05-06 Graduate Student Handbook.pdf - University of Kentucky

Technical Standards - University of Kentucky College of Nursing
http://www.mc.uky.edu/nursing/StuResources/grads/handbook2005-06/tech_stand.htm
Page 1 of 3
2/23/2011
Technical Standards
The mission of the University of Kentucky College of Nursing, as it relates to education, is to
prepare students for the professional practice of nursing through programs of undergraduate
and graduate education. Graduates of the College must demonstrate competencies in
intellectual, social, and physical tasks that together represent the fundamentals of nursing.
Applicants and students are judged not only on their previous scholastic abilities and
achievements, but also on their intellectual, emotional, and physical capacities to fulfill the
requirements of a program of study.
Standards of admission are established by the faculty. Faculty groups recommend admission of
applicants based on information contained in the application, and where applicable, letters of
recommendation and personal interviews.
Nationally recognized organizations that accredit the programs of the College require a broad
development of knowledge, specialized skills, and behaviors that prepare students to deliver
general or advanced nursing care. Courses in nursing and the basic sciences provide a core of
knowledge necessary for clinical practice. Clinical courses include diverse experiences in both
inpatient and outpatient settings. Together these lead to a level of competence expected for
practice.
The following technical standards explain attributes necessary to complete the educational
programs in nursing. These standards describe the essential functions students must
demonstrate and are requirements for entrance, continuation, and graduation.
The College will consider any applicant who demonstrates the ability to perform, or to learn to
perform, the skills listed here. An applicant is not required to disclose the nature of any
disability, but an applicant with concerns about these technical requirements is strongly
encouraged to discuss the issue with the assistant dean for the particular program. If
appropriate, and upon request from the applicant, reasonable accommodations for a disability
will be provided.
Certain chronic or recurrent illnesses and problems that could interfere with patient care or
safety may be incompatible with nursing education or practice. Some illnesses may lead to a
higher likelihood of student absences and should be carefully considered. Deficiencies in
knowledge, judgment, integrity, or professional attitude may jeopardize patient care, and as a
result become grounds for course failure and possible dismissal from a nursing program.
Students must possess aptitude and abilities in five areas: observation; communication;
sensory and motor coordination and function; conceptualization, integration, and
quantification; and behavioral and social skills, abilities, and aptitude.
Observation
Students must be able to observe a patient accurately, at a distance and close-up, noting
nonverbal as well as verbal signals. Specific visual tasks include, but are not limited to: