PLATTSBURGH STATE UNIVERSITY

OF NEW YORK

 

NURSING PROGRAM

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HANDBOOK FOR NURSING STUDENTS

 

2004-2005

 

 


TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

        I.     The Nursing Program

 

A.    The Nursing Major................................................................................................................        1

B.    Nursing Program Mission, Goals and Philosophy....................................................................        1

C.    Terminal Behavioral Objectives..............................................................................................        4

D.    Requirements for the Major in Nursing--Bachelor of Science.....................................................        5

E.    Requirements for the Major in Nursing--Bachelor of Science.....................................................        6

       (Registered Nurse Option)

 

       II.     General Information

 

A.    Prerequisites to Cognate Courses..........................................................................................        7

B.    Other Information..................................................................................................................        7

 

 

      III.     Minor Programs..........................................................................................................................        8

 

      IV.     The Advising System

 

A.    Definition and Importance of Academic Advisement.................................................................        8

B.    Student Role and Responsibility in the Advising System..........................................................        8

 

      V.     Policies and Procedures

 

A.    Academic Progress Standards..............................................................................................        9

B.    Department Academic Standards Progression Policy

       1.     Generic Students, College Transfers, Change of Majors, RN Study Option.........................        9

       2.     Additional Requirements to be Met by RN Option Students...............................................      10

C.    Absence from Class.............................................................................................................      10

D.    Change of Major/Advisor Procedure...................................................................................      10

E.    Academic Dishonesty...........................................................................................................      11

F.    Program Requirements.........................................................................................................      11

G.    Rereading of Papers.............................................................................................................      12

H.    Clinical Evaluations..............................................................................................................      12

I.     Classroom...........................................................................................................................      12

J.     Laboratory:  Clinical and Nursing Skills..................................................................................      12

K.    Course Overload Policy.........................................................................................................      13

L.    Course Withdrawal Policy.....................................................................................................      13

M.   Repeating a Course..............................................................................................................      13

N.    Permission to Study at Another Institution..............................................................................      13

O.    Student Grievance Procedure................................................................................................      14

P.    Dismissal Policy..................................................................................................................      16

Q.    Grading...............................................................................................................................      16

R.    Attendance at Professional Conferences................................................................................      17

 

      VI.     Dress Code for Clinical Experience...............................................................................................      17

 

     VII.     Additional Information

 

               A.    Instructional Facilities...........................................................................................................      17

               B.    Expenses............................................................................................................................      18

               C.    Health Regulations...............................................................................................................      18

               D.    Infection Control Policy.........................................................................................................      19

               E.    Accidental Injury:  Nursing Skills Laboratory...........................................................................      20

               F.    Incident Involving A Client......................................................................................................      20

               G.    Liability Insurance................................................................................................................      21


 

 

 

               H.    Transportation......................................................................................................................      21

               I.     Provisions for Pregnant Students...........................................................................................      21

               J.     Professional Conduct............................................................................................................      21

               K.    Counseling Services.............................................................................................................      22

               L.    Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Requirement................................................................      22

               M.   Licensure............................................................................................................................      23

               N.    Employment of Nursing Students...........................................................................................      23

               O.    Placement Services..............................................................................................................      23

               P.    Financial Assistance............................................................................................................      23

               Q.    Awards................................................................................................................................      23

 

    VIII.     Honor Societies..........................................................................................................................      25

 

      IX.     The Student Nurses' Association..................................................................................................      26

  

       X.     Nursing Process.........................................................................................................................      27

 

      XI.     Rights of Students.......................................................................................................................      32

 

 

Nursing Program Directory..........................................................................................................................      33

 


I.        THE NURSING PROGRAM

 

          The Nursing Program admits both generic (basic) students and graduates of associate degree and diploma programs in nursing.  Upon successful completion of program requirements at Plattsburgh, candidates are awarded the degree of Bachelor of Science with a major in Nursing.     

 

Graduates of the generic (basic) program, are eligible for admission to the professional Nurse Licensing Examination (NCLEX/RN).  All graduates are prepared to function as a professional nurse in the delivery of care for individuals and groups in a variety of settings.  The baccalaureate program also serves as the foundation for specialization through graduate study.

 

The program is approved and registered by the State Education Department, Division of Professional Education of the University of the State of New York.  The program is fully accredited by the National League for Nursing and is an agency member of the Council of Baccalaureate and Higher Degree Programs.  The program holds preliminary approval from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.  Associated with Plattsburgh State is Gamma Delta Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau, the International Honor Society of Nursing.

 

 

 

          A.  THE NURSING MAJOR

 

In keeping with the philosophy of the Nursing Program, the program of study consists of a balance of liberal and professional education.  The student enrolled in this program  receives a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Nursing upon completion of 120 semester hours.  The nursing major, consisting of 54 semester credits, begins in the Sophomore year.  The 54 credits include 3 credits which serve to meet the College Advanced Writing Requirement.  Clinical experience begins at the sophomore level.  Courses follow a planned sequence and students are required to take the courses in sequence.  Nursing courses must be passed with a final course grade of a C, or better, before the student can progress into the next semester's nursing courses.

 

Requirements for all components of the General Education Program are described in the Undergraduate Catalog.  You should consult your academic advisor for more detailed information concerning both the General Education and the nursing major requirements.

 

 

          B.  NURSING PROGRAM MISSION, GOALS AND PHILOSOPHY

 

MISSION STATEMENT

 

The primary mission of the Plattsburgh State Nursing Program is to prepare individuals from diverse backgrounds for the practice of professional nursing in a wide range of institutional and community settings.  Another essential commitment is for faculty and students to provide service to the community and region in a commitment to social responsibility.  The undergraduate nursing curriculum is rooted in a foundation of the sciences, humanities, technology and informational literacy, complemented by a broad-based, multicultural general education program.  In service to this unique, rural region, registered nurses are provided the opportunity to continue their nursing and liberal studies in a challenging and supportive climate.  Socialization to the professional role is developed through organizational and curricular experiences and a strong interactional relationship between faculty and students.  The program’s focus on intellectual development  prepares individuals for graduate study.

 

 

PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY AND GOALS

 

The Nursing Program faculty offers a professional nursing program leading to a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in nursing.  Basic students and graduates of associate degree or diploma nursing programs are eligible for admission.  The faculty’s beliefs regarding people, health, environment, nursing and nursing education form the philosophical base upon which the curriculum is developed. 


The goals of the program are to:

 

1.     prepare nurses who are capable of practicing in a wide range of institutional and community settings, providing care to diverse populations;

2.     educate individuals as professionals who take responsibility for professional development through participation in a variety of professional activities, continuing education programs, and graduate study;

3.     develop ethical practitioners who contribute to the community through education, service, and leadership;

4.     actively recruit diverse students of high academic quality and commitment;

5.     prepare graduates who are capable of utilizing a variety of teaching-learning modalities and information technology to achieve learning outcomes; and

6.     provide clinical experiences that expose students to delivery of health care in upstate New York and the Champlain Valley.

 

PHILOSOPHY

 

 

The Plattsburgh State University provides, at the baccalaureate level, a broad range of majors and minors in the arts, sciences, business and economics and professional studies.  The University serves as a cultural, intellectual and public service center for the region.  The faculty of the Nursing Program supports the mission and goals of Plattsburgh State University.  The Nursing Program offers a professional nursing program leading to a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in nursing.  Basic students and graduates of associate degree or diploma nursing programs are eligible for admission.  The faculty's beliefs regarding people, health, environment, nursing, and nursing education form the philosophical base upon which the curriculum is developed.

 

 

PEOPLE

 

People exist as individuals, families and communities, and are viewed as primary units of varying complexity.  People are bio-psycho-social cultural beings who have dignity and worth.  Each person should be treated with respect and has the right to self-direction in making choices regarding adaptation and self-care.

 

To cope with a changing world, people utilize adaptation modes that are physiologic and psychosocial in origin.  Innate and acquired mechanisms used in adaptation are biologic, psychologic, social and cultural in nature.  People's adaptation is dependent upon and is influenced by factors including: values, beliefs, cognition, maturation, experiences, resources, sociocultural background and coping mechanisms.

 

People possess varying degrees of self-care ability.  Self-care is deliberate or voluntary behavior and may involve cultural influences, acquired knowledge and habit.  People direct self-care toward themselves or to conditions or objects in their environment in the interest of their own well being. 

 

 

HEALTH

 

Health exists on a wellness-illness continuum.  It is a state of being whereby people maintain integrity through adaptation to change and self-care activities.  The physiologic and psychosocial aspects of people's health are inseparable.  People may simultaneously exhibit manifestations of wellness and illness in either aspect of health.

 

Physiologic and psychosocial integrity is a basic need of people; any deviation from normal structure or functioning is seen as a threat to integrity.  Changes in health are generated by stressor events that one encounters during the life span.  Needs deficits or excesses may result when there is a threat to one's integrity.  People cope with these threats through physiologic and psychosocial adaptive modes.

 

 

 

 

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Through self-care, people continually adapt to change to keep a balance between physiological and psychosocial processes and to maintain optimal human functioning.  Self-care actions are instituted that are adaptive and therapeutic. These actions promote movement toward optimal wellness, meet people's need for physiologic and psychosocial integrity, and are described in terms of abilities and limitations.

 

Health care is a basic right and responsibility of people.  Health care should be valued and planned for by people.  The health care system should be flexible to meet the needs of people along the wellness-illness continuum.

 

 

ENVIRONMENT

 

The environment is composed of internal and external variables to which people respond.  The internal environment is unique for each individual and includes physiologic structures and processes as well as psychosocial components.  The external environment comprises all those natural and technological developments surrounding and affecting the evolvement of people.

 

People's internal and external environments are interactive, each  influencing and being influenced by the other.  Any environmental factor, internal or external, can act as a stressor and produce a behavioral response.  Internal and external factors influence the individual's  behavioral response to the stressor in both obvious and subtle ways.

 

The environment is potentially both supportive and disruptive of people's existence.  Supportive environments are shaped through resources of nature, education, and technological, and social change.  Environment may be disruptive because the potential for permanent disability or death is ever present related to acts of nature and the effects of technological developments.  People need to take action to prevent hazardous situations, to remove or protect themselves from those which cannot be controlled, and to modify those situations when they are amenable to control.

 

 

NURSING

 

Nursing is a discipline comprised of theory, practice, and research.  A sound theoretical knowledge base derived from nursing and other disciplines is prerequisite to the practice of professional nursing.

 

In the practice of nursing, theory is applied in a clinical setting with the goal of promoting people's adaptation, and assisting individuals, families, and communities to realize their maximum potential through promotion, maintenance and restoration of wellness.  Nursing is practiced wherever people live who require or seek help.  As a discipline, nursing is both autonomous and collaborative.

 

Professional nursing includes the use of the nursing process and the processes of communication, teaching-learning, management, and research.  The nursing process is a humanistic problem-solving approach which uses critical thinking skills.  The components of the nursing process are assessment, planning, intervention, and evaluation.   Professional nursing practice utilizes theory and skills of communication in the implementation of the nursing process and in fulfilling the roles of nursing.  Teaching learning is a major tool in facilitating clients' adaptation and self care behaviors.   The professional nurse uses the management process to coordinate resources and services that facilitate the delivery of health care to people. The professional nurse should be a consumer of research, incorporating research findings to improve nursing practice.

 

Professional nursing carries out its responsibility and accountability to society and the profession through the roles of caregiver, teacher, and leader.  As a caregiver, the nurse uses the nursing process to identify client needs and problems.  The major goal of nursing is giving care to maintain or enhance people's adaptation and self-care abilities.  The nurse teaches people how they can participate in self-care to enhance, restore, or maintain their structural integrity, functioning, and development.  Nursing provides leadership to facilitate change in policy affecting the health of individuals, families and communities.  The nurse should promote conditions supportive of individual development and self care through participation in legislative efforts to enhance economic and social well-being.

 

 

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NURSING EDUCATION

 

Preparation of the professional nurse at the baccalaureate level provides the scope of knowledge and skills necessary to meet the challenges of complex societal health care needs. Critical thinking, assertiveness, creativity, and self direction, required of the professional nurse, are emphasized throughout the general and professional education of the baccalaureate program.

 

Students have fundamental knowledge and competencies that can form the building block for baccalaureate education in nursing.  The learning needs of the RN student with previously acquired knowledge in nursing differ from the needs of the basic nursing student by virtue of prior learning and experience in nursing.  Students have different styles of learning and prior experiences that mandate a variety of teaching strategies.  A climate of learning that respects the student's value, dignity, uniqueness, and diverse educational and cultural background provides for integration of new knowledge with prior experience.

 

Selected learning opportunities will lead to the development of cognitive learning, concept attainment, psychomotor learning, skills achievement, professional values, and behavioral change.    These opportunities will facilitate recognition of the need for ongoing learning for future practice.  The baccalaureate student's preparation provides a framework for that practice  and a foundation for study at the graduate level and advanced practice. 

 

 

C.      TERMINAL BEHAVIORAL OBJECTIVES (Desired Student Outcomes)

 

          Upon completion of the program, the graduate will be able to:

 

1.       Synthesize knowledge from arts and sciences with nursing theory. 

2.       Provide comprehensive nursing care for people of diverse backgrounds in a variety of settings.

3.       Design nursing care plans, utilizing a systematic process, to facilitate people's adaptation and

          self-care potential.

4.       Appraise the effectiveness of own nursing practice as an accountable professional nurse.

5.       Exhibit leadership behaviors that enhance the quality of nursing care.

6.       Evaluate research findings to determine applicability to nursing practice.

7.       Select teaching-learning principles to promote, maintain and restore people's self-care potential.

8.       Act in accordance with professional values in making nursing practice decisions.

9.       Work in a collaborative relationship with others.

10.       Communicate effectively in a variety of modalities.

 

 

 

Revised 2002

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MAJOR IN NURSING - CURR: 202

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE

 

                                                                                                                                          CREDITS

 

GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS                                                                                  42

(The following cognate courses required for this program are taken

 as part of the General Education requirements)

CHE  101   General Chemistry (4 cr.): Distributive (the Natural Sciences)                 

BIO   203   Microbiology (4 cr.): Distributive (the Natural Sciences)

ENG  101   Composition (3 cr.): Learning Skills (Written Expression)

LIB    101   Library Research Skills (1 cr.): Learning Skills (Library Research)

MAT  161   Statistics (3 cr.): Learning Skills (Mathematics)

SOC  101   Introduction to Sociology (3 cr.): Distributive (the Social Sciences)                                         

PSY  101   General Psychology (3 cr.): Distributive (the Social Sciences)

 

MAJOR REQUIREMENTS                                                                                                          72

A.    Departmental Requirements:  (54 cr.)

       1.     Sophomore year:  (4 cr.)        

               a.     NUR 303    Nursing Fundamentals (4 cr.)

       2.     Junior year:  (26 cr.)

               a.     NUR 304    Health Assessment (3 cr.)

               b.     NUR 344    Pharmacology I (1 cr.)

               c.     NUR 356    Professional Concepts (2 cr.)

               d.     NUR 360    Care of the Childbearing Family (3 cr.)

               e.     NUR 361    Care of the Pediatric Client (3 cr.)

               f.      NUR 362    Care of Adults I (7 cr.)

               g.     NUR 363    Care of Adults II (7 cr.)

       3.  Senior year:  (24 cr.)

               a.     NUR 425    Community Health Nursing (4 cr.)

               b.     NUR 427    Research in Nursing (3 cr.)

               c.     NUR 428    Management and Leadership (4 cr.)

               d.     NUR 435    Psychiatric Nursing (4 cr.)

               e.     NUR 437    Professional Issues (3 cr.)

               f.      NUR 464    Care of Adults III (6 cr.)

 

B.    Other Cognate Requirements:  (18 cr.)

       1.     BIO  326  Human Anatomy and Physiology I (4 cr.)

       2.     BIO  327  Human Anatomy and Physiology II (4 cr.)

       3.     CHE 271  Introduction to Organic and Biochemistry (4 cr.)

       4.     FNI  211  Human Nutrition (3 cr.)

       5.     PSY 311  Survey of Human Development (3 cr.)

 

ELECTIVES                                                                                                                                6

ADVANCED WRITING REQUIREMENT

(Satisfied by the completion of NUR 437)                                                                                     _____

                                                                                                                                           TOTAL   120

ADDITIONAL DEGREE REQUIREMENTS:

A GPA of 2.0 must be earned in all required non-nursing and nursing courses.

   

 

 

 

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REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MAJOR IN NURSING - CURR: 203

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE

(REGISTERED NURSE OPTION)

 

                                                                                                                                           CREDITS

 

GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS                                                                                  42

(The following courses required for this program are taken as part of the

 General Education requirements)

CHE  101   General Chemistry (4 cr.): Distributive (the Natural Sciences)

BIO   203   Microbiology (4 cr.): Distributive (the Natural Sciences)

ENG  101   Composition (3 cr.): Learning Skills (Written Expression)

LIB    101   Library Research Skills (1 cr.): Learning Skills (Library Research)

MAT  161   Statistics (3 cr.): Learning Skills (Mathematics)

SOC  101   Introduction to Sociology (3 cr.): Distributive (the Social Sciences)                                                     

PSY 101    General Psychology (3 cr.): Distributive (the Social Sciences)

 

MAJOR REQUIREMENTS                                                                                                          72

A.    Departmental Requirements:  (54 cr.)

       1.     RN transfer student will have the equivalent of:  26 cr.

               a.     NUR 303    Nursing Fundamentals

               e.     NUR 360    Care of the Childbearing Family

               f.      NUR 361    Care of the Pediatric Client

               g.     NUR 362    Care of Adults I

               h.     NUR 363    Care of Adults II

               i.      NUR 435    Psychiatric Nursing

              j.      NUR 464    Care of Adults III

       2.     Nursing credit taken at Plattsburgh State:  28

               a.     NUR 350    Theoretical Foundations of Nursing (3 cr.)

               b.     NUR 351    Care of Families and Elderly (3 cr.)

               c.     NUR 304    Health Assessment (3 cr.)

               d.     NUR 425    Community Health Nursing (4 cr.)

               e.     NUR 427    Research in Nursing (3 cr.)

               f.      NUR 428    Management and Leadership (4 cr.)

               g.     NUR 437    Professional Issues (3 cr.)

               h.     NUR 448    Pharmacology V (1 cr.)

               I.      NUR 465    Clinical Practicum (4 cr.)

 

B.    Cognate Requirements:  (18 cr.)

       1.     BIO  326  Human Anatomy and Physiology I (4 cr.)

       2.     BIO  327  Human Anatomy and Physiology II (4 cr.)

       3.     CHE 271  Introduction to Organic and Biochemistry (4 cr.)

       4.     FNI  211  Human Nutrition (3 cr.)

       5.     PSY 311  Survey of Human Development (3 cr.)

 

ELECTIVES                                                                                                                                6

ADVANCED WRITING REQUIREMENT

(Satisfied by the completion of NUR 437)                                                                                        ____

                                                                                                                                            TOTAL   120

ADDITIONAL DEGREE REQUIREMENTS:

A GPA of 2.0 must be earned in all required non-nursing and nursing courses.

 

Must meet undergraduate semester hours residency requirement of Plattsburgh State

 

   

 

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    II.     GENERAL INFORMATION

 

 

     A.    PREREQUISITES TO COGNATE COURSES:

 

In planning your academic program of studies, you need to keep in mind certain required non-nursing courses (cognates) cannot be taken unless one has completed the required prerequisite course(s).  For the nursing major these are as follows:

 

            Course                                                                                             Prerequisite                       

 

            BIO 203            Microbiology                                                             BIO 101 or a course in

                                                                                                                   Biochemistry

            BIO 326            Human Anatomy and Physiology I                              CHE 101 or CHE 111

                                                                                                                   and BIO 101 or a course in

                                                                                                                   Biochemistry

            BIO 327            Human Anatomy and Physiology II                             BIO 326

            PSY 311           Survey of Human Development                                   PSY 101

            FNI 211             Human Nutrition                                                        CHE 101

 

 

     B.    OTHER INFORMATION:

 

Substitutions for prescribed courses in your program whether taken at this University or elsewhere must be approved by your academic advisor and the Chairperson of the Department.  You may earn credits by attending another accredited college during summer session, but you must receive prior approval for either repeating work or taking new course work.  To receive approval to take a course at another institution, students must submit a form entitled "Permission to Attend Another Institution."  Forms can be obtained from the Department Office.  The completed form(s), accompanied by current catalogs of these institutions with the course descriptions clearly marked and a current copy of your transcript, should be submitted to your academic advisor for approval.  Upon completion of the course(s) you must request that a transcript be forwarded to the Registrar at Plattsburgh.  You should check at the Registrar's Office upon return to campus to be sure that the transcript has been received and that credit has been transferred.

 

Should you decide to withdraw from the University or to apply for a leave of absence, you should consult with your academic advisor and the Department Chairperson.  The Vice President for Student Affairs is authorized to grant a matriculated student in good standing a leave of absence for the following reasons:  illness, accident, or pregnancy; financial difficulties, family problems, pursuit of approved course of study off campus by advisement of the University; career exploration; and personal reasons.  Students wishing to request a leave of absence must see a member of the Counseling Staff to determine eligibility.

 

Should you decide to transfer to another program in the University, you should consult with your academic advisor and the Department Chairperson.  Change of Major forms may be obtained from the Registrar's Office.

 

The student is responsible for consulting with the academic advisor twice yearly for registration.  In addition, should the student drop a course, withdraw from a course, or add a course, after the official advisement period, the advisor must be notified and the academic record must then be reviewed.  Students are advised that they are responsible for keeping records of credits they have earned.

 

 

 

 

 

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III.        MINOR PROGRAMS

 

In addition to your major degree program, you may pursue an approved academic minor, consisting of 18 to 24 credit hours.  You must have the approval of the chairperson of the department offering the minor, or of the program coordinator before you may formally pursue the minor program.  Courses taken to complete a minor may also count in any category of the General Education Program, or as any other requirement in the student's major.   The completion of an academic minor will be designated on your official transcript. 

 

You may inquire from your academic advisor for more information concerning academic minors.

 

 

   IV.       THE ADVISING SYSTEM

 

A.      DEFINITION AND IMPORTANCE OF ACADEMIC ADVISING *

 

"Academic advising assist students to realize the maximum educational benefits available to them by helping them to better understand themselves and to learn to use the resources of an educational institution to meet their special educational needs and aspirations."

 

Academic advising is a multifaceted activity.  Academic advising should assist individual students to realize the maximum educational benefits available to them.  It accomplishes this by: 

 

1.       Helping students to clarify their values, goals, and better understand themselves as persons.

2.       Helping students to understand the nature and purpose of higher education.

3.       Providing accurate information about educational options, requirements, policies, and procedures.

4.       Planning an educational program consistent with a student's interests and abilities.

5.       Assisting students in a continual monitoring and evaluation of their educational progress.

6.       Integrating the many resources of the institution to meet the student's special educational needs

          and aspirations.

 

 

B.      STUDENT ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITY IN THE ADVISING SYSTEM

 

Students have an important responsibility in the advising system and should take the initiative of seeking advisement and for developing close relationships with their advisors.  In order to do this effectively, students should:

 

1.       Learn the name and location of their academic advisor early in the semester.

2.       Schedule early appointments during the course selection/registration period, and be prepared for advisement (students should have a copy of the master schedule, and have an idea of the courses they plan to take).

 

3.       Attempt to clarify their interests, personal values and goals with their advisor.

4.       Become familiar with general education requirements, graduation requirements, and program requirements.

 

5.       Consult with their advisor concerning changes in their approved schedule (i.e., after being closed out of course).

 

6.       Consult with their advisor when they are in academic difficulty.

7.       Inform their advisor before changing majors, transferring to another college, or withdrawing from college.

 

 

 

*   Academic Advising Handbook

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8.       Schedule an "exit" interview with the department chairperson before changing major, or transferring to another institution.

 

9.       Accept responsibility for making their own decisions.

 

 

    V.       POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

 

A.      ACADEMIC PROGRESS STANDARDS

 

Students at Plattsburgh are expected to make "satisfactory progress" toward the completion of a degree, in order to remain in "good academic standing."  For this purpose, "good academic standing" shall mean that a student is eligible for or has been allowed to register for, and undertake, academic coursework for the semester in question.

 

At the end of each semester, the records of those students whose grades do not meet standards specified in the Progression Policies (listed below) are reviewed by the Academic Standards Committee.

 

 

B.      PROGRESSION POLICIES

 

B.1     Generic (Basic) Students, College Transfers, Change of Majors, RN Option

 

In order to progress within the nursing major, students must meet the following requirements:

 

  1.     All students must have an overall GPA of 2.5 to enter upper division courses of the nursing major.

 

  2.     All students must have a GPA of 2.0 in nursing courses as well as achieve a grade of C or better in all clinical nursing courses in order to continue in the nursing program. 

 

  3.     Students in Curriculum Code 202 must complete cognate requirements with a grade of "C" or higher prior to taking upper division nursing courses.  P grades are not acceptable.

 

  4.     Required non-nursing courses can be repeated only once.  A student may repeat no more than two required non-nursing courses within the total program.

    

  5.     Required nursing courses can be repeated only once.  A student may repeat no more than two required nursing courses within the total program.

 

  6.     All students must demonstrate satisfactory performance in both theory and clinical portions of a nursing course in order to be successful in a nursing course with both a theory and a clinical component.  Failure to successfully complete either portion (theory or clinical) will constitute a failure for the course.

 

  7.     Nursing courses taken at another institution will be considered for transfer credit.

 

  8.     Students in Curriculum Code 202 are required to obtain professional liability insurance prior to fall semester of the sophomore year.

 

              9.     All students are required to be proficient in CPR and show proof of certification annually.

            10.     All students are required to comply with health regulations.

            11.     In order to enroll in Nursing Fundamentals (NUR 303) students are expected to have completed Anatomy and Physiology I (BIO 326) and Microbiology (BIO 203) and take Anatomy and Physiology II (BIO 327) concurrently.

 

 

 

 

 

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B.2     Additional Requirements To Be Met By All RN Option Students Are As Follows:

 

  1.     All required non-nursing courses or their equivalent must be completed prior to enrollment in senior nursing courses.

 

  2.     Qualified registered nurse students can obtain credit through Department of Nursing challenge examination for NUR 304 (Health Assessment).

 

 

  3.     The registered nurse student is required to obtain professional liability insurance prior to the first nursing course with an off-campus clinical component and to maintain the policy throughout the nursing program.

 

  4.     Students are required to obtain CPR certification prior to the first nursing course with an off-campus clinical component and annually thereafter.

 

  5.     A copy of current New York RN license registration must be on file in the Department of Nursing.

 

  6.     All students are expected to attend every class and participate actively.  For every class missed beyond two classes a point may be deducted from the final grade.  The student is expected to prepare for class and be active.  Attendance will be taken.

 

  7.     Professional conduct in class is essential.  Responding to and listening attentively to others is expected.

 

  8.     Videotapes will be provided if technical difficulties prevent transmission of a class to a site.  There is to be no videotaping at the sites.  When a videotape is sent to a site because technical difficulties occurred, the tape must be viewed at the site and returned to the course instructor within two weeks.  Tapes may not be taken home.

 

  9.     When written work is sent to Plattsburgh it must include the student’s name, the location of the site, the name and number of the course, and the name of the instructor so that materials can be logged in and given to the course instructor.

 

10.     Copyrighted material may not be used in class unless permission to use the material is obtained from the copyright holder.

 

 

C.      ABSENCE FROM CLASS

 

All absences from class must be granted by an individual faculty member for his or her particular class.  The faculty member is vested with the authority to make the ultimate decision on whether or not to accept a student's excuse for planning to miss class(es)  or for having missed class(es).  However, in emergency situations such as a death in a family, serious illness or other unforeseen occurrence, a student who does not have time to notify his or her faculty member may contact the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management.  That office will notify faculty of the situation affecting the individual student.  Routine requests (i.e., long standing medical appointments) by students to be excused from classes can be granted exclusively by the faculty member, and the student need not receive a letter from the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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D.      CHANGE OF MAJOR/ADVISOR PROCEDURE

 

Students may request a change of major or advisor by completing the appropriate form, available from the Academic Deans, Center Directors, Department Chairpersons and Program Coordinators.  Students must obtain approval for a change of major from the Director, Chairperson or Coordinator of the new program.  (Students who wish to change their major or declare a major in the following programs may find it extremely difficult, due to enrollment limits, and should see the appropriate Director, Chairperson or Coordinator regarding "waiting lists," or policies for "internal transfers": Accounting, Business, Communication-Mass Media, Computer Science, Economics, Nursing and Special Education).  Assignments of an academic advisor, or a change of advisor, is made by the student's Center Director, Department Chairperson or Program Coordinator.  These individuals are also responsible for completing new evaluations for students changing into their program(s).  When changes of major occur during the registration period, students are responsible for obtaining their registration card from their old advisor and bringing it to their new advisor.

 

 

E.       ACADEMIC DISHONESTY

 

Academic Honesty:

 

Cheating, plagiarism, and lying are considered to be incidents of academic dishonesty.  Such incidents will result in implementation of the College Regulation on Cheating and may result in a grade of zero for the assignment.

 

Plagiarism is defined as a form of dishonesty that involves the presentation of another person's ideas, thoughts, or writings as one's own as well as the borrowing of facts, statistics, charts, or other information that is not widely known without giving credit to that source.

 

To avoid plagiarism, one must present proper citations of another's statements, concepts, facts, and writings.  When a direct quote is used, quotation marks must be placed around the material.  If the quote is greater than 40 words, the quote should be indented 5 spaces from the left margin and double spaced.  No quotation marks are used.  The citation source must contain page numbers.

 

Both summarization and paraphrasing are based upon the writer's ability to put another writer's material into one's own words.  A summary consists of a condensation or abbreviated version of the original material while a paraphrase consists of a writing that approximates the length of the original source.

 

BOTH SUMMARIES AND PARAPHRASES MUST BE DOCUMENTED AND THE IN-TEXT CITATION MUST CONTAIN PAGE NUMBERS.

 

 

F.       PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

 

All assignments, whether receiving letter grades or an evaluation of satisfactory/unsatisfactory, must be submitted on time in order to pass the course.  Failure to complete ANY course assignment may result in automatic failure of the course.

 

THE APA STYLE IS THE ONLY ACCEPTED STYLE OF DOCUMENTATION.  It has been modified to include page numbers for all citations.

 

This style of documentation can be found in the following manual:

 

Publication manual of the American Psychological Association. (2001). Washington, D.C.:  American Psychological Association.

 

 

 

 

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G.      REREADING OF PAPERS

 

The Handbook for Nursing Students contains a document called the Rights of Students.  Item 7 states that a student has the right to request review of a...grade if the student feels it is unfair.  In keeping with this stipulation, the faculty of the Nursing Program have adopted a policy on rereading of papers.

 

1.       A paper cannot be reread solely with the intent of raising its grade.  The student may request that a paper be reread if it has received a failing grade (C- or below) and/or the student anticipates that the grade as first assigned places the student in jeopardy of failing the nursing course.

 

2.       The student who feels that he/she meets the above criteria should discuss the matter with the grading instructor.  The student must notify the grading instructor that a second reading is desired.

 

3.       The student should then make an appointment with the Course Coordinator of the involved course to discuss this matter.  Should the outcome of the discussion be that the paper will be reread, a second reader will be found by the Course Coordinator.

 

4.       The student then is required to provide the Course Coordinator with a clean copy of the paper in question for the second reader.  The paper should contain no evaluative comments by any instructor and should bear no student identification.

 

5.       The second reader shall reread the paper, utilizing the specified evaluative criteria, and assign a grade.

 

6.       The two grades achieved on the paper shall be averaged and the average grade shall be the final grade for the paper.

 

7.       A paper may be reread only once.

 

 

H.      CLINICAL EVALUATIONS

 

Clinical evaluations cannot be photocopied and kept by students.  They are reviewed and signed by clinical faculty and students and are kept in students’ files.

 

 

I.        CLASSROOM

 

Students are expected to attend classes regularly and will be held responsible for all classwork.  In emergency situations such as a death in a family, serious illness or other unforeseen occurrence, a student who does not have time to notify his or her faculty members may contact the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs.  The faculty member has the authority to make the ultimate decision on whether to accept a student's excuse for planning to miss class(es) or for having missed class(es).

 

The New York State Education Law provides that students who are unable to attend class or participate in an examination, study or work requirements because of religious beliefs will not be penalized.  Faculty and administrative officials will provide an equivalent opportunity to make up any examination, study or work requirements which students may have missed as a result of absence because of religious beliefs.  Students who choose to absent themselves from class in order to observe a major religious holiday of their faith should not have those absences charged against their attendance record in the course.

 

 

J.       LABORATORY:  CLINICAL AND NURSING SKILLS

 

Students are required to attend all assigned clinical experiences.

 

In the event of illness, the student must contact the supervising instructor in advance of the experience.  Students should know phone numbers of supervising instructors at the beginning of a clinical rotation.  If ill, notify the instructor no later than one hour prior to the clinical experience.  If unable to do so, notify the cooperating agency.  Lack of notification will result in an unsatisfactory clinical experience for that day. 

 

 

 

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Clinical laboratory performance is deemed unsatisfactory if performance is unsafe and/or the student does not meet the established criteria. It is the responsibility of the clinical instructor to make the judgment about a student's clinical laboratory performance.  The student will leave the clinical unit at the discretion of the clinical instructor when performance has been unsatisfactory. If a student receives an unsatisfactory in two clinical experiences and/or is unable to meet clinical course objectives there is automatic failure of the course. 

 

K.      COURSE OVERLOAD POLICY

 

Students are not permitted to carry more than eighteen (18) credit hours per semester unless they have better than a 3.0 grade point average.  Permission to exceed this number of credit hours must be obtained from the student's advisor and Academic Dean.  Forms are available from the Academic Deans and the Registrar.  Approval is required any time a student's course load exceeds 18 credits, including physical education credit, independent study, or courses for which the student intends to receive an audit grade.

 

 

L.       COURSE WITHDRAWAL POLICY

 

Students who submit a completed withdrawal form (available from the Academic Deans and Registrar) shall be allowed to withdraw from any class up until the last day of the advisement/course selection period (date to be published in the College Calendar); or in the case of courses that are less than a full semester in length the midpoint of the course (date to be listed in the Master Schedule of Courses).

 

In order to be valid, the course withdrawal form must be received in the Registrar's Office on or before the published date.  Upon receipt of a completed form, the grade of "W" or "W/E" will be placed on the student's transcript but will not be computed into the student's grade point average to be counted toward graduation.

 

Students processing forms after the published date and/or desiring to withdraw from a course after the end of the withdrawal period specified above must receive the approval of the course instructor, the chair of the department in which the course is taught, and the Dean under whose jurisdiction the course is taught.  Such approvals will normally be granted only in the case of exceptional circumstances such as extended illness or circumstances beyond the control of the student.  Failing grades in courses are not considered to be adequate reasons for withdrawal.

 

 

M.      REPEATING A COURSE

 

A student may repeat a course once for the purpose of raising a grade.  The second grade earned will be used in the grade point computation, but both grades will be recorded on the student's transcript.  Students repeating a course more than once should complete the appropriate form, available in the Registrar’s Office, and obtain approval from their advisor, chairperson, and dean.  In the event a course is repeated more than once, the first grade is deleted from the GPA computation and all subsequent grades will be averaged in computing the GPA.

 

 

N.      PERMISSION TO STUDY AT ANOTHER INSTITUTION

 

Students may take courses at another institution (i.e., through approved academic programs; during the summer; or through the Visiting Student Program) for the purpose of transferring credit back to Plattsburgh.  In these cases, students should complete the form, Permission to Attend Another Institution, and have approval in advance for the courses they intend to take.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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O.      STUDENT GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE *

 

I.        Introduction

          If a student believes that he has been unjustly treated by a member(s) of the faculty, he may wish to complain in the form of a grievance.  A grievance consists of a complaint and a request for action that will remove the cause(s) of that complaint.  Unjust treatment will be understood to be treatment which results in the significant deprivation of the student's rights relative to an academic matter.  Student rights include (but are not necessarily limited to) those rights stated in the AAUP Bulletin (cf. Appendix A).  In no case should unjust treatment be confused with an instructor's right and obligation to evaluate a student's course work.

 

II.       Grievance Procedure Steps

 

A.    Informal Level

 

1.       The student should contact the faculty member(s) involved either in writing or in person to attempt an informal resolution of the grievance.  NOTE:  Every attempt should be made by both parties to resolve the grievance at this level.

 

2.       If the above step does not resolve the issue, the student should meet with the departmental chairperson who engages in further informal discussion with both parties to attempt a reconciliation.  The chairperson's decision to accept or not to accept a grievance must be conveyed in writing with a copy to the appropriate Dean.  Note:  a)  The purpose of this step is to solicit the assistance of a third party not directly involved in the grievance in hopes that a third viewpoint will help resolve the issue at the informal level;  (b) after discussing the grievance with both parties, the departmental chairperson may take this opportunity to make either a written or oral recommendation to either or both parties concerned; (c) in the event that the departmental chairperson is the party grieved, the student should meet the appropriate Dean who will inform the student of the alternate serving the chairperson's function in this case.

 

B.    Formal Level

 

1.       Filing of the Grievance Statement:  If neither of the above informal measures resolves the issue, the student should immediately prepare a written statement of his grievance and submit copies of it to the departmental chairperson (one copy each for the chairperson, grievance committee, and faculty member(s) grieved against).  This step must be completed within 45 days after the alleged unjust treatment took place.  However, if there are extenuating circumstances, the student may be allowed up to an additional 45 days in which to submit his written grievance statement provided he obtains the written permission of the departmental chairperson.  Note:  For the purposes of this procedure a day is defined as an academic calendar weekday falling during the spring or fall semesters.

 

NOTE:  The written grievance statement submitted by the student should include:

 

a)       a description of the action(s) which led to the grievance including the name of the instructor(s) involved, the course number and title, and the time and place of the alleged grievance;

b)       a list of those persons who can supply information concerning the grieved action(s);

c)       a description of any written documents related to the grievance;

d)       a statement of the relief requested by the student;

e)       a statement establishing that a good faith attempt at informal resolution has been made;

f)        the grievance should be dated and addressed to the departmental chairperson and include the student's signature, local telephone number, and local address.

 

________________________________________________

* Campus Handbook, Policies and Procedures, Revised 2002 (VIII.6-VIII.8—Student Grievance Procedure: Academic)

 

 

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2.       Acceptance of the Grievance Statement - If, in the opinion of the departmental chairperson, the grievance is not of a significant nature, or if the unjust treatment did not occur within an academic context, the grievance will not be accepted at this level and the process terminates.

 

3.       Constitution of the Grievance Committee -  Upon receipt and acceptance of the written grievance statement, the department chairperson shall have 10 days (after the date of receipt) to convene a meeting of the department's grievance committee.  This committee may be established during this time-frame or may be a standing committee already in existence.  Note:  (a) the departmental chairperson may or may not serve on this committee but both of the parties involved are disqualified from membership, (b) the departmental grievance committee should consist of three persons, it should have one and only one student, serve on that committee.  If the committee consists of five persons, it should have two and only two students serve on that committee.  At the beginning of each academic year, the chairperson of the department will select the student representative(s) to serve on the departmental grievance committee, subject to approval by the Student Association Vice President for Academics.

 

4.       Committee Meetings:  The department grievance committee should attempt to discover the relevant facts concerning the grievance.  The following guidelines apply to the meetings of the committee:

 

a)       Both the student and the faculty member should have the opportunity to meet with the committee.

b)       The student or faculty member may be represented by another member of the college community (including students, faculty and administrators).

c)       At any point in the process, the student or faculty member has the right to submit additional information to the committee.

d)       The student or faculty member may present witnesses or written statements of others for consideration by the committee.

e)       No attorneys are allowed to represent either party at any stage of the grievance process.

f)        No tape recordings or verbatim written transcripts are allowed at any committee meetings.

g)       The student's address as given in the written grievance statement shall be the official address for all written correspondence to the student.

h)       A serious attempt should be made by all of the parties involved to arrive at a prompt resolution of the grievance, if possible before the end of the semester in which the alleged unjust treatment occurred.

 

5.       Withdrawal of the Grievance Statement - The student may withdraw a written grievance statement at any time by notifying the departmental chairperson of his/her desire to do so.  In the event that this is done, the chairperson shall notify the grievance committee and the faculty member(s) grieved against of the student's decision and the grievance procedure shall stop.

 

6.       Committee Recommendations - The department grievance committee should arrive at a recommendation with regard to the relief requested by the student in the grievance statement.  This recommendation should be transmitted in writing to both parties and the Dean of the faculty within 10 (but not to exceed 20) days after the committee has been convened to consider the grievance.  Copies of the student's written grievance statement along with the written recommendation of the committee are to be kept in the departmental files.

 

III.       Appeals

 

Should the recommendation of the department chairperson (cf.II, B, 2) or the recommendation of the department grievance committee be unacceptable to either party involved, each has the right of further appeal to the Dean of the faculty.  This appeal should be made within 10 days of the recommendation of the committee.

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P.      UNIVERSITY DISMISSAL POLICY

 

Students with 0-18 Hours from SUNY Plattsburgh (First Semester Freshmen and Transfers):

 

Those students who receive a cumulative GPA between 1.6 and 1.999 will be notified by a letter from the Vice President for Academic Affairs Office informing them of their potential dismissal from the College and of the procedure they must follow to avoid dismissal in order to return on Academic Probation.  EXCEPTION:  Freshmen or Transfers who return for their second semester and fail to complete a total of 18 credits for both semesters AND have a cumulative GPA of less than a 2.0 are academically dismissed from the College.  Information on appealing this action is included in the dismissal letter.

 

Students with a cumulative GPA below a 1.6 will receive a dismissal letter informing them that they will be dismissed and giving them the guidelines for appealing this decision.  This appeal must be in writing.

 

After submitting the appeal letter, students (in this category only) will be placed on Academic Probation and subject to ALL institutional restrictions associated with this particular category of Academic Probation (contact the Assistant to the Vice President for Academic Affairs for details).  EXCEPTION:  Any student who has amassed a campus judicial file will have his/her record individually reviewed by the Academic Progress Committee to determine if their discipline record, along with their poor academic performance, warrants the privilege of returning to continue their studies at SUNY Plattsburgh.

 

Students with more than 18 Hours from SUNY Plattsburgh (Returning Students):

 

Those students with a cumulative GPA below 2.0 will receive a dismissal letter informing them that they have been dismissed and giving them the guidelines for appealing this decision.  This appeal must be in writing and must explain the extenuating circumstances which resulted in poor grades and must also include any documentation verifying the extenuating circumstances which resulted in poor grades and must also include any documentation verifying the extenuating circumstances.  Students with cumulative GPA’s below 2.0 whose appeals are accepted will be placed on academic probation.  

 

Academic Probation:

 

Students who are considered on academic probation may be subject to certain institutional restrictions and/or special programs and must give serious consideration to their precarious academic standing with the College.  Their academic performance will be reviewed at the end of the probationary semester.  If, at that time, their cumulative GPA is not a 2.0, they will be dismissed from the College.

 

Readmission After Academic Dismissal

 

Students dismissed from the University may not be readmitted to Plattsburgh for at least one full semester following their dismissal.  Students must contact the Admissions Office for information on readmission.

 

 

Q.      GRADING

 

          Grades for courses will be given in letter grades.

 

                                    A       =     93-100                                  C+     =     77-79.99

                                    A-      =     90-92.99                               C       =     73-76.99

                                    B+     =     87-89.99                               C-      =     70-72.99

                                    B       =     83-86.99                               D+     =     67-69.99

                                    B-      =     80-82.99                               D       =     63-66.99

                                                                                                E       =     62.9 and below

 

 

 

 

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R.      ATTENDANCE AT PROFESSIONAL CONFERENCES

 

Attendance at professional conferences in lieu of a clinical day is possible and may mean an additional fee for students.  Those who cannot attend a scheduled conference will have an alternative experience, e.g., nursing skills lab rather than an assignment on a nursing unit.

 

 

VI.        DRESS CODE FOR CLINICAL EXPERIENCE

 

When engaged in professional activities in the institutional setting, a navy blue warm-up jacket with monogram and name tag must be worn.

 

As a professional nursing student your attire should be appropriate for the experience.  Jeans are not acceptable attire in the clinical setting (institutional or community).  Appropriate attire also means NO sweaters while at the client’s bedside and NO colored knee socks or “footsies.”

 

In the clinical area, when caring for clients, unless otherwise indicated by the instructor, you will wear your uniform (white scrub top and white scrub pants), name pin, a neutral shade of hose for women, and white shoes.  Shoes must be clean.  A clean, wrinkle-free uniform is essential for each laboratory session.  The student must bring the following equipment to the clinical area:  scissors, watch with a second hand, pen, pencil, stethoscope and small writing pad.  For client selection, a navy blue warm-up jacket with monogram and name tag should be worn over appropriate street attire.  For community clinicals street clothes that are professional in nature (i.e., suit or dress) with your name tag are appropriate attire along with the navy blue warm-up jacket. 

 

In the clinical area, hair must be neatly arranged, make-up worn in moderation, and fingernails kept short and free from nail polish.  Long hair must be confined and maintained above the collar.

 

The pin of Sigma Theta Tau, the military pin, or the registered nurse pin may be worn in the clinical area.  No other jewelry except a plain wedding band may be worn while in the clinical area.  Earrings for pierced ears are limited to posts.  Visible body piercing is not appropriate.

 

Students are reminded that chewing gum is NOT appropriate in the clinical area.

 

 

 

  VII.     ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

 

A.  INSTRUCTIONAL FACILITIES

 

Instructional facilities include the Reserve Room/Media Services in the Feinberg Library, Damianos Nursing Skills Laboratory on the second floor of Hawkins Hall, Academic Computing and selected clinical practice facilities.  Information of student and professional interest is posted on the Nursing bulletin boards.

 

The Damianos Nursing Skills Laboratory contains equipment such as learning modules, intravenous  set-ups, mannequins, and the virtual reality venipuncture simulator.  It is available for individual practice and supervised instruction nursing skills.

 

The equipment in the Damianos Nursing Skills Laboratory has been purchased for use in the Department to facilitate the learning of the students enrolled in the nursing program. 

 

The loan of equipment will be exclusively for clinical purposes and student projects. 

 

Equipment must be signed out by the student and a faculty member on forms available in the Damianos Nursing Skills Laboratory.  Equipment must be signed out with the Laboratory Manager prior to 1500 and must be returned within 24 hours.  Students and faculty are requested not to help themselves to equipment, hardware, software, or supplies.

 

 

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In case of loss or breakage the individual signing out the equipment is responsible for cost replacement.  Under agreement with the offices of the Registrar and Bursar, grades will be withheld until satisfactory replacement of item is completed.

 

Clinical facilities for the program are provided in a variety of community and institutional health care agencies.  Clinical course work is under the direct supervision of the faculty (at all facilities used for instruction of nursing students).

 

     B.    EXPENSES

 

Nursing students have the same general expenses as any other students in the College:  tuition, fees,  books, and supplies, room and board, health insurance, travel to clinical facilities, and overnight lodging when the clinical experience so requires.

 

In addition, it is recommended that each student purchase two uniforms and two to three monograms. Only uniforms approved by the Department will be allowed.  The uniform consists of a white scrub top, white scrub pants, and a navy blue warm-up jacket.

 

The cap is not a required part of the student uniform, but may be purchased with the uniform.  The student has the option of wearing the cap in the hospital and nursing home.  The black ribbon is worn only upon graduation.

 

It is required that you purchase a name pin to be worn for identification purposes.

 

Students are required to purchase a pair of bandage scissors, a stethoscope, and a watch with a second hand.

 

     C.    HEALTH REGULATIONS

 

Students must submit evidence of current health profile including up-to-date immunizations, prior to Fall semester of sophomore year, with annual health profile thereafter.

 

All students must meet the health requirements of the Department and affiliating clinical agencies.  A health form provided by the Department must be on file each year before a student may take a nursing course with an off-campus clinical laboratory experience.  Many health care organizations require students practicing in their agencies to receive the Hepatitis B vaccination or sign a declination statement as a condition of practice in the facility.  The Hepatitis B vaccination is a safe and effective method of preventing Hepatitis B infection.  Questions about this health facility vaccination requirement should be directed to the Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital Medical Center, Plattsburgh, New York, (518) 561-2000.  It is the student’s responsibility to know and meet current health regulations.  Health forms can be obtained from the Nursing Office, Hawkins 215A.

 

As recommended by the State Departments of Education and Health, all nursing students are required to have the following:

 

   1.       a basic series of DTP or Td (tetanus and diphtheria toxoids),

2.       a Td booster within the past ten years,

3.       MMR (measles, mumps, rubella).  As per New York State Public Health Law Article 21, Title VI,

          Section 2165, all students born after January 1, 1957 must be immunized for MMR and have proof of such immunization.

4.       PPD (Positive Protein Derivative) test for tuberculosis and, if positive, a chest X-ray.  The test must be repeated annually, unless otherwise indicated.  (Tine Test is not acceptable.)

5.       Hepatitis B vaccine is strongly recommended.  Hepatitis B is a preventable infection through this immunization.

6.       A Varicella (chickenpox) titer or history of having had the disease.

7.       All personal health data is safeguarded and will remain confidential.

 

 

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Health policies are reviewed annually, and it is your responsibility to know and meet current health regulations.  Physical examination forms will be available from the Department Office and specify the information required.  You are responsible for obtaining the physical examination and required immunizations from your own nurse practitioner or physician.  Completed health forms must be received by the Department by the required due date.  Without complete documentation, clinical participation will be denied.

 

If a student is ill, the student must have a written statement from a physician of ability to return to class and/or clinical laboratory following absence of five academic days.  This statement must be presented by the student to the Department Office.

 

 

D.      INFECTION CONTROL POLICY

 

While practicing in clinical facilities and agencies, nursing students may be providing care to clients with drug resistant infections, Hepatitis, HIV infections and be involved in potentially infective treatments or procedures.  To protect both the student and the faculty, the following guidelines will be strictly observed.

 

1.       Students will implement Standard Precautions and comply with the Center for Disease Control “Guidelines for the Prevention of Bloodborne Diseases to Health Care Workers.”  Prior to clinical experience, the students will receive lecture and laboratory instruction in these guidelines.

 

2.       Handwashing will be performed between patient contacts, immediately after gloves are removed, and whenever contaminated with secretions, or other body fluids.

 

3.       Sharp items (needles, scalpel blades, and other sharp instruments) should be considered as potentially infective and be handled with extraordinary care to prevent accidental injuries.

 

4.       Disposable syringes and needles, scalpel blades, and other sharp items should be placed into puncture-resistant containers located as close as practical to the area in which they are used.  To prevent needlestick injuries, needles should not be recapped, purposefully bent, broken, removed from disposable syringes, or otherwise manipulated by hand.

 

5.       When the possibility of exposure to blood or other body fluids exists, routinely recommended precautions should be followed.  The anticipated exposure may require gloves alone, as in handling items soiled with blood or equipment contaminated with blood or other body fluids, or may also require gowns, masks, and eye-coverings when performing procedures involving more extensive contact with blood or potentially infective body fluids, as in some dental or endoscopic procedures or postmortem examinations.  Hands should be washed thoroughly and immediately if they accidentally become contaminated with blood.

 

6.       To minimize the need for emergency mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, mouth pieces, resuscitation bags, or other ventilation devices should be strategically located and available for use in areas where the need for resuscitation is predictable.

 

7.       Pregnant health care workers are not known to be at greater risk of contracting HIV infection, however, if a pregnant health care worker develops HIV infection during pregnancy, the infant is at increased risk of infection resulting from perinatal transmission.  Because of this risk, pregnant health care workers should be especially familiar with precautions for the prevention of HIV transmission.

 

8.       Hepatitis B vaccine is available to health care workers who have contact with blood and body fluids.  Contact the Employee Health Office for scheduling.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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E.       ACCIDENTAL INJURY:  NURSING SKILLS LABORATORY

 

POLICY

 

1.       Accidental injuries within the Damianos Nursing Skills Laboratory complex shall be reported immediately to the Laboratory Manager or faculty.

2.       Basic first aid will be instituted under guidance of laboratory personnel.  Additional care, as necessary, will be recommended.

3.       Documentation of injury occurrence and care is to be completed on official college form "Report of Accident or Injury."

a)       For injuries incurred by students, the form is to be forwarded to college administration at the discretion of the Laboratory Manager.

b)       For injuries incurred by faculty, the form is to be forwarded to SUNY Plattsburgh Environmental Health Officer by the Laboratory Manager.

c)       Accident forms, including a copy of each form forwarded to other offices, shall be retained in Nursing Skills Laboratory files for a period of seven years from date of injury.

 

 

 

PROTOCOL FOR CUTS AND/OR NEEDLESTICK INJURY

 

1.       Notify laboratory manager or instructor immediately.

2.       Institute first aid measures:

a)       Firstaider will:

(1)        wash hands thoroughly with warm water and Hibiclens

(2)        use Universal Precautions when appropriate (in presence of blood).

b)       Wash area of injury thoroughly with warm water and Hibiclens.

c)       Apply antiseptic (Hibiclens or Betadine) to injured area.  Verify allergy history for iodine (Betadine) sensitivity.

d)  Bandage protectively.

3.       Document

a)       Complete the State University of New York Report of Accident or Injury form.

b)       Specify first aid treatment given.

c)       Indicate date of last tetanus toxoid injection.

4.       Recommend further treatment if deemed necessary; for example,

a)       Encourage update of tetanus toxoid if needed

b)       Physician care

5.       Counsel regarding incident prevention.

 

 

F.       GUIDELINES FOR ACTION FOLLOWING AN INCIDENT INVOLVING A CLIENT

 

Definition:  An incident is any unusual occurrence that involved the student and client.

Procedure:

1.     All incidents involving the student and client must be reported to the supervising faculty as soon as possible.

2.     The supervising faculty will assist the student in consulting with agency personnel and in completing the appropriate form.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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            G.      LIABILITY INSURANCE

 

Nursing students are required to have liability insurance coverage, minimum amount of $100,000 for each occurrence and $300,000 for general aggregate, before their clinical experiences.  STUDENT NURSES CAN BE SUED!  The following companies provide this at very reasonable rates:

 

1.       Nurses Service Organization

          4870 Street Road

          Trevose, PA  19049                                                        Telephone:  1-800-247-1500

 

2.       Student Nurses Liability Insurance

Cotterell, Mitchell and Fifer, Inc.

151 William St.

New York, NY  10038                                                     Telephone:  1-800-221-4904

 

3.       For NSNA Members Studying to Become Registered Nurses

Professional Buyers Guild, Inc.

Five Airport Road

Lakewood, NJ  08701                                                     Telephone:  1-800-545-4724

     

 

            H.      TRANSPORTATION

 

Students must provide their own transportation to and from their assigned clinical experiences.  The student is responsible for overnight lodging when such arrangements are necessary during the clinical experience. 

 

You will receive additional information concerning requirements for clinical experiences at the end of your sophomore year.

 

I.        PROVISIONS FOR PREGNANT STUDENTS

 

The pregnant student is encouraged to continue in the nursing curriculum if she is enjoying a normal pregnancy.  Provisions for revision of your program can best be made if you confer with your academic and course group advisors as soon as you are aware of your pregnancy.

 

To assure that your continuation in the program is physically and academically sound, it is required that you obtain written authorization from your physician and approval of the Department Chairperson to continue.  The necessary authorization forms may be obtained in the Nursing Office.

 

If at any time in the pregnancy it is physically detrimental for you to continue in the program, it is your responsibility to notify your advisors.

 

The student who is pregnant is required to provide herself a maternity uniform. 

 

 

            J.       PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT

 

Students and faculty are expected to follow the Code for Nurses and Professional Practice Guidelines of the American Nurses Association.

 

American Nurses Association Code for Nurses

 

1.     The nurse provides services with respect for human dignity and the uniqueness of the client unrestricted by considerations of social or economic status, personal attributes, or the nature of health problems.

 

 

 

 

 

-21-


 

2.     The nurse safeguards the client’s right to privacy by judiciously protecting information of a confidential nature.

 

3.     The nurse acts to safeguard the client and the public when health care and safety are affected by the incompetent, unethical, or illegal practice of any person.

 

4.     The nurse assumes responsibility and accountability for individual nursing judgments and actions.

 

5.     The nurse maintains competence in nursing.

 

6.     The nurse exercises informed judgment and uses individual competence and qualifications as criteria in seeking consultation, accepting responsibility, and delegating nursing activities to others.

 

7.     The nurse participates in activities that contribute to the ongoing development of the profession’s body of knowledge.

 

8.     The nurse participates in the profession’s efforts to implement and improve standards of nursing.

 

9.     The nurse participates in the profession’s effort to establish and maintain conditions of employment conducive to high quality nursing care.

 

10.   The nurse participates in the profession’s effort to protect the public from misinformation and misrepresentation and to maintain the integrity of nursing.

 

11.   The nurse collaborates with members of the health professions and other citizens in promoting community and national efforts to meet the health needs of the public.

__________________________________________________________________________

SOURCE:  American Nurses Association, Code for Nurses (Kansas City, MO: Author, 1985).

 

 

            K.      COUNSELING SERVICES

 

Counseling services are available through the Psychological Services Center.  Staff members in this center are trained to assist students who are experiencing serious emotional problems.

 

Counseling is done in individual, or in group settings, as appropriate.  Client information is treated as confidential.  Consult your academic advisor for a referral to these services, if necessary.

 

 

L.       CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITATION (CPR) REQUIREMENT

 

Students are required to meet the CPR requirement prior to the first nursing course with an off-campus clinical component and annually thereafter.  This requirement may be met by any one of the following routes:

 

1.       American Heart Association course, or renewal of such

2.       American Red Cross course, or renewal of such

3.       Validation through place of employment (e.g., Inservice Education Department of hospital)

4.       Validation through performance in a health-related training program (e.g., Emergency Medical Technician training)

5.       Completion of academic course offering, credit or non-credit bearing (e.g., one-credit course offered on campus or self-paced course offered on campus--contact Physical Education, Athletics and Recreational Sports Department)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

-22-


 

            M.    LICENSURE

 

In order to be eligible for admission to the licensing examination in New York State, students must have graduated from the nursing program.  The Department must validate that the student has graduated in order to qualify for the professional nursing licensure exam (NCLEX-RN).   A candidate for licensure who has applied for New York State licensure and paid the license fee may be issued a limited permit to practice nursing in the state while meeting licensing requirements. 

 

           

            N.      EMPLOYMENT OF NURSING STUDENTS

 

You are encouraged to bring questions regarding employment in a health-related position to your academic advisor.  Your academic advisor will inform you of the legal implications and liability of employment in a nursing capacity while enrolled as an undergraduate.

 

 

            O.      PLACEMENT SERVICES   

 

The Career Development Center will help you secure employment after graduation, and the faculty are available for consultation regarding your educational or employment plans.  Information about graduate programs in nursing at various colleges and available positions for graduate nurses are posted on the departmental bulletin board.  

 

For other information not included in this handbook, nor in your undergraduate catalog, consult your faculty advisor and the Department Chairperson.

 

 

            P.      FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

 

Nursing students are eligible for scholarships, loans, and grants available to all college students.  These programs are described in the Undergraduate Catalog.  For more information about Financial Aids and scholarships, you should consult with the Financial Aid office staff in Room 406, Kehoe Administration Building (telephone 518-564-2072).

 

 

            Q.      AWARDS

 

The Grace Appleton and Leo Schiff Awards are designated for graduating seniors.  Other awards are given as scholarship money during each academic year.  Students may apply for these awards by writing a letter to the chairperson of the department describing their academic accomplishments and financial need (if applicable).

 

The Grace Appleton Excellence in Nursing Award.  An award to senior nursing student(s) who have/has demonstrated academic excellence in the discipline of nursing.  The award is based on faculty recommendation.  Criteria:

1.       Outstanding application of theory in a variety of health care settings.

2.       Nursing leadership activities. 

3.       Membership in National Student Nurses Association or other professional organizations.

4.       College GPA of 3.0.

5.       Nursing GPA of 3.5.

 

The Arkell Hall Foundation Inc.  Scholarships shall be awarded to academically qualified students who are residents of Montgomery County (or contiguous counties) and who demonstrate financial need.

 

 

 

 

-23-


 

The Gary and Kimberlee Baker Endowment Fund.  A scholarship limited to junior nursing majors.  Selection of student awardee(s) shall be made by the Academic Standards Committee of the Department of Nursing, according to the following:

1.       Applicants should have minimum grade point average of 3.0 in nursing and demonstrated

          dedication and achievement in their studies.

2.       The scholarship may be granted to a student in recognition of diligent effort and personal concerns and attributes as determined by the committee.

 

             The Emery F. Cyphers Endowment Fund for scholarships, faculty and student travel, and purchase of

             equipment and supplies.

 

The Dr. and Mrs. Xenophon Damianos Endowment Fund.  Scholarships shall be awarded to academically qualified students who demonstrate financial need.

 

The Elva O. Guilbault Scholarships.  Financial aid to full-time matriculated freshman or transfer students in nursing or other designated majors with a high school average of 80 or minimum 2.0 GPA.  Students must be legal residents of Clinton County and financially needy.

 

The Michele Martin Award.  The Michele E. Martin Endowment Fund was created in 1999 to establish the Michele E. Martin Scholarships.  The scholarships shall be awarded to full-time students (12 credits or more per semester) who are enrolled in the Nursing Program.  The nominees shall have completed at least two semesters of work as nursing majors at Plattsburgh State and must show promise of becoming leaders in the nursing profession, must possess a grade-point average of at least 3.0, and have demonstrated financial need.  Scholarships shall be awarded to qualifying students regardless of color, race, creed or gender.  Eligibility for receipt of scholarships and the amount of each award based upon these restrictions shall be solely determined by a special committee of faculty from the Nursing Program.

 

The Fred and Lillian Merrihew Scholarship.  Financial aid to nursing and other students residing in Clinton, Franklin or Essex County.  Student must have a 2.0, or above, GPA and demonstrate financial need.

 

The Leo Schiff Award is limited to senior nursing students based on excellence in nursing.  This is awarded to a graduating senior selected by the nursing faculty.  The criteria for determining excellence in nursing are:

1.       grade point average of at least 3.5,

2.       written recommendation from at least one nursing faculty member
dealing with the student's:

a)       ability to relate on an interpersonal level with peers, clients, other members of the health team, and faculty,

b)       application of theory to nursing practice, and leadership potential.

 

The Katie Sames/Meadowbrook Healthcare Scholarship for upper-level nursing students who are residents of Clinton County.  The award is based on academic achievement and a demonstrated interest in the fields of gerontological or rehabilitative nursing.

 

The Dorothy Brooks Stafford Endowment Fund.  An award made on the basis of financial need to a nursing major student, preferably an upper level student.

 

The U.S. Army Nurse Corps Spirit of Nursing Award recognizes excellence in nursing by honoring exceptional students.  The faculty-nominated student also becomes a candidate for the national Spirit of Nursing Award.  Given in conjunction with the National Student Nurses Association.

 

The Julia O. Wells Memorial Education Foundation, Inc. Scholarship is awarded to nursing students based on financial need.

 

 

 

 

 

-24-


VIII.      HONOR SOCIETIES

           

Sigma Theta Tau

 

Sigma Theta Tau was founded in 1922 by six students in the Indiana University Training School for Nurses.

 

The name was chosen using the initials of the Greek words STORGA, THAROS, TIMA.  These words mean love, courage, and honor.

 

The Organization has grown to more than 65,000 members and 162 chapters.  Sigma Theta Tau is a member of the Association of College Honor Societies and is professional rather than social in its purposes.

 

The Gamma Delta Chapter at Plattsburgh was chartered in 1976.

 

Membership in Sigma Theta Tau is an honor conferred on students in baccalaureate and graduate programs who have demonstrated excellence in their nursing programs.  Graduates of baccalaureate programs who demonstrate excellence in leadership positions in nursing are also eligible for membership consideration.

 

             The purposes of Sigma Theta Tau are to:

 

               1.       recognize superior achievement,

               2.       recognize the development of leadership qualities,

               3.       foster high professional standards,

               4.       encourage creative work, and

               5.       strengthen commitment to the ideals and purposes of the profession.

 

 

Alpha Sigma Lambda

 

The society honors those dedicated adult students who accomplish academic excellence while facing competing interests of home and work.  Eligibility requirements include a 3.5 cumulative GPA, 30 credits taken at Plattsburgh State, 15 of the accumulated college credits in courses outside of the major.  At least 15 credits of the total credits should be earned in courses in Liberal Arts/Sciences, not including applied Arts/Science courses.  Accepted transfer courses may be used to meet the Liberal Arts/Science requirement.

 

 

Omicron Kappa Delta

 

Membership into Omicron Delta Kappa, a national leadership honor society, is awarded primarily to undergraduate junior and senior students.  Exemplary character, responsible leadership and service in campus life, and outstanding scholarly ability are indispensable qualifications for membership.

 

 

Phi Eta Sigma

 

This is a national honor society for college freshmen.  Its goal is to encourage and reward high scholastic achievement among freshmen in institutions of higher learning.  To be eligible for membership you must earn a GPA of 3.5, or better, for any curriculum period during your first year in college.  Membership in Phi Eta Sigma provides the student an opportunity to join other scholars on the campus in promoting academic excellence.

 

Phi Kappa Phi

 

The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi is a national, multi-disciplinary honor society.  It recognizes junior, senior, and graduate students of good character who, scholastically, are at the upper five to ten percent of their class.

 

 

-25-


   IX.     THE STUDENT NURSES' ASSOCIATION AT PLATTSBURGH STATE (SNAPS)

 

The faculty support and encourage participation in SNAPS.  Active membership in the association is one of the most effective educational experiences, away from the classroom, that will develop your professional involvement and participation in the ongoing affairs of the nursing profession.

 

The purpose of the SNAPS includes assuming responsibility for contributing to nursing education in order to provide for the highest quality health care.  Functions of the SNAPS include the following:

 

1.       To have direct input into standards of nursing education and to influence the education process

2.       To influence health care, nursing education and practice through legislative activities, as appropriate

3.       To promote and encourage participation in community affairs and activities toward improved health care

4.       To represent nursing students to the consumers, to institutions and other organizations.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

-26-


X.    Nursing Process

 

 

DEPARTMENTAL STATEMENT ON THE NURSING PROCESS

 

            The Nursing Process is a method for organizing and delivering nursing care.  The purposes of the nursing process are to identify the client's health care needs, to establish a nursing care plan to meet these needs, to complete the nursing interventions designed to meet the needs and to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions.  If the interventions are ineffective, the original plan of care will be modified by using alternative interventions.              

 

ASSESSMENT

 

            Assessment is the process of data collection in order to determine the client's status.  The client may be the individual, family or community.  Data is collected via the interview process, the physical examination, and various tests in the physiological and psychosocial, cultural, and spiritual realms.

 

ANALYSIS

 

            The analysis consists of a discussion which addresses the medical diagnosis (physio or psychopathology) and the related client needs and/or problems.  The analysis integrates theoretical concepts and be documented appropriately.

 

            Analysis is the examination and exploration of the collected  data in order to determine the client's health care needs (problems) and self-care level.  Data are clustered using Gordon's functional health patterns and compared to norms and standards and judgments made concerning deviations.  The causative or etiological factors are identified by exploring data that influence or contribute to the health problems or concerns. The client's assets and limitations are examined in relation to the client's developmental level and the psychosocial, cultural and spiritual variables that are present in the unique situation. A conclusion will be drawn regarding the client's self-care deficits as well as the client's abilities to maintain health care.  These conclusions will determine the client's needs for nursing intervention. 

 

NURSING DIAGNOSIS

 

            A nursing diagnosis is a statement of a judgment or conclusion resulting from the analysis and the synthesis of the data.  It contains an actual or potential health problem or response to a health problem, which a nurse can treat independently by virtue of one's education and legal status.  The nursing diagnosis guides the subsequent development of the care plan.

 

            Students beginning to write nursing diagnoses will work from the accepted taxonomy developed by the North American Nursing Diagnosis Association (NANDA).  As the student advances in the program, it may be acceptable to develop new diagnoses not yet in the taxonomy.

 

            The nursing diagnosis is a two-part statement.  The first part specifies the problem.  It is followed by the words "related to."  The second part of the statement contains the etiology of that problem.  The etiology is an environmental, physiological, psychosocial, cultural, or spiritual factor believed to be related to or contributing to the problem.  It is not necessary to use a taxonomy category for the "related to" part of the diagnosis.

 

            The student beginning to write nursing diagnoses will be expected to write a statement containing the statement of the problem and its etiology. 

 

Example:      Ineffective coping related to fear of fatal illness.

 

Example:      Alteration in parenting related to ineffective maternal-infant bonding.

 

 

 

 

 

-27-


            By the end of the first sophomore nursing course (NUR 303), it will be expected that the diagnoses written will reflect increasing specificity.  This is done by using a defining characteristic following the problem portion of the statement.

 

Example:      Ineffective coping:  *use of denial related to fear of fatal diagnosis.

 

Example:      Alteration in parenting: *inability to hold baby close to body or develop eye contact related to impaired maternal-infant bonding.

 

                   *the underlined areas represent the defining characteristics of the problem

 

Where possible, the problem portion of the statement should indicate the degree to which the problem is present by use of modifiers or qualifying phrases which precede or follow the problem.  Terms that may be useful include:  alteration in, potential, possible, acute, moderate, excess, increased, less or more than, impaired, ineffective, disturbance in.

 

The statement of etiology may contain more than one factor. As the student gains experience, the relevant multiple factors involved will be expected in the diagnosis.

 

Example:      Ineffective coping, use of denial, related to fear of fatal diagnosis and lack of family support.

 

Example:      Alteration in parenting, inability to hold baby close to body or develop eye contact, related to impaired maternal-infant bonding and mother's low self esteem.

 

Example:      Acute constipation related to decreased fluid intake and decreased physical activity as evidenced by dry, hard stools.

 

In some selected situations, a diagnosis may not contain an etiology because this is unknown or where it is obvious as in "Rape Trauma Syndrome" or Ineffective Thermal Regulation for medical diagnosis of fever of unknown origin.

 

            In certain select situations, it may be possible to write a diagnosis with more than one problem.  This would be most feasible when the problems are extremely similar and would require the same interventions, such as in "fear and anxiety."  It is generally recommended that each diagnosis contain one problem to facilitate development of separate outcomes for objectives.   

           

            The nursing diagnosis should not:

1.       contain a medical diagnosis

2.       contain nursing interventions

3.       say the same thing on both sides

4.       set the "blame" on anyone as a cause of a problem

 

GOALS AND OUTCOMES

 

            Each care plan developed should have goal and outcome criteria that are sufficient in number for the particular nursing diagnosis being addressed.  The goal ties back to the first component of the nursing diagnosis (i.e., problem).  The goal states the overall change desired.  It is measured by the outcome criteria.  Outcome criteria are written to reflect each component of the diagnostic statements if this is appropriate.  Each outcome criterion statement should contain the following elements:

 

1.       client-centered (who)

2.       a measurable behavior (what the nurse expects to observe after interventions are implemented)

3.       measurable criteria (how the nurse is going to determine if the expected behavior has been accomplished)

4.       time frame

 

 

 

 

-28-


            In addition, the criteria should be written in a clear and concise manner and they should be realistic for the client, nurse, other resources and the time frame established.  There should be more than one criterion to determine if the behavior has been accomplished.

 

Example:             Goal—Improved Parenting

 

                           (Ms. Jones (who) will show increased maternal-infant bonding

Outcome             (bonding (behavior) within two weeks (time frame) as evidenced by:

 

(1.      maintaining eye contact with Baby Jones

Criteria                (2.      holding Baby Jones cuddled against her chest while feeding him his bottle

(3.      verbalizing to Baby Jones during feeding/changing and playing with him

 

Example:             Goal—Client will have relief of constipation

 

                           Outcome—Within 48 hours client will pass a soft, formed stool.

 

 

INTERVENTIONS

           

            The nursing interventions for a given care plan must be appropriate for the nature of the problem and the particular client for whom the plan is designed. In other words, the interventions should reflect individualization to this unique person and problem.

           

            Interventions also must be specific so that they provide sufficient direction for another nurse who might implement the plan.

 

Example:          Unacceptable:   Encourage fluids

 

                        Acceptable:       Provide 2000 ml of oral liquids over 24 hours

                                                Days: 1000 ml

                                                Eves: 500 ml

                                                Nights: 5OO ml

 

Example:          Unacceptable:   Provide support

 

Acceptable:       Visit client for a minimum of 5 minutes every two hours

                                                Sit by bedside

Use open-ended questions and reflect feeling tones, especially when

     talking of illness

 

Example:          Unacceptable:   Ambulate client more

 

Acceptable:       Increase ambulation to minimum of 100 feet, 2 times per shift,

                             nights excluded.

 

 

            Nursing interventions may be dependent (implementation of medical orders), interdependent (activities carried out with other health team members), or independent (activities carried out by the nurse without orders from the physician).

 

            Nursing interventions are derived from a scientific base. Each intervention must be accompanied by a rationale that supports the use of the intervention in this particular situation.  The rationale is a scientific principle derived from the nursing knowledge base, which includes the natural and behavioral sciences and humanities.  Interventions must be classified according to the following categories:

 

Diagnostic—ongoing assessment

Therapeutic—treatment measures

Educative—teaching activities

 

-29-


 

            The nursing care plan must be categorized according to the client’s self care status.  This includes the following:     

 

            Wholly compensatory—the client requires total care from the nurse

            Partially Compensatory—nursing care is mutually shared by the client and nurse.

            Supportive-educative—the client is able to perform or needs to learn to perform specified self-care measures.  Nursing interventions may be educative, supportive, or consultative in nature.

 

 

EVALUATION

 

            Evaluation consists of the provision of evidence of the degree to which the client was able to fulfill the outcomes. Evaluation does not include a discussion of the interventive strategies used and their degree of success or usefulness in the plan.

            The evaluation must contain data that validate the progress made toward the attainment of the outcome.

 

Example:

 

            EVIDENCE:           Within 2 days, Mr. X

1.       walked 25 feet in the morning, 35 and 30 feet respectively in the afternoon and evening

2.       sat in the chair 1 hour in the morning and afternoon and in the evening

 

Example:

 

            EVIDENCE:           Within 16 hours client passed a large amount of moderately soft, formed stool.

 

If a plan was unsuccessful, the evaluation should include a discussion of what factors may have contributed to the inability to fulfill the outcomes.  When a plan has not been satisfactorily completed, the evaluation should also contain proposals for alternate interventions.            

 

 

The care plan should be set up in the following format:

 

Nursing Diagnosis:

 

Self-Care Status:

                                                                                                                                                                

 

Outcome Criteria                     Interventions                       Rationale                          Evaluation

(including who,                                                                      (documented)

expected behavior,                     Diagnostic

criteria, and time

frame)                                       Therapeutic

 

                                                Educative

 

 

 

 

 

Revised:  6/99                                                                           

 

 

 

 

 

 

-30-


NURSING CARE PLAN GUIDELINES

 

Client Initials:                                                                                                                                                                       

Nursing Diagnosis:              Potential for Alteration in Role Performance Behavior (Bonding) related to addition of new family member as evidenced by malattachment                                                                                                                               

                                         behaviors.                                                                                                                                   

Level of Care:                                                                                                                                                                       

                                         Supportive-Educative                                                                                                                   

                                                                                                                                                                                          

        Objectives and Outcome                               Interventions (include                            Rationale (document     

          Criteria (include time                                diagnostic and educative                            references used)                                             Evaluation

        frame and measurability)                                      interventions)

                                                                                                                                                                                          

 

 Prior to discharge the couple will            Diagnostic                                          The process of attachment is the same      At the time of discharge the family exhibited

 become acquainted with their neonate    Assess interactions of the couple         in all situations and indicates when                                                            signs of attachment by naming infant,

 and display signs of attachment as         with the newborn for indications of         additional nursing intervention and                                                            making eye contact and talking to infant.

 evidenced by :                                      attachment or malattachment.              and follow-up at home is needed.

     Eye contact                                                                                               Lowdermilk 6th, pp. 470-474                       Prior to discharge the couple discussed

     En face positioning                            Determine family structure and                                                                         changes in roles and began to formulate

     Claiming                                           individual expectations.                        The ease with which each family                                                             realistic goals.

     Naming                                                                                                      member adapts to the new role may be

                                                                                                                      influenced by the size, stability and

                                                                                                                      complexity of the family.

                                                                                                                      Lowdermilk 6th, pp. 493-496

                                                           

                                                            Therapeutic                                         Encouragement of rooming-in provides

                                                            Provide opportunities for the couple,      time for the family to be with the

                                                            siblings and newborn to be                   newborn and become better acquainted.

                                                            together.                                            

                                                           

                                                            Assist parents in acquiring skill and      Parents who are having difficulty or feel

                                                            comfort in providing infant care.             awkward providing care may believe

                                                                                                                      that they are failing in parenting skills.

                                                                                                                      Sherwin 2nd, pp. 677+

 

                                                            Educative                                            Brazelton found that parents need to be

                                                            Assist the couple to identify                 taught the characteristics of the newborn

                                                            characteristics of the newborn.             to enable them to adapt to the individual

                                                                                                                      infant.

                                                                                                                      Sherwin 2nd, p. 729

 

                                                            Aid client in setting realistic goals         Too much activity and unrealistic goals

                                                            and expectations.                                compound fatigue and reduce energy

                                                                                                                      levels needed for coping and role

                                                                                                                      integration.                                              

                                                                                                                      Lowdermilk 6th, pp. 493-496


XI.  RIGHTS OF STUDENTS

 

The following is a list of the rights and freedoms of students in the Department of Nursing.  You are referred to the Plattsburgh Student Bill of Rights and Student Handbook for an enumeration of the essential provisions for student freedom to learn.

 

The student has the right to:

 

1.         receive an explanation of the course content and requirements, at the onset of the course,

2.         know how he/she will be graded in the course both clinically and theoretically at the

          onset of the course,

3.         be provided a list of the type of educational records which are being maintained and

          directly relate to the student (as defined in the Buckley Amendment to the Family

          Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974),

4.         inspect and review the content of those records,

5.         receive a response to reasonable requests for explanations of those records,

6.         question the instructor periodically regarding progress in theory and clinical area,

7.         request review of a final grade if the student feels it is unfair,

8.         defend self against charges of plagiarism/academic dishonesty,

9.         submit a written statement of evaluation of the course and instructor,

10.         have a relationship with the instructor or advisor that is conducive to learning,

11.         consult with the Department Chairperson if he/she is having difficulty with the instructor

          or advisor,

12.         be represented on committees involving curriculum planning and student affairs through

          Student Nurses Association or the class organization,

13.         see the most recent clinical evaluations as well as those from previous semesters,

14.         make a written statement regarding his/her clinical evaluations, either initially or within

          the ensuing semester on the original evaluation form,

15.         be protected against improper disclosure of confidential information which affects

          professional growth,

16.         know when confidential information must be disclosed and to whom it will be disclosed,

          and

17.         be protected against demands on personal life outside of nursing class, clinical areas,  

          and committees.

 

In addition, this Department operates in accordance with defined College Policy under Title IX.

 

Copies of policies are available in the Department office.

 

 

 

 

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NURSING PROGRAM

 

OFFICES AND TELEPHONES

 

_______________________________________________________________________________________

 


             NAME                                                              PHONE           ROOM NO.           EMAIL ADDRESS 

__________________________________________________________________________________________

    Baker, Carol                      Assistant Professor              4235             Hawkins- 223C           bakercs@

                                                                                                                                                plattsburgh.edu

 

    Barker, Virginia                 Professor                            3070             Hawkins 151              barkervl@

                                                                                                                                                plattsburgh.edu

 

    Bongiorno, Anne                Assistant Professor              4246             Hawkins- 221E           anne.bongiorno@

                                                                                                                                                plattsburgh.edu

 

     Curry, David                     Associate Professor             4245             Hawkins-221D            david.curry@

                                                                                                                                                plattsburgh.edu

 

     Gleeson-Kreig, JoAnn       Assistant Professor              4239             Hawkins-221A            joann.gleesonkreig@

                                                                                                                                                plattsburgh.edu

 

     Houck, Noreen                 Assistant Professor              4225             Hawkins-215A            houcknm@

                                                                                                                                                plattsburgh.edu

 

     Kaufmann, Mara               Assistant Professor              4238             Hawkins-223D            kaufmamm@

                                                                                                                                                plattsburgh.edu

 

     Lavery, Diana                   Instructional Support            4227             Hawkins-259              laverydl@

                                            Assistant                                                                                            plattsburgh.edu

 

     Premore, Pauline              Skills Lab Manager              4227             Hawkins-259              pauline.premore@

                                                                                                                                                plattsburgh.edu

 

     Sayward, Wendy              Assistant Professor              4242             Hawkins-215D            wendy.sayward@

                                                                                                                                                plattsburgh.edu

 

     Schnell, Dr. Zoanne          Professor                            4240             Hawkins-215C            zoanne.schnell@

                                                                                                                                                plattsburgh.edu

 

     Thomson, Theresa            Adjunct Lecturer                  4156             Hawkins-223E            terinotj@

                                                                                                                                                plattsburgh.edu

 

     Wells, Lisa                       Associate Professor             4232             Hawkins-215E            lisa.wells@

                                                                                                                                                plattsburgh.edu

 

     OFFICE

 

     Donahue, Sherry               Department Secretary          3124             Hawkins-209B            donahusl@

                                                                                                          Hawkins-215A                  plattsburgh.edu

 

     Marianne Wemette           Telenursing Secretary           4234             Kehoe 413                 marianne.wemette@

                                                                                                                                                plattsburgh.edu

 

 

                                                                                                                                 

 

 

 

 

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