Nursing Student Handbook - MiraCosta College

MiraCosta CollegeNursing DepartmentAssociate Degree Nursing ProgramNursing Student HandbookRevised 5/2011Academic Year2011 - 2012

Table of ContentsSection Item Page1. Introduction 4Letter of Welcome 5Mission and Vision Statements (College/Division/Department) 6Nursing Code of Ethics 82. Program Foundation 9Nursing Programs: Statement of Purpose and Goals 10Nursing Programs: Philosophy Statement 11Conceptual Framework and Schematic 13Hierarchy of Human Needs Schematic 153. Program Overview 16Program Information 17Description of Programs Offered 17Completion with the Associate Degree 17Completion with the 30-Unit Option 17Transfer and Challenge 17Accrediting Agency 18Clinical Facilities 18Background Checks 19ADN Curriculum Plan 20Book List 21Program Outcomes 22Table: Relationship of Student Competencies to Program Outcomes and“Standards of Competent Performance” as set by BRN4. General Information, Requirements, and Resources 27First Class Meeting Attendance 28Changes in Student Information 28Student Participation in Government 28Commencement and Completion Ceremonies 28Dosage Competency Pretests 28Examination Issues 29Learning Disabilities 29Student Supervision 29Beepers and Cellular Telephones 29Social Networking Sites 29241

Section Item PagePatient / Client Confidentiality (HIPAA) 30Background Checks 31Health Requirements and Health Coverage 31Functional Abilities Essential for Nursing Practice/Licensure 31Student Accident / Injury 34Patient Accident / Error 34Work-Related Injury Referral (Please see Student Accident/Injury above) 35Internet Access 37Classroom Etiquette 37Helpful Campus Resources 385. Expectations and Standards 39Nursing Student Conduct / Faculty Responsibility 40Standards of Student Appearance in the Clinical Setting 42Student Uniform Requirements 436. Student Policies 44Attendance 45Grading 47General Information 47Written Assignments 48Portfolio 48Examinations and Quizzes 48ATI Testing 49Clinical Performance 50Course Challenge Policy 51Unsafe / Unacceptable Performance Criteria 52Disciplinary Actions 56Faculty Expectations Regarding Honesty 56Disciplinary Measures 56Student Issue/Complaint 56Grievance Information 57Probationary Status / Intervention Contracts 57Conditions of Academic Probation 57Conditions of Clinical Probation / Intervention Contract 57Readmission Policy 59Priority Determination for Readmission 602

Section Item PageBackground Check / Drug Screen Policy 61Impaired Nursing Student Policy and Intervention Contract 63College Policy: Academic Integrity and Academic Integrity Report 667. Guidelines and Regulations 68Medication Administration Guidelines and Procedure: “Rights” 69Nursing Student Incident Form (Sample) 70Plagiarism and Academic Work: A Clarification 71ATI Proctored Assessment Descriptors 72Signature Acknowledgement Page 743

Section 1:INTRODUCTION4

Nursing and Allied Health DepartmentAdministrative OfficeDear Associate Degree Nursing Student:It is our pleasure to welcome you to the Nursing Programs at MiraCosta College. We hopethat the following information will be of assistance to you as you begin your studies. It is thesincere hope of all of us that you succeed in this program and we want to do everything wecan to make this possible.This handbook provides valuable background information, expectations, and procedures.Here you will find the policies that govern nursing student enrollment and progressionthrough the nursing curriculum. You are responsible for understanding the informationcontained in the Nursing Student Handbook and abiding by the policies presented in it. Ifyou have any questions, do not hesitate to contact any Nursing Department faculty members.The handbook is updated yearly and you are responsible for abiding by the most currenthandbook.We look forward to having you with us as a student at MiraCosta College. Thank you for theeffort and sacrifices you have made to achieve enrollment in the Associate Degree RegisteredNursing Program.Sincerely,The Nursing FacultyMiraCosta College5

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthThe Nursing and Allied Health Department is one of a cluster of academic departments in theCareer and Technical Education arm of the Instructional Services Division of MiraCostaCollege. The following mission statements and outcomes reflect consistency across theorganization of academic philosophy, goals, and distribution of resources.MiraCosta CollegeMission, Vision & Values StatementMission Statement:MiraCosta College provides quality instruction and support services that allow students topursue and achieve their goals. The college responds to the needs of its students andcommunity by creating new programs, expanding existing programs, and implementinginnovative approaches to teaching and learning that prepare students to be productive citizensin a diverse and dynamic world.Vision:MiraCosta College seeks to empower students to realize their unique potential. The collegestrengthens the intellectual, economic, social, and cultural life of the community through itsinnovative and diverse programs offered in an accessible, caring and supportive environment.The college meets the challenges of growth and change while adhering to ethical businessand responsible environmental principles.Core Values:MiraCosta College demonstrates and ongoing commitment to these core values:• Educational excellence• Equality and accessibility• Ethical leadership• Inclusive environment• Adaptability and innovation• Collegial governance• Environmental awareness6

Career and Technical EducationMission Statement & Program OutcomesMission Statement:Career and Technical Education prepares students for successful employment, lifeenrichment and future learning.Program Outcomes:• Technical skills (discipline-specific technology/technical competency/currency)• Application of discipline skills (theoretical knowledge/subject matter mastery/observation skills• Critical thinking and problem solving (assessment skills), communication• Professional behavior (professional practices/ethics/teamwork)March 10, 2006Nursing and Allied Health Department/Associate Degree ProgramMission Statement and Program OutcomesMission:The mission of the Nursing Program is to provide the education necessary for students tobecome competent, safe and caring nurses throughout the community. The program alsoprovides the foundation for life-long learning and individual development.Program Outcomes:• At least 80% of entering students complete the nursing program within three years(graduation rate).• At least 85% of graduates past the NCLEX-RN as first time writers.• At least 85% of employers rate graduates as average or above average indemonstrating nursing process, providing safe care and behaving in a caring andprofessional manner.• At least 85% of graduates rate their education at MCC as above average in managingand providing care to patients.• At least 75% of graduates acquire their first RN position within one year ofgraduation.4/20067

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthThe MiraCosta College Nursing Program is approved and governed by regulations, standardsof conduct, and competency expectations set forth in law and by national professionalorganizations. The Nursing Practice Act is the body of California law that mandates theBoard of Registered Nursing to set out the scope of practice and responsibilities for RNs. ThePractice Act is located in the California Business and Professions Code starting with Section2700. Regulations which specify the implementation of the law appear in the California Codeof Regulations. (www.rn.ca.gov)The Code of Ethics for Nurses was developed by the American Nurses’ Association as aguide for carrying out nursing responsibilities in a manner consistent with quality in nursingcare and the ethical obligations of the profession.American Nurses’ Association Code of Ethics, July 20011. The nurse, in all professional relationships, practices with compassion and respect forthe inherent dignity, worth and uniqueness of every individual, unrestricted byconsiderations of social or economic status, personal attributes, or the nature of healthproblems.2. The nurse’s primary commitment is to the patient, whether an individual, family,group, or community.3. The nurse promotes, advocates for, and strives to protect the health, safety, and rightsof the patient.4. The nurse is responsible and accountable for individual nursing practice anddetermines the appropriate delegation of tasks consistent with the nurse’s obligationto provide optimum patient care.5. The nurse owes the same duties to self as to others, including the responsibility topreserve integrity and safety, to maintain competence, and to continue personal andprofessional growth.6. The nurse participates in establishing, maintaining, and improving healthcareenvironments and conditions of employment conducive to the provision of qualityhealth care and consistent with the values of the profession through individual andcollective action.7. The nurse participates in the advancement of the profession through contributions topractice, education, administration, and knowledge development.8. The nurse collaborates with other health professionals and the public in promotingcommunity, national, and international efforts to meet health needs.9. The profession of nursing, as represented by associations and their members, isresponsible for articulating nursing values, for maintaining the integrity of theprofession and its practice, and for shaping social policy.American Nurses Association, Code of Ethics for Nurses with Interpretive Statements, ©2001 By American Nurses Association.8

Section 2:PROGRAM FOUNDATIONS9

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthStatement of Program Purpose and GoalsThe purpose of the MiraCosta registered nursing programs is to prepare entry level registerednurses. The generic two-year program is designed for students with no or limited healthcareexperience. The curriculum also provides practicing Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs)access to RN licensure through the Career Ladder Program. These programs are designed toequip the graduate with skills and abilities to function safely within the legal framework ofnursing as set forth by the State of California (Department of Consumer Affairs; Board ofRegistered Nursing). Successful completion of either program establishes eligibility to applyfor California licensure and the national licensing examination as a registered nurse.The RN and LVN-RN programs are career pathways to attaining and achieving individualgoals and potential in nursing. These pathways are designed to make available to the studentthe essential knowledge, skills and abilities within his or her scope of practice needed toserve as a foundation for success and excellence in nursing practice.The MiraCosta College nursing faculty members are dedicated to promoting the developmentof graduates who are committed to lifelong learning and who are an asset to the nursingprofession, their community, and society at large.In the pursuit of these purposes the faculty endeavor, throughout each program pathway, to:1. participate in the process of counseling and assisting interested students preparingfor admission to a program;2. recruit, admit, and retain qualified applicants from a diverse community whoprogress through their program in a timely manner;3. maintain uniformly and consistently high standards of academic achievement.4. provide students with a variety of resources to promote success;5. provide and maintain an integrated, current, and consistent curriculum whichmeets the needs of the student, graduate, faculty, consumer, and health careprovider;6. maintain Department protocols that promote student expression and participationin class and program governance;7. produce graduates who attain licensure, apply principles of ethics and research totheir practice, and demonstrate entry-level competence in initial employment;8. remain current as a faculty in nursing practice and community issues, adultteaching and learning practices, and technological advances; and9. foster student and graduate commitment to excellence in practice and life- longlearning; and,10. encourage and support graduates to continue their education thrugh baccalaureateand graduate coursework.6/2006; 9/201010

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthPhilosophy StatementThe philosophy statement of the Nursing Programs of MiraCosta Community Collegerepresents a consensus of nursing faculty beliefs. It incorporates beliefs relative to: 1)nursing; its practice and instruction, 2) people and the patients/clients that the graduates willserve, 3) health, and 4) students engaged in acquiring the skills and knowledge inherent in itspractice.The nurse is a critical member of the healthcare team. Nursing practice and nursingeducation will continue to evolve over time to meet the changing healthcare needs of society.Nursing care is delivered by varying levels of practitioners with corresponding educationalpreparation, certificates, and licenses, each with regulated scopes of practice. The varyinglevels of preparation serve as entry points into a career path and access to a nursing careerladder.The discipline of Nursing is an art and a science which is practiced in a wide variety ofsettings. The Licensed Vocational Nurse provides care to clients/patients under the directionof a registered nurse or physician. As a member of the health care team the LVN utilizesscientific and technical expertise and manual skills. The realm of the Registered Nurseincludes health promotion as well as the diagnosis and treatment of human responses toactual and potential health problems (ANA, 1980). These human responses are regarded as adisruption of bio-psycho-social-spiritual integrity.The nurse uses the Nursing Process to assist the client/patient to achieve optimumphysiological, psychosocial, and spiritual integrity or balance through assessment andmanagement of unmet needs. Effective use of the Nursing Process requires the applicationof knowledge and utilization of skills and experiences in a caring and ethical manner.People are complex biological, psychosocial, and spiritual beings that share commonhierarchical human needs which, when optimally met, contribute to an overall balance orintegrity. The individual is a unique reflection of reciprocal interaction with environment,family, community, and society.11

Environment includes all internal and external conditions, circumstances and influences thatinteract and affect patient integrity.Health represents a dynamic state of being that is determined by the degree to which humanneeds are satisfied and physiological, psychosocial, and spiritual integrity is present. Itfluctuates along a health-illness continuum and is influenced by the individual’s perceptionof well-being. This unique perception of the individual results from the effects ofenvironment, family, community, society, and developmental level.Associate Degree Nursing Education is a responsibility shared by the college, educator, andthe student. The college provides comprehensive services that support the college missionand help students achieve their educational goals through assessment of skills and abilities,counseling and advisement, tutoring, financial aid, job placement, health services, andlearning resources, including technological support. The nursing faculty believes they have aresponsibility to be aware of, evaluate, and integrate those technological advances that arefound to foster the teaching-learning process and student success. The educator acts as a rolemodel, consistently demonstrating current nursing knowledge and expertise. Learning isfacilitated when the educator guides the student to develop critical thinking, problem solving,and communication skills. The nursing student is an adult learner, each with individuallearning styles and goals, as well as ethnicity, culture, and diverse life circumstances, all ofwhich influence the learning process.Students are responsible and accountable for their own learning. Learning is an activeendeavor. Participation and group discussion in the classroom, resource laboratory, andvaried clinical settings are inherent components in nursing education. Students learn inincrements, applying previously learned knowledge and skills to new clinical experiences ofincreasing complexity. Students must utilize knowledge from related disciplines in applyingthe theoretical knowledge and skills of nursing in the administration of safe and competentnursing care.6/200912

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthCONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORKThe conceptual framework reflects the philosophy of the MCC nursing programs and formsthe foundation for the curriculum design. The framework schematic illustrates that a personcontinuously interacts on a reciprocal basis with society, family, community and theenvironment. Individual integrity stems from satisfaction of human needs.In the healthcare setting the nurse assists the individual to meet human needs. The nursingprocess forms the foundation for nursing practice which integrates and utilizes knowledge,skills with the qualities of ethics and caring.Definition of terms:Conceptual Framework SchematicBio-Psycho-Social-Spiritual Integrity – a state of wholeness as reflected by the individual’sself perception of well-being as well as through assessment and evaluation of biological,psycho-social and spiritual balance.Human Needs – a hierarchy beginning with physiological needs and progressing to theultimate goal of self-actualization. (see attached Human Needs schematic).Knowledge – familiarity, awareness, and understanding gained through experience and studyof the art and science of nursing and related disciplines.Ethics – the discipline of evaluating the merits, risks, and social concerns of activities in thefield of nursing.13

Skills – proficiency and facility acquired and developed through preparation and experience.Caring – watching over, attending to, feeling and exhibiting concern and empathy for others.It is a force for protecting and enhancing patient integrity.Environment – includes all internal and external conditions, circumstances and influencesthat interact and affect patient integrity.Society – a group of humans broadly distinguished from other groups by mutual interests,participation in characteristic relationships, shared institutions, and a common culture.Family – two or more people who share goals and values and have long-term commitmentsto one another.Community – an interdependent group of individuals and families inhabiting the sameregion and interacting with each other.Nursing Process – a cognitive activity that requires both critical and creative thinking andserves as the basis for providing nursing care. This cyclical and ongoing process is made upof the following components:• Assessment - the process of gathering, verifying, organizing and communicatingclient/patient data.• Diagnosis – the statement of the client/patient problem.• Planning – methodical development of an approach with the patient/family, toachieve specific prioritized goals which are realistic, measurable and time related.• Implementation – a nursing activity selected from an organized knowledge basewhich may employ psychomotor, cognitive, affective, and/or interpersonal skills toattain specific outcomes.• Evaluation – the ongoing review of care plan effectiveness with subsequentadaptation and modification. Effectiveness is measured by the degree to whichdesired outcomes have been achieved.Courses are designed to increase in complexity as the student moves through the curriculum.The integrated threads serve to guide the curriculum by ensuring that common themesneeded for nursing practice are addressed throughout.These threads include:Nursing Process and Human NeedsRole of the NurseProvider and Manager of CareMember of the DisciplineGrowth and DevelopmentCommunicationHuman Diversity (including societal and cultural patterns)Pathophysiology and behavior related to Health and Illness14

Hierarchy of Human NeedsLevel 1 – Physiologic Needs – Survival are the basic physical needs. These needs must be met atleast minimally for life to continue.Level 2 – Physiologic Needs – Stimulation are biologic needs with a significant impact on the qualityof life but are not essential for continued existence.Level 3 – Safety and Security Needs represent the necessity to feel safe and, as such, are bothphysiological and psychological. They include avoiding harm and physical safety as well asstructure, security, and a sense of order.Level 4 – Love and Belonging Needs are social needs. They reflect the necessity for love and a senseof belonging or closeness. They include a person’s ability to maintain affectionaterelationships, companionship, and to affiliate or interact with others through involvementwith and within various groups.Level 5 – Self-Esteem Needs include needs which are related to perceptions of individual adequacy.These perceptions of spirituality, worth, competence, adequacy, and achievement come bothfrom external and internal sources. They reflect beliefs and values about others, self, and ahigher power.Level 6 – Self-Actualization Needs include the degree to which the individual is able to achievepotential and grow and improve. These needs are unique, based on individual talents,inclinations, and preferences.Need Hierarch adapted by faculty from earlier foundational work by Abraham Maslow and Richard Kalisch.6/200815

Section 3:PROGRAM OVERVIEW16

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthProgram InformationPrograms Offered:The generic ADN RN (registered nursing) program is a four semester full-time program designed forstudents who have successfully completed prerequisite coursework and requirements and are seekingnursing as a professional career. The program prepares students for entry level registered nursing inhospitals and other healthcare settings. Successful completion of the curriculum, including classroomand clinical experiences, qualifies the graduate to apply for California RN licensure and the nationallicensing examination (NCLEX-RN).The LVN – RN Career Ladder Program is an 11-month full-time program designed specifically forthe Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) seeking registered nurse licensure. It is intended to prepare theexperienced Vocational Nurse (a current California license in good standing is required) foremployment as an entry-level RN. Successful completion of the curriculum, including classroom andclinical experiences, qualifies the graduate to apply for California RN licensure and the nationallicensing examination (NCLEX-RN).Completion with the Associate Degree:Students successfully completing the required nursing sequence and general education courses areeligible for the Associate in Science: Registered Nursing or the Associate in Arts: Registered Nursing,depending on individual career goals. MiraCosta academic counselors assist students to select thebest educational plan to meet their needs.Completion with the 30-Unit Option:This pathway is legally mandated and must be offered to LVN’s by all California prelicensure nursingprograms. It has advantages and disadvantages that should be carefully be weighed by studentsconsidering this option. It has fewer prerequisites than the degree or certificate. Students completingthis option are not considered graduates of the Nursing Department of MiraCosta College. Althoughstudents completing this option are eligible to apply for licensure in California, they may not beeligible for licensure in other states.Transfer and Challenge Programs:Transfer and challenge opportunities exist in all Programs. Any student enrolled in a BRN approvedassociate degree nursing program at another institution may request transfer of enrollment to thecorresponding program at MiraCosta College. The student seeking entry in this manner must applyas a transfer student and meet all application eligibility criteria. Placement is governed by the Priorityfor Enrollment Policy and space availability. Previous coursework will be evaluated for equivalence.17

Career Ladder students beginning the LVN – RN Program need to be aware of several requirementsregarding the Transition Class (NURS 280). First, since most bridge or transition classes arecurriculum specific, similar classes from other colleges are not automatically acceptable as asubstitute for Nursing 280. Transcripts from other transition or bridge courses must be reviewed bythe Director of the RN program for equivalence to Nursing 280. Secondly, any student enrolled inNURS 280 who is unsuccessful in the course is ineligible to remain in the Program. Completion ofNursing 280 is a requirement for enrollment in any clinical nursing class for Career Ladder students.Challenge opportunities exist for all students who meet the criteria provided in the MiraCosta CollegeCatalog and the Nursing Student Handbook (see Challenge Policy). Students who believe theypossess course-related knowledge and skills acquired within the last five years from related nursing ormedical employment have the option of challenging that course(s) in the nursing sequence. Credit byInstitutional Examination will be offered in a manner consistent with the Academic Policy set forth inthe MiraCosta College Catalog.Accrediting Agency:The Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) must approve prelicensure nursing programs in California.The BRN office is located in Sacramento.Board of Registered Nursing1625 North Market Blvd. – Suite N217Sacramento 95834-1924916-322-3350Clinical Facilities:The following clinical facilities have contractual relationships with the College and are used in itsnursing programs as clinical practice sites.Scripps Memorial Hospital, EncinitasPalomar Medical Center, EscondidoPomerado Medical Center, PowayTri – City Medical Center, VistaKaiser Permanente, San Diego and CarlsbadCamp Pendleton, OceansideSan Diego Hospice (Glenbrook Skilled Nursing Facility), EncinitasSeacrest Village, EncinitasSilverado HospiceVitas HospiceApplication to the Programs:The prerequisites, procedures, and eligibility criteria for application to the RN Program that arepublished by the Department of Nursing and Allied Health are followed consistently for allapplicants. Clarification of this information can be obtained online at(www.miracosta.edu/instruction/nursing), from academic counseling, or the Nursing Department.18

The eligibility criteria are the derived from the statewide Alignment of Associate Degree Nursing(ADN) Programs and follow recommendations made by the California Community CollegeChancellor’s Office.It is expected that applicants will comply in good faith with the guidelines and requirements foreligibility/entry. Any student/applicant who supplies inaccurate, misleading, or false information willbe permanently ineligible for enrollment or reinstatement consideration. The nature of nursingrequires that individuals engaged in its practice place integrity and honesty above expediency andself-interest.Background Checks:All nursing students must undergo a background check and be cleared before beginning clinicalexperiences. However, it is important to note that at program completion, as part of the RN licensureapplication process, the BRN requires fingerprinting that is subjected to scrutiny by the FBI and theDepartment of Justice. In addition, the BRN also requires a valid social security number issued forworking purposes.Based on these results the BRN has the authority to deny an application for a license to practicenursing. The California Business & Professions Code, Section 480 regulates RN licensure. Denial ofan application for licensure may occur because of prior conviction of a crime, acts of dishonesty,fraud, or deceit. Contact the Associate Dean of Nursing and Allied Health for further information.The Board of Registered Nursing website also has information regarding these requirements(www.rn.ca.gov, click on Frequently Asked Questions).10/201019

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthCurriculum PlanFirst SemesterWeeks 1 – 8 Weeks 9 – 12NURS 180 –Fundamentals ofNursing4 UnitsNURS 181 –Medical-SurgicalNursing I4 UnitsPHAR 150 – Pathopharmacology I2 UnitsSecond SemesterNURS 182 – Maternal-Child Nursing5 UnitsNURS 183 – Medical-Surgical Nursing II4 UnitsPHAR 151 – Pathopharmacology II2 UnitsSummer (LVN-RN students only)NURS 280 – Transition from LVN to RN2 UnitsThird SemesterNURS 281 – Medical-Surgical Nursing I6.5 UnitsNURS 282 – Psychiatric-Mental HealthNursing3.5 UnitsPHAR 201 – Pharmacology Review andUpdate (LVN-RN Students only)2 UnitsFourth SemesterNURS 283 – Medical-Surgical Nursing IV6 UnitsNURS 284 – Contemporary NursingPractice and Leadership1.5 UnitsNURS 284L – Preceptorship Lab2 UnitsOptionalNURS 288 – Nursing ExternshipNURS 290 – (Telemetry)20

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthProgram Book ListAckley, B.J. & Ladwig, G.B. (2008). Nursing Diagnosis Handbook (8 th Ed.). St. Louis: Elsevier &Mosby.Adams, M.P., Holland Jr., L.N., & Bostwick, P.M. (2008) Pharmacology for Nurses: APathophysiologic Approach (2 nd Ed.). Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Prentice Hall.Adams, M.P. & Holland Jr., L.N. (2008). Workbook – Pharmacology for Nurses: A PathophysiologicApproach (2 nd Ed.). Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Prentice Hall.Boyd, M.A. (2008). Psychiatric Nursing: Contemporary Practice (4 th Ed.). Philadelphia: Lippincott.Cherry, B. & Jacob, S.R. (2005). Contemporary Nursing – Issues, Trends, & Management (3 rd Ed.).St. Louis: Elsevier & Mosby.Curran, A.M. (2005) Math for Meds: Dosage and Solutions (9 th Ed.). Clifton Park, N.Y., ThompsonDelmar Learning.Deglin, J.H. & Vallerand, A.H. (2009). Davis’ Drug Guide for Nurses (11 th Ed.). Philadelphia: F.A.Davis.Hockenberry, M.J. & Wilson, D. (2009). Wong’s Essentials of Pediatric Nursing (8 th Ed.). St. Louis:Elsevier and Mosby.Hockenberry, M. & Ward, K. (2009). Study Guide for Wong’s Essentials of Pediatric Nursing (8 thEd.). St. Louis: Elsevier & Mosby.Ignatavicius, D.D. & Workman, M.L. (2010). Medical-Surgical Nursing: Patient-CenteredCollaborative Care (6 th Ed.). St. Louis: Elsevier & Mosby.Lowdermilk, D.L. & Perry, S.E. (2010). Maternity Nursing (8 th Ed.). St. Louis: Elsevier & Mosby.MiraCosta College: ADN Nursing Student Handbook (current edition) MCC.Nugent, P.M. & Vitale, B.A. (2008). Test Success: Test-Taking Techniques for Beginning NursingStudents (5 th Ed.). Philadelphia: F.A. Davis.Pagana, K.D. & Pagana, T.J. (2009). Mosby’s Diagnostic and Laboratory Test Reference (9 th Ed.).St. Louis: Elsevier & Mosby.Perry, a.G. & Potter, P.A. (2010). Clinical Nursing Skills and Techniques (7 th Ed.). Stl Louis:Elsevier.Potter, P.A. & Perry, A.G. (2010). Fundamentals of Nursing (7 th Ed.). St. Louis: Elsevier.201021

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthProgram OutcomesThe Program Outcomes / Terminal Objectives reflect the culmination of classroom and clinicalexperiences of the RN Program. They are consistent with the philosophy and conceptual frameworkof the Program and the Standards of Competent Practice as set forth by the California Board ofRegistered Nursing. They are stated as expectations for the graduate as an entry-level RN in the rolesof provider and manager of nursing care and as a member of the discipline of nursing.Upon completion of the MiraCosta College ADN program, the graduate will be able to:Provider and Manager of Care1. Apply knowledge and skills derived from nursing, biological, physical, and social andbehavioral sciences;2. Perform a physical assessment appropriate in depth to the patient’s condition anddevelopmental level;3. Gather clinical information pertinent to the patient/client, differentiating normal fromabnormal data;4. Organize and prioritize subjective and objective assessment information based on unmethuman needs;5. Use collected assessment data to formulate a plan of care;6. Set realistic outcomes in consultation with the patient/client and family,7. Formulate nursing care plans respecting physical, psychological, social and culturaluniqueness, developmental level, perceptions, choices, and values;8. Adapt nursing care to optimize patient/client achievement of human needs and bio-psychosocial-spiritualintegrity;9. Demonstrate sound clinical judgment and critical thinking in decision-making, taskprioritization, and leadership/management skills;10. Provide direct nursing care to the complex patient/client in a safe and effective manner;11. Delegate nursing care appropriately to other members of the health care team, monitoring thedelivery of safe and effective care;12. Use teaching/learning principles to meet identified health education needs of patients/clientsand families;13. Communicate effectively with colleagues, other members of the healthcare team, thepatient/client, and family in varied settings;14. Assume responsibility and accountability for care given assigned patients/clients, includingdelegated care;15. Coordinate with other members of the acute care and community health team to promoteoptimal fulfillment of human needs and bio-psycho-social-spiritual integrity;22

16. Continuously evaluate, reassess, and modify the plan of care to achieve desired patient/clientoutcomes;Member of the Profession17. Recognize and deal appropriately with ethical/legal problems;18. Participate as a patient advocate in providing and managing care;19. Use current technology to provide current high-quality nursing care and individual growth;20. Express awareness of the role of the adn graduate, trends within nursing and healthcare, andthe role of involvement in determining the future direction of nursing; and,21. Establish goals for personal growth within the discipline, accepting responsibility for learningas a life-long process.4/10/0623

MiraCosta College – Nursing and Allied HealthRelationship of Selected Student Clinical Competencies to Program Outcomes and to “Standards of Competent Performance 1 ”The three columns of this table illustrate the relationship between defined student competencies, program outcomes, and the statewide standards forcompetent RN practice set by the BRN. The first column contains selected student competencies (examples taken from course requirements across thecurriculum), the second column is the complete list of outcomes expected of graduates, and the last is the full statement of the BRN Standards of CompetentPerformance. All course competencies are designed to help the student acquire increasingly complex skills across the curriculum and grow towardgraduation and practice. Columns two and three demonstrate how graduate expectations meet the BRN Standards.Representative Student Competency Program Outcomes / Terminal Objectives BRN Standards of Competent PerformanceAt the completion of the course the student willbe able to:The Program Outcomes correspond to the role ofthe nurse in providing and managing patient careand to the role of the nurse as a member of thenursing discipline.Role of Provider and Manager of Care:Applies theory to clinical practice.Performs a complete and focused assessmentappropriate to patient’s condition anddevelopmental level.Collects data from all available sources usingscientific inquiry and patient-focused research todifferentiate normal from abnormal.Identifies and prioritizes unmet human needsbased on assessment.Formulates nursing diagnosis statement based onthe human needs hierarchy.Develops realistic outcomes in consultation withthe patient and family that are achievable andmeasurable.Role as Provider and Manger of Care: Uponcompletion of the MiraCosta College NursingProgram, the graduate will be able to:1. apply knowledge and skills derived fromnursing, biological, and social and behavioralsciences;2. perform a physical assessment appropriate indepth to the patient’s condition and developmentallevel;3. gather clinical information pertinent to thepatient/client, differentiating normal fromabnormal data;4. organize and prioritize subjective and objectiveassessment information based on unmet humanneeds;5. use collected assessment data to formulate anursing diagnosis statement;6. set realistic outcomes in consultation with thepatient/client and family;A registered nurse shall be considered to becompetent when he/she consistently demonstratesthe ability to transfer scientific knowledge fromsocial, biological and physical sciences inapplying the nursing process, as follows:1. Formulates a nursing diagnosis throughobservation of the client’s physical condition andbehavior, and through interpretation ofinformation obtained from the client and others,including the health team.24

Representative Student Competency Program Outcomes / Terminal Objectives BRN Standards of Competent PerformanceDevelops appropriate nursing interventions thataddress unmet needs and support desiredoutcomes.Plans individualized nursing care based on thehuman need hierarchy.Demonstrates the ability to think throughproblems and find solutions.Provides safe care for assigned patient(s), and,Organizes, administers, and coordinates care in atimely manner for multiple patients.Delegates and supervises appropriately.Provides health care teaching and healthpromotion relevant to patient’s health care needs,level of understanding, and knowledge of needdeficit(s).Communicates effectively with instructor,members of the healthcare team, and colleagues invaried settings, and, Communicates with patientand family in a developmentally appropriatemanner.Accountable and responsible for all actions.Provides ongoing information about patient(s) tohealth care team and instructor.Evaluates effectiveness of nursing interventions inmeeting expected outcomes, and,Revises plan of care based on evaluation.7. formulate nursing care plans respectingphysical, psychological, social and culturaluniqueness, developmental level, perceptions,choices, and values;8. adapt nursing care to optimize patient/clientachievement of human needs and bio-psychosocial-spiritualintegrity;9. demonstrate sound clinical judgment andcritical thinking in decision-making, taskprioritization, and leadership/management skills;10. provide direct nursing care to the complexpatient/client in a safe and effective manner;11. delegate nursing care appropriately to othermembers of the health care team, monitoring thedelivery of safe and effective care;12. use teaching/learning principles to meetidentified health education needs ofpatients/clients and families;13. communicate effectively with colleagues, othermembers of the healthcare team, the patient/client,and family in varied settings;14. assume responsibility and accountability forcare given assigned patients/clients, includingdelegated care;15. coordinate with other members of the acutecare and community health team to promoteoptimal fulfillment of human needs and biopsycho-social-spiritualintegrity;16. continuously evaluate, reassess, and modifythe plan of care to achieve desired patient/clientoutcomes;252. Formulates a care plan, in collaboration withthe client, which ensures that direct and indirectnursing care services provide for the client’ssafety, comfort, hygiene, and protection, and fordisease prevention and restorative measures.3. Performs skills essential to the kind of nursingaction to be taken, explains the treatment to theclient and family and teaches the client and familyhow to care for the client’s health needs.4. Delegates tasks to subordinates based on thelegal scopes of practice of the subordinates and onthe preparation and capability needed in the tasksto be delegated and effectively supervises nursingcare being given by subordinates.5. Evaluates the effectiveness of the care planthrough observation of the client’s physicalcondition and behavior, signs and symptoms of

Representative Student Competency Program Outcomes / Terminal Objectives BRN Standards of Competent PerformanceApplies ethical and legal principles in relation to patientcare, facility, and college policyParticipates as a patient advocate in providing andmanaging care.Use current technology to maximize quality of care.Nursing 280 and 284Seeks opportunities for new learning, and,Nursing 284.Role as Member of the Discipline: Upon completionof the MiraCosta College Nursing Program, thegraduate will be able to:17. recognize and deal appropriately withethical/legal problems;18. participate as a patient advocate in providingand managing care;19. use current technology to provide current highqualitynursing care and individual growth;20. express awareness of the role of the ADNgraduate, trends within nursing and healthcare,and the role of involvement in determining thefuture direction of nursing; and,21. establish goals for personal growth within thediscipline, accepting responsibility for learning asa life-long process.1 Title 16, California Code of Regulations: Division 14, Article 4 - 1443.5illness, and reactions to treatment and throughcommunication with the client and the health caremembers, and modifies the plan as needed.6. Acts as the client’s advocate, as circumstancesrequire by initiating action to improve health careor to change decisions or activities which areagainst the interests or wishes of the client, and bygiving the client the opportunity to makeinformed decisions about health care before it isprovided.6/200626

Section 3:General Information,Requirements,andResources

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthGENERAL INFORMATIONFirst Class Meeting AttendanceStudents who do not attend the first class meeting and have not notified the Department / Instructormay be dropped from the class.Changes in Student InformationIt is important that the student notify the Department promptly of any changes in name, address,telephone numbers, or emergency contact person(s). In cases of emergency, illness, or schedulingchange it is critical that the Department be able to reach all students.Student Participation in GovernanceStudent participation in program governance is highly valued and actively sought. Manyopportunities are available to develop leadership skills and contribute to Program maintenance andimprovement. One example, critical to the Program for accreditation purposes, is studentparticipation in faculty meetings. One student from each clinical/laboratory group will be asked toserve as liaison with the faculty.Commencement CeremonyGraduates of the ADN Program participate in the annual MiraCosta College Commencement. TheCommencement ceremony is the only official departmental completion activity in which facultyparticipate. Registered nursing is an academic discipline and, as such, celebrates culminationcampus-wide with graduates and faculty from all other disciplines.Completion CeremonyA pinning ceremony is held on campus in December and May of each year for those studentssuccessfully completing the program. The completing students dress in nursing uniforms and receivethe school pin at this time. Third semester students are expected to attend and to participate.Graduating students, with the help of the Assistant Director and nursing faculty, plan the ceremony.Final approval of the ceremony plans must be given by the Director. All students in attendance areexpected to meet the Standards of Student Appearance in the Clinical Setting specified elsewhere inthe Nursing Student Handbook.Dosage Competency PretestsPrior to each clinical rotation in which medication administration is required, students will be given adosage calculation test. Students must obtain at least a 90% on the examination to be allowed toadminister medications. The examination is designed to reflect current practice, safety standards, andregulations. If the first two attempts are unsuccessful, the student will be given an interventioncontract and permitted to take the exam a third time. If the student is unsuccessful on the third28

attempt, he or she will receive a failing clinical evaluation. If the student is eligible for reentry he orshe may reapply to the program after meeting with the Program Director.Examination IssuesFaculty members will identify examination review guidelines for each class. Students are expected toobserve test security guidelines. Test materials and information are never to be removed from aclassroom. Information about a test is never to be solicited, collected, or shared. An infraction ofthese guidelines will be treated as an infraction of the academic honesty expectations for nursingstudents.Learning DisabilitiesMore learning disabilities are being diagnosed than ever before. Any student who feels they mayhave a learning disability or has previously been told they have one should contact the MiraCostaCollege Disabled Student’s Program and Services Office in Building 3000 (760-795-6658).Any student with a learning disability is encouraged to discuss it with each faculty member as theyprogress through the program. Since student disability test results are governed by legislationguarding privacy and can only be shared at the request of the student, the student is responsible forproviding necessary accommodation information (validation from the college learning specialist maybe requested) to each of his or her instructors in each course and level of the program. Thenotification should allow the faculty member at least seven days to arrange for accommodation. If thestudent: 1) chooses to withhold this information from the faculty, or 2) refuses offeredaccommodation, no special consideration can be granted retroactively.Student SupervisionExcept for patient research purposes, or during special community and preceptor experiences, nostudent is allowed in any patient care area without an instructor present in the facility for supervision.Clinical rotations represent a contractual relationship with health care providers and instructorsupervision is required.Beepers and Cellular PhonesStudents who wear beepers must keep them on vibrate mode in the clinical setting and in theclassroom. Cellular phones may not be used in the classroom or taken to patient care areas duringclinical hours. Students may NEVER take pictures of any kind within the hospital. This means thatstudents may not bring cameras or cell phones with them into the hospitals/clinical agencies at all.These devices must be locked in a vehicle outside the agency or left at home. If a family emergencyoccurs, please have the family member call directly to the unit assigned or to the appropriateinstructor. 10/2010Social Networking SitesThe Nursing Department at MiraCosta College recognizes that social networking websites are used asa means of communication. Future employers often review these network sites when considering29

potential candidates for employment. No privatization measure is perfect. Information can “live on”beyond its removal from the original website and continue to circulate in other venues.In your professional role as a care-giver, do not:• Present the personal health information of other individuals. Removal of an individual’s namedoes not constitute proper de-identification of protected health information. Inclusion of datasuch as age, gender, race, diagnosis, date of evaluation, or type of treatment or the use of ahighly specific medical photograph my still allow the reader to recognize the identity of aspecific individual.• Present yourself as an official representative or spokesperson for the MiraCosta CollegeNursing Department.• Utilize websites and/or applications in a manner that interferes with your clinicalcommitments.Individuals should make every effort to present themselves in a mature, responsible, and professionalmanner. Discourse should always be civil and respectful. The actions listed below are stronglydiscouraged.• Display of language or photographs that imply disrespect for any individual or group becauseof age, race, gender, ethnicity, or sexual orientation.• Presentation of information that may be interpreted as condoning irresponsible use of alcohol,substance abuse, or sexual promiscuity.Therefore, think carefully before you post any information on a website or application.Patient / Client ConfidentialityNurses must be particularly vigilant to maintain the patient / client’s right to privacy. This right isprotected by law (HIPAA). It is also guided by the standards of ethical practice which prohibitdivulging confidential information to anyone not involved in the plan of care. Anonymity of medicalinformation must be protected. Individual hospitals / units and agencies have their own policies andprocedures designed to be HIPAA compliant which must be followed without exception. Generalguidelines:• Never remove computer printouts or photocopies containing patient information from thenursing unit.• Never leave the clinical setting with any source of information or identifying data that couldbe linked to a specific patient.• Do not store patient and staff information in any electronic format, such as a PDA orcomputerized device.• Do not ever bring a camera of any kind (including cell phone) to the clinical setting.• Avoid discussions that would allow others to identify the subject of the information andremove all identifying information from notes of care.Failure to comply with the standard as noted above holds serious consequences for the hospital,clinic, nursing program, and the patient. Any violation may have serious repercussions and result instudent disciplinary action including possible dismissal from the program.30

Background ChecksStudents entering the program or returning after a period of absence must undergo a backgroundcheck. This is a requirement of the healthcare agencies with whom the college has affiliationcontracts. The background checks are done at the student’s expense and must be clear prior tobeginning any clinical rotations. It is not the responsibility of MiraCosta or the Nursing Departmentto secure clinical experiences for students whose background checks do not clear (see Section 5 -Background Check/Drug Screen Process for detailed information).Health Requirements and Health CoveragePrior to entering the Nursing Program, students must have a physical with lab reports and updatedimmunization/immunity status information. These requirements are continued during enrollment forcompletion of immunization series or follow-up lab work. These are requirements of the clinicalfacilities with which the College has affiliation contracts and must be completed prior to all scheduledclinical activities.Students are encouraged to carry their own health insurance. An important resource is the StudentHealth Services Program located in the 3300 building. Many non-emergent low-cost services areavailable through that office, including Student Accident and Sickness insurance information.If the student is injured, becomes seriously ill, has surgery, or becomes pregnant while enrolled in theProgram, a physician’s note must be provided before returning to the classroom or clinical setting.This release must specifically state that the student may participate in both clinical nursing activitiesand classroom sessions without restrictions. The note will be retained in the student’s file. Anystudent injured in the clinical setting must follow the instructions in the next section (StudentAccident/Injury).Students must be free from any condition that would prevent the safe and successful performance ofrequired responsibilities and tasks. If, after enrollment, a student develops a condition whichinterferes with this level of performance, the Program Director may require an examination andevaluation by a health care provider at the student’s cost. The provider completing the examinationmust be acceptable to the Director and faculty.Functional Abilities Essential for Nursing PracticeThe curriculum of the RN Program must be approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing.Requirements for program approval include clinical supervision by nursing faculty anddocumentation by the faculty that individual students have met objectives involving physical care ofpatients/tasks in the clinical setting. The clinical student assignments and evaluation criteria reflectexpectations at the entry-level staff nurse.All students must successfully meet these clinical requirements in order to complete any course with aclinical component. All courses must be completed in order for the student to be eligible to apply forlicensure and the licensure examination. Therefore the student must be able to demonstrate that he or31

she can perform the basic physical and cognitive job requirements of the entry-level staff nurse.These include, but are not limited to:Functional AbilityManual DexterityMobilityMath CompetencyProcessing PatientInformationCritical ThinkingAnalytical ThinkingActivity/Attribute• Use sterile technique• Insert catheters• Withdraw blood• Prepare medications (PO, IM, IV)• Manipulate small objects and equipment• Open and close medication containers• Remain at bedside for a prolonged period of time to monitor and assess• Perform CPR• Assist in lifting, turning, and moving patients and patient care materials• Move independently to and from patient care areas• Stooping, lifting, pulling, standing, and walking• Tell time• Use measuring tools• Record numbers correctly• Add, subtract, multiply, divide accurately• Calculate medication dosages (PO, IM, IV) and intravenous solutionrates within a safe and realistic time frame• Respond appropriately to verbal communication with or without directview of speaker's face• Respond to monitor alarms, emergency signals, overhead pages, callbells, and physician orders in a rapid and effective manner• Accurately assess blood pressure, heart, lung, and abdominal sounds• Identify critical changes in patient condition or appearance, such aschanges in skin color, skin temperature, or respirations• Process information from small medication containers, medicationrecords, physician's orders, monitor equipment, printed documents, flowsheets, graphic sheets, and other medical records• Identify cause and effect relationships• Sequence information in a manner that is logical and can be understoodby others• Make sound clinical judgments and decisions based on standards ofnursing care• Identify the need to seek assistance when a clinical situation requires ahigher level of expertise/experience• Transfer knowledge from one situation to another• Assess patient needs based on understanding and synthesis of patientinformation• Develop effective plans of care based on assessment, planning, andongoing evaluation• Prioritize tasks to ensure patient safety and standards of care• Demonstrate respect for individual differences in people32

Interpersonal andCommunicationSkillsEmotional Stability• Establish and maintain effective working relations with patients and coworkers• Teach and provide information in an accurate and effective manner• Report critical patient information to other caregivers• Document and/or communicate information to others accurately,comprehensibly, and in a timely manner using verbal, print, and/orelectronic means• Demonstrate compliance with medical confidentiality issues• Demonstrate ethical and professional behavior• Provide emotional support to patients• Maintain behavioral decorum in stressful situations• Maintain adequate concentration and attention inpatient care settings• Adapt rapidly to environmental changes and multiple task demands• Prioritize activities/actions in an environment of multiple important andsometimes conflicting demandsStudents with a disability may request reasonable accommodations in order to have access toprograms and services offered by MCC. If you need such accommodations, please contact theDisabled Students Programs and Services office at (760) 757-2121, x 6658.33

Student Accident/InjuryAn accident or injury involving the student that occurs in connection with the College’s regularcurriculum or in the clinical/nursing setting must be reported immediately to the instructor. This istrue regardless of how trivial it may seem at the time. Reportable incidents may include, but are notlimited to, falls, musculoskeletal strains, body fluid exposure, and needle sticks.Any injury to a student as described above will initiate the process used by the College for anyworker’s compensation incident. All RN students are covered under the District's Workers'Compensation Insurance. Injured students are referred to Health Services on campus for assistanceand an Authorization for Examination or Treatment Referral Form. Health Services is open Mondaythrough Friday from 8AM to 4PM and Thursday from 8AM to 7PM. Referrals made during businesshours will be made to one of the U.S. HealthWorks Medical Groups shown on the forms on thefollowing pages.If the student is unable to go to Health Services because the injury occurs after business hours, thestudent, in consultation with the faculty member, should choose one of the HealthWorks locations. Ifthe severity or nature of the injury precludes delay or leaving the facility, the student should bereferred to the Emergency Department in the clinical facility. The instructor should notify theMiraCosta Health Center as soon as possible. The student must identify the emergency room visit asWorker’s Compensation.For all injuries in which medical attention is received, the Supervisor's Report of Accident (form 231)and Worker's Compensation Claim Form (DWC1) are to be completed by both the student andinstructor and submitted to the college on the next business day. Please contact the Nursing Officefor assistance.Patient Accident / ErrorIn the event of any error, accident, or injury to a patient involving the student, the instructor must benotified immediately. She or he will review the situation with the student and staff. In all cases thestudent will be asked to complete the MiraCosta College Student Incident Form (a sample form canbe found in the Handbook, Section 7). Failure to notify the instructor of any such incident does notreflect the required level of accountability required of nursing students and can result in disciplinaryaction.34

Internet AccessClasses may be conducted in a computer classroom with Internet access. Because MiraCosta Collegesupports the concept of academic freedom, there are no filters blocking Internet access to electroniccontent. As you are aware, some Internet sites contain material that is not appropriate for theeducational setting. If you should find yourself subjected to offensive content of any nature, youshould inform your instructor immediately. Inappropriate use of technology at MiraCosta will not betolerated. This includes, but is not limited to the following examples:• Violating copyright law or software license agreements• Installing software without authorization• Seeking to gain or gaining unauthorized access to information resources• Damaging software or hardware owned by the college• Distributing "spam" e-mail, offensive email content, or other abuse of email accountsprovided by the college• Intentionally disrupting network activity or attempt to hack into systems using MiraCostaCollege equipment or networks• Violating college policies regarding sexual or racial harassmentMembers of the college community - students and staff - are required to act in accordance withCollege policies, relevant laws, contractual obligations, and the highest standard of ethics.Classroom EtiquetteClassrooms are used by a variety of classes and programs. Please avoid the distraction caused byentering classrooms when another class is in session. This includes placing belongings inside orpassing through to gain access to the lab or other areas. Please keep personal belongings offequipment in the nursing lab. Students are expected to be respectful, attentive, and participatory inclass with all electronic communication devices turned off. Cellular telephones are not to be used inthe classroom.Students are expected to demonstrate respectful behavior to peers, faculty, and staff to contribute to apositive classroom and learning environment. Any behavior identified as disruptive carries possibledisciplinary consequences which may include, according to MiraCosta policy, removal from class fortwo class meetings.10/201037

Helpful Campus ResourcesThe following campus resources are some of the resources available to assist students.OfficeExtensionAcademic Counseling 795 - 6670Admissions and Records 796 - 6620Bookstore 795 - 6630Campus Police 795 - 6640Child Development Center 795 - 6656Counseling (see Academic Counseling)Disabled Student Services (DSP&S) 795 - 6658Financial Aid 795 - 6711Health Services 795 - 6675Librarycirculation desk 795 - 6715reference desk 795 - 6716Scholarship Office 795 - 6895Service Learning 795 - 6616Testing / Assessment Center 795 - 6685Transfer Center 795 - 6880Tutoring/Academic Support (TASC) 795 - 6682Wellness Center 757-2121, ext. 6248Writing Center 795 - 6682Office / Faculty MemberExtensionDepartment: Nursing & Allied Health 757-2121, Ext. 6466Secretary Aimee Gralla 6466Secretary Shauna Schuette 6466Director Sandy Comstock 6651Nursing Skills Lab Denise Omitt 6269Rita Barden 6447Yvette Duncan 6440Marti Essman 6764Roland Estrella 6510FacultyJoan Moore 6678Susan Roberts 6567Sue Simpson 6572Vicky Tam 6384Julie Vignato 621438

Section 5:EXPECTATIONSANDSTANDARDS39

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthEXPECTATIONS AND STANDARDSNursing Student Conduct / Faculty ResponsibilityI. Expectations held by the CollegeThe MiraCosta College Catalog contains the “Rights and Responsibilities of Students.” Thispolicy strives to provide a positive educational environment and maintain the health andsafety of the campus community. The policy is consistent with the California Education codeand all applicable laws.II. Expectations held by Nursing FacultyThe following expectations focus on the role of student as nurse and are intended tosupplement the “Rights and Responsibilities of Students.” It is expected that the MiraCostaCollege Nursing Student will:1. Perform only those nursing procedures that have been previously taught and practiced;2. Demonstrate consistent growth and improvement in both nursing knowledge and skillthroughout the Program;3. Establish and maintain relationships that are proper and appropriate with faculty,patients, staff, and visitors;4. Build interpersonal relationships that communicate respect and promote human dignity;5. Speak only English in patient care areas unless conversing with patient/family orinterpreting;6. Use English in peer communications in the classroom and Department Office areas,simply out of courtesy and to strengthen interpersonal trust;7. Refrain from discussion of own personal or health problems with patients / families;8. Avoid suggesting treatments or remedies outside the scope of nursing interventions;9. Listen to and demonstrate sincere interest in the patient and/or their significant othersor family;10. Respect patient/client confidentiality;11. Follow directions diligently, assume responsibility for assigned patients, and beaccountable for the quality of the care provided the patient;12. Abide by the dress code of the Department at all times when in the clinical area anddress appropriately when representing the Department and College in communityhealth activities;13. Provide care which demonstrates respect for human dignity and the uniqueness of eachindividual, regardless of social or economic status, ethnicity, lifestyle, personalattributes, or illness; and,14. Recognize that actions and words spoken in the clinical area are a direct reflection onthe entire faculty and student body of the Nursing Department. Make it a positivereflection!III. Responsibilities of Students and Faculty in Teaching and LearningThe faculty believes that teaching and learning are responsibilities shared by both studentsand faculty. In recognition of this belief the responsibilities of each are defined below.Acquisition of Nursing Knowledge and SkillsThe faculty will endeavor to:1. Clearly and consistently communicate requirements for course success and teach tocourse outcomes;2. Make every attempt to caution any student who is not progressing satisfactorily;40

3. Present information in a manner which encourages the stuent to actively participate inthe learning process; and,4. Evaluate and measure student achievement as objectively as possible, always strivingfor methods which evaluate the student fairly and consistently.The student will endeavor to:1. Communicate clearly in verbal and written form;2. Demonstrate comprehension by applying nursing science / information in the clinicalsetting;3. Perform procedures with instructor supervision4. Demonstrate readiness for and attend all scheduled class / clinicla activities;5. Evaluate new information and integrate with previous learning6. Seek out opportunities for new learning;7. Recognize deficits in skill and/or knowledge and plan realistic remediation; and,8. Follow faculty suggestions for appropriate or recommended resources to enhancelearning.Acquisition of Attributes of Caring and as a member of the discipline of nursingThe faculty will endeavor to:1. Serve as positive role models and to provide the student with other equally positive rolemodels;2. Maintain high standards within their own practice;3. Remain current and knowledgeable in area of clinical expertise;4. Promote opportunities for the student to learn and grow; and,5. Consider patient safety as their highest priority.The student will endeavor to:1. Reflect on his or her own values and beliefs, recognizing the way they influence care;2. Demonstrate integrity and honesty;3. Strive to be self-directed4. Participate in class and community activities;5. Follow recommendations made by instructor;6. Realistically evaluate infividual performance and growth;7. Identify ethical dilemmas and seek appropriate resolution and/or assistance;8. Use appropriate channels of communication when expressing concerns, beliefs, orideas; and,9. Provide care which demonstrates a principal concern for patient safety and comfort.5/0641

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthSTANDARDS OF STUDENT APPEARANCE IN THE CLINICAL SETTING*FACULTY EXPECTATIONS:1. The clinical area is considered any healthcare setting in which a MiraCosta NursingStudent is present in an educational capacity. This includes all areas of the facility,not just those in which direct nursing care is provided.2. All students must adhere to the Student Uniform Requirements except in specialsettings as directed by the faculty.3. Uniform (or other dress specified by faculty) is clean and laundered. Shoes and lacesare clean. Overall appearance is neat, pressed, and well-kept. Undergarments cannotbe visible through the uniform.4. Photo nametag with at least 18-point type MUST be clearly visible at all times,positioned above the waist.5. When students are in a rotation, event, or researching assignments where the officialschool uniform is not required, business attire is the appropriate level of dress. A labcoat is required and school identification must be worn. No jeans or low necklines.Low-heeled and close-toed shoes.6. Hair is off the collar and out of the face. No extremes in style or color areappropriate; flowers, bows, beads, ornate combs or barrettes should not be used.7. Makeup, if used, is applied lightly. The use of scent is not accepted because of patientallergies and sensitivities.8. Hospital safety standards dictate fingernail requirements. Nails are short and wellgroomed (no longer than ¼ inch in length. If nail polish is used it should be neutral orlight in color and without chips. Acrylic or any other nail enhancement is notpermitted during clinical rotations.9. Jewelry is limited to wedding or engagement rings, name pin, and watch. Only onesmall stud-size earring in each ear LOBE is allowed. Bracelets are not to be worn.Chains or necklaces are not to be worn on the outside of the uniform.10. No visible body piercing is allowed, other than identified in #9.11. All tattoos must be covered to the fullest extent possible.12. Gum is not used in the clinical area. Food and beverages are consumed only indesignated areas.13. Components of the school uniform that identify the wearer as a nursing student are notto be worn in non-student clinical activities, such as employment.The instructor reserves the right to refuse to allow a student to remain in the clinical area ifhe or she does not meet uniform and/or personal appearance expectations. Dressrequirement in some clinical areas may differ from the Standards. Hospital policy and thatof the area to which the student is assigned must be followed as presented by the instructor.Any student dismissed from the clinical area because of appearance will be consideredabsent for the entire day.* Standards are consistent with the Student Dress Code of the San Diego Nursing Service-Education Consortium asrevised by that group on 4/21/2006. 5/200642

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthStudent Uniform RequirementsMiraCosta nursing students are required to purchase uniforms from Dove Professional Apparel. Toorder your uniform(s) go to: http://www.doveapparel.com and click on 'ordering.' Next, click on'custom school web pages,' enter MiraCosta's code ( MCCLR), and click 'submit.'• Select from the dark teal uniforms shown. These are the ONLY uniforms permitted. Whenyou are in clinical you are required to have a clean uniform each day.• Select one school patch for each uniform top and jacket you purchase.• The school patch is placed on the left sleeve one inch below the shoulder seam. Prior tostitching it in place it should be soaked in a solution of ½ vinegar and ½ water and then driedto make certain the patch is colorfast during laundering.• A school nametag and a facility required identification badge will be worn and clearly visibleon the uniform top each day the student is in the clinical setting.• Shoes are to be all white uniform shoes or leather athletic shoes with no markings or stripes.They may be slip-on or tie-type. Canvas tennis shoes are not acceptable. Soles may not behigher than 2 inches.• Optional lab coats or jackets may be worn with the uniform and are available on the Dovewebsite. There are two styles from which to choose. These are the only acceptable lab jacketthat may be worn. Sweaters or other jackets may NOT be worn over the uniform in theclinical area.• When in the campus laboratory setting students must wear modest dress at all times. Low orplunging necklines, tank tops, and tops which expose midriffs are examples of inappropriatedress. Students work as groups in close proximity to each other in this setting and thesegarments interfere with their ability to move freely while practicing and performing nursingskills which often require stooping and bending.9/200943

Section 6:STUDENT POLICIES44

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthAttendance PolicyThe nursing programs at MiraCosta College are concentrated and rigorous courses of study. Thestudent is expected to be present at each class meeting and clinical assignment at the designatedtimes. Any impending clinical absence must be reported to the clinical instructor following theprocedure he or she outlined at the beginning of the rotation.If a student becomes ill or experiences an emergency during a clinical day and feels he or she mustleave the hospital, the instructor must be consulted prior to departure. The student may not leave theclinical facility without the instructor’s knowledge at any time. Any student who leaves a clinicalfacility without the instructor’s permission or knowledge will be subject to serious disciplinary actionthat may result in termination from the program.Absences or patterns of tardiness that are deemed to be excessive will result in disciplinary action.The faculty will consider, on an individual basis, the nature of the absences and the degree to whichthe student has met course objectives. Determination of whether the student has met courseobjectives will be based on the student’s prior and current academic and clinical performance. TheProgram requires a minimum examination average of 75% in theory and a “Pass” clinical evaluation.Lecture Absence• Any student who does not attend the first class meeting and does not call to notify theinstructor may be dropped from the class.• The student is responsible for missed lecture content and for obtaining any handout materials.• Individual instructors may require make-up assignments for lecture absences.• Absences which exceed the number of hours the class meets in a two week period areconsidered excessive.Clinical Absence• It is expected that students will be present every week in theory and clinical.• It is at the discretion of the individual instructor whether or not missed clinical time will bemade up. The time required will be at least equal to the time missed. The assignment will bedetermined by the clinical course coordinator and may include, but is not limited to: 1) aselection of computer programs(s) and/or videos on which to report, 2) a library researchproject, 3) oral presentation, or 4) case study, or 5) clinical hours within a facility. Make-upassignments must be completed within one week from the date assigned. Failure to completethe assignment on time or in a satisfactory manner may result in a “Fail” course clinicalevaluation.45

• A student who is absent due to illness or injury may be asked to present a note from his or herphysician before being allowed to return to class. The note will verify the absence validityand specifically release the student to clinical with “no physical restrictions.”• A student who misses a clinical assignment within the rotation that is critical to coursecompetency evaluation, may not be able to be rescheduled for that experience and will, ofnecessity, receive a “Fail” course clinical evaluation.TardinessPatterns of habitual tardiness are not consistent with the expected attributes of responsibility andaccountability. The existence of such a pattern may result in a request to come to a faculty meeting todiscuss the problem and/or disciplinary actions. Three tardy arrivals will be considered and dealtwith as an absence.Lecture• Tardiness to lectures is disruptive to the entire class. Tardiness to a class in which anexamination is being conducted may result in having points deducted from the score earned.• Three tardy arrivals will be considered and dealt with as an absence.Clinical• The student is expected to be in his or her assigned clinical area and ready to begin relatedactivities and tasks at the time specified by the individual faculty member.• Any tardiness will be reflected in the Weekly Clinical Performance evaluation. If a student istardy twice during a rotation, the instructor will outline expectations for improvement.Continued tardiness may result in a “Fail” clinical evaluation.• If a student anticipates a possible tardiness, he or she is expected to inform the instructorusing the procedure outlined by the instructor during orientation.5/0646

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthGrading PolicyGeneral Grading Information1. Each nursing class syllabus outlines expectations for that course.2. Student achievement may be measured in various ways that may include, but are not limitedto, examinations, quizzes, projects, reports, case studies (actual or simulated), or term papers.The final grade is a composite of the evaluative measures used and weighted as explained inthe course outline.3. Students must earn a grade of “C” or better in all courses required by the nursing major forthe degree or certificate in order to progress to the next course or complete the courseworkand apply for licensure. The grading scale for all students enrolled in the Associate DegreeRN Program is:A = 90 - 100%B = 80 – 89.9%C = 75 – 79.9%F =

Written Assignments1. It is expected that all assignments will be complete and submitted on time. All submittedassignments must be legible, college level, and neat. Word processed papers are alwayspreferred, and in some instances, may be required. Written work may be required in APAformat.2. The instructor reserves the right to refuse any assignments that are late, incomplete, illegible,and/or poorly or improperly completed. If she or he approves a request for late submission itmay include a 5% grade penalty for each day of the school week it is tardy.3. Any work not completed by the end of the course will result in a final grade of “F” unless thestudent has experienced an unforeseen but verifiable emergency and receives permissionfrom the instructor. This statement is in compliance with the College Policy (see Catalog). Ifan “incomplete” is assigned and the student is allowed to progress in the course sequence, allwork must be made up within the next semester.4. Written work will be subjected to software or web-based scrutiny for plagiarism.Portfolio1. Each student is expected to complete a portfolio as a program requirement. The portfolio willbe used as both a learning and an assessment tool. The culmination of this effort will reflectthe transition of the student from the student role to that of graduate.2. At the beginning of the program a binder with designated tabs will be provided for thestudent's use.3. Learning activities/assignments to be incorporated into the portfolio will be assigned in eachcourse/semester.4. Assignments in the portfolio will be graded as credit (pass) or no-credit (fail). If a no-creditgrade is issued, the student will be expected to correct and resubmit the portfolio in order tosuccessfully complete the course and continue in the program.Examinations and Quizzes1. Testing is an important tool that the nursing faculty members at MiraCosta utilize todetermine a student’s progress in the classroom.2. Students are expected to be present for all exams, quizzes, and presentations and must notifythe instructor prior to the scheduled examination time if unable to be present for any reason.3. The instructor is not required to offer a make-up examination. If a make-up examination isgranted, it will be usually be offered in an essay format.4. Make-up examinations must be completed prior to the first lecture day of class in thefollowing week, or before the next test, whichever is earlier. Other specific arrangementsmay be made at the discretion of the instructor.5. Failure to comply with any or all of the above may result in the reduction of ten percentagepoints from the test score. Ten additional percentage points may be deducted from the testscore for each subsequent late school day.48

6. At no time should an exam booklet, written materials, or information from the examinationleave the classroom. Students failing to comply will be subject to disciplinary action by thefaculty.7. Students are encouraged to review their test and scores to enhance learning. Students haveone week after reviewing the test to bring any discrepancies to the attention of the faculty.8. If a possible grading discrepancy is discovered by the student in a written assignment, thestudent has one week to bring this to the faculty’s attention, after the assignment has beengraded.ATI TestingMiraCosta College has contracted with Assessment Technologies Institute, LLC (ATI) to providea complete diagnostic testing service for the nursing program. Students will be tested and havethe opportunity to remediate throughout the program. Students are given a code at the beginningof the semester and are required to complete online practice exams (with a score > 90%).Proctored tests are scheduled at the discretion of the instructor. The score of a proctored test maybe added to points earned for the course. A description of each examination can be found inGuidelines and Regulations.Online Practice ExamsRequired for Generic Nursing Students ~ Proctored Online (score > 90%)First Semester• Fundamentals of NursingSecond Semester• Maternal-Newborn Nursing• Nursing Care of Children• PharmacologyThird Semester• Mental Health NursingFourth Semester• Adult Medical-Surgical Nursing• RN Comprehensive Predictor• RN LeadershipRequired for LVN-RN Program StudentsSummer• Fundamentals of NursingFall• Mental Health Nursing• PharmacologySpring• Maternal-Newborn Nursing• Nursing Care of Children• Adult Medical-Surgical Nursing• RN Comprehensive Predictor• RN Leadership49

Optional Enrichment Exams:• RN Community Health Nursing• Focused RN Medical-Surgical:Cardiovascular Respiratory Fluids & Electrolytes, Acid-BasePerioperative Gastrointestinal Neurosensory & MusculoskeletalImmune Endocrine Renal and UrinaryClinical Performance1. Clinical performance is graded on a Pass/Fail basis. A Needs Improvement category may beused in selected circumstances.2. The student is expected to demonstrate satisfactory clinical performance at all times,including both the on-campus Nursing Skills Laboratory and affiliating clinical rotations.3. At the end of the clinical rotation the instructor will evaluate the performance of each studentin relation to specific competencies using the Student Performance Evaluation. As part ofthis process students are expected to demonstrate foundational skills and competenciesidentified as "Overriding Critical Elements." All students progressing through the programmust consistently demonstrate competence in and knowledge of these areas.4. Students who need remediation will be given a referral to the Nursing Laboratory. Failure todemonstrate improvement will result in probationary clinical status and the preparation of anintervention contract. If, however, significant patient/client safety issues are involved,stronger disciplinary sanctions may be invoked (see Disciplinary Actions).10/201050

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthCourse Challenge PolicyStudents who believe they possess course-related knowledge and skills acquired within the last fiveyears from related nursing or medical vocations have the option of challenging that course(s) in thenursing sequence. Credit by Institutional Examination will be offered in a manner consistent with theAcademic Policy set forth in the MiraCosta College Catalog.The student must submit a written request to access this option with the Nursing Department Office.The request must indicate the course for which the challenge is submitted and a clear statement of therationale for challenge. If the request is approved the student will be required to demonstratecompetence in the area by testing. A theory examination (similar in depth and scope to the finalexamination for the course) will be administered and for courses with a clinical component, a clinicalchallenge will be scheduled.If the student is successful in the examination and receives a passing score, the student will be given aclinical challenge assignment to assess clinical competence in the challenged area. This assessmentmay include both the on-campus Nursing Skills Laboratory, and an actual patient care assignment andcare plan/case study. The student is expected to demonstrate at least the level of competence andsafety in the clinical setting that is required of students enrolled in the course.It is important to note that the student must be successful with the theory examination in order toprogress to the clinical challenge. If the on-campus Skills Laboratory is included the student mustdemonstrate safe levels of competency performance in that setting prior to the actual clinicalassignment. Both theory and clinical examinations must meet the satisfactory grading criteria for theNursing Program (see Grading Policy). The student whose challenge is successful will receive Credit(CR) for the class rather than a letter grade on their transcript.9/201051

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthUnsafe/Unacceptable Performance CriteriaNursing students are legally responsible for their actions, both those of commission andomission. Nursing faculty, the Nursing Department, and the College may also be heldaccountable for careless or unsafe student acts. Therefore, it is necessary to clarify unsafe /unacceptable behaviors.Examples of unsafe behaviors are shown below. They are organized in a manner consistentwith the Clinical Performance Evaluations used across the curriculum. They are arrangedunder the roles of the nurse as a provider and manager of care and as a member of thediscipline of nursing. Also included in the performance evaluation tool are four overarchingcritical elements or “Overriding Areas of Care” (Physical Safety, Emotional Safety, Caring,and Professionalism). These critical elements of nursing apply to every nursing situation andevery nursing student at all times. The list below is intended to illustrate examples only andis not intended as an inclusive list of all infractions.Any student, who jeopardizes the physical or emotional safety of a patient, does not providenursing care using a pattern of behavior that demonstrates caring, or exhibits unprofessionalbehavior will be subject to disciplinary actions which may include dismissal from theprogram. (For more information, please refer to the Handbook section titled “DisciplinaryActions.”)DefinitionExampleRole of the Nurse as Provider and Manager of Care SAFETY: any action or inaction on the part of the student which threatens the patient’sphysical well-being.Actions violate or threatenA. the general physical safety 1. Fails to properly position patient and bed heightof the patient2. Does not use side rails/restraints appropriately3. Leaves patient unattended without call light4. Comes to clinical unprepared for assignment5.Fails to carry out medical/nursing orders for whichthere are no contraindications6. Does not complete nursing assignment7.Fails to perform nursing skills safely or aspreviously mastered8. Unable to identify rationale for nursing actionsB.Actions violate or threatenDoes not wash hands appropriately in patient carethe microbiological safety of 1.tasksthe patient2.Fails to recognize and correct violations of aseptictechnique52

C.D.DefinitionActions violate or threatenthe chemical/pharmacologicsafety of the patientActions violate or threatenthe thermal safety of thepatient53Example3. Does not dispose of contaminated material correctly1.Violates the “Rights” and medication administrationprocedure when administering medications2. Fails to accurately prepare and monitor IV infusions1.Does not observe safety precautions during oxygentherapyFails to use appropriate safeguards when2. administering heat therapy such as hot packs orheating lamp EMOTIONAL SAFETY: Any action or inaction on the part of the student which threatensthe emotional well-being of the client or significant others.Actions violate or threatenA. the emotional/psychosocialsafety of the patient1. Uses non-therapeutic interaction techniques2.Fails to communicate respect for the patient’svalues, dignity, and culture3. Uses inappropriate names when addressing anotherDiscusses patient health problems or procedures in a4.public areaFails to recognize and respond to patient5.experiencing emotional pain or stress CARING: A pattern of behavior that pervades the nurse-patient relationship characterizedby trust, respect, and attentivenessInadequate and/or inaccurateuse of nursing processUnable to identify basic unmet human needs inA. (assessment, diagnosis, 1.assessment to arrive at a sound nursing diagnosisplanning, implementation,and evaluation)Assembles a plan for providing care that is2.unrealistic or inaccurateFails to identify and/or implement nursing3. interventions designed to alleviate an identifiedproblem or diagnosis4. Does not evaluate effectiveness of care providedDoes not observe/report/document critical patient5.B.Communication/interactionwith the patient is not“patient-centered”6.1.2.informationMakes faulty decisions and uses poor judgmentresulting in ineffective nursing careFails to explain/teach purpose or intent of prescribedactivities, treatments, or medicationsDoes not confirm patient understanding ofterminology or explanation

DefinitionExample3.Fails to include patient (or significant other)preferences in organization of care4.Does not assess response to care or comfort level atappropriate intervals5.Fails to convey interest in and concern for thepatient with words, body language, or touch6.Does not keep patient environment clean andcomfortable7. Fails to advocate for the patientMember of the Discipline of Nursing PROFESSIONALISM: A standard of conduct characterized by or conforming to thetechnical or ethical behaviors of a nurse. It incorporates honesty, integrity, courtesy, andethical compliance.Assumes inappropriateA. independence in action or 1. Performs nursing tasks or skills not yet testeddecisions2.Fails to appropriately seek assistance withassessment and/or skills3.Does not follow instructor’s guidelines for clinicalB.C.Fails to recognize ownlimitations, or responsibilityfor learningViolates ethical,professional, legal, orprocedural mandates,negating responsibility forown actions4.1.2.3.4.5.6.1.rotationPerforms procedures/tasks clearly beyond the scopeof the nursing studentFails to seek remediation for skills or information ofwhich the student is uncertainDoes not identify or seek out learningexperiences/skills needed to the clinical instructorDoes not actively participate in clinical activitiesand conferencesFails to improve deficiencies of spelling,documentation, communication, terminologyDoes not implement suggestions for improvingperformanceCannot identify own legal responsibility in specificnursing situationFails to conduct self in a professional manner inbehavior, dress, and verbal, as well as non-verbalcommunication.Fails to question identified inconsistencies in patient2. information or report changes in patient condition ina timely manner3. Does not assist peers or staff in client care areas54

DefinitionExample4. Fails to acknowledge error or blames others5.Leaves clinical unit for break without notifyingprimary care nurse6.Functions under the influence of substances or in animpaired state affecting performanceFails to adhere to the policy regarding attendance7. and tardiness (Nursing Student Handbook / clinicalorientation)8.Does not follow school/healthcare facility policiesand procedures9.Fails to keep instructor informed of significantoccurrences in the clinical settingD.Violates patientconfidentiality (possibleviolation of HIPAA/FederalLaw)1. Shares patient information on the telephone2. Photocopies client records3.Shares client information with individuals outsidethe healthcare team4. Takes photo of patient5.Puts client name and/or identifying information onstudent clinical assignments55

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthDisciplinary ActionsFaculty Expectations Regarding Honesty1. It is expected that MiraCosta nursing students will exhibit the highest standards of ethicalbehavior in their clinical and scholastic endeavors. Nurses provide care and advocacy forvulnerable populations and must conduct themselves with integrity.2. In the unlikely event that any nursing student would be guilty of cheating, she or he will besubject to the following:a. 0% on the test/assignment;b. Mandatory meeting with the entire faculty;c. Resultant probation, suspension, or dismissal.3. Students who allow others to copy their work or examinations, or who participate insupplying answers during testing/evaluation situations will also be considered as havingcommitted an act of academic dishonesty.Disciplinary Measures1. It is important for students to be aware that an instructor has the right and authority tosuspend a student or students from class if she or he feels the student in question is beingdisruptive. This procedure is in accordance with the Administrative Policy VII.E: “Rightsand Responsibilities of Students and Staff Members” from the MiraCosta College Catalog.2. Again, while it is unlikely that improper or incompetent conduct will occur, rules to governsuch conduct are necessary to protect the integrity of the program and the discipline ofnursing. The following is a summary of some major criteria that would be sufficient causefor faculty review and/or referral to the Vice President of Student Services with possibleresultant failure, suspension, or dismissal.a. Dishonesty in the classroom or clinical practice, including plagiarismb. Unethical or inappropriate conduct in the classroom and/or clinical practice settingsc. Inappropriate or disrespectful attitude or commentsd. Noncompliance with program policies and procedurese. Documented behavior consistent with substance abusef. Falsification of recordsg. Unsafe clinical behavior(s)Student Issue/Complaint ProcedureCircumstances sometimes occur to which a student feels he or she must object. Students areencouraged to discuss the specific issue with the faculty and hopefully a resolution can be achieved atthat level. If this is not satisfactory to the student, he or she should submit the complaint, concern, orissue in writing to the Director of the ADN Program. The Director will review the situation anddiscuss it with the faculty for potential resolution. The Director will then review the proposed56

outcome/resolution with the student. If the student is not in agreement with the decision, the studentmay follow the student grievance policy established at the college level.Grievance InformationAny student at MiraCosta College who feels that his or her rights have been infringed upon or whohas a significant concern has access to due process. Again, the student is expected to attempt in goodfaith resolution of the differences with the individual(s) concerned and/or at the Department level. Ifthe problem cannot be resolved within the Department the student has higher access to the "StudentGrievance and Due Process Procedure" described in the MiraCosta College Catalog.Probationary Status and Remediation / Intervention ContractsRemediation is available to all MiraCosta College nursing students who seek it. In addition, however,students who are performing poorly in the classroom and/or clinical setting will be required to obtainremediation. Tutoring as a form of remediation is provided in the following ways:• Free tutoring is available at the Tutoring Support and Academic Support Center. Tutors arestudents who have been recommended by faculty and prepared to help other students who arehaving difficulty with study methodology or course material. Tutoring is available byappointment and on a walk-in basis.• Nursing students may make an appointment with any instructor during his or her office hoursfor help with course material.• Students may come voluntarily or be referred to the Nursing Skills Laboratory to practicenursing skills or review skills with which they are experiencing difficulty.• An intervention contract will be written when a student is found to be deficient in meetingclinical and/or theory expectations or objectives.A student who is doing unsatisfactory work in the clinical and/or academic setting will be consideredon probation. It must be noted, however, that because of the seriousness of the activities in whichnursing students are engaged, it is possible that an exceptional situation could occur which wouldsignificantly jeopardize the safety of a patient and therefore result in the immediate dismissal of thestudent without possibility of return or reinstatement.Conditions of Academic ProbationThe student is expected to maintain a minimum average of 75% in all course work and meetattendance requirements. At midterm, or as soon as possible when the student’s academic success ina course is in jeopardy, the student will be made aware of his or her academic status. The facultymember may make suggestions and/or give remediation referral to the student. It is ultimately theresponsibility of the student to, not only be aware of his or her academic standing in any class, but topursue appropriate corrective actions when needed.Conditions of Clinical Probation / Intervention ContractThe student is placed on probation when the instructor identifies behaviors that indicate the student isnot meeting minimal competency requirements of the course or is deemed unsafe. Except in majorsafety violations, the student will be given a warning prior to being formally placed on probation.57

When probation is implemented the student is given an intervention contract (written unsatisfactoryinterim evaluation), which will include the following components:1. Identification of specific unmet evaluation competencies and clinical behaviors whichresulted in probation; and,2. Behaviors that must be demonstrated within a specified time period in order to be removedfrom probation and continue in the nursing program.3. Attendance at a meeting scheduled with the student, current instructor, and the director (ordesignee) to discuss the intervention contract;4. All meetings held to discuss the student’s status, progress, and/or the remediation contractwill be attended by the current instructor and the director (or designee); and,5. At the end of the specified time period, student progress will be reviewed to determine if theobjectives and specified criteria of the intervention contract have been met and the finaloutcome of probation.If the conditions of probation are not met by the specified time frame, the student will be given afailing final clinical performance evaluation. If the course is one which integrates theory and clinicalcomponents, the student will receive a failing grade for the entire course. If the student is eligible torepeat the class both clinical and theory components must be repeated when she or he is readmitted.10/201058

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthReadmission PolicyThe student who withdraws or is dismissed from the MiraCosta College Nursing Program and wishesto be placed on the waitlist for re-enrollment must notify the Nursing & Allied Health Department inwriting (e-mail is not acceptable) stating that he/she would like to return to the appropriate semesterat the first available seat, if she or he has:1. Withdrawn for personal reasons;2. Withdrawn from a course while on probationary status;3. Been dismissed for academic or clinical failure; or,4. Been dismissed for ineligibility to progress in course sequence.A student may re-enter the MiraCosta College Nursing Program only ONE TIME after failing acourse, dropping a course, or withdrawing from the program.Students who re-enter the program will be subject to all current nursing program policies as definedby the student handbook, catalog and published materials AND must fulfill all entrance requirements.The student seeking placement on the waitlist and re-entry to the program must have:1. Participated in an exit interview with the Director or designee at the time ofwithdrawal/exclusion from the program;2. Fulfilled the recommendations (verification requested) made at the time of the exitinterview;3. Been enrolled in the Nursing Program within the last two years (or repeat courseworkwill be required);4. Demonstrated dosage calculation and skills readiness for the course requested; and,5. Met all eligibility requirements with Admissions and Records.6. Pre-requisites must be up-to-date at time of readmission (re-enrollment).The student will NOT be eligible for re-entry to the program or placement on the waitlist if she or hehas:1. Failed any two courses regardless of the semester or fails the same course twice;2. Withdrawn from two nursing courses with an unsatisfactory theory average or clinicalperformance evaluation;3. Experienced any combination of 1 and 2;4. Received three overall “Must Improvement” clinical evaluations;5. Withdrawn from enrollment from the same course more than once (enrollment is definedas attending at least one class meeting); or,6. Been dismissed from the program for unsafe practice or unethical behavior, whichincludes HIPPA violations.Re-entry to the program is not automatic. Requests for re-entry and placement on the waitlist will beconsidered on an individual basis and space availability. Re-entry and placement on the waitlist isarranged using a priority standard.59

Priority List for Re-entry:Students will be given placement/reinstated as determined by space availability and student prioritystatus. The priority guidelines used by the faculty in assigning a priority status are: (from highestpriority to lowest):1. MiraCosta nursing student who dropped a class due to personal reasons;2. Transfer student who was in good academic and clinical standing in previous program;3. MiraCosta nursing student requesting return after a single academic failure;4. MiraCosta student who was failing or not in good standing at departure from program;5. Transfer student not in good standing in his or her previous program.Transfer Student Policy:Students who have previously failed in another RN program will only be allowed one entry into theMiraCosta College nursing program. They will not be allowed to re-enter if they fail, drop, orwithdraw from the nursing program.60

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthBackground Check/Drug Screen PolicySan Diego Nursing Service-Education ConsortiumProcess: Students must have clear criminal background checks and drug screens to participatein placement in clinical facilities. Students under 18 years of age are exempt from thisrequirement.1. All participating schools and agencies agree to adhere to a standardized process for clinicalinstructor/student screening.2. The background check is not a requirement for admission to a nursing program; however, theprocess will be completed after an invitation for admission is received.3. Nursing clinical instructors/students must have clear criminal background checks toparticipate in placement(s) in clinical facilities.4. Prior to clinical experience the school will verify that the following information is on file forthe assigned clinical instructor/students. (see #5)5. Background checks will minimally include the following:• Seven years residence/background history• Address verification• Sex offender database search• Two names (current legal and one other name)• Three counties• OIG search• Social Security Number verification• Search through applicable professional certification or licensing agency forinfractions if student currently holds a professional license or certification (e.g.respiratory therapist, C.N.A.)• Drug screen with urine sample6. Clinical instructor/students will be unable to attend clinical facilities for appropriate reasons,including the following convictions:• Murder• Felony assault• Sexual offenses/sexual assault• Abuse• Felony possession and furnishing (without certificate of rehabilitation)• Other felonies involving weapons and/or violent crimes• Class Band Class A misdemeanor theft• Felony theft• Fraud7. The initial background check satisfies this requirement during continuous matriculation thruthe program; should the educational process be interrupted, a new background check will berequired.61

8. For clinical instructors, an absence of more than one consecutive semester teaching willrequire a new background check.9. The clinical instructor/student will contact American DataBank atwww.sdnsebackground.com to arrange for the required check.10. Upon completion the results will be delivered to the applicant by American DataBank.11. Clinical instructor/students must provide information allowing American DataBank toconduct a background check and with authorization to share any positive or flag results on thebackground check with healthcare facilities to which students may apply or to which studentsmay be assigned for clinical nursing courses or clinical rotation (the school's clinicalaffiliates). American DataBank will conduct an internal review, verify clinicalinstructor/student information, and send any flagged or positive results to the clinical sites forreview.12. The school will advise the clinical site of the name of the clinical instructor and a list ofstudents assigned to their facility ten days in advance of their arrival.13. Upon receipt of a "positive" background check, the clinical site will make a finaldetermination whether the clinical instructor/student will be accepted into the facility. Thesite will use the same guidelines used for the acceptance/rejection of an employmentapplication in approving clinical instructor and student placement at their site.14. If the clinical instructor/student's record is not clear, the individual may be unable to attendthe clinical rotation. The clinical site will notify the campus of their denial of any clinicalinstructor/students. (Applicable BRN and/or BVN/PT guidelines will be incorporated intothese guidelines as they become available).15. If the clinical instructor/students record is not clear they will be responsible for obtainingdocuments and having the record corrected to clear it. If this is not possible the clinicalinstructor/student will be unable to attend clinical rotations.16. Clinical instructor/students may be denied access to clinical facilities based on offensesappearing on the criminal record which may have occurred more than seven years ago.17. Final placement status based on background check information is the clinical site'sdetermination.18. American DataBank shall include in any document used to obtain information from clinicalinstructor/students for the purpose of conducting a background check, a waiver and release ofliability wherein the student specifically agrees to allow school/American DataBank to sharethe results of the background check with the clinical sites to which student may apply or beassigned. The student shall further agree that such information may be used to deny thestudent from participating in clinical rotation.19. Schools shall indemnify and hold healthcare facilities harmless from any and all actions orclaims that may be asserted by clinical instructor/students arising out of healthcare facilities'rejection of any clinical instructor/student from clinical rotation based on the results of acriminal background check or any claim that such a background check was conductedimproperly. American DataBank shall be solely responsible for conducting backgroundchecks in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, including but not limited toCalifornia Civil Code Section 1786, et sequ.MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied Health62

Impaired Student PolicyNursing faculty members require nursing students to provide safe, effective, and supportivepatient/client care. To fulfill this obligation, nursing students must be free of chemical impairmentand effects of emotional illness during any part of the Nursing Program including classroom,laboratory, and clinical settings. The faculty believes the nursing student who develops signs andsymptoms of chemical impairment and/or emotional illness can be helped to recover.The nursing faculty, out of concern for the impaired student, has developed the following policy,which is consistent with the Board of Registered Nursing guidelines. Confidentiality will bemaintained.A student who, in the observation of the instructor, is exhibiting impaired behaviors will be removedfrom any classroom, laboratory, or clinical setting. These behaviors may include, but are not limitedto the following those on the following list.1. Physical impairment2. Impaired judgment3. Mental or emotional impairment4. Disruptive actions5. Inconsistent behavior patternsWhen a student, in the judgment of the instructor, is exhibiting any of the above behaviors, thefollowing actions will be taken:1. The student shall be removed from the classroom, laboratory, or clinical patient area.The student and instructor, when possible, are to meet in a private location and theinstructor shall inform the student of the sign(s) and behavior(s) that were observedand allow the student to provide a brief verbal explanation.2. A report of the observed student behaviors indicative of impairment will be preparedby the faculty member immediately, or as soon as possible, signed by the student andsubmitted to the Nursing Program Director.3. The incident will be reported immediately to the Nursing Program Director forinvestigation.4. The impaired student must arrange for safe transportation to their residence.5. The student will schedule a meeting with the Nursing Program Director and facultymember for consultation and investigation.6. The student will be referred for further professional assessment (Student HealthServices or private). The student will be given a written referral indicating theobserved impaired behaviors and an intervention contract (following page). Thisform must be signed by a qualified health care professional, indicating clearance, andreturned to the Program Director before the student may return to the classroom orclinical setting.63

7. An individual with expertise in the mental health/substance abuse area must performthe professional assessment and may not be a member of the faculty.If the student is believed to be impaired and therefore a danger to self or others, and refuses to submitto further professional assessment, the student will be dismissed from the Nursing Program. Thestudent may also be subject to suspension or expulsion from other college programs in keeping withDistrict rules and regulations.64

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthIntervention Contract: Chemical ImpairmentI, ____________________________________, will receive a comprehensive substance abuseevaluation conducted by a health care professional selected from the approved list of providers. Iunderstand that the payment for the evaluation and related costs, treatment, and follow-up care is myresponsibility. If no regular treatment is recommended, evidence of such will be provided to theNursing Department before I attempt to return to classes. If treatment is recommended, I mustcomplete the program determined by the evaluator. Written evidence of my treatment programcompletion/ability to return safely without impairment to the nursing program, and my after care planwill be submitted to the nursing faculty through the Associate Dean, Allied Health (or designee).It has been explained to me that the grade of _______ will be awarded for nursing courses interruptedby my treatment. I have also been informed that I must submit a written reinstatement request for thesemester that I desire to return to the nursing program. I understand that reentry is on a spaceavailable basis only as determined by the Reinstatement Policy and priority list in the NursingStudent Handbook. Priority list status for reentry following any chemical impairment episode will byLevel 5 (MCC students who were failing or not in good standing at departure from program). Lastly,I understand that further incidents of chemical impairment in the classroom, laboratory, or clinicalsetting will result in exclusion from the nursing program and a recommendation to the Dean ofStudent Services for College dismissal.Comments:Student Signature: _______________________________________ Date: ___________________Witness: ___________________________________Witness: ___________________________________Portions of the Contract have been adapted from:Asteriadis, M., Davis, V., Masoodi, J., and Miller, M. (1995, March/April). Chemical impairment of nursingstudents. Nurse Educator, 20, 19-22.6/200665

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthCollege Policy: Academic IntegrityMiraCosta College highly values academic integrity. At the core, this means an honest representationof one's own work. MiraCosta College also promotes the approach that education is bestaccomplished as a cooperative, collaborative enterprise: we want you to work with and learn fromeach other. The line between academic integrity and collaborative education is not always easy todefine and may vary from one discipline to the next and from one instructor to the next. Manyaspects of cheating and plagiarism are universally recognized, while others are subject to debate.This policy provides some broad, general guidelines and allows instructors to be more restrictiveaccording to their preferences and practices. Please ask your instructor for clarification of his/herexpectations.Examples of academic dishonesty include, but are not limited to:Cheating:Plagiarizing:Falsification:Facilitation:Copying from another student or using unauthorized aids during an examination.Copying someone else's work or ideas and misrepresenting them as one's own.Making up fictitious information and presenting it as real, or altering records for thepurpose of misrepresentation.Helping another student to cheat, plagiarize, or falsify.Remedies for violations of academic integrity are up to the instructor and may include a verbalwarning, a lowered assignment grade, submission of an Academic Integrity Report to the office of theVice President of Student Services or designee, or even a recommendation to the Vice President ofStudent Services for suspension from the class for repeated or egregious offenses. For moreinformation, consult the MiraCosta College Catalog under Student Rights and Responsibilities(Administrative Procedure VII.E.02.c).More information about plagiarism can be found in Section 7 (Guidelines and Regulations).10/201066

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthAcademic Integrity ReportFor any incident of academic dishonesty that is deemed sufficiently serious by the instructor, theinstructor may report the incident to the Vice President of Student Services using this form. SeeMiraCosta College Catalog: Academic Integrity at MiraCosta College.Name of Student __________________________________________Student ID# _____________Last First M.I.Date of Incident __________________ Instructor Name __________________________________Description of Incident: (Document the incident in relationship to your class policies and therecords. If you have specific class policies on academic dishonesty, please attach your syllabus orother documents.)______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________An instructor who has evidence that an act of academic dishonesty has occurred may, after speaking with the student, takeone or more of the following disciplinary actions:Action Taken (indicate at least one): Issued a verbal warning Lowered the grade for the assignmentOther (explain) __________________________________________________________________________Further Action Requested: (explain)No Further Action RequestedInstructor’s Signature ______________________________________________ Date ____________Return to: Vice President of Student Services (M/S 12)67

Section 7:GUIDELINES&REGULATIONSMiraCosta College68

Nursing and Allied HealthMedication Administration Guidelines and ProcedureThe medication procedure, which follows, is intended to insure that the “Rights” involved inmedication administration are observed. These Rights are:Right . . . PatientRight . . . MedicationRight . . . AssessmentRight . . . DoseRight . . . TimeRight . . . IntervalRight . . . SequenceRight . . . RouteRight . . . Purpose/ReasonRight . . . EducationRight . . . to RefuseRight . . . DocumentationRight . . . EvaluationDeveloping good habits when administering medications is essential in the development of safenursing practice. Toward this end, the following procedure must be followed when administeringmedications. It is recognized that faculty will need to make adaptations to make this procedureconsistent with policy and procedure in individual facilities, but the inherent principles of thisprocedure must remain intact.Organization:• Obtain the patient's medication record• Compare the medication record with the doctor's order• Obtain vital signs, blood sugar or other assessment data needed to safely administermedication• Wash handsMedication Preparation:• Assemble equipment• Check the drug label three times () before administration of the medication(1) Extract correct medication from drug cart or Pyxis(2) Verify the medication with medication record using the Rights 1-5Calculate correct dosage of drug to be givenPrepare medication for administrationTake the medication to the patientCorrectly identify the patient using 2 identifiers(3) Recheck medication with medication record• Explain the purpose of each medication as it is deliveredMedication Administration:• Administer the medication correctly and appropriately• Listen to patient comments or objections and act on them appropriately• Discard used equipment appropriately.• Record medication given.• Follow up on effectiveness of medication. 10/201069

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthNursing Student Incident FormThis form is to be filled out by the student or instructor following any incident or error involving aMiraCosta College nursing student. The instructor will make a copy for the student and will retainthe original in the student's file.Student: __________________________________________Date of Incident: _________Description of incident:If this was a medication error indicate the medication name, dosage, route, frequency ofadministration, action, side effects, and reason that it is ordered for this particular patient. If theincident was an omission of care (other than a medication) please describe the benefits of timelycompletion of the task. If the incident involved commission of an act (other than a medication),describe the possible consequences of the incident.Please indicate how the incident could have been avoided. If this was a medication error also indicatewhich of the "8 Rights" was violated. How will this incident affect your future practice?Signatures:Student Date Instructor Course10/201070

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthPlagiarism and Academic WorkHonesty in all academic work is expected at MiraCosta College. The Nursing Departmentupholds the Community College Student Code of Conduct, which specifically forbidsplagiarism. Faculty members recognize that most students do not plagiarize intentionally.This document clarifies what plagiarism is and what students can do to avoid it.What is plagiarism? Plagiarism is a form of theft. It is taking other people's ideas or wordsand presenting them as one's own work. This means all material including writtenassignments, exams, presentation materials, drawings, or any other work in any format. Evenif students do not intend to plagiarize, they are still responsible for any work on which theirname appears. If plagiarism is identified, either intentional or unintentional, students will bepenalized as determined by faculty at the time. A zero for the paper or test may be given.What do students need to cite when writing a research paper? Citing a source meansusing accepted format (APA) to indicate where students found that information. Thisincludes printed sources such as books, magazines, newspapers or journals; video oraudiotapes; broadcast media; personal interviews, or computer resources such as the Internet,on-line quotations, but also someone else's ideas put into the students' own words. The onlytime students can use information without crediting a source is when the information isconsidered to be "common knowledge," found in many sources. For example, the fact tht theHIV virus is transmitted through body fluids would not need to be cited. However, thenumber of AIDS deaths in New York City as reported in a particular study would need to becited. As a rule of thumb, if unsure, it is always better to cite courses than to assume theinformation is common knowledge.What special rules apply to using a computer? Computer sources are like other sourcesand they must be documented according to accepted format. However, while students mustdocument this type of information, they must also protect work produced on a computer. Forexample, when using a computer that may be used by others, be sure to save any work to adisk, and not to the hard drive where other students can access it.Is it okay to work with other students? Obviously, putting one's name on some else's workand submitting it for credit is plagiarism. but if students allow others to copy their work,they are just as guilty of plagiarism. Many classes, however, do include group work.Instructors who assign group work usually make it clear whether the assignment is to be anindividual or group effort. Students are responsible for clarifying the extent to which theymay work with other students preparing a final product.Is it acceptable to submit a paper done for a course taken previously for a currentcourse? Yes and no. Although the work is the student's, an assignment for one coursegenerally does not meet the requirements for another course. Talk with faculty about theassignment and the previous work. It may be possible to rework the assignment and updatethe research, but it must be done with the instructor's knowledge.71

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthATI CONTENT MASTERY ® PROCTORED ASSESSMENT DESCRIPTORSFUNDAMENTALS OF NURSINGThis 60-item test offers an assessment of the student's basic comprehension and mastery of thefundamental principles for nursing practice. Concepts assessed include: 1) foundations of practice(health care delivery, thinking strategies for nursing practiced, communication, professionalstandards, nursing through the lifespan, health assessment); 2) basic nursing care (admission, transferand discharge processes, medication administration and error prevention, safety, infection control,comfort and basic needs and care of wounds); 3) support of psychosocial needs (psychosocial, family,cultural and spiritual health, end-of-life); 4) support of physiologic needs (oxygenation, circulatory,fluid, electrolyte and acid-base balance, gastroenteral, elimination, neurosensory); and 5) healthassessment (e.g. assessment of vital signs and general and system specific assessments) The studenthas 60 minutes to complete this assessment.MATERNAL NEWBORN NURSINGThis 69-item test offers an assessment of the student's basic comprehension and mastery of maternalnewborn nursing principles. Assessed concepts include: normal and high-risk antepartum,intrapartum, postpartum and newborn care. Assessed principles include the effective use ofappropriate pharmacologic and nutritional interventions and awareness and sensitivity to culturalconsiderations. The student ahs 60 minutes to complete this assessment.NURSING CARE OF CHILDRENThis 60-item test offers an assessment of the student's basic comprehension and mastery of nursingprinciples applied to the care of children. Assessed concepts include: 1) basic concepts (familycenterednursing care, cultural awareness, physical assessment, expected growth and development,nutritional needs, implications for safe administration of medications, hospitalization, painmanagement, death and dying); 2) care of children with system disorders; and 3) pediatricemergencies and psychosocial development disorders. The student has 60 minutes to complete thisassessment.PHARMACOLOGYThis 60-item test offers an assessment of the student's basic comprehension and mastery ofpharmacologic principles and knowledge of prototype drugs. Concepts assessed may include: basicpharmacologic principles and knowledge related to the safe administration and monitoring ofprototype drugs that are used to treat infections, pain, and inflammation and that affect the blood,immune, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, digestive, endocrine, reproduction, and nervous systems.The student has 60 minutes to complete this assessment.MENTAL HEALTH NURSINGThis 60-item test offers an assessment of the student's basic comprehension and mastery of mentalhealth nursing principles. Assessed concepts may include: 1) basic concepts in mental health nursing;2) nonpharmacologic therapy of mental health disorders; 3) pharmacologic therapy of mental healthdisorders; and 4) nursing care of clients with various mental health disorders. The student has 60minutes to complete this assessment.72

NUTRITIONThis 60-item test offers an assessment of the student's basic comprehension and mastery of nutritionfor nursing principles. Assessed concepts include: 1) principles of nutrition (nutritional assessment,sources of nutrition, metabolism factors, health promotion, cultural awareness, food safety andmedication interactions); 2) nutrition across the lifespan (pregnancy, lactation, infants, children,adolescents, adults, older adults); and 3) clinical nutrition and therapeutic diets (hospital diets, enteralnutrition, parenteral nutrition, nutrition for clients with gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, diabetes,renal, cancer, HIV/AIDS, anemias). The student has 60 minutes to complete this assessment.ADULT MEDICAL-SURGICAL NURSINGThis 90-item test offers an assessment of the student's basic comprehension and mastery of adultmedical-surgical nursing principles related to the care of clients with cardiovascular, fluid andelectrolyte, reproductive, respiratory, renal, endocrine, digestive, integumentary, musculoskeletal, andneurosensory disorders and lymph, immune, and infections disorders. Assessed principles mayinclude: the effective use of all steps in the nursing process, therapeutic and effective communicationskills, client education principles, cultural competence, related pharmacology and nutritionknowledge, and a holistic approach to health promotion and disease prevention,. The student has 90minutes to complete this assessment.COMPREHENSIVE PREDICTORThis 180-item test offers an assessment of the student's comprehension and mastery of basicprinciples including fundamentals of nursing; pharmacology; adult medical-surgical nursing; maternalnewborn care; mental health nursing; nursing care of children; nutrition; leadership and communityhealth nursing. The percentage of questions from all major NCLEX® client need categories(management of care, safety and infection control, health promotion and maintenance, psychosocialintegrity, basic care and comfort, pharmacological therapies and parenteral therapies, reduction of riskpotential and physiological adaptation) will be similar to the percentage of questions on the NCLEX-RN®. This test will generate the following data: Individual Score (% correct), Predicted Probabilityto Pass NCLEX-RN®, National and Program Means, Individual Scores (% correct) within anOutcome (thinking Skills, Nursing Process, Priority Setting, NCLEX-RN® Client Need Categories,Clinical Topics). The student has 3 hours to complete this assessment.RN LEADERSHIPThis 60-item test offers an assessment of the student's basic comprehension and mastery of leadershipand management principles. Assessed concepts may include: 1) basic leadership and managementprinciples; 2) resource management; 3) quality and legal ethical issues and 4) delegation andprioritization principles. The student has 60 minutes to complete this assessment.73

MiraCosta CollegeNursing and Allied HealthSIGNATURE PAGEI have read and understand the contents of the Nursing Student Handbook. I am aware that myenrollment in the Nursing Department is governed by the terms set forth in the Handbook. It is myresponsibility to seek clarification for any area(s) of which I am uncertain or seems unclear.It is expected that any change to current policy or enactment of new policies will be communicated toclass members in writing, to be added to their copy of the Handbook.I also understand that if, for any reason, I do not maintain continuous enrollment in the MiraCostaCollege ADN Program, this edition of the Handbook will no longer be in effect. Upon reentry, theHandbook for that academic year will be required.(Academic Year 2011-2012)_______________________________________Student Name Printed_______________________________________Student Signature/ / 20 .Date74