs 3 hrs 1 hr 14 hrs of 14

BIOL 2446 Human Anatomy & Physiology II, 2046 Lab* ENGL 1342 The Middle Ages and the Renaissance: Literature and Composition II HIST 1336 World Community II or HIST 2334 United States since 1877 THEO 1301 Intro to the Sacred Scriptures

4 hrs

PSYC 3339 Human Growth and Development*

3 hrs 16 hrs of 30

Total Credit Hours

3 hrs 3 hrs 3 hrs

Second Year Fall Semester

Spring Semester

Summer Semester

THEO 2301 Teachings of the Catholic Church BIOL 2343 Patho/Pharm 1 BIOL 2333 Introduction to Microbiology* PHIL 2314 Ethics

3 hrs

NURS 2342 Health Assessment

3 hrs

3 hrs 3 hrs

3 hrs 3 hrs

COMM 1350 Found. of RelationshipCentered Care*

3 hrs

BIOL 2344 Patho/Pharm 2 ENGL 2312 The Modern World: Literature and Composition III MATH 2330 Introduction to Statistics for Nursing Research* Music/Drama/Art

Total Credit Hours ***

15 hrs of 45

Total Credit Hours ***

15 hrs of 60

Effective March 19, 2018

3 hrs

NURS 2642 Foundations of Holistic Nursing Practice

6 hrs

Total Credit Hours

6 hrs of 66

3 hrs 3 hrs

Third Year Fall Semester Course NURS 3351 Art and Science of Holistic Nursing NURS 3354 Holistic Nursing: Caring for the Community NURS 3651 Holistic Nursing: Care of Adults/Older Adults BIOL 2201 Nutrition (if Nutrition already completed UST core course as needed to make 80 hours)

Total Credit Hours ***

Spring Semester Credit Hours 3 hrs 3 hrs 6 hrs

2hrs 14 hrs of 80

Course NURS 3552 Holistic Nursing: Care of Children and Families NURS 3553 Holistic Nursing: Care of the Childbearing Family NURS 3252 Clinical Inquiry

Summer Semester Credit Hours 5 hrs 5 hrs 2 hrs

**Elective: Required Core Course or other elective, such as Span 4395-Clinical Conversational Spanish, as needed to make 95 credits.

3 hrs

Total Credit Hours ***

15 hrs of 95

Course PHIL 3313 Metaphysics, if needed, or other required core courses/electives not yet completed. **** THEO 2301, Teachings of the Catholic Church, if needed, or other required core requirements/electives not yet completed. **** (Optional: NURS 3391 Summer Externship Study Abroad)

Total Credit Hours***

Credit Hours 3

3

6 hrs of 101

Fourth Year Fall Semester NURS 4552 Holistic Nursing: Behavioral Health NURS 4653 Holistic Nursing: Care of the Critically Ill NURS 4251 Nursing Informatics

Total Credit Hours ***

Spring Semester 5 hrs 6 hrs 2 hrs 13 hrs of 114

Synthesis Course NURS 4356 Holistic Nursing: Foundation for Clinical Leadership NURS 4655 Transition to Holistic Nursing Practice

Total Credit Hours

Summer Semester 3 hrs 3 hrs 6 hrs 12 hrs of 126

Total Credit Hours for Degree â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 126 needed.

* Nursing Prerequisite ** as needed to obtain 126 total credit hours for graduation. Students should check with their advisor regarding this. *** Readiness Courses NURS 1032 & 2032, as required. May be taken in all semesters as needed. Does not count toward graduation. **** No summer coursework is needed if all core requirements, except Synthesis, are completed and student has 101 credit hours or more.

Effective March 19, 2018

Section Policy

Policy Title: Audience

Purpose

Peavy School of Nursing Policies S.001

Effective Revised Reviewed

01/15/2016

UST PSON Social Media Policy The information in this policy is intended for all nursing students.

The UST Peavy School of Nursing supports the use of social media to reach audiences important to the University such as students, prospective students, faculty and staff. The University presence or participation on social media sites is guided by university policy. This policy applies to School of Nursing students who engage in internet conversations for school-related purposes or school-related activities such as interactions in or about clinical and didactic course activities. Distribution of sensitive and confidential information is protected under HIPAA and FERPA whether discussed through traditional communication channels or through social media.

General Information

Social media are defined as mechanisms for communication designed to be disseminated through social interaction, created using highly accessible and scalable publishing techniques. Social media is commonly thought of as a group of Internet-based applications that are built on the ideological and technological foundations of the web that allows the creation and exchange of user-generated content. Examples include but are not limited to LinkedIn, Wikipedia, Second Life, Flickr, blogs, podcasts, RSS feeds, Allnurses.com, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and MySpace. While this policy may need to be modified as new technologies and social networking tools emerge, the spirit of the policy will remain the protection of sensitive and confidential information. Social media often spans traditional boundaries between professional and personal relationships and thus takes additional vigilance to make sure that one is protecting personal, professional, and university reputations. As students you will want to represent the University and the School in a fair, accurate and legal manner while protecting the brand and reputation of the institution.

Policy

1. Protect confidential, sensitive, and proprietary information: Do not post confidential or proprietary information about the university, staff, students, clinical facilities, patients/clients, or others with whom one has contact in the role of a UST School of Nursing student.

2. Respect copyright and fair use. When posting, be mindful of the copyright and intellectual property rights of others and of the university. For guidance, visit the Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Libraries site.

3. Do not use any UST marks, such as logos and graphics, on personal social media sites. Do not use USTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name to promote a product, cause, or political party or candidate.

4. Use of the School of Nursing marks (logos and graphics) for School sanctioned events must be approved (posters, fliers, postings) by Page 1 of 4

Section Policy

Consequences

Peavy School of Nursing Policies S.001

Effective Revised Reviewed

01/15/2016

administration.

5. Use of computers (PDAs, notebooks/tablets/laptops, etc.) during class shall be restricted to note taking and classroom activities. Use otherwise is distracting for not only the student involved in the activity but those in the immediate area/vicinity.

6. No student shall videotape professors or fellow students for personal or social media use without the express written permission of the faculty or fellow student.

7. Be aware of your association with UST in online social networks. If you identify yourself as a student, ensure your profile and related content is consistent with how you wish to present yourself to colleagues, clients, and potential employers. Identify your views as your own. When posting your point of view, you should neither claim nor imply you are speaking on UST’s behalf, unless you are authorized to do so in writing 8. Nursing students may not post any material that could potentially violate patient confidentiality on social media sites. a. ALWAYS follow the clinical site’s policies on social media and/or UST’s whichever is the most restrictive. b. At NO time shall patients/clients or any portion of their bodies be videotaped or photographed and/or displayed online. c. Restricted postings include but are not limited to protected health information, individually identifiable information (oral, written, or electronic) about a patient’s physical or mental health, the receipt of health care, or payment for that care. d. Online postings or discussions of specific patients should be avoided, even if all identifying information is excluded. e. It is expected that during clinicals use of PDAs and other devices employed for social media will be used only as authorized by faculty. If a PDA is combined with a cell phone, it is expected that the cell phone aspect of the device is silenced (disabled/airplane mode). f. Don't “friend” patients, patient’s family members or legally appointed decision makers on social networking sites. g. No personal phone conversations or texting are allowed at any time while in patient/client areas or in the classroom. If the student needs to respond to an emergency text or phone call during class/clinical, the student is asked to leave the area and respond as deemed necessary. h. HIPAA guidelines must be followed at all times. Identifiable information concerning clients/clinical rotations must not be posted in any online forum or webpage.

• Students may be subject to disciplinary action by the school and the clinical agency for comments that are either unprofessional or violate patient privacy. HIPAA regulations apply to comments made on social networking sites, and violators are subject to the Page 2 of 4

Section Policy

Peavy School of Nursing Policies S.001

•

•

•

• Considerations

•

• • •

•

•

•

•

Effective Revised Reviewed

01/15/2016

same prosecution as with other HIPAA violations.

Students who share confidential or unprofessional information do so at the risk of disciplinary action including failure in a course and/or dismissal from the program.

Each student is legally responsible for individual postings and may be subject to liability if individual postings are found defamatory, harassing, or in violation of any other applicable law.

Students may also be liable if individual postings include confidential or copyrighted information pictures, (music, videos, text, etc.).

There is no such thing as a “private” social media site. Search engines can turn up posts years after the publication date.

Comments can be forwarded or copied. Archival systems save information, including deleted postings. If you feel angry or passionate about a subject, it’s wise to delay posting until you are calm and clear-headed. Think twice before posting. If you are unsure about posting something or responding to a comment, ask your faculty. If you are about to publish something that makes you even the slightest bit uncertain, review the suggestions in this policy and seek guidance.

Future employers hold you to a high standard of behavior. By identifying yourself as a UST student through postings and personal web pages, you are connected to your colleagues, clinical agencies, and even clients/patients. Ensure that content associated with you is consistent with your professional goals.

Nursing students are preparing for a profession which provides services to a public that also expects high standards of behavior.

Adhere to all applicable university and clinical agency privacy and confidentiality policies.

You are legally liable for what you post on your own site and on the sites of others. Individual bloggers have been held liable for commentary deemed to be proprietary, copyrighted, defamatory, libelous or obscene (as defined by the courts).

Employers are increasingly conducting Web searches on job candidates before extending offers. Be sure that what you post today will not come back to haunt you.

Monitor comments. You can set your site so that you can review and approve comments before they appear. This allows you to respond in a timely way to comments. It also allows you to delete spam comments and to block any individuals who repeatedly post offensive or frivolous comments.

Don’t use ethnic slurs, personal insults, obscenity, pornographic images, or engage in any conduct that would not be acceptable in the professional workplace.

Ultimately, you have sole responsibility for what you post. Be Page 3 of 4

Section Policy

Peavy School of Nursing Policies S.001

Effective Revised Reviewed

01/15/2016

smart about protecting yourself, your and others privacy, and confidential information.

Submitted Date

Dr. Poldi Tschirch Dr. Angelina Chambers 1/15/2016

Page 4 of 4

Section Policy

Policy Title: Audience

Purpose General Information

Peavy School of Nursing Policies S.002

The information in this policy is intended for all nursing students..

To provide clear information regarding bounced emails. 

   



Date

01/15/2016

Bounced Emails Policy



Submitted

Effective Revised Reviewed

Students are responsible and accountable for insuring that they can be reached by email and voice mail so that they can receive information in a timely manner.

Students MUST regularly clean out their UST email trash cans so that they can receive important, and sometimes urgent, messages related to course content, meetings, clinical information including immunization requests, academic advising information, etc.

Faculty and staff will NOT send repeated emails to students if an “undelivered” or “bounced” email notice response is received.

Faculty and staff will NOT phone students to clean out their email trash cans if an email is bounced back.

Students are responsible for any information contained in an email that is bounced back and responsible for acting upon it as needed.

Deleting an email from either your personal email account (if your UST email is forwarded to it) or from your UST email account will NOT affect the amount of emails you may receive in your UST email accounts.

Only emptying your UST email trash can on a weekly basis will ensure that you may receive emails on a timely basis.

Dr. Poldi Tschirch Dr. Angelina Chambers 1/15/2016

Page 1 of 1

Section Policy

Policy Title:

Peavy School of Nursing Policies S.003

Effective Revised Reviewed

01/15/2016

Authorization for Release of Information to Clinical Facilities

Audience

The information in this policy is intended for all nursing students..

Purpose

To provide clear information regarding authorization for release of information to clinical facilities.

General Information





   

Many of the hospitals and clinics that we use for your clinical rotations require that we provide to them information about you such as, but not limited to, record of your immunizations, your UST email address and the last four digits of your social security number before they will permit you to have a clinical experience at their facility under the supervision of their staff and our faculty.

These facilities may also require that we attest that you have completed CPR training and hold a CPR card valid for the duration of the program, have undergone drug testing and criminal background checks, and have medical health insurance.

Some agencies require that we verify the status of your citizenship.

The documentation requirements vary from agency to agency and may change without notice.

We will, however, inform you of any such changes as they apply to you in a timely manner.

By signing the Authorization for Release of Information to Clinical Facilities, you are authorizing the University of St. Thomas Carol and Odis Peavy School of Nursing to release this information to clinical facilities where you will participate in clinical rotations.

 Submitted Date

Dr. Poldi Tschirch Dr. Angelina Chambers 1/15/2016

Page 1 of 1

Section Policy

Policy Title: Audience

Purpose General Information

Peavy School of Nursing Policies S.004

The information in this policy is intended for all nursing students..

To provide clear information regarding the nursing course syllabi policy. 



Date

01/15/2016

Nursing Course Syllabi Policy



Submitted

Effective Revised Reviewed

Students are responsible and accountable for reading, understanding, and following the requirements of each nursing course syllabus at the beginning of each new semester while enrolled in the UST Peavy School of Nursing.

Questions about course syllabi should be immediately directed to the course instructors.

By signing the Nursing Course Syllabi Policy, I acknowledge that I have been informed of the Nursing Course Syllabi Policy and will follow it accordingly.

Dr. Poldi Tschirch Dr. Angelina Chambers 1/15/2016

Page 1 of 1

Section Policy

Policy Title:

Peavy School of Nursing Policies S.005

Effective Revised Reviewed

01/15/2016

Acknowledgement of Receipt of PSON Student Handbook and Nursing RN Licensure Information Policy

Audience

The information in this policy is intended for all nursing students.

Purpose

To provide clear information regarding the PSON student handbook and RN licensure information.

General Information

The student: 



  

 

Submitted Date

Acknowledges that a copy of the University of St. Thomas PSON Student Handbook is received and that the student is responsible for reading the Handbook and adhering to the policies and procedures contained in it.

Understands that completion of degree requirements for the BSN does not guarantee licensure as a registered nurse. Eligibility for RN licensure in the state of Texas and other US states and territories is determined by the respective Board of Nursing.

Recognizes that Texas law prohibits certain persons from taking the licensure exam and practicing nursing.

Acknowledges that candidates must pass a Criminal Background Check before being allowed to take the NCLEX-RN Exam in Texas.

Reviews and understands the following in detail: o Licensure Eligibility Requirements o Criminal Background Checks o Petition for Declaratory Order o The NCLEX Exam Application Process o Nursing Course Syllabi Policy Receives specific information about the examination process, including the background check, which can be found at http://www.bon.state.tx.us/olv/examination.html.

By signing the Acknowledgement of Receipt of the PSON Student Handbook and Nursing RN Licensure Information, acknowledges that he/she has been informed of the PSON policies and will follow it accordingly.

Dr. Poldi Tschirch Dr. Angelina Chambers 1/15/2016

Page 1 of 1

Section: Policy #:

Peavy School of Nursing Policies S.006

Originated: Reviewed: Revised:

Policy Title: Bloodborne Pathogens Audience

This policy applies to the students of the UST Peavy School of Nursing.

Purpose

To facilitate prompt handling of situations that involve “needlesticks”, etc. that students may encounter in clinical settings.

Definitions

Bloodborne Pathogens: Bloodborne pathogens are infectious microorganisms in human blood that can cause disease in humans. These pathogens include, but are not limited to, hepatitis B (HBV), hepatitis C (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Needlesticks and other sharps-related injuries may expose workers to bloodborne pathogens.

Guidelines

• If you are stuck by a needle or other sharp or get blood or other potentially infectious materials in your eyes, nose, mouth, or on broken skin, immediately flood the exposed area with water and clean any wound with soap and water or a skin disinfectant if available. Report this immediately to your Clinical Instructor/Preceptor and seek immediate medical attention.

• We follow the procedures that are set by the institution in which the needlestick occurs.

• The PSON provides insurance coverage for the services, but not the actual healthcare service.

• The student can go to the University of Texas Health Services (UTHS) in the Medical Center located at 7000 Fannin, Suite 1620. Contact them at 713.500.3267.

• The student may send a reimbursement request to the Nursing Student Academic Services Coordinator.

Procedure

• Immediately report the incident to your Clinical Instructor/Precepter who will contact those at the clinical site who are in charge of these incidents.

• The Course Coordinator should be notified as soon as possible. Then the Course Coordinator will inform the Associate Dean of the actions that are taken.

Page 1 of 2

Section: Policy #:

References

Peavy School of Nursing Policies S.006

Originated: Reviewed: Revised:

Bloodborne Pathogens and Needlestick Prevention @ https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/bloodbornepathogens/index.html

Submitted for Approval by Date

Originated: 3/15/2017 Frequency of policy review: Every 2 years and/or as needed.

Revised:

Approved by: Dr. Claudene Dufrene PSON Faculty Council Chairperson

3/15/2017 Date

Dr. Angelina Chambers Associate Dean

3/15/2017_____ Date

Dr. Poldi Tschirch Dean

___3/15/2017________ Date

n:\academic affairs\school of nursing\admin\ccne february 2019\exhibits 2019\student handbook 2018-2019\s.006 bloodborne pathogens 3.15.17.docx

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Section: Policy #:

Peavy School of Nursing Policies S.007

Originated: 11/16/2017 Reviewed: Revised:

Policy Title: Undergraduate Student Volunteering Opportunities Audience

Purpose

Definitions

This policy and procedure applies to the BSN undergraduate students of the UST Peavy School of Nursing.

To delineate under what circumstances students may volunteer for community projects and/or with organizations in regards to types of activities and wearing UST insignia/uniform. This includes volunteer opportunities organized by National Student Nursing Association (NSNA) as well as non-course related mission trips.

Non-healthcare activities: Activities that can be performed by students that are not related to nursing functions (for example, sorting food donations, etc.).

Healthcare activities: Activities designated as nursing functions by the Texas Board of Nursing (for example: doing B/Ps, eye exams, height and weight measurements, giving injections, etc.).

Guidelines

According to the Texas Board of Nurses: 1. Students may volunteer for non-healthcare activities as a UST school club (NSNA) without faculty supervision and without an Affiliation/Program Agreement. They may wear UST-PSON insignia and uniforms. Examples of organizations are the Houston Food Bank, Loaves for Fishes, etc.

2. Students may volunteer and participate in healthcare (nursing function) activities as a UST school club (NSNA) only if there is a UST core or adjunct faculty providing supervision and an Affiliation/Program Agreement is in place with the sponsoring organization. Nursing function healthcare activities include doing B/Ps, height and weight checks, vision checks, injections, etc. In situations where there is an RN that is employed by the organization then the RN may act as a preceptor for up to two students at a time but only if the RN has a PSON Letter of Agreement to be clinical faculty for our students. Under these conditions, students may wear USTPSON insignia and uniforms. It takes anywhere from one to 12 months to create a new Affiliation/Program Agreement.

3. Students may volunteer as private citizens (not as a school club) and perform healthcare related activities under the auspices and liability of a sponsoring organization (including non-course related mission trips); Page 1 of 2

Section: Policy #:

Peavy School of Nursing Policies S.007

Originated: 11/16/2017 Reviewed: Revised:

however, they cannot wear any UST-PSON insignia or uniforms.

BON Enforcement does investigate cases of students wearing school insignia when they are not legally involved in school related clinical activities.

Procedure

1. Students should first check with the PSON-NSNA Club Advisor for approval to participate in volunteer activities with each organization before committing to the activity/event.

2. The PSON-NSNA Club Advisor will check with the Associate Dean (if necessary) to determine if the activity is in alignment with the established process/procedure and the PSON philosophy.

3. The PSON-NSNA Club Advisor will let the individual student or club president group know the decision regarding each event.

References

Submitted for Approval by Date

Per information received from the Texas Board of Nurses representative (Virginia Ayers) in a phone conference to Dr. A. N. Chambers on October 23, 2017.

Dr. Angelina. N. Chambers, Associate Dean and Professor Originated: 11/16/2017 Frequency of policy review: Every 2 years and/or as needed.

Revised:

Approved by: ___Dr. Claudine Dufrene_______________________________ PSON Faculty Council Chairperson Date Dr. Angelina Chambers Associate Dean Dr. Poldi Tschirch Dean

________________ Date ______________________ Date

n:\academic affairs\school of nursing\general\policies and procedures\s.007 student volunteer policy.docx

Page 2 of 2

TITLE 22 PART 11 CHAPTER 217 RULE ยง217.11

Texas Administrative Code

EXAMINING BOARDS TEXAS BOARD OF NURSING LICENSURE, PEER ASSISTANCE AND PRACTICE Standards of Nursing Practice

The Texas Board of Nursing is responsible for regulating the practice of nursing within the State of Texas for Vocational Nurses, Registered Nurses, and Registered Nurses with advanced practice authorization. The standards of practice establish a minimum acceptable level of nursing practice in any setting for each level of nursing licensure or advanced practice authorization. Failure to meet these standards may result in action against the nurse's license even if no actual patient injury resulted.

(1) Standards Applicable to All Nurses. All vocational nurses, registered nurses and registered nurses with advanced practice authorization shall: (A) Know and conform to the Texas Nursing Practice Act and the board's rules and regulations as well as all federal, state, or local laws, rules or regulations affecting the nurse's current area of nursing practice; (B) Implement measures to promote a safe environment for clients and others; (C) Know the rationale for and the effects of medications and treatments and shall correctly administer the same; (D) Accurately and completely report and document: (i) the client's status including signs and symptoms; (ii) nursing care rendered; (iii) physician, dentist or podiatrist orders; (iv) administration of medications and treatments; (v) client response(s); and (vi) contacts with other health care team members concerning significant events regarding client's status; (E) Respect the client's right to privacy by protecting confidential information unless required or allowed by law to disclose the information; (F) Promote and participate in education and counseling to a client(s) and, where applicable, the family/significant other(s) based on health needs; (G) Obtain instruction and supervision as necessary when implementing nursing procedures or practices; (H) Make a reasonable effort to obtain orientation/training for competency when encountering new equipment and technology or unfamiliar care situations; (I) Notify the appropriate supervisor when leaving a nursing assignment; (J) Know, recognize, and maintain professional boundaries of the nurse-client relationship; (K) Comply with mandatory reporting requirements of Texas Occupations Code Chapter 301 (Nursing Practice Act), Subchapter I, which include reporting a nurse: (i) who violates the Nursing Practice Act or a board rule and contributed to the death or serious injury of a patient;

(ii) whose conduct causes a person to suspect that the nurse's practice is impaired by chemical dependency or drug or alcohol abuse; (iii) whose actions constitute abuse, exploitation, fraud, or a violation of professional boundaries; or (iv) whose actions indicate that the nurse lacks knowledge, skill, judgment, or conscientiousness to such an extent that the nurse's continued practice of nursing could reasonably be expected to pose a risk of harm to a patient or another person, regardless of whether the conduct consists of a single incident or a pattern of behavior. (v) except for minor incidents (Texas Occupations Code §§301.401(2), 301.419, 22 TAC §217.16), peer review (Texas Occupations Code §§301.403, 303.007, 22 TAC §217.19), or peer assistance if no practice violation (Texas Occupations Code §301.410) as stated in the Nursing Practice Act and Board rules (22 TAC Chapter 217).

(L) Provide, without discrimination, nursing services regardless of the age, disability, economic status, gender, national origin, race, religion, health problems, or sexual orientation of the client served; (M) Institute appropriate nursing interventions that might be required to stabilize a client's condition and/or prevent complications; (N) Clarify any order or treatment regimen that the nurse has reason to believe is inaccurate, non-efficacious or contraindicated by consulting with the appropriate licensed practitioner and notifying the ordering practitioner when the nurse makes the decision not to administer the medication or treatment; (O) Implement measures to prevent exposure to infectious pathogens and communicable conditions; (P) Collaborate with the client, members of the health care team and, when appropriate, the client's significant other(s) in the interest of the client's health care; (Q) Consult with, utilize, and make referrals to appropriate community agencies and health care resources to provide continuity of care; (R) Be responsible for one's own continuing competence in nursing practice and individual professional growth; (S) Make assignments to others that take into consideration client safety and that are commensurate with the educational preparation, experience, knowledge, and physical and emotional ability of the person to whom the assignments are made; (T) Accept only those nursing assignments that take into consideration client safety and that are commensurate with the nurse's educational preparation, experience, knowledge, and physical and emotional ability; (U) Supervise nursing care provided by others for whom the nurse is professionally responsible; and, (V) Ensure the verification of current Texas licensure or other Compact State licensure privilege and credentials of personnel for whom the nurse is administratively responsible, when acting in the role of nurse administrator.

(2) Standards Specific to Vocational Nurses. The licensed vocational nurse practice is a directed scope of nursing practice under the supervision of a registered nurse, advanced practice registered nurse, physician's assistant, physician, podiatrist, or dentist. Supervision is the process of directing, guiding, and influencing the outcome

of an individual's performance of an activity. The licensed vocational nurse shall assist in the determination of predictable healthcare needs of clients within healthcare settings and: (A) Shall utilize a systematic approach to provide individualized, goal-directed nursing care by: (i) collecting data and performing focused nursing assessments; (ii) participating in the planning of nursing care needs for clients; (iii) participating in the development and modification of the comprehensive nursing care plan for assigned clients; (iv) implementing appropriate aspects of care within the LVN's scope of practice; and (v) assisting in the evaluation of the client's responses to nursing interventions and the identification of client needs; (B) Shall assign specific tasks, activities and functions to unlicensed personnel commensurate with the educational preparation, experience, knowledge, and physical and emotional ability of the person to whom the assignments are made and shall maintain appropriate supervision of unlicensed personnel.

(C) May perform other acts that require education and training as prescribed by board rules and policies, commensurate with the licensed vocational nurse's experience, continuing education, and demonstrated licensed vocational nurse competencies.

(3) Standards Specific to Registered Nurses. The registered nurse shall assist in the determination of healthcare needs of clients and shall: (A) Utilize a systematic approach to provide individualized, goal-directed, nursing care by: (i) performing comprehensive nursing assessments regarding the health status of the client; (ii) making nursing diagnoses that serve as the basis for the strategy of care; (iii) developing a plan of care based on the assessment and nursing diagnosis; (iv) implementing nursing care; and (v) evaluating the client's responses to nursing interventions; (B) Delegate tasks to unlicensed personnel in compliance with Chapter 224 of this title, relating to clients with acute conditions or in acute are environments, and Chapter 225 of this title, relating to independent living environments for clients with stable and predictable conditions.

(4) Standards Specific to Registered Nurses with Advanced Practice Authorization.

Standards for a specific role and specialty of advanced practice nurse supersede standards for registered nurses where conflict between the standards, if any, exist. In addition to paragraphs (1) and (3) of this subsection, a registered nurse who holds authorization to practice as an advanced practice nurse (APN) shall: (A) Practice in an advanced nursing practice role and specialty in accordance with authorization granted under Board Rule Chapter 221 of this title (relating to practicing in an APN role; 22 TAC Chapter 221) and standards set out in that chapter.

(B)Prescribe medications in accordance with prescriptive authority granted under Board Rule Chapter 222 of this title (relating to APNs prescribing; 22 TAC Chapter 222) and standards set out in that chapter and in compliance with state

and federal laws and regulations relating to prescription of dangerous drugs and controlled substances.

Source Note: The provisions of this ยง217.11 adopted to be effective September 28, 2004, 29 TexReg 9192; amended to be effective November 15, 2007, 32 TexReg 8165

Texas Administrative Code TITLE 22 PART 11 CHAPTER 217 RULE ยง217.12

EXAMINING BOARDS TEXAS BOARD OF NURSING LICENSURE, PEER ASSISTANCE AND PRACTICE Unprofessional Conduct

The unprofessional conduct rules are intended to protect clients and the public from incompetent, unethical, or illegal conduct of licensees. The purpose of these rules is to identify unprofessional or dishonorable behaviors of a nurse which the board believes are likely to deceive, defraud, or injure clients or the public. Actual injury to a client need not be established. These behaviors include but are not limited to: (1) Unsafe Practice--actions or conduct including, but not limited to: (A) Carelessly failing, repeatedly failing, or exhibiting an inability to perform vocational, registered, or advanced practice nursing in conformity with the standards of minimum acceptable level of nursing practice set out in Rule 217.11.

(B) Carelessly or repeatedly failing to conform to generally accepted nursing standards in applicable practice settings; (C) Improper management of client records; (D) Delegating or assigning nursing functions or a prescribed health function when the delegation or assignment could reasonably be expected to result in unsafe or ineffective client care; (E) Accepting the assignment of nursing functions or a prescribed health function when the acceptance of the assignment could be reasonably expected to result in unsafe or ineffective client care; (F) Failing to supervise the performance of tasks by any individual working pursuant to the nurse's delegation or assignment; or (G) Failure of a clinical nursing instructor to adequately supervise or to assure adequate supervision of student experiences.

(2) Failure of a chief administrative nurse to follow appropriate and recognized standards and guidelines in providing oversight of the nursing organization and nursing services for which the nurse is administratively responsible.

(3) Failure to practice within a modified scope of practice or with the required accommodations, as specified by the board in granting a coded license or any stipulated agreement with the board.

(4) Careless or repetitive conduct that may endanger a client's life, health, or safety.

Actual injury to a client need not be established.

(5) Inability to Practice Safely--demonstration of actual or potential inability to practice nursing with reasonable skill and safety to clients by reason of illness, use of alcohol, drugs, chemicals, or any other mood-altering substances, or as a result of any mental or physical condition.

(6) Misconduct--actions or conduct that include, but are not limited to: (A) Falsifying reports, client documentation, agency records or other documents; (B) Failing to cooperate with a lawful investigation conducted by the board; (C) Causing or permitting physical, emotional or verbal abuse or injury or neglect to the client or the public, or failing to report same to the employer, appropriate legal authority and/or licensing board; (D) Violating professional boundaries of the nurse/client relationship including but not limited to physical, sexual, emotional or financial exploitation of the client or the client's significant other(s); (E) Engaging in sexual conduct with a client, touching a client in a sexual manner, requesting or offering sexual favors, or language or behavior suggestive of the same; (F) Threatening or violent behavior in the workplace; (G) Misappropriating, in connection with the practice of nursing, anything of value or benefit, including but not limited to, any property, real or personal of the client, employer, or any other person or entity, or failing to take precautions to prevent such misappropriation; (H) Providing information which was false, deceptive, or misleading in connection with the practice of nursing; (I)

Failing to answer specific questions or providing false or misleading answers that would have affected the decision to license, employ, certify or otherwise utilize a nurse; or

(J) Offering, giving, soliciting, or receiving or agreeing to receive, directly or indirectly, any fee or other consideration to or from a third party for the referral of a client in connection with the performance of professional services.

(7) Failure to repay a guaranteed student loan, as provided in the Texas Education Code ยง57.491, or pay child support payments as required by the Texas Family Code ยง232.001, et seq.

(8) Drug Diversion--diversion or attempts to divert drugs or controlled substances.

(9) Dismissal from a board-approved peer assistance program for noncompliance and referral by that program to the BNE. (10) Other Drug Related--actions or conduct that include, but are not limited to: (A) Use of any controlled substance or any drug, prescribed or unprescribed, or device or alcoholic beverages while on duty or on call and to the extent that such use may impair the nurse's ability to safely conduct to the public the practice authorized by the nurse's license; (B) Falsification of or making incorrect, inconsistent, or unintelligible entries in any agency, client, or other record pertaining to drugs or controlled substances; (C) Failing to follow the policy and procedure in place for the wastage of medications at the facility where the nurse was employed or working at the time of the incident(s); (D) A positive drug screen for which there is no lawful prescription; or (E) Obtaining or attempting to obtain or deliver medication(s) through means of misrepresentation, fraud, forgery, deception and/or subterfuge.

(11) Unlawful Practice--actions or conduct that include, but are not limited to: (A) Knowingly aiding, assisting, advising, or allowing an unlicensed person to engage in the unlawful practice of vocational, registered or advanced practice nursing; (B) Violating an order of the board, or carelessly or repetitively violating a state or federal law relating to the practice of vocational, registered or advanced practice nursing, or violating a state or federal narcotics or controlled substance law; (C) Knowingly aiding, assisting, advising, or allowing a nurse under Board Order to violate the conditions set forth in the Order; or

(D) Failing to report violations of the Nursing Practice Act and/or the Board's rules and regulations.

(12) Leaving a nursing assignment, including a supervisory assignment, without notifying the appropriate personnel.

(13) Criminal Conduct--including, but not limited to, conviction or probation, with or without an adjudication of guilt, or receipt of a judicial order involving a crime or criminal behavior or conduct that could affect the practice of nursing.

SOURCE NOTE: THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ยง217.12 ADOPTED TO BE EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 28, 2004, 29 TEXREG 9192