BSN-Professional and Accelerated Second Degree

Purdue University Northwest Mission:

Purdue University Northwest transforms students’ lives and our metropolitan region through a diverse campus committed to innovative education, applied research, and community engagement.

Purdue University Northwest College of Nursing Mission:

The PNW College of Nursing’s mission, vision, values, and strategic themes reflect those of Purdue University Northwest. Across all its programs, the College of Nursing aims to transform diverse students to become lifelong learners impacting our metropolitan region through an inclusive college committed to affordable and innovative education, evidence-based practice, applied research, and community engagement.

Purdue University Northwest Vision:

As a premier metropolitan university, Purdue University Northwest (PNW) will power intellectual, cultural, and economic development in northwest Indiana and the greater Chicago metropolitan area, enriching the surrounding community through collaborative partnerships that leverage the university’s expertise to improve people’s lives.

PNW will continue to focus on preparing students to be effective, ethical, and innovative leaders in their careers and communities through enhanced academic programming and integrative, experiential learning.

PNW will support a diverse, talented faculty as they tailor their research and teaching to address the needs of a changing economy and workforce.

PNW’s vibrant student experience, robust campus resources, and engaged alumni community will enhance students’ abilities to form lasting connections with each other and the university.

Purdue University Northwest College of Nursing Vision:

As part of a premier metropolitan university, Purdue University Northwest College of Nursing will power intellectual, cultural, and economic healthcare development in northwest Indiana and the greater Chicago metropolitan area, enriching the surrounding community through collaborative partnerships that leverage the college’s nursing and health care expertise to improve health care delivery and the health of populations.

The CON will prepare diverse nursing students to be effective, ethical, and innovative leaders in nursing, health care, and communities through enhanced academic programming, comprehensive practicum experiences, and integrative, experiential learning.

The CON will support a diverse, talented faculty as they tailor their research, teaching, and service to address the needs of a changing economy and healthcare workforce.

The CON’s vibrant student experience, robust campus resources, and engaged alumni community will enhance students’ abilities to form lasting connections with each other, the college, and the university.

Conceptual Framework and Threads

Person:

Persons are viewed as developing across the life span and are holistic, dynamic, complex and autonomous. As citizens of the world and members of a larger network of families, groups and communities, individuals strive to meet their basic human needs. Individuals are in constant interaction with other open systems and interpret the world according to their own contextual reality. In doing so, persons create their own subjective meanings about health, illness and well-being. As a result, they have the right to fully participate in health care decisions that affect their quality of life.

Environment:

Environment is the arena for life span development and provides the conditions for persons to grow, change and meet (or not meet) their basic human needs. Additionally, the environment exerts social, cultural, political and religious norms that influence the behavior of individuals, families, groups and communities. Reciprocally, individuals, families, groups and communities influence the nature of the environment.

Nursing:

Central to the practice of professional nursing is respect for the autonomy and dignity of all individuals without regard to gender, ethnicity, religion or class. The values of the profession are rooted in a caring philosophy and encompass ethical standards, a commitment to advocacy and social justice, scientific theory, intuitive ways of knowing, aesthetic ways of knowing and tradition.

The context of nursing is health promotion, health maintenance, health restoration and palliation. The practice of nursing should be person-centered and exert significant influence on the safety, health and welfare of individuals, families, groups and communities. This is accomplished by utilizing the nursing process and critical thinking to provide holistic interventions based on a unique body of knowledge that assists individuals to meet their physiological, safety and security, self-esteem, love and belonging, and self-actualization needs and by promoting the health and welfare of families, groups and communities. The process by which this is achieved is through the implementation of an evidence-based practice model that utilizes the best available international evidence, clinical expertise, and patient preference, within the context of available resources.

Professional nurses are educated to employ expert communication skills in order to influence health policy, provide professional leadership in resource management, utilize information technology effectively, and to motivate and supervise others. Through a process of collaboration with the interprofessional team nurses maintain standards of care, focus on professional team improvement, act as a change agent, implement evidence-based models for practice, and influence the profession through political awareness and activity.

Health:

Health is a subjective state, rooted in experiences, values, and beliefs and is culturally defined and practiced. Health is reflected in a person’s ability to pursue their goals and desires, meet their basic human needs and achieve quality of life as defined by the person.

Teaching-Learning Process:

The faculty believe that teaching-learning is a dynamic, mutual, constantly evolving process that provides the opportunity to both inspire and empower nursing students. Through this process, nursing students are inspired to value change through the role modeling of faculty and empowered through didactic and clinical instruction to create their visions regarding the role of the nurse. More notably, through the critical thinking process students should be empowered to challenge traditional nursing practices that are void of research or evidence-based support. Further, the teaching-learning process is viewed as the linking of nursing faculty expertise with evidence-based teaching strategies that enhance student learning, promote effective communication and cultivate a value for lifelong learning. Accountability of the educational process is demonstrated by evaluation of student learning outcomes.

Conceptual Threads of the College of Nursing:

H= Horizontal thread: provide the elements of the framework that are foundational and gain breadth as students progress throughout the curriculum while being exposed to various experiences.

• Communication (H): The activity of conveying information therapeutically and effectively with all stakeholders of the healthcare team.
• Person-Centered Care (H): Holistic care that encompasses individuals, families and communities with respect for the uniqueness and complexity of all as open systems. It includes science theory, advocacy, caring, ethical standards and attention to social, cultural, racial, political, and religious diversity.
• Basic Human Needs (H): A hierarchy of human needs that includes physiologic needs, safety and security needs, love and belonging needs, self-esteem needs and self-actualization needs.
• Nursing Process (H): An organized method of planning and delivering care that is composed of five steps: assessment, diagnosis, outcome identification, implementation and evaluation.
• Evidence-Based Nursing Practice (H): A practice model that utilizes the best available international evidence, clinical expertise, and patient preference within the context of available resources.
• Professional Values (H): Application of legal and ethical standards that guide the profession of nursing to include accountability for practice and principles of altruism, autonomy, human dignity, integrity, social justice, and ethics.
• Critical Thinking (H): The process of conceptualizing, analyzing, synthesizing and evaluating information that facilitates a healthy skepticism and results in a willingness to act on new information.

V=Vertical Thread: consists of those concepts, which progress from the simple to the complex as students gain increasing sophistication in their understanding of professional nursing. Helps students gain breadth and depth.

• Professional Leadership (V): The ability to manage resources, influence, motivate and supervise others, collaborate with an inter-professional team, maintain standards in the provision of care, focus on quality improvement, act as a leader, change agent and educator in order to implement evidence-based models of practice in a fiscally responsible way.
• Quality and Safety (V): Knowledge and skills to minimize risk and to improve structure processes and outcomes.
• Health Care informatics (V): The use of information and technology to communicate, manage knowledge, gather data, mitigate error, and support decision-making.
• Health Policy (V): Decisions, plans, and actions, that are undertaken to achieve specific healthcare goals in a society.
• Collaboration (V): The process whereby nurses work jointly and cooperatively with patients, families, groups, and intra-professional and inter-professional teams for the purpose of improving quality healthcare.
• Levels of Prevention (V): Providing primary, secondary and tertiary nursing care to individuals, families, groups and communities in the context of health promotion, screenings, restoration, maintenance, and palliation.
• Life Span Development (V): A dynamic process that occurs from conception to death in which there is an orderly pattern of growth and change affecting structure, cognition, socio-emotional, moral and spiritual dimensions.

Nursing Standards:

The faculty developed the curriculum, student learning outcomes/program objectives and program outcomes based on the following standards and guidelines: Indiana Nurse Practice Act, the American Nurses Association (ANA) Nursing Scope and Standards of Practice (2015), the ANA Social Policy Statement (2010), the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) (2017), Healthy People 2020, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) report on Health Professions Education (2003), the IOM report on the Future of Nursing (2011), the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Essentials of Baccalaureate Education (2008) and the Quality and Safety Education for Nurses (QSEN) Competencies (2007).

End of Program Student Learning Outcomes of Undergraduate Degree Nursing Program Options

1. Utilize the nursing process to implement principles of person-centered care within the framework of basic human needs and life span development.
2. Demonstrate effective communication while collaborating therapeutically and effectively with healthcare system stakeholders.
3. Demonstrate professional leadership in the coordination of healthcare that minimizes risk, promotes safety, and manages resources by creating a culture of continuous quality improvement.
4. Implement the principles of evidence-based nursing practice in policy development and the provision of person-centered care in an evolving healthcare environment.
5. Utilize information technology to coordinate and support decision-making in the provision of person-centered care.
6. Implement critical thinking strategies in the context of health promotion, health maintenance, health restoration and palliation to maximize optimal person-centered health outcomes.
7. Exemplify professional values to include accountability for practice and principles of altruism, autonomy, human dignity, integrity, social justice and ethics.

Admission Requirements

An applicant must be officially accepted by Purdue University Northwest before his or her application can be considered for admission to the College of Nursing. Admission to the University does not guarantee admission to the College of Nursing.

Admission to the College of Nursing

Fall and Spring admission to the undergraduate Professional Option in Nursing are offered at both the Hammond and Westville campuses. Applicants interested in Fall admission at both campuses must apply by February 1. Applicants interested in Spring admission must apply by October 1. Second Degree Accelerated student applications are only accepted for Fall admissions. This is a limited enrollment program and admission is competitive.

Admission criteria for the Nursing Baccalaureate programs:

• Baccalaureate Degree Professional Option: Beginning Students Who Have Not Attended College
• Baccalaureate Degree Professional Option: Change of Degree or Transfer Students
• Accelerated Second Degree Baccalaureate Option: Change of Degree or Transfer Students
• Online RN to BSN Completion Program

Criminal History Background Check

In order to maintain compliance with state/federal laws and/or agency regulations for individuals working with patients, a criminal history background check is required upon admission and may need to be updated per agency requirements.

Students admitted to the College of Nursing in the Spring of 2018 and forward must submit criminal background check results by July 1st each calendar year. Students admitted prior to Spring 2018 will continue to submit an annual criminal background check each year on the anniversary date of their first background check. For all nursing students, if there is any change in status regarding criminal history, a new criminal background check must be submitted and the College of Nursing notified immediately.

Students who have been charged for violation(s) of law may not be eligible for clinical placement in the practicum setting, thus interrupting or preventing progression in the nursing program until such time that their legal issues are resolved.

In addition, the Indiana State Board of Nursing will ask those applying for professional licensure to provide a Criminal Background check and may ask for an explanation of results prior to being granted the right to complete the NCLEX licensure exam. The criminal history background report is valid for a period of one year from the date of issuance. This report must be updated annually by the student, at the expense of the student, by yearly due date.

Beginning Students

(students who have not attended any college/university)

Purdue University Northwest College of Nursing offers a four-year (120 credit hour) nursing program for students who have no previous college credit. The program prepares a nurse generalist with baccalaureate level nursing competencies who will be able to provide comprehensive, safe, nursing care for people from birth to death within a variety of healthcare settings. This degree academically prepares students who wish to pursue advanced degrees in nursing.

Admission Requirements:

All applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Placement scores (Test Optional Spring/Fall 2022) 
  • rSAT scores 1080 or higher (combination of math and reading score) OR
  • ACT scores composite 22 or higher (combination of English, math, reading and science scores)
  • Superscores for like exams accepted
• Current High School transcript
  • High School GPA minimum 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
  • Five Subject GPA 3.0 or higher (English, Foreign Language, History, Math, Lab Sciences & Social Science)
• Applicant with a GED must complete 9 hours of University credit OR must meet the SAT/ACT criteria as listed above.
• Meets following high-school subject matter:

NOTE: Simply meeting the above requirements does not guarantee admission to the Nursing Program. All applicants to Nursing are reviewed and the best qualified are admitted. Enrollment is limited. Applicants who do not meet the Nursing admission requirements but do meet general university requirements will be admitted to Exploratory Advising.

Beginning Student Application Process:

Students entering college for the first time must first apply and be accepted to Purdue University Northwest. The Application form is available online. There is an option to apply to the four-year baccalaureate nursing program. All applications and required documents must be submitted by February 1 for Fall applicants or October 1 for Spring applicants. Requests for admission will be submitted to the Undergraduate Admission, Progression, and Graduation Committee. Students will be notified of the Committee’s decision at the end of March for Fall admits or the end of October for Spring admits.

Beginning High School applicants have an application date of February 1 at both campuses but we allow rolling admission until June 1st. If seats are available after the February 1 deadline the College of Nursing will continue to accept High School applications until June 1st until all High School spots are filled. Students who meet all of the admission criteria will be considered for any openings on a first-come/first-served basis. The application date will be considered when students have all application requirements met. Once capacity is reached we will add qualified names to a waitlist until June 1.

FLASH: Admission Requirements Change!!

Purdue University Northwest offers a four-year (120 credit hours) nursing program for students who have previous college credits and wish to transfer into the College of Nursing. The program prepares a nurse generalist with baccalaureate-level nursing competencies who will be able to provide comprehensive, safe, nursing care for people from birth to death within a variety of healthcare settings. It also academically prepares students to wish to pursue advanced degrees in nursing. Applications are accepted at both the Hammond and Westville campuses by February 1 for Fall admission and by October 1 for Spring admission.

Admission Requirements:

All Change of Degree and Transfer applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Minimum 3.0/4.0 cumulative grade point average in all core courses as listed below. Grades from repeated core courses will replace previous core course grades.
• Students are eligible to apply to the 4 year Baccalaureate Program when they have successfully completed or are currently enrolled in a minimum of two (2) non-science core courses (from ENGL 10000/10400, ENGL 10500, PSY 12000) and a minimum of two (2) science core courses (from: CHM 11900/11500, BIOL 21300, BIOL 21400, BIOL 22100). A minimum 3.0 grade point average is required in the top 2 Science/top 2 Non-Science courses.

* Or courses deemed equivalent

• All required courses must have a grade of 2.0 (C) or better. The cumulative GPA in the core classes must be a minimum of 3.0.
• Laboratory science courses need to have been completed within five (5) years of an application to the College of Nursing. Special consideration may be given to applicants working in a science or medically related field.
• Applicants transferring from or who have previously attended another nursing program must submit a letter of good standing from the Dean or designee of their previous nursing program.
• Change of degree and transfer students who have not completed but are currently enrolled in their required pre-requisite courses (two sciences/two non-sciences from the Core) may submit a nursing application. Priority will be given to students who apply and meet the admission requirements by the application date. Acceptance into the program will be contingent on those semester grades, meeting admission requirements, and the availability of spots. Once capacity is reached, no further applications will be accepted until the next application deadline.
• NOTE: Simply meeting the above requirements does not guarantee admission to the Nursing Program. All applicants to Nursing are reviewed and the best qualified are admitted. Enrollment is limited.

Application Process

Change of Degree Objective (CODO) Option:

The application for current PNW students who wish to change their degree options is available online. All applications and required documents must be submitted by February 1 for Fall admission or October 1 for Spring admission. Requests for admission will be submitted to the Undergraduate Admission, Progression, and Graduation Committee. Students will be notified of the Committee’s decision at the end of March for Fall admits or the end of October for Spring admits.

Apply Now: Change of Degree Application

Transfer Student Option:

Students transferring from another college or university must first apply and be accepted to Purdue University Northwest. The Application form is available online. There is an option to apply to the four-year baccalaureate nursing program. All applications and required documents must be submitted by February 1 for Fall admission or October 1 for Spring admission. Requests for admission will be submitted to the Undergraduate Admission, Progression, and Graduation Committee. Students will be notified of the Committee’s decision at the end of March for Fall admits or the end of October for Spring admits.

Transfer of Nursing Credit from Outside PNW CON

• Applicants must meet PNW CON admission requirements before nursing transfer credits will be reviewed.
• For nursing credits to be considered for transfer from the previous nursing program, courses must fulfill curriculum requirements and must have been taken at a university that is a nationally accredited nursing program. Additionally, a grade of the equivalent of 3.0 (on a 4-point scale) or higher must be present for any transfer course. Courses submitted for consideration will be evaluated for equivalency and transferability. Applicants will need to submit the syllabi for all courses to be considered for transfer credit by the application deadline date. Syllabi will be reviewed by PNW CON faculty familiar with course content. A minimum of 75% must be congruent with current PNW CON courses.
• Nursing courses from a previous program need to have been completed within two academic years of application to this nursing program.
• According to Purdue University Northwest policy, at least 32 credit hours must be taken at PNW to receive a PNW degree.
  • XABA NUR credits is 65-32= NO MORE THAN 33 credit hours can transfer in
  • Professional NUR credits are 77-32= NO MORE THAN 45 credit hours can transfer in
• Transfer petitions for the following courses will not be reviewed: NUR 49800 Capstone in Nursing, NUR 48702 Transitions into Professional Nursing, NUR 49301 Adult Health III, NUR 39201 Adult Health II, NUR 36102 Pediatric Nursing, NUR 31702 Nursing Care of Women, NUR 28600 Mental Health Nursing, and NUR 28201 Adult Health I (32 credit hours).

FLASH: Admission Requirements Change!!

Purdue University Northwest College of Nursing offers an accelerated program for non-nurses who possess a minimum of a baccalaureate degree in another discipline. This intense and innovative program is designed specifically for full time, academically talented students, who are mature critical thinkers and motivated to earn a BSN degree in nursing in a shortened time frame.

Admission Requirements:

All applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Baccalaureate degree in any major from an accredited institution completed by semester prior to the application deadline.
• Have a cumulative minimum grade point average of 3.0 from a prior baccalaureate.
• Have a minimum grade of “C” or better in all prerequisite courses.
• CORE (2 top sciences) GPA minimum of 3.0 completed by the semester of the application deadline and no older than five years old.
• Accelerated 2nd Degree BSN applicants who are currently enrolled in their required pre-requisite courses (two sciences) may submit a nursing application. Priority will be given to students who apply and meet the admission requirements by the application date. Acceptance into the program will be contingent on those semester grades, meeting admission requirements, and the availability of spots. Once capacity is reached, no further applications will be accepted until the next application deadline.
• Applicants transferring from or who have previously attended another nursing program must submit a letter of good standing from the Dean or designee of their previous nursing program
• Summer courses are only available at the Hammond campus.
• Students accepted into the program will be asked to take a test for the essentials of safe medication administration. If they do not pass the test, they will be asked to complete NUR 27400, a 2 CR HR class, the summer before they start nursing.

Admission Prerequisites:

*Lab Sciences (Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology) may not be older than 5 years.

All applications and documents must be submitted by February 1 for Fall admission at either the Westville or Hammond campus.

Purdue University Northwest will accept credits from other regionally accredited institutions. It is not required that potential applicants complete pre-requisites for the Accelerated Second Degree nursing program at Purdue University Northwest.

Applicants who choose to fulfill their pre-requisite requirements at Purdue University Northwest can refer to the following list of approved classes that may satisfy pre-requisites for the Accelerated Second Degree Nursing Program.

Please contact the College of Nursing at (219) 989-2814 or email Therese Johnson, the academic advisor for the Hammond Accelerated Second Degree program and Ericka Taylor-Joseph, at (219) 785-5439, at the Westville Campus

Approved Classes

NOTE: Simply meeting the listed requirements does not guarantee admission to the Nursing Program. All applicants to Nursing are reviewed and the best qualified are admitted. Enrollment is limited.

Current PNW CON Nursing Students

Current PNW CON Baccalaureate Degree: Professional Option students who wish to transfer into the Second Degree Accelerated Program must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Students must meet all admission requirements for the Accelerated Second Degree program
• Prior bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
• If the previous degree GPA is less than 3.0, consider the current UG GPA
• Students must have completed either 4 semesters in the Traditional Baccalaureate Degree Program and/or NUR 19201.
• Students must earn a GPA of 3.5 or higher for all NUR courses taken to the point of petition.
• Any current or previous healthcare experience will be considered.

Application Process

Change of Degree Objective (CODO) Option:

The application for current PNW students who wish to change their degree options is available online. All applications and required documents must be submitted by February 1. Requests for admission will be submitted to the Undergraduate Admission, Progression, and Graduation Committee. Students will be notified of the Committee’s decision at the end of March.

Apply Now: Change of Degree Application

Transfer Student Option:

Students transferring from another college or university must first apply and be accepted to Purdue University Northwest. The application form is available online. There is an option in the application to apply for the accelerated second degree nursing program. All applications and required documents must be submitted by February 1. Requests for admission will be submitted to the Undergraduate Admission, Progression, and Graduation Committee. Students will be notified of the Committee’s decision at the end of March.

If you are currently a licensed LPN and wish to apply to the four year Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing, please review the admission process for the Baccalaureate Degree: Change of Degree or Transfer Students.

Students who have been admitted to the College of Nursing and who hold an active LPN license are eligible to establish credit by exam for Foundational Nursing (5 credit hours) and Pharmacology (5 credit hours) courses for a total of 10 credit hours by exam. Failure to achieve a score of greater than or equal to 900 on the exam will result in ineligibility for advanced placement in the program. Credit can also be established by taking the courses instead of the HESI exams.

Students who have successfully completed the HESI exams will be registered in the appropriate courses in the Four Year Plan of Study. If the HESI exams are not passed, the student will be required to take Foundational and/or Pharmacology courses.

The HESI Exam is scheduled twice yearly on the first Friday in October and March. The HESI exam can only be taken once. No makeup exams will be offered. Registration and payment for the HESI exams must be completed by the last business day in August for the October exam and the last business day in January for the March exam.

Students who have successfully completed the Foundations HESI exam are eligible to establish credit by exam for NUR 18800 through a written and practice challenge exam. The written portion of the Challenge Exam will be administrated on the first Friday in November and the first Friday in April. The practical challenge exam will be individually scheduled after the successful completion of the written component of the exam.

LPNs students who successfully pass the entrance HESI exam are required to purchase a testing package upon registration for NUR 28201. This package includes testing and case studies for the remainder of your program. LPNs who are not successful on the entrance HESI exam and admitted to the program have testing fees that are attached to the NUR 18800.

For students admitted Fall 2018 and After

Semester 1

Semester 2

Semester 3

Semester 4

Semester 5

Semester 6

Semester 7

Semester 8

For students admitted Fall 2018 and After

Semester 1

Semester 2

Semester 3

Semester 4

The following is a checklist of minimum computer hardware/software requirements and basic computing skills that are necessary for all students.

Hardware

• 4 GB of RAM
• Windows 10 or higher operating system for a PC
• OSX 10.13 or higher for a MAC
• At least one USB port
• Wi-Fi capability
• High-speed internet connection (preferred)
• 250 GB or larger of storage (either internal, external or cloud)

*Chromebooks/iPads are not recommended as students may experience software incompatibility issues.

 Software

• Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Powerpoint)
• Anti-Virus software
• Mozilla Firefox – for either PC or Mac
• Google Chrome – for either PC or Mac
• Adobe Acrobat Reader

*PNW students may be eligible for discounted software. More details are available at the Customer Service Center.

Required Computer Skills

• Keyboard and use a mouse
• Basic windows functions (maximize, minimize, move windows)
• Word processing
• Create text
• Cut, copy, paste
• Manipulate fonts
• Name, rename and save files to a variety of storage devices
• Create tables
• Insert an object
• Create a PowerPoint presentation
• Create directories/folders, manage files
• Attach files, send e-mail
• Use “help”
• Access the Internet
• Search the Internet
• Identify the type of Internet source
• Download a file/application
• Install a downloaded application

*Computer support can be found at the Office of Instructional Technology.

The effective date of admission to the Undergraduate Nursing Program is Semester 1 in which any course of a NUR designation is taken.

Applicants who have been admitted to the College of Nursing will be required to meet all clinical requirements. These requirements are listed in detail in the Health Documents and Activities Required for Clinical Eligibility section of this handbook. In addition, students must meet agency requirements as they are mandated.

In order to maintain compliance with state/federal laws and/or agency regulations for individuals working with patients, a criminal history background check is required upon admission and may need to be updated per agency requirements. Students admitted to the College of Nursing in the Spring of 2018 and forward must submit criminal background check results by July 1 of each calendar year. Students admitted prior to Spring 2018 will continue to submit an annual criminal background check each year on the anniversary date of their first background check. For all nursing students, if there is any change in status regarding criminal history, a new criminal background check must be submitted, and the College of Nursing must be notified immediately.

Students who have been charged for violation(s) of law may not be eligible for clinical placement in the practicum setting, thus interrupting or preventing progression in the nursing program until such time that their legal issues are resolved. In addition, the Indiana State Board of Nursing will ask those applying for professional licensure to provide a Criminal Background check and may ask for an explanation of results prior to being granted the right to complete the NCLEX licensure exam. The criminal history background report is valid for a period of one year from the date of issuance. This report must be updated annually by the student, at the expense of the student, by yearly due date.

Purdue University Northwest’s College of Nursing adheres to the Americans with Disabilities Act. It is the responsibility of students with disabilities to inform the PNW Accessibility Center of their special needs so that reasonable accommodations may be provided.

Students who currently are or are planning on becoming pregnant can receive support and guidance by contacting the Office of the Dean of Students. The Office of the Dean of Students will work with you to develop a plan of success. Contact them via https://www.pnw.edu/dean-of-students/

Pregnancy is a condition for which there are specific risks and other health concerns in connection with your clinical nursing requirements. Risks specific to you should be discussed with your healthcare provider. Please note: Due to hospital policies that govern the safety of patients, guests, and employees, the College of Nursing is required to follow the regulations of the clinical site. For more information see U.S. Department of Education Resource Title IX Pregnant or Parenting.

The faculty reserve the right to administratively withdraw any student whose conduct violates the ANA Code of Ethics, or who’s health status or clinical judgment violates the Essential Abilities Standards Policy. In this event, students may submit a petition the Undergraduate Admissions, Progression, and Graduation Committee for re-admission upon change of circumstance.

The College of Nursing adheres to the “Student Bill of Rights” and the “Code of Conduct” as set forth in the Purdue University Northwest Student Handbook.

CDC/ISDH COVID Recommendations

Individual IS a known close contact to a COVID-19 case:

*Continued symptom monitoring and masking is recommended through day 14

There is no change to the ISDH recommendations for an Individual who is NOT a known close contact to a COVID-19 case and is without symptoms. Once the individual becomes symptomatic, see the updated recommendations above.

References:

Indiana State Health Department (10/22/2020). Covid-19: When a student, faculty, or staff member can return to school. https://www.coronavirus.in.gov/files/20_Return%20to%20School_9-4-20.pdf

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (12/2/2020). Options to reduce quarantine for contacts of persons with SARS-CoV-2 infection using symptoms monitoring and diagnostic testing. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/more/scientific-brief-options-to-reduce-quarantine.html

The College of Nursing has established a grading scale to be used for all NUR courses taught in the Undergraduate Program. Grades will be assigned according to the following scale:

Students in the CON are expected to adhere to the ANA Code of Ethics. The Code of Ethics for Nurses is a guide for carrying out nursing responsibilities in a manner consistent with quality nursing care and the ethical obligations of the profession. Students are responsible for acquainting themselves and adhering to the policies outlined in the document.

Students in the CON are also expected to adhere to the PNW Civility Code as stated below:

Purdue University Northwest places a priority on student learning. We value the inherent worth and dignity of every person, thereby fostering a community of mutual respect. We believe that in order to achieve these ideals, all Purdue University Northwest students are expected, while in the role as student or representative of the university, to exhibit and practice civil behaviors, defined as behaviors that:

1. Respect faculty, staff, fellow students, guests, and all university property, policies, rules and regulations
2. Take responsibility for one’s choices and actions
3. Accept the consequences of one’s inappropriate choices and actions
4. Communicate in a professional and courteous manner in all forms and at all times, whether verbal, non-verbal, or written.

Students Rights and Responsibilities
Students have the right to a learning environment free of disruptive behaviors. Students are expected to comply with regulations regarding civility, attendance, and appropriate classroom and clinical behavior. Please refer to the Purdue University Bill of Student Rights for details.

Faculty Rights and Responsibilities
Faculty has the right and responsibility to define expected classroom behavior consistent with University policy, as well as address and manage disruptive student behavior.

Students are subject to the Purdue University Northwest Honor Code. Students are responsible for acquainting themselves and adhering to the policies outlined in the document. Students must be aware that academic dishonesty in any form may result in a failure in the course and a referral to the Dean of Students. A letter describing the incident will be placed in the student’s file. Further disciplinary action will be pursued according to the policies of the university.

The College of Nursing has a zero-tolerance policy on plagiarism. Plagiarism, a form of academic dishonesty, in any assignment or discussion, may result in a failure in the course and referral to the Dean of Students.

It is the belief of the faculty and administration of the College of Nursing that if a student has a problem with or a complaint about a nursing course, clinical laboratory, or faculty member, the student should first attempt to resolve the problem by discussing it with:

1. Academic advisor; and if no resolution
2. Faculty member involved; and if no resolution
3. Associate Dean of Undergraduate Programs, College of Nursing; if no resolution
4. Dean of the College of Nursing; if no resolution
5. Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs or Dean of Students

• All students must meet the University requirement for graduation.
• Students enrolled in the nursing curriculum must maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA
• All course prerequisites and co-requisites must be met for progression in the nursing curriculum.
• A minimum of “C” (2.0) is required in all courses in the Nursing Plan of Study
• Failure in any of the courses listed below will result in a first failure and must be repeated. In addition, a student must achieve a grade of “C” before progression in the program is allowed:
  • Nursing (NUR) courses in the major
  • Laboratory Science Courses: Biol 21300, 21400, Chem 11900, Biol. 22100.
  • English Composition Courses: Engl. 10100, 10200. 10400, 10500
• A student can repeat a required nursing course one time only.
• In circumstances in which a student is failing a course and subsequently withdraws from the course, and the student is then required to withdraw from a co-requisite or pre-requisite course, this will only count as one withdrawal.
• Two (2) withdrawals are allowed from two different nursing courses; specialty courses (NUR 28600/NUR 28700 is considered one course withdrawal).
• Withdrawals are not counted for required laboratory science or English courses
• Students must complete their coursework for graduation within the following time frames:
  • 10 semesters for the professional option
  • 6 semesters for the accelerated second degree option

Interruption in Plan of Study

Please review the Interruption in Plan of Study page for specific criteria.

Program Dismissal

Please review the Program Dismissal page for specific criteria.

Math and Medication Administration Proficiency (MMAP) Test Policy

Medication calculations, dosages, and safety are necessary competencies to ensure patient safety and are required skills for the clinical setting and the NCLEX-RN. At the beginning of each semester, all students enrolled in the following courses:

• Adult Health 1 (NUR 28201)
• Adult Health 2 (NUR 39201)
• Adult Health 3 (NUR 49301)
• Pediatrics (NUR 36102), and/or
• Maternity (31702)

must successfully complete one MMAP test prior to providing care to patients in the clinical setting. MMAP testing must be completed by 12:00 pm on Friday of the first week of each semester (see Consequences of Failure)

Expectations for MMAP Success

• NUR 49301 the passing MMAP score is 95%
• NUR 28201, NUR 39201, NUR 36102 and/or NUR 31702, the passing score is 90%.

MMAP success is achieved when a student earns a passing score on the MMAP test by 12:00 pm on Friday of the first week of each semester.

MMAP Process

• Students will take the MMAP test in the Hammond or Westville Academic Testing Center.
• Students will be informed of the testing dates and times in an announcement each semester.
• The test will be computerized.
• No notes or other resources are allowed during the test.
• Students must show their PNW IDs prior to starting the test and sign the roster in the Testing Center.
• Students must show their work for all questions on a paper documentation packet that is provided and must be returned to the testing. Students will earn a failing grade, i.e., score of “0”, if the packet is not returned to the Proctor before leaving the Testing Center. Calculators will be provided by the Testing Center.
• Students will have up to 3 attempts to pass the MMAP test by 12:00 pm on Friday of the first week of each semester.
• Two attempts cannot be made on the same day.
• It is strongly recommended that students complete their first MMAP attempt early during the open testing hours to ensure, if necessary, enough time to remediate and be successful prior to 12:00 pm on Friday of the first week of the semester.
• Students who have not completed their first attempt at the MMAP on or before Wednesday of the first week of the semester will forfeit the opportunity to have 3 attempts.
• Any student who requires a third MMAP attempt must review their previous MMAP attempts with their course faculty or a member of the MMAP team prior to taking their third MMAP test.
• If enrolled in Adult Health 3 (NUR 49301) and another clinical course, you MUST complete the Level 2 MMAP test. If you complete a Level 1 MMAP test while enrolled in NUR 49301, you will be required to re-take and pass the Level 2 MMAP test.

Consequences of Failure

• Students who have not successfully completed MMAP testing with a passing score within 3 attempts by 12:00 pm on Friday of the first week of each semester will result in an MMAP failure.
• Students who fail the MMAP test cannot care for patients in the clinical setting.
• Any clinical experience that students miss related to MMAP failure will result in an unexcused absence from clinical.
• Students who fail the MMAP test should promptly meet with their academic advisor to consider the consequences of their unexcused absences and inability to complete the clinical experience in light of the policies set forth by the Offices of the Bursar and Registrar and their clinical course.

MMAP Resources

Resources are available to prepare for the MMAP. Information about the available resources will be provided prior to testing. Content for the MMAP is introduced in Essentials of Safe Medication Administration for Nursing (NUR 27400) and reinforced in Foundations of Nursing (NUR 19202).

Questions about testing accommodations may be directed to the PNW Accessibility Center (PAC) at 219-989-2455.

Resuscitation Quality Improvement (RQI) Policy

Completion of the American Heart Association (AHA) Resuscitation Quality Improvement (RQI) program is included as a minimum passing standard. Failure to complete AHA RQI assigned quarterly cognitive modules and skills validation may result in a semester grade of Incomplete “I” or failure.

Interruption in Plan of Study

• Students who need to withdraw from nursing courses due to medical, military, or catastrophic life events should notify the advisor at the time of withdrawal for review by the Undergraduate Admission, Progression and Graduation Committee.
• Students interrupting their progression due to course withdrawal, failure or part-time study are subject to policy changes as they progress.
• Students who fail or withdraw from a NUR course are required to meet with their academic advisor and develop a written plan for academic improvement.

• The faculty reserves the right to dismiss students whose personal integrity, clinical judgment, or conduct demonstrates unfitness to continue education in the profession of nursing. Integrity and conduct will be judged according to the Code for Ethics as adopted by the American Nurses Association. In addition, undergraduate faculty of the CON may recommend dismissal from the program and referral to the Dean of Students for students who violate the Purdue University Northwest Student Honor Code and Civility Code.
• Degree-seeking students will be dismissed from the undergraduate nursing program if any of the following occur:
  • A student receives a grade of C minus or below on a combination of two required courses in Nursing, laboratory science, or English
  • A student receives a grade of C minus or below when repeating a required Nursing, required laboratory science or required English course that they previously failed.
  • A student withdraws when repeating a required Nursing course
  • A student withdraws from three (3) different nursing courses at any time while enrolled in the nursing program
  • A student has failed and withdrawn from a single nursing course
  • A student exceeds the progression time as outlined by the progression requirements
• Students wishing to appeal the decision of a course grade are encouraged to follow the grade appeals procedure outlined in the Dean of Students web page

The responsibility for assessing student achievement and assigning grades rests with the Faculty, and except for unusual circumstances, the course grade given is final. If a student has concerns or complaints about grading or clinical evaluations, he/she should discuss these concerns with the faculty member responsible for teaching the course.

If the student is not satisfied with the outcome of this discussion, he/she should bring the concerns to the Undergraduate Program Coordinator or Associate Dean. If the situation is not resolved to the student’s satisfaction after discussing the concern with the Associate Dean, the student will be directed to the university’s grade appeal procedures.

Applicants who are denied admission or readmission after dismissal in the Undergraduate Nursing Program have the right to appeal the decision. Persons who wish to appeal an admission or readmission decision should first review the admission, progression and dismissal policies in the Undergraduate Nursing Student Handbook, and if appropriate, write a letter to the Admission, Progression and Graduation Committee explaining the specific reasons that they believe warrants the Committee to overturn the decision.

The appeal letter should be submitted to the academic advisor or Chair of the Committee within 30 days of the date on the notification of non-admission. The appeal, along with applicants’ academic transcripts, will be reviewed at the next scheduled Undergraduate Admission, Progression and Graduation Committee meeting. Applicants will be notified in writing the results of the Committee’s decision within 15 days of the committee meeting.

If the decision to deny admission or readmission is upheld by the Committee, applicants may submit a written appeal to the Dean of the College of Nursing. If applicants are not satisfied with the outcome of the appeal to the College of Nursing Dean, a written appeal may be sent to the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs.

If, for any reason, you decide not to enroll in the nursing classes you have signed up for during registration, please inform the Hammond campus at (219) 989-2814 or the Westville campus at (219) 785-5439.

There are frequently other students who desire another division of a clinical nursing course. Your cooperation will be greatly appreciated by the Nursing Department faculty and fellow students. If you decide to drop out of the program, please schedule an appointment with a nursing advisor to discuss your options.

For each regular semester and summer session there are three distinct registration periods: early registration, open registration, and late registration.

Early Registration

Early registration is held at announced times during the semester preceding the desired classes. Early registration enables currently enrolled students to pre-register for the forthcoming semester or summer session. New students must attend an orientation and are also assigned times during which they may pre-register. Appointments with advisors are scheduled by calling either (219) 989-2814 at the Hammond campus or (219) 785-5439 at the Westville campus, beginning approximately two weeks before the registration period.

Open Registration

Open registration occurs during the week prior to the beginning of classes each semester. It should be used primarily by those students unable to register early. In addition, those students who have already registered may process schedule adjustments (adds/drops) during open registration.

Late Registration

Late registration may be accomplished during the first week of classes. Registration during this period is subject to the availability of classes, approval of the academic advisor, and payment of a late fee.

To determine exact registration dates and times for a given semester or summer session, consult the University Calendar or the printed Schedule of Classes.

Advising and Registration Guidelines

1. Students may schedule advising appointments by calling;
   1. either (219) 989-2814 at the Hammond campus between the hours of 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday and 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday
   2. (219)785-5439 at the Westville campus between the hours of 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.
2. Students who have advising questions or academic concerns may make appointments with an advisor during the scheduled advising hours. Appointments are necessary to best accommodate student needs.
3. If you are unable to keep your advising appointment, please call.
4. You may wish to contact the Undergraduate Advisor by email if you have questions that do not require an appointment. The advisor’s email address is located under Current Undergraduate Student Information page on the Nursing Website.
5. Whenever you are meeting with an advisor to discuss classes during your pre-registration advising appointment, we expect you to come prepared with a tentative schedule of desired courses. Please consult the catalog for information on course pre- and co-requisites. In addition, computers are available throughout the university for students to access course availability.
6. Due to the complexity of finalizing clinical placements, students may not know their specific hospital assignment at the time of registration.
7. Students who are “out-of-sequence” (For example, those who have not successfully passed a course, or withdrawn from a scheduled course, or completing an incomplete grade) will be assigned a clinical placement on a “space available” basis. These students’ schedules are subject to change.
8. As much as the College of Nursing would like to honor students’ requests concerning desirable locations, child care and work commitments, the College is unable to change clinical division locations or time schedules. If you have any concerns, please speak with your advisor.

Registration Procedures

1. Students register according to current nursing semester classification status.
2. Appointments for early, pre-registration advising are provided for all currently enrolled nursing students. Specific dates for pre-registration advising will be posted on the Announcement site in Vista/Blackboard’s “Advisor Corner”. Students may schedule appointments by phone or in person.
3. The advisor will register all nursing students in NUR classes, in-semester sequence of their program, during regular registration. It is the responsibility of the student to register for any non-nursing classes they wish to take in a given semester. All students coded as classification 1, by the Registrar’s office, will be required to register with the advisor. Classification 1 students will not be able to register for non-nursing classes online until they are coded as Classification 2 students. Students are coded as classification 2 when they have completed at least 16 credit hours of coursework.
4. Nursing courses are scheduled to meet the varied needs of our students while complying with the policies of the University and the clinical agencies. As a result, nursing courses may be scheduled with both day and evening divisions when possible. Nursing classes are scheduled by semester. Even with these scheduling strategies, it is not possible to accommodate every student’s schedule. Your comments and suggestions for creative scheduling of classes are appreciated.
5. During your first initial advising appointment, the nursing advisor will also review your transcripts and develop a tentative plan of study. If you do not have an assigned PIN number, you may need to request an alternative PIN number from your advisor.
6. Drop/Add cards are used after a student has been registered and wishes to change a closed section with another student. Both students must fill out separate cards and provide the cards to the advisor for approval. In addition, drop/add cards are used when a student is withdrawing from a course that is in progress during the semester. The student must get the advisor’s signature before taking the card to the Registrar’s office to complete the withdrawal process.
7. The course fees must be paid in accordance with University policy. An application for extension of payment may be obtained at the Bursar’s office. Students who do not pay tuition and fees by the deadline or who do not make arrangements for late payment, at the Bursar’s Office, will have their registered course canceled by the Registrar due to non-payment. The student must see a nursing advisor again to reregister for courses. There is no guarantee that the student will be able to enroll in the same courses or clinical sections that semester.

The Hammond Campus:

1. The Simulation Center is located in NILS BioScience Building 112 and is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
2. The Nursing Assessment Lab is located in NILS BioScience Building 123 and availability is based on nursing programs, needs, and requirements per semester.
3. The Testing Center is located in SULB 318/348 and offers an array of testing services.
4. Study rooms are available on the first floor of the NILS Bioscience Building. No reservation is required.

The Westville Campus:

1. The Nursing Resource Center (NRC) is located in Tech 342/394.
2. The Nursing Simulation Center (NSC) is located in Tech 392.
3. The Sim De-Briefing Room is located in Tech 359.
4. The Testing Center is located in Tech 265.

Purpose: To validate the academically accepted undergraduate student’s ability to meet cognitive, affective, and psychomotor requirements of the curriculum with or without academic accommodations and/or auxiliary aids and services, consistent with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, as amended, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Preamble: The Purdue University Northwest College of Nursing will make appropriate academic accommodations to facilitate enrollment and participation of qualified individuals with temporary or permanent disabilities. The College has established Essential Abilities Standards in an effort to provide a framework to balance several competing interests:

1. The rights of applicants and students
2. The safety of students, their co-workers and patients
3. The significant clinical component of the College curricula
4. The requirements imposed by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), the Baccalaureate Essentials, and by clinical agency agreements allowing the College to place students in various healthcare organizations for clinical education
5. The conditions for licensure of College graduates

These competing interests and the nature of nursing educational activities may prevent some prospective students with disabilities and students with disabilities from qualifying for enrollment or continued enrollment and may limit access to the academic program of the College of Nursing.

Scope: This policy applies to all prospective and current undergraduates in the College of Nursing.

Policy: Full acceptance in the College of Nursing is two-tiered and based on two independent processes:

1. Academic acceptance based on established criteria and review of application
2. Receipt and approval of the “Essential Abilities signature page”

Current students must continue to meet these Essential Abilities Standards throughout the program. Students who are no longer able to meet the Standards MUST notify their academic advisor immediately or face dismissal from the nursing program. If a student’s inability to satisfy Essential Abilities Standards is of a temporary nature, every reasonable effort will be made to rearrange the student’s schedule in such a way as to provide the opportunity for satisfactory completion of the curriculum. In some cases, this may require students to extend their plans of study.

Procedure:

1. Initial verification
   1. Admitted students will be asked to complete, sign and date the Essential Abilities Standards nursing student acknowledgment form
   2. Students who feel that they may have difficulty meeting the Essential Abilities Standards are encouraged to visit the PNW Accessibility Center (PAC), Office of Dean of Students to be evaluated for appropriate accommodations
   3. Students, after meeting with PAC, for whom there is no clear decision point about the ability to meet the Essential Abilities Standards, will meet with the College of Nursing Undergraduate Admission, Progression, and Graduation Committee.
2. Yearly verification
   1. Current students must continue to meet these Essential Abilities Standards throughout the program. Students who are no longer able to meet the standards MUST notify their academic advisor immediately or face dismissal from the nursing program.
3. Episodic verification
   1. If a student is injured, becomes ill, or encounters any situation that changes her/his ability to meet the Essential Abilities Standards, the College of Nursing may request healthcare provider verification of the student’s continued ability to meet the Standards.
   2. Health care providers can use the “Essential Abilities Standards” form to verify students can meet the Essential Abilities Standards.
   3. The student will return the health care provider completed and signed form to the College of Nursing Student office.

Disputing the Decision

A continuing student may appeal, in writing, the decision to the Dean of the College of Nursing with ten (10) working days from the student’s receipt of notice of the decision. The decision of the Dean on appeal shall be final.

Misrepresentation

Any identified misrepresentation, falsification, or failure to disclose information by the student may exclude her/him from continued clinical or classroom participation, or immediate dismissal.

Please refer to these descriptors in completing the Essential Abilities Standards form.

1. Essential physical/neurological functions: Nursing students must be able to accurately observe close at hand and at a distance to learn skills and to gather data. Students must possess functional use of the senses that permit such observation.

1. Essental motor skills: Nursing students must have sufficient motor capacities and mobility to execute the various tasks and physical maneuvers that are required within each program. Candidates must be able to display motor function sufficient to fulfill the professional roles toward which each program educates.

1. Essential communication skills: Nursing students must be able to communicate effectively and efficiently. Students must be able to process and comprehend written and verbal material.

1. Essential judgment skills: Nursing students must exercise good judgment and promptly complete all responsibilities required of each program. They must develop mature, sensitive, and effective professional relationships with others. They must be able to tolerate taxing workloads, and function effectively under stress. They must be able to adapt to changing environments, display flexibility and function in the face of uncertainties and ambiguities. Concern for others, interpersonal competence and motivations are requisite for all programs.

1. Essential intellectual and cognitive skills: Nursing students must be able to measure, calculate, reason, analyze, synthesize, integrate, remember and apply, and evaluate information. Creative problem-solving and clinical reasoning require all of these intellectual abilities. In addition, many candidates must be able to comprehend three dimensional relationships and understand the spatial relationship of structure.

1. Essential emotional coping skills: Nursing students must have the emotional health to fully use their intellectual ability, exercise good judgment and complete all responsibilities requisite to the delivery of patient care. Students must be able to develop mature, sensitive and effective relationships with patients and colleagues and be adaptable, flexible and able to function the the face of uncertainty.

Supporting Documents:

• American Association of Colleges of Nursing (2006). The essentials of doctoral education for advanced nursing Washington, DC: Author.
• American Association of Colleges of Nursing (2008). The essentials of baccalaureate education for professional nursing practice. Washington, DC:
• American Association of Colleges of Nursing (1996). The essentials of master’s education for advanced practice nursing. Washington, DC:
• University of Texas School of Nursing at Galveston (2002). Essential functions of the baccalaureate nursing
• Wendt, (2007). Report of findings from the 2006 RN post entry-level practice analysis. Chicago, IL: National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Inc.
• Wendt, , & Eich, M. (2007). Report of findings from the 2006-2007 RN continuous practice analysis. Chicago, IL: National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Inc.
• Yocom, J. (1996). Validation study: Functional abilities essential for nursing practice. Chicago, IL: National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Inc.

03/05/2016
04/07/2017

1. Clinical laboratory experiences are designed to provide students with the opportunity to apply nursing skills. The Undergraduate Nursing Program contracts with clinical agencies to fulfill these experiences in various Northwest Indiana and the Chicago area. A student will be assigned by a College of Nursing advisor to any of the above clinical agencies to fulfill their clinical obligations. The College of Nursing is unable to entertain requests for specific clinical agencies. Each agency offers our students rich clinical experiences.
2. Registration for clinical laboratory courses occurs during early registration according to nursing classification status and required prerequisites.
3. Students may not register for more than one clinical in one day. If an evening clinical is scheduled, the student may not register for a day clinical on the next day.
4. Students are responsible for providing their own transportation to clinical laboratory experiences for both the clinical preparation time and the actual lab day.
5. Preparation for the clinical may include a visit to the assigned agency the night before to review the patient record. Students are responsible for building this time into their schedule in order to complete this clinical preparation.
6. Students must respect the privacy of each patient they provide nursing care for and must keep all information about patients and families confidential. You may not screen capture any part of the patient record.

Clinical/Simulation/Lab Attendance Policy:

• Mandatory attendance is required for all clinical practicums. If absence is unavoidable, you assume responsibility for contacting your clinical instructor to plan make-up work.
• Students are expected to be ON TIME for a clinical/SIM/lab. This means that the students are in the designated meeting place prepared to receive assignments from the instructor at the scheduled time. Tardiness will not be tolerated. One tardy will result in a verbal warning. A second tardy will result in a clinical absence. Tardiness is defined as 10 minutes late to clinical or SIM.
• A maximum of one missed clinical day may be made up per course. If you miss more than one clinical day, you will not meet course objectives. Clinical makeup will be assigned by the clinical instructor and me to meet learning objectives.
• No call/ No show to clinical constitutes a failure. This is defined as when you do not attend clinical or simulation lab and fail to contact your clinical instructor via cell phone, text message, or email prior to the end of the clinical day. Absence as a result of bereavement and/or military service will be handled according to:

• GAP Policy
• Military Service Excusal Policy

In order to honor the contractual agreements of Purdue University Northwest with the affiliating agencies utilized for clinical experiences, students must provide evidence of proof of personal health insurance and professional liability insurance.

In addition, the student is responsible to read and sign the Communicable Disease Exposure Policy, Essential Abilities Skill Verification Form, Honor and Civility Code Affirmation and Acknowledgement of UG Program Policies.

Any student who does not maintain the ongoing required clinical documents by the due date will not be eligible to attend practicum courses and may be administratively withdrawn from the practicum course and/or any co-requisites.

The student is responsible for completing all clinical health requirement documentation and uploading into CastleBranch or other approved documentation platform chosen by the facility.

Step 1: Summer preceding NUR 19202

Beginning the summer preceding NUR 19202 Foundations of Nursing, the following documentation is required by July 1^st:

• TB (two-step), CPR, OSHA, Drug screen, Background check, & HIPAA
• Vaccines (TDaP, Polio, and COVID) & titers (MMR, Varicella, Hep B), and other vaccines as added/appropriate

Step 2: Semesters following NUR 19202

In the semesters following NUR 19202, students registered for a course with a clinical component must complete and upload the following health requirements by July 1^st:

• TB, CPR, OSHA, Drug screen, Background check

Courses with a clinical component include:

• NUR 19202 Foundations of Nursing
• NUR 28201 Adult Health 1
• NUR 28700 Mental Health Nursing Practicum
• NUR 39201 Adult Health 2
• NUR 31702 Nursing Care of Women through the Lifespan
• NUR 36102 Pediatric Nursing
• NUR 48602 Community Health Nursing
• NUR 49301 Adult Health 3

Students are responsible to complete yearly clinical health documents between May 10^th and July 1^st of each year. Any clinical health document expiring after July 1^st will not be accepted. All uploaded documents must be valid for the entire upcoming Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters.

Step 3: Incomplete health documents

On July 15^th of each year, a student with incomplete clinical health documents or a student with any documents that expired after July 1^st will be removed from all clinical courses.

Flu vaccine documentation is due annually by October 15^th. On October 31^st, students who have not provided evidence of having received the flu vaccine or Attestation documentation will be removed from any course with a clinical component. Please see the “Students Removed from any Courses with a Clinical Component” section. 

Step 4: Students Removed from any Courses with a Clinical Component

Students removed from a course due to expired documents may re-enroll in the course after all documents have been uploaded and verified. The student will need to meet with their Academic Advisor to re-enroll in the course.

Students removed from a course due to expired documents will not be guaranteed clinical placement when they re-enroll. If clinical placement is not available, the student may be delayed in their progression and graduation.

Students re-enrolling in a clinical course must enroll in the same clinical course and section (if available) from which they were removed.

Being removed from a clinical course may affect full-time status, scholarship, and financial aid. The student must contact the Financial Aid department and the Academic Advisors regarding their intent to re-enroll in classes.

Step 5: Facility-specific Orientation Documents

Some hospitals and facilities may have specific orientation and/or health requirement documentation which must be completed and uploaded to CastleBranch Bridges or other approved documentation platform chosen by the facility.

Students are required to complete and upload all facility-specific documents to CastleBranch Bridges (or another documentation platform) two (2) weeks prior to the first day of classes (see the PNW Academic Calendar prepared by the Registrar for the semester start dates). If a facility requests a different completion date for documentation, the date requested by the facility will take precedence.

A student with incomplete facility-specific orientation documents will be removed from the clinical course on the first day of classes. If a student is removed from the clinical course, refer to “Students Removed from any Courses with a Clinical Component”.

In situations where a clinical site is assigned after the due date, a 48 – 72-hour turnaround for facility-specific documents might be expected.

Step 6: Attestation

Students requesting an attestation for a health requirement must email the Clinical Placement Coordinator (hill416@pnw.edu) with the completed Attestation form unless otherwise instructed. Attestation due dates correspond with the facility-specific due dates: two weeks prior to the first day of classes.

A complete and updated list of requirements will be maintained in CastleBranch. Please see the student handbook for additional information regarding access to CastleBranch.

Health Requirement and Documentation

All practice requirements based on The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 2011 Report on Immunization of Health Care Personnel: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).

1. Students in the College of Nursing must wear the following:
   • In the Hospital Setting
     The uniform for clinical experiences in a hospital setting consists of a black scrub pants and a black scrub top. Female students may also wear a black uniform dress. The Purdue Northwest logo is to be embroidered to the left front of the lab coat and scrub top or dress. Approved vendors for the embroidery can be located by contacting the nursing office. The Purdue University Northwest Student Identification photo badge must be displayed as part of the uniform. White or black shoes (toes and heels must be covered) and white or black socks complete the uniform.
   • Proper attire when representing PNW CON in the Community/Public/ Outpatient Setting, or when selecting a patient at the practicum agency
     For clinical experiences in out-patient clinics and other community settings, the uniform consists of business/casual attire with dress slacks/skirt and shirt/blouse with ample skin coverage and white lab coat. Jeans are not to be worn. Low heeled, close-toed shoes are required. The Purdue University Northwest Student Identification photo badge must be displayed as part of the uniform.
   • In the Home Health Setting
     For clinical experiences in home health agencies, the uniform consists of business/casual attire with dress slacks/skirt in a black or navy blue and shirt/blouse with ample skin coverage and white lab coat. Low heeled, close-toed shoes in a dark color are required. Your clinical instructor will inform you if there are any additional specific uniform requirements prior to the lab experience.
2. Students should keep in mind that uniforms should fit well, be clean and wrinkle-free, and kept in good repair.
3. Additional uniform accessories include bandage scissors, penlight, watch with a second hand, blood pressure cuff and stethoscope which can be purchased at any store of their choice.
4. Additional agency dress codes must be followed including wearing of hospital ID badge.
5. In accordance with the majority of our institutional affiliations; no nasal/facial (eyebrow, lip, nasal, tongue, etc.) ornaments may be worn in the practicum. In addition, tattoos must be covered. Jewelry permitted includes a ring, watch, and one earring in each ear that may not hang more than one inch below the earlobe. Stretched ear lobe plugs are permitted and should be solid white, black, or neutral color and made of rubber material. Fingernails are to be clean, well maintained, and at a length that does not exceed the tip of the finger. No artificial or acrylic nails are permitted. Hair should be clean, neat and if longer than shoulder length should be pulled back and off the shoulders. Additional uniform requirements may be implemented due to special clinical arrangements.

The purpose of this policy is to notify students of the Purdue University Northwest requirement that all students in the College who are enrolled in a clinical course submit to a drug screen as outlined in this policy and test negative before engaging in clinical activity associated with a College of Nursing Program.

The University’s Alcohol-and-Drug-Free Campus Workplace Policy prohibits the unauthorized use, possession, sale, conveyance, distribution, and manufacture of controlled substances, as well as being under the influence of legally prescribed drugs that prevent an individual from performing the essential functions of his or her job or where the individual poses a direct threat while using those drugs. Clinical agencies affiliated with the University also have drug and alcohol policies and are requiring that nursing students comply with their drug testing policies in a similar manner to their employees. Safety in the delivery of care to patient/client populations is the basis for drug testing. Clinical sites have the right to refuse any student for clinical placement based on concerns about that student’s ability to deliver safe practice.

It is the policy of Purdue University Northwest to comply with federal and state laws and regulations dealing with the usage and detection of drugs. This policy is subject to change at the sole discretion of the University and is meant to supplement other relevant University policies, including but not limited to, the Alcohol- and Drug-Free Campus and Workplace Policy, Executive Memorandum C-44. This policy is in addition to any drug and alcohol testing policies and procedures at the clinical sites, and while students are engaging in clinical activities at hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, or other facilities on behalf of the College, the drug and alcohol testing policies and procedures of the hospital, clinic, nursing home, or facility will govern.

Policy and Procedures

All nursing students will be required to submit to a drug screen at the expense of the student, and test negative for drugs at certain times in their nursing education:

• prior to participation in a clinical course in a College of Nursing Program,
• annually,
• as requested by the clinical facility

Unannounced drug testing may occur based on reasonable suspicion.

If a student’s drug screen is positive but the student provides proof that prescribed medications (a copy of the prescription or verification from the healthcare provider that they are taking medication under supervision) lead to a positive drug screen, the College of Nursing will make record of such. All positive drug tests will be reported to the clinical site in an anonymous manner. If present, prescription verifications will accompany any positive drug screens also in an anonymous manner. The clinical site policy will determine whether a student may participate in the scheduled clinical rotation.

By participating in the drug screening process, the student is authorizing release of the drug test results in accordance with this policy.

Negative Test Result

If the drug test is negative, and pending all other requisite acceptances and approvals, the student will be allowed to participate in clinical activities.

Refusal to Test

If a student fails to produce the requested sample by the date and time designated, the student will be treated as if the test result was positive.

Positive Test Result

Any student who engages in conduct prohibited by this policy, tests positive for drugs, or who does not comply with any notice, request, or procedure provided for hereunder, shall be withdrawn from all clinical courses, and may be subject to discipline, up to and including dismissal from the Program, on the basis that the student is not able to meet course objectives for classroom and/or clinical requirements. If the Student is not dismissed from the Program, the Student will not be permitted to participate in Clinical Activities until the Student undergoes the rehabilitation process set forth below. In addition, future participation in Clinical Activities is dependent on the length of time needed for the rehabilitation process and space availability as described below.

Rehabilitation

If the Student is not dismissed from the Program, the Student will be required to undergo a professional evaluation by the Counseling Center or by a mutually agreed upon independent, certified drug and alcohol counselor for evaluation and treatment at the student’s expense. The student must complete the treatment prescribed by the approved counselor at the student’s expense. Upon completion of the treatment plan, the counselor shall conduct a follow-up evaluation and issue a report to the Dean of the College of Nursing. If the counselor reports that the student successfully completed the treatment plan and is ready to engage in Clinical Activities, the student will be tested with a new drug screen at the Student’s expense. If the Drug test is positive, the Student will be dismissed from the Program. If the Drug test result is negative, the student will be eligible to enroll in clinical coursework depending on space availability and acceptance by clinical sites. Because of the time that is required to complete treatment and testing, it is possible that the Student will be delayed and need to re-work his/her plan of study with an academic counselor.

After a student has completed the required treatment plan prescribed by the certified drug and alcohol counselor, has a negative Drug screen and is participating in Clinical Activities, unannounced drug testing may occur periodically, based on reasonable suspicion, until the student graduates from the Program. The Dean of the College of Nursing will notify the student of the designated time and place for the drug screening which will be completed, at the student’s expense, on the day of notification. If a positive Drug screen occurs, or if the student fails to complete a drug test as requested or otherwise comply with this policy, the student will be dismissed from the Program.

Confidentiality

The College of Nursing and the University will take reasonable measures to ensure individual privacy under this Policy including, without limitation, keeping all Drug test results confidential to the extent possible. Drug test results will be released in accordance with this policy and applicable federal and state laws and regulations.

Grievance and Appeal Procedures

Pursuant to the University’s Bill of Student Rights, any student can seek redress for any complaints related to the application or enforcement of this Policy through applicable University grievance policies and procedures, including Program appeal procedures.

Access to Records

The College of Nursing and the University will maintain records relating to this policy as required by law. Upon written request to the Dean of the College of Nursing, a student will be provided copies of records pertaining to his or her Drug tests. The University may charge the student a reasonable fee for copying these records.

Questions

Questions about this policy should be directed to the Dean of the College of Nursing.

With the enactment of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), the idea that patients have the right to privacy and confidentiality became more than just an ethical obligation of health care providers, students and health care organizations; it is the law. The right to privacy is essential to patients and families. Under no circumstances should any student ever release or remove confidential patient information from the practicum setting or discuss it with anyone unless it is needed for treatment of the patient.

Each clinical agency has strict guidelines regarding patient information, including computer access, security, documentation, and patient confidentiality. These specific guidelines are available for each agency, and several ask students to sign a confidentiality statement.

Violations of the Guidelines

Violation of these guidelines can result in disciplinary action by the agency, the assignment of a failing grade for a nursing course, and/or dismissal from the course and/or nursing program. The following guidelines in general reflect expectations of all students in all agencies.

1. Patient medical records are not to be removed from their location.
2. Students granted access to patient medical records are accountable at all times for the protection of the record and its contents while in their possession.
3. Sharing medical record/patient information with family, friends, and staff not directly involved in the patient’s care is prohibited.
4. Students are not allowed to remove medical records from the patient care area.
5. Reproducing by photocopying, cutting and pasting, taking a picture, or printing any part of the medical record for a student’s purpose is strictly prohibited. Data cannot be saved to any device.
6. When referring to patients in written work for schoolwork purposes, students must use patient initials only. Keep all identifying information to a minimum.
7. Any identifiable patient information should be properly destroyed before the student leaves the unit.
8. Students must follow HIPAA guidelines at all times as outlined by each clinical agency and federal regulations.
9. Professional standards expect that student nurses withhold discussing, in any format, (verbally, in writing, via social media), any patient situations and confidences outside the clinical course context. Situations may only be discussed in private, for the purpose of learning, as directed by the clinical instructor.

Rationale:

The College of Nursing recognizes that social networking websites and applications including, but not limited to, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, are an important and timely means of communication. However, students must be aware that posting any information about patients or clinical agencies attended for clinical is prohibited and may be illegal under HIPAA guidelines and subject to disciplinary actions. Violation of existing statutes and administrative regulations may expose the offender to criminal and civil liability, and the punishment for violations may include fines and imprisonment. Offenders also may be subject to adverse academic actions that may include immediate removal from the clinical setting, referral to the Dean of Students, course failure and dismissal from the College of Nursing.

Privacy and Confidentiality:

Official University communications sent by e-mail are subject to the same public information, privacy, and records retention requirements and policies as other official University communications. Also, any reference to a client, colleague, faculty, or staff nurse on any social media outlet is not appropriate (see American Nurses Association’s social media statement), including “disparaging remarks” even if the person is not identified by name. “Promptly report a breach” (per ANA) to your faculty.

Clinical & In-Class Procedure:

Please refer to the syllabus for possible course-specific guidelines. Clinical students must uphold the Social Media Policy guidelines. Individual clinical faculty members may also make additional requests regarding use of technology during clinical according to clinical agency policy.

All nursing students are required to have malpractice insurance. A blanket policy is included as a class fee and paid by the student. The coverage runs from August 1st through July 31st of the following year.

As you begin your education in Nursing at Purdue University Northwest, the College of Nursing is obliged to inform you of standards by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) which affects you as you care for patients in the clinical setting.

Bloodborne pathogens are micro-organisms in human blood that can cause disease in humans. These pathogens include, but are not limited to, the Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) which causes AIDS. As a nursing student, you will be participating in care giving activities and may be exposed to infectious diseases such as Hepatitis B, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and other infectious and/or communicable diseases. To reduce your risk of exposure, the following guidelines affect you as you engage in the practice of nursing.

1. All nursing students are expected to follow Universal Precautions to prevent contact with blood and body fluids which are considered to be potentially infective. Because nursing students may have direct contact with blood and other body fluids, the College of Nursing requires training in Universal Precautions as adopted by the Indiana State Board of Health. This training will be given during your first semester in nursing prior to caring for patients in the clinical setting.
2. All nursing students will be expected to wash their hands with soap and water after exposure to blood and after removal of contaminated gloves or other personal protective equipment.
3. Disposable latex gloves will be used by nursing students providing first-aid or medical treatment to persons with bleeding wounds.
4. Pocket masks with one-way valves or “ambu-type” resuscitators will be used when providing CPR.
5. Needles and other contaminated “sharps” will be discarded as soon as feasible in closable, puncture-resistant, leak-proof containers that are appropriately labeled.
6. Eye protection must be worn when splash of body fluids may occur.

• Student Physical Examination Summary Form (pdf)
• Policies Regarding Communicable Diseases – Potential Disease Exposure Form (pdf)
• Statement of Refusal of Hepatitis B Revaccination (pdf)
• Essential Abilities Skill Verification Form (pdf)
• Honor Civility Affirmation (pdf)
• UG Handbook Acknowledgement (pdf)
• Student Drug Testing Policy (pdf)

Student representatives are valued members of nursing department committees. Student representatives, of the Undergraduate Nursing Program, serve on the following nursing department committees:

1. Undergraduate Curriculum Committee –
   Three (3) student representatives from the baccalaureate entry program:
   • Two (2) first-degree students, one from each campus, and
   • One (1) student from the second-degree accelerated program.
2. College Curricula and Assessment Committee
   • One (1) student representative from the baccalaureate entry programs from each campus and
   • One (1) student representative from the accelerated second degree program
3. Resources and Budget Committee
   • One (1) student representative from each campus baccalaureate programs
4. Student Affairs Committee –
   Two (2) students representatives:
   • One (1) baccalaureate student from each campus plus
   • the president or chair from the student organization on each campus or their designee, ex-officio

Nominations for student representatives for these committees will be requested at the beginning of each semester. Interested students should contact the Chair of the Student Affairs Committee for additional information. Students are encouraged to participate and volunteer to serve on these committees. In the past, student representatives have made significant contributions to the College of Nursing regarding policies, procedures and curricula.

The College of Nursing Undergraduate Nursing Club sponsors social and fundraising events throughout the year. All students are welcome to participate in the Nursing Club.

The mission of the organization is:

• to participate in community activities which promote health and wellness and the profession of nursing
• to provide leadership opportunities, enhance faculty and student interactions
• to expose students to the many and varied opportunities available in the profession of nursing

Mu Omega Chapter

The Mu Omega Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau was chartered in 1992. The purposes of Sigma Theta Tau:

• Recognize superior achievement.
• Recognize the development of leadership quantities.
• Foster high professional standards.
• Encourage creative work.
• Strengthen commitment to the ideals and purposes of the profession.

Minimum Qualifications for Membership:

1. Junior or senior students enrolled in baccalaureate programs at accredited institutions of higher education
2. Completed at least 1/2 of the nursing curriculum
3. Ranked in the upper 35 percent of their graduating class
4. Achieved academic excellence (at least a 3.0 GPA)

Sigma Theta Tau Mu Omega can now be found on Facebook.

HESI RN Exit Exam

In the final semester, the non-RN undergraduate student will take an Exit HESI exam to determine readiness for the NCLEX. In addition, a formal review course is incorporated into the final semester. In order to validate readiness for NCLEX testing, all students are expected to achieve a HESI Exit score of 850 or above on either attempt of this exam. Students who score less than 900 on the first exam are required to complete additional preparation and/or a faculty supervised remediation program. Once remediation is completed, all students will retake the HESI Exit exam a second time.

The Dean of the College of Nursing will certify student readiness for the State Board of Nursing NCLEX exam once a score of 850 is achieved on either the first or second HESI Exit attempt and/or the formal review course/remediation has been completed.

If a score of 850 is not achieved on either attempt, the student must participate in an additional remediation program prior to, or planned in advance to take place after graduation. This can include, but is not limited to:

• Additional commercial review course
• Faculty approved individualized study plans
• Faculty led remediation

Students achieving a score of less than 850 on the second HESI exit following remediation and graduation as outlined above, are encouraged to continue steps toward NCLEX preparation but will have met the College of Nursing requirements for taking the NCLEX exam.

Students who are successful in NUR 48702, yet unable to graduate because of other course failures or withdrawals, must pay for and repeat the HESI exit exams as part of the final semester determination of NCLEX readiness

The College of Nursing requires that all graduating students take an NCLEX review course prior to taking their state board examination. Participating in a structured review course prepares the student for the content of the exam, addresses test anxiety, and teaches specific techniques to significantly improve a student’s probability of success.

It is the responsibility of the individual student to pay for the review course.

The student will be provided with the information for completing NCLEX registration from the College of Nursing. Upon successful graduation and fulfillment of HESI requirements, the applicant is responsible for applying, registering, and scheduling the NCLEX test, as well as paying all associated expenses.

Information regarding taking the NCLEX exam in the State of Indiana can be found at the Indiana State Board website. The application (PDF) (requires Get Adobe Acrobat Reader) must be completed in its entirety.

The US Program Code for Purdue Northwest is US48510200

If a student chooses to take the State Board Examination in any state other than Indiana, it is the applicant’s responsibility to obtain the necessary application and information. Students who elect to take the exam in another state can find information at the National Council of State Boards website.

Specific procedures and contact information for the Illinois State Board of Nursing can be found at the Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation website

The student will be provided with the information for completing the NCLEX registration process from the College of Nursing. Upon successful graduation and fulfillment of HESI requirements, the applicant is responsible for paying for the exams and registration fees, adhering to policies that are necessary for applying, registering, and scheduling for the testing.

Information regarding filling out the necessary forms to apply for the national NCLEX exam can be obtained on the National Council of State Boards website.

The US Program Code for Purdue Northwest is: US48510200.

Financial Aid consists of grants, scholarships and student loans. You must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered for grants and student loans. Award amounts and eligibility requirements vary. For further information and applications, please contact the Office of Financial Aid.

Nursing students have a variety of scholarship opportunities available. Awards and scholarships are available to qualified nursing students based on eligibility and availability of funds. Financial Aid forms (FAFSA) may be required for some scholarships.

• Purdue University Northwest – Hammond Grant and Scholarship Opportunities
• Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program

Many of the area hospitals offer Nurse Extern and Nurse Fellowship Programs for students who have successfully completed one semester or more of clinical nursing courses. Advertisement for these programs will be posted in the MyPNW portal.

Students are to refer to the Purdue University Northwest Student Handbook for explanation of University policies and student services. Policies such as grade appeal and registration can be found in this book. Students are accountable for information in this handbook.