Â鶹AV

Â鶹AV EEO/AA Statement

Â鶹AV is committed to nondiscrimination practices based upon race, gender, gender identity and expression, disability, age, religion, national origin, genetic information, or veteran status. Our commitment is to provide equal opportunities as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and subsequent amendments, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title IX of the Educational Amendments Act of 1972, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 and subsequent amendments, the Vietnam Era Veterans Assistance Act of 1974, the Equal Pay Act of 1963 and subsequent amendments, the Americans with Disabilities Act and subsequent amendments, Texas Statute 6252-14-V.T.C.S., Executive Orders 11246 and 11758, and the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008 to students, employees, programs, activities, and applicants. Â鶹AV is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action institution.

Course Disruption

Due to circumstances beyond our control, for example COVID-19 pandemic, understand that class/labs/clinical could potentially be converted from face-to-face to remote learning or be disrupted, and may result in an Incomplete for the course that was disrupted, or a possible delay in graduation. In that event, when courses can resume, the days and times to make up the content may be different from those originally designated. All effort will be given to provide adequate notice of any possible day/time changes, and the learner understands that they are required to attend those adjusted days/times to complete the requirements of the curricula.

Step 1 – Apply for Admission to Â鶹AV

1. Apply for admission to Â鶹AV by clicking the gold "Apply Now" button on the TC home page. You must meet all TSI requirements in order to apply for nursing.
2. Submit official transcripts from all colleges attended to TC Admissions & Records.
3. Complete prerequisite courses below with a minimum grade of "C" or better. All Biology courses must be within 10 years of application.
   • BIOL 2401 – Anatomy and Physiology I
   • BIOL 2402 – Anatomy and Physiology II
4. Take the HESI Admission Assessment (A2). A minimum cumulative score of 80 is required in order to apply.
5. Applicants must be 18 years old by the first day of class.

Step 2 – Apply to the Â鶹AV Vocational Nursing Program

To submit the online Vocational Nursing Application during the application window:

• Go to the Â鶹AV Vocational Nursing webpage.
• Before applying, read the following documents under the Application Procedure tab:
  • Application Instructions
  • Immunizations, CPR & Drug Screening
  • Core Performance Standards
  • Texas Board of Nursing Background Check Process
  • Transcripts and Transfer Information
• Click on the Apply to Nursing button to start a new nursing application.

Students seeking admission to the VN program are admitted on the basis of the following criteria, with maximum point totals awarded as indicated:

Admission to the nursing program is determined during the spring for the summer semester. In the case of competitive admissions, requirements over and above the minimum will be necessary. Admission to Â鶹AV does not constitute automatic acceptance into the nursing program. In the event an application is rejected, the applicant may request a review by the Nursing Department.

Conditional Admission Requirements

Applicants will be notified by email whether or not they are conditionally accepted into the program. If conditionally accepted, you will receive instructions on completing the following requirements. Do not submit any of these items with your application.

1. An acknowledgment that you are able to meet the Core Performance Standards for Nursing will be required.
2. Immunizations required by clinical partners (must be kept current throughout the program):
   • Current Tetanus (Tdap) – documented vaccination less than 10 years old
   • MMR – a documented series of two vaccinations or a positive titer
   • Varicella - two vaccinations (or positive titer) OR "history of disease" on letterhead reported by a physician
   • Influenza - you will be required to get the flu vaccination each year in Fall. After you are accepted into the program you will be given instructions on when to get your yearly flu shot.
   • Tuberculosis (TB) Screening – Must have been done within one year of classes starting, and no older.
   • Hepatitis B Vaccination – Must show proof of a complete Hepatitis B series or a positive titer. There is a 3-dose series and a 2-dose series. Please take note of which series you are taking. If you have not started your Hepatitis B series at the time of application you MUST receive the 2-dose series OR an accelerated 3-dose series in order to be completed on time and be eligible to attend clinicals.
3. A drug screen will be required. Specific instructions will be sent via email to those selected for the program.
4. Health Insurance is a requirement for some of the clinical sites our nursing students attend. If you do not have or plan to get health insurance upon enrollment, it may limit the number of clinical sites you can attend. However, it is not required for admission to Â鶹AV.
5. A satisfactory background check (specific instructions will be sent via email). The Texas Board of Nursing will conduct the background check. Students must be cleared by the Board of Nursing before being allowed to register for nursing courses. Failure to be cleared by the Board of Nursing by the designated date will prevent admission. Any healthcare facility associated with Â鶹AV may also require a background check. Permission to perform the background check must be given by the student. Failure to give permission for the background check will result in dismissal from the program. It may be necessary to deny admission or dismiss students from the program if they are barred from practicing at any healthcare facility.
6. Written documentation of successful completion of an American Heart Association CPR course designed for healthcare professionals (e.g., Basic Life Support for Healthcare Professionals). Online-only CPR courses are not acceptable; all courses must include a hands-on skills portion.

Transfer to the TC VN Program from Another Nursing Program

Transfer students must apply and meet all VN Program requirements for admission.

Transfer students who have more than one nursing course failure within two years of transfer will not be considered.

Students who have been dismissed from a nursing program for unsafe or unprofessional conduct will be required to provide information regarding the circumstances and will be subject to a review to determine eligibility to be enrolled.

All nursing courses must have been completed within one (1) year prior to the program start date to be eligible for transfer. Any nursing coursework outside this time frame will not be accepted for transfer. The student will be required to re-enroll in the nursing courses.

All policies specified by Â鶹AV for accepting transfer students will apply (see the College Catalog). Required non-nursing courses will be evaluated for transferability by the Director of Admissions and Records.

Required nursing courses will be evaluated for transferability by the Nursing Department Chair. The student will be responsible for providing a copy of an official transcript to the Nursing department. The student may also be asked to provide a course description, syllabus, and/or course objectives. Prior to the final determination, the Nursing Department Chair may request the student to provide further information and may consult with specific faculty regarding the acceptability of potential nursing transfer courses into the Â鶹AV curriculum. Some learning activities may be required to review and validate the student's knowledge and skills.

Upon final determination of the transferability of any courses, the Nursing Department Chair will approve the curriculum plan to be followed by the transfer student.

Promotion

Once a student is accepted into and begins the VN program, it is expected that the student will continue to progress directly to the next semester's courses. In order to do this, the student must:

1. Have completed all previously required courses with a "C" grade (2.0 on a 4.0 scale) or better.
2. Maintain good academic standing (see the College Catalog).
3. Meet all general Â鶹AV requirements (be approved for registration).
4. No more than one failed nursing course may be repeated during the program, and that course may be repeated only once.

Grading Scale

Withdrawal/Dismissal from the VN Program

A student who intends to withdraw should schedule an appointment with the Nursing Department Chair prior to making a final decision to withdraw from the program. The Nursing Department Chair will provide a form that will need to be presented to Advising in order to withdraw from the course(s).

A student may be dismissed from the VN program for:

1. Failure to achieve minimum acceptable grades in more than one required course.
2. Failure to pass all required skills.
3. Unsatisfactory clinical performance that endangers others, or is a potential danger to others, as determined by the clinical instructor.
4. Failure to meet Essential Requirements of Core Performance Measures.
5. Failure to meet attendance requirements.
6. Violation of VN program or Â鶹AV policies.
7. Failure to follow instructions from an instructor and/or Director.

Returning Students

If a student is unsuccessful in one course, the student must return within one academic year. A student is allowed to withdraw from courses one semester only and must return within one academic year. Upon returning, the student must be successful in all remaining coursework throughout the program. If the student does not return within that time frame, they must reapply as a new student and repeat all nursing coursework.

Students that are returning must sign a contract for readmission and complete an Academic Success Plan in order to return to the VN Program.

Readmission to the VN Program

If a student is unsuccessful in two or more courses, or withdraws from any course as a returning student, they will be dismissed from the program and must wait two years to reapply. At that time, they will be required to apply as a new student and repeat any previous nursing courses.All policies specified by Â鶹AV for readmitting students will apply (see the College Catalog).

Admission to the Bridging Track

Current VN students are eligible to apply to the ADN Bridging program in spring prior to completing the VN program. If you are a currently enrolled VN student at the time of application, you must successfully complete your VN program. Upon admission, you will have a deadline to pass NCLEX-PN in order to remain in the program.

Students desiring admission to the Bridging track must follow the admission steps listed on the ADN Website and provide proof of:

• Graduation from a VN program or Paramedic/Medic program (or current enrollment).
• A valid Texas VN license in good standing, without disciplinary action or stipulations (not just a Compact License). Paramedics/Medics must have a current Texas Paramedic license or Medic/Corpsman certificate. The license must remain current throughout the program.
• If you graduated one year or more prior to application, you must have worked as an LVN/Paramedic a minimum of 6 months full-time or 1 year part-time within the year prior to application. Proof of employment may be required. This requirement is waived for current VN students accepted into the program who begin immediately upon graduation.

Admission to the Bridging track is determined during the early spring for the summer semester. Admission to Â鶹AV does not constitute automatic acceptance into the nursing program. In the event an application is not accepted for admission to the nursing program, the applicant may request a review by the Nursing Department.

Student Learning Outcomes

1. Utilize clinical reasoning and knowledge as a basis for vocational nursing practice.
2. Provide a safe environment for patients, self, and others.
3. Provide safe, compassionate, basic nursing care to a diverse population.
4. Communicate and collaborate with the patient and interdisciplinary healthcare team to facilitate quality patient-centered care.
5. Practice nursing within a legal-ethical framework consistent with nursing practice standards.

Vocational Nursing Level 2 Certificate Curriculum

Nursing courses must be taken in the semester listed below. Completion of all courses at any level is a requirement to progress to the next level.

Course Descriptions

Numbers in parentheses: (Semester credit hours: Lecture hours – lab/clinical hours). "R-W-M" TSI compliance is required in Reading, Writing & Math.

VNSG 1119 – Leadership and Professional Development (1:1-0)

Study of the importance of professional growth. Topics include the role of the licensed vocational nurse in the multi-disciplinary health care team, professional organizations, and continuing education.

Prerequisites: VNSG 1204 Foundations of Nursing

VNSG 1204 – Foundations of Nursing (2:2-0)

Introduction to the nursing profession including history, standards of practice, legal and ethical issues, and role of the vocational nurse. Topics include mental health, therapeutic communication, cultural and spiritual diversity, nursing process, and holistic awareness.

Co-requisites: VNSG 1260 Clinical I

VNSG 1234 – Pediatrics (2:2-0)

Study of the care of the pediatric patient and family during health and disease. Emphasis on growth and developmental needs utilizing the nursing process.

Prerequisites: VNSG 1204 Foundations of Nursing | Co-requisites: VNSG 2461 Clinical III

VNSG 1260 – Clinical–LVN Training I (2:0-6)

A health-related work-based learning experience that enables the student to apply specialized occupational theory, skills, and concepts. Direct supervision is provided by the clinical professional. $25 liability insurance fee.

Co-requisites: VNSG 1423

VNSG 1301 – Mental Health & Mental Illness (3:3-0)

Personality development, human needs, common mental mechanisms, and factors influencing mental health and mental illness. Includes common mental disorders and related therapy.

Co-requisites: VNSG 1260 Clinical I

VNSG 1330 – Maternal-Neonatal Nursing (3:3-0)

A study of the biological, psychological, and sociological concepts applicable to basic needs of the family including childbearing and neonatal care. Utilization of the nursing process in the assessment and management of the childbearing family. Topics include physiological changes related to pregnancy, fetal development, and nursing care of the family during labor and delivery and the puerperium.

Prerequisites: VNSG 1204 Foundations of Nursing | Co-requisites: VNSG 1460 Clinical II

VNSG 1423 – Basic Nursing Skills (4:3-3)

Mastery of basic nursing skills and competencies for a variety of health care settings using the nursing process as the foundation for all nursing interventions. Laboratory experiences are required. Lab fees apply.

Co-requisites: VNSG 1260 Clinical I

VNSG 1460 – Clinical–LVN Training II (4:0-12)

A health-related work-based learning experience that enables the student to apply specialized occupational theory, skills, and concepts. Direct supervision is provided by the clinical professional.

Prerequisites: VNSG 1260 Clinical I | Co-requisites: VNSG 1409 Nursing in Health & Illness

VNSG 1509 – Nursing in Health & Illness II (5:5-0)

Introduction to health problems requiring medical and surgical interventions.

Prerequisites: VNSG 1423 Basic Nursing Skills | Co-requisites: VNSG 1460 Clinical II

VNSG 2331 – Advanced Nursing Skills (3:2-3)

Application of advanced level nursing skills and competencies in a variety of health care settings utilizing the nursing process as a problem-solving tool. Laboratory experiences are required. Lab and testing fees apply.

Prerequisites: VNSG 1423 Basic Nursing Skills | Co-requisites: VNSG 1460 Clinical II

VNSG 2461 – Clinical–LVN Training III (4:0-12)

A health-related work-based learning experience that enables the student to apply specialized occupational theory, skills, and concepts. Direct supervision is provided by the clinical professional.

Prerequisites: VNSG 1460 Clinical II | Co-requisites: VNSG 2510 Nursing in Health & Illness III

VNSG 2510 – Nursing in Health and Illness III (5:5-0)

Continuation of Nursing in Health and Illness II. Further study of medical-surgical problems of the patient including concepts such as mental illness. Incorporates knowledge necessary to make the transition from student to graduate vocational nurse. Testing fees apply.

Prerequisites: VNSG 1409 Nursing in Health and Illness II | Co-requisites: VNSG 2461 Clinical III

Academic Integrity

All Â鶹AV VN students are subject to the Â鶹AV .

All assignments in this program will be individual assignments unless otherwise indicated.

The teaching team believes that cheating is not acceptable ina nursing program. Cheating and plagiarism will not be tolerated. Texas Board of Nursing, Texas Administrative Code, 217.27 Good Professional Character states:

1. Good professional character is the integrated pattern of personal, academic and occupational behaviors which, in the judgment of the Board, indicates that an individual is able to consistently conform his or her conduct to the requirements of the Nursing Practice Act, the Board's rules and regulations, and generally accepted standards of nursing practice including, but not limited to, behaviors including honesty, accountability, trustworthiness, reliability, and integrity.
2. A person who seeks to obtain or retain a license to practice professional or vocational nursing shall provide evidence of good professional character, which, in the judgment of the Board, is sufficient to ensure that the individual can consistently act in the best interest of the patients/clients and the public in any practice setting. Such evidence shall establish that the person:
   1. is able to distinguish right from wrong;
   2. is able to think and act rationally;
   3. is able to keep promises and honor obligations;
   4. is accountable for his or her own behavior.

Use of Online Resources

The use of Course Hero, Quizlet, social media, or similar study resource platforms to access, share, or distribute course materials, assignments, exams, or any other academic content is strictly prohibited.

Prohibited Activities:

1. Uploading and/or sharing any course materials, assignments, exams, or other academic content to Course Hero, Quizlet, social media, or similar platforms.
2. Downloading or using materials from these platforms for assignments, exams, or any other academic purposes.

Permitted Activities:

1. Online resources can be used legitimately as study aids when utilized responsibly, allowing students to access practice questions, flashcards, study guides, and other materials to reinforce their understanding of course concepts and prepare for exams; however, it is important to critically evaluate the information found on these platforms and ensure you are not simply copying answers without comprehending the material.
2. Using legitimate study aids and resources provided by the nursing school or recommended by faculty.

Professional Behavior

The teaching team believes that professional behavior should be maintained inall learning environments. 

Nursing students are expected to display professional, respectful behavior toward patients, peers, staff, and faculty at all times. Profane, belligerent, or aggressive language and/or actions in any program setting will be subject to disciplinary action. Reports of lateral violence or bullying, including intimidation, toward others will be investigated and subject to the Disciplinary Policy. Please refer to the Â鶹AV Student Handbook Disruptive Behavior Policy for more details.

The ANA Code of Ethics Provision 5 states: "The nurse owes the same duties to self as to others, including the responsibility to promote health and safety, preserve wholeness of character and integrity, maintain competence, and continue personal and professional growth."

Student Conduct in Learning Environments

Classroom, lab, and clinical activities are an essential part of the nursing program. Students are expected to come prepared and participate fully.

The teaching team believes that all students wish to achieve their maximum potential in the nursing program to become the best professional nurse possible. We believe students want to become highly competent professional nurses. Feedback, both positive and constructive, will be provided to the student regarding performance. We believe you want this feedback to help you achieve your goal, thus we will honor you by sharing our observations. We ask that you trust the sole purpose in sharing both positive and constructive feedback is to help you achieve your goal. This feedback is designed to assist the student in making the transition to the Vocational Nurse role. Feedback may be difficult to hear but it is provided to the student to help meet your goal of excellence.

The teaching team believes that students need to be present and actively participate in the learning activities to achieve their goals. Students are expected to be present and actively involved in classroom/lab/clinical activities. Students should refer to the Nursing Attendance policy.

The teaching team believes every student can be successful. Students need to maintain a balance between school, work, and family to achieve success. Students are encouraged to meet with faculty regarding issues and to obtain assistance with course work. If a student determines it is necessary to withdraw from a course, it is the student's responsibility to contact the Nursing Department Chair prior to initiating the withdrawal process. Failure to properly withdraw may result in a grade of "F" for the course. Withdrawal deadlines are located in the academic calendar on the Â鶹AV website.

Personal Appearance

Classroom

Casual clothing is appropriate for the classroom. Students should not wear short shorts, low-cut or cropped tops, or other revealing clothes to class. Undergarments should not be visible outside of clothing and the absence of undergarments should not be conspicuous (visible) or distracting.. Clothing with inappropriate text or design cannot be worn to classroom or clinical activities. Room temperatures vary, so layered clothing is recommended. Hats, caps, sunglasses, and any wristband (including smart watches and fitness bands) are not permitted during exams.

When required to attend clinical orientation, workshops/seminars, or other functions where uniforms are not required, appropriate casual professional wear is expected. Shorts, blue jeans, halter-type tops, cropped tops, and other revealing clothing are considered inappropriate for these occasions.

Student Uniform

The Â鶹AV student uniform includes the following:

• Scrubs: Black scrubs only. No additional colors on the uniform—no colored stripes, piping, or thread (excluding logos). The TC VN Patch must be sewn on the left sleeve with the top of the patch 2 inches down from the shoulder seam. If an optional scrub jacket is worn, it must have the TC VN Patch on the left shoulder.
• Shoes: Professional nursing shoes of a solid, non-permeable material (such as leather or vinyl). No mesh, canvas, or open holes on tops or sides. Must have closed toe and heel; no boots. Any color is acceptable; designs are allowed as long as they are not considered offensive (eg. skull & cross bones).
• Name Badge: Must be worn and visible on the upper left side of shirt/top while on campus (all areas of TC campus: classroom, Simulation Center, library, computer lab) or professional uniform in the clinical setting. Cloth badge holders and lanyards are NOT allowed. Must wear a badge extender denoting student nurse status.

Required Equipment

• Penlight
• Watch (with seconds timing)
• Stethoscope
• Bandage Scissors

Additional Uniform Guidelines

• Plain black t-shirts may be worn under the scrub top. Sleeve length must not go below mid-forearm to allow for correct handwashing and other infection control procedures.
• Cloth or jeweled lanyards or stethoscope coverings are not permitted due to infection control concerns.
• Neatness and a well-groomed appearance are expected at all times during the clinical rotation. Hair must be a natural color, pulled back from the face, and not falling below the chin when bending forward; no elaborate or decorative hair accessories are allowed; hair accessories, surgical caps, and headbands may be worn, but need to be non-distracting, and safe for patient care; neatly trimmed mustaches and beards will be acceptable as long as they don't interfere with PPE fit.
• Make-up should be appropriate for a professional clinical appearance.
• No jewelry is to be worn except for small stud earrings (no hoops or gauges) which are not to exceed two per ear, and one simple ring (no stones). No other visible body piercing jewelry is allowed. Tongue studs are considered visible. Clear plastic piercing retainers are allowed; must wear a plug for gauges.
• Nursing students have a responsibility for maintaining hand hygiene by adhering to specific infection control practices. Artificial fingernail enhancements contribute to nail changes that can increase the risk of colonization and transmission of pathogens to patients; and are therefore not allowed. Fingernails are to be be neatly manicured and of reasonable length (1/8 inch or 3.1 mm beyond fingertip). No nail polish is allowed at the clinical site. Artificial nail enhancements are not to be worn; anything applied to natural nails is considered an enhancement. This includes, but is not limited to, artificial nails, tips, wraps, appliqués, acrylics, gels, and any additional items applied to the nail surface.
• Personal hygiene should include frequent bathing as well as the use of deodorants and mouthwashes as needed. No strong odors (colognes, perfumes, smoke, etc.) are permitted.
• Along with being well groomed and clean while in uniform, the student must be constantly aware of the image he/she portrays to the public. No profanity, loud talking is permitted. No smoking is allowed when you are in uniform. No alcoholic beverages may be consumed while in uniform. Chewing gum while on clinical rotations is not allowed.
• Visible tattoos must not be considered offensive and must follow clinical agency policies.

Attendance Policy

Being successful in a nursing program is dependent on the student being actively involved in all learning activities.

Classroom

The Â鶹AV VN Program is approved by the Texas Board of Nursing as a primarily face-to-face program; attendance is essential to meet program outcomes and regulatory expectations. In-person participation supports critical thinking, clincal judgment, and application of nursing concepts that cannot be fully replicated outside the classroom.

Regular attendance and punctuality are professional expectations. Students are expected to arrive of 10–15 minutes early, remain for the entire class, and notify faculty as soon as possible if they will be absent or late.

Tardiness, leaving early, and absenteeism are unprofessional and disruptive behaviors. Two or more occurrences in a course will require a meeting with the Student Success Coach to identify barriers and develop a corrective action plan. Failure to attend this meeting or continued attendance issues may result in disciplinary action.

Clinical

The clinical experience is an essential component of the nursing program and cannot be missed. Clinical learning outcomes cannot be achieved if the student is not present, and student performance cannot be evaluated.

To remain within the Texas Board of Nursing guidelines, missed clinical experiences must be made up. Missed clinical time cannot be made up during the regular clinical schedule. Clinical makeup days will be at the end of the semester based on clinical site availability and may require an incomplete for the clinical course. Successful completion of the make-up clinical is required to resolve the incomplete and progress to the next semester in the program.

Excessive clinical absences or failure to complete the make-up clinical will result in failing the course and the need to repeat it the next semester.

Arriving Late and Leaving Early for Clinical

Arriving late to or leaving early from clinical is considered unprofessional behavior and is not acceptable. To stay aligned with the expectations set by the Texas Board of Nursing, arriving at clinical 30 minutes leate or leaving clinical 30 minutes early will be recorded as a clinical absence and will require you to attend a clinical makeup day.

Ass soon as a student knows they will be late or need to leave early from clinical, they must contact their clinical instructor to notify them. Students will be required to discuss the reasons and develop a plan to avoid this behavior in the future. Repeated instances of arriving late or leaving early will be considered unprofessional behavior and will be documented in the clinical evaluation, and the Disciplinary Action process will be initiated.

Weather

We have faculty and students from a large area drive to the campus and clinical locations. It may be extreme weather in one area and fine in another.

All students should sign up for Leopard Alert so they will be notified in the case of the college canceling or delaying class. Faculty will notify students if they need to cancel class o clinical then the student will not be counted as absent; however, the Clinical experience will need to be made up.

Testing Policy

Most tests are administered online but may be administered via paper and pencil throughout the program.

1. All books, bags, purses, drinks, as well as any cell phones and other communication devices must not be taken into the computer lab. No hats, scarves, outerwear, or gloves may be worn during testing. Smart watches or any other device able to generate electronic messaging, photographs, or recording must be removed during testing.
2. When testing online: If there are any technical issues during the test, you must immediately notify the instructor. If you wait until th end of the test then there is no recourse for assisting you.
3. If testing with a paper test: no writing on the test; desk must be cleared with the exception of pencils and four-function calculators. All other items must be placed at the front of the classroom during tests. Cover sheets must be submitted with the test.
4. The student must leave the classroom/computer lab after completing the test and not return until everyone is finished.
5. Students who arrive after testing has begun will not be allowed to test and will be required to schedule a make-up exam.

Make-Up Testing Policy

Students are expected to be present for all scheduled exams. If a situation arises that a student is unable to be present to take a scheduled exam, the student must contact the appropriate faculty member before the exam is given. Failure to contact the faculty may jeopardize the opportunity to take a make-up exam. Any missed module exams must be taken within the time frame as stated in the course outline. Failure to complete any make-up exams will result in a grade of "0" for that exam.

It is the responsibility of the student to contact the faculty member before the exam is given to notify them that the exam will be missed and to arrange to take a missed final exam. Any missed final exam must be completed prior to the beginning of the next semester in order to progress. Any final exam missed will result in the submission of an Incomplete (I) for that course. The incomplete (I) for the course will be removed once the final exam has been administered or according to Â鶹AV Policy. Failure to take a final exam will result in a grade of "0" for that exam and may result in failing the course.

Policy/Procedure for Student Review of Exams

The faculty believes that exams are not only evaluation tools but also learning tools. It is the policy of this department to give students the opportunity to review module exams and provide feedback about these exams. The student must contact faculty within 2 weeks of the exam to schedule this review. The following guidelines will be used:

1. Grades for each exam will be available immediately for online tests.
2. Students who do not achieve a passing score (75%) on an exam are highly recommended to schedule a one-on-one exam review with the faculty who gave the exam.
3. During the session, students will have the opportunity to visually review the exam and ask questions about exam items. No note-taking will be permitted during the review session. Before leaving the review session, any material containing exam questions or content will be collected.
4. Makeup exams and last exams of the semester may not be available for review, depending on available time. Final exams generally are not reviewed; faculty may make special arrangements as available, with individuals.

Dosage Calculation Exam

Students in the Vocational Nursing Program are expected to have proficiency in dosage calculation throughout the curriculum. Students are required to pass a Dosage Calculation Exam each semester with a minimum score of 75%. The exam score will count as a percentage of the clinical course grade. Students who score below 75% will be required to complete remediation and retake the exam.

Use of Electronic Technology

All nursing courses are supplemented with online material through D2L Brightspace. Students are required to have access to a laptop computer. A link for discounted Dell computers may be found in the New Student Orientation course.

While the Nursing Department recognizes the convenience and sense of security provided by access to and use of cell phones, headphones, and ear pods, it also acknowledges that personal use has no place in the context of classrooms, laboratories, and testing in the Nursing Education Center due to the inevitable distraction they produce. They must be turned to silent during on-campus learning activities. There should be no texting during on-campus learning activities.

Computers, tablets, etc. may be used only for classroom activities. Permission to record lectures must be obtained from each instructor. Use of cell phones or personal computers in the clinical setting is described in the Clinical Guidelines for Students policy.

Social Media

Professionalism is expected at all times, including on social media. Students should not post any information regarding clinical, lab, or any confidential information and are expected to follow the Texas Board of Nursing Position Statement 15.29, Use of Soial Media by Nurses, which can be found at:

Violations should be reported to the clinical instructor or the Department Chair, Nursing. Implications for violations of clinical agency policies will be considered. Clinical facilities may bar students from clinical practice for violations. This will result in dismissal from the program. Future employment opportunities can be seriously jeopardized by nonprofessional behavior in this area.

Medication Administration Policy

Medication Administration Requirements

Students may administer medication after successfully completing the dosage calculation exam and passing medication administration skills in the Simulation Lab. Students unable to discuss medications comprehensively will not be allowed to administer medications in the clinical setting. Students that are not able to administer medications competently will be sent tothe Simulation Lab for remediation.

Administration Rules

1. Students may give medications to the patients they are caring for, provided clinical faculty (or preceptor in 3rd semester) supervise all dosage calculations, preparation, administration, patient education, and documentation of medications.
2. No medications will be administered by students without faculty supervision and approval.
3. Prior to administering medications, the student must be aware of site-specific policies and procedures, i.e. Pyxis, med cart, medication records, etc..
4. No student may accept or initiate telephone or verbal orders, including for medication administration.

Preparation

1. Students will be required to discuss medication information with the faculty or preceptor (3rd semester) prior to beginning medication preparation or administration. Conversations must be limited when anyone (student or staff nurse) is preparing or administering medications to avoid potential errors.
2. Nursing students will be able to retrieve, prepare, and administer medications under the direct supervision of their clinical faculty (or preceptor in 3rd semester). Student competency is determined by clinical faculty.

Administration

1. The nursing student is responsible for administering only those medications which they have prepared to give according to the school and agency guidelines.
2. Nursing students are not permitted to administer the following:
   1. Medications that require an override in the electronic medication administration record.
   2. Chemotherapy medications.
   3. Epidural medications.
   4. Moderate sedation medications.
   5. Oxytocin for laboring patients.
   6. PCA medications.
   7. Opioids.
   8. Other medications as indicated by the clinical site facility or the faculty.
   9. Blood or blood products.

Documentation

The student will document the administration of the medication on the administration chart, which includes the dose, route, time, and any additional information per facility policy. The student must sign the documentation according to facility policy.

After successfully passing the medication administration skills and with faculty supervision, VN students are allowed to administer medications via the following routes: topical, oral, eye, ear, nose, per gastric tube (NGT, gastrostomy), rectal, IM, SC, intradermal, inhalation medications, and IVPB medications according to the IV Therapy Policy.

IV Therapy Policy

Â鶹AV Vocational Nursing students will observe the following policy for managing patients with intravenous (IV) therapy in progress while under students' care:

1. The instructor must supervise students when starting an IV and managing any aspect of IV therapy on their assigned patients.
2. Students must be approved by the instructor prior to removing a peripheral IV site.
3. Students may perform or assist in the changing of peripheral IV dressings in the presence of either the instructor or the staff nurse.
4. IV therapy will be limited to peripheral sites only, including tubing, dressing changes, and venipunctures.
5. Medication administration will be limited to plain IV solutions, pre-mixed IV piggyback solutions, and IV piggyback antibiotics.
6. Students may regulate peripheral IV infusions.
7. Students may maintain saline locks from previously inserted venipuncture devices, including flushing of site.
8. IV push medications will not be administered.
9. Each health care facility's policy for administering IV medications and managing IV therapy will be observed by the student and instructor. Students and instructors are responsible for knowledge of the particular facility policy.
10. Regarding peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) and Central lines: IV Piggy Backs can be hung by a student with instructor supervision if this is considered within the LVN scope of practice at a specific facility.

Change in Health Condition

If a student has any significant change in health or a health condition that may affect or be affected by school performance, he/she will be required to obtain a Health Care Provider (to include physicians, nurse practitioners and physician's assistants) release. The release must specify that the student is able to return to classroom and clinical activities without restrictions. Examples of these conditions include, but are not limited to, infectious diseases, physical injuries, and after childbirth. This request may be made at the discretion of the instructor or Department Chair, Nursing. In some cases, clinical agencies may be consulted regarding restrictions placed on students who provide direct patient care, especially related to providing for patient safety.

Infectious Diseases

Title IX Pregnancy Policy

Â鶹AV does not discriminate against any student based on pregnancy or related conditions. Absences due to medical conditions relating to pregnancy will be excused for as long as deemed medically necessary by a student's doctor, and students will be given the opportunity to make up missed work.

Students who are requesting services related to pregnancy must disclose their need to their respective instructor and submit a signed diagnostic statement to the Â鶹AV Title IX Deputy Coordinator for Pregnancy Services prior to or immediately upon learning of medical need. See the TASB Board Policy Manual for more information.

Title IX Deputy Coordinator for Pregnancy Services:

• Misty Reid
• Phone: (254) 298-8335
• Email: Misty.Reid@templecollege.edu

If you are approved for Title IX services, and you anticipate missing clinical rotations during the semester: 

• Reach out to the Clinical Coordinator: Erica.Perrine@templecollege.edu to determine if clinical rotations need to be adjusted to meet the minimum requirements for the Board of Nursing attendance.
• Contact your faculty to make up any missed classwork.

Students that are qualified for Title IX services must present a note from their physician for any Title IX-related absences. You may email the note to the Nursing Department Chair, Tracey.Cooper@templecollege.edu, or bring it to the nursing office.

Post-delivery, prior to attending a clinical experience, students are required to present a medical clearance from their provider stating they may return to clinical with no restrictions.

Infection Control Policy

During the performance of clinical laboratory duties, nursing students shall comply with standard precautions for preventing the spread of infection to clients, themselves, and others. The following measures shall be employed:

1. Hands should always be washed before and after contact with patients, and after removing gloves. If hands are exposed to blood, body fluid, human tissue, or contaminated surfaces, they should be washed immediately with soap and water.
2. Gloves should be worn when contact with blood, body fluid, tissues, or contaminated surfaces is anticipated.
3. Gowns or plastic aprons are indicated if spattering with blood or other potentially infectious materials is likely.
4. Masks and goggles should be worn if aerosolization or splattering is likely to occur, such as in certain oral and surgical procedures, wound irrigations, suctioning, and bronchoscopy.
5. Sharp objects should be handled in such a manner to prevent accidental cuts or punctures. Used needles should not be bent, broken, reinserted into their original sheath, or unnecessarily handled. They should be discarded intact immediately after use into an impervious needle-disposal box.
6. Blood spills should be cleaned up promptly according to agency policy.
7. Blood specimens should be considered biohazardous and be so labeled.
8. At the start of each new clinical rotation, students need to locate emergency equipment.

Student Substance Abuse Prevention Policy

Â鶹AV is committed to a policy of prevention of the use of any controlled substance by students while they are engaged in College and College-sponsored activities.

Alcohol and Drugs

The possession, use, distribution, or sale of alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs or controlled substances (Art. 4476-15 or U.S.C.S 812), except on a bona fide prescription, on the campus or at any college activity is cause for disciplinary action. This is also true of a student who comes on campus or to a college activity while under the influence of any of these items. Violations will result in disciplinary action, up to and including suspension, and/or criminal prosecution

Expectations of Student Performance

All students at Â鶹AV are expected to conform to this policy, and to refrain from any substance abuse. Refer to the section of the catalog for further information about Â鶹AV Policy.

1. Students are not to use, possess, sell, or transfer any alcoholic beverage or any illegal, illicit, or designer drugs on campus or while engaged in any college instructional program.
2. Because students in nursing and allied health programs are preparing themselves for a career in health care, this student substance abuse prevention policy carries special importance:
   1. Health care providers are expected to know the major differences between reasonable practices related to personal health care and practices which are detrimental to personal health care;
   2. Health care providers have an obligation to present themselves at a work site prepared to undertake their respective assignments. As such, they have an obligation to not use any substance prior to arrival at the work site, or while at the work site, which may impair their job performance.
3. Given the importance to Â鶹AV that its students in nursing programs conduct themselves as future health care providers, the College mandates that those students certify in writing that they are not engaging in any substance abuse behaviors. Further, their signature will acknowledge that in "for cause" situations they will be asked to submit to drug testing when their performance, conduct, or other actions indicate possible substance abuse. Note: "for cause" means indicators of impaired behavior such as erratic movement; dilated eyes; slurred speech pattern; loud, abusive, or uncharacteristic speaking; or the presence of an alcohol or marijuana odor.
4. The refusal of a nursing student to sign the accompanying acknowledgment will result in the said student being denied enrollment in any Â鶹AV's nursing programs. Refusal to submit to "for cause" drug testing may lead to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal from the Â鶹AV program. Should the student be dismissed from the program, the student will have access to the College's appeals process.
5. In "for cause" situations, testing will be conducted at a state-certified drug testing facility, and results will be reported to the Nursing Department Chair. Note: any sample taken for conducting a drug test will remain in the custody of the facility, which accepts the responsibility of undertaking the test. Results reported to the Nursing Department Chair will be discussed with the student. Positive results will be reported to the Vice President of Academic Affairs and Student Services. All positive test results are also reported to the Texas BON per mandatory reporting requirements. A student who tests positive may be denied continued access to Â鶹AV education opportunities. Such action will only be taken after the student is provided an opportunity to appeal the decision. Should such a student enter a professionally directed rehabilitation program, Â鶹AV will consider reinstatement of the student upon receipt of proof that the student successfully completed that program.

Accident and/or Incident Reports

The school holds no liability for accidents that occur to students during scheduled school hours.

In the event of unusual occurrences involving a student, employee of the clinical facility, and/or patient, an institutional incident/accident report should be completed. The student will notify the instructor immediately of any unusual occurrences. Examples of these include such incidents as a medication error, patient injury witnessed by the student, and/or student injury.

In the event that a student is injured on clinical and requires medical treatment, the Medical Treatment Policy will be implemented.

Medical Treatment Policy

Due to non-coverage of immediate medical care by the clinical site, a Medical Treatment Policy has been developed. This is to be instituted with options for the student in the event of a clinical incident requiring medical treatment:

• Option 1: The clinical instructor will strongly encourage the student to seek immediate care. The option of immediate care at the clinical site should be presented with the understanding by the student that he/she will assume all costs for the treatment. 
• Option 2: The student may alos elect to seek his/her own private medical care elsewhere and assume all costs of the treatment. Neither the clinical facility or Â鶹AV will assume responsibility for any costs associated with treatment.
• Option 3: A final option will be decline of total medical treatment.