Title of Effective Practice: - California Postsecondary Education ...

Direct Connection to Policy Area 4 of The Illinois Commitment
Significant Other Support Group
Sauk Valley Community College
What issue or need is addressed by the effective practice?
Student retention is an issue for the majority of nursing programs throughout the nation. Attrition rates for most
nursing programs average 35-50%, with students leaving at various stages throughout the curriculum. SVCC’s
attrition rate is 30-35% on average. This is at the low end of the national norm, but it still is cause for concern
as we wish to foster student goal completion, which is ultimately employability.
Description of the effective practice:
This program was created from a strong desire to foster an atmosphere of support among all parties involved
with our nursing students as we believe nursing school is a “family affair.” The program provides the student
and the significant other of their choice with information on:
• Demands of the nursing program
• Four Categories of Support: Attitudinal, Financial, Behavioral and Emotional
• Goal Setting
• Stress Management
• Critical Thinking
• Family Communication
These various topics are presented at four key times during the first year of the nursing program. This program
is paired with a mentoring program.
How does this practice achieve sustainability?
The dean of health and sciences, nursing faculty and SVCC administration are committed to this program. The
program is orchestrated by the dean. The nursing faculty encourage student involvement in the program and
assist with implementation. SVCC administration has budgeted for and maintained funds for this program.
What are the results/measurable outcomes?
• 60% or greater of the ADN Freshman and LPN nursing students and their significant other will attend two
or more scheduled meetings.
• 60% of the significant other support persons will be able to identify at least 3 ways they can provide
attitudinal, financial, emotional or behavioral support.
• 60% or greater of the significant other support persons and their nursing student will document the use of 3
or more interventions of support.
Surveys were completed to assess the achievement of these outcomes. The surveys were not completed by all
students and the questions were not specific enough to assist with measurability. The format of the tool will be
modified to aide with future assessment and the tool will be distributed to all students. Of the surveys
completed, it was evident that the program impacted the family’s goal achievement and communication. It is
too early in the program to determine if this has aided student retention.
Contact Information
Name: Janet Lynch
Email: lynchj@svcc.edu
Phone: (815) 288-5511
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