Nursing Handbook: SUNY Brockport

SUNY Brockport
Department of Nursing
Review Verification of Student Handbook

The purpose of the Department of Nursing Student Handbook is to supplement the information found at /support/policies/student/index.php.

It is the responsibility of the student to read, understand, and adhere to the all student policies and which are found at /support/policies/student/index.php, and in the Department of Nursing Graduate Student Handbook, which is found on the Department of Nursing website. The policies and procedures in the department are subject to change without prior notice and may be communicated via email, in writing or verbally.

Please complete the form below and return it as instructed. This form will be placed in your student file to verify that you have read the policies in the nursing department website

I have read the policies of the Department of Nursing in the Student Handbook on the Department of Nursing website. I understand and agree to comply with the policies and procedures stated on the website.

Name (print) ___________________________________
Signature__________________ Date________________

Department of Nursing Student Handbook

The Department of Nursing is a department in the School of Education, Health and Human Services. The upper division nursing program was initiated in 1968 and graduated its first class of three students in 1971 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The National League for Nursing granted initial accreditation to the nursing program in 1977. The baccalaureate degree in nursing at SUNY Brockport is currently accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) (https://www.aacnnursing.org/CCNE).

The graduate program was reopened in the fall of 2018 awarding a Master of Science degree and eligibility for licensure as a Family Nurse Practitioner. The graduate program is in the accreditation process with CCNE.

Mission of the Department of Nursing

Our central mission is the preparation of exemplary professional nurses and nurse practitioners who utilize evidence based practices and provide leadership within health care systems resulting in the best possible outcomes for the diverse populations we serve.

Reviewed 5/14/21

Program Vision Statement

Our exemplary graduates will be nurses and family nurse practitioners poised to lead and to make significant contributions to the present and future health care environment.

Reviewed 5/14/21

Department of Nursing Program Philosophy

Nursing is a profession with the primary purpose of facilitating an optimal level of wellness through purposeful interventions. Patients and communities are viewed holistically throughout the lifespan. Nurses work independently and in collaboration with other health professionals in a world of emerging technology to promote social justice and eliminate health care disparities.

Nursing education utilizes knowledge drawn from nursing, the liberal arts, sciences, and the humanities. Department faculty promote the mission of the University and the Department through teamwork and cohesion.

Students are recognized as bringing a diversity of abilities and perspectives to the educational setting. Students are active, accountable, and responsible participants in the learning process. Accordingly, opportunities are provided which encourage each individual to build on past knowledge and experience.

Our nursing curriculum emphasizes the development of knowledge, skills, and attitudes essential to the development of critical thinking and exemplary nursing practice. The Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing serves as the foundation for leadership roles within the profession, graduate study and continuing professional and personal growth. The Master of Science in Nursing builds on these skills and attributes to further develop the assessment, diagnosis, treatment and decision-making skills required of an advanced practice nurse provider. All programs within the Department of Nursing prepare students to utilize best practices while providing patient centered culturally competent, holistic care.

Reviewed 5/14/21

Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)

BACCALUAREATE STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES

The program SLOs describe the graduate of the baccalaureate program as one who will be able to:

Integrate theories and concepts from nursing, the liberal arts, sciences, and humanities into professional nursing practice in a world of global interdependence.
Provide safe and holistic patient-centered care for all ages in a variety of health care settings utilizing the nursing process, informatics, and emerging technology.
Provide evidence-based care of patients across the lifespan for the delivery of optimal health care.
Articulate a professional philosophy that reflects autonomy, advocacy, social justice, accountability, responsibility and ethical decision making in the provision of patient centered care.
Communicate and collaborate effectively with individuals, families, communities, populations, and inter-professional team members, fostering open communication, mutual respect and shared decision making.
Integrate processes and skills for critical thinking, management and leadership to promote and continuously improve the quality and safety of health care delivery.
Evaluate nursing care outcomes within the context of patients’ values, preferences, and well-being.

Revised 5/11/18, Reviewed5/14/21

GRADUATE STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES

The Student Learning Outcomes associated with the graduate program are consistent with the AACN/NONPF Masters level competencies and are as follows:

Demonstrates expertise in the evaluation and implementation of clinical practice guidelines and specialized knowledge as it applies to advance practice nursing.
Analyzes current data, information, and knowledge from humanities and sciences that contribute to the science of advanced practice nursing to address access to, cost of, quality, and safety of care.
Applies research outcomes in the practice arena to improve patient care.
Collaborates with appropriate stakeholders to promote quality, safety, and improved outcomes of individuals and populations within an organization.
Employs the use of information systems to capture data to deliver and enhance coordinated patient care.
Demonstrates understanding of the role of the advanced practice nurse to influence policy at the system level to enhance the health of the public.
Applies and evaluates the impact of ethical principles in complex decision-making processes of caring for patients in the advanced practice role.
Incorporates inclusion of concepts of psychosocial dimensions, cultural diversity, and global health into advanced practice nursing.
Develops the skills of an independent, accountable prescriber and full scope of the masters prepared advanced practice nurse.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Department of Nursing Committees

Within the Department of Nursing there are a variety of committees, which are designed to conduct the business of the nursing program. Committees are a constructive way for students to voice their concerns and make suggestions for changes in the program. Student representatives are sought and welcomed on departmental committees. If interested in participating on a committee, please contact any nursing faculty member about joining. Although faculty value individual student feedback, student representatives are expected to share concerns as reflected by feedback obtained from the class and not simply offer their own opinions.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF STUDENT REPRESENTATIVES

Attend scheduled committee meetings (or ask an alternate to attend).
Bring student feedback to the committee and bring feedback from the committee to the student body.
Work with faculty on the committee on various tasks.
Assist in the work of the committee.

The following is a brief description of each committee in which students are invited to participate:

DEPARTMENT OF NURSING FACULTY MEETING:

The entire faculty as well as student representatives from each program attend this meeting, which is held monthly. During this meeting, decisions are made regarding how the affairs of the Department of Nursing will be conducted.

LEVEL MEETINGS (LEVELS 1, 2, 3, RN-BSN, ACCELERATED):

These are held once or twice a month and are designed to deal with the issues and concerns of students within that level or program.

UNDERGRADUATE CURRICULUM COMMITTEE:

This committee is responsible for matters pertaining to the continual improvement and refining of the overall curriculum of the traditional, RN-BSN, and Accelerated nursing programs.

UNDERGRADUATE EVALUATION COMMITTEE:

This committee is responsible for establishing, implementing, and revising items relevant to the evaluation of the nursing program and program outcomes. Meetings are held monthly.

GRADUATE CURRICULUM/EVALUATION COMMITTEE

This committee is responsible for establishing, implementing and revising program evaluation material and for matters pertaining to the continual improvement and refining of the overall curriculum of the graduate program. This committee meets monthly.

STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE:

This committee is responsible for long-range planning and goals for the department.

APPOINTMENT, PROMOTION AND TENURE COMMITTEE (APT):

This committee is responsible for establishing, implementing, and revising policies and procedures relevant to appointments, reappointments and promotions of faculty.

STUDENT/ALUMNI AFFAIRS COMMITTEE:

This committee is responsible for creating and fostering opportunities for student development, scholarships and awards, updating and maintaining the student handbook, and overseeing selection of and policy regarding student uniforms.

TRADITIONAL PROGRAM ADMISSION AND PROGRESSION COMMITTEE:

This committee is responsible for establishing, implementing, and revising criteria, policies and procedures relevant to the traditional undergraduate program admissions, progression, and course challenge requests and readmissions.

RN-BSN PROGRAM ADMISSION AND PROGRESSION COMMITTEE:

This committee is responsible for establishing, implementing, and revising criteria, policies and procedures relevant to RN-BSN program admissions, progression, and course challenge requests and readmissions.

ACCELERATED PROGRAM ADMISSION AND PROGRESSION COMMITTEE:

This committee is responsible for establishing, implementing, and revising criteria, policies and procedures relevant to accelerated undergraduate program admissions, progression, and course challenge requests and readmissions.

GRADUATE PROGRAM ADMISSION AND PROGRESSION COMMITTEE:

This committee is responsible for establishing, implementing, and revising criteria, policies and procedures relevant to graduate program admissions, progression, and course challenge requests and readmissions.

SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE:

This committee is responsible for disseminating scholarship information to students and guiding students to the Academic Works Scholarship Portal on the University website for all Brockport Foundation Scholarships.

INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION COMMITTEE:

This committee is responsible for exploring, developing and evaluating international educational opportunities offered through the department.

OMICRON BETA NURSING HONOR SOCIETY:

This committee is responsible for coordinating departmental efforts and induction of students in the Omicron Beta Nursing Honor Society.

Approved 5/4/18

The Excellence in Clinical Education and Learning (ExCEL) Center

The ExCEL Center located in the newly renovated Lathrop Hall provides students with numerous opportunities to practice nursing skills, develop critical thinking, and cultivate professional attitudes. SUNY Brockport provides nursing majors a state of the art lab and simulation learning environment, which consists of a computer lab, a health assessment lab, a foundations lab, four simulation rooms, a medication room, and a debriefing room.

The computer lab in room #105 has 32 computers, a printer, and 5 large wall mounted monitors for students use. This space has the capacity to allow students to work cooperatively in groups, provides a quiet place to study, and can be used as a classroom. It is open Monday thru Friday exclusively for nursing majors. No food or drink can be consumed in the computer lab, however there is a nursing student’s lounge across the hall.

The health assessment lab in room #204 is an 8 bed lab used primarily in the first semester of the junior year. Room #206 is a 12 bed foundations lab which simulates an acute healthcare facility. Practice lab time allows students the opportunity to practice nursing skills independently in order to provide quality safe patient care when they arrive at their clinical practice settings.

The nursing simulation labs, medication room and debriefing room are all part the Department of Nursing’s simulation learning environment. These labs contain state of the art medication dispensing equipment, high fidelity simulators, computers and scanners for electronic documentation, and video and audio equipment. Our high fidelity simulators include three adults, a child, and a newborn. Each of these simulators has a pulse, breath sounds, heart sounds and can verbally interact with the student. Our mother simulator can actually simulate a live birth. Students are placed in real life clinical situations in which they need to make nursing decisions based on clinical assessments. This environment allows students a safe environment to develop clinical judgment based on clinical decision-making.

EXCEL CENTER MISSION STATEMENT

In accordance with the mission of SUNY Brockport, Department of Nursing, the mission of the ExCEL Center is the preparation of exemplary professional nurses and nurse practitioners who utilize evidence based practices and provide leadership within health care systems resulting in the best possible outcomes for the diverse populations we serve. The ExCEL Center provides opportunities for students to develop safe, effective, evidence based foundational and advanced practice physical assessment skills. A student centered, experiential philosophy is utilized to promote quality and safety in patient care. Critical thinking, therapeutic communication and confidence is developed utilizing human patient simulation within a supportive, supervised, and non-threatening environment.

EXCEL CENTER VISION STATEMENT

The ExCEL Center is dedicated to providing innovative educational activities that augment clinical and classroom learning. Students will have access to simulation technologies that promote high quality patient care. The ExCEL Center will be recognized for collaboration and leadership within the academic and healthcare community.

PRACTICE LAB POLICY FOR UNDERGRADUATE TRADITIONAL AND ACCELERATED STUDENTS

Nursing Deliberate Practice Session/Practice Lab Policies

First and second semester undergraduate nursing students must spend a total of at least 3 hours in deliberate practice sessions (DPS) over the course of the semester. This is part of your NUR 347 and NUR 351 clinical requirement. Failure to complete the three hours of hands on deliberate practice Sessions (DPS) time will result in failure of either NUR 347 or NUR 351.
Third and fourth semester undergraduate nursing students must spend a total of at least 2 hours in deliberate practice sessions (DPS) over the course of the semester. This is part of your NUR 443 and NUR 447 clinical requirement. Failure to complete the 2 hours of hands on deliberate practice Sessions (DPS) time will result in failure of either NUR 443 or NUR 447.
It is the student’s responsibility to sign up for the required DPS. Students must be signed up for the DPS in order to attend the session. Students must email the coordinator of the DPS in order to change their session date or time.
There will be a limit to the amount of students per DPS. If enough students have not signed up prior to a DPS that session may be canceled at the desecration of the lab faculty.
Students are expected to report to DPS prepared to actively participate in all learning experiences with any prep work required completed prior to the beginning of each DPS.
Professional conduct and communication are expected at all times.
If you have practiced a skill in the lab, re-watched the skill video, reviewed the text, and are still having difficulty please contact an ExCEL faculty member to set up an appointment for additional help.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Nurse Practice Act (Effective 1995)

Education Law, Article 139 – Nursing, New York State Nurses Association.
Section 6902: Definition of the practice of nursing:

The practice of the profession of nursing as a registered professional nurse is defined as diagnosing and treating human responses to actual or potential health problems through such services as case finding, health teaching, health counseling, and provision of care supportive to or restorative of life and well-being, and executing medical regimens prescribed by a licensed physician, dentist or other licensed health care provider legally authorized under this title and in accordance with the commissioner’s regulations. A nursing regimen shall be consistent with and shall not vary any existing medical regimen.

Guidelines for Suitability and Capacity to Enter the Profession of Nursing

The following are expectations of nursing intents and nursing majors and are used as guidelines for assessing suitability and capacity to enter the Profession of Nursing.
Students applying to and continuing in the Nursing Program at SUNY Brockport are expected to:

Demonstrate honesty, integrity and ethical principles.
Relate to people with warmth and empathy, communicating feelings appropriately.
Have an accepting attitude toward their total selves, including responsibility for meeting physical and emotional needs.
Be open to change in themselves and others.
Be able to listen and receive feedback from faculty and clinical instructors.
Be able to accept suggestions for improvement from faculty without being defensive, argumentative, or aggressive.
Recognize the essential worth and dignity of all human beings.
Appreciate the value of human diversity.
Develop self-confidence and initiative in working with people.
Identify personal strengths, limitations, and motivations, especially as related to a decision to work with people.
Express thoughts with clarity in both written and verbal form.
Relate with respect for all people regardless of unique characteristics—for example, those related to race, religion (or lack of religion), gender, disability, political affiliation, sexual orientation, and value system.
Refrain from imposing their own personal, religious, sexual, and political preferences on clients.
Be accountable for his/her own actions.

If a faculty member identifies inappropriate behavior on the part of a student in the classroom, ExCEL Center or the clinical area this behavior will be documented in the student’s permanent record in the form of a note, counseling memo and/or a contract. In addition, students will be required to complete the University’s Felony Review Form annually and should be aware that a felony record may preclude taking certain courses in the major, graduating, and/or obtaining licensure in the profession. Questions regarding this process should be directed to the chairperson of the department.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Professional Behaviors Expected of Nursing Students

The following behaviors are essential for professional nursing practice. These behaviors are rated by clinical faculty with each clinical rotation. Students must demonstrate satisfactory behavior in each of the following areas, otherwise the student will be dismissed from the nursing program.

Accountability
Responsibility
Preparedness
Willingness to learn
Attendance
Punctuality
Empathy
Appropriate attitude
Respect
Appropriate behavior
Appropriate appearance
Honesty
Sensitivity
Genuineness
Non-judgmental behavior
Commitment Integrity
Ethical principles
Appropriateness in seeking assistance
Openness to change in self and others
Recognition of dignity of all human beings

American Nurses Association Code of Ethics

Nursing students at SUNY Brockport are expected to act in accordance of the American Nurses Association Code of Ethics. Students who do not act in accordance to the ANA Code of Ethics will be dismissed from the nursing program. The provisions are as follows:

The nurse, in all professional relationships, practices with compassion and respect for the inherent dignity, worth, and uniqueness, of every individual, unrestricted by considerations of social or economic status, personal attributes, or the nature of health problems.
The nurse’s primary commitment, is to the patient, whether an individual, family, group, or community.
The nurse promotes, advocates for, and strives to protect the health, safety, and rights of the patient.
The nurse is responsible and accountable for individual nursing practice and determines the appropriate delegation of tasks consistent with the nurse’s obligation to provide optimum patient care.
The nurse owes the same duties to self as to others, including the responsibility to preserve the integrity and safety, to maintain competence, and to continue personal and professional growth.
The nurse participates in establishing, maintaining, and improving health care environments and conditions of employment conducive to the provision of quality health care and consistent with the values of the profession through individual and collective action.
The nurse participates in the advancement of the profession through contributions to practice, education, administration, and knowledge development.
The nurse collaborates with other health professionals and the public in promoting community, national and international efforts to meet health needs.
The profession of nursing, as represented by the association and its members, is responsible for articulating nursing values, for maintaining the integrity of the profession and its practice, and for shaping social policy.

http://www.nursingworld.org/MainMenuCategories/EthicsStandards/CodeofEthicsforNurses/Code-of-Ethics.pdf

ANA Position Statement on “The Nurse’s Role in Addressing Discrimination: Protecting and Promoting Inclusive Strategies in Practice Settings, Policy, and Advocacy”

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

NATIONAL STATE BOARDS OF NURSING BROCHURE (NCSBN) “A NURSE’S GUIDE TO THE USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA” (PDF)

Students should review the above brochure and general recommendations as they begin their nursing education and plan to enter this profession.

Technical Standards for the Undergraduate Nursing Program

The Department of Nursing’s curricula are designed to provide the education necessary for the practice of nursing at the baccalaureate level of preparation. Students build on the fundamental principles of nursing, acquire skills of critical judgment based on education and experience, and develop an ability to use principles and skills wisely in decision-making and problem solving pertaining to the delivery of high quality nursing services.

Students admitted to the Department of Nursing need the intellectual and physical abilities to acquire the knowledge, behaviors and skills taught within the program of nursing. In addition to satisfactory academic performance in all coursework, students are expected to fulfill the non-academic essential functions of the curriculum in a reasonably independent manner. These functions are specified by the physical, cognitive, and behavioral standards (referred to collectively as technical standards) necessary for the completion of the nursing program. Technical standards of the Department of Nursing are outlined below.

The Department of Nursing will consider for admission and advancement any individual able to perform pursuant to the standards, which are used as guidelines. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to qualified individuals with a disability in accordance with applicable laws and policies, while maintaining the integrity of program standards. Accommodations will be determined on a case-by-case basis working in conjunction with the Office of Students with Disabilities. Students must be able to:

Acquire information from demonstrations and experiences in the basic and applied sciences, including but not limited to information conveyed through lecture, group seminar, small group activities and physical demonstrations.
Acquire information from written documents and computer information systems (including literature searches and data retrieval), and identify information presented in images from paper, videos, transparencies and slides.
Independently use and interpret information from diagnostic maneuvers, (e.g. palpation, auscultation, percussion, etc.) diagnostic instruments (e.g. sphygmomanometer, otoscope, ophthalmoscope, etc.) and other diagnostic representation of physiological phenomena during the course of conducting a comprehensive physical assessment of a client.
Accurately elicit information, including a health history, and other information required to adequately and effectively evaluate a client’s condition.
Accurately observe and assess a client’s condition, and be able to problem solve and think critically to judge which theory and/or strategy of assessment and intervention is most appropriate.
Synthesize information to develop a plan of care.
Utilize intellectual ability, exercise proper judgment, and timely and accurately complete responsibilities attendant to the delivery of care to clients.
Develop effective and appropriate relationships with clients, colleagues, coworkers and relevant others.
Perform specific procedures and interventions (e.g. Basic Life Support techniques) sufficient to provide safe and effective nursing care according to prescribed therapeutic regimens.
Communicate effectively and efficiently with faculty, patients, families and all members of the health care team about a patient’s condition as called for under the circumstances, verbally, in writing and in an electronic medical record.
Practice in a safe manner and respond appropriately to emergencies and urgencies.
Adapt and function effectively under the various circumstances and rigors, which are inherent in the clinical practice of nursing.
Move and transfer patients and medical equipment as care provision requires.
Practice universal precautions against contamination and cross-contamination with infectious pathogens (e.g. wearing personal protective equipment; working with sharp objects and hazardous chemicals; treating clients with infectious diseases.)

By my signature below, I affirm that I have read and understand the ethical and professional behaviors expected of me in the nursing program. I also affirm that I understand and agree to the Technical Standards above-mentioned terms and conditions. To the best of my knowledge, I have no current restrictions or limitations that would impede my ability to fully comply with the Technical Standards. I understand that failure to comply with the Technical Standards may result in disciplinary action against me.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Technical Standards for the Graduate Nursing Program

The Department of Nursing’s graduate curriculum is designed to provide the education necessary for function at the advanced practice level of nursing. Students build on the fundamental principles of nursing, acquire skills of critical judgment based on education and experience, and develop an ability to use principles and skills wisely in decision-making and problem solving pertaining to the delivery of high quality advanced practice-nursing care.

Students admitted to the graduate program in the Department of Nursing need the intellectual and physical abilities to acquire the knowledge, behaviors and skills taught within the program. In addition to satisfactory academic performance in all coursework, students are expected to fulfill the non-academic essential functions of the curriculum in a reasonably independent manner. These functions are specified by the physical, cognitive, and behavioral standards (referred to collectively as technical standards) necessary for the completion of the graduate nursing program. Technical standards for the graduate program in the Department of Nursing are outlined below.

Acquire information from demonstrations and experiences in the basic and applied sciences, including but not limited to information conveyed through lecture, group seminar, small group activities and physical demonstrations.
Acquire information from written documents and computer information systems (including literature searches and data retrieval), and identify information presented in images from paper, videos, transparencies and slides.
Independently use and interpret information from diagnostic maneuvers, (e.g. palpation, auscultation, percussion, etc.) diagnostic instruments (e.g. sphygmomanometer, otoscope, ophthalmoscope, etc.) and other diagnostic representation of physiological phenomena during the course of conducting a comprehensive physical assessment of a client.
Accurately elicit information, including a health history, and other information required to adequately and effectively evaluate a client’s condition.
Accurately observe and assess a client’s condition, and be able to problem solve and think critically to judge which theory and/or strategy of assessment and intervention is most appropriate.
Synthesize information to develop a plan of care.
Utilize intellectual ability, exercise proper judgment, and timely and accurately complete responsibilities attendant to the delivery of care to clients.
Develop effective and appropriate relationships with clients, colleagues, coworkers and relevant others.
Perform specific procedures and interventions (e.g. Advanced Life Support techniques) sufficient to provide safe and effective nursing care according to prescribed therapeutic regimens.
Communicate effectively and efficiently with faculty, patients, families and all members of the health care team about a patient’s condition as called for under the circumstances, verbally, in writing and in an electronic medical record.
Practice in a safe manner and respond appropriately to emergencies and urgencies.
Adapt and function effectively under the various circumstances and rigors, which are inherent in the clinical practice of nursing.
Move and transfer patients and medical equipment as care provision requires.
Practice universal precautions against contamination and cross-contamination with infectious pathogens (e.g. wearing personal protective equipment; working with sharp objects and hazardous chemicals; treating clients with infectious diseases.)

In addition, students should be aware that some clinical sites require a full background check and felony convictions may disqualify students from participating at certain sites and/or jeopardize future licensure. Students are expected to comply with clinical site requirements. Questions regarding this process should be directed to the chairperson of the department.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Disability Statement

Students with documented disabilities may be entitled to specific accommodations. SUNY Brockport’s Office for Students with Disabilities makes this determination. Please contact the Office for Student Disabilities at 395-5409 or osdoffic@brockport.edu to inquire about obtaining an official letter to the course instructor detailing approved accommodations. The student is responsible for providing the course instructor with an official letter. Faculty work as a team with the Office for Students with Disabilities to meet the needs of students with disabilities.

Reviewed 5/14/21

Department of Nursing Guidelines for Academic Dishonesty

The Department of Nursing supports the University Policy on Academic Honesty as outlined below.

GENERAL

Because an academic community functions most successfully when there is trust among all members, academic dishonesty is a serious breach of that trust which exists between a student, one’s fellow students and/or the instructor.
Academic dishonesty is a major violation of University policy, which can result in a range of disciplinary actions from a reprimand to suspension or expulsion from the institution. (See /support/policies/adopted/aa_vprovost_academicaffairs_academic_dishonesty.html). Any student suspected of such a violation will be subject to charges in accordance with the Student Council Regulations.
Violations of academic honesty include, but are not limited to, the actions described at /support/policies/adopted/aa_vprovost_academicaffairs_academic_dishonesty.html. Established school, unity, and/or individual policies will address circumstances unique or specific to particular academic areas. When such policies are developed, they shall be forwarded to the President for approval and incorporation in this policy.

DEFINITIONS

Academic dishonesty may be seen as including the following:

Presenting as one’s own: words, ideas, or products of another without providing a standard form of documentation such as footnotes, endnotes, or bibliographic documentation.
Fabricating facts, statistics, or other forms of evidence in papers, laboratory experiments, or other assignments.
Presenting someone else’s paper or material as one’s own work.
Writing or attempting to write an examination, paper, computer work or material for another student; allowing someone else to take one’s examination.
Buying and/or selling of examinations; possession of examinations or answers to examinations without the permission of the instructor. Taking screenshots of online exams, quizzes and/or case study materials, etc.
Using “cheat” sheets, looking onto another person’s paper or talking to someone other than the instructor or proctor during an examination without the instructor’s permission.
Failing to follow the rules of conduct for taking an examination as stipulated by the instructor prior to the examination or as stated by him or her in a written course syllabus.
Presenting work for which credit has already been received in a previous course, without the consent of the instructor.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Guidelines for Writing Papers in All Programs Within the Department of Nursing:

All papers will be written in APA format, in professional paper format. Refer to the APA Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.) for assistance. Papers that do not comply with APA requirements will lose points from the grade for the paper and may be returned for the student for revision.

Approved 5/14/21 Reviewed 5/14/21

Undergraduate Examination Guidelines for Traditional and Accelerated Students

As a student in the nursing program, you will be taking exams at various times in the different courses. The following general guidelines may be used by the faculty where appropriate.

Students are expected to be present for all exams. In the event of an absence, the student must contact the professor prior to the exam. A note substantiating the reason for the exam absence must be submitted by the student to the course faculty. Otherwise, an absent student will receive a grade of zero for that exam.
Exams will begin and end on time. Late students will be admitted at the discretion of the faculty.
Students with formal accommodations in place are responsible for making arrangements with the testing center to take their examinations.

All articles must be placed on the floor under the desk or in the designated area.. Once the exam has begun, no one will be allowed to leave the classroom until he/she has completed and submitted/turned in his/her exam.

If the test is being administered electronically, students are expected to maintain the examination integrity principles in the next section and keep their eyes on their own device. Students are expected to have properly functioning equipment that meets the technical requirements as stated in the course syllabi which includes all necessary updates.

If the test is paper based, answer sheets should be kept as protected as possible. All eyes should be kept on students’ own work. Absolutely no talking will be allowed. When taking an exam, all answers should be recorded directly on the answer sheet unless otherwise specified. Upon completing the exam, pick up your belongings, come to the front of the room, turn in your exam and answer sheet and quietly leave the room.

Do not congregate in the hall outside the exam room, as it is very distracting to the students still taking an exam. Do not reenter the classroom while students are still taking the exam.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21 Updated 6/9/22

Examination Integrity Policy

Students may not have any communications device when completing any examination or quiz in any nursing course of the nursing program taken in a classroom (unless documented as a testing accommodation through the Office for Students with Disabilities). These devices include:

Cell phones
iPods and MP3 players
iPads, tablets, and other eReaders
Laptops, notebooks, or any other personal computing devices (unless directed to complete the exam on computer)
Cameras and personal scanning devices
Wearable devices/smart wearables, including smart watches and health wearables with a display
Headphones, headsets, or in-ear headphones such as earbuds
Any other device capable of recording audio, photographic, or video content, or capable of viewing or playing back such content, or sending receiving text, audio, or video message

All students are required to remove and securely store any communication device during all in-class examinations.

If a student is found with any of these devices during an exam, the student will be dismissed from the exam/quiz and will receive a grade of zero for that assignment. The faculty member will complete the faculty report of Student Violation of the Academic Dishonesty Policy. Such an incident may be grounds for dismissal from the nursing program and potentially SUNY Brockport.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

UNDERGRADUATE EXAMINATION POLICY STATEMENT FOR TRADITIONAL AND ACCELERATED STUDENTS

Each student must achieve an average of at least 75% for examinations in each didactic course associated with a clinical course.

The one exception to the above policy is the NUR 328 Medication Administration Technique. In order to receive a passing grade for NUR 328 the student must achieve a minimum final test grade of 90% on the section testing calculation of dosages, and 80% on the section testing medications theory.

Reviewed 5/14/21

Responsibility of Students:

Students are responsible for knowing the policy on academic dishonesty and failure of an individual faculty member to remind the student as to what constitutes academic dishonesty shall not obviate this responsibility.
Student should take care not to provide opportunities for other students to engage in academic dishonesty.
Students should inform the faculty member of academic dishonesty taking place.

Reviewed 5/14/21

Policy on Use of Alcohol, Drugs and Other Mood Altering Substances

All students are required to read the following policy on the Use of Alcohol, Drugs and other Mood Altering Substances, and to adhere to it.
Chemical use, as well as abuse, can interfere with your classroom and clinical performance. Even small amounts of mood altering substances can affect your judgment and perceptions and therefore endanger the lives of your clients. The following departmental policy on alcohol, drugs and mood altering substance use has a two-fold purpose:

To ensure the safety of your clients.
To help you recognize if your actions are problematic and to assist you in seeking help.

The faculty of the Department of Nursing will not tolerate the presence of students in the classroom and clinical settings who are under the influence of alcohol/drugs and other mood altering substances. The Department faculty’s concerns are not limited to illegal drugs. The Department policy absolutely forbids students to participate in the clinical setting with even the smell of alcohol on their breath or if exhibiting any behavioral manifestations indicative of mood altering substance use, even where the substance is a legally prescribed medication. Any student who is taking a prescribed medication or who has a medical problem that may cause them to appear to be under the influence of alcohol/drugs or other mood altering substances must inform the faculty prior to starting any clinical rotation. The use of alcohol several hours before clinical or heavy use the night before can result in the smell of alcohol on your breath, which is unacceptable. Some illegal substances have a long half-life (such as marijuana) and would show up in the screen one month after use.

The procedure that will be followed by faculty in dealing with students with the smell of alcohol/drugs on their breath or who are under the influence of alcohol/other mood altering substances is as follows:

IN THE CLASSROOM SETTING:

The student will be spoken to by the faculty member. The departmental policy regarding the use of alcohol and other mood altering substances will be reviewed. This conversation will be documented in the department’s confidential file and will be shared with the other Nursing faculty.

IN THE CLINICAL SETTING:

Both the client’s and your personal safety will be taken into consideration.

No further client contact will be allowed.
You will be directed to get an immediate blood alcohol level test or to use a breathalyzer or have an immediate drug screen. It will be your responsibility to pay for the costs involved, and to provide proof of the time and the date the testing was done.
You will be dismissed from the program if your test results indicate the presence of alcohol/drugs or other mood altering substances or if you refuse to take the required test. You may be dismissed from the program if your test results indicate the presence of a prescribed medication and you have not previously notified your clinical faculty member.

The Department of Nursing is in full compliance with the University policies found at /support/policies/student/index.php.

Reviewed 5/14/21

Attendance Policy: Class and Clinical

ATTENDANCE POLICY:

Class attendance is expected and absences will be dealt with according to the University’s Attendance Policy.

CLASSROOM:

The student is responsible for all assigned course work and cannot be absolved of this responsibility. When enrolled in a particular course, the student is obligated to do all of the work assigned. Punctual and regular attendance is vital to the discharge of this obligation. Absences, excused or not, do not alter this responsibility.

Absences will be excused for (a) documented illness, (b) official representation of the University, (c) death of a close relative, (d) religious holiday and (e) other circumstances beyond the control of the student. Substantiation of excused absences is the responsibility of the student. Excuses for official representation of the University must be obtained from the official supervising that activity or event.

NOTE: Documented illness: student must notify the instructor prior to a class missed because of illness either by phone message or by email. If there are more than 2 absences per class, the student must then provide health care provider documentation of illness. If this does not occur, any further absences from class will be deemed unexcused. Per University Policy, absences that exceed 15% of the scheduled classes will result in a lowered grade (by one letter grade) for the course.

If a student misses an exam because of illness, the student must notify the instructor prior to class and must provide health care provider documentation of illness.
Regulations more restrictive than those stated above, but not in conflict with them, may be established by the instructor for any course.

Instructors are responsible for distributing this attendance policy, and any additions in writing, during the first class meeting. University Attendance Policy was on updated July 2017.

CLINICAL:

Attendance in clinical experience is mandatory. Absences will be excused only at the discretion of the instructor. Allowable reasons for absence from a clinical experience include unsafe weather conditions, documented illness (documentation of illness from a health care provider) and the death of a close relative. Makeup days will be scheduled with the student at the discretion of the instructor and if possible depending on the clinical institution.

An unexcused absence from clinical will result in failure of clinical. Missing clinical prior to an exam may be subject to a 5 point deduction on the scheduled examination.

Absences deemed excessive by the instructor will result in assignment of a grade of U for the clinical component of the course. This will result in an unsatisfactory course grade.

Revised: 5/11/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Nursing Remediation Process for the Undergraduate Nursing Program

REMEDIATION MAY BE CONSIDERED WHEN A NURSING STUDENT:

Needs additional time or support before completing the nursing program.
Does not successfully complete one of the nursing courses and/or clinical at the level of departmental program standards.
Does not demonstrate the skills or personal attributes necessary to succeed as a nurse.

PURPOSE:

The purpose of remediation is to identify, remediate, and counsel those individuals who demonstrate behaviors or evidence of difficulties in their Nursing Program as early as possible.

Remediation is a system of support for the student, and is not a disciplinary action. The sole purpose of this program is to help struggling students with remediation efforts designed at assisting them to become better equipped to be successful nurses. Remediation may be made for any significant areas of weakness. The faculty seeks to ensure that each student successfully completes our program, and is ready to enter the profession having assimilated the necessary knowledge, skills, and attitude and conduct essential for the successful nurse.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PROCESS:

Any nursing student who fails to meet the programmatic expectations and requirements is in jeopardy of not completing the Nursing Program. Any failure in the classroom and/or clinical setting will result in a review by faculty. If failure occurs in either the classroom or clinical setting both courses must be retaken. A remediation plan to determine the student’s readiness to remain in the Nursing program will be developed by a committee consisting of the student’s clinical or classroom faculty, Department Chair, and assigned academic advisor.

Referrals for remediation will be completed by the referring instructor and will be submitted to the Chairperson. The referring instructor will notify the student of the referral and then the student may contact the Chairperson for further instruction or information.

This committee will meet and develop a personalized plan to address and remediate those areas identified as weaknesses exhibited by the student during clinical and/or classroom activities. A formal plan will be developed and the student will be required to read, review, and sign the plan to demonstrate that he/she understands the plan and agrees to follow it.

A remediation plan may delay the student’s progression through the program. Plans are individualized for each student and may include, but will not be limited to, the following examples:

referral to the Student Learning Center
auditing classes in whole or in part
repeating the classroom and clinical courses where the weaknesses were identified
complete any other activities as outlined by the remediation plan

Failure to follow and successfully complete the prescribed remediation plan will result in the student’s inability to continue in the Nursing Program.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Program Continuation

Based on the professional judgment of Department of Nursing faculty, there are rare occasions when a nursing student is dismissed from the nursing program without an opportunity to remediate. These situations occur for reasons such as the following:

A grade of less than 75% on the exam component of any course with a clinical component in the nursing major constitutes grounds for dismissal. If this is the first clinical course failure, the student may re-apply to the Nursing Department. Re-admission is not guaranteed. If re-admitted, a contract will be in place before starting any nursing courses that clearly denotes what the student needs to accomplish to be successful in nursing. Failure of a second nursing course with a clinical component will result in dismissal from the program and the student will not be considered for re-admission to nursing.
If a student fails either a didactic course or a clinical course in the nursing program and is readmitted both the didactic and clinical courses must be repeated successfully. If a student fails a clinical course and the associated didactic course, then the student will be removed from the program without the opportunity to reapply.
Failure to provide safe care to clients as outlined on clinical evaluation instruments.
Academic dishonesty such as cheating on an examination, theft of an examination, or plagiarism. (Refer to University Policy on Student Academic Dishonesty)
Lack of commitment to the values of the nursing profession as evidenced through behavior and attitudes expressed in the classroom or clinical site. (Refer to the Guidelines for Suitability and Capacity to Enter the Profession of Nursing.)
Severe maladaptation to the educational process as described in the Student Nursing Handbook.
Blood levels and/or urinalysis results indicating the presence of any alcohol or mood altering substances or refusal to obtain the requested evidence when alcohol or drug use are suspected in the clinical setting. (Refer to Student Nursing Handbook for the Policy on Alcohol, Drugs and other Mood Altering Substances)

The decision for remediation is always made collaboratively with careful examination of the individual situation and circumstances. The process involves input from the nursing student, nursing faculty, and Department Chairperson. It is always made in the best interest of the student and the potential patients of the student. It adheres strictly to departmental program standards and national standards for nursing practice.

WITHIN A COURSE:

A student who has performance deficiencies and/or behaviors exhibited that are in conflict with the Guidelines for Suitability and Capacity to practice letter in the clinical, lab, or class area will receive a “contract” which will delineate the behaviors that must be exhibited in order to earn a satisfactory grade in the course. This contract must be signed by both the instructor and the student. If a student fails to sign a contract, a second faculty member will witness the conversation related to the contract and will document this on the contract. A lack of signature will not nullify the contract.

WITHIN A LEVEL:

A student with performance weaknesses, and/or behaviors exhibited that are in conflict with the Guidelines for Suitability and Capacity to practice letter in the clinical, lab or class area, may be allowed to progress, at the instructor’s discretion, from one course to another, with a clinical contract. This means that the student must fulfill the terms of the contract in order to pass the new course. Contracts may be issued for courses without a clinical component.

Contracts will continue throughout the program.
In the event that a behavior, which had previously been addressed in a clinical contract, resurfaces in another Level, dismissal from the program will be considered.

Reviewed 5/14/21

Progression Policy for the Traditional and Accelerated Undergraduate Nursing Programs

For students matriculated in the undergraduate nursing programs, the following grade scale will be utilized:

A = 94 – 100 C = 75 – 76
A- = 90 – 93 C- = 70 – 74
B+ = 87 – 89 D+ = 67 – 69
B = 84 – 86 D = 64 – 66
B- = 80 – 83 D - = 60 – 63
C+ = 77 - 79 E = less than 59

Faculty will review students’ clinical and didactic performance at the end of each course and/or whenever deemed necessary using the Guidelines for Suitability and Capacity to Enter the Profession of Nursing and clinical evaluation forms.

Satisfactory progress and continued progression through the undergraduate nursing program requires passing all courses within the nursing major. Students will not be allowed to withdraw from a course after the University withdrawal period if they are failing that course.

Any student who withdraws or drops an undergraduate nursing course, while earning a failing average in the course, will only be allowed to repeat that course after signing a contract with the Department of Nursing. This contract will be developed by the instructor for the course and will include the criteria required to achieve a passing grade. While repeating the course, withdrawing or dropping the course will be considered the equivalent of failing the course.

When an undergraduate student has either failed a previous nursing course or withdrawn/dropped one while earning a failing average, withdrawing from a second nursing course while earning a failing average in the course, will be considered the equivalent of failing that course and will result in dismissal from the program.

Both co-requisite didactic and clinical courses (i.e. NUR 342/343) must be completed successfully in order to progress to the next course or level. In case of failure of either, the student will be dismissed from the program. If readmitted to the program, both didactic and clinical co-requisite courses must be completed successfully in order to progress to the next course or next level.

LEVEL I

The required courses, which comprise the nursing major in Level One of the curriculum, are:

NUR 328 Medication Administration
NUR 342 Foundations for Professional Practice
NUR 343 Foundations for Professional Practice Clinical (prerequisite for NUR 347, co-requisite to NUR 342))
NUR 344 Health Assessment
NUR 345 Health Assessment Clinical (prerequisite for NUR 347, co-requisite to NUR 344))
NUR 346 Medical Surgical INUR 347 Medical Surgical I Clinical (co-requisite to NUR 346)
PRO 310 Research Process

Each course in Level I must be successfully completed before the student may progress to Level II.

LEVEL II

The required courses, which comprise the nursing major in Level II of the curriculum, are:

NUR 321 Pharmacology
NUR 348 Childbearing Family and Women’s Health
NUR 349 Childbearing Family and Women’s Health Clinical (co-requisite to NUR 348)
NUR 350 Medical Surgical II
NUR 351 Medical Surgical II Clinical (co-requisite to NUR 350)
NUR 360 Nursing Care of the Older Adult

Each course in Level II must be successfully completed before students may progress to Level III.

LEVEL III

The required courses, which comprise the nursing major in Level III of the curriculum, are:

NUR 440 Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing
NUR 441 Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Clinical (co-requisite to NUR 440)
NUR 442 Critical Care Nursing
NUR 443 Critical Care Nursing Clinical (co-requisite to NUR 442)
NUR 444 Community Health Nursing
NUR 445 Community Health Nursing Clinical (co-requisite to NUR 444)
NUR 446 Pediatric Nursing
NUR 447 Pediatric Nursing Clinical (co-requisite to NUR 446)
NUR 451 Issues in Management and Leadership
NUR 495 Senior Nursing Seminar

Those who fail a level III course and would like to apply for readmission must reapply before the end of the semester before they can begin classes again.

Reviewed 5/14/21

Progression Policy for the RN-BSN Program

For students matriculated in the RN-BSN program, the following grade scale will be used:

A 94-100 C 75-76
A- 90-93 C- 70-74
B+ 87-89 D+ 67-69
B 84-86 D 64-66
B- 80-83 D- 60-63
C+ 77-79 E less than 60

PRO 306: Introduction to Baccalaureate Practice for Nurses must be completed satisfactorily before advancing in any additional courses in the Nursing Major. In the event that students do not satisfactorily complete PRO 306, they will not be allowed to continue in or register for any nursing courses until these requirements are met.

If PRO 306 is not completed satisfactorily, the student will be required to drop any nursing courses for which they are registered and work on developing the skills needed in these courses before proceeding. Remediation activities and courses may be recommended by the supervising faculty to ensure the skill level needed to be successful in the program is present before the student repeats the courses.

Additionally, satisfactory progress and continued progression through the RN-BSN program requires students who are enrolled in the following courses to earn a minimum grade of “C” in these courses.

PRO 258 Statistics for Nurses
PRO 310 Research Process
NUR 364 Health Assessment for the RN
NUR 322 Pharmacotherapeutics for the RN
NUR 452 Leadership and Management for the RN
NUR 471 Community-based Epidemiology
NUR 473 EBP for the RN I
NUR 475 EBP for the RN II

Students must also pass the following courses with a grade of “S.”

NUR 365 Health Assessment Clinical for the RN
NUR 472 Community-based Epidemiology Clinical

For the following nursing courses, there are no prerequisites and the sequence in which they are taken is not specified.

NUR 322 Pharmacotherapeutics for the RN
NUR 364 Health Assessment for the RN (must be taken concurrently with NUR 365)
NUR 365 Health Assessment Clinical for the RN (must be taken concurrently with NUR 364)

For the following courses, prerequisite courses are specified and must be completed with a minimum grade of “C” prior to registering for the course.

Course Prerequisite(s)

PRO 310: PRO 258
NUR 471/472: PRO 258, PRO 310
NUR 473: PRO 258, PRO 310
NUR 475: PRO 258, PRO 310, NUR 473

Under no circumstances will students be allowed to register for a course without satisfactorily completing all prerequisites. Students who do so will be dropped from the course and will be held responsible for any financial liability applied by the University.

*In addition to the listed nursing prerequisites, the following pre-requisite courses or equivalent must be completed, with a minimum grade of “C”, prior to registration for NUR 471/NUR 472, NUR 473, and NUR 475:

BIO 321 Anatomy & Physiology I
BIO 322 Anatomy & Physiology II
BIO 323 Microbiology
Psychology: any acceptable PSH course
Sociology: any acceptable SOC course

Students will not be allowed to withdraw from a course after the University’s drop/add period if they are failing that course.

Students who earn less than a “C” in any nursing course will have one (1) opportunity to repeat the course and must earn a minimum grade of “C”. Those who repeat a nursing course and earn less than a “C” will be dismissed from the program. Students who earn less than a “C” in more than one nursing course will be dismissed from the RN-BSN program.

If either component of NUR 364/365 is not completed satisfactorily (earned grade of “C” or higher), both components must be repeated.

If either component of NUR 471/NUR 472 are not completed satisfactorily, the failed course must be repeated within one year of starting the passed epidemiology course. If the failed course is not repeated successfully within one year, both components must be repeated.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Graduate Program Progression Policy

For students matriculated in the graduate program, the following grade scale will be used:

A 94-100
A- 90-93
B+ 87-89
B 84-86
E less than 84

Satisfactory progress and continued progression through the graduate program requires students to earn a minimum grade of “B” in all nonclinical graduate nursing courses and an “S” in all clinical courses.

PREREQUISITE COURSES:

Prerequisites courses are specified and must be completed with a minimum grade of “B” prior to registering for the following courses.

NUR 518: A grade of B or higher in an undergraduate statistics course
NUR 520: NUR 518
NUR 500: NUR 545, NUR 510, NUR 521
NUR 550: NUR 500, NUR 699
NUR 600: NUR 550
NUR 699: NUR 545, NUR 510, NUR 521
NUR 771: NUR 518, NUR 520

Students are not allowed to register for a course without satisfactorily completing all prerequisites. Students who do so will be dropped from the course and are responsible for any financial liability applied by the University.

CLINICAL PRACTICUM PROGRESSION:

Before enrolling in NUR 500 and NUR 699, students must successfully complete NUR 545, NUR 510, and NUR 521. Before enrolling in NUR 550, students must successfully complete NUR 500 and NUR 699. Before enrolling in NUR 600, students must successfully complete NUR 550.

Clinically Based Course Prerequisite(s)

NUR 500: NUR 545, NUR 510, NUR 521
NUR 550: NUR 500, NUR 699
NUR 600: NUR 550
NUR 699: NUR 545, NUR 510, NUR 521

COURSE FAILURES:

The graduate program director will not give permission to students who are failing courses to withdraw from said courses after the University’s drop/add period ends.

All three of the core courses, NUR 545, NUR 510 and NUR 521, must be completed satisfactorily before enrolling in clinical rotations. In the event that a student earns less than a “B” in one of these three core classes, he/she will not be allowed to continue in or register for any additional nursing courses until the core courses are successfully completed. The student will be required to drop any nursing courses for which he/she is registered and work on developing the skills needed in the core courses before proceeding. Supervising course instructors reserve the right to assign remediation requirements that the student must complete successfully before the student is given permission to repeat the course.

Students who earn less than a “B” in any nonclinical graduate nursing course will have one (1) opportunity to repeat the course and must earn a minimum grade of “B”. Those who repeat a nonclinical nursing course and earn less than a “B” will be dismissed from the program. Students who earn less than a “B” in more than one nursing course will be dismissed from the graduate program.

Failure of one of the three clinical practicum courses will result in immediate dismissal from the program. Clinical courses include: NUR 500, NUR 550, and NUR 600.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Incomplete Grade Contracts in the Undergraduate Program

In accordance with university-wide policy, if a faculty member approves a grade of Incomplete because of unusual circumstances, the faculty member will draw up a contract. Both the faculty member and the student will sign this contract. The contract shall state the work to be completed, the date by which it must be completed, and the alternate grade to be assigned if the work is not completed as stated. The contract is forwarded to the department Chairperson for approval and is filed with the registrar.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Incomplete Grade Contracts in the Graduate Program

A student may request an incomplete grade option from the instructor but it is at the instructor’s discretion to determine if it is appropriate. Incomplete grades will not be provided for students who have simply failed to plan adequate time to complete assignments and are only utilized for students with extenuating circumstances, which prevented them from finishing a small portion of the course requirements. Incompletes are not designed to ensure that students do not experience a penalty for dropping courses in which they are not successfully managing their time or assignments. Incomplete grades in the graduate program will only be available for up to six months from the final day of the course. An incomplete contract must be completed and submitted by the student and course instructor.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Dismissal Policy for the Traditional and Accelerated Undergraduate Nursing Programs

Students are continuously evaluated by the Nursing faculty during their professional baccalaureate nursing education at SUNY Brockport. Students can be dismissed from the Program at any time during their junior or senior year based on the following criteria:

Failure of any course within the nursing major. (Please see readmission policy for criteria for readmission.)
Failure to provide safe care to clients as outlined on clinical evaluation instruments for Levels I-III.
Academic dishonesty such as cheating on an examination, theft of an examination, or plagiarism of assignments from any printed source or the work of others. (Refer to University Policy on Student Academic Dishonesty)
Lack of commitment to the values of the nursing profession as evidenced through behavior and attitudes expressed in the classroom or clinical placement site. (Refer to Guidelines for Suitability and Capacity to Enter the Profession of Nursing.)
Severe maladaptation to the educational process as evidenced by:
1. Student’s lack of ability to participate productively in a classroom and/or clinical situation.
2. A consistent pattern of inadequate class preparation.
3. A consistent pattern of late completion of assignments.
4. Irresponsible behavior in class or clinical placement site
5. A consistent pattern of absence and/or tardiness from class or clinical.

Students will receive written notification from their nursing instructor of impending dismissal due to unsafe behavior in a clinical setting. Students may be asked to leave a clinical site immediately in the event of unsafe behavior. Written notification will follow.

Students will be given the opportunity to be heard. In the event of dismissal from the Program, the student will be informed of the right to appeal. (Refer to University Policy on Student Grade Appeals)

Reviewed 5/14/21

Dismissal Policy for the RN-BSN Program

The Nursing faculty continuously evaluates the students during their professional baccalaureate nursing education at SUNY Brockport. Students can be dismissed from the Program at any time for failure to meet the school’s standards, violations of Nursing Practice in New York as defined by NYS State Education Law, Article 139
(http://www.op.nysed.gov/prof/nurse/article139.htm#sect6900) or based on the following criteria:

Failure of any one course within the nursing major will result in the student being placed on academic probation. Failure of two courses will result in immediate dismissal from the program.
Failure to provide safe care to clients during any clinical experience
Academic dishonesty such as cheating on an examination, theft of an examination, or plagiarism of assignments from any printed source or the work of others. Academic Dishonesty
Lack of commitment to the values of the nursing profession as evidenced through behavior and attitudes expressed in the classroom or clinical placement site. Guidelines for Suitability and Capacity to Enter the Profession of Nursing
Abusive Criticism: The faculty and staff are open to receiving and responding to constructive suggestions. Processes are available to allow for appeals of grades and for other grievances. The expression of criticism or problems through the use of abusive language or disruptive behavior directed toward faculty or staff will not be tolerated. Such behavior is inconsistent with professional standards and inappropriate for students aspiring to a career in nursing.
Inappropriate use of Social Media: The use of social media such as Facebook, YouTube, My Space, Twitter, Allnurses.com, blogs, etc. provide the ability for students to communicate with and receive support from their peers. However, students need to be aware that publishing information on these sites may be public for anyone to see and could be traced back to them as individuals. Nursing students are preparing for a profession that provides services to the public and expects high standards of behavior. Therefore, the student should remember that conﬁdential information related to individuals or agencies must not be disclosed. HIPAA guidelines must be followed at all times. Information concerning clients/clinical rotations must not be posted in any online forum or webpage. Students are legally responsible for anything that may be posted in social media forums.
Severe maladaptation to the educational process as evidenced by:
1. student’s lack of ability to participate productively in a classroom situation.
2. a consistent pattern of inadequate class preparation.
3. a consistent pattern of late completion of assignments.
4. irresponsible behavior in class or clinical placement site.
5. a consistent pattern of absence from class or clinical.

Students will be given the opportunity to be heard. In the event of dismissal from the Program, the student will be informed of the right to appeal. University Grade Appeals Policy

Dismissal Policy for the Graduate Program

Nursing faculty members continuously evaluate nursing students in the graduate nursing program at SUNY Brockport. Students can be dismissed from the graduate program at any time for failure to meet the school’s standards, violations of Nursing Practice in New York as defined by NYS State Education Law, Article 139
(http://www.op.nysed.gov/prof/nurse/article139.htm#sect6900) or based on the following criteria:

Failure of a clinical practicum course will result in immediate dismissal from the program. Clinical practicum courses include: NUR 500, NUR 550, NUR 600.
Failure of a non-clinical course within the graduate nursing program will result in the student being placed on academic probation. Failure of two non-clinical courses will result in immediate dismissal from the program. Withdrawal from a course while failing is considered a course failure for this policy and the graduate course progression policy.
Failure to provide safe care to clients during any clinical experience
Academic dishonesty such as cheating on an examination, theft of an examination, or plagiarism of assignments from any printed source or the work of others. Academic Dishonesty
Lack of commitment to the values of the nursing profession as evidenced through behavior and attitudes expressed in the classroom or clinical placement site. Guidelines for Suitability and Capacity to Enter the Profession of Nursing
Abusive Criticism: The faculty and staff are open to receiving and responding to constructive suggestions. Processes are available to allow for appeals of grades and for other grievances. The expression of criticism or problems involving the use of abusive language or disruptive behavior directed toward faculty or staff will not be tolerated. Such behavior is inconsistent with professional standards and inappropriate for students aspiring to a career in nursing.
Inappropriate use of Social Media: The use of social media such as Facebook, YouTube, My Space, Twitter, Allnurses.com, blogs, etc. provide the ability for students to communicate with and receive support from their peers. However, students need to be aware that publishing information on these sites may be public for anyone to see and is able to be traced back to them as individuals. Nursing graduate students are preparing for a profession that provides services to the public and expects high standards of behavior. Appropriate netiquette is expected in all communication. HIPPA law and potential sanctions apply to information posted on social media. HIPAA violations related to patients cared for in the course of clinical work while in the FNP program at SUNY Brockport are grounds for immediate suspension upon full investigation and may lead to dismissal. The student must not disclose conﬁdential information related to individuals or agencies. Students must follow HIPAA guidelines at all times. Students may not post any information concerning clients/clinical rotations in any online forum or webpage. HIPAA violations, related to patients cared for in the course of clinical work while in the FNP program at SUNY Brockport are grounds for immediate suspension while pending full investigation and may lead to dismissal. Students are legally responsible for anything that they post in social media forums.
Inappropriate academic conduct: Nursing faculty expect all students to arrive on time for all clinical rotations, to remain in the clinical setting for the expected timeframe, and to follow the legitimate instructions of the instructor and clinical preceptor. Faculty members may establish additional ground rules for the behavior of students during clinical and online coursework. Faculty members establish the grading rules, work expectations for their courses, and include these in their course syllabi. Students are responsible for fulfilling the expectations as stated in course syllabi within the timeframe established by the course instructor. Students who falsify any clinical time logs or patient care documentation will be immediately dismissed from the program. Students may only use electronic devices (e.g., laptops, PDAs) with the permission of the instructor or clinical preceptor. Students who speak to faculty members or other students during class periods, in ways that are disrespectful and disruptive may be dismissed from the course without reimbursement, and in such cases, the students may incur a failing grade for the course, as well as additional penalties. Students participating in online courses must also exhibit appropriate conduct in all aspects of the course, including respectful communications (written, posted, and verbal), academic honesty, and timeliness of participation and fulfillment of assignments.
Severe maladaptation to the educational process as evidenced by:
1. student’s lack of ability to participate productively in a class or clinical situation.
2. a consistent pattern of inadequate class preparation.
3. a consistent pattern of late completion of assignments, irresponsible behavior in class or clinical placement site or a consistent pattern of absence from class or clinical.

Students will receive written notification from their nursing instructor or department chair of impending dismissal due to unsafe or unprofessional behavior. Students may be asked to leave a clinical site or classroom immediately in the event of unsafe or unprofessional behavior. Written notification will follow. Students will be given the opportunity to be heard. In the event of dismissal from the Program, the student will be informed of the right to appeal. University Grade Appeals Policy. Once dismissed from the graduate nursing program students are not eligible for readmission.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Department of Nursing Undergraduate Readmission Policy

The Traditional Faculty of the Department of Nursing makes undergraduate readmission decisions. The Department reserves the right to refuse readmission to the undergraduate nursing program. An undergraduate student may be readmitted, at the department’s discretion, after having failed a course. However, a student who fails a course is at serious risk for not being readmitted and losing his/her previous position in the nursing department. Readmission is on a competitive basis. If a student fails either a didactic course or a clinical course in the nursing program and is readmitted both the didactic and clinical courses must be repeated successfully. If a student fails a clinical course and the associated didactic course, then the student will be removed from the program without the opportunity to reapply the nursing major.

If an undergraduate student is readmitted and fails the course he/she is repeating or any other course within the nursing major, the student will be dismissed and will not be considered for readmission again.

Those applying for readmission to the undergraduate nursing program must re-apply to the Nursing Department and meet the current application deadline. Students who have been dismissed from the Nursing major will have conditions and requirements of readmission spelled out in a contract described in their letter of re-admission. The timeframe to fulfill any conditions will also be included in this letter. Readmission is not guaranteed.

Revised 5/11/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Graduate Readmission Policy

Graduate nursing students, in good academic standing, who do not maintain continuous enrollment or have an approved leave of absence in the graduate program will be dismissed from the program. These students may apply for readmission with a future cohort. These applicants are subject to the rules, procedures, curriculum and standards in place at the time of readmission. Readmission is not automatic and may be subject to the additional requirements set forth by the department. Students applying for readmission to the program complete the same application as those who are applying for admission to the program and are evaluated within the context of the application pool at the time of their application. Students who are dismissed from the program for course failures or unprofessional/dangerous behavior are not eligible to apply for readmission.

Baccalaureate Degree Graduation

PREPARATION FOR GRADUATION

Although graduation is a joyous time, there are many administrative tasks to be completed. One of these tasks is the Degree Progress Check done during the last semester of the junior year. This involves meeting with your faculty advisor and going over your academic record to help ensure that you have the correct number of credits and the appropriate coursework for graduation. You should remember that the final responsibility for meeting all graduation requirements for the Baccalaureate Degree rests with the student. Another task is to file an “intent to graduate document”. Please refer to the Registration and Records website to apply for graduation.

REQUIREMENTS FOR RN LICENSURE

Completion of the Nursing Program does not assure admission to attempt the licensure examination. Graduates of this Nursing Program meet the education requirements for admittance to the RN licensure exam; however, there is a requirement that the applicant be of “good moral character”, and a fee must be paid for the test. On the application for the test, the applicant is required to truthfully answer the following questions:

Have you ever been convicted of a crime (felony or misdemeanor) in any state or country?
Are charges pending against you for a crime (felony or misdemeanor) in any state or country?
Have you ever been found guilty of professional misconduct, unprofessional conduct or negligence in any state or country?
Are charges pending against you for professional misconduct, unprofessional conduct or negligence in any state or country?
If the answer to any of the questions is yes, the applicant must offer full explanation and establish his/her good moral character with the State Education Department.

Students will be directed to complete this process the semester of graduation.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Student Health Issues

In light of the demands, actual and potential, of the clinical settings for nursing courses, it is prudent that clinical faculty are aware of health issues that could affect student’s performance and/or patient care. Students are to inform clinical faculty if any such conditions exist or arise during clinical courses. If a student is unable to meet requirements to safely perform in clinical, then a medical clearance letter may be requested before resuming clinical duties.

Revised and Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Criminal Conviction Policy

Any student charged with or convicted of a crime before or after admittance to the Department of Nursing must discuss his/her situation individually and confidentially with the Chairperson of the Department of Nursing to assess his/her chances of eventual licensure as a registered nurse/nurse practitioner and the proper procedure to report his/her situation to the State Education Department.

In addition, some clinical agencies affiliated with the Department of Nursing require background checks on nursing students before allowing them to participate in clinical activities. Agency requirements are subject to change without notice. If a background check prohibits participation at certain clinical sites, the student may be unable to successfully complete clinical course requirements in the Department of Nursing. Inability to successfully complete clinical course requirements will result in failure of the clinical course and dismissal from the nursing program.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Policy and Procedure for Student Complaints That Do Not Involve Discrimination

A faculty member who receives a complaint, that does not involve discrimination, from a student about another faculty member should encourage that student to first speak directly with the person concerned, in an effort to resolve differences and feelings. If requested by the student, arrangements will be made for another faculty member or level coordinator to be present as well for the discussion.
If the student’s concerns persist, the student then should speak to the level coordinator or the director of the individual program, in an effort to resolve differences and feelings.
If the student’s concerns persist, the student should then speak with the chairperson of the nursing department.
The chairperson of the nursing department will discuss the situation with the student and attempt to affect a resolution.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Policy and Procedure for Student Complaints That Involve Discrimination

The Department of Nursing has zero tolerance for discrimination of any kind. If a student has a concern the following procedure should be followed:

If the student complaint is regarding discrimination of any kind, the student should be referred directly to the chairperson of the Department of Nursing.
The chairperson will inform the student of the discrimination complaint procedures in effect on the campus.
If the complaint is against the chairperson, the student should be referred directly to the dean for general complaints and to the Affirmative Action Director for complaints about discrimination.

Reviewed 5/14/21

Gender Discrimination and Sexual Harassment Policy

Gender discrimination and sexual harassment are prohibited in class. Title IX legislation requires the University to provide gender equity in all areas of campus life. If you or someone you know has experienced gender discrimination, sexual harassment, or sexual assault, we encourage you to seek assistance and to report the incident through resources available at www.brockport.edu/titleix/index.html Confidential assistance is available at Hazen Center for Integrated Care. For these and other regulations governing campus life, please see all of our Student Polices at www.brockport.edu/policies/index.php

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Policy on Electronic Devices and Social Media

Course instructors and staff of University facilities may place restrictions on the use of wireless communication devices and electronic devices in their classroom or facilities. Ringing cellular telephones and laptop computers used for instant messaging, game playing, Internet surfing, and other such activities are considered disruptive. After an initial warning, students who do not comply with the policy of the classroom/facility may be asked to leave for the remainder of the class/day. If students are asked to leave class because of such a disruption, instructors are not obligated to allow makeup of missed work. Having a wireless communication device in hand or using earphones connected to one during examinations will be grounds for charges of academic dishonesty. Using devices with video or photo features may result in charges of violating laws on intellectual property rights or invasion of privacy.

While in the clinical setting, use of cell phones, PDA’s and other electronic devices are prohibited. Faculty will provide specific information regarding the use of electronic devices for each clinical site. Violations of the policy will not be tolerated and will result in written counseling memo or a contract. Further information on Disruptive Behaviors, Academic Dishonesty, and Codes of Student Conduct, including potential sanctions, processes and rights to appeal may be found at /support/policies/student/index.php

Reviewed 5/14/21

Social Networking Ethics Policy

Any statement made or posting of any material, pictures or information within any venue of social networking (Facebook, twitter, etc.) which can cause actual or potential harm or injury to another person or to the Department of Nursing and/or SUNY Brockport itself will be grounds for dismissal from the nursing program.

Using social networking to contact preceptors or faculty is not an acceptable means of professional communication and will not be tolerated.

As a reminder, it is a violation of HIPAA policies to ever discuss any aspect of clinical care on social networking. Violation of HIPAA policy is subject to federal prosecution.

Reviewed 5/14/21

Policy on Student Access to Records

Students have the right of access to their own files in the Department of Nursing office. However, they may not remove their own files from the file cabinet—a secretary or a faculty member must do so for them.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Policy on Electronic Medical Record Access

Students MUST access Electronic Medical Records (EMRs) only with student-generated accounts. Students must never access the EMR when in clinical with an employee generated EMR account. Such access is a HIPPA violation and is grounds for dismissal from the nursing program.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

HIPAA Compliance Policy

Clinical faculty will sign the HIPPA confidentiality agreement at clinical agencies as required.
All students will receive a Notice of Information Practices, Uses and Disclosures of Health Information. Students will sign an acknowledgement of receipt of this notice during orientation to the program.
Students or their health care providers mail a health form to the nursing department. The department secretary opens the mail. Student health information will be kept in a secure location. Only department faculty and the secretary have access to this information.
Student health information will be kept for one year after a student’s graduation. It will then be shredded by the department secretary.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Notice of Information Practices

USES AND DISCLOSURE OF HEALTH INFORMATION

Student health information is obtained and kept on file in the Department of Nursing. This is done to fulfill the terms of written agreements between the Department of Nursing and clinical agencies with whom the department affiliates for clinical experiences. In general, a written authorization to release information is required from you to share health information with any third party not involved in your medical care. If you choose to sign an authorization to disclose information about you, you can later revoke that authorization to stop any future uses and disclosures.

Identifiable health information about you may be disclosed without your authorization to these affiliating agencies only to document that legal health requirements have been met.

INDIVIDUAL RIGHTS

In most cases and according to New York State Medical Records law, you have the right to review or receive a copy of your health information. You also have the right to receive a list of instances where we have disclosed health information about you for reasons other than related administrative purposes. If you believe that information in your record is incorrect or if important information is missing, you have the right to request a correction of the existing information or add the missing information.

COMPLAINTS

If you are concerned that your privacy rights have been violated, or you disagree with a decision made about access to your records, you may contact the person listed below. You may also send a written complaint to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The person listed below can provide you with the appropriate address upon request.

OUR LEGAL DUTY

The Department of Nursing is required by law to protect the privacy of your health information, provide this notice about our information practices, and follow the information practices that are described in this notice.

If you have questions or complaints, please contact the Chairperson of the Department of Nursing.

ExCEL Center Confidentiality Agreement

As a nursing student at SUNY Brockport, I will participate in clinical laboratory simulations. I understand that the content of these simulations will be kept confidential to maintain the integrity of the learning experience for my fellow students and me. I also understand that in working side by side with my fellow students I may be witnessing their performance. It would be unethical for me to share information regarding student performance with persons outside the laboratory.

I acknowledge that I fully understand that the unauthorized release, inappropriate exchange, or mishandling of confidential information is prohibited, and serious consequences may occur if I violate this agreement. I will exemplify the nursing values of integrity, human dignity, and confidentiality.

Signature _____________________________________________Date___________________

Photo/Video Release

I, (please print your name) _______________________________________________________, give SUNY Brockport permission to video/photograph my performance in clinical laboratories, practice lab sessions, and clinical simulations. These recorded sessions will be used to provide debriefing opportunities with the appropriate faculty, staff, and students. These videos may also be used for skill performance evaluations. I understand that the videos will only be used for educational purposes and that a Confidentiality Agreement will be signed by fellow students to protect my privacy and discourage inappropriate discussion of the video contents or my performance in the simulation or lab scenarios. I give permission for SUNY Brockport Department of Nursing to use the video for future review by appropriate faculty, staff, and students. All student recordings will be stored securely for one year post graduation. Recordings will then be destroyed or downloaded and archived securely within the Department of Nursing for up to seven years.

Signature __________________________________________Date_____________________

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Workforce Confidentiality Agreement

Confidentiality of Student Information

I understand and acknowledge that:
1. Services provided to students are private and confidential;
2. Students provide personal information with the expectation that it will be kept confidential and will only be used by authorized persons as necessary.
3. All personally identifiable information provided by students or regarding medical services provided to students, in whatever form such information exists, including oral, written, printed, photographic and electronic (collectively the “Confidential Information”) is strictly confidential and is protected by federal and state laws and regulations that prohibit its unauthorized use or disclosure; and
4. In my course of employment/affiliation with SUNY Brockport, I may be given access to certain Confidential Information. Disclosure, Use and Access
I agree that, except as authorized in connection with my assigned duties, I will not at any time use, access or disclose any Confidential Information to any person (including, but not limited to co-workers, friends and family members). I understand that this obligation remains in full force during the entire term of my employment/affiliation and continues in affect after such employment/affiliation terminates.
Confidentiality Policy: I agree that I will comply with confidentiality policies that apply to me as a result of my employment/affiliation.
Return of Confidential Information: Upon termination of my employment/affiliation for any reason, or at any other time upon request, I agree to promptly return to SUNY Brockport any copies of Confidential Information then in my possession or control (including all printed and electronic copies), unless retention is specifically required by law or regulation.
Periodic Certification: I understand that I will be required to periodically certify that I have complied in all respects with this Agreement, and I agree to so certify upon request.
Remedies: I understand and acknowledge that:
1. the restrictions and obligations I have accepted under this Agreement are reasonable and necessary in order to protect the interests of patients and SUNY Brockport, and
2. my failure to comply with this Agreement in any respect could cause irreparable harm to students and SUNY Brockport.

I therefore understand that SUNY Brockport may prevent me from violating this Agreement by any legal means available, in addition to disciplinary measures, which may result in sanctions in accordance with applicable policies and collective bargaining agreements.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Policy on Clinical Incident/Variance Reporting

The following procedure will be reviewed with the students during orientation at each clinical site.

Any incident involving a patient will be reported immediately to the clinical instructor.
The clinical instructor will ensure that agency personnel and physicians are notified.
The instructor will oversee the completion of the incident report following the agency policy and format for reporting of clinical incidents.
The student is not to answer questions regarding and/or discuss the incident except in the presence of the clinical instructor.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Dress Code for Traditional and Accelerated Students

Undergraduate students: The student uniform of the Department of Nursing indicates your affiliation with SUNY Brockport. As a representative of the program during your clinical experiences, you have the responsibility of maintaining a professional appearance at all times. The following is a list of requirements for your attire during your clinical experiences:

HOSPITAL AND OTHER HEALTH CARE FACILITIES

Undergraduate Nursing Students must wear the Department of Nursing white tunic and green pants

The Brockport emblem must be sewn on the left sleeve
Uniforms must be clean and pressed at all times

White or skin colored stockings or plain white socks

Plain, all white leather shoes/sneakers

No open toes or heels
These can be nursing shoes or walking shoes manufactured by sports companies
Shoes and laces must be clean at all times.
No clogs or open back shoes are allowed.
No canvas or nylon shoes are permitted (essentially any shoe material that body fluids can soak through are not allowed).
Ankle socks and knee socks should be worn with pants.
SHOES ARE RESERVED FOR CLINICAL USE ONLY

Students are required to buy a cotton sport shirt (polo) to wear to outside nursing experiences (anywhere that does not require the white nursing uniform such as community health and psych clinical experiences). The color will be forest green with white embroidery inscribing: SUNY Brockport Nursing.

A long sleeve plain white shirt may be worn under the white Brockport uniform top or the polo shirt for warmth. White underclothing is the only option to be worn under the uniform.

SUNY Brockport student pictures IDs must be worn to all clinical experiences and updated annually.

In addition, students in all clinical settings must have

Watch with second hand
Stethoscope. A sphygmomanometer
Black pens
Penlight

All students must maintain a professional appearance, which also requires:

Good personal hygiene
Short, clean fingernails with no polish
Hair that is clean, neat and off the collar of the uniform
No perfume or cologne
Minimal makeup
No chewing gum

Long hair must be worn up and secured well with plain band or clip

Beards and mustaches must be short and well groomed

Tobacco is a health risk. Therefore, students may not smoke or chew tobacco in any clinical setting.

JEWELRY POLICY:

The wearing of jewelry should be considered in the context of patient and student safety as well as projecting a student’s professional appearance.

A watch and ring (i.e. band) that do not have edges or prongs are acceptable.
Students may wear studs ONLY in piercings. Necklaces, bracelets, bangles and other items are not allowed for safety and infection control purposes.

BODY PIERCING & TATTOO POLICY:

While SUNY Brockport practices inclusivity, values diversity and recognizes that personal appearance is an important part of a person’s individuality and expression, the expectation is that professionalism and safety must be maintained both in the classroom and clinical site.

Please note, if a clinical site requires a more stringent policy, the student will be expected to follow the policy of the facility they are at for clinical.

Body Piercings:

Ear lobe piercings and small stud/post style earrings are acceptable. Hoop earrings are not permitted in the ear lobes. Upper ear and cartilage piercings are permitted but a student may be required to discreetly cover them with a properly sized bandage as a safety consideration; clear plastic retainer styles may also be worn as an alternative. Solid gauge posts that are of neutral color and matching skin tone are to be worn if a student has gauged earlobes.
Facial and oral piercings are not permitted with the exception of a single nose (nostril only) piercing. Nose piercings must be stud style, minimal in size and unobtrusive. Nose hoops are not permitted. Other facial piercings must preferably be removed or discreetly covered with a properly sized bandage; clear plastic retainer styles may also be worn as an alternative.

Tattoos:

Tattoos may be visible if the images or words do not convey violence, discrimination, profanity or sexually explicit content, and as agency policy allows. Tattoos containing such messages must be covered with bandages, clothing or cosmetics. Bandages must be kept clean, dry and intact, and must not interfere with student’s ability to perform tasks. SUNY Brockport Department of Nursing Student Affairs Committee faculty reserve the right to make a decision about whether or not a student’s visible tattoo is appropriate. Students may not use hospital materials to cover tattoos.

Artificial enhancements:

No artificial nails are permitted particularly since they harbor staph bacteria (per CDC).
No nail polish.
Hair color should be natural tones.

According to the research on professional appearance – people acquire a perception of you that translates into perceived care.
Noncompliance to the dress code will lead to disciplinary action by the supervising faculty member and depending on the seriousness of the infraction, could result in probation or dismissal from the program.

Reviewed and revised 5/14/21

Graduate Dress Code

All graduate students are required to wear their University identification badge and should meet the dress code of any agency to which he/she is assigned. In addition, all graduate students should have a white lab coat available for all clinical sites and on campus test out days. The faculty supervisor will inform students of particular regulations associated with the clinical site.

Graduate students should bring appropriate items to their clinical site including watch, stethoscope, pen and mobile device with drug guide and current treatment guidelines apps.

All students must maintain a professional appearance, which also requires:

Good personal hygiene
Short, clean fingernails with no polish
Hair that is clean, neat and off the collar of the uniform
No perfume or cologne
Minimal makeup
No chewing gum

Long hair must be worn up and secured well with plain band or clip

Beards and mustaches must be short and well groomed

Tobacco is a health risk. Therefore, students may not smoke or chew tobacco in any clinical setting.

JEWELRY POLICY:

The wearing of jewelry should be considered in the context of patient and student safety as well as projecting a student’s professional appearance.

There can be no nametags or ID badges that dangle. They need to clip or pin on the uniform.
A watch and ring (i.e. band) that do not have edges or prongs are acceptable.

BODY PIERCING & TATTOO POLICY

Please note, if a clinical site requires a more stringent policy, the student will be expected to follow the policy of the facility they are at for clinical.

Body Piercings:

Ear lobe piercings and small stud/post style earrings are acceptable. Hoop earrings are not permitted in the ear lobes. Upper ear and cartilage piercings are permitted but a student may be required to discreetly cover them with a properly sized bandage as a safety consideration; clear plastic retainer styles may also be worn as an alternative. Solid gauge posts that are of neutral color and matching skin tone are to be worn if a student has gauged earlobes.
Facial and oral piercings are not permitted with the exception of a single nose (nostril only) piercing. Nose piercings must be stud style, minimal in size and unobtrusive. Nose hoops are not permitted. Other facial piercings must preferably be removed or discreetly covered with a properly sized bandage; clear plastic retainer styles may also be worn as an alternative.

Tattoos:

Tattoos may be visible if the images or words do not convey violence, discrimination, profanity or sexually explicit content, and as agency policy allows. Tattoos containing such messages must be covered with bandages, clothing or cosmetics. Bandages must be kept clean, dry and intact, and must not interfere with student’s ability to perform tasks. SUNY Brockport Department of Nursing Student Affairs Committee faculty reserve the right to make a decision about whether or not a student’s visible tattoo is appropriate. Students may not use hospital materials to cover tattoos.

Artificial enhancements:

No artificial nails are permitted particularly since they harbor staph bacteria (per CDC).
No nail polish.

According to the research on professional appearance – people acquire a perception of you that translates into perceived care.

Noncompliance to the dress code will lead to disciplinary action by the supervising faculty member and depending on the seriousness of the infraction, could result in probation or dismissal from the program.

Reviewed and revised 5/14/21

Policy on Student or Faculty Injury at Clinical or Exposure to Blood or Bodily Fluids

According to the contracts that are issued between the schools of nursing and the hospitals, should a student or faculty member be injured during clinical, “The hospital agrees to make available medical care at the request and expense of faculty and students who may become ill or may be injured while on duty. Upon written requests from the faculty or student, reports of such illness or accident will be sent to the college/university.” The student or faculty member may be seen in the emergency department, by employee health, or may choose to see his/her own primary care provider, based on the extent and severity of illness or injury.

If a student or faculty member sustains a needle stick injury, blood or body fluid splash, cut from any device used in a patient, etc., the department manager/nursing should be contacted urgently. He/she will advise the student and/or faculty member on how to proceed and cleanse the area as noted in the facility’s blood/body fluid exposure policy.

Some exposures may be true medical emergencies depending on the source of the patient’s medical problems or the type of injury that occurred. Therefore, the nursing supervisor/ department manager may then refer the student or faculty member to Employee Health Service or the Emergency Department if indicated.

Again, students and faculty are responsible for their own medical expenses, including the urgent/emergent care received at the hospital site. The student or faculty member may need to obtain ongoing follow-up care with their Primary Care Provider and take post-exposure prophylactic treatment, which can be costly. The expenses incurred by the ongoing follow-up care will also be the responsibility of the student or faculty member. Faculty members who are injured while teaching in a clinical setting should follow appropriate guidelines from human resources and may need to file an accident report available at /support/human_resources/docs/accidentform.pdf#search=work%20injury

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Health Requirements for the Department of Nursing

All students must submit required health forms that include a completed physical examination on the appropriate form as designated by the nursing department by a date determined by the individual program. The provider must verify that the student is physically and emotionally capable of participating in a full program of study in clinical nursing. This verification includes documentation of a negative 2-Step PPD, QuantiFERON testing, T-spot results, or negative chest x-ray. Immunization status and compliance with NY State MMR regulations are also required. There must be documentation of the dates of administration of the 3-part vaccine against hepatitis B or a signed declination. In addition, ALL students must receive an annual flu vaccination. Students who do not receive a flu vaccine will be required to complete the Flu declination form and wear a respiratory mask at clinical during the influenza season. Students may be barred from clinical by the hospital for failure to immunize. If this occurs, the student will be unable to progress in the nursing program and may face dismissal if they are unable to obtain an approved alternate clinical site. The only exception to vaccination are students who provide documentation of a medical exemption. See further details in the Vaccination Policy.

Failure to submit this verification of physical and emotional health will prevent participating in the clinical experience.

Approved 9/25/20 Reviewed 5/14/21

VACCINATION POLICY FOR THE TRADITIONAL AND ACCELERATED NURSING PROGRAMS

Before beginning the nursing program, all students must comply with current SUNY, NYS, and clinical/program-specific vaccination requirements. Students are responsible for ensuring their vaccination status is updated throughout the program. Failure to do so may result in an inability to complete the clinical and course requirements in the program and lead to program dismissal.

All nursing students must be vaccinated for influenza annually. Medical exemptions are the only vaccination exemptions recognized in NYS. Students with a documented medical exemption are required to submit the medical exemption form before any clinical courses are taken. This form must be completed by a New York State licensed physician, physician assistant, nurse practitioner, or licensed midwife. Documentation must include verification of the specific medical contraindication. The form will be reviewed by the Clinical Coordinator and Program Director and a determination of acceptance or lack of acceptance for the exemption will be made. Students may be required to produce additional documentation if a sound exemption is not established. In the event that the medical exemption is not accepted the student has the right to appeal the decision to the Chairperson of the Department.

Influenza is a serious respiratory disease. Each year in the United States, influenza kills thousands of people and causes hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations. Influenza vaccination is required of all HCWs in New York State to protect staff and patients from influenza, its complications and death. Influenza can be shed and transmitted for 24 or more hours before symptoms appear. Nurses infected with influenza, even with mild or non-existent symptoms can spread the virus to others who may be immunocompromised leading to severe illness or death. The ANA Code of Ethics for Nurses supports nurses having appropriate flu vaccination, including Provision 3, which states, “The nurse promotes, advocates for and protects the rights, health and safety of patients.” Nursing students who refuse the flu vaccine will be required to sign a vaccination declination form and to wear a mask in a clinical setting throughout the influenza season. In addition, clinical sites may refuse placement of nursing students who are not vaccinated appropriately.

In the event that a clinical site refuses placement of an unvaccinated student the student will not be able to complete their clinical requirements. The inability of a student to complete their assigned clinical hours may result in course dismissal/failure and dismissal from the program since they will not be able to progress in the program.

If the student changes his/her mind and accepts the influenza vaccine after a clinical site declines his/her placement due to lack of vaccination the student will still be responsible for securing an additional appropriate clinical site if that site is no longer available.

9/20/2020 Reviewed 5/14/21

VACCINATION POLICY FOR THE GRADUATE PROGRAM

In the event that a clinical site refuses placement of an unvaccinated student, it is the student’s responsibility to make arrangements for an appropriate clinical experience and have this site and preceptor approved by the Clinical Coordinator. It can take several months to process the required paperwork and contracts for a clinical site and the student will not be able to begin clinical until those requirements have been satisfied. The student will be responsible for the cost associated with any of these arrangements including additional faculty supervision time if necessary. The inability of a student to secure an appropriate site that will accept him/her in a timely manner may result in course dismissal/failure. The program will not attempt to secure an additional clinical site for the student under these circumstances.

Updated 9/20/2020

Malpractice Insurance

SUNY’S Malpractice insurance coverage is sufficient to cover students and faculty. Students have a $21 fee assessed on each off campus clinical course. Malpractice insurance is also provided for graduate students who are assessed a $35 fee for each clinical course (NUR 500, NUR 550, and NUR 600) each semester regardless of any outside malpractice policies the student may have in place. This is a required charge mandated by SUNY.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Transportation Policy

Transportation to and from all clinical sites is the student’s responsibility. Clinical sites may be at various locations within the Western New York Region. Public transportation is not readily available to reach sites outside of the Brockport community. We are not able to guarantee clinical sites that are accessible without regular access to a reliable vehicle. The cost of transportation to clinical sites and parking at clinical sites is the responsibility of the student and varies depending on the distance and options available.

Undergraduate students need to have transportation to and from alternative experiences that they will be assigned individually during BOTH the junior and senior years. It is in the student’s best interest to have their driving license and a vehicle to meet student nursing clinical expectations both years of the undergraduate program. Not having transportation available to reach a clinical site may result in failure of a clinical course due to the inability to meet all course objectives without the included clinical experience.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Communication Policies

ADVISORS

All students should have a nursing advisor that they see at least once every semester to plan course schedules. This is especially important for TRANSFER students who need very careful advisement to ensure all requirements for graduation are met.
An advisor’s signature and a key number are required in order to register for classes for the succeeding semester. Students should participate in an advisement session each semester. Please schedule an appointment in order to plan your schedule.
Nursing advisors will also be available to assist students with any difficulties that may arise in the classroom and clinical arena. Please contact the nursing department secretary and request an advisor as needed.

FACULTY AVAILABILITY

Students may communicate with faculty by email or by office phone. Course faculty will make every attempt to respond within 24 hours during weekdays. Faculty are not expected to respond to student messages over weekends and holidays. In case of emergencies, students may contact faculty using the phone numbers given at orientation. Nursing faculty have regular office hours when they are available to see students. Individual appointments may also be made by making an appointment with the department secretary on the faculty’s advisement schedule.

Mailfiles

Each traditional and accelerated nursing student is assigned a file folder for communication purposes. Important information is distributed through the file folder “mailboxes”; therefore, it is necessary to check them every day while on campus. The mailboxes are located in the computer lab.

BLACKBOARD

It is critical to check email or Blackboard frequently. Students are expected to respond to faculty emails within 48 hours during the semester. It is also expected that students will check email during university breaks, as emails may be sent to students at this time also.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Policies Specific to the Graduate Nursing Program

Please see the Graduate School Handbook or university wide policies.

Graduate Course Transfer Policy

A maximum of 9 credits of non-clinical coursework will be considered for transfer from another accredited graduate nursing program. It is the student’s responsibility to submit the course syllabus and an official transcript to the graduate program director for consideration of transfer credit. Transfer credit is only considered for outside coursework completed before enrolling in the graduate program. Once admitted to the graduate program students are required to complete all remaining coursework in the program at SUNY Brockport.

Admitted students may not enroll at outside institutions and transfer any additional required coursework in place of required coursework in the program.

Only courses taken within the last five years will be considered for transfer credit.

Approved 8/20/19 Reviewed 5/14/21

Non-Matriculated Status/Courses Policy

Before being admitted to the graduate nursing program (non-matriculated status), eligible students may be able to complete up to 9 credits of non-clinical coursework in the FNP program on a space available basis. All non-matriculated students must meet with the program director before enrolling in any graduate program courses. Non-matriculated students must maintain continuous enrollment in appropriate courses. Permission codes will be provided by the program director after evaluation is made that the course has seats available and the student is adequately prepared for the academic expectations. Up to 9 credits of approved coursework, taken as a non-matriculated student and completed with a grade of B or higher, will be applied to the graduate degree requirements if the student is admitted to the graduate FNP program the subsequent year. Courses taken as a non-matriculated student more than a year before applying for admission will be evaluated for credit within the program on a case-by-case basis. Taking courses as a non-matriculated student does not guarantee admission to the graduate FNP program.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Clinical Site Placement Policy

Ensuring an appropriate clinical site placement is secured is ultimately the student’s responsibility. The graduate program’s clinical coordinator will work with students who identify appropriate preceptors who are willing to provide supervision/clinical oversight within appropriate clinical sites. However, the clinical coordinator must assess the educational sufficiency of both the site and the preceptor as well as ensuring that the necessary contracts/agreements are in place before clinical rotations can begin. This requires adequate time. In the event that the clinical coordinator is unable or unwilling to accommodate student preferences, students will be assigned an appropriate clinical site and must accommodate the scheduling expectations of the clinical site. Students who decline to accommodate the assigned schedule may be dismissed from the program.

Clinical sites all have their own onboarding requirements before clinical rotations can begin. For some sites, these requirements include a full background check which does require some additional time to complete. Students must comply with all onboarding requirements of the site they will be attending. Failure to do so may result in an inability to complete the program successfully.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Part-Time/Full Time Status Policy

Students are admitted as part-time or full-time matriculated students to the FNP program. Part-time students take up to 6 credits a semester. Full time students take 9 or more credits a semester. Permission from the graduate program director is required to change status from part-time to full-time and vice versa. It is important to see your academic advisor before you request a change in your program plan to ensure you are meeting the necessary requirements for successful completion in a timely manner. Once admitted, all students must maintain continuous registration (fall and spring) for a minimum of three credit hours unless a formal leave of absence is approved. All students must make continuous progress toward the degree or certificate. Any student who does not maintain continuous enrollment without approval of a formal leave of absence is automatically dismissed from the program and ineligible to return without reapplying to the program. Readmission will be evaluated with consideration of the additional applicants in the application cycle.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Leave of Absence Policy for the Traditional & Accelerated Program

Students in good academic standing may request a leave of absence (LOA) from the Traditional or Accelerated program during their course of study. Students on academic probation are not eligible for a LOA. Students who leave in good academic standing will return in good academic standing; students who leave on contract will return on contract. It is recommended that students discuss their LOA request with their advisor or program director prior to submission. Please review the University’s leave of absence policy for important details: /academics/advisement/temporary_academic_leave

A leave of absence may be granted for compelling reasons such as illness, military duty, or parental leave (maternity or paternity). Requests for a LOA to gain work experience or because of work schedule conflicts will not be granted. Leaves are ordinarily granted for no more than 6 months. Documentation from a health care provider must accompany a request for a medical LOA.

If a medical leave is granted, it is expected that students are actively engaged in a course of medical treatment that leads to recovery.

Prior to re-enrollment, students will need to demonstrate the condition which precluded enrollment during your leave has resolved sufficiently to allow student to return to clinical and coursework. Students are required to provide a letter from their healthcare provider indicating they are able to resume all aspects of the program.

The effective withdrawal date of a LOA is the date that all required paperwork is submitted to the Office of Student Services. This date determines the amount of tuition reimbursement (if applicable). Students withdrawing from term courses should also review the Withdrawal Policy.

While on an approved LOA, students are not permitted to enroll in courses, be involved in student groups or University-affiliated activities or spend time on campus during leave.

After a Leave of Absence, failure to enroll in the designated term and year results in the automatic withdrawal of the student by the University.

Curriculum and/or program plans are subject to change while a student is on an LOA, such as but not limited to: graduation and course requirements, credit load and course term offerings, and enrollment status. Students are responsible to keep in contact with their Program Director while on leave to ensure they are aware and understand any new academic changes.

Students returning after a leave of absence from the program that exceeds six months will be required to complete assessment(s) to ensure students are prepared to provide safe, quality nursing care. Students must contact the ExCEL Center director to arrange time to meet assessment requirements prior to the start of the semester they return. The assessment(s) will include:

Successful demonstration of Foundational skills (NUR 343).
Successful completion of a head-to-toe assessment (NUR 344) with a score of 85 or greater.
Completion of medication calculation assessment (NUR 328).

Based upon each student’s performance on the above assessments, students will be provided one opportunity to remediate and re-demonstrate. An individual action plan for improvement will be developed, if necessary, to assist the student to successfully re-integrate into the undergraduate program; all students are expected to fully comply with any individual action plan. Failure to meet these competencies will prevent progression and may result in dismissal from the nursing program.

Clinical courses will need to be repeated if a leave is approved for greater than 1-year. Required coursework will be at the discretion of the program director and will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Students are encouraged to contact their program director prior to, as well as upon return of leave.

Approved 5/14/21

Temporary Academic Leave for the Graduate Program

Students in good academic standing may request Temporary Academic Leave (TAL) from the graduate program during their course of study. Students on academic probation are not eligible for a TAL. All students who return from TAL will return on contract detailing expectations for completion of their program. Please review SUNY Brockport’s TAL policy for important details.

TAL may be granted for compelling reasons such as illness, military duty, or parental leave. Requests for a TAL because of work schedule conflicts will not be granted. Leaves are ordinarily granted for no more than 1 semester. Documentation from a health care provider must accompany a request for a medical TAL.

If a medical leave is granted, it is expected that students are actively engaged in a course of medical and/or mental health treatment that leads to recovery.
Prior to re-enrollment, students will need to demonstrate the condition which precluded enrollment during the leave has resolved sufficiently to allow student to return to clinical and coursework. Students are required to provide a letter from their healthcare provider indicating they can resume all aspects of the program.

The effective withdrawal date of a TAL is the date that all required paperwork is submitted to the Academic Success Center. This date determines the amount of tuition reimbursement (if applicable). Students withdrawing from courses should also review the Withdrawal and Progression Policies.

Curriculum and/or program plans are subject to change while a student is on TAL, such as but not limited to graduation and course requirements, credit load and course term offerings, and enrollment status. Students are responsible to keep in contact with their advisor or program director while on leave to ensure they are aware and understand any new academic changes. Students on leave for may be required to repeat clinical experience prior to their return at the discretion of the program director.

Students returning after TAL from the program that exceeds 1 semester will be required to complete assessment(s) to ensure students are prepared to provide safe, quality advanced practice nursing care. Students must contact the clinical track coordinator to arrange time to meet assessment requirements prior to the start of the semester they return. The assessment(s) will include:

Successful completion of a head-to-toe assessment (NUR 545) with a score of 84 or greater.
Completion of pharmacology assessment (NUR 521).
Successful demonstration of clinical skill components and knowledge included in previous clinical courses (NUR 500, NUR 550, and NUR 600).

Based upon each student’s performance on the above assessments, students will be provided one opportunity to remediate and re-demonstrate. If necessary, an individual action plan for improvement will be developed to assist the student to successfully re-integrate into the graduate program; all students are expected to fully comply with any individual action plan. Failure to meet these competencies will prevent progression and may result in dismissal from the graduate nursing program.

Approved 4/29/22

Nurse Practitioner Certifications, Educational Completion Verifications and Hospital Certification Requests

A leave of absence is only granted in exceptional circumstances such as prolonged illness or unusual personal hardship and requires detailed justification. Leaves are generally granted for six months. An extension may be provided for another six months with a maximum leave time of one year. When a leave of absence is granted, the period of leave is not counted against the time to completion requirement for the degree.

Approved 5/4/18 Reviewed 5/14/21

Nursing Handbook

SUNY BrockportDepartment of NursingReview Verification of Student Handbook

Department of Nursing Student Handbook

Mission of the Department of Nursing

Program Vision Statement

Department of Nursing Program Philosophy

Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)

BACCALUAREATE STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES

GRADUATE STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES

Department of Nursing Committees

RESPONSIBILITIES OF STUDENT REPRESENTATIVES

DEPARTMENT OF NURSING FACULTY MEETING:

LEVEL MEETINGS (LEVELS 1, 2, 3, RN-BSN, ACCELERATED):

UNDERGRADUATE CURRICULUM COMMITTEE:

UNDERGRADUATE EVALUATION COMMITTEE:

GRADUATE CURRICULUM/EVALUATION COMMITTEE

STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE:

APPOINTMENT, PROMOTION AND TENURE COMMITTEE (APT):

STUDENT/ALUMNI AFFAIRS COMMITTEE:

TRADITIONAL PROGRAM ADMISSION AND PROGRESSION COMMITTEE:

RN-BSN PROGRAM ADMISSION AND PROGRESSION COMMITTEE:

ACCELERATED PROGRAM ADMISSION AND PROGRESSION COMMITTEE:

GRADUATE PROGRAM ADMISSION AND PROGRESSION COMMITTEE:

SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE:

INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION COMMITTEE:

OMICRON BETA NURSING HONOR SOCIETY:

The Excellence in Clinical Education and Learning (ExCEL) Center

EXCEL CENTER MISSION STATEMENT

EXCEL CENTER VISION STATEMENT

PRACTICE LAB POLICY FOR UNDERGRADUATE TRADITIONAL AND ACCELERATED STUDENTS

Nursing Deliberate Practice Session/Practice Lab Policies

Nurse Practice Act (Effective 1995)

Guidelines for Suitability and Capacity to Enter the Profession of Nursing

Professional Behaviors Expected of Nursing Students

American Nurses Association Code of Ethics

NATIONAL STATE BOARDS OF NURSING BROCHURE (NCSBN) “A NURSE’S GUIDE TO THE USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA” (PDF)

Technical Standards for the Undergraduate Nursing Program

Technical Standards for the Graduate Nursing Program

Disability Statement

Department of Nursing Guidelines for Academic Dishonesty

GENERAL

DEFINITIONS

Guidelines for Writing Papers in All Programs Within the Department of Nursing:

Undergraduate Examination Guidelines for Traditional and Accelerated Students

Examination Integrity Policy

UNDERGRADUATE EXAMINATION POLICY STATEMENT FOR TRADITIONAL AND ACCELERATED STUDENTS

Responsibility of Students:

Policy on Use of Alcohol, Drugs and Other Mood Altering Substances

IN THE CLASSROOM SETTING:

IN THE CLINICAL SETTING:

Attendance Policy: Class and Clinical

ATTENDANCE POLICY:

CLASSROOM:

CLINICAL:

Nursing Remediation Process for the Undergraduate Nursing Program

REMEDIATION MAY BE CONSIDERED WHEN A NURSING STUDENT:

PURPOSE:

DESCRIPTION OF THE PROCESS:

Program Continuation

WITHIN A COURSE:

WITHIN A LEVEL:

Progression Policy for the Traditional and Accelerated Undergraduate Nursing Programs

LEVEL I

LEVEL II

LEVEL III

Progression Policy for the RN-BSN Program

Graduate Program Progression Policy

PREREQUISITE COURSES:

CLINICAL PRACTICUM PROGRESSION:

COURSE FAILURES:

Incomplete Grade Contracts in the Undergraduate Program

Incomplete Grade Contracts in the Graduate Program

Dismissal Policy for the Traditional and Accelerated Undergraduate Nursing Programs

Dismissal Policy for the RN-BSN Program

Dismissal Policy for the Graduate Program

Department of Nursing Undergraduate Readmission Policy

Graduate Readmission Policy

Baccalaureate Degree Graduation

PREPARATION FOR GRADUATION

REQUIREMENTS FOR RN LICENSURE

SUNY Brockport
Department of Nursing
Review Verification of Student Handbook